Nepean News 28 May 2020

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ISSUE 278

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Game on Api looks happy! After a several week pause and a boot full of challenges, Rugby League is ready to resume.

Bring it on Panthers! Photo courtesy Penrith Panthers

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Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

St Marys Rotary Club supporting Fusion Western Sydney

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St Marys Rotary New Generation Director Phil Martin with Fusion’s representatives Amy Breen and Judy Tweeddale.

By KeRRIE DAVIES

D

uring this challenging period in time St Marys Rotary Club has, like many others, had to re-evaluate how they can assist our local community.

In March this year St Marys Rotary Club allocated $2,000 towards a pilgrimage to Uluru for disadvantaged school children in our area, run

by Fusion Western Sydney.

The trip was scheduled for April 2020. This adventure was cancelled; therefore the board of directors decided to re-direct the donation to Fusion’s “Front Yard Fundraiser”.

“We find it a privilege to support our local

community and have the flexibility to reallocate funds to suit requirements,” said Rotarian Chris Miller.

Fusion has received consistent support from St Marys Rotary.

“They have been keen supporters of the work of Fusion for many years, both with donations, running BBQ’s at community events, participating in SLEEP IN YOUR CAR for homelessness and attending Fundraising events,” a representative from Fusion said.

“Thank you Rotary St Marys for your most recent support of the work of Fusion with vulnerable young people and families by donating $2000. Rotary St Marys you are champions!”

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 28 May 2020 Issue 278

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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:

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

H

ow lucky are we to be Australian?

You’d have to be pretty hard to please if you didn’t appreciate the job that the Prime Minister, Premier, Ministers, MPs and Councillors have done to ensure we’ve emerged one of the least affected nations on the globe.

Over the last year every time Scott Morrison has come up for air there’s been another disaster waiting to punch him back under. And although at times he’s copped some flak, there’s no denying he has steered this ship through an absolute inclement storm. Truth be told, I don’t think even Anthony Albanese would want his job right now.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne - imagine her job over the last 12 months?

Aussies tragically killed in the volcano in New Zealand, followed by the most horrendous bushfires at a time when lots of Aussies were holidaying away from their burning homes, only to come out of that and be hit with a global pandemic.

She’s had to manage the bringing home of Aussies from every corner of the planet. They’ve had to be transferred from all different cities and remote areas to places where an airport can support a home-bound flight. And it has been anything but simple - ducking and weaving through street closures, lockdowns, quarantine laws and language barriers to bring our fellow Aussies home.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian has held a daily 8am press conference and kept the state updated on where we stand every day. She’s had to juggle and balance what is best for NSW going into restrictions, and now in weaning us out.

Our emergency and health services and all those whose jobs couldn’t be put on hold to ensure we could still eat, get medications, petrol and access banks - have been absolutely spectacular.

The rest of us have faced business closures, job losses, changed working conditions, less pay, rising debt, and time away from those we love.

Of course there will always be the odd whinger and the token armchair ‘expert’ who knows better than anyone qualified, but the majority of us have listened to instruction and united in the fight against the pandemic.

We’ve still got some way to go, but we’ve all banded together and done the best we can; because that’s the way we roll.

How lucky are we to be Australian.

Stay safe.

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local news

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

By Jim Devine

E

mu Plains Lions recently got a call for help from Penrith Salvation Army, who required 20 laptops for their client families in the Greater Penrith Region for education and contact purposes.

Lions President Alan Cooper was only able to help with three laptops, as the club’s fundraising has been curtailed due to covid-19 restrictions.

The Club purchased the laptops from Harvey Norman 2nds World at a special price for Lions of $400.

So, that leaves the Salvos 17 laptops short. If you are able to help with the balance of laptops, please contact Andrea Martin of the Salvos on 0447 888 160 or andrea.martin@salvationarmy.org.au or James Sinclair of 2nds World on 2ndsworld@ au.harveynorman.com or Emu Plains Lions Alan Cooper on 4739 2603 or 0414 155 917 or alan17val5@gmail.com

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

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 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Salvos call for help

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Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

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local news

Starlight Foundation helps Chayse be a kid again

By KeRRIE DAVIES

B

orn just 15 months apart, brothers Chayse and Cruze were inseparable. They shared a love of the great outdoors, and were best mates.

Sadly, the boys also share a rare genetic disorder known as LPIN1 causing the body to attack itself - where muscle cells become stressed and leak protein into the bloodstream.

Six-year-old Cruze tragically lost his life from the condition after going into cardiac arrest in 2018.

“Our lives were torn apart when we lost Cruze,” mum Kristen said. “He’d just had a sore tummy and a mild fever and three days later, he was gone.”

After Cruze’s shock passing, Kristen and dad Michael decided to have Chayse, 5, and his brothers Talon, 10, and Jordon, 17, tested for the genetic disorder.

They were still anxiously waiting for the test results when Chayse started developing sore hips and was having trouble walking.

Chayse was admitted to hospital with dangerously high levels of a muscle protein which can lead to heart failure.

His muscle protein levels were 7,000 when normally they’re between 2-200.

Then came the test results his parents had feared.

Five-year-old Chayse tested positive

for the same genetic disorder as Cruze and his older brother, Talon, was a carrier of the gene deletion. Fortunately their eldest son, Jordon, is free from LPIN1.

“I had the terror of knowing that what happened to Cruze could happen again. I remember Chayse asking me

if he was going to die,” mum Kristen recalls.

When Captain Starlight visited Chayse on the hospital ward, he could play, laugh and be a kid again.

Kristen said Captain Starlight helped Chayse cope with everything he was going through.

“Knowing that there is something to break up time in hospital and bring us joy is essential to our family’s wellbeing.”

When he’s well enough to leave his hospital bed, Chayse loves going to the Starlight Express Room to play video games with the Captains and loves to make an appearance on Starlight TV. Kristen said the family cherish every moment together and try to live a normal life as possible while managing the ongoing stress associated with Chayse’s condition.

“We live with the constant worry that one episode will take him away from me like Cruze was.”

And to Starlight supporters she said, “You have shown us that there are people in the world who care.”

$3.7 million boost for Jamison Park

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ork has started on a $3.7 million FIFA Standard multi-use synthetic sports facility at Jamison Park.

Once complete, the facility will deliver two synthetic rectangular football (soccer) fields, a cricket wicket and an AFL oval, along with a new pathway and smart technology LED floodlights.

The project forms part of Council’s Sports and Recreation Strategy and is jointly funded by Council and the NSW Government through the Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund (GSSFF), with a contribution from the Nepean Football Association.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM commended the NSW Government on its investment in the future of our City and thanked the local Member Stuart Ayres MP for his continuing support.

“Jamison Park is the most highly used sporting facility in the Western City District District, attracting around 300,000 visitors a year,” he said. “This allweather facility will play a vital role in providing our community with the opportunity to enjoy an active lifestyle, now and as our City continues to grow.”

The GSSFF Grant for Jamison Park was announced last year by the Member for Penrith, the Hon. Stuart Ayres MP. “Jamison Park is already a fantastic active space in the heart of Penrith,” Mr Ayres said. “The addition of a synthetic field will make it exceptional in terms of function and accessibility for the community” The completed fields will allow for concurrent football matches, or eight games on small fields.

It can also be used by local cricket teams, rugby league, AFL and schools.

(L to R): Linda Cerone – GM Nepean Football Association, Steve Hurley – Director Nepean Football Association, Hon. Stuart Ayres (Member for Penrith) and Cr Ross Fowler OAM (Mayor of Penrith).

Cr Fowler said synthetic playing surfaces are a more reliable and durable option for both Council, sporting groups and the community.

“As local sporting groups are well aware, the current turf fields at Jamison Park are susceptible to inclement weather and cannot be used when water-logged,” he said. “The upgrade to a synthetic surface will ensure sporting clubs and associations are less impacted by cancellations and can provide a more sustainable structure for their members.”

In addition, the new surface will improve the sustainability of existing fields as well as allow sport to be played 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

“I am excited about the possibilities of this new facility, not just to increase participation in sport, but to attract a broader range of events and other activities to our City,” Cr Fowler said.

Council expects the new facility to be completed by early 2021.

Find out more about this upgrade at www.penrith.city/jamisonpark

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

long with the colder weather, June brings with it the relaxing of the restrictions that we’ve had for many weeks now.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has lifted the numbers of restaurant diners to 50, the kids are back at school and further restriction easing is expected to be announced over the coming weeks.

And while this is a welcomed call for local businesses, for many it isn’t as simple as opening the doors back up and continue to trade as well as they did before.

Every business of course has different circumstances.

Large restaurants, pubs and clubs have to work out whether a 50 customer limit will be worth turning the lights on for, let alone the costs of staff and restocking ready to trade.

Retail and trades will be hoping that people will be willing to spend their money; at a time where people are nervous about the state of our economy.

And many businesses will have a battle to fund recommencing after having had to survive on ‘the smell

of an oily rag’. Not everyone received grants, government assistance or rent relief.

The sad reality is many will close their doors for good.

It has never been more important to shop local and support our local businesses.

As the old saying goes, you never realise what you’ve got until it is gone.

Take some time to look around, notice the businesses you’d hate to see close, and spend a few dollars there.

Last weekend I went to my friend Rachel’s home for dinner and when I arrived she said, ”I hope you don’t mind eating take-away. I’m on a mission to support local. Every Friday night I order home delivery

from a different local restaurant.” I was delighted with the idea.

Then she went further. “Every weekend I’m going to make a point of visiting a local attraction. We have some of the best things around right under our nose. This is the time to support them,” she said.

“If I need something done at the house I’m going to make sure any tradie I engage lives locally, even if it costs a few bucks more than engaging a corporate company. I’m going to spend some dollars supporting the local family owned retailers. Grab my last minute items from the IGA’s rather than the big brand supermarkets.”

If we all think a bit like Rachel does, we all contribute to the ongoing

success of our region. If businesses are stable, we help ensure local job safety and the convenience of having the things that we want or need within reach.

And now I’ll put in a bit of a plug (or a bit of shameless self-promotion) for Nepean News. It is the businesses who support us who enable us to bring the local news to you for free. Like all free publications, without advertising we would flatline. It is a domino effect!

If businesses are stable and spending, our product stays alive.

Thanks for your support and remember to shop local!

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

It has never been so important to shop local

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Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

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local news

Mayoral Minute with Mayor, Cr Ross Fowler OAM

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t the April Ordinary Meeting, Council received a Mayoral Minute on the significant measures Penrith City Council had already implemented to support our community.

At that meeting, Councillors supported expanding community assistance by endorsing our 2020-21 Operational Plan.

I am proud to provide an update on Council’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and our current actions to support recovery. Council’s innovation and agility has been highlighted during this difficult period.

Not only have we continued to deliver services across the LGA, we have pivoted our programs and initiatives to find new and exciting ways to support and connect with our community.

Partnerships have been a vital part of our response to COVID-19.

Council has worked with Nepean Food Services to deliver 250 wellbeing packages, and teamed up with Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District to offer free flu vaccinations to 116 vulnerable older people in North St Marys and Kingswood.

Our Neighbourhood Renewal Team

is facilitating a working group with our key partners to address community need and identify opportunities for collaboration.

Through Council’s social media platforms, we are leading the way in connecting residents to a range of local services offering food hampers, financial assistance, mental health and parenting support as well as legal advice.

Council’s Thursday Night Live – Lockdown Series, which livestreams local musicians via our Facebook page, has been viewed 23,600 times over 7 weeks.

While Council will continue to look for safe ways to deliver our services and to keep our community connected with us and one another, we are also acting now to build resilience and support for our City’s post-coronavirus recovery. Council is establishing two taskforces to aid community and economic recovery.

Together, the Penrith Community Recovery Taskforce and the Penrith Economic Recovery Taskforce will help Council accelerate sustainable social, cultural, economic and environmental recovery in Penrith in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Deputy Mayor and I will each chair a taskforce which will include members from a range of sectors who will provide specialist knowledge and advice. We will meet monthly until May 2021.

The dedicated taskforces will deliver a planned response to the recovery efforts, build resilience and act as a conduit, making recommendations to Council, industry bodies and the NSW Government.

Council is uniquely positioned to support the community including our local small business community throughout the recovery process, to build a stronger and more resilient Penrith into the future.

Nsw patient experience program coming to Nepean Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP has announced that patients at hospital emergency departments and COVID-19 Clinics in the Mulgoa electorate will soon benefit from an $8.6 million expansion of the NSW Government’s Patient Experience Program, which is the first of its kind in Australia.

An additional 86 full time equivalent staff will be recruited to 50 hospitals across NSW, with facilities operating COVID-19 clinics a priority. From this 86, there will be eight additional staff across Nepean, Blacktown, Fairfield and Liverpool hospitals, two staff at each hospital.

“This program aims to create a welcoming, safe, empowering environment for everyone who arrives at our emergency departments.

Patient Experience Officers will greet patients on arrival and help to guide them through their care, providing information on where to go, what to

expect, and updates on appointment queues,” Mrs Davies said.

“Patient Experience Program staff receive specific training from the NSW Ministry of Health Patient Experience Team, Service NSW, and their Local Health District, to ensure they are well qualified to provide this extra support to patients, carers and visitors.”

Minister for Health and Medical

Research Brad Hazzard said the recruitment of new positions is already underway, and there has been overwhelming interest to participate in this exciting program.

“This program has already been immensely valuable at the pilot sites, and extending this extra support across NSW is very timely as we continue to combat COVID-19,” Mr Hazzard said.

As part of the program, patients receive: • access to free Wi-Fi, mobile phone charging stations, additional power points, water and other refreshments • information sent to their mobile device about what to expect during their stay • fact sheets on their particular condition/ treatment options • ongoing care instructions after discharge, available in multiple languages.

Advice in multiple languages will also be given on safety, hygiene and COVID-19 symptoms.

The funding boost to the Patient Experience Program is part of the NSW Government’s $800 million investment to support the health system’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information visit: w w w. h e a l t h . n s w. g o v. a u / Performance/Pages/experience.aspx

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local news

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ederal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP, has welcomed an Australian Government initiative developed by the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre which will allow local manufacturers greater access to potential partners and customers.

The COVID-19 Manufacturer Response Register will allow for widespread collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers and customers who will be able to source Australian made products, supplies and businesses.

Ms McIntosh said this is something that local businesses have asked for, and is needed to help ensure a rebalance of manufacturing occurs as we emerge from this pandemic. “The Coronavirus global pandemic has shown that Australia relies too heavily on imports from China. We have a competitive edge when it comes to value and quality and we need to focus on this over price,” said Ms McIntosh.

“Being stronger in backing Australian manufacturers is something I am passionate about and Western Sydney has a great opportunity with the Western Sydney Airport and Aerotropolis to lead the way in bringing manufacturing back to Australia, through advanced manufacturing.

“As the Prime Minister said in his National Press Club Address, we need to leverage and build on our strengths, which includes a highly skilled worked force that supports modern, competitive and advanced manufacturing.”

The COVID-19 Manufacturer Response Register platform can be accessed at amgc.org.au

www.Lmac.com.au

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh MP with Prime Minister Scott Morrison last year at a Western Sydney business.

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Member for Lindsay backs local advanced manufacturing

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Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

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local news

New marked seating on public transport

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he NSW Government has recently released its plan to provide a COVID-safe transport network.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said as restrictions are eased and people travel more, we need to ensure physical distancing is maintained across our public transport network.

“As we ease restrictions, we will see more activity and more people returning to work, school and university,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Our number one priority remains keeping commuters safe so we are ensuring there are plenty of safe and efficient options to get people moving throughout our State during the pandemic.”

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said for the foreseeable future, the public transport system could not run as usual, and the current low patronage levels were already close to the safe capacity in the peak.

“Everyone will need to maintain physical distancing during this pandemic,” Mr Constance said.

“That means if you are not already using public transport during the peak times, please do not use public transport during peak periods.”

The NSW Government’s COVIDSafe Transport Plan includes: Avoiding peak travel: If you are not already using public transport in

Train, bus and ferry seats will now be marked with a green spot where you should sit.

the peak, please do NOT use public transport in the peak. Services are already close to capacity to allow for distancing at these times.Off peak times are between 10am and 2pm; Deep cleaning and more hand sanitisers: Intense and ongoing cleaning will occur throughout the transport network and there will be a continued rollout of hand sanitiser at key transport hubs, including at high demand stations; Boosting parking: Special eventstyle parking arrangements will be in place at Moore Park for people who are able to drive to work. Other locations will be rolled out soon. In addition car park operators will be

offering special deals for all day parking; More cycling and walking options: The Government is working with councils on establishing pop-up cycleways and enhancing pedestrian access to allow more people to find alternative routes to work; Physical distancing – ‘No dot, no spot’: Distinctive green dots will be used on trains, buses and ferries to show passengers the safest places to sit and stand. A ‘No dot, no spot’ will see passengers asked to wait for the next service. School children will be given priority access; More data: Customers to be given real time information through Apps,

social media and Transport Info to see which services have space available to maintain physical distancing; and More services: Changes will be considered to increase services eg; more ferries, water taxis and private vehicle passenger services on the water.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said cleaning continues to be ramped up, with an extra 132,000 hours of cleaning since March.

“The network has never been cleaner, however to maintain physical distancing you will continue to see fewer people on our network and we want people to continue to drive, cycle and walk whenever they can,” Mr Constance said.

“We will be monitoring patronage and have staff at key locations across the metropolitan area to assist customers.”

Ms Berejiklian said it is important the community continues to come together to slow the spread of COVID-19.

“Our frontline transport staff have been doing an amazing job during this unprecedented time and I urge you to keep giving them your respect and understanding,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Be prepared your trip will look different and please consider all options available before you start your journey.”

Our COVID clinics: Ready, willing and able

By KeRRIE DAVIES

J

ust over two months have passed since our COVID-19 Clinics were set up, and the teams at our Blue Mountains, Lithgow, Nepean and Hawkesbury COVID-19 Clinics have collectively carried out more than 20,500 tests.

David Sutton, who is usually an Anaesthetic Nurse for Theatres, has been part of the Blue Mountains COVID-19 Clinic since it started in March, switching roles when elective surgery was scaled back.

“Once the hot spot listing hit, we were regularly getting over 100 swabs a day and it hasn’t slowed down yet,” says Mr Sutton.

“A lot of people are understandably nervous when they come in, so we just try to reassure them and create a warm and friendly environment,” he says.

Just like Penrith; Lithgow and Blue Mountains experienced a surge in testing when NSW Health labelled it as a ‘hot spot’.

To cater for demand, the Blue Mountains clinic reworked their model to provide dedicated parking, increased waiting room capacity, set up a second swabbing station, and had

Staff inside the Blue Mountains Hospital COVID Clinic

two nursing teams on at the one time along with increased clerical support.

Thanks to the tremendous testing efforts by staff and response by the community, the ‘hot spot’ listings

were removed about a week later.

More information about our COVID Clinics including the opening times.

In addition to our 4 hospital-based

clinics there is also GP-led respiratory clinics in the Penrith and the Blue Mountains.

For more advice about COVID-19 please visit the NSW Health website.

local news

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he Fred Hollows Foundation is thanking the Nepean region for their continued generosity and support during a difficult year.

In the past year, more than 45 people from the Nepean community have become regular supporters of The Foundation.

Founding Director Gabi Hollows said the unwavering support and generosity from the Nepean region is inspiring and a reminder of the trueblue Australian spirit that Fred loved so much.

“I know that this is undoubtedly a challenging time for many of our supporters,” Ms Hollows said.

“This certainly is our toughest year; trying to restore sight to people who are needlessly blind during a global pandemic.

“To see the Nepean region’s continued generosity warms my heart and reminds me of the true, altruistic Australian spirit that has kept The Foundation alive for 27 years.

“Thank you, Nepean, for continuing The Foundation’s work and keeping Fred’s dream alive. I am truly grateful.”

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Foundation began contributing to local responses across the world through redirecting

resources to fight the pandemic.

Many health care workers who usually focus on eye care have been using their medical expertise on the frontlines, such as nurses in our eye hospitals in the Philippines and Kenya.

One of the patients that the Nepean community helped was five-year-old Night from Kenya.

Night was just five years old when her parents, Deborah and Stephen, discovered she had cataract in both eyes.

Night was desperate to go to school with the other children as she yearned to be a teacher, but her condition

stopped her.

“Night follows the other children to school and I have to bring her back because when she goes, she falls over,” Deborah said.

Their lives changed the day a community health worker, trained by The Fred Hollows Foundation, visited their village and said their little girl could get help.

After a five-hour journey, Night and Stephen arrived at the Sabatia Eye Hospital.

When the quick and simple procedure was completed, Night’s eye patches were lifted and, much to her delight, she could see again.

“Thank you so much because you have helped my daughter and she is able to see again,” Stephen said.

“I am overjoyed because deep down I knew we couldn’t afford the cost of surgery to have her eyesight restored.

But because of you, my daughter is able to see and she is so happy.

“I don’t have anything to give in return, it’s just the happiness that I can portray to show you how grateful I am. Thank you.”

Without better funding and access to eye care services, the number of people who are blind is set to triple from 36 million to 115 million over the next 30 years.

To combat this, The Fred Hollows Foundation is training local doctors, nurses, community workers and teachers in eye health, in the places where they are most needed.

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Nepean community continues support during pandemic

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Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS

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Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

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Beauty and nail services can recommence June 1

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eauty and nail salon operators can begin treatments from June 1 under strict COVID-safe guidelines.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this is another important step in easing restrictions while maintaining public safety.

“Whilst this is positive news, the key is introducing practices to protect the safety of both customers and beauticians,” Ms Berejiklian.

“It is vital staff and clients of beauty and nail salons abide by the one person per 4 square metres rule with no more than 10 clients at any one time.”

NSW Health has compiled a checklist for the industry. Businesses must develop a safety plan that addresses how to minimise risk from COVID-19.

Safety plans will include measures such as: • One person per 4 square metres including both staff and clients, up to a maximum of 10 clients at any one time; • Exclusion of staff and clients who are unwell, even if they have only mild symptoms; • Records of attendance on the business premises for all staff, clients and contractors; • Cleaning requirements;

• Removal of books, magazines and iPads from waiting areas to reduce the potential for infection of clients; • Seating in waiting areas that complies with physical distancing; • Ensure good hand hygiene facilities are available, including at venue entry and exit, and promote excellent hand hygiene by staff; • Clearly displayed conditions of entry on their entrance, website and

social media platforms; • Designating a staff member whose responsibilities include ensuring staff and clients have appropriate physical distancing and that the venue does not exceed the maximum capacity limit and; • Measures to maximise distancing between staff where safe and practical, including assigning staff to specific work stations that are at least

1.5 metres apart and minimising any interaction between these stations; • Encourage download of the COVID-safe app.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said clients must not attend salons if they are unwell even with the mildest of symptoms.

“NSW has worked hard to flatten the curve but as restrictions ease we need to ensure the good work continues to keep our community safe,” Mr Hazzard said.

“The elderly and people with underlying health issues should be particularly cautious when and if visiting salons.”

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said it was important beauty therapists and nail salons follow their safety plan, as these are environments where close contact will happen.

“All businesses must have a COVID-19 safety plan and take precautions to protect the health of their staff and their clients,” Dr Chant said.

Businesses covered include beauty, nail, waxing and tanning salons. Once beauty salons are open, any services that normally and legally take place in a beauty salon will be able to be undertaken. Any existing rules and regulations will continue to apply.

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Proud parents Steven Hemana and Angel Solomon with their newborn son Eclipse.

A

ngel Solomon and Steven Hemana will never forget Mother’s Day this year: they welcomed their second baby into the world with a partner experience in a birthing bath!

Angel was admitted to Blacktown Hospital on Saturday 9 May and went to labor the next morning.

Offered a birthing bath for pain relief, she decided to stay in until son, Eclipse, was born at 11.52am.

“I didn’t plan on having a water birth, but I thought to give it a try,” Angel said.

“It was quite different from my first childbirth – a lot better, I would say.

I felt lighter, more comfortable and definitely I was in less pain.

“I’m happy with the help I received from the midwives. I had as much space as I needed, but they were always there, ready to act, and even gave me a back massage.

“When I felt the urge to push, I asked my partner to hold me. Without hesitation he popped in the pool.”

Steven, Angel’s partner, said he loved everything about the birth of their son.

Members of the public tour a new birthing suite at Blacktown Hospital, including a water bath in the foreground, for the 2019 Annual Public Meeting.

“It was spontaneous, but when Angel asked me to get in the pool, I did,” Steven said. “Experiencing it together was the best feeling in the world.

“The facilities in this birth unit were great, so many options for you to choose from. Angel could have given birth in a lot of ways, but I think the water birth was the best choice.”

The water baths are part of Stage 2 of the $700 million Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals redevelopment project, and they are just one element of a major upgrade to women’s health

services.

“The new baths are equipped with a water heating system, a light and step for mum to sit on with handrails,” registered midwife Jemma Chiha said.

“It’s definitely spacious enough if mums want their partner to join.

“It’s much more comfortable for women to float in warm water – it helps with relaxation and pain relief.

As for the baby, it’s a nice transition from warm amniotic fluid [the water in mum’s uterus] into the warm bath water.”

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Couple shares magical water birth experience

13

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

14

local news

Police files Man stabbed; St Clair

man

arrested

–

A man has been arrested after another man was stabbed in St Clair this week.

Just after 5am (Monday 25 May 2020), emergency services were called to a home on Cassia Close, St Clair, after reports a man had been injured.

Police and paramedics attended and found a 39-yearold man suffering multiple stab wounds to his torso, arms and legs.

He was treated by paramedics and taken to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition. His injuries are not considered life-threatening.

Officers from Nepean Police Area Command established a crime scene.

Shortly after, a 29-year-old man was arrested at a Minchinbury home. He has been taken to Nepean Hospital under police guard for treatment and assessment.

A 24-year-old woman – known to the injured man – is assisting police with their inquiries.

Investigations continue.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

Witnesses sought

How you can help

Police are appealing for information after an alleged road rage incident on the M4 at Mulgoa earlier this month.

About 3:15pm on Wednesday 13 May 2020, it is alleged a grey Holden Caprice collided with a blue Toyota Rav4, westbound on the M4 between the Northern Road and Mulgoa Road.

The driver of the Holden caprice is alleged to have exited his car and produced a knife, before returning to his vehicle and driving into the Rav4 two more times.

Nepean Police Area Command are investigating the matter.

Police urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have dashcam footage, to contact Nepean Police or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 00.

You can help make Australia safer by sharing information what you know about unsolved crimes or suspicious behaviour without saying who you are.

Sharing what you know with Crime Stoppers is easy – just call 1800 333 000 or visit the website. Click on your State or Territory.

You won’t be asked to say who you are – the focus is on what you know.

After you contact Crime Stoppers, information that you share is then sent to police for investigation and follow-up where needed.

Calls and online contacts to us are not traced or identified in any way. www.crimestoppers.com.au

SCAMWATCH News ALERT! Be alert not alarmed. Stay informed with Scams with Scamwatch.

Scamwatch has received over 2000 coronavirus-related scam reports with over $700 000 in reported losses since the outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus).

Don’t be a VICTIM of a SCAM! www.scamwatch.gov.au/news-alerts

Holiday travel restrictions to be lifted from 1 June

By KeRRIE DAVIES

N

SW residents will be able to take a holiday anywhere in NSW from next month, with intra-state travel restrictions to be lifted from Monday 1 June, 2020.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro said NSW citizens will be able take recreational trips across NSW, as long as they maintain social distancing and good hygiene.

Ms Berejiklian said lifting the holiday travel restriction will give everyone a much needed break and help get small businesses and the tourism industry moving again.

“This is the day we’ve all been looking forward to since the COVID-19 travel restrictions were put in place earlier this year and I would like to thank everyone for their patience during the past few months of being cooped up at home,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I must stress to everyone that, while we want people to enjoy a well-earned holiday, we must do this responsibly and continue to abide by physical distancing measures, as the last thing we want is further outbreaks that will force us to reintroduce restrictions.”

Mr Barilaro said while regional NSW will welcome visitors with open arms, holidaymakers should call their planned accommodation venues and attractions to ensure they will be open and confirm their bookings before travelling.

“COVID could not have come

at a worse time for regional NSW, with towns already doing it tough due to bushfires and drought and so I encourage everyone to make plans to safely and responsibly visit their favourite regional holiday destination, or discover a new one,” Mr Barilaro said.

“I encourage holidaymakers to visit local businesses, enjoy local attractions and feast on the best food regional NSW has to offer, and for those not able to get away in June, to start making plans for later in the year

when even more businesses will be open.

“I’m very pleased to share that this means we will have a ski season this year, however holidaymakers should be aware that ski resorts will likely need time to put COVID plans into place and you should make contact before visiting.”

Venues are also encouraged to review their booking policies to allow travellers to easily cancel their trip if they have any symptoms.

A number of caravan parks and

camping grounds will be open from 1 June, but travellers should call ahead and confirm bookings, while travellers planning to visit national parks should check www.nationalparks.nsw.gov. au for further information. Travellers need to especially practice strong hygiene around shared facilities.

Travellers from interstate will be able to visit NSW for a holiday from 1 June but will need to comply with the rules of their home state when returning.

local COLUMNIST

O

ur pets have been reaping the benefits of our extra time at home: more play time, more walk time and more cuddle time.

While they have been an enormous source of comfort to our family, we need to prepare them for our return to work and ‘normal life’. Whether they have been a part of our life for many years or are a recent addition to the family, there will be a time of confusion when we get back into our regular routines.

Here are a few tips you can implement now to ensure your dog is prepared for life after COVID-19.

Stick to a routine: Like us, dogs

are creatures of habit. Create a routine that includes time with the family, rest, exercise and alone time during the day. Remember to set aside time to head out of the house without them even for a short time.

Not another walk: Depending on breed and general overall health, most dogs need 30 - 45 minutes of aerobic exercise a day. While we may think that we are doing our dogs a favour by taking them on extra walks, remember to keep them within their capabilities. Start an exercise routine that you are able to keep up once you return to work.

Let sleeping dogs lie: Dogs’ sleep pattern vary according to their age, general health and activity levels.

Most dogs sleep for an average of 12 hours a day while puppies will sleep and rest more. If your dog is catching up on sleep, leave them to rest as none of us like being woken up!

Toy time: Dogs need to learn to play without the constant interaction with their pet parents. Rotating toys, filling treat toys with food and interactive toys will keep your dog engaged.

Placing toys in a toy box at the end of toy time will greatly increase their interest and novelty value the next

time they come out. Dogs can even be taught to put their own toys away!

Training time: Now is a great time to invest in some positive rewardbased training and education. This can be done at home using you tube videos of accredited trainers. Ask your vet for the best on-line training resources. Remember to always use reward-based training over negative or adverse training methods. A refresher course of the basics such as sit, come, drop, stay is always good place to start.

Creative cooking: Think of some creative feeding techniques like Kong toys, puzzle feeders, chew bones and scatter feeds to increase the time and mental energy spent eating. These feeding solutions will also keep your dog entertained while you’re away from home.

The team at Greencross Vets Coreen Ave are here with you every step of the way and have puppy preschool trainers that can answer your questions and concerns. Please contact us on 02 4731 3055.

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Preparing our pets for life after COVID

15

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.

Alternatively, if you don’t use facebook feel free to call us on 9834 5579 and we will hook you up!

FOUND

FOUND

JORDAN SPRINGS

FOUND

MISSING

CAMBRIDGE PARK

MISSING MARSHMALLOW - CAMBRIDGE PARK

MISSING ST MARYS

LUXFORD RD

SOUTH PENRITH

local news

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

16

Balance At Work

D

URING this challenging time for business owners it helps to think of your company as an ecosystem. In geographical terms an ecosystem is made up of plants, animals and weather all working together. Like a gum tree on the bank of the Nepean river, your business’ people and processes respond to the everchanging environment. Every ecosystem adapts to challenges or disappears. Your organisation is no different.

Here are three ways you can make sure your business weathers the Coronavirus storm.

1) Prevent A healthy ecosystem is resilient and sustainable.

In a crisis, vulnerabilities are revealed. A healthy ecosystem will adapt, but it’s up to you to keep your business healthy by understanding what could lead to its decline or collapse. Once you’ve realised the

areas of weakness, you can iron out the kinks and make your business stronger for the future.

2) Prepare In a healthy ecosystem, everything is there for a reason. Know your organisation’s values and purpose. Why do they exist and who do they serve?

These values should lead every step in your plan of action. Next, decide what people, processes, technology and finances you need to see you through the current crisis. Make the changes you need to make, ensuring everyone knows their part in the plan. As we adjust to the current reality, it reminds us that we all rely on one another. In every interaction, in our businesses and beyond, now is the time to be more present, vulnerable and authentic.

3) Predict You’ve prevented the worst. You’ve got the tools at hand to prepare you for what comes next.

With Susan Rochester

Now you’re in a position to predict how your business will come out of this. All your analysis and planning have made you think more about the long-term goals for your business. You know that every challenge your business has faced is a lesson learned that will help you make better educated decisions for the future.

Remember, your customers and employees are the beating heart of your business. They are the living parts of your own little ecoystem, the most dynamic and adaptable to change. Now is the right time to sort out what needs to be done and what you expect from your business, staff and customers.

Write down your plan. Make it available. Refer to it often. Update it when needed. Hold yourself and your team accountable.

You can’t control the future, but your ecosystem will be ready to adapt, survive and thrive.

Get in touch for a free consultation Call

0448 306 180

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

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“The passing of Mark White is a devastating loss for his family and our community. His passion for the Museum of Fire is legendary and his commitment to community safety has left an indelible mark on countless young people across NSW. Mark had a big presence in every room he walked into and his loss will leave a massive hollow in our community that can never be truly filled.”

Stuart Ayres, State Member for Penrith “The passing of Museum of Fire CEO Mark White is a loss not only to his family, but to our wider St Marys and Penrith communities.

Mark was a dedicated, long-serving member of St Marys Fire and Rescue who served our community with distinction. He will be greatly missed.”

Prue Car, State Member for Londonderry “The community of Penrith owe a great deal to the passion and dedication that Mark White applied to everything that he was involved with.

Mark certainly had a big presence in life but not only was he seen, his personality was also felt, the legacy of his endeavours will be appreciated by many well into the future. Mark’s dedication to the Penrith Museum of Fire is legendary as is his commitment to community safety.

Our thoughts are with the family on this sad occasion.

On behalf of the Penrith community, thank you Mark and well done, you will be greatly missed.”

Ross Fowler, Mayor of Penrith “I first met Mark 20 years ago as then board member of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce. Due to having an involvement with the Llandilo RFS our discussion quickly turned to how our brigade could control traffic for his annual truck show. The rest is history with Mark always having our brigade attend year after year and donating money. There wouldn’t be one person to say a bad word about Mark. Business, charities, neighbours, mates, domestic and international tourists and the obvious of all - family, he loved them all. Until his untimely death he remained absolutely committed to our community and his family. RIP Mark on behalf of a very grateful community. We will never forget you.”

Graham Chapman

“He was such an integral part of the Penrith community and the Penrith Festival. Mark’s passion and hard work will be remembered for years and generations to come. The children he educated with fire knowledge is priceless.

We will miss him very much and he leaves a legacy that will forever be part of Penrith.”

Gai Hawthorn, Penrith CBD Corp “Mark will be sorely missed, as a fellow firefighter and as a member of the community. Mark always had the interests of the broader community in his heart. His contribution to ensuring the preservation of our firefighting history, and to creating an iconic venue within the Western Suburbs was impressive.

His contribution to supporting my family during the worst moments of our lives can never be appropriately repaid, and I know that he played a part in supporting many other families as well.

The lack of his presence at community events will be felt for a long time to come.”

Michael Morris (Mick) “The day the Penrith community stood still. The silence of a passionate person that towered over just about everyone and everything, you can almost hear the vintage trucks in the Museum of fire, crying for their leader.

20 years ago NRS was just a tiny security company employing not many and he gave us a go. I was terrified, my first major contract and first major event. I had my doubts, but he never did, he challenged us to the next level and I will always be very thankful for that.

Vale Mr White,” Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Vale Mark White: goodbye gentle giant

21

Legends of the Nepean Brother Jeff Regan

Brother Jeff Regan

By Noel Rowsell

B

rother Jeff Regan has lived a life of service, both to God and to the community.

When the former St Dominic’s College Headmaster was diagnosed with Coronavirus and fell critically ill, the shockwave could be felt throughout the Penrith District and beyond, given his history of tireless service to so many people, causes and his faith.

He would spend a total of 6 weeks in Nepean District Hospital, with 3 weeks in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 2 of those weeks in a coma.

The day he was released from hospital brought joy not only to the Nursing Staff at the hospital, who cheered him on his way out, but to the entire community.

Now well on the way to a full recovery, whilst convalescing at home in Mulgoa, Brother Jeff is working diligently at building up his fitness and strength so he can once again move back into full community involvement and for the Brothers of the Oceania Province.

Born in 1950 in Sacred Heart Hospital, Moreland, Vic to parents Joyce and Norman Regan, Jeff would commence schooling at St Vincent’s Strathmore, then attend St Monicas for years 4-7, St Kierans to work for Secondary Scholarship, Years 9-11 at St

Bernard’s, initially located at Moonee Ponds before a move to its current site in West Essendon.

In 1967, Jeff went to the Juniorate at Bundoora to complete his HSC, then on to more formal Christian Brothers training.

He became a novice in Lower Plenty, then served his 2nd year at Treacy College, Parkville before achieving his Scholasticate (teaching diploma) at the Teacher’s College Box Hill, where he would work as a ‘Prac’ Teacher at both Ringwood and Warnnambool.

Brother Jeff’s first mission was at St Kevin’s Toorak, then to St Joseph’s Technical College Abbotsford.

Here at Abbotsford, he primarily taught both mathematics and science.

He was also Sportsmaster for the four years, in addition to running the Army Cadets for 2 years, before the Government abolished them.

In these early years the Brothers were required to engage in formal part time studies and while Jeff engaged in various subjects and courses successfully, none really captured his imagination or the permission of his superiors (especially Art). So on the side he began work in a new Physical Education degree and ultimately this was accepted so that in

1977, he was given a full-time year, living with other student Brothers at Treacy College, Parkville.

Having not quite finished the degree and wishing to pursue some Honours subjects, Brother Jeff went to St. Vincent’s Boys Home in South Melbourne, where he also helped supervise the boys and engage them in sports.

This short time at St Vincent’s taught him about the profound effect on the young when they feel unloved.

Brother Jeff was asked to move to NSW for two years under an exchange program and he has been a Sydney-sider since.

He began in Sydney at Christian Brothers HS Lewisham from 1979-82, teaching Mathematics and PE, being Sportsmaster in charge of the PDHPE department and also Year 8 coordinator.

In 1983, Brother Jeff moved to a new challenge at Rosary College, Tamworth from 1983-89 and holding various positions there including Sportsmaster, Curriculum Coordinator and Deputy Head and teaching Maths, Science and PE. This would be a new experience, living in the home of Country Music and working in a co-education environment.

He moved on to Xavier College Albury (199094) as Campus Director, where he also started the

Final Profession 1975

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Brother Jeff Regan was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Jan Harrison.

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

Montage from Brother Jeff’s Retirement Presentation Dinner in 2013.

Amnesty Group in 1993 - he has now been an active member of Amnesty International for the past 27 years.

The formal teaching of PE and Maths continued and a year teaching the all-girls, 6th level of year 10 Maths is a vivid memory.

At this time, Brother Jeff became largely responsible for the administration of Catholic Colleges Basketball in NSW to add to his local

involvement in the sport at representative level, whilst also obtaining a Grad Dip in Student Welfare.

His first role as a School Principal was at St Edward’s Gosford (1995-2003), where the ‘Jeff the builder’ tag was born.

Brother Jeff’s keen interest towards troubled students and those with learning difficulties saw this department expanded and led to the establishment of The Haven at Terrigal.

He moved to the same role at St Dominic’s College, Kingswood in 2004 and served there until his retirement in 2013.

During his 10-year term at St Dominic’s Brother Jeff accepted responsibility for the Obley Annex at St.Mary’s and, in 2006, established the Savio Centre for chronic truants from Primary Schools in the region, to skill those students for Secondary mainstreaming.

He has been a member of the Board of the Penrith Valley Sports Stadium for the past 16 years and served as Chairman for a number of years.

Brother Jeff is a member of the Vinnie’s Group for Luddenham, Warragamba, Wallacia, Bringelly and Mulgo regions, worked in various Ministries for the Catholic Parish of Luddenham / Warragamba, including as a member of the Finance Committee.

He has been a University Tutor for 5 years in the Clemente Program at Mt Druitt, which involves First-Year University subjects from ACU for adults who missed out on a chance for tertiary study.

He has been a member of the Nepean / Blue Mountains & Hawkesbury branch of the NSW Rose Society for 10 years and is the current Chairman.

Brother Jeff has also been a member of the Blue Mountains Bird Observers for the past year.

A good sportsman in his own right, particularly with Basketball and AFL, he is also a keen sailor, shooter and lawn bowler and his interests extend to movies, fiction novels, V8 and F1 Motor Racing and as an amateur artist.

Brother Jeff was heavily involved with Basketball in particular, both coaching and as Coaching Educator at St Dominic’s and also coaching in the representative program with the Penrith Basketball Association.

Since his retirement, he has been fully committed to his role with Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA), which is the network of schools offering a Catholic education in the tradition of Blessed Edmund Rice.

EREA aims to offer a liberating education, based on a Gospel Spirituality, within an inclusive community committed to Justice and Solidarity.

From 2014-18, Brother Jeff was the Education Officer for NSW, sat on the State Priority Committee for building grants for Catholic Schools and was the Cluster Leader for the Brothers in NSW. In 2019, he became the Oceania Province Sustainability Officer and the Edmund Rice International Coordinator for Australia.

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

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

24

ENTERTAINMENT

SUDOKU: EASY

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill the grid so that every column, every row & every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

SUDOKU: HARD

SOLUTIONS: 14 May EASY

hard

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Dolphin (8) 5 Slaps (6) 9 Shot up abruptly (8) 10 Capital of Canada (6) 12 Scavenging (9) 13 Barf (5) 14 Shadow (archaic) (4) 16 Purposes (7) 19 Romantic (7) 21 Passport (4) 24 Coops (5) 25 Global (9) 27 Not senior (6) 28 Marrow squash plant (8) 29 Messy (6) 30 Insincere praise (8)

solution 14/5/20

down 1 Examine (6) 2 Amply (6) 3 Classical music theatre (5) 4 Appearing (7) 6 Incites (9) 7 Disputant (8) 8 Most intelligent (8) 11 Tangelo (4) 15 Intersection (9) 17 Wolverine (8) 18 Supposedly, a policeman’s

favourite (8) 20 Seeded (4) 21 Realistic (7) 22 Manly (6) 23 Prove true or correct (6) 26 An old gold coin (5)

NEPEAN HISTORY

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

I

n 1893 an old Castlereagh resident by the name of John Colless died after six months of aged related complications ending in a severe cold. He was born at Castlereagh in 1814 and was said to be “one of the best-read men of ordinary education in the district”. John was a miller who established Mill Farm on the Nepean River with a water mill and a large water wheel where the settlers could get their grain gristed (Grist is grain that has been separated from its chaff in preparation for grinding), but in 1872 after forty years the river changed its course and the mill having no power was dismantled and most of the machinery was buried in the grass. Governor Lachlan Macquarie first visited the area in 1810. He proclaimed Castlereagh as one of his new towns. Castlereagh was surveyed with a town square and streets with lots allocated and a cemetery, but it failed to develop. The difficulty being access to a reliable source of water. After several floods most of the settlers still wanted to stay on their farms that were close to the river where they had reliable water and land that was cleared, cultivated and productive. Settlement was well established by 1806 and the pioneers were a sturdy though generally poor bunch. They were happy to make a living from their little farms and a time came when hay was grown for the Sydney market. The first Methodist Church in Australia was erected in Castlereagh. John Lees an ex-soldier consecrated an acre of his grant to religious purposes and in 1817 erected the old church that was superseded by the present church in 1847. For several years, the old church was used as a school. The Collett family settled at Castlereagh in 1801 and the first school in the district was held in the old homestead. This cottage was long gone by 1929 when William Freame visited the area of the cottage and commented that “its quaint slab kitchen with the chimney and oven occupying all of one end is remembered”. William was born in 1868. He was renown as a local historian. His occupation was that of a painter but during the depression of the 1890’s he walked from Melbourne to Sydney in search of work. He eventually settled in Westmead and was elected Mayor of Holroyd Council in 1909. He was a freelance journalist who published small booklets on his travels and contributed articles to the “Nepean Times” from around 1904 to 1929. He died aged 65 in 1933, his death recorded in the “Nepean Times”. He wrote an article in the Sydney Evening newspaper called the “Historic Marks of Dreamy Nepean” in 1929 and reading his words takes the reader back to a time when Penrith and surrounds still had places to explore the early landmarks of our fascinating history. I would have liked to have been alive at that time to explore this history along with him and hear him talk about what he remembered of the district. He wrote at that time “with the march of progress it was becoming increasingly difficult to locate many notable old landmarks and to preserve for posterity much of our history that is worth recording. Turning north from the Western road at the west end of Penrith we pass disused fields that were once rich in cultivation. Although cultivation has fallen off near Penrith, every highway and byway have liberal green margins specked with flowers and skirted by hedges of briar or hawthorn, and there remain old fruit trees, real old veterans, their aged and gnarled limbs laden with blossom. Scraggy firs and a few tall pines hide an occasional old house that was once a hotel or a comfortable farm home, but time has laid ruthless hands upon the landscape and the visitor motoring through Castlereagh to Richmond sees little to remind them that this was one of the first agricultural settlements in Australia. In a

Michelle Latham

michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au

PH: 9623 6656 | MOBILE: 0418 250 242 186 Queen Street, St. Marys (Star Arcade)

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Historic Castlereagh

25

courtyard surrounded by the remains of a large house is an incredibly old tree, where tradition informs us men were hanged. It is also said that the ring bolt in the kitchen is where the kitchen man, or woman, would be chained to work. But one must take old Castlereagh traditions with a grain of salt. On one occasion a pioneer shot at a midnight prowler and so the story ran that one could hear the blood dripping upon the pavement.

As a matter of fact, the shot penetrated a big water tank. Gone the curious old church and its parsonage all dating from Macquarie, and old hands who remain links with the past are going fast. We mount the ridge where Chaplain Fulton’s original Anglican church stood, but nothing remains but the mark of its foundations”. Reverend Henry Fulton was the first minister. Born in England in 1761 and ordained to the ministry of the Church of Ireland. He was implicated in the Irish rebellion of 1798 and convicted at Tipperary in 1799 of seditious practices and sentenced to transportation for life, but he hadn’t surrendered for self-transportation because his friends had declared that his Confession was extorted by fear of a species of torture at that time much too common. The departure of Richard Johnson the principal chaplain, enabled Henry to resume his profession, so in November 1800 he was conditionally pardoned and sent as an assistant chaplain to the Hawkesbury and then to Norfolk Island in 1801 where he did well and was granted a full pardon in 1805 and returned to the mainland in 1806. Henry admired Governor Bligh’s policy towards the Hawkesbury settlers. He was in attendance at Government House for the greater part of the day of the Governor’s arrest and was then confined to his own house and interrogated by the rebels without success. He remained loyal to Bligh serving as his private chaplain and declined to officiate publicly while the Governor remained a prisoner. He denounced the rebel administration to Castlereagh and with William Gore, John Palmer and the Campbell family signed an address of loyalty to Bligh. He was restored to his situation by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1810 and went to England with Governor Bligh to testify at Lieutenant-Colonel George Johnston’s court martial. On his return to the colony in May 1812 he was retained in Sydney until in June 1814 when he was made resident chaplain in charge of Castlereagh and Richmond.

He remained active until his death at Castlereagh in 1840 and is buried in the cemetery there. William Freame goes on to say “We climb through a broken fence and find that time and bush fires have played havoc with the old graves over which brambles are growing, showing the Castlereagh pioneers with the names of MacHenry, Fraser, Single, Hadley, Field, Herbert and Rope”. The drawing of the original Anglican Castlereagh Church was authenticated by the Late Alfred Colless and Michael Long who were familiar with the building during its later years.

Source: Trove, Australian Royalty, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Holroyd Council.

Contact Michelle for Pre-Planning & Pre-Paid Funerals 1300 HEVNLY (1300 438 659)

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Ask the Expert - Lifestyle Likely To Win Over Location

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

26

W

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

ith predictions leaning to an inevitable economic downturn, it may seem unfortunate timing to consider selling your home. With economists predicting a potential 30% decrease in property prices, options and opportunity seem to have given way to doom and gloom.

With word of a mass exodus of city-dwellers making the move to more rural climes, it is a good time to consider, how does this impact us?

Agents across all states are recording an increase in buyer interest outside of major metropolitan areas. With city rental vacancy rates skyrocketing and buyers eyeing more balanced lifestyle, Penrith may just be the perfect place to be. But location doesn’t outweigh all other considerations, and sellers will have to manage their expectations at this tricky time. But with buyers making their move, there is still reason to be hopeful.

Financially, the ball is back in buyer’s court, after so many years of being priced out of the market, but this can still bode well for sellers.

Balanced with a significant increase in buyers looking to relocate, low interest rates remaining favourable for buyers, and an abundance of buyers still shopping, this is still a suitable time for locals to sell. Since on-site auctions and open houses again became available to vendors, we have seen a subtle increase in sellers willing to put their homes to market.

Luckily for us, we have chosen to live in a lifestyle area. Once only a dream for many, now people are contemplating their current situations, calculating their priorities, and finally taking the plunge to rearrange their lives and seek out balanced living.

With work/life equilibrium well and truly askew, people can now look ahead and create a long-term lifestyle choice that, for many, means leaving big city life behind.

So with so much on offer in our beautiful area, we can hope this holds us in good stead in an uncertain market. Lifestyle will likely win over location in the coming months, and that looks like a bright future to us.

Raine & Horne Commercial Penrith shines at NSW/ACT State Awards

R

aine & Horne Commercial Penrith continues to grow in strength by being recognised and awarded at Raine & Horne NSW State Awards.

Keiran McGarity, Senior Sales & Leasing Consultant, was awarded Top Commercial Agent Leasing Value, 3rd Place. Throughout his career, Keiran has established himself as one of the leading commercial agents in the local area by negotiating many high value deals to ensure optimal results for his vendors.

Gavin Shatford, Manager of Sales and Investments, was presented 3rd place as Top Sales Person Commercial Value. Gavin has a strong client network and database including high net worth individuals, investors across all property types, property trusts and specialist databases featuring national contacts, banks, administrators, medical institutions, recreational and development groups both private and corporate.

Alicia Sanderson, Portfolio Manager, was recognised and awarded as Property Manager of the year – Commercial. With over 21 years industry experience, Alicia is a dedicated Portfolio Manager that oversees of management of three neighbourhood shopping centres in New South Wales and Queensland. Alicia’s role encompasses not only the daily management of the centres, but also the mentoring, guidance and leadership of a team of 11 employees.

Raine and Horne Commercial Penrith was established in December 1991 to specialise in commercial, industrial and retail shopping centre sales, leasing and management. Today, the office employs 34 commercial real estate professionals in New South Wales and Queensland and is one of the largest, and most highly skilled, commercial real estate practices in the Raine and Horne Commercial

(L-R) Keiran McGarity, Liz Turai & Alicia Sanderson

Network. The office provides experience, knowledge and services that were historically only available from the Corporate CBD agencies.

To learn more about Raine & Horne Commercial and view properties available for purchase or lease, visit rhcommercial.com.au/penrith or call the office on 4722 8500.

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

28

LOCAL NEWS

Richmond Club steps up community assistance through crisis

W

e often look at clubs as entertainment venues that make lots and lots of money, but one thing the community is often not aware of is the amount of community work that is done on the sidelines.

And despite being effectively closed by government restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Richmond Club has stepped up its service to the community.

Putting together care packages available to families and the elderly, welfare car transport and contactless delivery or takeaway food services are just some of the things that the club has been doing during these unprecedented times.

Their assistance has extended to also looking after local charities and the business community. Kimberley Talbot is the CEO and explained further.

“We have not ‘shut our doors’ to the community in a time of greatest need.” she said.

The true spirit of a community club – mateship, help and support is the mantra that Ms Talbot and the Board of Directors adhere to. These principles were the ones that the founding service men and women first established on opening the club.

www.richmondclub.com.au

“We’re there, because we care, in both good times and hard times to keep our community going during this crisis, unfortunately some other clubs are not stepping up,” Ms Talbot says. “While we cannot deliver our full range of operating services during the pandemic, we can still provide welfare assistance and adapt our food services to continue to partly trade in line with stringent safe practices and government guidelines, albeit at a loss in a time with no revenue coming in.

“It’s a really tough time, but we’ve managed to keep staff employed through Job Keeper across the club, the golf club and Hawkesbury Living aged care. We’re so proud of this, it is the right thing to do despite the increasing costs we’re incurring as we cannot fully trade.”

Here’s just a few of the things the club has been doing: • Supporting local businesses – Pink Finss Charity, welfare care and car transport to oncology and specialist appointments; partnered with Donut King to keep it producing local products and employment; • Door-to-door welfare car services for medical appointments. Call: 0438 966 100; • Providing care essentials packages; • Subsidised senior meal specials

home delivered through the Golf Club bistro; • Home delivering $15,000 of prizes to winners in their virtual Easter Egg draw; • Keeping staff employed with Job Keeper assistance, and ensuring they are COVID-19 infection control health certified; • Keeping historic Richmond Golf Course open, which gives 70 veteran members, and social golfers, a place to play; • Hawkesbury Living aged care employing more Richmond NOVA staff to assist in cleaning and infection control procedures; • Contactless delivery and pickup of dinner meals available through Villaggio bistro; • Now dine-in at Villaggio, in keeping with easing of stage 1 pandemic restrictions; • Virtual members draw: Stash the Cash $200 to win every Monday when you order a home delivery, take away or dine-in at Villaggio; • New mega Mums and Dads raffle as well as commencing Bingo when they reopen.

“I’m so proud of our club and staff. We continue to be there for the community through thick and thin,”

Ms Talbot said. “The hospitality and entertainment industries are taking a big hit since social isolation restrictions were imposed, but Richmond Club is still here and will continue to be for some time.”

“Social isolation is a major issue for everyone at this time, and tackling it is what community clubs do best. We will continue to be an essential part of support in our community, because now clubs are needed more than ever.”

PENRITH PANTHERS

W

The V’landys Way

e have received a lesson in leadership and organisational excellence from Peter V’landys since Australia was swept up in the Covid-19 pandemic. From the original shutdown of the competition in March right through until the recommencement of the competition tonight in late May there has been challenge after challenge placed in front of the Rugby League commission chairman.

Most of these challenges arising from within the game; player misconduct, referee strikes, financial incompetence, a lack of assets and rainy day funds to get the game through difficult times.

The leadership of the game has for decades lacked authority, integrity and intelligence. This is hopefully now a distant memory as we become the first sport in Australia and one of the first sports across the globe to begin in the wake of the worldwide medical crisis. V’landys has made no apologies for the decisions which have been swift

and have caused some pain across club land and in at NRL head office. We have seen good people lose their jobs, we have seen incompetent people lose their jobs and there has been fat trimmed across the board which was well overdue.

Rugby League was never going to be immune to the widespread cost of this economic crisis for the game, there is a misconception that this is a medical issue, which is partly true and is more relevant for the wider and general population like us. But for Rugby League players this is an economic crisis like none seen before, the players wages were threatened with the game paused and no real defined restart in sight. Hopefully this is the near death experience the game needed. V’landys has worked tirelessly with no interest in the outside noise, just a clear and focused work ethic to get the next job done. Rugby League owes him a great debt and hopefully he continues to repair and rebuild the

29

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

game with the same organisational excellent and leadership for many years to come.

With the competition restarting tonight I think it is important to reset our predictions and overall thoughts around how this premiership will play out over the next five months. Originally I had predicted the Rabbitohs to win the competition this year. Throw that prediction in the bin, off field incidents are almost a certain end to premiership chances not to mention multiple off field incidents and injuries. We also need to take into account the impact of one referee and the new six again rule with minor infringements will have on how the game is played and what make up of team this will benefit the most. It is going to have an impact, how significant and who this will benefit remains to be seen. But I predict: Storm, Raiders, Broncos, Roosters, Panthers, Knights, Eels and Manly to make up the Top 8.

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Coach’s Corner

SPORT

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has named his side to face Newcastle Knights at Campbelltown Stadium on Sunday

Dean Whare is set to celebrate his 150th NRL appearance. Photo Penrith Panthers

1. Caleb AEKINS - sponsored by CC Tyres Penrith 2. Josh MANSOUR - sponsored by MKJ Projects 3. Dean WHARE - sponsored by Potter Automotive 4. Brent NADEN - sponsored by Penrith Toyota 5. Brian TO’O - sponsored by Soneta Plumbing 6. Matt BURTON - sponsored by Hertz 7. Jarome LUAI - sponsored by Chemtools 8. James TAMOU (c) - sponsored by Protech Locksmiths 9. Api KOROISAU - sponsored by Cetnaj Wetherill Park 10. James FISHER-HARRIS - sponsored by Chardon & Abbott Home Loans

11. Viliame KIKAU - sponsored by Hix Group 12. Kurt CAPEWELL - sponsored by AMA Event Management 13. Isaah YEO - sponsored by Casella Express 14. Stephen CRICHTON - sponsored by Signace 15. Zane TETEVANO - sponsored by Wisdom Denture and Dental Clinic 16. Moses LEOTA - sponsored by Fornari’s Interior Linings 17. Liam MARTIN - sponsored by Wright Way Plumbing & Civil 18. Mitch KENNY - sponsored by Stylus Blinds 19. Billy BURNS - sponsored by Southlands Estate Agents 20. Kaide ELLIS - sponsored by OAK Plus 21. Charlie STAINES - sponsored by Brightside Music

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Celebrity ROUND 3

ROUND 4

BRI NQC SYD NZW CRO MEL PAN MAN BRI pan MEL PAR NQC CAN GCT BUL PAR GCT SOU STG WES CAN NEW BUL SYD nzw SOU MAN CRO NEW WES STG May 28 7.50pm

May 29 6.00pm

May 29 7.55pm

May 30 3.00pm

May 30 5.30pm

May 30 7.35pm

May 31 4.05pm

May 31 6.30pm

June 4 7.50pm

June 5 6.00pm

June 5 7.55pm

June 6 5.30pm

June 6 7.35pm

June 7 4.05pm

June 7 6.30pm

June 8 4.05pm

SCORE

Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets

22 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

22 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 9912 2000

24 Captain Chris - Nepean Belle - 4733 1274

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

26 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

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

20 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

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

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

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

24

Come join the family

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TIPSTERS ROUND 3

ROUND 4

BRI NQC SYD NZW CRO MEL PAN MAN BRI pan MEL PAR NQC CAN GCT BUL PAR GCT SOU STG WES CAN NEW BUL SYD nzw SOU MAN CRO NEW WES STG May 28 7.50pm

May 29 6.00pm

May 29 7.55pm

May 30 3.00pm

May 30 5.30pm

May 30 7.35pm

May 31 4.05pm

May 31 6.30pm

June 4 7.50pm

June 5 6.00pm

June 5 7.55pm

June 6 5.30pm

June 6 7.35pm

June 7 4.05pm

June 7 6.30pm

June 8 4.05pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News Columnist and Owner of MG Activ

24 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

26 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

24 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

20 Scott Moore - Electra Cables - 0439 021 368

22 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

20 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

32 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

24 Bradley George - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977

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

24 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

18

“Where you can be you”

mgactiv.com.au

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

32

SPORT

Tex’s tales with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker It certainly has been a wave of emotions over the past few months, and I sincerely hope you have come through the challenges Covid-19 presented.

Spending more time with family and not worrying about getting to work on time, traffic, running the kids around and meeting appointments, has been a good thing in my eyes.

Netflix has been getting a smashing and the board games, BBQ’s and chats around the fire have been therapeutic.

Again I hope you have/will be strong with whatever has/is thrown at you.

The Footy is back, purely on the back of one of the finest and toughest sports administrators in Peter V’landys.

I know Peter well, I worked under him for 4 years at Harold Park Trots in the 90’s.

He is an intimidating person and knows what he wants.

Creating success can mean you won’t win many friends, and Peter doesn’t care, he just wants to get the job done and it doesn’t matter what’s in his way.

Peter has got balls, his outlook is to make his organisation and product a raging success.

The proof is in the pudding by successfully keeping all three codes of racing afloat by forcing corporate bookmakers to pay fees to utilise the respective NSW race fields.

V’landys led the way, harness racing hopped on their back and grabbed a free ride. If not harness racing would be lucky to be alive today.

Fact is, in sports administration, there are very few people with the passion and win at all costs attitude than Peter, he is a breath of fresh for the game and will make things happen.

The one referee rule implemented from Round 3 will see an open and fast paced game.

Now the question remains, which teams and coaches are going to adapt the best?

With the wrestle not as potent, I believe it has opened the competition right up.

I can’t see the Storm or Roosters being too happy with the change, as they dominate in slowing down the game with the wrestle.

Look for the speedsters of the game to become more prominent.

BORN TO BE A STAR P

anthers teen sensation Stephen Crichton is a man of many talents, and at one stage, Rugby League was not his strong side.

At age 15, Crichton was playing in the third team at St Pat’s College Blacktown and was not under the notice of coaching staff or talent scouts.

In fact, Crichton, who commenced schooling at ‘Patties’ in year seven was an outstanding musician and a promising basketballer.

Music Teacher Karen Davidson said that Crichton was the best drummer she had ever seen.

“I loved playing the drums and basketball was great fun also,” said Chrichton.

“At the time I enjoyed basketball more than football and when I was asked to try out for reps I couldn’t as it clashed with the league finals.”

Following a season in the under 15’s, Crichton started to grow and became more co -ordinated which saw him enter the firsts team at age 16.

St Pat’s Coach of nine years, Greg Beacroft, was impressed with the short turnaround in development.

“He certainly was a late bloomer, that’s for sure,” said Beacroft.

“He had a good 16’s season and I was looking forward to the following year in the senior schoolboys competitions.”

Playing SG Ball for Penrith, Crichton stood out.

“This was a defining year for Crichton, said Beacroft.

“I asked him to play in the combined schools MCS team and he looked at me and said, ‘Sir I don’t think I’m good enough’.”

“Stephen was the first one picked amongst the selectors and it was at this moment that he realised he has the ability to go a long way in the game.”

As a student, Stephen was a tremendous footballer,” said St Pat’s Year 12 Co - Ordinator Dom Cullen.

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Crichton is set to take over the kicking duties in the absence of Nathan Cleary.

“He is a vibrant lad and full of character. Stephen was a pleasure to have around, he brought a good vibe to the place. His mind was on sports and that’s where he was always going to end up, we are very proud of him at St Pats.”

Crichton was born in Samoa and at the age of two moved to New Zealand before settling in Mt Druitt where he still lives today with Mum Gogosina and Dad Va’a.

The youngster has five brothers, a sister and appreciates what life has presented to him.

“I’m motivated by how fortunate I have become through football,” said Crichton.

“If I have a bad day I look back at the struggle growing up and how hard it was for mum and dad before I came along. It can be easy for people to feel sorry for themselves, but I am in a good space so when I feel down I look at life in a positive manner and it helps me get through.

“If I can pass on a positive outlook, I keep telling myself that there is always light at the end of a dark tunnel.”

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SPORT

with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker

Stephen Crichton with Panther team mate Spencer Leniu following a victory with St Pats Blacktown in 2018.

Crichton’s father is a Pastor at the local Church and spends a lot of his down time with his family and the church.

On many occasions he has been described as a young Israel Folau, and that’s just fine by him.

“I model my game on Israel, I look up to him in many ways, as a footballer, a person and our faith,” he said.

“Israel uses his height and that’s something I can make the most of, it’s not an advantage that many footballers have. I just aim to be the best at what I am doing and Israel provides that inspiration.”

Crichton played his junior footy as a centre, but is most versatile in also being able to play fullback and wing. He is an outstanding goal kicker and has been given the back up role for when Nathan

Cleary is not a part of the first grade team.

“I love kicking, I embrace the pressure that comes with it,” said Crichton.

His fondest schoolboy memory was the senior grand final against Westfield Sports High in 2018.

St Pat’s had just scored in the corner to level the game and the full time siren was imminent.

With the opposition crowd jeering, yelling, blowing horns and throwing debris on the field, Crichton was under immense pressure.

“I’ll never forget it for the rest of my life, I hit it sweetly and it sailed over and gave us the grand final win,” he said.

“I remember vividly the goosebumps, and the St Pats crowd going wild, it would be a dream for that to happen in the NRL one day.”

Crichton, not only pays his respects to St Pats for landing where he is today but Panthers Assistant Coach Ben Harden instilled the confidence into the one time timid youngster.

“For a long time I didn’t have confidence in Rugby League. My brother Christian was playing first grade and many people were saying I was only getting a run because of my brother. I never believed in myself but Ben had faith and selected me to play without a trial for the Panthers SG Ball team. Ben made me realise my potential, he was always providing the positivity required and brought the best out in me. I thank him for what he did every day.”

Coach Ivan Cleary has some big decisions on his hands, as Crichton is improving so much and so quickly he is warranting a spot in the run-on team.

He has been a standout for the Panthers in 2020, albeit coming off the bench in the first two rounds.

And, it’s fair to say, if Crichton didn’t play the way he did, Penrith wouldn’t have grabbed victories on each occasion.

The world is at the feet of Crichton, still filling out like a young three-year-old colt primed to reach his peak.

Many good judges have a big opinion of Crichton, and I’m personally of the belief, State of Origin and rep honours are beckoning in 2-3 years time.

I am a huge fan of Panther Stephen Crichton and he is our feature story this week.

Crichton is developing into one of the game’s finest. With Nathan Cleary suspended for his Tik Tok exploits, look for coach Ivan to select Crichton in the starting 13. He will also take up the goal kicking duties after tuition from Cleary and ex New Zealand, Bears and Bulldogs sharp shooter Daryl Halligan.

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

Tex’s tales

33

The biggest problem we face in the short term is the NRL playing in front of empty seats and I applaud the July 1 date set to have fans back through the gates.

If this is not the case I have fears that the lack of atmosphere will decrease interest in the competition. Certainly the first few weeks will satisfy the recent game starvation, but if still no crowds down the track, I’d suggest interest will have dwindled somewhat. Fingers crossed we can get back in the stands sooner rather than later.

The mighty Panthers will be looking to make it three from three when they take on Mitchell Pearce’s Newcastle Knights on Sunday afternoon at Campbelltown.

As mentioned the task will be a tough one without Nathan Cleary, but i’m expecting a big match from Jerome Luai who will be given an open license to take control and play his natural game.

The 15 man game of Rugby has hit an all time low. CEO Raelene Castle has been sacked and deservedly so. Unfortunately she didn’t seem to handle things well which cost the game millions.

The Israel Folau fall-out, over staffing and no agreement with Television rights, has left the game with little in the bank.

Rugby League should be somewhat nervous as the Rugby Australia situation is a perfect challenge for Peter V’landys. They would be mad at least not to pick up the phone and ask the question.

Have you spotted a celeb in the local area or wish to submit a comment or have a tale to tell? Send an email to infotexfit@gmail.com or follow twitter @texy71.

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Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

34

SPORT

Local golf’s high achievers

By Noel Rowsell

O

ur 3rd instalment in our Series on 2019 Club Champions from our local Golf Clubs, features two extraordinarily talented players from Twin Creeks CC.

Justin McMillan is at the peak of his golfing prowess and has been the dominant male player at Twin Creeks for the past 4 years.

Darcy Mackay is a sensational young talent, who has already made an impact in International Junior Golf.

Photos supplied by Twin Creeks CC

Justin McMillan - Age: 26 1. Years playing golf: 16 2. Starting handicap: 25 3. Current handicap: + 2 4. Major Achievements: Twin Creeks CC Club Champion 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019 (Runner up 2014 and 2016); Dunheved GC Club Champion 2015 ( Runner up to brother Chris McMillan in 2016 and 2017); Twin Creeks CC Matchplay Champion 2 times; Dunheved GC Matchplay champion 2 times; Twin Creeks CC Foursomes champion 2 times; 2020 South Creek Champion; 2020 Glenmore Cup Champion; 2019 and 2020 Twin Creeks CC Major Pennant Team member (Plays Number 1); member of the 2017 Dunheved GC Division 3 Major Pennant winning team; 7 seasons with Dunheved GC Major Pennant Team 5. What’s in the bag: Driver - Titleist 910 D3; 3 wood - King Cobra; Driving Iron – Srixon; 4 Iron – PW Titleist 710 CB; Other Wedges: SW, 54°, 60° - Taylor Made; Putter – Cleveland.

6. Future aspirations: To continue playing Pennants at a high level and compete in as many Vardon events as possible.

7. Favourite Club in the bag: Srixon Driving Iron.

8. Biggest highlight of their golf life to date: Winning the Twin Creeks CC Club Championship 3 years in a row.

Darcy MacKay - Age: 12 1. Years playing golf - 4 years 2.

Starting handicap - 26 3.

Current handicap - 5 4.

Major Achievements: Twin Creeks CC 2019 Junior Boys Club Champion; Winner 2018 US Kids Golf Summer Tour; Qualified to play in The 2019 US Kids Golf World Championships in the USA; Won 11 years Boys 2019 Jack Newton Junior Golf Harvey Norman Sydney Week of Golf; Member of the 2018 Encourage Shield with Stonecutter’s Ridge GC; Member of the 2019 Junior Pennants with Stonecutter’s Ridge GC; Twin Creeks CC ‘Top Gun 2019’ Runner up.

5. What’s in the bag: Driver - Taylormade M2; 3 wood - Taylormade M2; Hybrid - Cleveland Halo; Driving Iron – Srixon ZU 85; 5 iron-PW Srixon Z545; 50° wedge - Cleveland 588 RTX; 54° wedge - Titleist Vokey SM6; 60° wedge - Titleist Vokey SM5; Putter - Taylormade Spider Tour; Ball - Taylormade TP5; Shoes – Adidas; Glove – Footjoy.

6. Future aspirations: To work hard at school and continue to improve my golf game, attend a College in the USA and eventually become a Professional Golfer.

7. Favourite Club in the bag: Driver 8. Biggest highlight of their golf life to date. Travelling with my family to the USA last year and being a part of the ‘US Kids Golf World Championships’.

Local Clubs Resume Bid for Major Pennant Title

By Noel Rowsell

T

he 2020 Metropolitan Men’s and Women’s Major Pennant Semi-finals and Finals are back on the calendar and local clubs Penrith GC and Twin Creeks, along with Springwood CC, will all be keen to be back in action and contesting the playoff series.

Golf NSW were faced with no other option back in March but to postpone the semi-finals and finals, as Social Gathering restrictions due to the COVID-19 crisis came into full effect.

Due to further ongoing but slightly relaxed restrictions, Golf NSW has made changes to the venues and format for the Playoffs.

The semi-final contests for all men’s and women’s divisions will now be held in a home-and-away format, with the matches taking place on Sunday 6th September and Sunday 20th September respectively.

The Major Pennant Finals will now be held at Riverside Oaks Golf resort on Monday, 5 October.

Penrith GC’s Major Pennant squad, which will contest the Golf NSW Playoff Series. Photo supplied by Penrith GC

In the event State Government Health Restrictions are still in place by then, alternative dates for the semi and finals have been made, beginning Sunday 8th November for the semis, with the final to be held on Sunday 6th December.

General Manager of Golf Mr Graeme Phillipson

was thrilled to announce the resumption of the 2020 Metropolitan Major Pennant Competition.

“As the COVID crisis eases, it is our intention to resume our tournament schedule with a minimum of disruption as possible.”

“The COVID crisis has tested the resolve of all of us, not only in NSW but across Australia and the resilience and patience of all golfers, not only those involved in the playoffs for the Metropolitan Major Pennant but to anyone who is a participant in the sport, has been wonderful,” Mr Phillipson said.

Semi Final Draws (MEN): Division Two: Round 1 on 6th September Oatlands GC vs Penrith GC @ Oatlands GC, North Ryde GC vs Twin Creeks CC @ North Ryde GC; Round 2 on 20th September - Penrith GC vs Oatlands GC @ Penrith GC, Twin Creeks CC vs North Ryde GC @ Twin Creeks.

Division 3: Round 1 on 6th September Cumberland CC vs Springwood CC @ Cumberland CC; Round 2 - 20th September on Springwood CC vs Cumberland CC @ Springwood CC.

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

We have liftoff! Rugby league is back baby!

A

fter nearly 9 weeks of hibernation due to the pandemic lockdown, somehow quite extraordinarily, the NRL is back tonight (Thursday) can you believe it? I know I can’t!

The hurdles the game has faced in the past couple of months have been like meteorites rocketing to earth and all the game could do is dodge, weave, and evade in hope that nothing would derail where we sit today.

There was the player payment issue, the social distancing dramas, the flu shot fiasco, the karate kick controversy, the refs threatening to strike, rule changes, etc etc... but almost unfathomably here we are, about to continue this shortened season of 2020 with the Eels and Broncos kicking off from where we last sat. Amazing.

I wrote last column about how I thought that without Peter V’Landys at the helm we wouldn’t even be close to touching the steeden balls of the NRL, such has been his dedication and foresight in pushing on when most thought he couldn’t. But the players and their clubs must also take a big pat on the back.

Whilst most of the country is waking from its slumber, the players and coaching staff of each team are still in basic lockdown. The liberties greeting most of us aren’t afforded to the players who are about to give us back our game. They still have to adhere to strict protocols whilst living in an almost dome environment of up to only 30 people and having next to

 Project Apollo, we have NRL liftoff

no contact with the ‘outside world’.

Massive sacrifice, especially from the NZ Warriors who left everything behind to make sure the entire 16 clubs of the NRL are going to be represented in this 18 week straight revised comp.

And now not only is the footy

about to kickstart but Mr V’Landys is now talking about having games with crowds by July! Obviously there would be revised attendances and lots of hoops to jump through before then but if he says it I’m not going to argue, every single thing he’s said from his

very first press conference has come to fruition.

In Peter we trust!

See you at the game (hopefully sooner than first thought)

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 28 May 2020 Issue 278

on the

SPORT 35 35 35

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