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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith recently presented Mr Jason Roberts of Cranebrook with a NSW Government Community Service award in recognition and appreciation of his contribution to the Penrith community.

Owner of Elite Sand & Soil, Jason was introduced to NADO back in 2017, becoming one of NADO’s major supporters.

Jason actively encourages his team to attend NADO’s Friendship Days where he and his team volunteer their time to come out and cook a BBQ for 200 plus attendees, and his backing of the inclusive touch football teams has helped reduce the costs of NADO’s participants.

“Jason’s commitment to NADO and the many other organisations he works alongside is outstanding and I am pleased to acknowledge his many contributions with this award,” said Stuart Ayres.

“It’s people like Jason, the quiet achievers across Penrith that make our local community the wonderful place it is.”

Jason is a supporter of events such as the Property Central Charity Day, Nepean Cancer Foundation Relay for Live, Hogs for Homeless, Kookaburra Kids, Living Cancer Charity, Mark

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Hughes Foundation, Transplant Australia. He has also had long supporting partnerships with local sporting organisations including: St Marys Rugby League Club, Glenmore Park Leagues Club and Penrith Paceway.

Denise Heath, CEO of NADO said Jason is a remarkable man and we have been so fortunate to have him as an avid supporter of our organization.

Jason is so generous and kind hearted, I couldn’t think of a person better suited to receive this award.

“The Community Service Award is a way for the NSW Government to acknowledge inspirational locals for their achievements and selfless service across our community,” added Stuart Ayres.

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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Construction begins for new primary school

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M

ember for Mulgoa Tanya Davies visited the site of the new primary school at Mulgoa Rise Glenmore Park this week for the official sod turn to mark the beginning of the school’s construction.

The new primary school will deliver 20 learning spaces; including specialised spaces; core facilities including a school hall, library and administration building.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said she was proud to turn the first sod to mark the beginning of construction and was pleased to see the project progressing.

“The new primary school shows this government’s commitment to deliver for the longer-term needs for our local

communities in the area,” Mrs. Davies said.

“The new school has been planned to cater for population growth in the area and to allow for expansion of educational facilities as needed in the future.

“I look forward to seeing students learning in their new school.”

“I’m proud that the NSW Government is delivering this incredible resource for students across the state.”

The NSW Government is investing $7.9 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 215 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

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T

he NSW Government Savings Finder program is designed to raise awareness of the more than 70 ways to save to help people with the cost of living.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said since launching in 2017, the program had saved families around $5.8 billion, with Australian-first vouchers, rebates and initiatives designed to find savings in every aspect of daily life.

“We know how hard it is for so many families in our community, which is why we are committed to easing the cost of living for all households,” Stuart Ayres said.

“Whether you’re a family, a retired couple, a young professional or a small business owner, we want to deliver you hip pocket savings.”

Stuart Ayres said many families and businesses are unware of the various savings available, ranging from family activities to holiday vouchers.

“Our cost of living program is designed to help with everyday expenses including household energy and utilities, transport, raising children, dining, experiences and accommodation,” Stuart Ayres said.

“More than three million people have accessed the free Savings Finder tool, which has something for everyone. It can be easily found on either the Service NSW App, or the MyServiceNSW Account on the Service NSW website.”

Stuart Ayres said Savings Specialists are available in-person at Service NSW centres or via phone on 13 77 88, providing personalised assistance to find which initiatives are best suited to a family’s individual needs.

“To date, there have been more than 97,000 appointments made with Savings Specialists, saving households an average of around $770,” Stuart Ayres said.

“My message to local families is simple – do yourself a favour and give the Savings Finder program a go or book an appointment with a Savings Specialist. You could walk away with extra money in your pocket.”

The NSW Government has this week launched a campaign about the cost of living programs and it will run for four weeks across television, print, radio and social media.

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Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Boosting hip pocket savings patioman

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Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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local news

Penrith champions nature conservation

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enrith City Council is delivering a raft of conservation initiatives and events, showing residents how they can continue to play a crucial role in protecting and preserving the environment.

Council’s work is being complemented by another great program which has just been launched in the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA), giving landowners a chance to help conserve and protect wildlife on their properties.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the community’s uptake and involvement in these programs is proof that the City is committed to conservation.

“Penrith City Council is passionate about biodiversity and doing our utmost to sustain our community’s array of native flora and fauna, so it is fantastic to see we have people right here in our City who care about wildlife and vegetation,” Cr Hitchen said.

The owners of seven acreage properties have volunteered to take part in the Land for Wildlife scheme, a biodiversity initiative co-ordinated by the Community Environment Network in partnership with the NSW Government’s Office of Environment and Heritage. It is delivered at a local level by non-profit organisations and designed to support residents who are eager to learn about managing wildlife in their own backyard.

Landowners are required to have one acre of good quality bushland and have their property assessed for suitable nature conservation before being accepted into the scheme.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen

Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group president Lisa Harrold, local landowners Henry Cook, Kerry Spurrett and Scott Bailey, and Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen at the Land for Wildlife launch

visited the heritage-listed Fairlight Homestead in Mulgoa on Tuesday 5 April for Penrith’s Land for Wildlife launch. This was hosted by Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group president, Lisa Harrold, who is the approved coordinator of the Penrith LGA’s Land for Wildlife program.

During the launch, the Mayor presented volunteers with their Land for Wildlife signs and thanked the landowners for choosing to be local leaders by championing a great cause.

“I commend these landowners for taking initiative and choosing to volunteer their properties as places where bushland will become habitat and wildlife can be protected,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Penrith is unique in the way it covers a vast footprint with highdensity urban pockets through to sprawling rural estates – this gives us a rare opportunity and we need to maximise our efforts on those larger

blocks of land.

“Council has many of our own biodiversity initiatives and we are always thrilled when community members share the same eagerness to make a difference and protect a significant part of what makes our City special.”

As part of the Land for Wildlife program, landowners can apply for up to $2,000 in grant funding. This enables them to undertake various nature conservation activities, such as removing and controlling weeds, establishing new nature strips and more generally improving biodiversity.

Regentville residents Scott and Suzanne Bailey call their Factory Road property their “piece of paradise” – a private parcel of land where wombats and wallabies are welcome, where ring-tailed possums build nests in the trees, and where they have even sighted a platypus as they enjoy a

portion of the School House Creek.

The pair loves to encourage visitors in all forms and have planted small shrubs to provide nectar for the honeyeaters. In recent years, the couple added up to 500 new plants but sadly lost more than half in the latest flood event as excessive rain and water swept through the property.

“What we are now trying to do is stop the erosion,” Mr Bailey said, adding that grant funding would assist in their efforts to restore habitat on their land.

The local volunteers now plan to erect their Land for Wildlife signs at the entrance to their properties to encourage others to take part in the program.

Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group’s Lisa Harrold said she was pleased to have seven property owners on board so far, and hoped it set a precedent for the rest of the City.

“It’s really important to support landowners that are willing and ready to conserve parts of their property for wildlife and habitat,” she said.

“Although we are the regional coordinating group, we’d love to include other sectors of the Penrith LGA and we encourage residents to get involved – we hope that with seven properties up and running, we can set a benchmark to work towards each year.”

Find out more about Land for Wildlife at www.cen.org.au/projects/ land-for-wildlife.

To read more about Council’s biodiversity work, visit penrith.city/ environment. You can also sign up to the Bushcare Bulletin at penrith.city/ bushland.

Parks and community lead the list More parks and better community infrastructure and facilities are the top ideas submitted on how to improve liveability in West and South West Sydney under the WestInvest Have Your Say survey.

The NSW Government have released the results and had encouraged eligible groups in West and South West Sydney to lodge a Registration of Interest for funding before the deadline of 21 April 2022.

Treasurer Matt Kean said more than 5400 people submitted ideas to the Have Your say survey, which will help inform the assessment of projects submitted for the city-changing program.

“We launched WestInvest to help secure a brighter future for people in West and South West Sydney. Key to that is listening to what the people in that region need,” Mr Kean said.

“Residents have told us they want more green and open spaces for recreation and relaxation, better cultural facilities, cleaner waterways and much more. What’s exciting is we can deliver this through WestInvest and significantly change the face of Western Sydney.”

A review of eligible responses shows 35 per cent of people want more parks, urban and green space, followed by 24 per cent who listed enhancing community infrastructure as their priority.

Minister for Enterprise & Trade and Member for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres, said the grants will open for eight weeks from 2nd May, 2022 until 27 June, 2022 “The $1.6 billion WestInvest Community Project Grants program is driven by local people with local ideas,” Mr Ayres said.

“We have heard fantastic suggestions from the local Western Sydney community, including more walking and cycling paths, multicultural centers, museums celebrating food and culture and footbridges over cleaner rivers.”

Eligible projects must be based in one or more of 15 eligible west and southwest Sydney Local Government Areas and target one of the six focus areas: 1. Parks, urban spaces, and green space; 2. Enhancing community infrastructure such as local sporting grounds; 3. Modernising local schools; 4. Creating and enhancing arts and cultural facilities; 5. Revitalising high streets; 6. Clearing local traffic.

Eligible community groups, sports groups, nongovernment organisations, Local Aboriginal Land

Councils and more can register their interest for the funding.

Suggestions submitted during the Have Your Say survey will be shared with local councils and government agencies to help inform future planning in Western Sydney.

In addition to the $1.6 billion in grants for community projects, $400 million in noncompetitive funding will be allocated directly to each of the 15 eligible local councils. All councils will be receiving a minimum of $20 million, with additional funding available on a pro-rata basis up to a maximum of $35 million per Council, (based on population size) to secure community benefits by expediting local projects.

A further $3 billion is available to NSW Government agencies to deliver transformational projects that are ready to go and will benefit local communities.

Surveys and ideas put forward through the ‘Have your Say’ process were for consultation purposes only and do not form part of a formal application under the WestInvest Program.

To find out more about WestInvest visit www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/westinvest

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ocal first year apprentices facing financial or personal hardship will be supported with a $15,000 scholarship to undertake their trade and study through a NSW Government scholarship program.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said people can now apply for a Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship which will support 120 people to either start, change, or further their career.

“This scholarship program offers a great incentive for eligible locals to kick-start their career,” Mrs Davies said.

“Whether you need to purchase new tools, cover fuel or car maintenance, or pay for additional study, these scholarships have helped people overcome personal barriers to finish their apprenticeships and follow their trade calling.”

The NSW Government will invest $1.8 million in the program, which provides $5,000 over three years to support apprentices who demonstrate a high aptitude for vocational education and training and are committed to their on the job and formal training.

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said there were more than 107,000 people in-training across NSW, a 29 per cent increase on

Thomas Bridge

the year before.

“Apprenticeships are a critical part of ensuring NSW has a pipeline of skilled workers, but we also understand the financial limitations and challenges that arise for apprentices while completing their trade,” Mr Henskens said.

“As NSW has seen through bushfires, floods and the pandemic,

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Applications open for apprentice scholarships

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Tyler Saad

apprentices remain a vital part of the economy and make a strong contribution to local businesses and communities.”

“The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships are in addition to the 100,000 fee-free apprenticeships and 70,000 fee-free traineeships and other low-fee courses funded by the NSW Government.”

The scholarship program is named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, a passionate advocate of vocational education for more than 30 years.

Applications are open and will close Friday, 27 May 2022.

For more information and to apply visit www.education.nsw.gov.au/ skills-nsw/bert-evans-scholarships or phone 13 28 11.

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local news

Youth voice delivers water refill stations

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estern Sydney high school students are enjoying a healthier drink option and reducing their environment footprint thanks to a partnership between Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD), schools and local doctors.

Generous donations by the Mount Druitt and Hills doctors’ associations, with additional funding from each high school, allowed for the purchase, delivery, and installation of water refill stations in Chifley College Mount Druitt Campus, and Colyton, Erskine Park, Model Farms, Nepean Creative and Performing Arts, and Plumpton high schools.

The initiative was the brainchild of local high school students who participated in WSLHD’s peer-led health leadership program Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA) and Youth Voices, delivered by the Prevention Education and Research Unit (PERU).

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts high school prefect Kazia Murphy, a former SALSA peer leader, explained the students needed a new option after bubblers were closed due to the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

“The cool water is extremely beneficial in summertime as we do

Kazia Murphy, Year 12 Prefect and ex-SALSA Peer Leader at Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School.

get very hot days and it is hard to keep cool during physical education lessons,” Kazia said.

Erskine Park High School principal Brenda Quayle added: “Our schools used student voice to determine a key need for students to have access to cold drinking water for their health and wellbeing, recognising that students should never have to pay for access to fresh water.”

The new water refill stations not only encourage students to choose water as a healthy beverage but also

decrease the purchase of bottled water.

“It’s a health and environmental win for the school community,” said Dr Kean-Seng Lim, president of the Mt Druitt Medical Practitioners Association.

PERU director Professor Smita Shah thanked the local general practitioners for their generosity, as well as Brenda Quayle for negotiating and coordinating the purchase and delivery of water refill stations.

“It is heartening to see our

empowerment strategy of youth voice being actioned and supported by health and education,” Professor Shah said.

“This is a great example of the collective effort of the community towards prevention of chronic health diseases and equity, despite the challenges of COVID-19.”

SALSA is an award-winning program designed to motivate students to increase physical activity and improve diet by empowering participants to be health advocates among their peers.

PERU has run the program in western Sydney high schools for over 15 years, reaching more than 21,000 students in that time with the support of the Western Sydney Primary Health Network (WentWest).

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enrith City Council’s vision for a new industrial employment hub at 158164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains, has reached a significant milestone with the Development Application (DA) formally submitted for assessment.

The DA for the 16.29 hectare site seeks to deliver a centre for growth and innovation by subdividing the land into over 40 small-to-medium sized industrial lots, allowing businesses to locate close to home and boosting local employment opportunities.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said this project demonstrates Council’s commitment to revitalising our city and aligns with Council’s Employment Lands Strategy to support Penrith’s continued economic growth into the future.

“Council is playing a leading role to drive economic growth and productivity for our city by identifying strategic sites for employment and industrial lands, such as 158-164 Old Bathurst Road,” Cr Hitchen said.

“The proposed industrial precinct at 158-164 Old Bathurst Road will leverage this advantage, drive opportunities for Penrith and inject

An aerial view of 158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains.

an estimated $36.4 million into the local economy each year. It will also help us to achieve our employment targets by generating around 300-350 ongoing jobs in key industries such as advanced manufacturing, e-commerce and construction.

“COVID-19 has accelerated the growth of the industrial property market with increasing e-commerce requirements causing companies to look towards Western Sydney for more

space to strengthen their supply chains.

“The industrial precinct at 158-164 Old Bathurst Road is a strategic project for Council to attract investment to our city and deliver on the under supply of industrial land to support businesses to start-up or scale-up,” Cr Hitchen added.

A landscaping plan has been developed to support the subdivision of the precinct and ensure extensive greenery will be delivered, consistent

with Council’s Cooling the City strategy. Council will enhance the wetlands on site as an important ecological feature, which will also provide workers with improved public amenity.

Council purchased the site in June 2021 following the sale of the site by the previous owners, concrete pipe supplier Rocla.

The development will attract businesses eager to take advantage of the site’s proximity to the M4 Motorway, Emu Plains train station and future Western Sydney International Airport.

Emu Plains is undergoing a significant transformation with construction underway on the adjacent State Government commuter car park and the State Government’s new pedestrian bridge to the Emu Plains train station.

For information specific to the Development Application for subdivision of the site, you can view the DA proposal via Council’s online DA tracker by searching DA22/0318 at penrith.city/datracker To find out more about the 158164 Old Bathurst Road project visit the website at penrith.city/ oldbathurstroad

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Penrith’s proposed industrial employment hub

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local news New security fencing at Cambridge Gardens Public School complete

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith announced that the final ‘tools down’ has been called at Cambridge Gardens Public School, with construction of the school’s new security fencing now complete.

The $297,000 project began in late 2021, with the focus to provide security upgrades to the school.

Stuart Ayres, said the project has provided the school with CCTV cameras and a total of 562 metres of fencing and gates.

“This will improve the safety of students, staff and visitors during and after school hours, and better protect the school facilities.” Stuart Ayres said.

“I am pleased the NSW Government has delivered this important project for our students, and I look forward to seeing its benefits,” Stuart Ayres said.

As part of the department’s Security Initiatives Program, the department works closely with schools to identify effective risk mitigation strategies, tailored to the needs of the individual school.

Each financial year schools are considered for inclusion in the program, with security measures including security fencing, CCTV, automated vehicle gates, electronic access controls, alarms and key management systems.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said schools are better funded under this government than

ever before.

“We are building on our longterm commitment to improve the infrastructure at our local schools, delivering a pipeline of new and upgraded schools and also funding new roofs, security upgrades, outdoor spaces and improvements to accessibility,” Ms Mitchell said.

The project is part of the Department

of Education’s Security Initiatives Program, with funding secured as part of the 2021/22 NSW Budget.

The NSW Government is investing $7.9 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 215 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

Changed traffic conditions: M4 Motorway Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from next week at the intersection of Roper Road and Erskine Park Road with the M4 Motorway at Erskine Park.

Transport for NSW will close M4 Motorway westbound slow lane, Roper Road off ramp and Erskine Park Road to carry out drainage work, signage installation and utility adjustment during

night works.

Work will take place during night shifts from 8pm to 5am between 26 April and Friday 13 May, weather permitting. Transport for NSW will try to minimise the number of night shifts required during this period.

The speed limit will be reduced to 40 km/h around the proposed work area at these times.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

Transport for NSW thanks the community for their patience during this time.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Homicide Squad re-appeals for witnesses to fatal brawl at Royal Easter Show

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he Homicide Squad is reappealing for information as they take the lead on the investigation into the stabbing death of a teenager during an alleged brawl at the Royal Easter Show last week.

Emergency services responded to the carnival ride section about 8pm last Monday (11 April 2022), following reports of a brawl.

Officers from the Easter Show operation and Auburn Police Area Command found two boys, aged 16 and 17, suffering stab wounds, one critically injured.

Police rendered first aid until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived. The older boy died on route to hospital, while the younger boy underwent treatment for a wound to his leg.

Meanwhile, a third boy, aged 15, was arrested at the scene and charged over his alleged involvement in the brawl. It’s alleged he was there with the other two boys. He remains before the courts.

Specialist forensic officers subsequently conducted an extensive examination of the crime scene, and an investigation was commenced under Strike Force Calle.

The investigation is now being led by detectives from the Homicide Squad along with Auburn Police Area Command and South West Metropolitan Region.

As their inquiries continue, Strike Force Calle detectives are appealing to anyone who was in the carnival area at the time of the brawl and hasn’t yet spoken to police to come forward.

Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty, said investigators were working meticulously through CCTV and other vision to identify those involved in the incident.

“Strike Force Calle detectives are methodically examining hours and hours of vision, to identify and piece together the movements of all those involved in the brawl,” Det Supt Danny Doherty said.

“Of the vision we have already reviewed, we know there was a significant amount of people filming the incident, many of whom have not yet supplied the vision to police.

“In our experience, it is likely that someone – or many people – has unknowingly captured a clear shot of something of relevance to the investigation.

“We are calling on these people – and anyone who may have images or videos taken at the Easter Show around the time of the incident – to upload it to us through Crime Stoppers or drop it into a local police station.”

Det Supt Doherty added that in matters like this, investigators are often faced with a wall of silence.

“The Homicide Squad has a great deal experience in dealing with those connected to perpetrators or victims and their associates who are unwilling to assist due to either misguided loyalties or fear of retribution,” Det Supt Doherty said.

“We’ve brought people to justice in the past and we will bring those responsible for this stabbing to justice, but we need the support of the community.

“If you know something, say something. It only takes a moment to make a confidential call to Crime Stoppers; what you know could make a difference.”

Anyone with information which may assist Strike Force Calle is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

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new chapter in Sydney’s proud maritime heritage has opened with the first cruise ship sailing through the heads in more than two years, ready to lead the return of cruising in Australia. Minister for Transport and Veterans David Elliott said witnessing the Pacific Explorer return to her home port surrounded by a flotilla of boats on Sydney Harbour, and excited onlookers on the foreshore was a symbol of optimism and hope. “Today our great harbour city reclaimed its title as the gateway to Australian cruising, with Sydneysiders and boaties once again witnessing the miracle of modern shipping. Sydney Harbour has long been the jewel in the crown for pacific cruising,” Mr Elliott said. Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said tourism operators and local suppliers can look forward to rebuilding a vital industry that contributed $2.9 billion to the NSW economy in 2019-20. “The return of the first cruise ship after a two-year pause is a milestone moment for NSW which will help to turbocharge the recovery of the state’s visitor economy. The provisioning of cruise ships with locally sourced produce, and the 9,000 jobs the sector creates will also see long lasting benefits for our community,” Mr Ayres said. P&O Cruises Australia President Marguerite

Fitzgerald said it was always going to be an emotional homecoming for Pacific Explorer and her crew, and this morning was a fitting celebration for her return to Sydney. “Pacific Explorer coming through Sydney Heads after two long years was a magic moment and I am proud to say there was hardly a dry eye among our suppliers, guests and staff,” Ms Fitzgerald said. Port Authority of NSW Chief Executive, Captain Philip Holliday said the return of cruise is an important moment Port Authority has been waiting for. “Hearing our marine pilot requesting port clearance and our vessel traffic team welcoming the ship’s Captain back to Sydney Harbour was one of the sweetest radio calls I’ve heard for a long while,” Captain Holliday said.

“Preparing for the return of cruising has been a long and challenging journey during which we’ve made sure our terminals and procedures are ship-shape to safely welcome cruise passengers and crew back to NSW.” The NSW Government has led the way in planning for the safe resumption of cruising, in close partnership with officials from the Federal, Victorian and Queensland Governments and cruise industry operators.

The priority for all the parties involved with the resumption of cruising is to ensure strong safeguards are in place to mitigate the risk of COVID-19. Pacific Explorer will remain in Sydney over the coming weeks as it prepares for its first guest cruise to Brisbane departing on 31 May 2022.

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Sydney Harbour comes alive with the return of cruising

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local news

New 14-story tower opens at Nepean Hospital

By Noel Rowsell

W

estern S y d n e y communities will benefit from a new neonatal intensive care unit, an expanded emergency department and an additional 200-plus inpatient beds under the $1 billion Nepean Hospital redevelopment, with construction of the first hospital tower now complete.

Premier Dominic Perrottet, Minister for Health Brad Hazzard, Member for Penrith and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres, toured the new 14-storey clinical services building on Wednesday. It is now Penrith’s tallest landmark and will open in stages from May, 2022.

“This major redevelopment of Nepean Hospital will transform services in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, providing the best healthcare in the nation for our people now and into the future,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Our record investments in our health system also ensure our frontline workers have access to world class facilities and services to provide that care.”

Mr Hazzard said the 100 metre high tower is one of the tallest hospital buildings in Australia and also includes 18 birthing suites, 17 new operating theatres and a helipad.

“The NSW Government is delivering a major expansion and upgrade of health services at Nepean Hospital, to meet the healthcare needs of the Western Sydney and Blue Mountains communities for decades to come,” Mr Hazzard said.

“This Nepean Hospital redevelopment is one of more than 170 health capital works projects the NSW Government has delivered since 2011, with a further 110 projects underway.”

With construction of the clinical services building under Stage 1 of the redevelopment now complete, operational commissioning is underway before the building opens to patients and staff.

Mr Ayres said the Nepean Hospital redevelopment was a massive boost for the greater Penrith community.

It would significantly improve the healthcare environment for patients and carers, along with the highly regarded medical and support staff.

“This once in a generation investment in our local hospital will not only deliver enhanced health services today but will also provide the capacity to grow as our community grows,” Mr Ayres said.

“Beyond the substantial healthcare benefits, it’s also been a huge win for our local economy. More than 3,700 contractors and subcontractors worked on Stage 1 of the Nepean redevelopment during its construction phase, with almost three quarters of the on-site workforce from Western Sydney.

“We expect thousands more jobs will be on offer during construction of

the $450 million Stage 2 development, which is set to begin this year.”

Nepean Redevelopment Stage 2 will include a new adult intensive care unit, in-centre renal dialysis unit, medical imaging and nuclear medicine services, cardiology services, more beds, community health services and a front-of-house for the hospital.

As part of the NSW Government’s Stage 2 fast-track funding announcement in October 2020, cardiology services and an additional in-patient floor have both been incorporated into the Stage 1 tower and they will also be opening this year.

The project is part of the NSW Government’s record $10.8 billion investment in health infrastructure over the coming four years.

local news

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he NSW Government have announced close contacts of a confirmed COVID-19 case will not be required to isolate, provided they comply with NSW Health guidelines.

There are no changes for positive cases: the seven-day isolation requirement remains in place for anyone who has recorded a positive RAT or PCR result.

From 6pm on Friday 22 April, close contacts (defined as a household contact or an individual deemed by NSW Health to be a close contact) will not have to isolate, as long as they have no symptoms and comply with the following guidelines: • Do not visit aged care, hospitals, disability, and correctional facilities unless a special exemption applies; • Wear a face mask in indoor settings outside the home; • Undertake daily RAT tests before coming into close contact with people outside their household, where practicable; • Avoid contact with elderly and immunocompromised persons where possible; • Work from home where practical; • Notify their employer/educational facility that they are a close contact, and that they are not required to isolate as long as they comply with the above.

Close contacts will need to comply with the above guidelines for 7 days from the time a person in their household tested positive for COVID-19.

Public health orders requiring key workforces to be vaccinated will be lifted, with vaccine requirements to be based on risk assessments under occupational work health and safety, in line with other jurisdictions. Orders requiring aged care and disability workers to be vaccinated will remain in force.

Consultation will take place with relevant stakeholders with details to be finalised in coming weeks.

These changes will mean the critical

worker exemptions from isolation rules will no longer be required.

However, close contacts will still need to comply with any COVID-19 safety measures that have been put in place in their workplace by employers.

From 30 April 2022, unvaccinated international returning travellers will not be required to undertake hotel quarantine. The current requirements for fully vaccinated travellers, including taking a Rapid Antigen Test within 24 hours of arrival and complying with the NSW Health guidelines, will be extended to unvaccinated travellers.

Public transport capacity caps will also be lifted with the requirement to wear masks on public transport, planes, and indoors at airports and cruise terminals to remain in place.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the lifting of isolation rules for close contacts were common sense changes that would allow us to continue to move forward out of the pandemic.

“These isolation rules have been necessary but thanks to our strong

vaccination rates, we can make the changes announced today,” Mr Perrottet said.

“This will provide immediate relief for so many workforces and businesses who have been hit hard by labour shortages as people are forced to isolate because they are a household contact.

“As the pandemic has evolved so has our response and this is another example where we have been able to make necessary changes safely and in a measured way.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said individuals still needed to exercise caution to protect vulnerable members of the community.

“We are still in a pandemic and the basic rules of hand hygiene, wearing a mask when you cannot socially distance and staying at home if you have symptoms still apply,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Most importantly if you still have symptoms you should not visit an aged care facility, hospital or an elderly relative.”

In line with these changes the

NSW Government is also working with health officials to finalise school settings before Term 2 begins, and further information in this regard will be released in the coming days.

In preparation for winter, the NSW Government will also continue to ensure Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are available to help protect vulnerable cohorts, including people with a disability, children, and young people in out-of-home care, vulnerable CALD communities and Aboriginal communities.

These RATs will be distributed to individuals and relevant service providers through the Department of Communities and Justice’s Stronger Communities agencies.

People aged 16 years and older can receive their booster dose at three months after receiving their second dose of any of the COVID-19 vaccines.

You can book your COVID-19 vaccine or your booster shot, via www.nsw. gov.au/covid-19/vaccination/getvaccinated.

More information is available at nsw.gov.au.

More support for hospitality businesses Thousands of hospitality businesses will have an extra four months to pay their annual liquor licence fees.

Minister for Hospitality and Racing Kevin Anderson said it was important the NSW Government offer this assistance to up to 18,600 hospitality businesses which were hit hard by the pandemic.

“We recognise that COVID-19 has had a significant impact on thousands of our State’s pubs, clubs, restaurants, bars and other hospitality businesses,” Mr Anderson said.

“The extension is applicable to all liquor licensees, so we encourage businesses to take the extra time to pay if they feel it will help their bottom line.”

Mr Anderson said invoices for the annual liquor licence fees will be issued as usual this month, with the due date postponed from 30 May to 30 September.

“We want to put businesses and workers first so they can continue to be the lifeblood for local communities across the state,” Mr Anderson said.

Australian Hotels Association NSW CEO John Whelan said this extension is good news for the hospitality industry.

“Hotels have been doing it tough for more than two years now - even when hotel doors finally opened across the state, the restrictions meant venues were operating at half capacity or less until just a couple of months ago.

“Hotels in the recent flood-affected areas are now also dealing with many additional challenges as they struggle to get back on their feet. We thank the NSW Government for its support,” Mr Whelan said.

Mr Anderson said annual fees were automatically waived for most liquor licences at the start of the pandemic in 2020.

Eligible venues are still able to apply for fee waivers on financial hardship grounds.

To apply, visit: www.liquorandgaming.nsw. gov.au/operating-a-business/liquor-licences/ liquor-licence-fees/annual-liquor-licence-fees/feewaiver-application

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Update on Covid settings

13

local news

W

hile a favourite and healthy snack for people, Roxy the pug found out this week that grapes, raisins and currants are not one for our pets. As Easter draws closer and hot cross buns full of soft juicy raisins and sultanas appear on our plates, please remember to keep them high on bench tops.

Poisoning can occur in dogs following ingestion of seedless or seeded grape varieties, commercial or homegrown grapes, red or green grapes/raisins, and grape pressings from wineries. Foods containing grapes, raisins, and currants such as raisin bran cereal, trail mix, and baked goods are all potential sources of poison.

Unfortunately, there is no well-established toxic dose for any of these fruits. Dogs are more likely to become poisoned if they ingest large amounts of fruit and, there appears to be ‘individual’ sensitivity in dogs. Some dogs may develop poisoning after eating just a few grapes.

If you suspect that your pet has eaten any of these fruits, contact your veterinarian. The goal of treatment is to block absorption of the toxins and prevent or minimise damage to the kidneys. The best treatment is to decontaminate

the dog right away by inducing vomiting and administering activated charcoal. This helps to prevent absorption of the toxin from the stomach or intestines. Further treatment of intravenous fluids and medications may also be required.

The most common early symptom of grape or raisin toxicity is vomiting, which is generally seen within 24 hours following ingestion. Lack of appetite, lethargy, and possibly diarrhoea can be also seen but within 24-48 hours often acute kidney damage has already begun. As poisoning progresses, the kidneys will stop functioning as the build-up of toxins in the dog’s system can lead to poor health and death.

Keep all grapes, raisins, currants, or foods containing these fruits, out of reach of your pets.

Do not share any food that may contain grapes or raisins with your dog, and especially do not use grapes as treats for your dog. While one grape may not cause a problem for most dogs, it is a good idea to avoid this habit and risk a potential poisoning.

We are pleased to say that Roxy has made a full recovery and looking at alternative treats to grapes.

For further information regarding toxic foods for your pets, contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 0247313055.

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Grapes are not a good snack for all

15

Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

anzac TRIBUTE Women Veterans ANZAC Day Service 23 April 2022

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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OMEN Veterans Network Australia (WVNA) is pleased to celebrate, and pause to reflect on the contribution of women in defence with its ANZAC Day Service to be held in Penrith on 23 April.

Initiated as a nod of respect to defence women, current and former, the event boasts an all-female service including its catafalque party, chaplain, master of ceremony and acknowledgement of country providing recognition. To be held in partnership with the Penrith CBD Corporation, the City of Penrith

RSL sub-Branch, this symbolic ceremony was initiated to attest to the general public that the face of Defence Force Veterans also included women. Dignitaries attending include current and ex-serving defence women, politicians from Penrith and Blue Mountains, and representatives of RSL NSW, Penrith RSL Club, City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch, City of St Marys sub-Branch, and Blaxland/Glenbrook sub-Branch.

DATE: Saturday, 23 April 2022 TIME: 10.15AM for 10.30AM start VENUE: Memory Park, Penrith

anzac TRIBUTE 17

A

nzac Day, 25 April, is one of Australia’s most important national occasions. It marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

The soldiers in those forces quickly became known as Anzacs, and the pride they took in that name endures to this day.

When war broke out in 1914 Australia had been a federated nation for only 13 years, and its government was eager to establish a reputation among the nations of the world. When Britain declared war in August 1914 Australia was automatically placed on the side of the Commonwealth.

In 1915 Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula in order to open the Dardanelles to the allied navies.

The ultimate objective was to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul), the capital of the Ottoman Empire, an ally of Germany.

The Australian and New Zealand forces landed on Gallipoli on 25

Representatives of Penrith RSL Sub-branch always honour ANZAC Day. Photo: Noel Rowsell

April, meeting fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders.

What had been planned as a bold stroke to knock Turkey out of the war quickly became a stalemate, and the campaign dragged on for eight months. At the end of 1915 the allied forces were evacuated from the peninsula, with both sides having

suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. More than 8,000 Australian soldiers had died in the campaign. Gallipoli had a profound impact on Australians at home, and 25 April soon became the day on which Australians remembered the sacrifice of those who died in the war.

Although the Gallipoli campaign

failed in its military objectives, the actions of Australian and New Zealand forces during the campaign left a powerful legacy. What became known as the “Anzac legend” became an important part of the identity of both nations, shaping the ways in which they viewed both their past and their future.

Stuart Ayres Member for Penrith

“

We pay tribute to those Australians who fought for our country and our values.

Lest we forget.

”

Phone: 4722 8660 | Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. Funded using Parliamentary entitlements.

MP

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Our important ANZAC Day tradition

anzac TRIBUTE Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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The fall of Singapore Sunset on

By Steve Tolsher, a member of St Marys RSL sub-Branch

T

his year St. Marys RSL sub-branch will commemorate traditional ANZAC Day dawn service with focus on the 80th anniversary of the downfall of Singapore, and the effects of that capitulation on Australia.

Resource poor Japan, determined that the British, French and Dutch Colonial Governments were under severe pressure from its Axis partner Germany, saw a “golden opportunity” to invade and seize the resources of the Far East colonies of those countries.

In December 1941, Japanese troops, battle hardened from their war in China, invaded the Malay Peninsula. They relentlessly and ruthlessly pushed inexperienced Allied forces down the peninsula until all Allied ground forces were on Singapore Island where British High Command had determined that all Allied air and naval forces were withdrawn to prevent capture or destruction. The High Command never expected attack by land down the peninsula, and had set their defences against assumed attack via sea.

The Battle of Singapore, in which the Australians were first to engage the enemy,

was a week long battle, culminating in the surrender of Allied forces on February 15th 1942.One hundred thousand Allies, which included fifteen thousand Australians of the 8th Division AIF, were now prisoners of war.

Australian and Allied prisoners suffered for 3 years as undernourished forced labour on such infamous events as the Burma Railway, Sandakan, Changi, Bangka Island Massacre of nurses and other atrocities. Of the fifteen thousand Australians taken prisoner, seven thousand did not survive the war due to starvation, disease, neglect, torture and outright murder.

Australian Prime Minister, John Curtin, said that the Fall of Singapore was “Australia’s Dunkirk”. It also aroused fears of Australia being invaded. The fall was the catalyst for Australia’s loosening of the bonds of the British Empire, and Prime Minister Curtin’s “look to America” call as our future ally and protector. Heroic events during and after the capture also led to the creation of such legends as Sister Vivian Bullwinkel (an Australian Army Nursing Sister who was the sole survivor of the tragic Banka Island massacre in Sumatra on 16 February 1942, where twenty one of her comrades were murdered by Japanese troops) and Dr. Weary Dunlop as well as other inspirational captured leaders.

an Empire

(to be read at St Marys RSL ‘Fall of Singapore’ Ceremony)

By TOMAS (PADDY) HAMILTON

Everything was surreal, the calm before the storm With G&T at Raffles and playing bridge till dawn They swept across south- east Asia, like some rampant beast Down to Fortress Singapore, the guardian of the east The Air Force rose to meet them and faced certain defeat For it’s hard to win a “dog fight”, with aircraft ten years obsolete They thought the Repulse and Prince of Wales would stop them in their tracks But warships without air power, were certain to face the axe In terms of outright slaughter, it was the empire’s darkest day The wounded dragged from their beds and slain where they lay Even ship-wrecked nurses, found compassion out of reach Marched into the surf and gunned down on Radji Beach Seasoned commanders, had never seen the likes The pride of the empire, defeated by a foe on bikes General Percival surrendered, before the battle had reached its peak What was thought impregnable, was lost in just over a week No-one knew the terror, the captured troops would face For four hundred years, they had been the superior race The prisoners were all marched off, full of remorse and regret For the British Empire, the sun began to set.

Lest We Forget

ANZAC DAY

25 APRIL 2022

Shops 3 & 4, 398 Hamilton Road, Fairfield West, NSW | Po Box W210, Fairfield West, NSW 2165 P (02) 9604 0710 | E: Chris.Bowen.Mp@Aph.Gov.Au Authorised by Chris Bowen MP, ALP, Fairfield West.

anzac TRIBUTE Eightieth Anniversay of Bangka Island Massacre

Irene Melville Drummond, 1940

By Steve Tolsher, a member of St Marys RSL sub-Branch

O

n 14th February 1942 the evacuation vessel Vyner Brooke, carrying sick and wounded from fighting on Singapore, and 65 nurses from 2/13th Australian General Hospital was bombed and sunk off Bangka Island, east of Sumatra.

Survivors were washed up onto various island beaches, including Radji Beach. There on the 16th they attempted to surrender to the Japanese occupation troops. Males and females were separated, and then the males

V. Bullwinkel - Studio Portrait

were machine gunned. Following that, most of the 22 surviving nurses were probably raped, and then all were ordered into the water.

Realising what was to happen, Matron Irene Melville Drummond called “chin up girls, I’m proud of you and I love you all”. Then the Japanese opened fire. All except Nurse Vivian Bullwinkel died.

Nurse Bullwinkel and a British soldier surrendered some days later.

She spent three years in a POW camp before being liberated from Palembang camp. She continued

nursing and advocated for veterans throughout her life. She also attended and gave evidence at the Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal in 1947.

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Liberated nurses

19

anzac TRIBUTE Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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Our local students pay respects

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

enrith RSL sub-Branch conducted its annual Schools ANZAC Service at Penrith Paceway last week.

The weather served up a beautiful day and it was wonderful to see representatives from all the schools in the Penrith area come together to honour our veterans as well as our current serving men and women.

A beautiful ceremony attended by over 1000 students, it provided them with an opportunity to lay wreaths and reflect on the sacrifices made in the name of our great nation.

TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor

Phone 0417 365 313

“ We will remember them, today & every day.”

MARLENE

CLUB OPENS 8AM MORNING SERVICE 9AM TWO UP BEGINS 1.30PM

Bistro open all day

Cnr Woodriff and Derby Street, Penrith | Ph 02 4721 2515

www.penrithbowling.com.au

SHIPLEY Penrith City Councillor

On Anzac Day we pause to remember all those who have served our great nation and the many who never returned.

Lest We Forget 0414 540 948 marlene.shipley@penrith.city

anzac TRIBUTE

Photos courtesy of Penrith RSL Sub-branch

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

at the Schools ANZAC Service 2022

21

anzac TRIBUTE Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

22

Mike’s Pantry

The Ode

with Michael Creed

They shall grow not old, As we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, Nor the years condemn; At the going down of the sun And in the morning WE WILL REMEMBER THEM. LEST WE FORGET St Marys RSL sub-Branch Invites you and your family to join with us in commemorating

ANZAC DAY 2022

Dawn Service Monday 25th April At our Guns War Memorial adjacent to the Train in the grounds of the St Marys Diggers Club (cnr Hall Street and Mamre road)

This year, within the theme of ANZAC, our focus is The 80th Anniversary of the Fall of Singapore and the Bangka Island Massacre We suggest early arrival for parking.

The Service will commence at 5.00am, preceded by several related short video clips on the large screens provided.

After the Service, veterans (with medals) and their families are welcome in the club auditorium for breakfast.

For all others, breakfast is available for purchase at the Café.

For enquiries: 0414 557 692 Come along and participate in our Service.

ANZAC Biscuit Recipe Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats 1/2 cup sugar 1 cup plain flour 1/2 cup melted butter 1 tbls golden syrup 2 tbls boiling water 1 tsp bicarbonate soda (add a little more water if mixture is too dry)

Recipe from the Australian War Memorial.

The popular Anzac biscuit is a traditional, eggless sweet biscuit. Early recipes did not include coconut.

According to the Australian War Memorial, the following recipe (without coconut) was published in The Capricornian (Rockhampton, Queensland) on Saturday, 14th August 1926.

Method: Combine dry ingredients.

Mix golden syrup, boiling water and bicarbonate of soda until they froth.

Add melted butter.

Combine butter mixture and dry ingredients.

Drop teaspoons of mixture onto floured tray, allowing room for spreading.

Bake in a slow oven.

anzac TRIBUTE A

ustralia’s involvement in the First World War began when Britain and Germany went to war on 4 August 1914, and both Prime Minister Joseph Cook and Opposition Leader Andrew Fisher, who were in the midst of an election campaign, pledged full support for Britain. The outbreak of war was greeted in Australia, as in many other places, with great enthusiasm.

The first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s (ANMEF) landing on Rabaul on 11 September 1914. The ANMEF took possession of German New Guinea at Toma on 17 September 1914 and of the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago in October 1914. On 9 November 1914 the Royal Australian Navy made a major contribution when HMAS Sydney destroyed the German raider SMS Emden.

On 25 April 1915 members of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) landed on Gallipoli in Turkey with troops from New Zealand, Britain, and France. This began a campaign that ended with an evacuation of allied troops beginning in December 1915. The next year Australian forces fought campaigns on the Western Front and in the Middle East.

Australian troops in the Lone Pine trenches. Photo courtesy Australian War Museum Accession Number: A02022

Throughout 1916 and 1917 losses on the Western Front were heavy and gains were small. In 1918 the Australians reached the peak of their fighting performance in the battle of Hamel on 4 July.

From 8 August they then took part in a series of decisive advances until they were relieved in early October. Germany surrendered on 11 November.

The Middle East campaign began in 1916 with Australian troops taking part in the defence of the Suez Canal and the allied re-conquest of the Sinai Desert.

In the following year Australian and other allied troops advanced into Palestine and captured Gaza and Jerusalem; by 1918 they had occupied Lebanon and Syria and on 30 October 1918 Turkey sued for peace.

For Australia, the First World War remains the costliest conflict in terms of deaths and casualties.

From a population of fewer than five million, 416,809 men enlisted, of whom more than 60,000 were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner.

23 Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Landing on Gallipoli: April 25, 1915

ANZAC DAY

25 April 2022 #AnzacDay

City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch Commemorating anzac day 2022 Date: 25 April 2022 Place: Memory Park, Woodriff Street, Penrith | Arrival Time: 04.30am Silent March commences: 04.45am | Ceremony commences: 05.00am General Public most welcome

Lest we forget

Cnr Glebe Place & Richmond Road Kingswood NSW Ph: (02) 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au

TRIVIA Wednesdays 7pm POKER Thursday 6pm, Sunday 2pm FRIDAY FILL THE FRIDGE Drawn 7pm SUNDAY raffle Drawn 6.30pm HAPPY HOUR Mon – Fri 4pm-6pm, Sat 12noon-4pm, Members Only Members Draw Friday 7pm, 8pm & 9pm Sunday 6pm, 7pm & 8pm Temporary Trading Hours Monday Midday - 10pm, Tuesday Midday - 9pm, Wednesday Midday - 10pm, Thursday 10am - 11pm, Friday & Saturday 10am - Midnight, Sunday 11am - 10pm

Shamrock Grill ~ Lunchtime Specials ~ Mon–Fri 12–2.30pm

ANZAC DAY 25 April

Bistro open

for lunch and Dinner

Entertainment

Dennis Val, 1pm-5pm

TWO UP 1pm-5pm

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

friDAY 22 APRIL

Chris Vineburg

SATURDAY 23 APRIL

Franky Valentyn

from 7.30pm

SUNDAY 24 APRIL - 5PM

Blackwater

ENTERTAINMENT

Join us for another stimulating discussion in our Talks & Ideas series!

S

ince 2019 we’ve faced bushfires, floods and COVID-19. What did we learn from these challenging times? What is resilience and how do we develop it?

Join comedian and writer Bec Melrose, keynote speaker Skye Tasker, and panellists Beck Dawson, Carina Fernandes and Nathan Harrison for a lighthearted and engaging discussion about resilience and bouncing back.

Is ‘bouncing back’ is a desirable (let alone attainable!) goal for 2022 and beyond? Can we transcend the concept of resilience as more than an individual pursuit and start thinking about how we can orient to an unpredictable and uncertain future, together? Keynote speaker Skye Tasker will draw upon Australian case studies and personal experience to explore how we can collectively channel hope through adversity by drawing upon the wisdom of our youth.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER Skye Tasker - Skye Tasker is a PhD Candidate in the Institute for Culture and Society at Western Sydney University where she researches the intersection of data, technology, and ethics in adolescent health research. Her research aims to illuminate young people’s voice, perspectives, and everyday experiences in digital society during COVID-19 and beyond.

PANELLISTS Carina Fernandes - Carina is a nurse, community advocate and volunteer. She has been named by the

Australian College of Nursing (ACN) as an Emerging Nurse Leader for 2022, a program which gives practicing nurses and students the opportunity to develop leadership skills by participating in a range of mentoring, coaching and professional development activities. Carina earned a place in the prestigious program due to her academic achievements and vast experience in volunteering and community advocacy.

Beck Dawson - Beck Dawson is the Chief Resilience Officer for metropolitan Sydney, hosted by the City of Sydney Council as part of R-Cities. Known as “the person paid to worry for Sydney,” Beck champions urban resilience and systems thinking for cities. Since 2015, Beck has led the development

and implementation of the Resilient Sydney Strategy, working with governments, business, and the community to build collaboration and investment for a stronger, more connected, and more resilient city.

Nathan Harrison - Nathan Harrison is a performer, writer and game-maker. He works as a solo artist and as part of collectives Applespiel and Boho Interactive, creating theatre and games about ecology, complex systems science. Working with scientists he has created live games for the London Science Museum, Stockholm Resilience Centre and Earth Observatory Singapore.

HOST Bec Melrose - Bec Melrose is an award winning writer and comedian. After winning RAW Comedy in 2018, Bec exploded onto the comedy scene, delighting audiences with her razor sharp wit, concealing a socially conscious edge. She’s appeared at the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala, The Comedy Store, Giant Dwarf Theatre, opening for Wil Anderson or on tour with the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase.

TICKET PRICE This event is FREE with ticket registration. We invite patrons to support us through our donation portal to help us ensure the creative heart of Western Sydney keeps beating. CLICK HERE to donate.

DATE & TIME Thursday 28 April, 6.30pm VENUE Q Theatre, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Bouncing Back: Talks and Ideas

25

02 4736 4647 | THEPIONEERTAVERN.COM.AU CNR MAXWELL ST & THE NORTHERN RD, PENRITH NSW 2750

We promote the responsible service of gaming and alcohol. All our advertising and promotions are not implicitly or explicitly directed at minors, excluded persons, or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

ENTERTAINMENT

T

he award-winning team behind Grug and the Rainbow return with this interactive, charming tale of unexpected friendship, finding your place in the world and learning to mix things up a little bit.

In Mort’s village everything has its place, every day is the same and everyone likes it that way.

Mort is content living in a tree that produces molly melons for him to eat when it rains and playing with fluffy yellow balls called ‘fuzzles’. Until, one morning, Beep the robot lands in town – ‘Crash!

Boom! Bang!’

Who is this noisy stranger that has interrupted Mort’s breakfast molly melon? How will Beep find her way home?

Featuring Windmill’s trademark design, gentle storytelling, music and puppetry, Beep is a beautiful introduction to theatre, guaranteed to spark the imaginations of young audiences.

Suitable for ages 2 – 7 and their families.

Beep is on at the Joan Sutherland

MONSTER CHARITY GARAGE SALE Saturday 23rd April 53a River Rd, Emu Plains 9am - 3pm (If raining, postponed to Sunday 24th April)

Mother’s Day Gifts Homewares | Baked Goods Pre-Loved Clothing Home Crafted Items | Jewellery Performing Arts Centre on Friday 6 May and Saturday 7 May at 10am and 12pm. Duration: 35 minutes. Tickets: www.thejoan.com.au/events/beep2022/ Accessible Performance The performance on Friday 6 May at 10am will be a Relaxed Performance. It has a Sensory Guide to accompany it. Please see the ‘Accessible Performances’ on the Joan website for more information.

Zonta Club of Nepean Valley

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

See the hit puppet show live on stage

27

All funds raised to go to Zonta Clubs of Nepean Valley to support women locally and internationally

www.majoroak.com.au www.majoroak.com.au

WE’RE BACK!

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

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NEPEAN HISTORY

Gallipoli the landing

G

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

allipoli the Landing - By a Man of the Tenth. “Come on lads, have a good hot supper, there’s business doing.” So spoke No. 10 Platoon Sergeant of the 10th Australian Battalion to his men lying about in all sorts of odd corners aboard the battleship Prince of Wales in the first hour of the morning of April 25th, 1915. The ship, or her company had provided a hot stew of bully beef and the lads set to and took what proved alas to many, their last real meal together. They laugh and joke as though picnicking then a voice calls “Fall In!” ringing down the ladderway from the deck above. The boys swing on their heavy equipment, grasp their rifles and silently make their way on deck and stand in grim black masses. All lights are out and only harsh low commands break the silence. “This way, and almost blindly we grope our way to the ladder leading to the huge barge below that is already half full of silent grim men who seem to realise that at last after eight months of hard solid training in Australia, Egypt and Lemnos Island they are now to be called upon to carry out the object of it all. “Full up sir” whispers the midshipman in the barge. “Cast off the drift astern” says the ship’s officer in charge of the embarkation. Slowly we drift astern until the boat stops with a jerk and twang goes the hawser that couples the boats and barges together. Silently the boats are filled with men and silently drop astern of the big ship until all being filled, the order is given to the small steamboats and away we go racing and bounding dipping and rolling, now in a straight line, now in a half circle on through the night. The moon has just about sunk below the horizon and looking back we can see the battleships coming on slowly in our rear ready to cover our attack. All at once our pinnace gives a great start forward and away we go for land just discernible one hundred yards away on our left. Then crack-crack! Ping-ping! Zip-zip! Trenches full of rifles on the shore and surrounding hills open on us and machine-guns hidden in gullies and redoubts increase the murderous hail. Oars are splintered, boats are perforated. A sharp moan, a low gurgling cry tells of a comrade hit. Boats grounded in four or five feet of water owing to the human weight contained in them. We scramble out, struggle to the shore and rushing across the beach take cover under a low sandbank. “Here take off my pack and I’ll take off yours.” We help one another to lift the heavy water-soaked packs off”. “Hurry up, there” says our sergeant. “Fix bayonets,” Click! and the bayonets are fixed. “Forward!” and away we scramble up the hills at our front. Up, up we go, stumbling in holes and ruts and with a ringing cheer we charge the steep hill, pulling ourselves up by roots and branches of trees and at times driving our bayonets into the ground and pushing ourselves up to a foothold, until, topping the hill we found the enemy had made themselves very scarce. What had caused them to fly from a position from where they could have driven us back into the sea every time?. We instantly fired on a few scattered Turks showing in the distant. Some fell to rise no more, others fell wounded and crawling into the low bushes they sniped our lads as they went past. There were snipers in plenty, cunningly hidden in the hearts of low green shrubs. They accounted for a lot of our boys in the first few days but gradually were rooted out. Over the hill we dashed and down

into what is now called “Shrapnel Gully” and up the other hillside until on reaching the top we found that some of the lads of the 3rd Brigade had commenced to dig in. We skirted round to the plateau at the head of the gully and took up our line of defence. As soon as it was light enough we could see the guns on Gaba Tepe to our right and two batteries away on our left that opened up a murderous hail of shrapnel on our landing parties. The battleships and cruisers were continuously covering the landing of troops, broadsides going into the batteries situated in tunnels in the distant hillside.

All this while the seamen from different ships were gallantly rowing and managing the boats carrying the landing parties. Not one man that is left of the original brigade will hear a word against our gallant seamen. England may well be proud of them and all the Australians are proud to call them comrades. The front firing line was now being baptised by its first shrapnel. Machine guns situated on each front, flank and centre opened up on our front line. Thousands of bullets began to fly around and over us, sometimes barely missing. Now and then, one heard a low gurgling moan and turning saw near at hand some chum who only a few seconds before had been laughing and joking now lying gasping with his life blood soaking down into the red clay and sand. “Five rapid rounds at the scrub in front” comes the command of the subaltern. Then an order down the line “Fix bayonets!” Fatal order was it not, perhaps some officer of the enemy had shouted it? (for they say such things were done). Out flash a thousand bayonets scintillating in the sunlight like a thousand mirrors, signalling our position to the batteries away on our left and front. We put in another five rounds rapid fire at the scrub in front. Then over our line, front and rear such a hellish fire of lyddite and shrapnel that one wonders how anyone could live amidst such a hail of death-dealing lead and shell. “Ah, got me! says one lad on my left and he shakes his arms. A bullet has passed through the biceps of his left arm, missed his chest by an inch and passed through the right forearm and finally struck the lad between him and me with a bruising blow on the wrist. The man next to him started to bind up his wounds as he was bleeding freely. All the time shrapnel was hailing down on us. “Oh! comes from directly behind me and looking around I see the poor little Lieutenant of C Company has been badly wounded.

From both hips to his ankles blood is oozing through pants and puttees and he painfully drags himself to the rear. I raise him to his feet and at a very slow pace start to help him to shelter, but alas! I have only got him abut fifty yards from the firing line when again we were both peppered by shrapnel and shell. My rifle-butt was broken off to the trigger-guard and I received a smashing blow that laid my cheek on my shoulder. The last I remembered was the poor Lieutenant groaning as we both sank to the ground. When I came too I found myself in “Shrapnel Gully” with an AMC (Australian Medical Corps) man holding me down. I was still clasping my half-rifle. And so, after twelve hours hard fighting I was aboard a troopship again wounded, but I would not have missed it for all the money in the world.

Source: The original Anzac Book 1916.

We do not glorify war, but we do remember. LEST WE FORGET.

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Whilst many of the district’s leading golf players regularly use the event to fine tune their individual game, other local sporting identities also use the venue. You might see NRL superstars like Nathan Cleary, Ryan Papenhyzen, Luke Keary or MG either to practice at their own sport, cross-train or simply to let their hair down and have some fun.

The Venue Manager is Natasha Hemms, a former player on the US LPGA Tour, along with former Glenmore Heritage Valley GC Head Professional Westley Rudel.

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Big Swing Golf in action at Drummond Golf, Penrith. Photos supplied by Drummond Golf and Noel Rowsell

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SPORT

Colin Smith, Kieran Knowles, Ridwan Houston and Chris Eagleton in action at the recent Over 34/40 Masters Championships in Penrith. Photos by Noel Rowsell

By Noel Rowsell

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everal men’s teams from NSW will head north to the Gold Coast, Qld in September to compete in the Australian Masters Hockey Championships.

NSW teams are being selected at the completion

of each age group’s Masters Championships, with the latest event being the Over 34/40’s at Penrith.

Four players from the Nepean Hockey Association won selection to compete at the Australian Championships and are as follows: Over 34 Men (2) Kieran Knowles.

Over 40 (2) Men: Colin Smith, Ridwan Houston

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Shadow player (reserve): Chris Eagleton The Over 50, Over 70 and Over 75 teams were all selected earlier this year but did not include any Nepean players.

The Over 55’s will be selected in May, the Over 45’s and Over 65’s selected in June and the Over 60’s selected in July.

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Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

Local players win State selection

31

Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

32

SPORT

Knight awarded ring of honour

By Noel Rowsell

F

ormer St Marys resident and Penrith & Districts Basketball Association junior and senior representative Ben Knight has been announced as the winner of the Brydens Lawyers Sydney Kings’ Ring of Honour award for 2022.

The fan and member-voted award will be presented officially at Sunday’s massive clash at Qudos Bank Arena against the Illawarra Hawks.

The presentation will form part of the Kings’ Purple Reign game celebrations, which also includes the Starlight Celebrity Game and the welcoming back of former past Sydney Kings players to the club.

The Ring of Honour recognises players not just for their talents on the court, but for other reasons worthy of recognition consisting of a) the most entertaining; b) The most courageous; c) a great teammate; or d) those who gave back to the community.

Separate to the Sydney Kings Hall of Fame (which is the club’s most distinguished award) the Ring of Honour is an award which enables the entire Sydney basketball community to vote on the winner.

The other nominees for this year were Ben Madgen, Brad Rosen, Jason Smith, Bruce Bolden and Leon Trimmingham.

The first Ring of Honour Award was presented to Tommy Garlepp at the end of the 2020 NBL season.

Over 500 votes were received for this year’s award in favour of Knight, an NBL journeyman who had several stints with the Kings but who most notably formed an integral part of the 2004-05 championship side.

The judging panel included Daniel Kickert, Jo Healy, Matt Logue and Matt McQuade.

Ben Knight in action for the Sydney Kings - file photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

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Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

34

SPORT

Local clubs ready for Master Pennant

By Noel Rowsell

A

ll ten local golf clubs will compete in the 2022 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition, which commences on 15th May. Stonecutters Ridge, Penrith, Twin Creeks and Dunheved will all play in Division 1, Glenmore Heritage Valley in Division 2; Richmond, Leonay, Wallacia, Springwood and Windsor in Division 3.

Stonecutters Ridge are in Section 1, alongside Mona Vale, St Michaels and Kogarah; Penrith and Twin Creeks are both in Section 2, alongside Liverpool and Asquith; Dunheved is in Section 3, alongside Lynwood, Monash and Castle Hill.

Glenmore Heritage Valley is in Section 1 of Div 2, alongside Macquarie Links, Strathfield and Beverly Park.

In Division 3, Richmond and Wallacia are both in Section 2, alongside Campbelltown and Woolooware; Leonay is in Section 3, alongside Bexley, Warringah and Bankstown; Windsor and Springwood are both in Section 4, alongside Brighton Lakes and Antill Park.

Only two local clubs have home games on the opening weekend of the competition, with Stonecutters Ridge hosting St Michaels and Glenmore Heritage Valley hosting Macquarie Links.

Action from the 2021 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Local juniors perform well at Illawarra Junior Masters

By Noel Rowsell

S

everal local juniors have performed well at the 2022 JNJG Illawarra Junior Masters, which was held at Kiama GC on 11th-12th April.

Grace Lee (Glenmore Park) took out the Girls 16/17 Years title and also finished runner-up in the overall standings, 4 shots behind outright winner Ann Jang (Toukley).

11-year old Camilla Kim, who is a member of Lynwood CC but is coached at Twin Creeks CGC, played up an age group to be able to contest in the overall standings and did remarkably well, finishing tied for 12th overall and was a runaway 10shot winner in the Girls 12/13 Years age group.

Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished tied for 20th in the overall standings and tied 9th in the 14/15 Years age group.

The best of the local western Sydney boys was Kade Webber, who finished in 5th place overall and 4th in the 16/17 Years age group, whilst Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished tied 7th overall and tied for 3rd in the 14/15 Years age group.

Ryan Cadle (Stonecutters Ridge

Outstanding local juniors Grace Lee & Camilla Kim. Photos supplied by JNJG Foundation

GC) finished tied 11th overall and tied 7th in 16/17, Blake Hodges (Dunheved) finished tied 14th overall and tied 5th in 14/15 Years and Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) finished tied for 18th overall and tied 11th in

16/17 Years.

15-year old Ann Jang (Toukley) won the Girls overall title, whilst Cam Jackson (The Lakes) fired a great second round to grab victory in the Boys’ Overall results.

A total of 127 players competed in the event, including 7 from Stonecutters Ridge, 3 from Twin Creeks, 1 from Penrith, 2 from Dunheved and 2 from Glenmore Heritage Valley.

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Nepean News 22 April 2022 Issue 327OWDIG

36

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Ivan and Nathan Cleary commit to Panthers Penrith Panthers is delighted to announce that coach Ivan Cleary and cocaptain Nathan Cleary have both re-signed with the club until the end of the 2027 NRL season.

I

van Cleary will remain as head coach of the Panthers for at least the next five seasons after committing his future to the club.

The premiership-winning coach was already contracted with Panthers for the 2023 NRL season, but has extended his deal for a further four years.

Nathan Cleary will also remain in Panthers colours until at least the end of the 2027 season after he extended his contract for a further three years, having already been committed to the club for the coming two seasons.

Ivan Cleary, who is the club’s longest serving coach, has been an integral member of the Panthers since first joining Panthers in 2012 for four seasons, before returning to the club in 2019, in which he was able to lead the Panthers to premiership success last season.

Following a successful playing career spanning 11 seasons, Ivan first started coaching in the NRL in 2006, and has gone on to coach 375 first grade games, as well as being named Dally M Coach of the Year on two occasions.

Nathan Cleary extends his playing contract following 122 first grade games for the Panthers, in which he featured in two grand finals and was twice named Dally M Halfback of the Year.

The elite halfback has represented New South Wales in 10 State of Origin matches, and claimed the Clive Churchill Medal for player of the match in Penrith’s 2021 Grand Final victory.

“I couldn’t be happier, I’m really proud to lead this club and these boys,” Ivan said.

“It’s hard not to think retrospectively and nostalgically in situations like this, I was just like Nathan but a bit longer ago, I could only dream of playing one NRL game.

“Thirty years later I’m still fortunate enough to live this life. Coaching is one of those things,

as a head coach it’s not one or the other. There’s definitely times you wonder why you want to do it.

That’s the beauty of it because the good times are incredible. I love sport and being involved in teams.

“It’s my role to drive culture but it changes with the people we’ve got. The staff here as well, not only do they have expertise in their own field but they’re totally committed to teamwork. We want to become a team that’s up there with the best of them and there’s still a long way to go for us to achieve that.”

Nathan Cleary also shared his delight in resigning with the club.

“It’s pretty unbelievable, it’s hard to put into

words, it only hit me last night I was doing to do this,” Nathan said.

“It wasn’t really that hard of a decision for me …

I’m absolutely blessed to be at this club. I couldn’t picture myself anywhere else.

“I came here as a 14-year-old kid after following dad around. It’s home for me now. It means everything to me. To stay for longer now and be part of this community is really special.

“At the end of the day I’m getting paid to do something I love. All I ever wanted to do was play NRL and Penrith made that possible for me.”

Panthers Group Chairman Peter Graham shared his delight following the re-signings.

“On behalf of all at Penrith Panthers, I’d like to congratulate Ivan and Nathan on their contract extensions and say how pleased we are to have secured them both on long-term deals,” Graham said.

“As a club we’re excited to see the father-andson duo remain together at Panthers, and we’re delighted to see them re-sign on the same occasion.”

Penrith District Rugby League Football Club CEO Matt Cameron said he was overjoyed to secure the pair’s services at the club long-term.

“Where our club and the NRL team sit at the moment comes down to good governance, disciplined decision making and a great culture,” Cameron said.

“Since returning to the club, Ivan has been able to provide an environment for both players and staff to flourish. His desire to make our club a source of community pride is unquestionable.

“With respect to Nathan, he epitomises what we stand for as a development club and our built from within strategy. Having Ivan and Nathan at the club long term futureproofs the Panthers for years to come.”

panthers.com.au