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A

fter 11 years of delivering its successful Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) system to the community, Penrith City Council welcomes a plan under consideration by the Federal Government (Varga R 2021, ‘Kitchens set for a rubbish revolution’, The Weekend Australian, 20 February, p.3) to introduce kitchen scrap bins in households across the country.

Penrith’s innovative FOGO system – otherwise known as the green-lidded bin and kitchen caddy with free compostable bags has proven that this streamlined process works.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said Council is proud to be a leader in this space and encourages other councils and tiers of government to get on board.

“Penrith Council quickly realised the 3-bin system was the most effective, environmentally friendly way forward after research conducted in our own backyard over 15 years ago revealed opportunities to improve our waste management,” Cr McKeown said.

“We became the first metropolitan council in Australia to introduce the FOGO system and since 2009, 358,278 tonnes of FOGO has been collected, with 335,540 tonnes being composted and ultimately saved from landfill.

“I am proud to be Mayor of such a progressive, forward-thinking Council which has established

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itself as a leader in this space – and I strongly urge others to roll out the FOGO service.

“I must also give credit to the wonderful residents of our great City, who have embraced this innovative, environmentally responsible waste collection service and continue to separate their food and organic scraps week after week.”

In 2005, Council found more than 30% of the City’s FOGO material, which includes food scraps, garden clippings and other organic waste, went in red-lidded bins. This leads to environmental issues when it goes to landfill as FOGO material releases methane as it breaks down.

Council’s resource recovery rate has jumped from 21% to 66% since the FOGO service was introduced – 10 years ago in urban areas and one year ago in the City’s rural pockets - resulting in far more compost.

For more information about the 3-bin FOGO service, visit penrith.city/3bins

Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Rubbish revolution

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Penrith hosts NSW ALGWA Executive

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM with the NSW ALGWA Executive at the Civic Centre

T

he NSW executive of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) met in Penrith last week with Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM hosting the visit.

“It was great to welcome the NSW ALGWA executive to Penrith for their meeting, particularly as Mayor,” Cr McKeown said.

“Penrith City Council has been at the forefront of gender equity for some time now which was why I was pleased to welcome ALGWA for their meeting to discuss how we can grow female representation in local government.

“There remains a level of

inequity with the amount of female representation in local government, particularly in NSW, being at just 27%. We need to encourage and support higher representation of female Councillors to better reflect our communities.

“Local government elections will be held in September this year and I’d like to see greater diversity and opportunities for women across NSW to add their voice in local government,” Cr McKeown said.

ALGWA has secured grant funding to run a series of forums around the State for women interested in nominating for council.

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith announced that the NSW Government will provide $1.5 million for the restoration of the historic Glenbrook Tunnel as part of its COVID-19 stimulus program.

Stuart Ayres said the funding would pave the way for reactivating the tunnel as a recreational trail, in collaboration with Blue Mountains City Council.

“This funding will help progress the adaptive reuse of the tunnel as a walking trail and tourist attraction for locals and visitors alike to enjoy,” Mr Ayres said.

“Opening the tunnel would provide a missing link connecting Glenbrook and Lapstone villages with Leonay and Emu Plains and Penrith’s Great River Walk, and contribute to an extensive network of tracks and trails in the area that will add to the region’s tourism appeal.”

The $1.5 million stimulus funding follows $600,000 previously invested by the NSW Government to clean-up part of the tunnel, and to install a stainless steel gate at the western end in 2019.

The 660-metre long brick railway tunnel, which was originally constructed in 1891 and then shut in 1913, was used for mustard gas storage in World War II amid fears of a foreign invasion.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the new $16.5 million Greater Sydney Crown Land Open Space Activation Program would fund upgrades to Crown land and community facilities.

“The last 12 months has taught us the importance

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

of green open space and creating public places where people can safely meet, congregate and relax,” Mr Stokes said.

“It makes good sense that by improving Crown land and public infrastructure we can make better use of the assets we already have to create more open space for the community to enjoy.

“These projects will also support local jobs and economies with work for tradespeople and materials suppliers.”

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Glenbrook tunnel restoration

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith encourages locals and community groups to pick up a brush and ‘love where they live’ as the State marks Graffiti Removal Day for 2021.

Stuart Ayres said Graffiti Removal Day is about taking pride in our local neighbourhood by removing and preventing graffiti.

“COVID-19 has seen fewer people working from offices and more people working from homes,” Stuart Ayres said.

“There has never been a better time for Penrith locals to get involved, roll up their sleeves and improve our community by volunteering in this year’s Graffiti Removal Day on Sunday 28 March.

“I urge all Penrith locals to save the date in their calendars and to comply with essential COVID Safe guidelines while taking part in this great annual event,” Stuart Ayres said.

Attorney General Mark Speakman said illegal graffiti is not only a blight on the beauty and character of our local communities, it’s also very costly.

“Illegal graffiti costs the State more than $300 million in clean-up expenses each year, which is just remarkable,” Mr Speakman said.

“These are vital funds that the

Government would much prefer to spend on our police, healthcare workers, teachers, and other dedicated frontline workers that support our state each day.”

Graffiti Removal Day Chairman

Bob Aitken said this year up to 3,000 volunteers are expected to remove illegal graffiti from approximately 600 sites around NSW. “Since we began in 2012, volunteers have removed more than 141,000sqm

of graffiti, saving the community $10.4 million,” Mr Aitken said.

To get involved, Penrith locals can volunteer or nominate a clean-up site by visiting www.graffitiremovalday. org.au.

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Penrith community called to action for Graffiti Removal Day 2021

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

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Council reminds residents to be vigilant about water safety

P

enrith City Council is urging residents to be safe around bodies of water following a spate of drownings.

Alarming figures compiled by Royal Life Saving Australia reveal there have already been 73 drowning deaths across the country this summer – 24 of those in NSW. This does not include the injuries or many near drownings in recent weeks, which has seen struggling swimmers pulled from pools, beaches and other waterways.

That is why Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM is reminding the community to be vigilant, especially those who have young children.

“We live in a beautiful part of the world, with the Nepean River, Hawkesbury River, Bents Basin as well as Ripples Leisure Centre pools on our doorstep - and many people in our City are fortunate to have a backyard pool, which are all great options for cooling off on hot days,” Cr McKeown said.

“Unfortunately, a bit of complacency when it comes to safety near water can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so we must always consider the fundamentals of water safety.

“Remember the simple things – do not swim alone, look out for signage at

public pools and rivers, be cautious at unfamiliar swimming spots, never dive in head first, wear life jackets when boating, ensure pool gates and fences are locked, and most importantly supervise children at all times.

“It’s better to be safe than sorry. That way, everyone can enjoy a refreshing dip with friends or family without disaster striking.”

Council is also reiterating its pool safety messaging, with fixed and inflatable swimming pools being the

leading cause of drownings among children under the age of five.

Ripples’ Penrith and St Marys centres offer regular, skill based Learn to Swim classes for babies 4 months old through to adults, to help people of all ages grow their confidence in the water.

Residents must obtain development consent for pools and spas holding 2,000L or more of water, and any pool holding a depth of 30cm of water must be surrounded by a compliant fence.

Council offers home inspections to ensure pools, spas and fences are compliant and can issue a Certificate of Compliance which is valid for three years.

Council has a zero-tolerance compliance campaign and will issue $550 fines on the spot if a pool gate is found open or there is an unfenced portable or inflatable pool.

Visit ripplesnsw.com.au/learn-toswim and penrith.city/pools to find out more.

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atients in Nepean/ Blue Mountains will now have improved access to lifesaving medical treatment with the addition of one of the world’s most advanced aeromedical helicopters to CareFlight’s fleet.

The helicopter was officially launched when it landed for a public unveiling at the Sydney Opera House recently.

The Airbus H145 joins CareFlight’s Rapid Response Helicopter service which reaches patients across greater Sydney, Nepean/Blue Mountains and the Central Coast.

Since 2017, CareFlight has been tasked to respond to more than 1,300 medical incidents, 200 of which were to help people in the Nepean/Blue Mountains region.

“As part of our funding agreement with NSW Health, CareFlight committed to upgrading our helicopter capability,” explains CareFlight CEO, Mick Frewen.

“This helicopter is internationally recognised to be one of the safest and most advanced aeromedical helicopters in the world. This will save lives and deliver an outstanding aeromedical service to the community.

“CareFlight was founded on innovation and we continue to strive

to push ourselves, and the service, to ensure we get to patients fast so our doctors and NSW Ambulance intensive care paramedics can start life-saving clinical interventions as soon as they arrive at the scene,” he said.

The H145, the first aeromedical aircraft of its kind in Australia, can be airborne within three minutes of activation and with a flight speed of up to 250km/hr, can reach patients in Sydney, Blue Mountains and Central Coast within 15 minutes.

“We know the sooner we reach patients and start clinical

interventions, the better the outcome for patients,” said CareFlight’s National Medical Director, Dr Toby Fogg.

“CareFlight flies our specialist doctor and NSW Ambulance intensive care paramedic to the scene of trauma so they can immediately assess and commence clinical treatment. For patients who are critically injured or ill we know this gives patients the best chance of survival, and with this new helicopter online, we will be able to arrive and commence treatment sooner.”

Reaching patients rapidly is further

enhanced by H145’s safety features which allows it to land on small and uneven landing sites, as close to the incident as possible. These safety features include a small diameter high main rotor and a fully enclosed Fenestron tail rotor, which together contribute to its ability to land safely in small spaces. The rear clamshell doors allow for faster loading and unloading of patients saving critical minutes, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The cabin is designed to mimic the internal space of a road ambulance and is specially configured with the most up-to-date medical equipment including a mobile intensive care unit and advanced radio and intercom systems which allows patients to be closely monitored throughout their transportation.

The aircraft can carry a crew of three highly skilled and experienced medical staff and one patient but can also be reconfigured to carry two patients and two medical staff if required.

CareFlight’s Rapid Response Helicopter is tasked directly by NSW Ambulance for 250-300 missions a year covering Greater Sydney, Central Coast and Blue Mountains regions.

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

CareFlight’s new world-class helicopter arrives

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

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Space sector ready to launch T he Morrison Government has announced the first priority sector grants in the space industry, under the $1.3 billion Modern Manufacturing Initiative, are now open.

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh said this is exciting news for an emerging industry in Western Sydney.

“The space industry in Western Sydney is ready to launch with new funding opportunities now open,” said Ms McIntosh.

“In Lindsay, we have over 615 manufacturing businesses employing over 6,000 people in fields including fabricated metal products, equipment and machinery manufacturing – areas which are crucial to the development of our national space sector.

“There is no limit to the potential of our local manufacturers, and I encourage them to access the funding opportunities we are delivering to help them scale up, expand, and create more jobs.

“From technology helping

Melissa McIntosh speaking with Professor Alan Duffy, Director of Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University

emergency workers plan for bushfires and farmers manage their crops, to advances in automation, robotics, engineering and satellite technology, our investments in space will result in new applications that will improve our lives here on Earth.

The Modern Manufacturing Initiative is the centrepiece of the Morrison Government’s Modern Manufacturing Strategy, which outlines six priority

Melissa McIntosh with Federal Minister for Health & Aged Care Greg Hunt MP, a member of the Lindsay Advance Manufacturing Taskforce

areas for Australian manufacturing that builds on areas of advantage and strategic importance.

This includes resources technology and critical minerals processing, food and beverage, medical products, recycling and clean energy, defence, and space.

“We have the ability to play a key role in the development of our space sector.

Our Government is looking ahead,

setting out a ten year roadmap with the industry to inform our long-term strategy to grow the space industry and create more jobs,” said Ms McIntosh.

Targeted funding to help businesses in priority sectors become more competitive and scale up is currently being rolled out.

For more information or to register to receive updates go to: www.industry. gov.au/manufacturing

Initial towns, suburbs and hubs for covid-19 vaccine Residents in Lindsay will be amongst the first in Australia to receive a COVID-19 vaccination from next week.

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh said, as part of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program, people in priority groups who are most at risk and who need protection the most – will receive a vaccine first.

“Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Australian Government has been extremely focused on ensuring our nation has access to safe and effective vaccines. We are now ready to begin the rollout,” said Ms McIntosh.

“From next week, some of our most essential workers and vulnerable Australians in Penrith

will be vaccinated, with more of our community to follow in the coming weeks and months.”

“The initial priority groups will include aged care and disability care residents and workers, frontline healthcare workers, and quarantine and border workers.”

“The rollout will begin with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, and following the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) on Tuesday, will include the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine from early March.”

Frontline healthcare workers and quarantine and border workers will receive the vaccine through Pfizer hubs run by states and territories. In addition, a Commonwealth led inreach vaccination workforce will

ensure residential aged care and disability care residents and staff receive their vaccines.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt reaffirmed that Australia’s vaccine strategy is strong and on schedule.

“Australia will begin rolling out the COVID-19 Vaccination program from next week,” Minister Hunt said.

“This week the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine has arrived in the country and the TGA has approved the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine. These are two outstanding vaccines that will be available to people in Australia free of charge.”

“Our frontline border and quarantine workers, and people living and working in residential aged and disability care facilities will be the first

to receive their vaccines,” Minister Hunt said.

“The vaccination program will save and protect lives. Both of our vaccines will prevent serious illness. That is our primary goal.”

Vaccines will be available across additional settings including GP clinic and community pharmacy. The staged rollout of COVID-19 vaccines is guided by Australia’s COVID-19 Vaccine National Rollout Strategy.

The aim of the vaccination program is to save and protect lives. To keep people out of intensive care and off ventilators. Both vaccines approved for use in Australia do that very well.

Protecting people from serious illness is, and must, be the first priority Find out more about the rollout and priority groups at: aus.gov.au

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he Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District reached a major milestone this week in their response to the COVID-19 pandemic with the first of our frontline workers receiving their vaccination against the disease.

NBMLHD Director of Public Health, Dr Victor Carey says the extra layer of protection the vaccine provides along with existing prevention strategies will help to prevent people from getting seriously ill.

“Getting vaccinated is one of the best protections against this virus. It is safe, effective and free and will help us to live our everyday lives more freely,” says Dr Carey.

“The vaccine has been reviewed to meet standards set out by leading medical and regulatory authorities across the world including Australia’s own Therapeutic Goods

Administration.”

COVID-19 vaccination is being rolled out in phases.

The first stage of the rollout is for

those most at risk including health, aged and disability care workers, aged care residents and hotel quarantine workers.

Among the first staff within NBMLHD to be vaccinated is Virginia Linnegar from Nepean Hospital’s Emergency Department. Virginia is eager to help return everyone’s lives to the way they were before COVID. “I’m taking this vaccine for my patients, my family and my friends. As a health care worker I want to protect people from getting seriously ill and by getting vaccinated I’m helping fight this deadly disease,” says Virginia.

“I know the vaccine is a big step to control COVID, but it’s still only one step. I’m going to continue to do what I’ve been doing for the past 13 months - follow the health advice and keep the community safe.”

Everyone in Australia will have access to COVID-19 vaccines and will be offered a free vaccine when it is their turn.

For more information, visit COVID-19 vaccination.

Rolls-Royce Owners Club of Australia visit the Nepean

T

he Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Australia (RROCA) were visitors to the Nepean District on Wednesday 24th February, visiting Warragamba Dam for a quick tour before adjourning for lunch at the Wallacia Hotel.

Former NSW Branch President Kim Stapleton was able to provide a wealth of information on the club, as follows.

The R-R Club was formed in Sydney on 20 June 1956 with 19 Foundation members. In the following years interested enthusiasts for groups in the various States and Territories sought membership of the RROCA. 1957 Victoria Branch formed 1958 South Australia Branch formed 1965 West Australia Branch formed 1969 Queensland Branch formed 1982 Australian Capital Territory Branch formed.

The oldest car in the R-R Club is a 1909 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, Chassis No. 1122 and it resides in Queensland and is in more or less regular use.

The first Rolls-Royce to come

Photos by Noel Rowsell The RROCA were in the Nepean District on Wednesday 24th February.

into Australia was a 4-cylinder 20hp Chassis No. 40509 and that vehicle survives today in England, remarkably intact and authentic.

There are over 1,000 active members in the R-R Club throughout Australia and overseas. NSW has the largest number of members with Victoria a very close second.

There are over 1,200 cars in the

Australian Club, spanning the years of 1909 to 2017 and made up of: 41 Rolls-Royce models and 39 Bentley models represented within the Club, as at the end of 2020.

“We are fortunate in NSW to have surviving and still active as Club members 2 of the Foundation members with receipts Nos 1 & 2,” said Mr Stapleton.

“We have an active Club with regular monthly events and meetings (dampened somewhat by COVID).

The Club holds an annual Federal Rally, which each Branch takes a turn at hosting. These rallies are a wonderful opportunity to get together with friends from around the country and many from overseas. They also present us with a great capability to fund-raise for charity, usually one that is local to the area where the rally is held. Sadly, last year’s rally had to be cancelled but we are hopeful of holding a reduced rally this year in Geelong.”

Mr Stapleton also provided a Bibliography for some of the information supplied above.

Articles/Books/Reports Clarke, T.C. Rolls-Royce and Bentley in the Sunburnt Country (The Sir Henry Royce Foundation Australia, 1st ed, 1999).

Neely, D.R. Rolls-Royce and Bentley in the Rear-view Mirror (The Sir Henry Royce Foundation Australia, 1st ed, 2004).

Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

First nbmlhd staff receive covid-19 vaccination

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

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Greencross Vets celebrates 25 years anniversary

By Noel Rowsell

G

reencross V e ts celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year, having begun operations as Coreen Avenue Vets, a one Veterinarian and one Nurse practice in 1996.

The aim of the practice was to provide high-quality medical and surgical facilities for pets, with a commitment to clients and the community.

25 years on, Coreen Avenue Vets (now Greencross) has 10 Veterinarians, 20 nursing staff, 3 receptions and 1 Practice Manager and a well-deserved award-winning reputation.

In 2004, Coreen Avenue Vets was awarded its first Local Business Award and since then, has won 10 x Local Business Awards (including the Gold Penrith Local Business of the Year in 2017), 1 x State Business Award, 3 x Australian Champion Business Awards, 1 x Youth of the Year Award, awarded Veterinary Practice of Excellence Award in 2006.

In 2008 due to client demand and a point of difference, Coreen Avenue Vets opened Western Sydney Cat Hospital, to provide exclusive care ‘for our feline friends’ in a cat-only facility.

The clinic has recently been recognised as a gold standard

Dr Erin Short, Kellie Tickner (Practice Manager), Dr Sandy Gale.

Photo by Noel Rowsell

accredited Cat Friendly Clinic.

In 2013 the Clinic was expanded to provide further services (cat boarding, hydro-baths, an indoor park for puppy preschool classes, office space & staff amenities) In 2018, Coreen Avenue Vets joined the Greencross Vets family to better meet the needs of Pets in the Penrith community and in 2021, the local practice is celebrating 25 years of caring for the pets of Penrith.

“We are most proud of our connection to the Penrith community and making a difference in the lives of pets and their parents,” said Practice Manager Kellie Tickner.

“We have undergone consistent growth and change over the years to meet the needs of our expanding community. We are unique in that there is no one-size-fits-all way of doing things. We aim to go that extra mile, connect with people and

treat every client on their individual needs.”

“A vital part of our business is our community engagement. We are aware that working in the community is vital not only for survival and growth but to ensure that the clinic assists with the delivery of services for the ‘greater good’,” said Kellie.

“We do not see profit as the sole goal of our business. It is our responsibility to set aside a part of our profits, and our time to the welfare of pets in our community.

Kellie has been actively involved in community projects in the Penrith community for over 15 years.

This has included implementing the highly successful Parvo-Free-Penrith program since 2015. Over the last 5 years this program has offered 1,600 free health checks and vaccinations in an attempt to eradicate the deadly Parvovirus disease from our suburbs.

“We have seen a significant decline in Parvovirus cases due to this program,” said Kellie.

“Other community programs include a Paw-It-Forward program to assist people in lower income families with routine health care for their pet and a Happy Pets program for pets at risk in domestic violence situations.”

“The overall success of our business is our amazing team of veterinarians and nurses. We believe that we have fostered a unique family that is made up of our team, our pets, our pet parents and our community.”

Parvovirus checkup time for your dog

W

ith many families having been isolated during COVID, we are mindful that their dogs may have missed their annual vaccination against Parvovirus. With positive cases in surrounding suburbs in the past few months, we are encouraging all dog owners to check that their dog is up to date with their vaccinations.

Parvovirus is a deadly, highly infectious viral disease that affects dogs. The virus is shed from infected dogs in their saliva, vomit and faeces. It is extremely hardy and can resist most household disinfectants and survive in soil. It can be transported on shoes, clothes, flying insects and tyres (these kinds of transport are called fomites).

Dogs become infected when there is oral exposure to the virus in faeces, soil and fomites and they will be affected within 3-7 days of exposure.

Clinical signs of infection are Inappetence (lack of appetite), vomiting and haemorrhagic diarrhoea.

The virus causes sloughing of the intestinal lining and attacks the immune system. Affected dogs have severe abdominal pain; they become dehydrated and will often develop complications like pneumonia and sepsis. Dogs without treatment normally die rapidly. To detect parvovirus infection a simple test that takes only minutes to perform is available.

There is no way of killing the virus once dogs are affected. Treatment is intensive and aims to support

the body until the virus is fought off by the dog’s own immune system. Patients require treatment in isolation with IV fluids, antibiotics, anti-nausea medications and pain relief. They often need plasma transfusions to help replace proteins lost from the gut. Transfusions also offer some antibodies from the donor. Recovery depends on the strength of the dog’s immunity and if complications can be successfully treated. Most dogs will recover with treatment but it can be lengthy and expensive, some dogs despite treatment sadly still die. Dogs will continue to shed the virus 2-3 weeks after recovery.

The best protection from parvovirus is vaccination.

Puppies require a series of vaccinations, normally three. Adult dogs require boosters to maintain their immunity. There are vaccinations that offer either 1 or 3 years of protection. Most dogs that are affected are either unvaccinated with no immunity or not fully vaccinated with only partial immunity. Commonly cases are seen in puppies being exposed while they are still receiving their vaccination course and adult dogs that miss their booster vaccinations. Isolating dogs reduces exposure risk but due to the way parvovirus is spread, isolation alone is not guaranteed to fully protect your dog.

Our mission for the past five years has been to have the Penrith Region free from Parvovirus by the year 2020. Since 2015, Greencross Vets Coreen Ave has provided over 1600 free health checks and vaccinations to the pets of Penrith in an effort to eradicate this disease. As with human diseases, the more animals in a population that are protected, the more effectively it reduces the spread of the disease and helps protect those most vulnerable to infection.

If your dog has not been vaccinated in the last 12 months, we would recommend a visit to your veterinarian. Please call Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 0247313055 to find out how to protect your dog from this deadly disease.

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

local news

V

ulnerable residents will be able to seek shelter during heatwaves through a network of ‘heat refuges’ in an Australian-first trial in Blacktown City.

Blacktown City Council has approved the trial of ‘heat refuges’ – a network of Council and communityrun air-conditioned venues where residents can go and be provided for during a significant heatwave event.

Residents vulnerable to extreme heat include the elderly, people living with disability or chronic illnesses, and young children who do not have access to air conditioning.

The network will initially include Council-owned venues (Lethbridge Park Community Centre, Tregear Community Centre, Whalan Community Centre, and Oakhurst Neighbourhood Centre) and community resources such as Blacktown Workers Club and Bidwill Uniting Church.

The network will only be activated when the Bureau of Meteorology issues a ‘severe’ or ‘extreme’ heatwave warning.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said the heat refuge trial was part of Council’s ongoing strategy to counter the effects of climate change.

“Sydney overall averages 10 days a year where temperatures are above 35 degrees whereas Western Sydney averages 10 to 20 days a year of temperatures above 35 degrees,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“That figure is predicted to rise to between 15 to 30 extremely hot days by 2039 – this is a very concerning figure.

“The goal of our heat refuge strategy is to make sure the most vulnerable members of our community have a safe, local place they can go to on days of

extreme heat.”

Council plans to trial the heat refuge strategy on a small scale during the next heatwave and then add more venues if there is a demand within our community.

Council was given grant funding of $54,500 by Resilience NSW through the Community Resilience Innovation Program to develop its heat refuge strategy.

During a heatwave, the not-for-profit organisation Active Care Network will transport clients to the venues, while the trial also involves organisations including Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, and Settlement Services International.

“We are so fortunate to have a network of community stakeholders and venues joining Council

in this important trial, and we thank them for their generosity and vision,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Blacktown City Council has been a leader in urban environmental planning for decades and this trial is just one aspect of our ongoing commitment to addressing the many impacts of climate change on our community.”

In February 2020, Council acknowledged a climate emergency requiring immediate action by all levels of government, and committed to a target of 100% renewable electricity for Council operations by 2025.

Council also has a number of large-scale community tree planting programs aimed at reducing urban heat and is currently trialling heat reduced pavement reconstruction.

Penrith to be better prepared for flooding Penrith will be better prepared for future flood events after the announcement of over $358,000 dollars for two projects as part of an additional $2.34 million in funding to assist local councils understand and manage the risk posed by floods.

More than eight local councils including Penrith City Council will benefit from a funding boost as part of the Floodplain Grants Scheme, one of a suite of programs under the Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said protecting our local community

from disaster is of utmost importance.

“Our community knows how devastating a flood event can be, and as we deal with the current La Niña event it is crucial we continue to be as prepared as possible,” Stuart Ayres said.

“This funding will mean the areas that are most at risk from flooding are also the most prepared and is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to the safety and resilience of our State when facing natural disasters.”

Minister for Police and Emergency

Services David Elliott highlighted the importance of this investment in helping communities across metropolitan Sydney and regional NSW be more resilient to natural disasters and emergencies.

“This funding will help empower local councils to understand, manage and minimise some of the risks and devastation in their communities associated with flooding events,” Mr Elliott said.

“Our State has already seen significant flooding events this year, so it is critical we ensure local

communities have all the support they need to better prepare for flooding – making them stronger and more resilient.”

Projects supported through this funding range from flood studies through to the construction of flood mitigation infrastructure such as detention basins, levees, crossings, floodgates and flood warning systems.

You can find a full list of Floodplain Grants Scheme (FGS) projects here.

Applications for the next round of funding are open and will close of Thursday 18 March 2021

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Refuges to provide shelter during heatwaves

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

14

local news

Museum of Fire History competition

By Museum of Fire Curatorial Team

T

he Museum of Fire, Penrith is excited to be hosting our first ever history competition!

Following the success of our art competition for primary school students, we are offering this history competition exclusively to high school students!

To coincide with the National Trust’s Heritage Festival in May, the Museum will be unveiling a brandnew exhibition titled ‘Our Heritage’.

As part of this exhibition, we want to feature the voices of the future and this is where the competition comes in.

We are asking the voices of the future to help our visitors understand why places like our Museum are important.

In 50-300 words we want you to explain why places like the Museum of Fire and our heritage-listed building will be needed in the future.

We want to hear what the next generation of heritage keepers, museum curators and historians think.

Your text can take any form from poem and limerick to a quickfire essay or summary - get creative.

Why should students enter?

Shortlisted entries will be featured as part of our new exhibition and there are some great prizes on offer. Entries close 31 March 2021.

Visit our website for more information https://www.museumoffire.net/2021historycompetition To help promote history and foster

students interest, the Museum is giving local high schools the opportunity to have one of the Museum’s senior heritage staff come and speak with students. This could be for your history club, senior history students or a general assembly.

To find out more and to check

availability for this offer, please call the Museum 02 4731 3000.

We look forward to hearing from you and hope we can help your school’s history department in promoting a love of history amongst your students.

For inquiries please direct all emails to mail@museumoffire.com.au

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estrictions will be eased from 12.01am Friday, 26 February across Greater Sydney and NSW: • 50 visitors will now be allowed in the home; • 30 people allowed to dance at weddings, with rotation on and off the dance floor; • Increased class limits for gyms to 50 people (currently 30) subject to the 4sqm rule; • Number of performers singing indoors increased to 30 (currently 5) subject to physical distancing requirements; • Singing by congregants allowed in places of worship if masks are worn and subject to one person per 4sqm (currently no congregant singing allowed, with one per 2sqm permitted in places of worship); • Increase capacity for cinemas to 100 per cent; and • If current trends continue, drinking while standing up at indoor venues will be allowed in three weeks’ time (from Wednesday, 17 March).

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the easing of restrictions was due to the support of the NSW community.

“With the rollout of the vaccine now underway, and no new locally acquired cases in NSW, we are able to make further changes towards a new ‘COVID normal’,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I thank the community for following the health advice to keep the virus at bay. However, we cannot become complacent.”

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said today’s announcement was another step forward for NSW. “Each time we are able to further ease restrictions

it’s another shot of confidence for the NSW economy,” Mr Perrottet said.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said NSW has come a long way since the virus arrived here and we should be proud of the position we are in.

“This week NSW started rolling out the vaccine across the state and now we are further easing restrictions, which is a fantastic achievement,” Mr Hazzard said.

Dr Chant said while household gathering restrictions have been eased, people are urged to

remember COVID-19 can be transmitted more easily in crowded indoor settings.

“Don’t attend these types of events if you have COVID-19 symptoms – instead get tested immediately and self-isolate. If holding these gatherings, please use outdoor settings and well ventilated spaces where available and avoid overcrowding to reduce the risk of COVID transmission,” Dr Chant said.

For the latest information and COVID-19 testing sites please visit: www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

$6 million boost for our visitor economy

T

he NSW Government is giving the State’s visitor economy a $6 million boost through funding and marketing programs to turbocharge Sydney and regional economies and create more jobs.

Three funding streams to support regional businesses engaged in the visitor economy are now open, while an expanded multi-channel tourism campaign profiling Greater Sydney includes a new television commercial launched over the weekend during the Australian Open.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said these activities, led by Destination NSW, would help position the NSW visitor economy for recovery and long-term growth.

“NSW is open for business and welcoming visitors, and business owners and entrepreneurs are hungry for growth and new opportunities – these programs will help visitor economy stakeholders to achieve just that,” Mr Ayres said.

“We are confident our $2.5 million investment in the marketing campaign, ‘Sydney Love It Like You Mean It’ will complement other Government initiatives such as Sunset Piazza and Dine & Discover to restore vibrancy to Greater Sydney and be a welcome boost to get businesses back on track.

“The campaign has generated more than 42,000 leads to visitor economy businesses since launching late last year. Now we’re extending through to April, calling on Sydneysiders to book a multi-day staycation, enjoy a meal, a performance or retail therapy, and to visit an attraction to get city tills ringing again.

“We are also supporting the regions with $3.5 million to kick-start investment in attractions and visitor infrastructure, refresh existing tourism products and secure or create new business event

opportunities.”

The $6 million NSW Government visitor economy initiatives are: • Tourism Product Development Fund ($3 million – closes 31 March) o Stream 1 - Refresh and Renew Fund: offering $10,000 grants to regional tourism operators to update their product or experience o Stream 2 - Experience Enhancement Fund: provides between $50,000 and $150,000 in matched funding to assist operators upgrade existing accommodation to improve their star rating, upgrade business and leisure event venues and facilities, repurpose existing infrastructure to provide new facilities or experiences not currently

available within the destination, or to create new tourism attractions or experiences • Regional Business Event Development Fund ($500,000 – closes 30 April): grants of up to $30,000 to create, attract and support business events for regional NSW, and to motivate business event owners to incorporate regional NSW in their plans • ‘Sydney Love It Like You Mean It’ campaign ($2.5 million): full program includes radio, billboards, digital and social advertising promoting experiences and attractions across Greater Sydney.

Television commercial airing from 14 February.

For information about the funding programs and to apply, visit www.destinationnsw.com.au.

Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Covid-19 restrictions eased R

15

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

16

A very special IWD event – Women Out West!

P

enrith Performing & Visual Arts and Women with Altitude are delighted to announce a very special event for International Women’s Day - Women Out West! Responding to community feedback, PP&VA along with WWA will be presenting two very important panel discussions ‘Rebuilding after Domestic Violence’ and ‘Women at Work’.

Their aim is to bring people together to listen and learn and to be inspired and influenced, inviting the community to be part of the continuing advocacy for safety, equality, diversity and growth.

A panel of distinguished experts from a variety of backgrounds will lend their voices to these significant topics by sharing their thoughts and experiences: • Chandu Bickford, writer, speaker, business coach and domestic violence survivor • Cr Tricia Hitchen, Haven Women’s Shelter Board member and Deputy Mayor Penrith

www.thejoan.com.au

• Alison McLaren, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts Chairperson • Trish Doyle MP, Member of the Legislative Assembly Member for Blue Mountains, Shadow Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Presenter: Andrea Turner-Boys, speaker, business coach/mentor, CEO & Founder WWA Panel facilitator: Lisa Finn Powell, journalist, author, speaker, performer, Chief Editor Brave Magazine and PR Coordinator, PP&VA Sunday 7 March, 3:30 – 6:30pm, Outside at Penrith Regional Gallery, enter near café area. Please note café will be closed.

Tickets: Standard $30 and Concession $25. Both prices include soft drink and snack on arrival. A string quartet from Penrith Symphony Orchestra will perform as part of this event. www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au/events/women-out-west/

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

T

he residents of our district were mostly related due to nonmigration. Because of this, they were always ready to “go the extra mile” when someone fell on hard times, be it financial hardship, injury or death. The “milk of human kindness” amongst those folks who had the means, be it money, food or clothing were quick to rally around, ready to organise a fete, a concert, a sporting activity or a charity drive with whatever was needed in aid of those poor unfortunate residents. In 1894 there was a “First Class Concert” given in aid of funds at the Temperance Hall to purchase an artificial arm for the son of Thomas Richard and Mary Ann Ransley (Nee: Thomson) of Llandilo.

James Walter had his wrist fractured due to the accidental discharge of a gun that he was loading. James was out shooting with a double-barrelled muzzle loader gun and about to reload it when he first capped the gun then proceeded to load. He had already loaded one barrel, placing the butt of the weapon on a stump and commenced to load the second barrel when the gun slipped, and the hammer of the loaded barrel caught and went off. The whole charge entered his right wrist just near his hand and travelled through to the other side about three inches higher up and shattered the bones as it went. Fortunately, none of the shot entered his body. His two uncles William and Edward Ransley put him into a sulky as quickly as possible and took him to Dr Scott. When they reached the Doctor’s surgery an examination showed that amputation of James’ arm was necessary, and they moved to the Nepean Cottage Hospital where he was assisted by Dr Brady and successfully amputated the arm about three inches below the elbow. James, although suffering a good deal of pain did eventually recover. The Concert programme was a good one and the various singers deserved the greatest praise, each and every one doing their best. Mr R Tweedy was the organiser and certainly deserved every credit for his exertions in getting together all of the local talent. In order to help swell the proceeds, the Sons and Daughters of Temperance generously donated half-a-sovereign towards the funds. The locals who participated were:- Mr F Howarth and his two sons (instrumental), Jack Herford, Miss McLachlan, Mr J Tedder, Mr S Long, Mr C Dargin, Mr O Nicole, Harry Walton, Mr J Hamblin, Miss Cahill with Messrs Walton and Kay and scholars who attended the Penrith Superior Public School (all singers) brought the entertainment to a close. Miss Peak, Percy Herford and Mr S Long helped with the music. It wasn’t long before another accident happened in 1895, this time it was Edward Ransley, another son of Thomas. Edward was driving in cows when he picked up a stick to throw at one animal that was inclined to break away, but the stick struck a tree and rebounded and struck him fair in the right eye, bursting the optic. He was brought to Dr Pym who dressed the wound and did what he could to allay Edward’s sufferings. The next morning, he was taken to Sydney where he progressed favourably. This poor Ransley family had been extremely unfortunate because as a young man their father Thomas was on his way home when he threw a stick at a possum that rebounded and caught him in the right eye that had to be removed, resulting in a glass eye that Tom only used for a short time.

In 1913 James Walter Ransley, the same son who lost his right arm in a gun accident in 1894 was engaged in poultry farming at Llandilo where he was doing well. He was kicked by a horse and died at the Nepean Cottage Hospital aged 32. He was well known as the one-arm bicycle rider, having ridden in the long-distance races from Goulburn to Sydney where he secured third place. Along with other road racers he always received a splendid reception as he was a first-class rider and was better

 Panthers Stadium in front of Ransley Street.

19 Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Concert Aid

NEPEAN HISTORY

than some who had the use of both arms. At the inquest by the Coroner Arthur Judges, Thomas, his father stated that “he had a horse bad with colic and thought to exercise it after dosing. James said to me to “go and get your dinner and I will keep the mare moving until you come back, and I can have mine later”. I turned away with the intention of doing as he said and had gone about 25 yards when I heard a moan and on looking around my son said, ‘I am kicked in the stomach” and I was with him in a moment when he said, ‘It’s all over with me father”. His mother and sisters ran out and between us we got him inside, undressed him and put him to bed, putting on hot flannels to ease the pain. I went for aid to Mr Stratford and Mr Emmett who came and assisted in every way that could be suggested until the arrival of Dr Higgins. The doctor examined him and said the case was profoundly serious and that his removal to the Nepean Cottage Hospital was absolutely necessary if an operation was to be performed. The doctor gave very little hope of his recovery.

We brought him to the hospital as comfortably as we could. He bore the journey well and received immediate attention at the institution. I left the hospital at 10 pm and came back next morning remaining until after the operation. He appeared to make a splendid rally and we saw him regain consciousness. His brother remained at the hospital in case of emergency while I went home being anxious about my wife who was completely prostrate by the shock she had received. I intended to come back later at 8 pm. I got word via St Marys that he had died an hour earlier. Dr Higgins stated that “I saw James Walter Ransley at his father’s residence at Llandilo and he was suffering very acutely from shock and was in great pain. Next morning the abdomen was opened at the hospital and the damage was repaired as far as possible, but his condition was hopeless from the outset and he never improved. There were not any marks on the abdominal wall and a tear in the intestine must have been caused by pressure against the ends of the lower ribs and death was probably due to shock,” which was the Coroner’s finding.

His life was assured by the AMP 8ociety and he possessed 65 acres of land at Llandilo and some money. There was a very large funeral, and his remains were interred in the Church of England portion of the General Cemetery at Kingswood. Thomas and Mary Ann had twelve children. Thomas died in 1937, Mary died in 1949 and both are buried in the General Cemetery at Kingswood. The Ransley family are highly respected in the area with a Penrith street named after them.

Sources: - Nepean Times, Trove, Ancestry, BDM online, Family Search (Mormon website).

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

20

SPORT

Better local sport facilities for more local families

F

ederal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh MP joined local sports clubs to announce the completion of upgrades to sporting fields in Lindsay at the Myrtle Road Playing Fields and the Kingsway.

“We have delivered $85,956 to improve the playing surfaces and install lighting,” said Ms McIntosh.

“For local sports clubs, schools and families, upgrades like these make a huge difference to events and community activities. Surface upgrades are essential for our local teams to have a high quality field and the lighting will enhance safety.

“Having these local facilities encourages healthy, active living for more local kids and families.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s $85,956 investment in sporting infrastructure would provide long term benefits to the City of Penrith.

“This investment will directly benefit St Marys Convent Football Club, Claremont Meadows Public school as well as local junior and senior cricket clubs who are all regular users of the fields,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“By supporting multiple jobs in

construction and creating many ongoing positions following completion, in addition to using local businesses and supplies, this project will help bring prosperity to Claremont Meadows for many years to come.”

This project was fully funded by the Federal Government under the Community Developments Grants Programme.

Ms McIntosh and Councillor McKeown also visited the Kingsway sporting fields to see the successful

completion of floodlights.

“We’re investing $500,000 in the Kingsway to make sure more people in our community can get involved in exciting sports like Touch Football and Oztag, and get out on the fields, day or night,” said Ms McIntosh.

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SPORT

D

rummond Golf Penrith is the home of ‘Big Swing Golf’ with five sport simulators offering action across multiple sports.

The ‘Big Swing Golf’ simulator has been at the Penrith store for 5 years and owners Rod Newell, Nathan Hooker, Natasha Hemms and Westley Rudel have now updated to the latest Tiger Woods Widescreen MultiSport simulator, which offers an extraordinary amount of technical information to a player.

In regards to Golf, the new simulator has a more extensive advice panel showing ball speed, trajectory, carry, total distance, swing variance and much, much more.

Other sports available on all 5 simulators include Soccer, Baseball, Basketball, Hockey, Rugby, Bocce, Cricket, Lacrosse, NFL and Dodgeball, with multiple variants of games / challenges within each sport.

The simulators are all indoors in airconditioned comfort, offering players the opportunity to train, play or just have fun inside in any weather, from scorching summer days to miserable wet, windy winter conditions.

96 golf courses are currently offered in the Golf simulator, with the opportunity to play each course in conditions ranging from ideal to severely challenging, depending upon the skill level of the player or the need to just beat your mate(s) on any terrain.

All equipment is supplied for all of the sports on offer, or you are welcome to bring your own equipment, should you wish to narrow down or fine tune the capabilities of each club or a ball comparison, for example, in Golf.

Safety is at a premium, with only

LET’S PLAY!

Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

Big Swing Golf

21

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

one player allowed on a simulator at a time (apart from Dodge Ball).

Each simulator is hosted by a staff member of ‘Big Swing Golf’ but the player(s) gets to choose the weather conditions, venue and other factors involved with each individual sport.

Whilst many of the district’s leading golf players regularly use the event to fine tune their individual game, other local sporting identities also use the venue either to practice at their own sport, cross-train or simply to let their hair down and have some fun.

Lessons on the simulators are available from Teaching Professionals Natasha Hemms (a former player on the US LPGA Tour) and former Glenmore Heritage Valley GC Head Professional Westley Rudel.

‘Big Swing Golf’ is a licensed venue and hosts groups of all ages and

sizes, from children’s birthday parties to adult groups / parties.

The cost of $20 per half hour is attractive and highly competitive against outdoor sports, with an additional $5 per player if playing on the same simulator (maximum of 4 usually per simulator).

Children under 12 accompanying a paying adult play for free (one child

per paying adult).

Children’s parties are $35 per head for 2 hours unlimited sports, including food.

Enquiries can be addressed to ‘Big Swing Golf’ through the website www.bigswinggolf.com.au, Facebook ‘bigswinggolfpenrith’ or on Instagram #bigswinggolf_penrith or by phone on 02 4721 1296.

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Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

22

local news

Tense finish for local clubs in Major Pennants

By Noel Rowsell

W

ith just 2 rounds left to play in the Golf NSW Major Pennant competition, 5 local clubs are within sight of winning their respective Sections but it promises to be a close finish in each.

Newly-promoted Twin Creeks Golf & CC have excelled in their first year in the premier division 1, remaining undefeated after 4 rounds and facing leaders St Michaels GC on both the 28th February and 7th March, in matches which will decide the Section winner.

Due to their two somewhat unlucky draws earlier in the season, Twin Creeks need to defeat St Michaels both at home and away to secure a fairy-tale Section title in their debut year.

If Twin Creeks manage to defeat St Michaels away this weekend, the final round of the season promises to be a huge drawcard at Twin Creeks on 7th March.

In Division 2, Stonecutters Ridge GC are sitting undefeated at the top of Section 3 with 2 wins and 2 draws and face another local club Glenmore Heritage Valley GC on 28th Feb and 7th March.

Matt Devries (Twin Creeks), Ryan Cadle (Stonecutters) and Coby Carruthers (Dunheved) are all undefeated after 4 rounds of Major Pennants. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Although sitting in 4th spot on 1 win, 1 draw and 1 loss, Glenmore can still finish in first spot, if they win both games against Stonecutters and Cromer and Bankstown split their games at 1-apiece.

Stonecutters appear to be in the box seat but need to be focused on their last 2 weekends to capture the Section title.

In Division 3, Dunheved GC is locked together at the top of Section 3 with Massey Park and the next two

rounds against Wakehurst GC are crucial.

The Dunheved team is in form and should go a long way to capturing the Section title with 2 big wins against Wakehurst, both at home on 28th Feb and away on 7th March.

In Division 4, Leonay GC is at the top of the Section but all 4 teams in the Section have a 2 win, 2 loss, 0 draws record.

Leonay need to defeat Cammeray at home this Sunday, then maintain that

winning form in Sydney the following weekend to have a strong claim at winning the Section.

In Division 5, Wallacia CC is in 2nd spot behind leaders Riverside Oaks GC but 2 wins over Barnwell Park GC in the next 2 rounds would secure the Section title.

Wallacia are away to Barnwell Park this Sunday, then should also draw a good home crowd on 7th March if they have a chance at winning the Section.

NSW Harness Racing Drivers heading to the Australian Female Drivers Championship

By Noel Rowsell

A

shley Hart and Stephanie Lippiatt (pictured) have been selected to represent NSW at the upcoming ‘Australian Female Drivers Championship’ at Launceston, Tasmania on March 21.

It will be the first time Hart and Lippiatt will wear the NSW colours, a privilege they are both looking forward to.

“I’m really excited to represent my state for the first time and I’m honoured to be selected,” said Ashley.

“I knew the Championship is held annually so tried to travel to as many tracks I could last season to try and get selected - it’s been a goal of mine to achieve.”

“I’ve never driven on a track outside of NSW, so this is a huge feat and an experience I will never forget,” Stephanie said.

“I’m thrilled to be selected, I’ve never represented my state before and to achieve this so early on in my career is rewarding.”

Trainer / Driver Stephanie Lippiatt driving My Petronus NZ (#2) leads the field into the straight in the ‘Smoking Gringos @ Penrith Paceway Feb 27 Pace’ on 18th February. Photo by Noel Rowsell

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local news

T

he ‘WomenCan Team Teal’ campaign is a partnership with the Harness Racing industry in Australia and New Zealand.

The Industry’s advocacy and support of Team Teal is a significant contributor to fund-raising for women with ovarian cancer.

The Harness Racing industry is proud of the contribution made by reins-women and industry sponsors, as it is one of the few sports with a balanced representation of women and men. This makes the support of the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG’s) research improving life for women with gynaecological cancer very relevant.

Across 6 weeks in February and March each year, all reins-women race in teal pants to raise awareness and much-needed funds for ovarian cancer research when they secure first place across the finish line. Funds raised support the Research Nurse Grant Program and the Survivors Teaching Students Program.

HOW TO SUPPORT TEAM TEAL The success of Team Teal not only relies on sponsorship by principal partners but also on the fundraising efforts of the wider harness racing community.

Here are some helpful ways to get involved: 1. Donate to a reins-woman in your state or local area 2. Purchase ‘Team Teal’ merchandise online to sell at your next racing event 3. Clubs can promote a ‘Team Teal Race Day’ and seek admission by donations 4. Like baking? Start by selling teal cookies and cupcakes at your workplace, school or next race meet 5. Free dress day at your school 6. Organise a BBQ at your next race meet Funds raised through the Team Teal campaign support ANZGOG’s Survivors Teaching Students program.

This is a ground-breaking education and prevention program which brings ovarian cancer survivors into the classrooms of medical and allied

Photos: Noel Rowsell Grace Panella (above) and Stephanie Lippiatt (below) show off their ‘Team Teal’ colours on Thursday night at the Penrith Paceway.

health students, to share information about ovarian cancer symptoms, a women’s path to diagnosis and their challenges of living with cancer.

The funds further support the ANZGOG Research Nurse Grant program, which builds capacity of research nurses in under-resourced sites, to enable more women across Australia to have access to new and innovative clinical trials.

Join ‘WomenCan’ at the premier night of international trotting for ovarian cancer research, featuring the Lyn McPherson memorial ‘Breed for Speed’ series.

Among the thrill and excitement of world class racing, guests will enjoy a premium plated dinner, a special guest host and the opportunity to win incredible prizes during the live and silent auctions.

www.panthers.com.au

TIME: 5:00pm - 11:00pm DATE: Saturday, 27th of February 2021 DRESS CODE: Jacket and tie Teal tie’s will be available to purchase at the event.

The Team Teal campaign was created by Duncan McPherson OAM, who lost his wife Lyn to ovarian cancer in 2010. In failing health, Lyn and her family began fundraising for ovarian cancer research and nurses supporting women in the research units, an initiative that Duncan McPherson connected with his passion for harness racing, cofounding Team Teal with fellow owners and trainers, Michael Taranto and Jim Connolly.

The campaign expanded from Victoria to New South Wales in 2016, to all Australian states in 2017 and internationally to New Zealand in 2018.

‘The vision of Team Teal Is to continue to expand our efforts in raising awareness and much-needed funds for ovarian cancer research nurses and Survivors Teaching Students – Saving Women’s Lives.

Nepean News 26 February 2021 Issue 297OWDIG

WomenCan Team Teal Fund-Raising for Ovarian Cancer Awareness

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