Nepean News 23 July 2020

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ISSUE 282

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Rowing’s 20TH Anniversary

Australian Women’s Rowing squad members Giorgia Patten, Ciona Wilson, Jessica Morrison and Annabelle McIntyre in training on the Nepean River.

This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Hancock Prospecting National Training Centre for Women on the banks of the Nepean River is proving a huge success. Photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

enrith C i t y Council has received an offer of emergency funding from the NSW Government to improve safety along Nepean Avenue by putting temporary traffic and roadside changes in place.

Pedestrian and cyclist traffic on the Great River Walk has increased and temporary measures are needed to support the required physical distancing and keep the increased number of people on the shared pathway safe.

Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler OAM said the Great River Walk was one of the city’s most loved open spaces and the safety of those using the shared pathway was paramount.

“It has been wonderful to see so many people taking advantage of the Great River Walk over recent months,” Cr Fowler said. “I’d like to thank the NSW Government for working with us to help our residents exercise safely and within current public health guidelines.”

Council is consulting with Nepean Avenue residents on the proposed short-term solutions which include temporary flexible traffic barriers, a designated two-way pedestrian lane, speed cushions and reduced speed limits.

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Great River Walk safety improvements

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Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk

In addition, cyclists will be directed to use the roadway to ensure their safety, ‘speed cushions’ will be installed and the speed limit on Nepean Avenue will be reduced to 40km/hr for pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Council will continue its consultation with residents and users of the Great River Walk in an endeavour to develop a permanent solution to enhance the safety for both users and residents.

This information will be used to inform a review of the program where a longer-term solution for this popular feature of our City may be considered, Council will also be seeking broader community feedback as part of this review.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

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203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Sales: Sales: Journalist: Sports Editor: Journalist: Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 David Burnet 0412 448 883 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627 113 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

2020 has certainly been a roller coaster ride, and it is hard to imagine that we are not about to go hurtling towards restriction mode again.

Our “numbers” are still thankfully nothing like many other countries in the world, but it is disheartening when it seemed we all but had it contained and now here we are again.

We can blame Dan the Vic Man for dropping the ball on their hotel security, we can blame Gladys for those who scuttled across the border before it was shut and we can blame Scomo just because in some circles it has become trendy to do so. But none of the blaming will change anything.

That is up to us. Yes, US. The reality is a lot of us have dropped the ball too, and slackened off.

Social distancing is close to being non existent again in public places. When I did my shopping a few days ago, the trolley wipers were long gone, the sanitisers at the entrance were empty and people actually leaned across me to get something from the shelf I was standing in front of.

Pull up for petrol and the sanitiser at the bowser is also empty, with the paper towel roll hanging down to the ground with a gooey looking substance all over it.

When you look around, people are shaking hands, standing shoulder to shoulder and the cough into the elbow is a distant memory.

Yet, if everything goes south, all you’ll hear is “Damn you Dan. Grrrr Gladys.

Stupid Scomo.”

We need to take some responsibility here!

We do not want the virus.

We don’t want the inconvenience it brings.

We don’t want the job losses.

We don’t want to not be able to see our family and friends.

And we certainly don’t want people we love to die.

So let’s get back on track with preventing it!

Of course we need to hold our politicians to account, but as a community we really need to step up also, stop slackening off and do our bit to get this thing back under control.

It’s time to stop the finger pointing and unite as Team Australia.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

he Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP has delivered $35,000 for the Penrith High Street Lighting Upgrade which she announced as a 2019 election commitment.

“I fought to deliver this project because I know how important it is for pedestrians and local businesses to feel safe on our streets. This upgrade will deliver much needed safety lighting, to help prevent graffiti and other anti-social behaviour,” said Ms McIntosh.

Penrith CBD Corp CEO Gai Hawthorn said “We thank Melissa McIntosh MP for her assistance in helping Penrith CBD Corporation secure federal funding for sections of Station and High Street lighting upgrades. This lighting upgrade will improve our CCTV coverage and ensure a brighter safer city for our community customers and residents.”

“High Street is such a busy street and meeting and shopping place for our community, it’s part of our lifestyle. With so many people accessing

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

this street every day, it is important that we provide essential safety upgrades for the protection of our community,” said Ms McIntosh.

“The safety and wellbeing of our community is my priority, and this upgrade also provides an opportunity for our local tradies to carry out this work on High Street. This is both a safety and economic boost to our local area and this is why we’re getting on with delivering projects that benefit our community.” said Ms McIntosh.

The funding will be administered through the Community Developments Program through the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.

We are OPEN! Love to Swim, Swim for Safety, Swim for Life!

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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.

MELISSA McINTOSH MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 02 4722 0600 melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au www.melissamcintosh.com.au MelissaMcIntoshforLindsay Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Safety lighting in High Street

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Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 331 High St, Penrith NSW 2750.

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

L

ast Tuesday Wentworth Community Housing created a taskforce in their boardroom where they packed 100 bags full of goods for their tenants and clients who are the most in need during this crisis.

Wentworth is a non-profit housing company that provides affordable social housing and support services to our outer western Sydney region.

The team gave a big thanks to Waratah Group Services and WestCare Penrith for their generous donations of hygiene items and fresh

fruit and vegetables.

The deliveries brought those receiving them a lot of joy! It also gave Wentworth Community Housing a chance to keep checking in with residents to see how they are going.

“We have been making well-being phone calls to our most vulnerable tenants. We’ll once again take this opportunity to invite anyone who has been facing difficulties during this very tough time to contact their Client Service Officers. We’ll be happy to assist you in any way we can,” a spokesperson said.

They can be contacted on 4777 8000.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Wentworth’s bags of joy, packed with love

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

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local news

Are we heading back towards lockdown?

By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

i t h community transmitted cases in NSW on the increase and WA and QLD placing restrictions on NSW residents travelling to their states, many are understandably nervous that a second wave is imminent.

While not mandatory, NSW Health representatives are requesting that residents “avoid all non-essential travel, not host or attend gatherings of more than 10 people at home and consider wearing a face mask in situations where social distancing is not possible,” Meanwhile Labor is calling on the NSW Government to “update the public on the steps it is taking to prepare for a possible second wave of COVID-19, and to provide information on the state’s stockpile of PPE.” After the announcement by the Victorian Government mandating the

wearing of masks in public throughout Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire to contain the spread of COVID, NSW Shadow Minister for Health, Ryan Park said the NSW Government must ensure that adequate supplies of PPE are on hand to protect the public if necessary.

“We saw during the first wave of the pandemic that there simply wasn’t enough PPE to protect health workers in our hospitals and aged care facilities. The Government can’t allow this to happen again,” Mr Park said.

“The Government needs to be absolutely straight with the public right now. We need to know what steps have been taken to prepare for a possible second wave and to build up our stockpile of PP “I hope we never have to enforce mass usage of masks, but our communities need to be prepared for anything.”

Londonderry MP Prue Car said NSW must be hyper vigilant in preparing for a potential second wave of infections.

“We’ve already seen clusters emerge and it is incumbent on everyone to play their part to socially distance and take proper precautions,” Ms Car said.

This week has seen a couple of positive cases locally; in St Marys and Mt Druitt. Both places are frequented by the public (The Astley Centre and Westfield Mt Druitt) and have adhered to NSW Health guidelines to ensure the safety of patrons. School returning this week had some parents feeling a little anxious.

“The NSW Government has stated that their health advice dictates that it is safe for schools to remain open.

It’s imperative the NSW Government continue additional school cleaning, including cleaning during the school day, in order to keep students and staff safe,” said Ms Car, who is also the Shadow Minister for Education.

“NSW needs consistent and clear information, so it is crucial the NSW Government continues to provide daily updates and that advice and restrictions are easy to understand.”

Purple vests a welcome sight I

t’s been a tough year for everyone but a dedicated team wearing purple vests has been doing their best to help make Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District staff’s lives a little easier.

The 15 members of COVID Support Team have been visiting every corner of our District’s hospitals, services and offices helping to explain the response to COVID-19, providing clinical education support and giving wellbeing and mindful advice.

NBMLHD Education & Training Service Manager, Nicole McGreal, says the program has been so successful that staff will continue to see people in purple vests drop in for a visit long after the COVID pandemic ends.

Members of the COVID-19 Support Team outside Nepean Hospital.

“We’re forming a new Roving Support Team, still in the familiar purple vests, to provide ongoing support and feedback pathways for our staff,” says Ms McGreal.

Safety Culture Coordinator Kellie Kaczorowski says during the COVID response, the team has been listening to staff feedback and then returning, sometimes the next day, with a response.

“People really appreciate our visits – knowing someone cares and is here to listen – particularly in the early days of the COVID pandemic when things were moving fast and it was really stressful for everyone,” says Ms Kaczorowski, who frequently dons the purple vest and visits staff.

21 Lawson St, Penrith • 4731 5055 • www.atprint.com.au

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T

he Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP says the Morrison Government’s historic and unprecedented economic support for families and businesses will be extended for an additional six months.

“The Coronavirus pandemic is not over. As people in Lindsay continue to follow health advice to stop the spread and save lives, we will continue to provide targeted economic support to keep businesses in business and save livelihoods,” said Ms McIntosh.

“While some local businesses are able to operate where it’s safe to do so, others will continue to be affected and need ongoing support. Backing local businesses through these challenges will make sure they’re in a position to bounce back and stay connected with their employees.

“The JobKeeper Payment will be extended by six months to 28 March 2021 and the temporary

Melissa McIntosh MP with Prime Minister Morrison in 2019 prior to the Coronavirus pandemic

Coronavirus Supplement for those on income support will be extended until 31 December 2020 ensuring we continue to support Australians and Australian businesses through this pandemic.”

The temporary Coronavirus Supplement for those on income support will also be extended until 31 December 2020. The $550 per fortnight Supplement will continue until 24 September.

This comes alongside the Government’s $2 billion skills package which will provide hundreds of thousands of Australians access to new skills, opportunities, apprenticeships and jobs. “I want to make sure as we reopen and create jobs that our local people have opportunity through traineeships and skills development, getting ready for the jobs of the future.”

To find out more about the Australian Government’s latest economic support, go to www.treasury.gov.au/ coronavirus

Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery The NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards is an important annual event that acknowledges the significant skill, passion and valued contributions of nurses and midwives from across NSW Health.

Like many events, the format of the awards have been reinvented to ensure the best and brightest nurses and midwives in NSW are celebrated in a COVIDsafe way. The Awards will be presented in an online format on 26 November. All nurses and midwives

are encouraged to ‘attend’ online and hear about the amazing work of our peers. Check back here later for how to watch the ceremony.

Calling all patients, consumers and families/carers!

You are invited to nominate a NSW Health nurse or midwife for the Healing Heart Award. NSW Health is keen to learn about nurses and midwives who provided exceptional care or had a significant impact on your experience of health care. Nominations are quick and easy via the health.nsw.gov.au between 15 June – 27

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

JobKeeper payment and income support extended

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

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local news

Have you nominated yet?

W

e are so very lucky, we have an abundance of local volunteers putting in numerous hours for many different causes or organisations, and all for zero remuneration.

They’re the glue that keeps our community together, they’re the unsung heroes and they’re so good at quietly doing their thing that we often don’t even realise they’re doing it all just out of the goodness of their hearts.

It’s not a job. It’s a passion.

Quest Penrith would like to reward our Everyday Local Heroes.

They’d like to see them recognised for the enormous contribution they make to the success of our region and they’d like to spoil them with a night’s accommodation in one of their luxurious One Bedroom Apartments.

When Avli Greek Restaurant heard about Quest’s Penrith idea of celebrating and spoiling a volunteer each quarter, they were keen to jump on board and ensure the winner

receives a scrumptious dinner on them.

Now we need your help. We need nominations from our readers to help us find the first Quest Penrith Everday Local Hero. And we’ll be looking for one every quarter, so keep the nominations coming in!

We are looking for the selfless people who pour hours and hours of their time into helping out in sporting organisations, schools, hospitals, tourism, local organisations and charities.

To nominate someone for August, email sales.penrith@ questapartments.com.au Please include the following when emailing: Your name and contact number, the name and contact number of the person you are nominating. What is it they do and how long they’ve been doing it.

It’s that simple!

Quest Penrith, Avli and Nepean News would like to thank you for helping us celebrate a quarterly Everday Local Hero!

Equipped for emergency

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott joined Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres to officially handover the keys to four new vehicles worth $296,000 to the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) Penrith Unit.

Mr Elliott said that the new equipment forms part of the NSW SES’s $56.4 million fleet replacement program funded by the NSW Government over four years.

“NSW SES volunteers have a very special role to play in our communities and it’s the responsibility of the Government to ensure they are provided with the very best of equipment,” Mr Elliott said.

Penrith SES volunteers have received two General Purpose Vehicles and two Command Vehicles.

The $86,000 General Purpose Vehicles can carry up to five NSW SES volunteers, 240kg of rescue equipment and is kitted out with emergency warning lights and sirens as well as communications equipment. There is also an extended roof rack to carry inflated rescue raft.

The $62,000 Command Vehicle

will be used for incident management, reconnaissance and field support. It has emergency warning lights and sirens and communications systems as well as a 4.3 tonne winch and towbar.

Stuart Ayres said having a professional and well-equipped unit of local SES volunteers was critical given the flood risk facing the Nepean Valley.

“The Hawkesbury-Nepean has been hit hard by wild weather this year and we are extraordinarily grateful to have such stellar volunteers who are prepared for anything,” Stuart Ayres said.

NSW SES Deputy Metro Zone Commander Allison Flaxman said the new vehicles will increase the capability of the NSW SES Penrith Unit to support their community during emergencies.

“NSW SES volunteers use this equipment every day to prepare communities for severe weather and support those impacted by floods and storms,” Mrs Flaxman said.

The NSW SES has 9,500 volunteers who partner with communities prior to and during emergencies.

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

I

n our last edition I wrote about the Penrith Community Kitchen being in dire

need of help.

With this year being dominated by a pandemic, the Kitchen hadn’t received a donation since the beginning of the year and was totally devoid of food, clothing, volunteers and cash.

But as always, when the Penrith community sees anyone in distress they reach out to help.

Penrith RSL, Nepean Rotary, Raine & Horne Commercial, Our Community Cares, Gordon Henwood as well as members of the public were quick to offer what they could, At a time when clubs and pubs are facing very difficult times, Penrith RSL has made a mind-blowing commitment to help the Penrith Community Kitchen continue to feed our homeless and disadvantaged residents.

They are putting on Friday night Cash Housie and all money left after costs and prize money will go to Penrith Kitchen.

Cash Housie, as the name suggests will attract many locals looking for a fun night out and hopefully win a bit of cash while they’re at it.

Cash jackpots are up for the taking

Penrith RSL CEO Neel Chand looks on as the girls from Penrith Community Kitchen get ready to feed locals in need. Photo: Korena Hale

and the game can be played with either housie cards or PETs. Just $30 (for members, $35 for non) gets you 25 games and 2 jackpots! You will also receive $10 worth of free raffle tickets for the following week, so you could be filling your fridge with delicious meat cuts as well.

Kicking off on July 31 at 6pm, it will be eyes down at 7.30pm.

Penrith RSL CEO Neel Chand said he was saddened that financial woes had hit the Penrith Community Kitchen after having fed so many disadvantaged locals for so many years.

“The Kitchen plays a vital role in our community and I’m pleased that we are able to help support them,” he said.

Cathy Craig is the Coordinator of Penrith Community Kitchen and said the support is very appreciated following an incredibly tough first half of the year.

“We are overwhelmed with the local support that has flowed and we are looking forward to helping and feeding our community through the generosity of Penrith RSL and the others who’ve helped,” Cathy said.

STILL NEEDED: FOOD • Tin soups • Flour • Rice • Pasta Sauce • Oil • Margarine or butter • Any meats of poultry • Vegetables WARM CLOTHING • Beanies • Gloves • Scarves • Socks (new please) VOLUNTEERS DONATIONS Please contact Gai on 0437 506 517 if you can help.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Penrith RSL among those quick to help Penrith Kitchen

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

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local news

Carmen embraces online study with support from Afford

P

enrith local, Carmen, is progressing her skills and expanding her job opportunities through online study with support from Afford lifestyle assistants at her home if and when she needs it.

Afford (The Australian Foundation for Disability) is a leading not-for-profit disability provider that delivers meaningful and person-centred disability supports to help individuals achieve their goals for home, work and life.

Carmen is a very independent woman.

She lives in Afford’s Group Home, where she lives life on her terms and is considered by others as the home’s social butterfly. She loves chatting with her housemates, as well as staff who are there around the clock if ever she needs a hand.

This year, Carmen has set herself a new challenge. She wants to look for new job opportunities. She has always been interested in administration and receptionist roles, so she has decided to develop her skills through TAFE. She spoke with Dolphin Cove home lifestyle assistant, Reeta, about her ambitions.

They worked together to research a course that covered the topics and skills that Carmen needed to land her ideal job.

After looking through the various TAFE courses, Carmen found what she wanted.

With support from Reeta, Carmen signed up to the online course for Certificate I in Access to Work and Training and got to work.

Over the next six months of the course,

Carmen getting ready to study at home

Carmen will enhance her reading and writing skills. She will learn how to communicate effectively, and problem solve. The course will help her to set career goals and learn about tools and equipment found in the workplace.

The course involves both online study and TAFE NSW also sends out printed booklets for Carmen to complete.

In her usual style, Carmen will make a cup of tea and sit down at her computer to start her online study.

“Carmen is very focussed. She does most of the course content online by herself. If she needs us, she asks, and we go through it together,” said Reeta, Afford Lifestyle Assistant.

So far, Carmen has learned about identifying problems and applying her knowledge to find a solution. She has covered topics about CPR and more.

“I’m really enjoying the course. I want to work in an office, and I’m learning a lot about different skills I need to find a job,” said Carmen.

Afford is a registered charity and has been operating in Australia for 68 years, providing a range of disability supports to thousands of people every day.

As one of Australia’s longest-serving notfor-profit disability organisations, Afford goes above and beyond traditional service offerings to adapt to new operating environments to support individuals achieve their goals for work, home and life under the NDIS.

Peace of mind in Thornton Park Lorraine and her husband Rob loved living in their own home in Penrith – but eventually it was time to consider retirement options. While there are some important financial factors to consider when moving into a retirement village, the lifestyle benefits alone can be very enticing.

Many retirees feel the need to maintain their social connections and community spirit. A well-planned retirement village can foster community connection and help improve your overall wellbeing.

Today’s “retirement villages” offer apartment style homes that are very manageable for retirees but with larger shared community spaces. Many retirees move into villages when they are very healthy and active but want to know that as they “age in place”, they can get the care they need, when they need it. In the end, Lorraine and Rob chose the Thornton Park retirement village in Penrith because it’s in the community they

Photo: iStock

know and love and it has both in-home care and residential care available onsite.

“Retirement Living is all about the lifestyle – and it’s wonderful. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. Knowing we also have the option of aged care nearby, should we ever need it, gives me real peace of mind,” says Lorraine.

Residential aged care has its own benefits, should you need it. These can include an onsite care team who can be familiar with your care needs, assistance from trained and qualified professionals, 24/7 care, access to the medication, services and equipment you require, regular social events and scheduled activities, and having home cooked meals and no housework.

Every retiree’s situation is unique so, it’s important to consider all the options that suit your wants and meet your needs. Think about your preferences, plan for your golden years and think about your care later in life.

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

hen Qantas announced a program of events to farewell its last remaining Boeing 747 and provide Australians the opportunity to say goodbye to the much loved “Queen of the Skies” the one-hour farewell jumbo joy flight sold out in eight minutes.

But two young local men, Bradley George and Shane Hobday had the trigger fingers to get through, and last Monday they set off for the farewell flight of a lifetime.

Bradley, a Property Associate at Bespoke Realty Group in Penrith and his mate Shane from Glenmore Park have been aeroplane enthusiasts since they were kids, so the $400 price tag on the jumbo’s last harrah was a dream come true.

“We have been tracking planes since we were about 8 or 9 years old,” Bradley said. “When we came across the flight sale by accident, we were both working our phones at our seperate places to try to get the tickets.

“It was really surreal up there; to be on the last Qantas 747 commercial flight before it gets sent to the graveyard.”

While social distancing on the plane prevented them from being able to sit together at the window, there was plenty of opportunity to take photos as the jumbo flew between 15,000 and 20,000 feet around Sydney Harbour, out to Camden and down to Woolongong.

Bradley said one highlight of the experience was meeting Qantas International CEO Tino La Spino.

“He was really down to earth, which we didn’t expect!” Bradley said. “He was walking around the cabins greeting everyone.”

Bradley is a keen flyer and traveller.

He turns 21 in January and was planning to celebrate the milestone in Vegas. He’s already cancelled two other overseas trips this year due to the pandemic.

While nobody knows when it will be safe to resume overseas travel again, when it is I’m pretty sure Bradley and Shane will be first in line.

Qantas 747 Fleet Captain Owen Weaver said the 747 has a special place in the hearts of many Australians.

“The 747 has been a magnificent aircraft and it’s fitting that we

celebrate the end of five decades of history-making moments for the national carrier and aviation in Australia,” Captain Weaver said.

“Since the first 747 joined the Qantas fleet in 1971, these aircraft have operated numerous rescue flights to bring Australians home during times of crisis and provided a safe passage for many travellers taking their first international flight to or from Australia.

The flight was operated on a cost-recovery basis and profits will be donated to the HARS Aviation Museum at Albion Park (Wollongong) and the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach to support their efforts to preserve and promote the 747 legacy for future generations. Both museums have a Qantas 747 on public display.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Locals score a seat on Queen of the Skies

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local news

E

ight new recruits are ready to ‘paw-trol’ the community as the NSW Police Force welcomes its new police puppies.

The newest canine members of the force – four males and four females – form the ‘B’ litter and were born on Saturday 9 May 2020.

The boys have been named Bluey, Bonus, Bruno and Bane and the girls have been called Bailey, Bounty, Bindi and Bibi.

The Dog Unit, formed in 1932, is the largest police dog unit in Australia with more than 100 police officers, nine civilian staff and more than 100 police dogs.

The names for the puppies were chosen from within the Dog and Mounted Police Command as it is the first litter to be born since the unit merged with the Mounted Unit on Monday 24 February 2020.

Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott said the puppies, in time, would be deployed to assist police officers carry out their duties, including pursuits, and searches to locate weapons.

“These ‘B’ litter German Shepherd puppies, when fully trained, will be out on the beat standing side-byside with police as they keep the community safe,” Mr Elliott said.

“They are an incredibly important law enforcement tool and will certainly be a loyal best friend to NSW Police officers especially as the state continues to face the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Dog and Mounted Police Commander, Superintendent Peter McErlain, said the German Shepherd puppies will undergo rigorous training before they are put to work in

the community.

“Our puppies train, not just for general purposes policing, but also for drug and explosives detection, urban search and rescue as well as locating cadavers,” Supt McErlain said.

“While they are very cute now, in due course they will be a vital part of policing in assisting officers to target, disrupt and tackle crime across the state.”

Patron of the Dog Unit, Andrea Fuller, said the puppies are a welcome addition to the NSW Police Force.

“It’s always great to see another litter of police puppies who are so full of life and on their way to becoming such a valuable asset to the NSW Police Force,” Mrs Fuller said.

“I know we all in the community wish these eight puppies all the best for their upcoming training.”

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

NSW Police Force welcomes eight new police puppies

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

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local news Norwest Private urges all community members not to ignore their health

N

orwest Private Hospital is encouraging Sydney residents not to neglect their own health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Suzanne Hall, General Manager said “Australians have done an outstanding job in maintaining social distancing and dramatically reducing the spread of COVID-19, but warned that it is still vital that people seek medical advice and treatment should a health concern arise.”

“In recent months, we have observed a drop-off in the number of people presenting at our Emergency Department (ED) for treatment, a trend also noted among GPs and allied health professionals,” said Dr Laura Brown, FACEM Norwest Emergency Co-Medical Director. “Based on feedback from those patients who do present, we think that the trend is driven by two factors - either not wanting to be a burden on the health system in these unprecedented times, or having concerns about coming to hospital during the current environment.”

Dr Brown said that, while understandable, neither were reasons to ignore or postpone seeking medical attention for what may be a critical undiagnosed health issue.

“We want to reassure the Sydney Northwest community that it’s safe

Suzanne Hall, General Manager, Norwest Private Hospital

to seek medical help. All too often we see individuals present at our ED with a complaint that, had it been ignored, might have led to serious longer-term repercussions.” said Dr Brown.

Ms Hall advised that Norwest Private had taken a number of steps to protect patients, staff, doctors and visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are conducting patient screening and temperature checks on everyone who presents at our ED. We have also implemented strict social distancing protocols throughout the hospital in line with health authority advice.”

“We urge anyone who may be

medical specialist care at our hospital.”

“The ED is the frontline of our hospital and the team has been unified, resilient and professional in the challenging environment of COVID-19. As a team they have prepared, trained and have further developed processes to ensure the safety of patients, colleagues and all Jane Thornley, ED Nurse Unit Manager, who enter the ED,” Norwest Private Hospital said Ms Hall.

Norwest ED nursing team is led by putting off seeking medical advice or treatment to please contact your Nurse Unit Manager, Jane Thornley. appropriate health professional, and “I am very proud and honoured to lead if it’s an immediate concern, the such a hardworking team that focuses Norwest Emergency Department is on high quality care, supporting open, safe, and here for your care” our patients, their families and each other in the new world we now find said Ms Hall.

Ms Hall further added that the ourselves in.” said Ms Thornley.

The Norwest ED Team have access “Norwest ED access fee for those over 65 years old will be waived until to specialist consultations in over 20 September for patients admitted to specialties and is open 24 hours a Norwest Private Hospital and covered day, seven days a week to care for a by private health insurance. This will wide range of medical and surgical Norwest Private enable our vulnerable patients to emergencies. have access to high quality specialist ED can be contacted directly on geriatric medical, surgical and other 8882 8555.

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Legends of the Nepean Warwick Fuller

By Noel Rowsell

Warwick Fuller and HRH The Prince of Wales

Internationallyrenowned Australian artist Warwick Fuller has humble origins, born in 1948 and raised in the western Sydney suburb of Fairfield.

Warwick’s memory of his childhood days includes dirt roads, billy carts with windjammer sails, corrugated iron canoes caulked with melted tar off the main road, shanghais (sling shots), miles of storm-water drains and tunnels, bush, swamps, creeks, primary school and high school, with no art education Warwick married sweetheart Wendy in 1969 (aged 20 and 21 respectively) and the couple initially lived in a caravan, saving for 4 years for a deposit on a house at Emu Plains (soon after called Leonay).

Warwick said “Wendy and I raised son Shannon and daughter Cristie there (in Leonay) in a wonderfully close community of young families, all building and starting our journey in step with each other.”

“I joined the Nepean Art Society and made many life-long friendships

there and I’m proud to now be the Patron of that long-standing Society.”

“In the late 70’s, my painting career lurched into existence and I became involved with what was to be the Penrith Regional Gallery, home of the ‘Lewers Bequest’.”

“I think it was the call of my ancestors but after 30 years at Leonay, I built a house at Little Hartley (soon after called Kanimbla) in1999,” said Warwick.

“My Great-Great-Grandparents had settled there in 1839 and both the well and the tumble-down chimney are still evident at their old house, just a few kilometres from me.”

“Though I was painting furiously, with never enough hours in the day, Wendy and I did raise 30-something Alpacas on our 25 acres, before Wendy passed away in 2014.”

In regards to his painting career, Warwick said “Any recognition that I may have received (in the Art world) crept up surreptitiously.”

“There is no sense of having ‘made it’ - I struggled with my first painting in 1964 and I struggled with the sunset I attempted last week.”

“In those first years of painting, I

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Warwick Fuller was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Noel Rowsell.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

exhibited and sold work in ‘charity’ shows (in their ‘hey-day’) and it was those school and municipal weekend shows that kept the wolf from my door.”

“Then eventually I found suburban galleries which would take me on and through the 80’s and 90’s I was exhibiting in about fifteen suburban and Sydney galleries.”

“Slowly over the years I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to whittle that down to one gallery in Katoomba and one in London, UK.” “A major career highlight has been my recently opened survey exhibition at the Penrith Regional Gallery, home of the Lewers Bequest.”

“Paintings were drawn from collections Australia wide and the exhibition runs through to the 1st November.” “(As to the future) I have no idea where my career or life will go,” said Warwick.

“I’ve learned that there are many

twists and turns which are never contemplated, let alone dreamed of.”

“The guiding force that has kept me excited and driven for over fifty years remains undiminished.”

“With my partner Mary by my side and my beautiful children and grandchildren with me, I’ll keep pushing paint towards that elusive goal - to paint a good picture – and I’ll see where that takes me.”

“Shannon lives at Emu Plains has a daughter and son, whilst Cristie lives in the mid-mountains and has a son.”

As a summary of his extraordinary life, Warwick began painting fulltime in 1978, had formal studies with Kevin Oxley in 1979, is a Fellow of the Royal Art Society, Patron of the Nepean Art Society, Founding President of the Friends of the Penrith Regional Gallery, Past member of the Management Committee - Penrith Regional Art Gallery, has had over 60 Solo Exhibitions (including 10 in London), won 1st prize in Camberwell

in 2019, is an occasional teacher at Workshops and Seminars and has been Artist-in-residence at the NSW Department of Education.

Warwick has also released 3 Art Instruction DVD’s, featured in the TV Documentary Fuller’s Earth and has paintings in private, corporate and institutional collections, both in Australia and overseas, including 14 paintings in the collection of TRH The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Warwick also accompanied TRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall in Australia as official Tour Artist in 2012, 2015 and 2018.

Warwick has released a 184-page book, which is a careerspanning catalogue of 86 beautifully

reproduced paintings, representing over 40 years of painting.

The book chronicles Warwick’s first solo exhibition at a public gallery and is much more than a catalogue, sprinkled with anecdotes, quotes, background and musings on Warwick’s paintings - and life as a painter.

The book is available at Penrith Regional Gallery, home of the Lewers Bequest and Lost Bear gallery, Katoomba or warwick@ warwickfuller.com

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

20

local news

Dancing through National Diabetes Week

W

e all know how important it is to have healthy bodies and healthy minds. But have you ever wondered how the two can be connected?

Healthy bodies and healthy minds are linked in this year’s theme for National Diabetes Week, ‘Heads Up’.

The Heads Up campaign shines a light on how living with diabetes can affect a person’s mental and emotional wellbeing, as well as their physical health.

When someone has diabetes, their body can’t maintain healthy levels of glucose in the blood.

Glucose is a form of sugar which is the main source of energy for our bodies. High levels of glucose in the blood can lead to long term and short term health complications.

Diabetes NSW reports that someone living with diabetes may make up to 180 extra decisions a day compared to the average person.

These decisions can relate to food, medicines, checking insulin, physical activity, and many other health areas that are important for people living with diabetes.

This can be stressful and as a result, one third of all people who live with diabetes will experience anxiety, depression or stress related to their chronic disease.

National Diabetes Week 2020 aimed to remind us that living with diabetes can affect many areas of a person’s health – mental and physical.

This year’s theme was also a reminder that there are many people living with diabetes who are not just managing their disease, but thriving.

Western Sydney Local Health District Multicultural

Health Worker Dipti Zachariah, found a way to not only reduce the effects of her diabetes, but also improve her physical and mental health.

For Dipti, the answer was dancing.

Dipti says she simply “feels better” when she is dancing.

“My doctor gave me three months to reduce my blood glucose by making a lifestyle change,” she said.

“I had to be creative in my approach to managing diabetes – dancing is fun, free and fulfilling – it’s been a year and I’ve been waltzing.”

Dancing after meals not only made Dipti feel good, but it helped her to lose weight.

Although regular exercise is an important part of diabetes management, lots of people find it hard to maintain.

For Dipti, the reasons she is able to stick with dancing are simple: she enjoys it; she doesn’t need special equipment; and it doesn’t take long, so it’s easy for Dipti to fit into her day.

“I don’t want physical activity to be daunting,” she said.

“At work, managing a portfolio that focuses on empowering women from refugee and migrant backgrounds to own their health, motivated me to literally ‘dance the talk’.”

Director of Western Sydney Diabetes, Professor Glen Maberly, said Western Sydney is a diabetes “hotspot” with rates well over the state average.

“Diabetes is a serious condition that needs ongoing support,” Professor Maberly said.

“Early diagnosis and treatment is the very best approach to minimising the effect that this disease can have on a patient’s long term health.

“It’s important that the patient builds a relationship with their GP who can help with their diabetes and link them with other health care providers to benefit from all the support a team of experts can provide.”

Professor Maberly is a great supporter of getting all his patients more active.

“We find that our patients who exercise regularly have better control of their diabetes and also tend to be generally healthier and happier,” he said.

“I always say that you should choose an exercise you’re going to enjoy and any exercise at all is better than nothing. The important thing is – just get moving.”

Picking an exercise you enjoy and making small changes to your routine will help over the longer term, advised Rachael Graham from the Centre for Population Health’s Healthy Eating Active Living team.

“You don’t need to run a marathon once a week.

Dipti reminded us all that just a few extra minutes of activity a day can make a difference,” Rachael said.

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

22

local news

I

Balance At Work

S your business or your career spinning out of control? Are you going downhill quickly without any brakes? You might be on the dreaded cycle of doom!

This ‘cycle of doom’ is a phenomenon I’ve observed that is exacerbated by the current business environment. Read on to see if it applies to you...

If you are good at what you do and work hard, you hope to be recognised and rewarded.

But what happens when, at some point, you come to a grinding halt even though you’re more technically competent and working harder than ever before? Unfortunately, it’s a familiar pattern for many young professionals and business owners.

When you fall into the cycle of doom you may feel trapped, you become discouraged, your work output can slow and it might even lead to you getting fired. Business owners and founders are not immune to these effects. They should also be aware that team members on this cycle will have negative impacts on workplace culture and productivity.

Outcomes of this mindset: 1. You take on more and more work to prove that you can handle it Alternative: Take on more and more responsibility but make sure you have others around you sharing the load.

2. You neglect the obvious Alternative: Take the time to really

With Susan Rochester

listen and observe what’s happening around you, so you’re across what’s really going on.

3. You lose the connection Alternative: Learn about your team and take an interest in them as people. If they know you care about them, they’ll be more inclined to help you when you need it.

How do you get off the ‘cycle of doom’?

If you keep going this way, there is no way out.

As you work longer hours to get more done, all your energy is focused on doing the workplace administration and there’s no energy left for strategic thinking. On top of that, there’s no time or space allowed for reflection and growth.

With no time to reflect, you’ll stay stuck in your hard-working comfort zone.

That doesn’t sound (or feel) like a comfort zone, but it is! You are doing more of what you know instead of risking doing something different.

Are you ready to take a risk and try a different way? Your career trajectory can only go up and out of the doom – so do it before you burn out!

If you really want to escape the ‘cycle of doom’, or to support a valuable team member, we’re here to help. Give us a quick call on 0448 306 180 or send me an email susanr@balanceatwork.com.au for a free consultation.

Get in touch for a free consultation Call

0448 306 180

or email susanr@balanceatwork.com.au www.balanceatwork.com.au

Thumbs up Penrith businesses!

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

here’s never been a more challenging time than this if you’re a small business owner. It is financially and emotionally draining trying to stay afloat with an impacted income and changing trading terms.

But, if ever there was a place that is home to people who demonstrate great resilience, it is Penrith!

We change, remodel and adapt to whichever situation we find ourselves in and even when the hits keep coming, we dust ourselves off and keep going.

It has never been more important than now to shop locally and support our own local businesses.

Please help keep our region thriving, and give these guys a big thumbs up if you see them.

Support Local Winter Warmers 1b(a)/518 High Street, Penrith (Next to Priceline Pharmacy)

www.the5thdimension.com.au

Keep cozy this winter with the latest apparel from the Australian designers you know and love. We feature Camilla and Marc, Rebecca Vallance, Joslin knitwear, and many more including sustainable up and coming leather label, Ena Pelly.

Visit us in-store or online.

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Lola’s Boutique is all about YOU

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Proudly supporting local business

Lola’s is an independently owned boutique based in Penrith, giving ladies the ability to shop locally for all occasions and rest assured that you will have a choice of individual pieces in sizes ranging from 8 to 24.

We care about how you look. We want you to be comfortable whilst feeling confident and special in our clothing.

At Lola’s our team are dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional personal service which extends to personal appointments (before, during and after hours if you so desire) if we cannot find what you require in stock we will source it , or check our sister store Lolas Leura.

Come in and enjoy the Lola’s experience.

www.penrithcbdcorp.com.au

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

24

local COLUMNIST

Dental disease in pets D

oes your pet have bad breath? It’s hard to believe that four in five of our dog and cat patients over three years of age have some form of dental disease.

While many people believe that bad breath is normal for their furry friends, it can be an indication of a problem and one of the most common diseases that we see in animals.

Any dog or cat can be affected but dental disease is more common in smaller breed dogs with small faces such as Cavaliers, Poodles and Shi Tzus.

When food particles and bacteria are allowed to accumulate in the mouth,

it can form plaque. When plaque combines with saliva, it forms a hard substance called calculus. This causes gum irritation and inflammation which is known as gingivitis.

After a period of time, the calculus builds up under the gum line and separates it from the teeth – at this point in time, this is irreversible disease of the teeth and will lead to bone loss and formation of pus between the gum and teeth. Advanced periodontal disease can be very

painful for your pet and often the best course of treatment is surgically removing the teeth.

Periodontal disease is best prevented and there are several things that you can do to make sure your dog or cat has a clean and pain free mouth. The best thing you can do is brush your pets teeth daily but many animals will not tolerate this.

There are commerically available diets such as the Hills Science Diet T/D which will reverse the build up of

mild calculus and prevent future build up. Also providing your pets with chewable treats such as dentastix and greenies are great for reducing plaque build up. Minimising wet food is also great as wet food tends to cling to the teeth and cause a build up of bacteria.

Bones are best avoided as they can fracture teeth and cause gastro intestinal upsets and constipation.

Just like we go to the dentist and have our teeth scaled and polished, we can also do this for your pet.

Depending on the severity of your pets dental disease, they may benefit from a thorough clean under anaesthetic.

Scaling and polishing the teeth will reverse the early stages of gingivitis and cure bad breath!

From 13th July, Greencross Vet Coreen Ave will be offering discounts on Dental Procedures including dental checks, treatments and products. Phone us on 4731 3055 to organise your pet’s free dental check and discuss the best dental options for your pet.

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

Can you help reunite these pets with their families?

When a pet goes missing it is a particularly distressing time for any owner. And by the look on the faces of some of these local pets who’ve been found, it can be pretty distressing for the pet as well.

Have you seen any of our missing pets?

Do you recognise any of the pets who have been found?

There’s a facebook page called Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals and they are exceptionally good at reuniting lost pets with their owners. If you have any information regarding any of our featured pets, please head to the page and scroll for the owner’s

information. You can also call Hawkesbury Animal Shelter (which also serves the Penrith area) on 4560 4644. Alternatively, if you don’t use facebook feel free to call us on 9834 5579 and we will hook you up!

MISSING Springwood

FOUND Oxley Park

FOUND Emu Heights

MISSING Lethbridge Park

HEALTH

I

s it me, or are people acting a tad stupid of late?

Even the aliens on other planets are saying, “hell no. We are not going there; they are a messed-up bunch down there.”

I often ask new clients if they wear their underpants on the outside of their jeans. Of course I get some questioning looks, and then I say “Superman is excluded, superman wore lycra, I mean placing everything on display, putting it out there for the world to see.”

Well why place all your sordid details on social media?

I am no rocket scientist or brain surgeon thingy ma jiggo, but I do know that the badies look at social media posts. Yep you read it right, the BAD peoples!

For example, post: ”Oh God I get sick of being on close at the pub and closing every night at 11pm.”

Then add a check in, location services, pictures,

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

map, “I am always the last one here…sigh.”

All I can say is that comments like this are at upper cut level– with a Bruce Lee famous roundhouse kick.

People might as well have a flashing neon light, “Hey, rob my house because I am out for the day!” or “Hey, hold up my pub at 10:50pm because I am the only one here …sigh!”

Or, this is head shaking material.

Post, photos, pictures, “Look at my sweet baby girl only 5 in her new bathing suit, we are staying at bonehead point, in dropkick apartments right on the beach.” As vomit provoking as it may sound, there are really sick people on social media, so you can’t be too careful. And bath photos … don’t get me started on that.

“We are off on holidays for a week, great to get the whole family out of the house.” (smiling Emoji)

with duck face kissing selfies.

All I can say is that unless your Persian cat staying at home has been martial arts trained with nunchucks and is a black belt in kicking the crap out of anyone entering, then this is a stupid post … just sayn.

I love the medical posts, dear numbskull group, my baby has a giant red mark on his head, can anyone diagnose that for me, I am so worried #feelingdepressedandanixious Thankfully, Bill the drunk sitting at the pub on his 13th beer, has just read the post because it’s probably public, and he will tell you it is a possible bee sting and to rub metho on it – as his dad did in 1974.

From a security perspective, I often urge people to have a think first before posting stuff on social media, the domino effect is just the beginning folks.

I guess you can see my point …right?

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Nita

Ask

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

H

ave you ever wondered why clinics advertise “muscle relaxing injections” and “antiwrinkle injections” rather than specifying the actual product Trade name (e.g., Botox, Dysport ,Xeomin .It’s because the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has imposed a legal restriction which disallows the advertising of schedule 4 drugs. As it turns out, the active ingredient Botulinum Neurotoxin A in antiwrinkle injections is classified as a schedule 4 drug.

Unfortunately, this advertising restriction can make it difficult for consumers to do price comparison shopping because the product that one clinic is using may not be the same as the one a competitor is using so the prices are not comparable. Since the product Trade names cannot be advertised it falls on the consumer to make the inquiry.

I’m not a fan of using vague generalised words to describe botulinum type A injections as it does nothing to educate the consumer and pricing cannot be fairly compared.

* new connections

Antiwrinkle Injections Furthermore, the product Units, which is how most pricing is based, are not necessarily equal across brands which confuses the consumer even more.

To make it even more confusing some clinics reconstitutes the vial with 4 mls of saline instead of 2.5 mls. Thus they can offer it cheaper but the strength and longevity is weaker.

Briefly, antiwrinkle injections relax muscles.

Dynamic lines are formed by repetitive facial muscle movements. Antiwrinkle injections can reduce the appearance of dynamic lines. However, static lines, such as sleep lines and ageing skin can not be treated with botulinum toxin A based injections but can be treated with fillers.

Muscle relaxing injections performed by a skilled injector will minimise undesirable side effects, such as droopy eyebrows, dropped cheeks and crows feet.

Areas that can be treated with botulinum toxin A 1. Horizontal forehead lines 2. Frown lines 3. Eyes Crows feet 4. Lower eyelid wrinkling near nose 5. Lifting eyebrows 6. Balancing uneven eyebrows 7. Bunny nose lines 8. Raising Nose tip 9. Narrowing nostril flare 10. Flipping lips making them look fuller 11. Softening smokers lines

12. Turning corners of mouth up 13. Chin crease 14. Excessive dimpling reduction of Chin 15. Nefertiti jawline lift 16. Platysma vertical neck bands 17. Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of forehead, under arms, hands.

18. Bell’s palsy balancing muscles 19. Relaxing masseter teeth grinding.

20. Reducing masseter to narrow jawline resulting in more of a v shape rather than square shape face.

21. Super diluted mesotherapy into skin to reduce excessive oil that causes acne.

22. Mesotheraoy full face combination of hydrating HA and tox to target top layer of smas. By relaxing the top layer of the smas (fine muscle layer under the skin) the lower layer of the smas contracts which tightens overall face and neck skin.

23. Reducing calf size 24. Reducing shoulder muscle trapezium to elongate the appearance of the neck.

The amount of neurotoxin and or filler needed for each indication varies, thus the cost varies.

I offer a comprehensive consultation to discuss your individual needs, recommend dosage, and explain contraindications and possible side effects.

I am now working alongside plastic surgeon Dr Tim Papadopoulos at Cosmetic Culture.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

The G Spot

29

local news

One Day Itinerary With lockdown restrictions easing there’s no better time to get outside and discover your backyard.

Refresh your soul and stretch those weary WHF legs with an outdoor adventure in some of Penrith’s most unspoiled natural spaces. Plus make the most of the fresh air with a picnic lunch or dinner from some of Penrith’s best local restaurants whose takeaway menus are the perfect accompaniment to a full day of exploring.

Hike or Bike your way around Penrith Early morning is for exploring one of Penrith’s many hike or bike trails. Make the most of the quiet early hours enjoying our surrounding nature reserves and bushland undisturbed. With trails to suit walkers, off-road runners, cyclists and mountain bikers there’s literally something for everyone. Check out our printable Hikes and Bikes guide here.

Coffee break From adventures in nature to adventures of a different kind, make sure you stop for morning coffee (or a light brunch) at Café at Lewers, located in the grounds of the Penrith Regional Gallery.

Not only can you enjoy a much-needed caffeine hit and seasonal menu with takeaway options, you will also have the chance to explore the gallery grounds, which features a variety of sculptures by the original artist owners of the gallery site. Plus Café at Lewers offers yet another vantage point to enjoy the picturesque Nepean River.

Snap a selfie with one of Penrith’s local heroes Penrith is lucky to have a wealth of local artistic talent on display across the city. One of the most prominent murals in the city is Shannon Boyd’s colourful mural on the Penrith PCYC. Featuring a series of local icons, Shannon’s work celebrates Penrith locals, has been featured in Destination NSW tourism campaigns and makes a hell-of-a selfie background.

Lunch Emu Hall is one of Penrith’s newest and most popular dining venues. Set on the western banks of the Nepean River overlooking the spectacular Yandhai Nepean Bridge, Emu Hall promises to satisfy every craving under the sun from woodfired pizza to freak shakes, acai bowls to kebabs, campos coffee and cocktails and everything in between. And the best news is they have plenty of takeaway options available.

Enjoy views of the Nepean Valley and beyond at the Rock Lookout Mulgoa Cap off the perfect day at the Rock Lookout Mulgoa. A short walk through local bushland leads you to Penrith’s most glorious view of the Nepean Gorge. You’ll want to make sure your phone is fully charged to capture the changing colours as the sun slides over the Blue Mountains in the distance.

Dinner Wine and dine along the Nepean River at the Nepean River Restaurant Precinct which offers a wide range of dine in and takeaway options to suit your needs. The precinct is home to some family favourites including Tella Balls, Lone Star and the Coffee Club as well as the delicious Goji Bar and Restaurant which specialises in modern Asian cuisine, Eastbank Fish and Chips and Maldini’s Italian where a glass of red is a given. Fill up while lapping up the stunning river views.

This year certainly hasn’t gone as planned. I hope you and your family have stayed safe and well during these unprecedented times.

We have kept our doors open during this difficult period and we continue to provide a warm, safe place to live for women and children who have escaped family and domestic violence and/or homelessness.

Unfortunately, during this time there has been an increase in violent incidences in the home, which means we are needed now more than ever.

Family and domestic violence continues to be a significant problem in our country and specifically, in our area. I am devastated to report that this year alone over 25 women have been killed as a result of domestic or family violence. Our community is not immune to this issue and continues to have one of the highest rates of DV in the state.

Just in the last few weeks we have seen a number of women in Western Sydney killed as a result of violence

committed by someone known to them. Devastatingly, a woman who was just 20 years old was killed last week in our local government area, allegedly by her brother. Gabriella Delaney was an artist, with her whole life ahead of her.

Our biggest hope is that we no longer see a new name, what feels like every week, of a woman who has been killed as a result of family or domestic violence. Until then, I continue to be so proud of the work done at The Haven by a group of amazing staff and support networks that day in and day out are helping women and children escape and live a life free from violence.

Unfortunately, we haven’t been

unaffected by the impact of Covid-19. As you know, The Haven relies on fundraising to keep our doors open. We have already been forced to cancel a number of major fundraising events and expect to need to cancel more.

In addition, some of the key grants we have received in the past have this year been withdrawn as many organisations, such as local Clubs, are not in a financial position to offer them again this year.

This means we are well under our annual fundraising budget.

With the financial year quickly coming to a close, I take this opportunity to remind you that as we are a registered charity, any

donation you make to us is a tax deduction. If you are looking to reduce your taxable income, please think of us at The Haven. The Haven board of directors are all volunteers and consequently, we have no administration costs.

Every dollar you are able to donate will be used to provide front line services to keep women and children safe. It will help provide a roof over their head, warmth during winter, food in their bellies, a professional support system of social workers, outreach support once they leave us and most importantly the certainty that they can escape a life of violence and homelessness - and all while serving as a tax deduction for you. If you are able to donate, you can do so here.

We understand that this has been a difficult year for many and understand if you are not in a position to donate at this time.

I thank you for your continued support, whatever form that may take.

You can donate by heading to www.givenow.com.au/thehaven

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Discover your backyard

31

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

32

ENTERTAINMENT

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

34

ENTERTAINMENT

WORD SEARCH

Famous Singers with One Name ADELE MADONNA AALIYAH AKON BEYONCE BONO DIDO

EMINEM ENYA DUFFY LUDACRIS MIKA MOBY

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Book early: limited seating

True love lasts forever

It’s the World Cup Final, and a man makes his way to his seat right next to the pitch.

He sits down, noticing that the seat next to him is empty. He leans over and asks his neighbour if someone will be sitting there.

‘No,’ says the neighbour. ‘The seat is empty.’

‘This is incredible,’ said the man. ‘Who in their right mind would have a seat like this for the Final and not use it?’ The neighbour says, ‘Well actually the seat belongs to me.

I was supposed to come with my wife, but she passed away. This is the first World Cup Final we haven’t been to together since we got married.’ ‘Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that. That’s terrible….But couldn’t you find someone else, a friend, relative or even a neighbour to take her seat?’ The man shakes his head. ‘No,’ he says. ‘They’re all at the funeral.’

Snail with an attitude

A guy is sitting at home when he hears a knock at the door. He opens the door and sees a snail on the porch. He picks up the snail and throws it as far as he can. Three years later there’s a knock on the door. He opens it and sees the same snail. The snail says: ‘What the hell was that all about?’

A genie and an idiot

Three guys stranded on a desert island find a magic lantern containing a genie, who grants them each one wish. The first guy wishes he was off the island and back home. The second guy wishes the same. The third guy says: ‘I’m lonely. I wish my friends were back here.’

Kid 1 barber 0

A young boy enters a barber shop and the barber whispers to his customer. ‘This is the dumbest kid in the world. Watch while I prove it you.’ The barber puts a dollar bill in one hand and two twenty cent pieces in the other, then calls the boy over and asks, ‘Which do you want, son?’ The boy takes the coins and leaves. ‘What did I tell you?’ said the barber. ‘That kid never learns!’ Later, when the customer leaves, he sees the same young boy coming out of the ice cream store. ‘Hey, son! May I ask you a question?

Why did you take the twenty cent coins instead of the dollar bill?’ The boy licked his cone and replied, ‘Because the day I take the dollar, the game is over!’

Racing a bear

Two campers are walking through the woods when a huge brown bear suddenly appears in the clearing about 50 feet in front of them. The bear sees the campers and begins to head toward them. The first guy drops his backpack, digs out a pair of sneakers, and frantically begins to put them on. The second guy says, ‘What are you doing? Sneakers won’t help you outrun that bear.’ ‘I don’t need to outrun the bear,’ the first guy says. ‘I just need to outrun you.’

35 Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

JOKES ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

36 Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Face-to-face private, group and ensemble music lessons back

P

enrith Conservatorium, housed at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, is thrilled to announce that face-to-face teaching for private, group and ensemble lessons has resumed, from 2pm to 9pm weekdays and 9:30am to 2pm on Saturdays.

Students can participate in one-on-one lessons onsite at The Joan and learn piano, violin, cello, saxophone, clarinet, flute, trumpet, as well as singing and drums at the centre. Private music lessons are offered from beginner level through to AMEB Grade 8 and beyond to concert standard.

Online lessons are still available for those who prefer to keep a distance.

All ensemble classes will also resume from Monday 5 August – in Term 3, Penrith Conservatorium is offering the musical theatre class; High St Broadway, the vocal ensemble; Pop Vox, the strings programme, Penrith Strings as well as Penrith Youth Orchestra.

Get them started early!

Penrith Conservatorium will also resume its much-loved Early Childhood Music classes, a superb introduction to all things musical, in an enjoyable group setting. In these guided play-based sessions, children are introduced to the three areas of music readiness – singing, rhythm and listening, all of which prepare them for future development and lifelong learning.

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As part of the new COVID-safe measures, a COVID-19 Safety Plan has been implemented with extra sanitising stations, signage and appropriate distancing measurements put in place to ensure that all private lessons, group classes and ensembles are operated safely and in accordance with health orders at all times.

Whether it’s for leisure, to learn to write a song, or the determination to become the next piano prodigy, Penrith Conservatorium ensures the right fit from a selection of tutors with outstanding qualifications as both performers and educators. There is something for all instrument preferences, ages and skill levels. All are welcome to enrol – get in touch now!

Penrith Conservatorium accepts Creative Kids Vouchers for all its music programs. Check out the website to find out more and book your lessons now: www.penrithconservatorium.com.au

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38

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Ask the Expert - Cut Your Costs and Your Carbon Footprint In One

D

Sharon Mudiman Licensee and Principal of Bespoke Realty Group has been negotiating the sale of property for over twenty-five years in the Greater Penrith Region

iscomfort can be an excellent driver when choosing a path to change. In these uncertain times, two options seem to be presenting themselves – continue on the carved road or make way for a new way of thinking.

We have all seen images recently of the regeneration some of our country is enjoying while we were under travel restrictions. It has clearly highlighted the continued pressure we are putting on our planet.

Yet sometimes it’s easy to forget that reducing the carbon footprint of our homes can also create costcutting savings for our families, benefiting both our environment and ourselves.

A recently released series of easy-to-understand videos called Empowering Penrith are rich with inspiration how to make our homes more energy efficient and less expensive. For homeowners, investment in solar, battery storage, and hot water system upgrades can be part of a long-term strategy to reduce costs. For example, after the initial outlay for solar power, a system may have paid for itself in as little as 3-4 years. In addition, an older hot water system can account for up to 40% of your electricity

bill, which is not sustainable with energy costs consistently increasing. Investing financially in your home’s efficiency now can pay dividends in years to come, including increasing the value of your home should you choose to sell at some point.

For renters, it may appear there are few improvements they can make if their residence is not fitted out with infrastructure such as solar. However, this is not the case. Understanding how your home works and learning to manage it in every season can create significant savings. For example, understand how and when to use your appliances to capture cheaper electricity prices. If your bill states that your off-peak time begins at, say 11pm, set your washing machine or dishwasher to start the cycle after that time. In addition, using external or internal window coverings to lock heat in or out, depending on the season, will reduce how often you need to use the heating and cooling in your home. Small steps to managing your costs can add up immensely over time.

With so many simple ways to cut our costs and our carbon footprint at the same time, why wouldn’t we?

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

40

NEPEAN HISTORY

A Local Bootmaker

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

P

eter Smeaton was born in Scotland in 1827.

His parents were James Smeaton and Isabella Margaret Duncan. Peter married Catherine McCallum Campbell in Scotland in 1855 and they came as assisted immigrants to Australia with their two children James & Christiana on the “Parsee” arriving in 1859. (This was a “Bounty” system that was subsidised by the Government to assist employers in Australia with the cost of passage for skilled workers needed here). Not long after arriving, his wife died at Concord in October 1859 and is buried at St Thomas’ cemetery in Enfield.

Peter then moved to Penrith. In 1862 Charles Cowper sent a petition via the Colonial Secretary’s Office, addressed to His Excellency the Governor under the “Municipal Act Penrith”, that was signed by 123 resident householders of Penrith (including Peter) asking for an election to be held to have their locality made into a Municipality. This petition was the start of the Penrith Municipality with Peter being one of the Aldermen elected to the first Penrith Municipal Council. In February 1870, Peter, along with Messrs. P Robbins, W Simpson, Edward Heaton, William Fulton, William Yorke and Dr Thomas Willmott were elected to the new Public-School Board at Penrith. When this school was first established, the enrolment was 61 pupils and classes were held in a wooden building that was lined with weatherboards to a height of five feet and the remainder of the wall and the ceiling was made with hessian. (Hessian cloth is manufactured by weaving the fibres from the skin of jute plants together. The results are a dense, durable, and coarse fabric). Two years later the enrolment had increased to 165 and a new building was constructed. This one was built of brick at a cost of £560 and the people of Penrith donated £150. Peter married Martha Jane Squires in Penrith in 1873. She was born in 1848 and the daughter of Matthew Squires and Elizabeth Mitchell. In 1878 after being defeated earlier, Peter was again campaigning to be elected on the Council and said that “if he were elected he would endeavour to have business carried on properly within the Council, as there was at present a good deal of the element known as ‘colonial larrikinism’ and he was much afraid that the old Council Clerk would be reinstated if Messrs Riley, Smith, and Price were returned,” and so it was in July that year the Council received a letter from R Stuart (senr) offering himself, Peter and Thomas Appledore as bond for £200 for the honest performance of the Council Clerk’s duties that was accepted by the Council Aldermen. At that time Peter’s boot and shoe store was next door to William Fulton’s store called “Cumberland House” at 413-423 High Street. In 1879 Peter was one of 13 ratepayer signatures on a petition to the Mayor of Penrith Council to call a public meeting of the inhabitants for the purpose of forming a deputation in respect of a new recreation ground for the town and asked that sufficient sums of money be placed on the estimation of a new Court House. In 1883 at the Municipal election polling day, Peter took advantage of the occasion and addressed the ratepayers. He said that “on nomination day he asked two very important questions and he was pleased to notice that they had been taken up and brought under public notice. One question was asked of Alfred Colless after his

nomination speech, that did he not think that he had been too connected by family ties? - there being all Colless’, Evans’, Price’s, and Smith’s?” In June that year, Peter put in another nomination to be an Alderman on the Council, and in an advertisement in the local paper he said “Ladies & Gentlemen, I am a candidate for the office of an Alderman on the Council at the forthcoming election and I will not canvas personally for your vote. I will leave that entirely to your own intelligence and judgement and I hope to have the opportunity to meet you on nomination day when I will address you.” He was re-elected in 1885 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Alfred Colless and continued to serve for another three years. Also, in 1885 Peter was elected one of the Trustees of the cemetery at Emu Plains. That year there was also a narrow escape regarding his next-door neighbour William Fulton in High Street, where dense smoke was coming from his stables. Several people tried to save the horses and to put out the fire, but because of the smoke they were being suffocated. James Moss who was in the employ of Peter next door, rushed in and managed to douse the heap of burning bags that saved the fire from getting hold where the loss of property would have been enormous. In 1887, Peter now an ex-superintendent of the Penrith Public school was presented with Edwin Price’s manuscript, as well as three volumes of “Old and New Edinburgh”. That year, the Editor of the Daily Telegraph received a petition regarding the name “Australia” that was given by the Government. This petition was signed by many people who wanted to give their version of a name instead of “Australia”. Peter signed the petition saying he liked “Oceana” for the name? Peter’s success in Penrith, allowed him to build two cottages in Union Lane and also buy a site on the grand Hornseywood estate, erecting a very substantial brick house where he lived, but unfortunately he began to speculate in gold mines and suddenly lost heavily, and together with the speedy decrease in his business due to numerous other stores opening and competing against him, he had to sell the brick family home at a considerable loss and went to live in one of his cottages in Union Lane.

His business matters failed and that caused him to sell both cottages at a loss. He then rented a small shop in High Street near Mr Besley’s and carried on a small trade, but just two weeks before his death, ill health stopped him from further work. Peter died in June 1906 being one of Penrith’s oldest inhabitants and feelings of profound regret were announced at his death. It was said that his kindly disposition made him always ready to assist and render help to all in need. A conscientious man, always beloved by all who knew him in his younger days and the great interest he took in the welfare of the town. It was also known that he was a member of the Volunteer force for many years joining in 1868.

He is buried in the Presbyterian section of the Emu Plains Cemetery.

Martha died suddenly in 1918. She enjoyed good health for many years and was very active for her age. She took ill at Parramatta and was taken to the Nepean Cottage Hospital in Penrith where an operation was performed almost immediately on the arrival by Dr’s Day and Higgins, but she died. She is buried at Penrith General Cemetery. Photo of Peter courtesy of Wikitree website.

Sources: Ancestry, NSW Immigration Deposit Journals 1853-1900, Nepean Times, Government Gazette, Sydney Morning Herald, Cumberland Mercury (Parramatta), Evening News, Trove.

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

Isabelle Mansfield AGE: 20 years old

O

ur second instalment on Player Profiles from Wallacia Country Club features 2019 Ladies Club Champion Isabelle Mansfield.

At just 20 years of age, Isabelle is the third generation of her family to win a Club Championship at Wallacia Country Club, following in the footsteps of grandfather James Mansfield and father Jeff Mansfield.

Isabelle started playing Golf at the tender age of 7, attending Junior Clinics run by her father Jeff, who was the Club Professional at the time.

She played her first Pennant match as a 9-year old and looked destined for a career in the sport.

Golf however was always a hobby for Isabelle, something she enjoyed doing with her father, rather than a passion.

She pursued it more heavily when she was around 16, however between school, work and soccer she rarely found time to play or train.

At 18 years of age, Isabelle realised she wanted to turn Golf into a career and is now the Pro Shop Supervisor for Riverside Oaks Golf Resort and is enjoying every minute of it.

Isabelle said “Between that (working at the Pro Shop at Riverside Oaks) and playing in the NSW ‘Jean Derrin’ events, I am slowing turning into the golfer I always wanted to be.”

Photo by: Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

When & where did you start playing Golf? “I started playing when I was around 7 years old, mainly partaking in junior classes at Wallacia Golf Club. Around a year and a half ago I joined up at Penrith golf club, as I was offered a spot in their pennants team for 2019.”

Starting Handicap? 45 Current Handicap? 4 Major Achievements? “Winning the Club Championships at Wallacia Golf Club in 2019 and 2018. Winning the Nepean District Champion of Champions in 2019. Winning the Foursomes Championships at Penrith GC in 2019 and also winning the Hawkesbury Classic at Richmond GC in 2018.”

What’s in the Bag? “KZG clubs including Driver, 3-Wood, 5-Wood, 7-Wood, 4 Iron down to Pitching Wedge, 52° Wedge, 56° Wedge and Putter. I am currently using Titleist Prov1 golf balls, Titleist Rain-Grip gloves, Footjoy Super-Lite shoes.”

Future Aspirations? “I am currently working in the Pro Shop at Riverside Oaks Golf Resort, as well as playing in the ‘Jean Derrin’ events around NSW. I have goals to hopefully be playing golf professionally in the future, however I am taking one day at a time.”

Favourite club in the bag? “Is my putter, as I personally consider it to be the most important club in the bag” Biggest highlight of career to date? “Winning the Club Championships back in 2018. It was the first Club Championship I had won and it meant that I was the 3rd generation of my family to win a Club Championship at Wallacia CC.”

Pennant Players Poised On the Tee

Penrith GC’s successful 2019 Super Senior Pennant and W. Gibson Pennant squads - photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

By Noel Rowsell

G

olf NSW has approved the return to Pennant Golf and there are two major competitions set to begin.

The T.L. Warren (B Grade) and W. Gibson (C Grade) competitions both tee off on 26th July, with 6 of the 8 Western Sydney Region (WSR) Clubs competing in the event.

Stonecutters Ridge GC (Div 3), Penrith GC (Div 10), Leonay GC &

Twin Creeks CC (Div 11), Wallacia CC & Richmond GC (Div 12) will all compete in both the T.L. Warren and W. Gibson series, whilst Springwood CC (Div 9) will only compete in the T.L. Warren competition.

Penrith GC was the best-performing of the local clubs in 2019, reaching the semi-finals (Top 4).

The Super Seniors Pennant competition (over 65’s) will also go ahead this year, with the first round scheduled for the 4th August.

A total of 59 NSW Clubs will participate in Super Seniors in 2020, with 33 from the Sydney Metropolitan / Wollongong regions, along with 26 from the north (ranging from the Central Coast to the mid-North Coast inclusive).

The WSR is again well represented, with 6 of the 8 member clubs competing in the Super Seniors competition.

Wallacia CC, Richmond GC and Springwood CC are all playing

in Division 3, whilst Penrith GC, Dunheved GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC will all compete in Division 4, along with Twin Creeks CC. Penrith GC was again the most successful of the local Clubs in 2019, reaching the Quarter Finals (Top 8), whilst Twin Creeks CC reached the Top 16.

Dunheved GC are a new entrant in Super Seniors in 2020.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Local golf’s high achievers

41

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

42

SPORT

A plan for the future at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium

By Noel Rowsell

A

workshop on the future of the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, held on Wednesday 26 February 2020 at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith, has cemented government interest in a revitalisation project for the venue.

Attendees represented the following organisations: Paddle Australia, Penrith City Council, Penrith Lakes Development Corporation, NSW Office of Sport, Paddle NSW, Australian Institute of Sport, NSW Institute of Sport, Heeley Consulting, Hydrostadium, Penrith Whitewater, Sydney International Regatta Centre, EDF Renewables, 3D Environmental, Whitewater Parks International and Precinct Capital Pty Ltd. Richard Fox (Project Director) gave a presentation that outlined Paddle Australia’s vision and the ‘New River Project’ - which entails the creation of an ‘easy river’ - a multi-use channel (course) aimed at both beginners and recreational water activities (on grade 1-2 rapids.

The workshop identified the current facility in Penrith was built for the 2000 Sydney Olympics and whilst it is still one of the more popular courses in the world, being the only Olympic-standard facility for Canoe Slalom in Australia and also used extensively by European teams for training during their winter months in the northern hemisphere.

However, the facility is now 20 years old and in need of renewal.

The workshop discussed the need to further support Penrith’s growing reputation as an adventure destination and an opportunity to create a unique visitor experience was identified.

This opportunity includes restaurant and cafe facilities, walking and cycling tracks (potentially linking through the Regatta Centre, Penrith Lakes and the Nepean River) and water-based activities, with the potential for repeat visitation identified as a strength.

A new high-performance centre (similar to the facility used by the Australian Women’s Rowing Team and located adjacent to the Penrith Rowing Club) is also planned for the site.

A pre-election Federal Government funding commitment for the highperformance facility, confirmed last month, is seen as an opportunity to kickstart a broader development and revitalisation of the Lakes precinct.

New energy solutions for the expanded site such as solar panels would allow the facility to not only reduce its costs but to become an energy supplier, supporting local enterprise, adjacent facilities and the community.

The workshop participants agreed during the session that renewable energy generation could be a project

2 local paddlers training at the Whitewater Stadium, Noemie Fox (top) and Alex Broome (below).

Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

enabler, especially if the assets of adjoining facilities such as the Regatta Centre and Penrith Lakes were combined.

All participants agreed to meet on a semi-regular basis to maintain momentum for the project.

The next key steps will include design and approvals for the highperformance component, along with feasibility studies to provide a business case to government to fund the wider community benefits.

Paddle Australia subsequently released the following statement: “It was exciting to hear that the recent Federal government announcement included the first tranche of an infrastructure grant to Paddle Australia. The grant enables the sport to move ahead and engage with the relevant planning authorities to develop a permanent high performance centre at Penrith Whitewater Stadium, which is still recognised and appreciated as one of the best courses in the world.”

“As well as looking after the needs of our future champions, the broader project aims to develop new facilities that will boost community participation, visitation and tourism.

An “Easy River” channel, a destination café experience, renewable energy and cycle-ways connecting the Penrith Lakes parklands to the city are key components of the project.”

Paddle Australia Project Director Richard Fox said “Having moved to Penrith and been closely involved in

the development of the whitewater course for the Sydney 2000 Games, it is a real pleasure to see that the Federal Government and AIS have confirmed their continued commitment to the sport. There is no doubt that this investment in permanent facilities at the venue will help sustain Australia’s performance through future Olympic campaigns and assist in the growth of future champions.”

“Importantly, from a local community perspective, this

investment means the sport will be able to work closely with other key stakeholders to attract additional investment and integrate the high performance centre within a revitalisation project for the venue and surrounding parklands,” said Richard.

“The vision is to sustain the Olympic legacy further through the development of an active lifestyle precinct that is connected to the City of Penrith.”

An artists impression of the new channel - photo supplied by Hydrostadium

local news

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Hancock Prospecting W o m e n ’ s National Training Centre was officially opened in October 2017, located adjacent to the Nepean Rowing Club on the banks of the Nepean River.

The Centre currently has 25 athletes in training and 7 full-time staff, with the location providing immediate access to on-water training for Australia’s elite female rowers.

Winter training sessions have recommenced (post-Covid restrictions), with the athletes on the river at 8.30am for sessions ranging between 1-2 hours, depending upon the respective session.

Off-water training is also conducted in the NTC, with the rowers doing core (gym) session in the middle of the day and an indoor rowing session in the afternoon.

There are currently 4 World Champions training at the NTC, with Lucy Stephan, Sarah Hawe, Katrina Werry and Olympia Aldersey winning Gold at the 2019 World Rowing Championships in the ‘Women’s Four’.

Georgie Rowe, who was part of Australia’s Women’s Eight that won silver at the 2019 World Rowing Championships, is the current World Record holder on the indoor rowing machine for the 4-minute, the 5km and the marathon in her age category (19-29 year old).

Katrina Werry, Olympia Aldersey, Sarah Hawe, Lucy Stephan after winning the 2019 World Rowing Championship title in Women’s Fours. Photos supplied by Rowing Australia.

Currently, there are no Olympic gold medalists at the HPWNTC however there are 5 Olympians (Jessica Morrison, Molly Goodman, Genevieve Horton, Stephan and Aldersey).

In addition, 2012 and 2016 Paralympic Silver Medallist Erik Horrie is also supported at the NTC, accessing the gym and the sports medicine/S&C team.

There are no events planned for the remainder of 2020, with the Australian National Championships scheduled for end of March 2021 and to be held on Lake Barrington in Tasmania.

The next International events are due to be the World Rowing Cups in Europe next June, followed by the rescheduled 2021 Olympic Games.

Lucy Benjamin, Rowing Australia Communications and Community

Relations Manager said “Rowing is intrinsically linked to the Nepean River and Penrith.”

“This year will mark the 20th anniversary of the Sydney Olympics Games, where we of course raced at the purpose-built Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) .”

The SIRC is still used by Rowing Australia to this day, having

Georgie Rowe - World Champion in 4-minute, 5km and Marathon on Indoor Rowing Machine.

hosted multiple Masters and Open Championships, as well as trials and training for our elite and underage teams,” said Lucy.

“One of the reasons Rowing Australia chose Penrith for the Women’s NTC is no doubt due the unparalleled waters of the Nepean River for training.”

Rowena Meredith and Ria Thompson

Sea planes return to the skies over Penrith

By Noel Rowsell

T

he ‘Rise off Water’ group of Aeromodellers NSW met at the Penrith Regatta Centre on Sunday 12th July, celebrating their first gathering since Covid-19 restrictions were put in place in March.

Persistent fog prevailed throughout the morning but the fliers were undaunted, eager to finally launch their craft off water and flex their wings.

Rise Off Water has 20-25 regular fliers, with ages ranging from 25-70 years.

Members come from as far afield as the South Coast and Central Coast to fly at Penrith, meeting on an average once per month.

The range of planes is as wide and varied as the imagination, with planes either adapted to floats or specifically designed to operate on water.

Many of the ‘Rise Off Water’ members fly land-based planes as well and often travel as a group (pre and post-Covid) to events scheduled

by Aeromodellers NSW, which is the State Association of Model Aviation Clubs, which are the place of Radio

Action from the ‘Rise Off Water’ group at the Penrith Regatta Centre. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Controlled Model Aviation within NSW, including helicopters, gliders, jets, quad copters and sea planes, among others.

People wishing to either join the Club or obtain further information can contact Tim Nolan (president@ nsw.aeromodellers.org.au) or go to the website (NSW.aeromodellers.org.au).

The contest Calendar is also available on the website, which is also being updated as events are scheduled post-Covid.

The next two meetings at the Penrith Regatta Centre for ‘Rise Off Water’ are 26th July and Sunday 2nd August, with flights commencing between 9-9.30am.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Australia’s elite rowers back in training

43

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

44

SPORT

Join the MG Activ family

By MARK GEYER

W

hen I retired from professional Rugby League, I tried lots of different ways to fill the void that no longer playing sport with your mates leaves.

I went to gyms, I ran laps of parks and streets, I tried different sports, but none gave me THAT feeling.

After a time I realised it wasn’t just the physical aspect of Rugby League that I was missing but the comradery, the chats and the laughs with a group of friends.

So…about 15 years ago I set up a home gym in one of our spare rooms.

Soon there were five or six mates coming over. I then converted our carport to an enclosed gym with more equipment and more variety. Soon there were 40 people using our home gym.

So I figured it was time to give the people of Penrith what me, my family and our mates experience on a daily basis when we all train together: a sense of achievement and satisfaction.

MG Activ was built for those like me who cannot train alone. For those who love working out with others.

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Come and join me at MG Activ – where you can be you!!

SPORT

I

Fundamentals of Junior Coaching

n the past fortnight we have seen the resumption of Winter sporting competitions as we hopefully see life start to move towards our new normal. If you are one of the thousands of junior coaches volunteering your time to assist young athletes play the sport they love, thank you!

Junior coaches need to be involved for the right reasons, as they have a responsibility to ensure the young men and women they are coaching are having fun, have equal opportunity and are learning as much as possible. As a coach it should never be about you or your agendas and ambitions. It needs to be about the players. This is also a vital message in which parents need to commit to follow.

In order to build a positive culture within your team environment it is vital that you are transparent and honest with the parents of the players you are coaching. Coaches need to ensure they put the development of each individual player at the forefront of their coaching focus. Coaches cannot allow themselves to be influenced or dictated to by parents. Coaches have a responsibility to make decisions that are best for the team as a collective.

Not to make decisions which will appease parents who can often only be looking through the eyes of their own children.

As coaches we need to constantly ask ourselves: How can I improve as a coach? What are my coaching goals? What is my coaching philosophy? We should not be coaching with the aim of turning players into robots who follow our every instruction. Teach your players to experiment, think, make decisions and be creative. The values we carry as coaches have a major impact on the ability of our players to learn and develop.

Implement team rules, structures and processes early and make sure all parents are aware of them. And when I mention rules, structures and processes I am not referring to robotic strategy and tactics that players must follow on field.

I am talking about the life skills they need and can learn from within our junior sporting organisations. Clearly communicate the way you want the parent / coach relationship to work, expectations and rules, season plans and your coaching philosophy.

Simplicity is often the greatest complexity in

Wests Tigers SG Ball Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

coaching and teaching. Keep things as simple as possible. Junior sport is not professional sport, so don’t treat it as such. From my experience within both junior and senior Rugby League representative systems the skills which often make or break players at the professional level are the fundamentals which they should have learnt and refined at the junior level. Too often coaches tend to focus on a player’s strengths and will gloss over or fail to challenge their weaknesses. Don’t be the one to ignore deficiencies, be the one to fix them, it is our job. Ensure you are coaching holistically by teaching the basic fundamental skills of your sport correctly to build a solid foundation.

The focus at the junior level needs to shift back to ensuring all players learn the simple fundamentals of their sport whilst having fun.

The greater the level of skill in each player, the greater the chance the player will experience success. Success in obtaining skills builds a players confidence and enjoyment within their chosen sport. As a junior coach if you have the ability to create skilful, confident players who love the game you have done your job.

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Coach’s Corner

Brock Shepperd

45

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Aug 1 3.00pm

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SCORE

Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets

104 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

116 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 9912 2000

106 Captain Chris - Nepean Belle - 4733 1274

110 Armchair Champions Podcast - www.armchairchampions.com.au

98 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

112 John Kibbey - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 538

104 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

104 Ross Franklyn-Smith - Club President, St Marys Diggers & Band Club - 9623 1211

106 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400 Councillor Benard Bratusa

102 Daniel Galea--@print Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091 Aaron Tyres

108

Come join the family

mgactiv.com.au

TIPSTERS ROUND 11

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PAR NQC BRI NZW CRO CAN NEW GCT STG WES BRI SYD NQC MAN BUL MEL WES MAN MEL SYD STG SOU BUL PAN SOU NZW CRO GCT CAN PAN PAR NEW July 23 7.50pm

July 24 6.00pm

July 24 7.55pm

July 25 3.00pm

July 25 5.30pm

July 25 7.35pm

July 26 2.00pm

July 26 4.05pm

July 30 7.50pm

July 31 6.00pm

July 31 7.55pm

Aug 1 3.00pm

Aug 1 5.30pm

Aug 1 7.35pm

Aug 2 2.00pm

Aug 2 4.05pm

SCORE

Terry Geyer ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Columnist Clair Comets Mark - Nepean News and Owner of MG Activ

106 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

114 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

126 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

110 Scott Moore - Electra Cables - 0439 021 368

110 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 4760 0809

98 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

120 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

108 Bradley George - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977

110 Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

112 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

108

“Where you can be you”

mgactiv.com.au

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

48

SPORT

Tex’s tales with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker I’m not really sure how to describe the year 2020. Yes many expletives come to mind but some of the following descriptive words would fall into a fair analysis - emotional, tragic, messy and highly challenging.

This is across both personal and professional levels.

Lives have been lost, many have joined the unemployment queue and one’s mental health has been tremendously strained.

The challenges of sports people in the AFL and NRL are immense and in the current climate individuals are not going to be switched on as they normally would be.

The New Zealand Warriors have made tremendous sacrifices and now the Victorian AFL teams are on the road away from their families.

Everyone on this earth is different, most are family orientated and to be in a bubble away from loved ones affects their emotions, and in turn it will affect performance.

The respective 2020 competitions are certainly different from any other year that’s for sure.

I’m proud to be an Ambassador of Walk n Talk for Life, a Suicide Awareness and Prevention group that’s was founded by former NRL footballer Shannon Nevin.

Shannon commenced the group on the Northern Beaches six years ago with walks spreading to the likes of Tamworth, Lithgow, Wagga Wagga, Pemulwuy, Bondi, Castle Hill, Oatley and also New Zealand just to name a few.

When critiquing professional sports people many journalists wouldn’t know the effect, or even possibly care when writing about the individual.

There are serious issues at the Brisbane Broncos, but before we stick the boot in I’m sure there are a few underlying factors with some of the players.

Darius Boyd has a history of depression and is releasing his book (Battling The Blues) next month whilst Alex Glenn was in tears following a defeat a fortnight ago. What I’m saying is, I believe there is something affecting, not just

Canberra Raider John Bateman was at the centre of gutless attacks from online bullies. the Broncos, but many teams with the way the year 2020 has been served up.

These players are young, some very raw, the journos are old enough to be their father or grandfather, they should know better.

Look at the innuendo surrounding Raider John Bateman and his supposed move to the Bulldogs. Bateman was never going to the Bulldogs but it caused hate groups from so called Raiders fans and they were brutal on social media.

Bateman wants to go back to England near his home town of Wigan and be closer to family.

Who could possibly begrudge him of that? The false Bulldogs report made Bateman become a target, and what happens to the person who made it up nothing - but Bateman had to cop the brunt of bullies. Bateman is a seemingly strong character and bless him he fought back against the trolls. It could have easily been a lot worse.

Half the country is living in fear, a small percentage are not taking Covid 19 seriously and seemingly each day provides a new restriction. The uncertainty takes its toll. Some handle it, some don’t.

Unfortunately news outlets encourage staff to be over opinionated and not concentrate on correct reporting, apparently that doesn’t sell.

Here’s hoping the NRL can provide some guidelines when they hand out media accreditation in the future.

SMITH PRODUCE and

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Emus Back on Track T

he announcement of the reinstatement of the Penrith Emus to the Shute Shield is another breath of fresh air for Sydney’s west.

The appointment of John Muggleton as head coach is of great significance. He is a man with a deep understanding of the challenges of the region and insightful optimism about the size, scale and scope of the opportunity.

Muggleton played junior Rugby at Dundas Valley before moving on to a memorable career at the Parramatta Eels, which included a Grand Final victory and in 1982 was chosen for the Kangaroo Tour, which became known as “The Invincibles” as it steamrolled through England and France to win all 22 games, the first time the Aussies had gone through a Kangaroo Tour undefeated.

He was a high school teacher during his playing career which included a stint at St Pat’s Blacktown.

“Patties” also had Parramatta winger Graeme Atkins and Balmain Tiger Ross Conlon working at the school.

He ventured into coaching Rugby post his playing career. He has been on the coaching staff with the Wallabies and Melbourne Rebels and now finds himself with a huge mountain to climb in the Shute Shield.

The Emus and Newcastle Wildfires re-join the competition this year with the now 13 teams to battle it out over 13 rounds before semi-finals, an elimination final and a grand final on October 31.

Fans will be able to watch the match of the round throughout NSW LIVE on 7TWO and across Australia on 7plus and there will be some limited access for crowds to enter the grounds, under strict bio-security protocols and based on medical advice due to COVID-19.

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Former Eel John Muggleton will kick start his Penrith Rugby coaching career this Saturday against Northern Suburbs.

With a new Shute Shield season comes a new 7Sport on-air commentary team with the competition’s biggest line up to date. Joining Tony Lewis in the callers box will be Sean Maloney and Louise Ransome, along with former Shute Shield champion and Scotland international Daniel Parks and Olympic Gold Medallist, and former Australian Sevens and Wallaroos Captain, Shannon Parry.

Sydney Rugby Union President, Phillip Parsons said: “It goes without saying that re-commencing this year’s season has not been without its challenges.

“I’d like to thank all of those who have been involved in what’s been a huge effort to get the season started.

“Sydney Premier Rugby gives meaning to so many people across our districts and it’s vital we work together to keep it operating during these times – social distancing is critical and everyone can help.

The Emus had the bye in the opening round and take on Northern Suburbs, who were impressive in their opener against West Harbour, this weekend.

Sitting on top of the ladder for the first time this season is a great feeling for all Panthers fans.

That makes them an even bigger target as opposing teams love nothing better than

knocking a team off their perch.

One would think a victory is on it’s way against The Titans this Sunday and complacency has no place in the playing and coaching group.

Panthers physio Pete Green reports that Zane Tetevano should be back on the field playing in the next fortnight.

Tetevano is suffering with lower back strain which occurred in the victory over Melbourne

Storm in Round 6, before aggravating it against the Tigers three weeks ago.

Brian To’o is still a fair way off following ankle surgery two weeks ago and Kurt Capewell continues rehab after an operation on his knee.

It’s hard to get a read on GWS this season. Two impressive wins were followed by successive losses against Port Adelaide and Brisbane.

The Giants are performing well in patches but

have found it difficult to close out games recently.

It doesn’t get any easier taking on Richmond in a Grand Final rematch at Giants stadium tomorrow night.

Fair play award to Sydney based Irish Jockey Robbie Dolan.

Following his day at the office at Randwick last Saturday Dolan took to social media to provide a review of all his rides.

Dolan didn’t ride a winner on the day but it was most refreshing for his supporters to hear reports on how the horses actually did.

Dolan was beaten in a photo in his final ride of the day aboard The Joe Pride trained Derbari. Looking forward to more reviews from the popular hoop who has ridden 176 winners in his Australian career thus far.

I believe it would be most refreshing if sports people took to their social accounts following a win, loss or draw. With such a big fan base it only takes a minute or two of their time to give an insight. But, a big but, please refrain from the normal boring cliches. Looking forward to a Panther having a crack real soon!

Albeit a shortened season it was great to have grass roots Rugby League back on the playing field last weekend.

The Penrith JRL will conduct eight rounds

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

Tex’s tales

49

Jockey Robbie Dolan starting at Under 6’s which will be complete in the first weekend of September.

Ahhh, now just to get the sausage sizzle back in action!!

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Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

50

SPORT

Looking for hockey players!

Looking for a sport that caters to all ages, gender and ability?

H

ow about considering hockey? They’re currently looking for more players so your timing is perfect!

Nepean Hockey Association is based at Western Sydney University (Kingswood Campus) off O’Connell Street with all games played at this venue.

Their facilities consist of two (2) synthetic fields - a Hybrid field and a Water field.

For more information: secretary@nepeanhockey.com.au 0417 671 947

Rowing along the Nepean River for all ages

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Nepean Rowing Club ran a ‘Learn to Row’ program on the Nepean River over the School Holidays, offering 3 free sessions for all local children aged between 12-18 years of age.

The program attracted over 40 children from various local schools, with each session restricted to 1-5 rowers, on various days and times, to cater for every child’s availability.

Daniel Waddell, Rowing Coordinator at the Nepean Rowing Club said “It has been a very wellreceived program and one we are very proud of offering to locals.”

“It is our vision to grow the sport of Rowing in the local area, with a focus on Youth Rowing.”

“Rowing is a very unknown sport in Western Sydney and we want to change this and will continue to run initiatives like this (program), to ensure as many people as possible can experience the sport,” said Daniel.

Action from a training session on the Nepean River - photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

“We will be likely running another program next holidays but we do not have details at this stage.”

“However, we do run Learn-toRow’ sessions year-round and people (particularly kids) can get involved at anytime,” he said.

Contact Details -Daniel Waddell, Rowing Co-ordinator (Nepean Rowing Club) Email: rowing@ nepeanrowingclub.com.au Website: https://www.nepeanrowingclub.com. au/learn-to-row.html

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

Nathan can see Clearly now...

Nathan Cleary is leading the way

A

s the Panthers sit atop the NRL ladder on 17 points, the first time they have since 2003 (hmmm) write down Sunday the 19th of July. The day Nathan Cleary showed to all that he has turned the switch and becoming one of the better footballers in our game.

The Covid lockdown drama has been well documented, but it’s his determination and grit since serving his 2 game suspension from the just mentioned saga that has been the eye catcher.

Penrith is now Nathan’s team and he takes this personally. Like last Sunday against the Cowboys. After an ordinary first half, coach Ivan would have been more than eager to get his chargers back into the sheds to reassess their attitude levels.

Complacent would have been the first word used once back for oranges at half time by the entire coaching staff. The Panthers were playing at the level of their counterparts and that’s not what the really good teams do.

Enter Nathan Cleary.

We all know how good an attacker he is, but last Sunday he pulled off two bone rattling tackles that forced an error from the Cowboys players resulting in

Cleary becoming the aggression barometer!

When you take ownership of something you do more for it, you make sure that everything is done for it. Like Cleary did for the Panthers last Sunday.

As I said earlier it’s (the team) his ‘baby’ now, and if his stats on Sunday are anything to go by ( 22 runs- 157m, 1 try, 1 try assist, 2 offloads, 2 line breaks, 4 tackle breaks, 20 tackles) he won’t let anything get in the way of making it better and better.

There is an eerie feel to the current crop of Panthers that the 91, and 03 teams had too. A delicate mix of local juniors coupled with a sprinkling of outside talent that makes this year’s team a must not miss team to watch.

It was great seeing fans back at the game last Sunday, let’s hope that on the night of the big dance later this year the Panthers are there - as well as all of their supporters.

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 23 July 2020 Issue 282

on the

SPORT 51 51 51

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