09-06-22

Vol 12 No 24

P O Box 116 CAMDEN NSW 2570 Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897 [email protected]

Monday, June 22, 2009

New homes, but the same roads By Michael Rees

Premier Nathan Rees and Camden MP Geoff Corrigan at the Landcom office at Mt Annan.

Building workers constructing new homes at Mt Anann

NSW Premier Nathan Rees stepped from his car at an Mt Annan construction site looking relaxed and confident in the wake of his government's decision to cut stamp duty on house construction, the centre piece of the recent State Budget. But the NSW Opposition claims there is a lack of funding and planning in the budget to provide new roads and rail services for new homebuyers can get to and from work and relieve the congestion on south west Sydney's chocked up motorways. According to Mr Rees from, July 1 families buying newly constructed homes will benefit from a 50 per cent stamp duty cut resulting in savings of up to $11,245. He said the government has made a $64 million commitment to generate activity in the housing industry in areas like Mt Annan. These initiatives will have a flow on effect in sustaining small business and local employment. The first homebuyers grant will be extended to 2010 and families can save up to $41,990 with these schemes which are the most generous in the country. Joining Mr Rees and the Mt Annan building site were prospective new home builders Alicia and Nathan Sandles and a large media contingent. In the background the earth moving machines and the tradesman in their lime green vest and helmets were hard at work showing little interest as the Premier and Camden MP Geoff Corrigan strolled around in the glare of the television cameras and lights. With this part of the deal done the entourage adjourned to the local Landcom Office for a press conference. Mr Rees faced the media with Nathan and Alicia Sandles and local member Geoff Corrigan covering the flanks. . When questioned about local infrastructure he said that 50 buses had been purchased for the south west, funds would be made available for additional council car parking in Campbelltown and $27 million has been budgeted for roads. He said the government "wanted to build as many homes as they can". In response to concerns about local Infrastructure the State MP, Mr

Corrigan said that work on the Glenfield Rail line was starting soon. He said many people from Camden travel into the city each day by train but he doesn't receive complaints anymore because of "on time train travel". With Camden being the largest growth area in Sydney and with 250,000 people expected to move in during the next 30 years Camden mayor, councillor, Chris Patterson has concerns with transport. "I welcome anything that makes home ownership more affordable. But the government has reneged on infrastructure. There is nothing substantial in the budget for upgrades to Camden Valley Way." In response to the Glenfield rail line Mr Patterson said, it was the ninth time he had heard about the work going to start. "The cost of this has gone from $300 million to $1.2 billion. With all these future suburbs going in, all our planning is about linking roads and transport to the rail line. It is unfathomable that this should not get the number one priority ahead of other projects like the Metro Rail." The NSW Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Western Sydney, Barry O'Farrell said, new homebuyers needed to know about transport options. "No doubt Mr Rees needs to explain how these new homebuyers in the South West Growth Area are supposed to get to work. "No doubt Mr Rees will be selling his stamp duty concessions but people buying new homes on the south west have no way to get to work with no major new funding for road or rail projects to assist them." Mr O'Farrell added that the budget has hidden data which shows that there will be no improvement in traveling to and from work. "Travel times are expected to remain at 30 kilometres per hour in morning peak and 41 kilometres per hour in the evening peak." Shadow Minister for Roads, Andrew Stoner also questioned the government's priorities, "With no funding for construction of the M5 widening, duplication of the entire stretch of Camden Valley Way and no new public transport options the bad news is drivers will continue to crawl along the regions choked motorways with no hope for improvement."

New houses need transport options The Premier Nathan Rees had his job cut out for him last week - trying to selling the NSW Budget. While new home owners are certainly the big winners - let's face it - with the amount of grants, cuts to stamp duty and historically low interest rates - it has never been a good time to buy property some would say. The former NSW Planning Minister, Frank Sartor, when announcing the South West Sydney Growth Centre, he said that before any sod is turned in the new residential area infrastructure will be in place. Unfortunately that hasn't happened yet. Mt Annan might not technically be in the new growth area, but the land there is quickly being developed and new streets are popping up. When trying to locate the street the Premier was supposed to at last week - the 2008 street directory didn't have it marked down. In these areas the houses are being earmarked and the streets developed and unfortunately the infrastructure isn't. It certainly has a lot to do with the State Government's declining stamp duty revenue and so on - money is undoubtedly tight and the south west once again misses out on important infrastructure. There is no question that the creation of jobs is important, but so is quality of life and if people have to spend hours travelling to and from work it impacts on family and health. Creating local jobs and encouraging existing industries to grow is one answer, this allows people shorter travelling distances, but ultimately providing a reliable transport system is another. The NSW Opposition has jumped on its soap box and it said it will build the South West Rail Link in response to Mr Rees apparent disregard for local communities if it's elected in 2011. The Leppington rail line is at this moment is not needed - the population does not warrant it. It's the people in Mt Annan and surrounds who are in desperate need of transport alternatives. Lee Abrahams, Editor

Letters to the editor

Dig a little deeper for right answers

Once again I feel the need, regretfully, to write and correct some assertions by Mr Greg Frawley in your last edition ('Looking closely at spending', June 15, 2009). Once again, I would point out that I have no concerns with Mr Frawley, or any other citizen expressing their views publicly, indeed the council has consistently encouraged just that process. However, Mr Frawley has made two statements that are untrue and misleading and they need to be corrected. Firstly, Mr Frawley is correct in identifying that council recently purchased a property in Turner Road at Currans Hill. He is, however, completely incorrect in suggesting that it is an "investment property". The property was the subject of a public open space zoning over 80 per cent of its area and the owners invoked a hardship clause in state legislation that compelled the council to acquire the land quite well in advance of when it might otherwise have done so. It has been purchased for future recreational purposes. Given the nature of the request for early acquisition it is not appropriate to publicly discuss the finer details of the purchase, however, the resolution to acquire the property is publicly recorded in the minutes of the council meeting and council's land register is a public document and is available

for public scrutiny. In the matter of the P&N Softdrinks development, Mr Frawley is completely wrong and any rudimentary investigation would have alerted him to that fact. As a designated development under the state planning legislation, the applicant had the choice of having council assess the application or for it to be decided by the Minister for Planning. The developer was well aware of this and actively promoted the application to the Department of Planning with council simply assisting with as much background material as possible. The Minister for Planning refused to approve the application. Council staff subsequently worked with P&N to identify a suitable site that wouldn't suffer from the constraints that lead to the Planning Minister's refusal of the first application. In broadcasting this erroneous story Mr Frawley does the councillors and council staff working with P&N a grave disservice, as well as calling into question the professionalism of the company itself. I regret the need for such a rebuttal of these matters but feel the need to correct these mis-statements as they do not reflect the truth. Greg Wright General Manager Camden Council

If you would like to send a Letter to the Editor, please keep your letter to a reasonable length, 200 words is preferred. Letters can be edited for space or legal reasons. Address all correspondence To the Editor, The District Reporter, PO Box 116, Camden 2570.

Brian Stewart The 2009 State Budget Camden is a big loser in the 2009 NSW State Budget. Treasurer Roozendall, who hails from the wealthy Eastern Suburbs, has thrown a few pieces of silver our way, but that's all. When questioned about it in the Parliament he couldn't even bring himself to mention the word 'C-a-m-d-e-n'. Such is his arrogance. NSW has been the major beneficiary of an era of unprecedented prosperity under the Howard-Costello Coalition Government. Their reforms to our taxation and industrial relations system together with booming property and gambling taxes should have established NSW as the premier state. But instead of investing in the necessary infrastructure to support economic and social development they spent like drunken sailors on spin doctors, a bloated public service and an inefficient trade union movement. Now they are blaming everything on the 'GFC' (Global Financial Crisis). If the trains run late - it's 'the GFC'! If you're stuck in a traffic jam - it's 'the GFC'! If you can't get a hospital bed - it's 'the GFC'! If there is a drive-by shooting in Lakemba it's 'the GFC'! If your footy team gets beaten - it's the GFC'! It used to be 'working families'. Now it's 'the GFC! The much touted 'South West Growth Centre' is set to become a 'South West Ghetto' because there will not be the sufficient infrastructure to support the new city area. They are going to plonk houses all over the hills without even a railway station to service them. It is a travesty. There is nothing planned to ease congestion on the M5. The M5 funnel will continue to choke the traffic flow and consign Camden motorists to a daily dawdle in and out of the city. There is absolutely no hope of relief for motorists on the M5 under Labor. Get used to it. There is nothing planned for Camden Valley Way and Narellan Road. The neglect of these two arteries into and out of Camden by this Labor government has been a disgrace. Remember the hoax about the Maternity Ward at Camden Hospital? Premier Bob Carr announced it just before an election. Then he closed it as soon as Labor was re-elected. It remained closed under the Iemma-Costa Labor Government and will stay closed under the Rees-Roozendall black-comedy act. NSW was once the Premier State with a booming surplus. It is now an economic basket-case with the largest level of debt we have ever had. Kicking our largest trading partner in the shins to placate the unions will ensure it gets much worse before it even looks like getting better. Local member, Geoff Corrigan, is right. Labor is living in a parallel universe. 2 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

Eric Rosendaal is Australia's best and brightest State Treasurer at the moment and the state and national media gave the Tuesday State Budget the thumbs up immediately it was released. Because of the economic downturn, economists were expecting a $2 billion dollar deficit and the Treasurer has halved that figure while at the same time slashing stamp duty for first home buyers in the hope of kick starting the economy through the building industry. The Treasurer has also predicted the budget will be in surplus in just two years with an optimistic economic forecast for New South Wales. The positive responses from both media and economists are in stark contrast to the negative campaign that has been run against the New South Wales Government from the Opposition. It also marks the end of comments from state and federal oppositions which claim Labor are talking the economy down. Both governments are operating in sync in attacking the economic downturn and both have identified that the building industry is the best way to protect jobs in Australia. First home buyers can now qualify to receive more than $40,000 of assistance when building their new home. For the past two years the State Opposition has unfairly attacked the Labor Government's economic credentials when there was little the Government could do to prevent the fall out from the world's financial crisis. The NSW Labor Government has however maintained its 'AAA' credit rating which means our State is still financially secure, contrary to the misinformation spread in the media. New South Wales is the financial centre but not the resources centre of Australia. This means during the resources boom, NSW missed out on the big money and when the world financial crisis started, we were the first state to lose jobs in the financial sector; however our future now appears more secure than other states. This is not an issue which can be blamed or credited to politicians of the current era. Running a small state deficit in these tough times is necessary to assist the economy and jobs. It will not be sufficient to completely shelter us from the international storm, we will get wet but it would be far worse if both national and state governments were running surpluses. Economic stimulus early in a downturn will soften the fall and will result in a quicker recovery and the quicker the recovery the quicker governments are able to again run surplus budgets. The only disappointment locally is that the proposed Leppington rail link has been deferred, but this rail network is designed to assist commuters north of Narellan and does little for the majority. It now appears that the new Oran Park development will not proceed on time unless developers are prepared to drop prices and this means the State Government may be right to defer extending the rail line for a few years.

IF YOU REALLY WANT TO WIN, WHY DON'T YOU CHOOSE TO LOSE? Recently, whilst travelling on a bus, I sat behind two young women who animatedly compared their respective partners. I know it was rude of me to eavesdrop, but they spoke at such high volume! I'm sure I wasn't the only one in the bus listening in. "My man never argues back," one of them proudly proclaimed, "because he knows he'll never win!" They laughed together, and a few of us anonymous passengers smiled secretly at each another. Looking out the window, however, I reflected upon her claim. It was a very hollow boast which revealed a rather serious situation. You see, when it comes to marriage - in fact, when it comes to any personal relationship every time one person wins, both people lose. Playing to win means being certain to lose. This woman was failing to provide a safe place where her partner could voice an opinion or contribute something which might have been constructive to their mutual upbuilding. By playing to win, she was intimidating and humiliating him and, therefore, driving him away. This isn't a gender issue: male or female, any person who can't find a safe place to talk will eventually start looking until they find somewhere where they can! Furthermore, the young woman's determination to win every argument strongly implied that, as far as she was concerned, she's never wrong - she has nothing more to learn. I find that hard to believe. Since none of us has it all together, vulnerability isn't something to be afraid of. Not playing to win, therefore, is a gift of grace we can give to another. And a gift which both can share. [email protected]

Community bank stirs interest Camden and districts could have another bank if some in the community get their way. The idea of a branch of the Bendigo Community Bank, for the people and run by locals, has stirred up a lot on interest in the town and while it is a lengthy process - if it's really wanted it could start up in little over 18 months in the main street. "So that, like over 234 communities Australia-wide, our community will actually own the local branch, achieve greater choice and more competitive banking and retain significant banking profits to support our community's services and facilities," said Marge Ollis, who with her husband Stewart, own a business and are organisers of the initial meetings. Mrs Ollis said if the community wants it has the potential to put the existing banks on notice and could prompt them to lift their game. "But, if the community don't want it won't happen." The couple recall the days when a customer knew their bank manager and if there was a problem it could be sorted out. Nowadays, it is all automated with no room for discussion and the banks' profits are first and foremost of importance and the customers' needs are second place. "With a community bank you have face to face service with people who live in the community and are selected from the community." Mrs Ollis said while the bank is geared to making a profit, it also puts a lot of the money back into the community and each shareholder or shareholders can

Interest in bank: Marge and Stewart Ollis said a community bank in Camden could be an option for people looking for a personalised service and greater competition. only have up to a 10 per cent stake. Another plus of the community bank is when an account holder might have insufficient funds for a cheque to pass - the staff calls before any action is taken. This is a point of consternation among many people and businesses, who believe a phone call, could save a lot of anxiety and exorbitant charges. "Half the people transferring are doing so because of the overdraft penalties…other than that the bank does everything any financial institution does," Mr Ollis said. "We have a lot of people who are interested. "Now we need 20 people on the steering community and they can range from business people, community representatives to sporting club officials," he added. Some examples of benefits flowing from a local branch include:

$50,000 contribution to a paediatric unit at a local health facility; Purchase of sunshades for a primary school; Paying for holidays for people with a disability and their carers; Sponsorship of the South Coast Aerial Patrol; Major funding for an aged care facility; and Support for a student award program. The bank is also likely to have longer trading hours to suit the needs of the local community - including Saturday mornings. To hear more about the Community Bank®, a meeting will be held on July 16 at 6pm at the office of the federal MP for Macarthur, Pat Farmer, at 47 Argyle Street, which was offered at no charge to hold the meeting. To find out more or nominate for the Steering Committee, contact Marge Ollis on 4655 2281.

Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 3

NSW budget lists major projects in the shire More than $1million in funding will be available for the Appin Sewerage Scheme and ongoing planning for Bargo Sewerage Scheme - these are just some of the some of the projects expected to be delivered in Wollondilly from the NSW Budget. The MP for Wollondilly and NSW Minister, Phil Costa, said it is all about investing in the future of the shire. "The Appin Sewerage Scheme is an important local issue I've been advocating for from day one, so this is a big win for the people of Wollondilly," Mr Costa said. "It's one of several projects included in the NSW Budget that will benefit the local community along with upgrades to roads, transport and schools. "This is a big win for Wollondilly…"

Other projects include: $15.1 million for the construction of Warragamba Dam Crest Gates; $415,000 for upgrades to local schools as part of the Principals Priority Building Program; $10.4 million for maintenance of the Wollondilly road network, including $800,000 for resurfacing of Appin Road at Appin and Kings Fall and $2.2 million for resurfacing of the Hume Highway at various locations; $1.05 million towards the $8 million project to construct a new commuter car park and interchange at CityRail's Macarthur Station; and $2.34 million for upgrades to social housing homes in Wollondilly. "This means jobs for local tradesmen, opportunities for working families, and stimulus for the NSW economy."

Labourer wins share of Lotto draw Wollondilly has once again chalked up another millionaire thanks to Saturday night's $20 million Lotto draw. A 52-year-old labourer won $2.5 million and was very emotional when told of his win yesterday morning. "It's such fantastic news, I can't believe it. My wife is crying, the kids are crying and I'm just about crying," the winner told a NSW Lotteries official on Sunday. "When you're raising four kids on my income there have been plenty of times when there was only $20 in the bank. We've always worried that we won't have a lot to give our kids a little bit later on, now it's just a dream come true." The winner said that he had been experiencing a strong premonition about winning a big prize. "I've just had a funny feeling. Over the last month or so I've been saying to my wife, 'I'm going to win something'. I didn't know whether it would be Lotto, OZ Lotto or what, I just felt like something was going to

happen to me," he said. "It was a happy feeling but nervous at the same time; that I was actually going to win something." Now that his windfall has arrived, the winner plans to pay off the mortgage on the family home, and shop around for a new car. "I've always wanted to buy a brand new car, but I've never been able to afford one, I've always had to buy second hand. I've been a Holden supporter my whole life so I might buy a new Holden Club Sport," he said. The winning entry - a 30 game autopick costing $18.40 - was sold at the Tahmoor. "This is really exciting news to get on a Sunday morning. On behalf of all of the staff at the shop I'd like to say 'best wishes' to the winner," Rene Ghassibe from Tahmoor Newsagency said. "Tahmoor is a pretty close knit community…It's unbelievable that someone here at the shop had a ticket worth $2.5 million in their hands. Not everyone has a job where they make someone a millionaire, it's all in a days work for us," Ms Ghassibe said.

Major projects in the shire For Camden residents the NSW Budget is expected to deliver local jobs, infrastructure and essential frontline services. The MP for Camden, Geoff Corrigan, regards the budget "as the best" since his election to the seat and said it is "a stimulus for Camden and for NSW." Major investments include: $9 million to begin construction on the new $17 million Camden Police Station; $28.1 million for road upgrades and traffic management - $21.3 million for network development, $4.7 million for maintenance of the Camden road network, $2 million for traffic and transport management, and $60,000 for road safety; $2.13 million for community transport services provided through South West Community Transport, providing greater access to regular public transport services for those disadvantaged due to physical, social or geographic reasons; $42,000 towards funds for a new truck for Camden SES Unit; $1.675 million for upgrades to local schools under the Principals Priority Building Program; $17.7 million for the biosecurity upgrade of Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI) at

4 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

Camden; $739,000 for eight full time and one part time Clinical Support Officers for Camden Hospital to enable doctors and nurses to spend less time on paperwork and more time caring for patients; Camden Hospital will benefit as part of the state-wide roll out of digital medical imaging and is due for completion at the end of 2009; and The staff at Camden Hospital will benefit from a new computerised staff rostering system which is due for completion across all of Sydney South West Area Health Service by mid 2011. In the breakdown of the road upgrades - the electorate can expect $5 million to widen Camden Valley Way to four lanes from Cobbitty Road to Narellan Road; $1.8 million for maintenance of traffic lights and signs; $2 million for planning to upgrade Camden Valley Way to four lanes from Cowpasture Road to Cobbitty Road; $725,000 for resurfacing work along Bringelly Road, from Cowpasture Road to South Creek; and $500,000 for planning of the upgrade of Northern Road from Camden Valley Way to Bringelly Road.

Groups want multi-storey development downsized Opposition is mounting to a proposed four storey development on the old Camden High School site. Both the Camden Residents Action Group (CRAG) and Camden Historical Society are calling for the development application to be further revised and knocked down by a couple of levels - in keeping with the heritage and conservation area of the town. "Camden has heritage and historical character and we would like to maintain that - a two storey development is the only way to do it," Robert Wheeler, president of CRAG said. While both groups welcome the development of the site at the corner of John, Elizabeth and Exeter streets - and have made that quite clear - what is becoming a bone of contention is the over development of the area and a proposal to build three storeys, which will also include a loft - in total the development will tower at 15 metres high. The Maximum in Camden town is seven metres. The site will be mixed development and include commercial premises, a motel, seniors living and retirement village and a residential community centre. "There could be more than 300 people living in this area," Mr Wheeler said. He is also concerned that if Camden Council approves the revised application it could set a precedent and overrule its own policy that has defined the character of the town for many years. John Wrigley, vice-president of the Camden Historical Society agreed. He said council shouldn't move away from its own policy which was developed with a great amount of community consultation.

made provisions for a park on site. The development is providing 57 residential units plus 108 senior living dwellings and 76 bed residential care facility: all these people will need easy access to a public park as the previous school provided their own and the new development has not provided any for the new residents of Camden." While remediation work will be done on the old site, the applicant has expressed an interest in keeping one of the school buildings.

Tax discount email scam

CRAG and the Camden Historical Society working towards the same outcome - a two storey development on the old high school site - John Wrigley, Glenda Davis Robert Wheeler and Ian Willis. "The precedent would make it very difficult to reject similar application throughout the heritage conservation area." Mr Wheeler said there has already been talk about a three storey commercial building in Argyle Street. "The request by the developer by the means of the SEPP 1 (state environment planning policy) objections to increase the height of his buildings cannot be justified in a heritage 'conservation area' as the final outcome would be a disastrous precedent

for the rest of the township of Camden," as stated in CRAG's submission, which was presented to the council recently. In the submission CRAG also is fearful at the possibility of Camden losing its "unique character" and ending up with flats like in Randwick, Bankstown and areas of the North Shore. Another point which the group also highlights is the lack of open green space. "…There is need for open space. The adopted DCP (development control plan)

The Tax Office is warning people to be wary of a fraudulent email being circulated that claims to offer a 30 per cent discount on their taxes. The email uses the Tax Office logo and the words 'Cut Off Taxes Program (COTP) has been released - Join Now' in the subject heading and the following text: "Cut Off Taxes Program 30% Discount for your 2009 taxes Register now for the Cut Off Taxes Program (COTP). This means you could get 30% back from all your 2009 taxes." There may be more variations to this subject heading and text. The email asks people to click on a link which directs them to a bogus Tax Office website and asks them to register for the program by supplying their tax file number. Tax Commissioner Michael D'Ascenzo said anyone who receives the email should delete it immediately. "The Tax Office never sends emails asking people to provide personal information including tax file numbers," Mr D'Ascenzo said. If people have entered their tax file number or personal information on the website they should immediately call 13 28 61.

Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 5

Making faces The June meeting of the Camden branch of the Australian Decorative Fine Arts Society will be exploring the art of portraiture. David F. Coke and art historian and curator will be discussing this topic from his point of view. The talk explores why artists paint portraits, what they are used for and what they convey. The many images include everything from the Egyptian mummy portraits to the Identikit. The talk is on Saturday, June 27, 4pm at the Undercroft, Camden Civic Centre and entry is $15. For details call 4658 0784.

Operatic splendor at St Paul's Operatic soprano, Amelia Farrugia will be performing arias from well known operas at this month's musical event at St Paul's Cobbitty. This is part of the regular fundraising efforts by the Friends of St Paul's to help restore and maintain the unique collection of historic buildings in the village of Cobbitty these include Heber chapel, the church and the rectory. The annual concerts are well known for quality and the setting in the church is an ideal backdrop for an afternoon of fine music. There is limited seating so hurry and book for the June 28 performance starting at 2.30pm at St Paul's in Cobbitty. Call James Warrand on 0412 667 621 for ticket details.

NAIDOC Family Day in July Wollondilly Shire Council in conjunction Wollondilly Aboriginal Advisory Committee will again be holding a NAIDOC family day event. This year the event will be on Sunday, July 5 at Picton Botanic Gardens between 10am to 2pm. Here is your chance to be involved and learn about the traditional people of this land and their culture. There will

6 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

be a variety of stalls, special entertainers and displays as well as a free sausage sizzle. Here are just a few of the things you can expect to see on the day: Cultural Stalls; Aboriginal Art and Displays; National Parks and Wildlife Display; Wollondilly Shire Council Aboriginal Projects; Black Films Screening; and Tharawal LALC Stall For more details call the council's Aboriginal Development Officer on 4677 8224.

corner of John and Mitchell Streets, Camden. Admission is Adults $15, Concession $10, Family of two adults and two children $40. For details call Camden Uniting Church office 4655 9303, or Heather Bieman 0412 400 394 or www.camdenuniting.org.au

Pianists perform Gift of Music The annual Gift of Music Concert will be held at Camden Uniting Church at 2pm on Sunday, July 5 and all proceeds raised will be shared between the African Aids Foundation, and the Robert Astill Memorial Fund ( which supports the work of the African School of Mission). Guest artists are Dr Marilyn Meier-Kapavale and Lachlan Glen, both of whom will play the Steinway grand piano, which is housed at Camden Uniting Church by courtesy of the Harrington Park Foundation. The guest artists will be supported by local talented musicians including the Amazing Grace Singers. Dr Marilyn is a concert pianist who grew up at Oakdale, and as a young child learned piano from Pat McKee. When she was in Year 9 at Camden High School she won the ABC TV Quest 78, and following that she was invited to study with Bela Siki in the United States. Dr Marilyn is currently Head of Piano Studies and a Music lecturer at the University of Queensland. Lachlan Glen from Narellan Vale, studied piano at AGAPE - the Amazing Grace Academy of Performing Excellence as a young boy, and later with Dr Marilyn Meier. For the last twelve months he has been living in the United States, furthering his piano studies. During his time away he has won first prize in the University Undergraduate Concerto competition, performed at Steinway Hall and at Carnegie Hall, and received the Rutgers University Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement. Both of these talented pianists will be back in Camden for this popular event. "Marilyn and Lachlan grew up in the Macarthur area. I am very proud of them both," Heather Bieman, director of AGAPEmusic said. The concert will be held at Camden Uniting Church,

Lachlan Glen will be performing at Camden Uniting Church on July 5

Talking Tax

Business and Home Work related expenses work clothing by Les Coulcher The tax office has gone to print in order to assist taxpayers in identifying what is or is not Work Clothing. This is an attempt to guide taxpayers and to take the guess work out of claiming legitimate expenses in tax returns. Work Uniforms can either be compulsory or non compulsory. If the uniform is compulsory then you may be able to claim for a single item of distinctive clothing such as a jumper, if it is compulsory for you to wear it at work. You cannot claim expenses incurred for non compulsory work uniforms, unless your employer has registered the design with Ausindustry. Check with your employer who should be able to confirm this information for corporate wear at www.ausindustry.gov.au. Shoes, sock and stockings can never form part of a non compulsory work uniform, and neither can a single item such as a jumper. Generally, you cannot claim a deduction for the cost of purchasing or cleaning a plain uniform or conventional clothing worn at work, even if your employer tells you to wear them, as this is deemed a private expense. According to the ATO, if you receive an allowance from your employer for clothing, uniforms, laundry or dry cleaning you cannot automatically claim a deduction. Clothing expenses you can claim are related to compulsory uniforms comprising a set of clothing that, when worn, identifies you as an employee of a specific organisation having a strictly enforced policy that makes it compulsory for you to wear the uniform whilst at work. You may be able to claim a deduction for shoes, socks and stockings where they are an essential part of this distinctive compulsory uniform, the characteristic of which are stated in your employer's uniform policy. You may also claim for a single item of distinctive clothing, such as a jumper, where it is compulsory for you to wear it at work. Generally clothing is distinctive where it has the employer's logo permanently attached and the clothing is not available to the general public. If you wear a non compulsory uniform you cannot claim for stockings, short socks or shoes as these items cannot be registered as part of a non compulsory uniform. Your employer can tell you if your uniform or wardrobe is registered. If your employer requires you to wear a distinctive uniform or wardrobe, but does not enforce the wearing of the uniform, the design of the uniform must be registered before you can claim a deduction. You can claim a deduction for the cost of occupation specific clothing, eg checked pants worn by chefs. The clothing would be specific to your occupation and is not everyday in nature. It is unlikely that a building worker would have occupation specific clothing. More next week on protective clothing.

Talking Money

Australians aren't financially prepared for the unexpected by John Jones After basic needs such as air, food and shelter, security and peace of mind are recognised as one of mankind's basic drivers. Thus the following research is quite surprising. Perhaps t is a reaction/result of the Global Financial Crisis, or is it an overall trend of complacency? With the beginning of a New Financial Year approaching, it is a good time for each of us to review our situation and take steps to gain more control. Research has revealed that an alarming 51% of Australians said that they did not have enough savings or investments to cope with the unexpected. This is based on research released by Aviva, one of the world's largest insurance groups. The findings are part of Aviva's Consumer Attitudes to Savings global research which surveyed over 1000 Australians in the first quarter of 2009. High level findings are attached, with the following key insights: 41% of Australians are worried that they "haven't saved enough money to continue to provide an adequate standard of living in…retirement"; 51% of agree that they "don't have enough savings/investments to cope with the unexpected"; 40% of Australians said they are not "regularly setting aside money for use when they retire"; 51% of Australians see their home as "the most significant part of my (their) total future financial

security"; 1 in 4 Australians "wished" that someone else would sort out their financial affairs; Australians said that existing debt (28%) or affordability (57%) were two major reasons why they are unable to save or invest more money; and On a long term view Australians are now less likely to accept a higher level of risk for a higher possible return. In 2005, 41% of Australians said they were prepared to accept a higher level of risk for higher possible returns but in 2009 only 29% of Australians agreed with this statement. "Despite talk of Australia entering a recession, it's surprising to see that 28% of Australians prefer to spend than save their money even though many Australians said that they don't have enough savings to cope with the unexpected," Aviva's Sue Voglis, Research and Public Relations Manager said. The Consumer Attitudes to Savings is a survey conducted by Aviva in conjunction with The Futures Company. Over the past 6 years Aviva has surveyed over 100,000 people in 25 countries about their individual attitudes to saving and investing. This year's Consumer Attitudes to Savings surveyed over 1000 Australians and was conducted in the first quarter of 2009. We recommend you consult with a licensed financial planner before acting on any of the above information We thank Aviva for the above. John is an authorised representative of Professional Investment Services AFSL# 234951 Whilst all care is taken in the preparation of this material, no warranty is given in respect to the information provided and accordingly no responsibility for errors or omissions, including responsibility to any person by reason of negligence is accepted.

The advice offered is of a generic nature and should be treated as such. Accordingly no responsibility can be accepted if this information is acted upon without professional advice relative to specific circumstances.

Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 7

Sport

High Tide ........ By Gabe Quercigrossi There's quite a chill in the morning air and not so many hours of daylight left to play around with. Although the fishing in June is still very good, it's time to get stuck into it now because e the good times aren't going to last much longer. On the offshore scene, yellowfin tuna around the 25-30 kilogram mark are still available off Kiama and they've been targeted with Pakula sprockets in the neon colour. Bonito to the kilo and half mark have been schooling just wide of Lasting Distance under the cliff faces, but he small boat brigade have been getting their bag limits by trolling 40grams look alike silver pilchards lures. The desalination plant at Kurnell has been providing excellent catches of leatherjackets to 800grams and they've been boated only 100 metres or so from the structures. If you're chasing kingfish, then look no farther than the wave rider buoy off Cape Bailey. Shaun Davies manages four bruisers to 13.6 kgs, all taken on live bonito baits. A little further south, the stretch between Wattamolla and Garie beaches has been red hot for salmon to 4kgs, with live yakka, the preferred bait. Botany Bay itself has been a little quiet with not too many fishos venturing out, however, we have it on good authority that Molineaux Point is still the hot spot for trevally and whilst they're not real big, a feed can be assured. All you need is peeled prawns lightly weighed and a steady stream of bread burley. If you're prepared to brave the elements, then Watts Reed at Kurnell could be worth a try. Big blue nose bream and class trevally have been taken at night on live nippers during the run-up tide. The weed beds on the southern side of

8 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

the bay are holding fair numbers if winter bream and they can be enticed to bite with the aid of a steady boiled wheat and pollard burley. They love nippers and blood worms and that is what I would be offering to them. Georges River is fishing exceptionally well and has surpassed all expectations at the time of writing. Mick McCormack and mate boated 19 jewfish to 70cms, released 10 to fight another day - the second pylon on the northern side of the Capt Cook Bridge providing the spoils. The cockle beds at Connells Pt have been fishing well at night for good size whiting. The writer was lucky enough to get his bag limit of 20 fish up to 47cms using bloodworm baits. Luderick catches are on the increase with all the recognised possies providing top catches. The northern side of Captain Cook Bridge and Mickeys Pt are all worth a try. In Port Hacking, the water is gin clear and making fishing difficult, green eye calamari squid have been taken in good numbers at night from Lilli Pilli Wharf and tailor around the 45cms mark have been biting at night from the Bundeena wharf after the ferries stop running. On the local scene, things have been very quiet with only the ever present carp being taken around Cobbitty Weir and the odd bass falling for nightcrawlers around Camden Bridge. Lake Lyell has bass to 48cms available on live yabbies but you'll have to work hard for them, and last week only a few trout were taken by trolling Tassie devils near the dam wall. Don't forget our fishing classes, which are held every Monday evening 6.30pm-8pm - they're free and you will learn a lot.

.... from the sideline by Billy Boots With the monkey off Thirlmere's back after their loss to Oakdale last week the Roosters should have settled down and played the football they are capable of. However, the Narellan Jets have inflicted loss number two after coming from 30-16 behind to win a nail-biter by 3230. The action went down to the wire with the Roosters pressing the Jets line but a spilt ball ended any chance of sneaking a win. The loss now sees Narellan jump to the competition lead and other results are also making the betting market re-think their odds. The Roosters, who are striving for their fourth grand final appearance in as many years, have the work in front of them now. Struggling in recent weeks with close wins over Camden and East Campbelltown, and now losses to Oakdale and Narellan, this is the sort of wake up call that coach, Jamie Horner was hoping for without giving away their competition lead. The Jets win over Thirlmere has ramifications that could see their season take a turn for the better. Robbie Mears reluctantly puts the boots on when the Jets have an injury or two, and the team responds to his leadership with a spirited win. The Jets had Picton, Oakdale and Moss Vale breathing down their necks, but the win and subsequent losses and draws to Oakdale and Picton sees the gap widen. Narellan still have a game in hand against Oakdale, and a win there can see Oakdale slip further away from the coveted top three position. Oakdale have played hot and cold this season, but they win when it counts and can be expected to be on song once the big end of season games come around. The Workers have a strong forward pack and speedy backline that if given enough room can easily embarrass the best defenders. Peter Lett, Oakdale's centre, has a beautiful in and away step that has his opponent second guessing his movements, plus he has the strength to break the first tackle and once motoring is hard to rein in. The Oaks almost pulled off their first win of the season but fell short when they encountered Narellan last week. They beat a struggling

Ingleburn to record their solitary win, but will win a few more. With veteran Ronnie Jones calling the shots the Tigers fought back to be within a converted try but they just didn't have the firepower to control a Fred Misi's led Jets forward pack. Big Fred Misi has been a savior for the Jets. His gentle nature belies the strength, much like a smiling assassin. He took control of the game when Narellan played Picton and dominated the forward battles, silencing Picton enforcer Matt MacPherson with some brutal front on defence and bullocking runs and his 2008 form saw him rewarded with Group 6 representative honours earlier this year. Group 6 clubs can be relieved to know that the Campbelltown clubs haven't had as much as an influence as they feared. With both Ingleburn and East Campbelltown in the lower half of the competition ladder the traditional CRL clubs have a mortgage on the top five semi spots, if they can hold their form for the remainder of the season. It will be interesting to see where the grand final will be played this year. Camden were granted the rights to host the decider, but that decision was pre merger. T h o u g h Campbelltown Stadium has a marvelous playing surface, the size of the joint will not carry the atmosphere and closeness that a traditional 'country' grand final should enjoy. Here's hoping that the powers that be keep it either at Camden as previously decided, or Picton, Narellan or the like.

Sport LEAGUE

Tight win for Narellan over Thirlmere By Steve Pike

Narellan Jets with the ball against Thirlmere Roosters on Sunday

LEAGUE

The Narellan Jets have inflicted a second loss of the year to the Thirlmere Roosters by coming from behind to win 32-30. Undefeated for 18 months until last week when Oakdale broke the egg, the Roosters were favourites to atone for that loss. The Jets jumped out and led early when prolific tryscorer, Ben Baker raced 60 metres from an overlap to open the account. Gavin Wilson added the extras and the Jets led 6-0. Thirlmere had control for the next 20 minutes and ran in tries to Jason Sampson, Jason Power, Morgan Knott and Leo Dynevor to lead 186. Only one try was converted which proved costly in the end. The Jets recovered by scoring after Wilson chipped for Jason Smith to catch and offload to Jamie Newton to score. Wilson added the extras and at half time the 12-18 score flattered the Jets. The Jets were first to score in the second half when Shane Ruwoldt barged over from dummy half to close the score to 16-18, but minutes later Ryan Crocker was sin binned and Matt Carlyon took advantaged of the extra man and trotted over to score. Rae added two points and Thirlmere led 24-16. A barging run by Jayden Merchant from a drop out almost resulted in a try but a tackle later

John Rae stumbled and crawled over to score adjacent to the posts, with his brother Adam Rae kicking the conversion to put the score out to 30-16. Not giving up, the Jets bounced back when Baker chipped over the defence and picked up the stray ball to score his second, with Wilson adding two. With 10 minutes remaining Crocker returned to the field and broke through, grubbered for Baker to regather and weave a path to score under the posts, reducing the score to 26-30. With five minutes left on the clock Newton chipped for himself but was impeded, resulting in Adam Rae being sinbinned. Newton again found space with a grubber kick, which was fumbled in goal by the Roosters, with Shane Milat diving on the loose ball and equally the score. Wilson's conversion though broke the brief deadlock and put the Jets in front with a few minutes remaining. From the kickoff a simple offensive penalty had the Roosters back on the attack only metres from the Jets line. The Jets held the Thirlmere attack for the vital two minutes and ran out winners 32-30 in somewhat controversial circumstances. Best for the Jets were Todd Black, Shane Milat, Robbie Mears and Ben Baker. Thirlmere was best served by Jayden Merchant, Nathan Sutton and Leo Dynevor.

Feathers fly at stadium By Michael Rees In a hard fought match under the lights of the Campbelltown Football Stadium on Saturday night Picton (Magpies) and East Campeblltown (Eagles) slogged their way to a 16all-draw. Before a small, but vocal ground on a wet night the game got under way at a snail's pace with both teams feeling each other out. The forwards then got stuck into it with Picton front rower, Matt McPherson making some fearless charges into the big Eagle's forward pack. Picton dominated early possession but their diminutive half back, Will Dreves had an off day with his tactical kicking putting very little pressure on the Eagles defence. Then against the run a play the Eagles No 3 crossed over for a good try near the post which was converted. Picton then upped the ante and were held up over the try line on three occasions before five-eight Bryce Hoskin pulled off the "oldie but a goodie" run around with winger Jeremy MacKay who crossed wide

out. The teams went to the half time break with the Eagles in front 6-4. The second off got under way with Picton introducing their interchange players who made an impact with Dave Beddall leading the way. No 16 for the Eagles was giving as good as he got and made some crashing runs. It took the Magpies front rower, Chris Bowers to get the scoreboard ticking over again when he crashed over under the post for a converted try. Picton scored again shortly after that and the big Campbelltown forwards looked like they were running out of puff when their mercurial No 4 took an intercept that lead to a try. A short time later he was at it again when he took off from dummy half about 20 metres out and touched down along side the post to even up the scores. Picton had plenty of chances to win this game but they snatched defeat out of the jaws of victory. East Campbelltown to their credit hung in there and finished the stronger. At the end of the day a draw was probably the best result.

Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 9

Sport SOFTBALL

Softball athlete headed for the big time Southern Districts Softball Association representative softballer, Kayne Kajan, is definitely heading for the big time. Kayne is a current scholarship holder with the South West Sydney Academy of Sport and executive officer Gerry Knights congratulates those many people who have assisted this softballer's development to date. Kayne has loved softball since he started playing at the tender age

of 8 years. Kayne has moved through the associations Under 12s, 14s, 16s and now 19s representative age groups, often being one of the younger players. "Kayne gained entry to Westfield Sports High School in 2006, has played two years of Waratah League, and has also been selected into the Academy softball program for the past two years," Knights said. In January 2009, Kayne was

selected in the NSW Under 16s Team and competed at the National Championships in Tasmania, finishing third overall. Following the National Championships, Kayne was selected into the 2009 Under 19s Australian Squad to compete in the Friendship Series, to be held in July at Blacktown Olympic Park against other Australian teams and teams from New Zealand. "Kayne's ambition is to make

the 2012 Under 19s Australian team and to compete at the Junior World championships," said his mother Joanne Southam. "He was inspired to play softball by watching his cousins and brother play and seeing them progress from club level right through to State and Australian representative levels. He has been fantastically supported by his Wildcats club coaches, academy head coach, Heather Skuse, and

her coaching and support staff members, plus his Southern Districts Softball Association and NSW coaches", she said. "Kayne is a talented athlete the region should be proud of, he supports his fellow players and recognises that it takes the efforts of many, including his family and friends to be ultimately successful," Knights said. For details on the academy go to swsas.org.au

NETBALL

Camden celebrated Under 17s victory by Michele Leahy Camden & District Netball Association (C&DNA) Under 17s team came fifth in the 2009 Holden State Championships and it was all smiles for players and officials. The weeks of preparation paid off when the girls competed earlier this month - showed that the Camden association is a force to be reckoned with on the court. The 2009 U17 team, coached by Simone Hahn, with manager Angie Kendrick - had 11 players: Laura O'Flynn, Courtney Ditton, Hayley Parkins, Rebecca McCarthy, Susan Kendrick, Elyse Glynn, Courtney Gardiner, Jennifer Brown, Kate Bonfield, Alicia Garling, Stephanie Kay "As an association we are proud of all our 11 players. Each and every girl contributed to this fantastic achievement and it is always encouraging when hard work pays off. The fact that our

10 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

teams continue to improve shows that our coaching programs are working and that netball in this region is thriving and continuing to grow," C&DNA Rep Co-ordinator Kerrin Thomas said. In netball circles, Camden has certainly had a week to boost its profile with local MP Geoff Corrigan giving a glowing review of netball in this region in Parliament, after he attended the opening weekend of local games in March. Netball NSW is this year celebrating its 80th anniversary. For a full report on Geoff Corrigan's address to Parliament visit http://www.netballnsw.com/ C&DNA is actively looking for sponsors for their 2009/2010 season. Anyone interested in finding out how they could benefit from being a Camden Netball Sponsor should contact the clubhouse on 4658 0033 (Saturdays 8.30am 4.30pm) or email http://camden.netball.asn.au/ and request a sponsorship brochure.

Stephanie Kay claiming the ball for Camden.

Sport Results BOWLS Camden Men's Bowling Club Week ending June 7 Tuesday: Mixed Mufti Bob McDermott-Win MoffatHugh Dunnachie: 2 wins + 24 Henry Dallas-Fred Pearson; 2 wins +16 Thursday Jackpot Pairs: DIV One: Peter KibblewhiteB.Taylor Div Two: Rex Warren-Noel Gleeson Saturday Social Div One; Charlie Toovey-Hugh Dunnachie-Col Dillon Div Two: Gloria Murray-Peter Seddon-Ross Pulling-Allan Wood Major Singles Championship: Round Two Chris Denford (32) d Barry Smith (17) Minor Singles Championship: Round Three Frank Farrugia (33) d Lee White (5) Rick Ray (32) d Ramon Puyo (20) Week ending June 21 Tuesday Mixed Mufti: 4th Win Moffat-Henry Dallas-Kevin Shaw: 2 wins +11 (C/B) Lucy Russell-Dick Ellis-Fred Pearson: 2 wins+11 Tuesday Mixed Muft: 16th Ron Russell-Don Ray; 2wins +12 Richard Mazurkiewicz-Bill Marsh 2 wins + 11 Thursday Jackpot Pairs: 11th Div One; Kevin Beale-John Brennan Div Two: Bob McDermott-Fred Pearson Thursday Jackpot Pairs: 18th Div One: Ivan Old-Bill Richards Vic Two: Hugh Dunnachie-Col Dillon Saturday: 20th - Minor Singles Champ semi final Ivor Watkiss 31 d Rick Ray 27 Barry Robbins 31 d Rob Brennan 20 Major Singles Championship: Third Round Graham Thackeray 31 d David Margin 23 John Bugden 31 d Karl Szynal 21 Steve Laker 31 d Les Sims 22 Alan Dodd 31 d Noel Hines 18 Brian Barnicoat 32 d Rob Brennan 7 Allan Wood 32 d Les Minall 15 David Price 31 d Noel Gleeson 3 Ivor Watkiss 31 d Frank Lipscombe 15 Sunday: Fourth Round AM: Major Singles Bruce Turton 31 d John Rofe 20; Brian Barnicoat d Dave Price 18 Ed Klaassen 33 d Chris Denford 18; Ramon Puyo 31 d Steve Tajsic 15 Keith Valentine 31 d Ivor Watkiss 18; Mick Shepherd 31 d Steve Laker 20 Alan Dodd 31 d Paul Burnes 23; Allan Webb 32 d Grahams Thackeray 29 Quarter Final Major Singles:PM John Bugden 31 d Alan Dodd 5; Allan Wood 31 d Ramon Puyo 14 Bruce Turton 31 d Keith Valentine 28; Mick Shepherd 31 d Ed Klaassen 28 Camden Women's Bowling Club Week ending June 10-17 Major Singles Final: 10th Ruth Missen 31 d Gloria Murray 22 Major pairs C'ship: First round: Eve Yatee-Barbara Wilson 24 d Shirley Gould-Jan Parsons 18 Ruth Missen-Rhonda Webb 31 d Jane Langford-Iris Britten 17 Mary Burton-Jane Lonelcok 21 d Lucy Russell-Betty Brown 13 Farnces Laker-Gloria Murray 25 d Dot Dallas-Elaine Shaw 11. LEAGUE Group 6 Junior Rugby League Round 8 - June 13 Under 10B: The Oaks d Thirlmere 30; Mittagong 34 d Narellan 14; Appin 24 d Picton 18; Camden Bye Under 10A: Thirlmere 26 d Warragamba 12; Camden 52 d Moss Vale 0; Mt Annan/Currans Hill 22 d Picton 16; Narellan Bye Under 11B: Warragamba 58 d Picton 0 (DP); Bowral 30 d Narellan White 18 (DP); Camden 22 d Narellan Blue 4 (DP); Thirlmere 66 d Mt Annan/Currans Hill 6 (DP); Mittagong Bye Under 11A: Thirlmere 10 d The Oaks 0; Narellan 14 d Mittagong 4; Camden 40 d Moss

Talking Horses

Vale 0; Mt Annan/Currans Hill 12 drew Picton 12 Under 12B: The Oaks 14 d Robertson 0; Thirlmere 22 d Warragamba 4; Narellan 16 d Mittagong 8 Under 12A: Warragamba 30 d Thirlmere 0; Mittagong 16 drew Narellan 16; Camden 40 d Moss Vale 0; Picton 36 d Mt Annan/Currans Hill 6 Under 13B: Picton 20 d Thirlmere 12; Warragamba 18 d Appin 0; Narellan 26 d Camden 6; Moss Vale 18 d Mt Annan/Currans Hill 12 Under 13A: Camden 62 d The Oaks 0; Narellan 10 d Mittagong 8; Mt Annan/Currans Hill 18 d Picton 16; Thirlmere Bye Under 14B: Picton 50 d Robertson 10; The Oaks 20 d Camden 10; Thirlmere 34 d Mittagong 10 Under 14A: Mittagong 52 d Narellan 0; Camden 20 d Moss Vale 12; Picton 54 d Mt Annan/Currans Hill 0; Warragamba Bye Under 15B: The Oaks 42 d Narellan 14; Camden 10 d Mt Annan/Currans Hill 6; Mittagong Bye Under 16B: Appin 50 d Robertson 6. Group 6 Senior League June 20-21 First Grade: East 16 drew Picton 16; Moss Vale 38 d Mittagong 12; The Oaks 40 d Bulldogs 12; Camden 16 d Oakdale 10; Narellan 32 d Thirlmere 30 Third Grade: Warragamba 42 d Mt Annan 4; All Saints 22 d IRSL 14; ESA 22 d Minto 44 18A: East v Ashcroft no score; All Saints 84 d Narellan 4; Picton bye 18B: IRSL 40 d East 20; Minto 22 d Camden 6 18C: The Oaks 64 d Mac Saints 6; ESA 32.d Collies 16 Reserve Grade: East 22 drew Picton 22; Moss Vale 28 d Mittagong 6; Valley 52 d The Oaks 0; Oakdale 24 d Camden 16; Narellan 20 d Thirlmere 16 Third Grade: Collies 32 d City 22; Appin 38 d Bowral 4 18A: Mac Fields 28 d Collies 22 ESA 42 d Mittagong 10 18B: Hinchinbrook 28 d Warriors 6; Warragamba Bye 18C: City 18 drew Thirlmere 18. HOCKEY Macarthur Hockey Association Inc Results for 2009 Men's Competition 1st Grade Results for Round 11 Ingleburn Bulldogs 8 (Leigh Brabender 3, Andrew Carter 2, Benjamin Poulton, Gavin Purvis, Bradley Homer) beat Macarthur Skylarks 6 (Owen Blacker 2, Pierce Clothier, Douglas Hughes, Ben Cummins, Ross Myhill) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple) 2nd Grade Results for Round 11 Easts 12 (Luke Ussia 7, Martin Hanslow 2, Tyler Bryant 2, Mathieu Boudan) beat Collegians 0 Campbelltown City 5 (Luke Morris 2, Benjamin Walker, Simon Turner, Nathan Realph) beat Ingleburn Bulldogs 4 (Mitchell Brabender 2, Joel Murphy, Blake Keogh) Wests Blue Addiction 8 (Evan Corbett 2, Timothy Bogg 2, Adam Dawes, Craig Farrell, Christopher Rossiter, Dale Paterson) beat Macarthur Skylarks 1 (Timothy Gartrell) 3rd Grade Results for Round 11 Easts 4 (Gregory Jackson 3, Joel Pooley) beat Macarthur Skylarks 1 (Brennan Garbutt) Ingleburn Old Dogs 5 (Taylor Martin 2, Scott Faint 2, Frank Hirka) beat Collegians 2 (Ashley Clinch, Ty Antony) Ingleburn Young Pups 2 (Jacob Andaloro 2) beat Wests Vets 1 (Hugh Stone) Campbelltown City 8 (Neil Baillie 5, Brendan Byrnes 2, Ian Reynolds) beat Wests Young Guns 3 (Christopher Flack, Ismaeel Julius, Glenn Beckinsale) Macarthur Hockey Association Junior Competition Round 11 Minkey Under 7: Easts White 6 (Zac Roberts 3, Gabrielle Hudson 2, Cassandra Puckle) beat Wests Cubs 0; Easts Red 3

(Gabrielle Hudson 3) beat Harrington Park Gold 0; Campbelltown City 1 (Piper Jones) beat Harrington Park Purple 0; Ingleburn Gold 3 (Audree Moroney 2, Tiarhn Dunn) beat Macarthur Skylarks Sharks 1 (Maddison Sullivan); Macarthur Skylarks Crocodiles 5 (Luke Atherton 3, Elijah Gray 2) beat Ingleburn Green 0 Minkey Under 9: Wests Wildcats 3 (Brenden Troy 3) beat Harrington Park Purple 0; Harrington Park White 2 (Samuel Kennedy 2) beat Harrington Park Gold 0 Ingleburn Bulldogs 4 (Daniel O'Daly 3, Riley MaginnDawson) beat Easts 0; Macarthur Skylarks Emus 1 (Luke Atherton) beat Collegians Sharks 0; Macarthur Skylarks Possums 2 (Kaitlin Miller, Erin Gregory) beat Collegians Dolphins 0; Wests Linxes 4 (Troy Channel 2, Nicola Pasquali, Jared Flanagan) beat Campbelltown City Kids 0; Wests Lions 2 (Joshua Rath 2) beat Campbelltown City Ducks 1 (Jacqueline Salmon) Under 11 Junior: Harrington Park Gold 4 (Braidan Booth 3, Luke Downey) beat Wests Pumas 0; Harrington Park Purple 0 drew with East - City 0; Ingleburn Bulldogs Green 2 (Daniel O'Daly, Brandon Thompson) beat Wests Cougars 1 (Emily Bancroft); Macarthur Skylarks Dragons 3 (Joshua Atherton 2, Harley Thoms) beat Macarthur Skylarks Rams 0 Under 13 Girls: Harrington Park 8 (Alexandra Lovelock 2, Kirsten Rose 2, Taylor Demenezes, Emma Barry, Jordan Bryant, Emma Creasey) beat Wests Meercats 0; Ingleburn Bulldogs 2 (Erin Besgrove, Wynona Rutten) beat Macarthur Skylarks 1 (Courtney Schonell) Under 13 Junior: Harrington Park 1 (Kayla Keane) drew with Easts 1 (Blake Ussia); Macarthur Skylarks Kookaburras 5 (Nathanael Stewart 3, Alley Hanagan, Regan Daley) beat Ingleburn Bulldogs 3 (Luke Ollerenshaw, Isaac McDonald, Jarred Edwards); Macarthur Skylarks Avengers 10 (James Groth 3, Dylan Pardy 2, Paul Dawson 2, Henry Groth, Mark Little, Joshua Atherton) beat Wests Tigers 0 Under 15 Girls: Harrington Park 3 (Jordan Parker 2, Megan Rose) beat Ingleburn Bulldogs 1 (Leah Giri); Wests Leopards 4 (Emelia Tracey 2, Sarah Craig, Kathryn Smith) beat Macarthur Easts 1 (Sofia Fuller-Smith) Under 15 Junior: Wests Coyotes 5 (Corey Cox 2, Talia Buckley, Michael Hemingway, Travis Gibson) beat Easts 0; Ingleburn Bulldogs 9 (Taylor Martin 2, Nathan Daniel 2, Joshua Gregory 2, Jordan Manders, Jack Spencer, Jacob Andaloro) beat Macarthur Skylarks 0; Harrington Park 7 (Stuart Shepherd 4, Mitchell Payer 3) beat Wests Wolves 2 (Kathryn Smith 2) Under 17 Junior: Penrith Panthers 5 (Colby Johnstone 2, Jonathan Wong, Erin Burns, Cameron Rand) beat Blaxland Rovers 0; Easts 1 (Brendan Gibson) beat Macarthur Skylarks 0; Wests Ninjas 4 (Benjamin Miles 2, Nandita Ward, Travis Gibson) beat Emu Plains 1 (Christina Kingsford); Wests Warriors 3 (Tim Ryan 2, Holly Smith) beat Harrington Park Gold 2 (Lewis Shepherd, Pierce Clothier) Harrington Park Purple 3 (Lewis Shepherd, Hayley Martin, Pierce Clothier) beat Ingleburn Bulldogs 2 (Grant Lubyckij, Mitchell Brabender) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple) Wests Electrolux 4 (Timothy Bogg 2, Mitchell Buckley, Casey Alexander) beat Penrith Panthers 2 (Jeremy Walzak, Joshua Chapple)

Register for the MS Horseride It's that time of year when the Multiple Sclerosis Society is asking horse riders to consider taking part in the annual MS Horseride experience. Now in its 14th year the event is staged to support people with multiple sclerosis - it is also an opportunity for riders and their four-legged friend to spend a week together riding on private property not normally open to the public in the Upper Hunter Valley. The ride has around 250 horse lovers from all over the country get together. The days are spent riding and the nights are spent socialising and making new friends. If you have some holiday leave due or are thinking about an adventure - consider this eightday ride. Place are limited so think quickly and register. Ask family and friends to help by pledging their donations to the ride. Last year's event raised more than $100,000. The goal for 2009 is $130,00. The ride is split into on and off days. Riders can expect three days riding and then a rest day and then another three days on the trail. Each day's ride is between 20-30 kilometres on fully supported and well marked trails and there is usually also an option for one or two longer rides. The routes are chosen for their scenic attraction. The rider pays for their own entry fee, which includes all meals for the week, feed and water for their horse (Mitavite Economix and hay), veteri-

nary support, farrier support, first aid, route marshals, rouseabout crew, entertainment program, shower and toilet facilities etc. When you're not in the saddle there will be plenty to see and do - entertainment includes live music, trivia, horse related demonstrations and the much loved Talent in The Tent and a visit to a local thoroughbred stud and a winery. Participants range from 10 to 70 years old and are mainly drawn from NSW and ACT, with the occasional riders from Victoria, South Australia and Queensland. Giddy up and register as places are limited. Spend time with your horse and make new friends. Log onto the MS website for more details and conditions.

Vet Chat The importance of desexing cats Dr Steven Ferguson Cat owners beware! There are clandestine meetings being held in darkened back streets. Impetuous romantic liaisons are occurring with no thought of the consequences. Testosterone charged Toms will brawl viciously with each other while competing for the proffered favours of female cats. The result of this biological ball game is that thousands of kittens are born in the cat breeding season in cities around the world. In Sydney cats are seasonal breeders. They start breeding as the days get longer - that is sooner, after the winter solstice. Cats, in the breeding season, have continual breeding cycles throughout the summer months. These cycles repeat every three weeks or so unless the cat is mated, or until the breeding season finished. Cats are breeding machines. There is nothing accidental in their mating rituals. When the hormones hit, the queens (female cats) actively seek males and they keep seeking them until mated. The males are more than willing. Your female cat is likely to show some unusual behaviour when her hormones start. She will yowl at the door to get out at night. She will roll on the ground, become agitated and act most unusually. You are likely to think her need is a brief sojourn outside to go to the toilet and that's your mistake, as she will stay out all night, to return in the morning with a happy, contented smile on her face. Nine weeks later there will be a surprise in the laundry basket when she has given birth to a litter of kittens.

Because male cats roam for kilometres when looking for ladies they often suffer a variety of accidents. They become lost, fall victim to car wheels or to cat consuming canines. The answer is obvious and simple. All cats should be desexed. Responsible breeders who know what they are doing and who don't allow their non desexed cats to roam are an obvious exception. Some of you may be thinking: "Is it really necessary?" "Can't I let her have just one litter?" "She'll be so much more content after having a litter" "They need to have one season before being desexed, don't they?" Owners of male cats may also state, "I can't desexed him - it's a blow to his masculinity." "A male cat's got to do what a male cat's supposed to do." "I'm not castrated, so why should I do that to my cat?" Desexing is essential. There is no advantage in allowing queens to have a season or a litter and toms that are not desexed suffer continual wounds and abscesses and usually die early and often tragically. If your cat is not desexed at this very moment, you should be nervous! Ring your vet immediately and make an appointment. The surgery is routine - it costs less to desex a female cat than to raise a litter of kittens and the cost of neutering a male cat is even less.

Macarthur Veterinary Hospital Ph: 4655 7664

6 Ironbark Ave, Camden www.macarthurvet.com.au Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 11

Lovely staffy

If you are looking for a puppy to make your house a home - visit Wollondilly Animal Shelter and check out some adorable residents who need a home to call their own. This three month old female white and tan staffy is waiting for someone to adopt and look after her. If you have the time and a big enough backyard consider visiting the shelter at Wonga Road, Picton, or call Wollondilly Council on (02) 4677 1144 or (02) 4677 1119 for details and opening hours.

HSC Lectures @ Macarthur Libraries 2009 is flying by and while the class of '08 are still reminiscing about their formals, current year 12 students are studying hard. There's only four months to go until our students sit some of the most important exams

12 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

of their life and Macarthur Libraries want to help! Libraries in the Macarthur region are once again banding together to offer a diverse range of lectures for local HSC students for the low cost of $5.50. Here are the lecture details for Picton Library. English: Monday 29 June from 5pm 7pm - Picton Library Area of Study - Belonging Presented by Larry Grumley Author of HSC study guides and former HSC marker. English: Friday 3 July from 5:30pm 7pm- Picton Library Area of study - Peter Skrzynecki Immigrant Chronicle A full program of HSC events is available on the Library's website www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au

in place until further investigations are carried out and necessary action can be taken. The council is taking this precautionary measure with community safety as its highest priority. For updates visit the council's website h t t p : / / w w w. w o l l o n d i l l y. n s w. g o v. a u

Rock falls closes lane The recent rain, has caused some minor rock falls at the rock face along Remembrance Driveway at the Old Razorback Road intersection north of Picton. As a safety precaution Wollondilly Shire Council will close the inside traffic lane, with only one lane remaining open in each direction. These changed traffic conditions will be

Deborah Abela enchants young readers in Wollondilly

Superspy author delighted readers More than 300 Year 5 and 6 students were thrilled last month as best selling children's

author Deborah Abela visited Picton to talk to students from local primary schools as part of Library and Information Week celebrations. Deborah Abela, author of the very successful 'Max Remy Superspy' series of books, delighted and entertained the students by reading from her novels bringing her vibrant characters to life. Deborah showed hilarious movies from her days as a writer on Cheez TV and told stories from her travelling days and from working with soccer hero Johnny Warren on the Jack Zammit (Soccer Legend) series of books. Her most recent book, 'The Remarkable Secret of Aurelie Bonhoffen' was released in March 2009. All of Deborah Abela's novels are available to loan from Wollondilly Library and Information Service. "We were so excited to have had Deborah come and speak to the students of our shire. Deborah is such a talented and popular author and the students have had such a great time," Georgina Konstanta, Children and Young Adults Library Officer said. She said there was a long queue for the author's autograph. "Library and Information Week was the perfect time for to host this exciting event and we were so happy to see so many of the students borrowing and reading Deborah's fantastic books from our library," Ms Konstanta added.

Real Estate Report $199,900 Tahmoor 2 bedrooms villa with built ins, modern kitchen & bathroom. Air conditioned living, fully enclosed Queensland style sunroom. Automatic garage & garden shed included L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $289,000 Tahmoor Net & tidy 3 bedroom home, 3-way bathroom, two separate living areas, level low maintenance block. No work required. Currently returns $ 230.00 per week. Century 21 Picton 4677 2155 $309,000 Bargo Level 1000m2+ block & 20m frontage. Freshly painted 3 bedroom brick veneer home with built ins. Lounge area with a bar, large kitchen, dining area & single garage. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $323,000 YANDERRA This 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on 1094m2, offers an well-appointed kitchen, L shape living area, down lights, outdoor space with timber deck pergola & detached double garage. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $331,000 Picton Ideal for Retirement. Set on low maintenance block, 3 bedrooms, dining off kitchen, sep. lounge, new carpet installed, single garage with internal access. Century 21 Picton 4677 2155 $335,000 Picton Less than 300 metres to Town centre. 3 bedroom with built-in's, 3-way bathroom, separate lounge, dining off kitchen, split air cond, single garage. Century 21 Picton 4677 2155 $339,500 Wilton The perfect location. 3 bedroom all have builtin's, 3-way bathroom with access from main, family room, dining off kitchen, single garage with internal access, small front verandah. Century 21 Picton 4677 2155 $360,000 Picton Character filled 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Huge living, separate dining & modern

Galley kitchen. Front & rear deck. Side access with very large American barn L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $390,000 PICTON Renovated Edwardian home offers timber floors, decorative cornices, high ceilings, ornate fireplace, new timber kitchen, federation style bathroom with an claw bath, pergola, single garage & storage on 2276m2. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $393,000 BUXTON This 4.9-acre block secluded & privately position, backs onto Nattai National Park. It has phone & 3-phase power connected to front gate, town water available. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $398,000 Thirlmere HUGE 4047m2 well fenced block with a 3 bedroom home, open plan living with air con & SC fire. Double garage & separate toilet/workshop, located close to all amenities. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $476,950 West Hoxton Currently being used as a display home is this double storey 4 bedroom home featuring alarm, ducted air con, double garage, quiet street, only moments to Carnes Hill shopping centre. Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067 $549,900 Bargo 3.3 acres. Ranchstyle home. Ensuite + large parents retreat. S/C fire. Split cycle air. Assorted shedding. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348 $595,000 Theresa Park 7.5 acres. all weather driveway leads to where you can build the home of your dreams. 4 car garage. water filled dam, prestigious homes & tall stands of trees sourround you. Dougmal R/E Camden 4655 9888

$399,000 Narellan 4 Bedrooms, ensuite + study * Huge kitchen & family room * Large lounge, fireplace & airconditioning * Double garage, covered outdoor area, side access. Elders Real Estate Camden 4655 3000

$649,000 Thirlmere 6.23 acres with everything, spacious 4 bedrooms plus study, large open plan living areas, wrap around verandah, inground pool, double garage plus workshop and 4 bay farm shed. United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

$449,000 Thirlmere Immaculate & private 4-bedroom home, main with extras, Tasmanian Oak timber kitchen, formal lounge & dining. Family room & rumpus, 2 covered entertaining areas, huge shed + additional carport. L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$699,000 Rossmore 5 acres of land located in a quiet street with a original "A" frame house, only moments to West Hoxton shops, M7 Motorway. Organise your inspection today! Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067

$454,500 Thirlmere 5 bedroom split level home set on 3603sqm block with rural aspect. Large formal & informal living areas, kitchen opens onto large deck area. Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$719,000 Wilton Outstanding Rural Acres. 40 Acres of level rural land 2 minutes out of Wilton Village. Mostely cleared, town water & power. Good road frontage. Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$469,000

$720,000 Bringelly Ready, set , build on 5 acres of cleared, vacant land, fenced, approx 71m frontage, no town water, don’t miss out, priced reduced as owner wants to sell! Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067

PHEASANTS NEST

5.58 acres with 2-bedroom Colorbond dwelling with open plan living, modern kitchen, SC fire & Undercover entertaining. 7m x 7m Colorbond garage. Rinnai instantaneous HWS & mezzanine storage.

$769,000 Denham Court Excellent aspect and almost level fully fenced sought after vacant block. Very few vacant blocks left in this prestigious area so close to all amenities. United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222 $789,000 Bringelly 5 acres with 2 road frontage, rare opportunity, perfect for dual occupancy, renovated cottage with high ceilings, two dams, excellent usable block. United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222 $795,000 Austral What an opportunity to purchase 3 acres of vacant land bordering West Hoxton and Austral. This land is ready for you to build the house of your dreams (S.T.C.A), this property has been reduced. Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067 $795,000 Austral 3 excellent acres with a spacious & solid 3 bedroom full brick home boasting large living areas, fully equipped eat-in kitchen, 2 bathrooms, reverse cycle air conditioning, garage/workshop & carport. United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222 $1,075,000 Austral Well presented 5 bedroom single level brick home with swimming pool, pergola, 3 acres, timber kitchen with sand stone bench tops, bedrooms with built-ins, corner position! Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067 $1,145,000 Kelvin Park 5 acres 2 homes - main house consist of 3 double size bedrooms, ensuite & walk in robe to main, beautiful timber kitchen and large lounge and family room. Ducted air, huge timber deck and inground pool. United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222 $1,395,000 Cobbitty Full brick mansion with granny flat, 5 huge bedrooms with built-ins, huge formal & informal living areas, timber kitchen, 4-6 car garage with large brick machinery shed with much more on high & excellent 5 acres. United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 13

District Diary District Diary is open to all non-profit community groups. If you have a community event that you would like advertised, drop us a line 10 days before the event - either by fax 4655 3897, email: [email protected] or send us a letter at The District Reporter, P.O. Box 116, Camden 2570. Wollondilly Cancer Support The Wollondilly Cancer Group offers assistance to those associated with cancer related programs. Patients and carers seeking help with emotional, financial and household difficulties are invited to contact the group to discuss possible aid in difficult times. The group meets on the first Monday of the month at the Picton Bowling Club at 6.30pm.Call 0439 467 850. Church Bazaar Tahmoor Anglican Church next Bazaar is on Thursday, June 25 from 9.30 am till 12noon. Call Yvonne at 4681 0215 for details. Woodturners Demo Macarthur Woodturners next meeting is on Sunday, June 28 at Robert Townson High School, Raby starting at 9.45 am. There's an interesting demo this month - go along and meet new people and find out more about this craft. Visitors welcome. Call Neil on 4631 1317.

bers are limited - call 4684 1112. Picton School Fun Day Get along to Picton Public School, 27 Lumsdaine Street, Picton on Sunday, July 5 between 10am and 2pm for its annual fun day. There will be lots of interesting stalls, children's activities, fantastic food and check out the entertainment, including pony and carnival rides for the whole family. The fun day is the school's major fundraising event. VIEW Club Camden View Club will meet at the Camden RSL Club on Monday July 13 at 11.30am for lunch to celebrate its 47th Birthday. Guest speaker will be Norm Stanton, speaking about Missing Persons New members welcome. Please ring Christine 46272035 for bookings. Caring Hands Volunteers are needed to provide a little pampering to residents at Camden House through the Red Cross' Caring Hands on Program by provides hand massages and manicures. This is a free service to the clients. No experience required, full training provided. For more details call Cecilia 9822 2633 or Free Call 1800 352 220.

Sewing Guild Sewing enthusiasts of all levels and ages are invited to the Australian Sewing Guild's Camden/Narellan Day Group meeting at Harrington Park Community Centre from 10am to 3pm on Wednesday, June 24. For details call Mirella 4683 1716.

Parents Connect The Benevolent Society's Parents Connect provides an opportunity for parents with young children to meet, enjoy morning tea and the company of other parents and children in a happy and safe environment. Parents Connect is located in Ingleburn, Ambarvale, Mt. Annan and Tahmoor and operates during school terms. For details call 46274872.

Camden Quota Quota International of Camden welcomes new members interested in active service club works. Dinner meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at Camden Civic Centre. Call 4657 1723 for details.

Pen to Paper The Camden Writers and Scribblers meet at the Narellan Library on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10am to 12noon. New members are welcome and there is no age limit. Call Grace on 4655 6064.

Trefoil Guild Were you ever a member of the Girl Guides? If so, to keep in touch with guiding and all that it does for the girls of today, become a Trefoil member. The guild meets at the Camden Guide Hall, on the fourth Thursday of the month at 1pm. Contact Judy on 4655 8792 or Joan on 4646 1041, for more information.

Knitters Needed Camden Hospital Auxiliary needs ladies who love to knit baby wear especially booties as stocks are running low. Wool provided and pick up and delivery available. If you can help call Robyn 4647 2083.

Women's Wellness The Wollondilly Women's Wellness Group meet each Friday fortnight and on the agenda is friendship, fun and learning to maintain active mind body and spirit. Call the Centre for Women's Health on 46333 777 or 1800 077 760 for more information. Senior VIPS Senior VIPs meet at Thirlmere Anglican Church on Wednesday, July 1 from 10 am till midday. This month there will be a demonstration on Lace Making. For details call and transport call Pat Hartley at 4681 9508. Christmas at Wirrimbirra Christmas in July at Wirrimbirra will be on July 4 at 7pm. Experience Christmas in winter in the beautiful bushland surrounds of Wirrimbirra Sanctuary, Remembrance Drive, Bargo (about half-way between Tahmoor and Bargo). Cost is just $25 per person, and $10 for kids under 13. There'll be a traditional Christmas dinner, with lots of fun and prizes throughout the evening. The fire will be going, and Santa will be calling in. Bookings are essential as num-

Wollondilly's Over 55 Do you enjoy the company of others and are over 55? Wollondilly's Over 55 Social Group is inviting you to get along to its group - singles and couples welcome. Contact Louisa on 4680 8358 or Susan at Community Links Wollondilly 4683 3661. Giving Up Thousands have found the answer in Alcoholics Anonymous. Meetings are held each Friday at 8pm in the CWA Rooms, 13 Cawdor Street, Camden (behind Camden Central, Coles car park, entry off Cawdor Road). Helpline 9799 1199 (24 hours, seven days). There is also a Wollondilly group which meets Wednesdays at 8pm the Shack in the grounds of the Catholic Church, Stratford Street, Tahmoor. Contact Ray on 4684 1410 for details. These groups are not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution. Hooks and Needles Picton Crochet and Knitting Group meet 10.30am every Wednesday at the Picton Bowling Club. All ages and skill levels welcome. Contact Clare for more details 0414 799 509.

Heart support Macarthur Heart Support offers information, support and encouragement to people with heart conditions and their carers. The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month at the Campbelltown RSL at 7pm with guest speakers. Make new friends who understand. New members welcomed. For details call Lea (02) 9820 1161, Betty (02) 9605 2475, Margaret (02) 4625 7492. Lifesaving Deposit Liverpool Red Cross Donor Centre has new operating hours to encourage people to make a donation. The centre at 5-6/50 Macquarie Street, Liverpool is open on these dates: Monday, closed; Tuesday, 10am-7.45pm; Wednesday 8am4pm; Thursday, 11am- 7.45pm; Friday, 8am 4pm; Saturday, 8am-4pm; Every alternate Saturday call 96124000 for dates and details. Men's Shed Looking for a new challenge? Men with some free time can join the Camden Men's Shed which meets 9am Tuesdays at the Clubhouse Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park, enter from Exeter Street. Plenty of fellowship through some chit chat and light voluntary work on the Park. The common theme is about men feeling useful while contributing to the community, making new friends and enjoying a healthy lifestyle. For details call Peter Standen 0417 281 934. Stitch and Purl Macarthur Knitters Group meets the third Monday and the fourth Saturday monthly between 9.30am-3pm. CWA Hall, Coles carpark. Beginners and experienced knitters welcome. Call Raelene 4651 2697 or Pam 4648 3894. Indulge your Hobby There are classes for all ages and interests at the H J Starr Progress Hall, 264 Edmondson Avenue, Austral. Playgroup: Monday 10am; Jewellery classes Tuesday 10 am; Cardmaking classes Thursday 10am; Craft Classes Thursday 1pm; Tai-Chi Classes Friday 9.30 am. Volunteers for Visits Australian Red Cross seeks volunteers to visit lonely and isolated residents at Queen Victoria Memorial Home, Picton for one hour per fortnight. Training is provided and volunteers are placed to visit residents with similar interests. Call Carole on 1800 352 220 (free call). Fine Stitches: The Wollondilly Group of the Embroiderers Guild meets on the second, fourth and fifth Mondays of the month in the Uniting Church Hall, Lumsdaine St, Picton. Everyone catered for from beginners to

advanced. Call Avice on 4636 6218 or Margaret on 4654 5570. Join the Band Come along and join others who enjoy playing band music. Music with fun. All ages are welcome. Learners to professional standard. Camden Community Band has practice nights Tuesday at Camden Primary School. Senior band 7.30pm. Intermediate level 6.15pm. For details call 0409985902. Free Bus Service In partnership with Picton Buslines, South West Community Transport will be offering a monthly shopping bus service on the first Friday of each month for residents living in Picton, Tahmoor, Thirlmere and Bargo. Passengers will be picked up from either their local streets or if the bus is unable to drive down the street from a local cross street and arrive in Campbelltown at 10.30am and depart at 1.30pm. Call 1300 138794. Hone the Tones Are you afraid to speak in public - would you like to conquer that fear, painlessly and enjoyably? Camden Toastmasters Club can help you. The group meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Paling Court in the grounds of Carrington Retirement Village, Werombi Road, Grasmere at 7.30pm sharp. The club is very supportive and friendly. New members welcomed. Call George 4655 9622, Michele 0417 443 146, Ashlea 4655 3438. Women's Church A church service just for women meets every Thursday during the school term from 9.30am. This term will look at 'Born to Do', Practical Living from the book of James, through inspiring talks, vibrant music and discussion groups. After the service, there is Cafe 31, for a chance to discuss the topic of the day in life groups. All welcome. Child minding available. Call 4655 1675 for more details. Movie Chat Talking Movies meets the first Wednesday afternoon, 1.30pm at the Campbelltown Arts Centre Café, and then the last Friday evening of the month, 7.15pm at the Uniting Church, Allman St. Campbelltown. The group watches a film together on the Friday evening. See website for other details: www.talkingmovies.org or call Paul Mowen on 0415 055 717.

CLASSIFIEDS email: [email protected]

Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897

DEATH NOTICES CRAVEN, Albert Edward (Eddie) Late of Kingsgrove. Loved husband of Elsie, cherished father of Francis, Julie and Glenys, loved Pa of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Aged 95 years

Adored Mother of Glenn and Julie and a devoted Nanna.

HAZLETT, Elizabeth Eden 'Beth' 21.08.1991-13.06.2009 Loved and adored daughter of Robert and Amy. Precious grandchild of Robert and Cheryl Hazlett and Judith Brown. Beloved by all her uncles and aunts, cousins, Nathan and all her family and friends. To our precious Little Pumpkin who was full of life, love and laughter. She will forever live in our hearts. Aged 17 years

EMPLOYMENT

White Lady Funerals Funeral Directors Camden 4655-8265

Motivated entrepreneurs; Hotest new business - Gets results; Serious only; As seen on TV. Ph: 0450 413 637

WILLIAM R. GROVES Funeral Directors Picton 4677-1644 Camden 4655-6433 --------------------------------------------VILLIS, Robyn Grace (Nanny) 15.06.2009 Late of Airds. Beloved wife of Paul. Much loved mother of Brett, Paul, Jason, Trudy and Tanya, their partners and families. Loving sister of Yvonne and family. Aged 63 years Rest in Peace Marr. WILLIAMS, Lynette Kay Passed away 12.06.2009. Late of Glenfield. Beloved wife if Robert. 14 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

FOR SALE BERRIMANS GIFTS we sell a selection of new and vintage gifts and home décor.You can order a large piece of furniture or pick up a small gift such as soap or chocolate. At Berrimans Gifts you will always get “Much more than you expect” 300c Cobbitty Rd, Cobbitty 2570. Open Thursday to Sunday 10am to 4 pm. Ph: 0404 574 260

SERVICE GUIDE

email: [email protected]

Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897

ACCOUNTANTS

ELECTRICIAN

PET SERVICES

SCRAP METAL

ANTENNAS

FENCING

PLUMBING

SWIMMING POOLS

MACARTHUR RURAL FENCING Specialising in:

p p p p p

Rural Stock Fencing Cattle Yards Post & Rail Chainwire Elegant Entries

Ph: 0403 138 996

Firewood $90

per cubic - metre

Free delivery in local area

Home: (02) 4658 0042

AUCTIONS

FENCING

AUTO PARTS & REPAIRS

FENCING

BLINDS & CURTAINS

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

CARPENTERS

LAWN & PASTURE CARE

CLEANING - BLINDS

LAWN MOWING

CLEANING - CARPET

OFFICE PRODUCTS

CLEANING - TILES

PET SERVICES

Monday June 22, 2009 The District Reporter 15

The Camden Historical Society meets for lively discussions and guest speakers on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm at the Camden Museum on John Street Camden. Interested persons and new members are most welcome. For further information call John on 4655 9210.

Eliza Pearson - Camden's first Postmistress By Julie Wrigley

I

n the nineteenth century it was not respectable for a married woman to go to work, unless she was left a widow. The death of a husband could leave a woman destitute, but it might also open opportunities she would not otherwise have had. Eliza Pearson was able to be appointed as Camden's first Postmistress after the death of her husband, who was the district's first Postmaster. Eliza had been born Eliza Doody in Liverpool, England about 1798 (to parents Roger and Mary Doody, nee Bourne). Eliza had married James Pearson in Liverpool in 1822. In 1825 they had come to Australia on the ship 'Deveron' as free immigrants, as a young couple with one child. In Sydney, James set up as a shopkeeper, music teacher, and piano tuner. In 1827 he was appointed as 'organist and choirmaster' at St James Church of England Sydney, being the first to hold that position, which he held until 1831. James and Eliza came to Australia with a daughter, Amelia (born in London in 1823); had five children in Sydney: Charlotte (1825), James (1827), Eliza (1829), Alfred (1831) and Jessie (1834); and had a daughter in Cawdor, Isabel (1837). In 1834 Eliza Pearson came to Cawdor with her husband who had been appointed Clerk of Petty Sessions at Cawdor. James kept this position until he died. In 1836 when the Goulburn mail coach

A sketch of the first post office at 61 Argyle Street, Camden, about 1887 began to set down at Cawdor courthouse, James became the first Postmaster in the Camden district, and Eliza assisted with his duties. Mails were carried efficiently by coach, and letters given in at the Sydney Post office by five in the evening were in the hands of Mrs Pearson early next morning. In May 1841 the Post Office moved from Cawdor to Camden but James died suddenly on July 13, 1841, to the great sorrow of his wife. He was buried at St Paul's Church at Cobbitty. James and William Macarthur looked after Mrs Pearson, remitting Pearson's debt to them, signing a bond dated August 1841 as guarantors, and helping her to obtain her husband's place as Postmistress. At first she received no salary, but she had a rent-free cottage at 61 Argyle Street, (which is not the present Post Office site) and she had a small shop in this building. Dr Alan Atkinson has written, in

16 The District Reporter Monday June 22, 2009

his book 'Camden - Farm and Village Life in Early New South Wales', some details about Mrs Pearson as Postmistress: "She had a new and substantial cottage to live in, built by Lefevre the carpenter, weatherboard, fan-lighted and rent-free, 'during her life, or so long as she chooses to occupy the same'. She made a little money by the sale of stamps, and on the side she offered among other things cabbage-tree hats, drapery, lollypops and Holloway's Pills. She also took in laundry. By various efforts she was able to preserve a few precious things which are described in her will as heirlooms 'plate and jewellery', enough to distribute among her five daughters, whenever she should die." For the 38 years between 1841 and 1879 Eliza worked as a reliable and conscientious Postmistress. It was reported in a local paper that William Macarthur once said, "When away from home, I have to

write to my mother every day, not because she expects me to but because Mrs Pearson, the postmistress does." James and Eliza's eldest daughter, Amelia became the principal midwife of the Camden village and was married at Narellan (1842) to John Wellings. His great-greatgreat-grandson, Kevin Wellings, wrote an account of his family connections in the 'Berrima District Historical Society Newsletter' in September 2001. The Pearsons' elder son, James (b. 1827) was a carpenter who worked on St John's Church, but absconded for a period before returning and working out his apprenticeship. He married Rebecca Boothby Boardman in April 1849. James and Rebecca's marriage was in St John's Church about two months before the church was formally consecrated. In August 1878 Captain Arthur

Onslow M.P. wrote a letter requesting a pension for Mrs Pearson,"I desire to bring under your notice the case of Mrs Pearson the Postmistress at Camden. Her health is rapidly failing and her doctor has told her it is necessary she should give up her duties. . . She has been 37 years in charge of the Camden Post Office and assisted her husband in his duties for some years previously to this and during this long career I do not think she has given cause for any complaints." When she received a letter stating that there were no funds available for a pension, in October 1878, Eliza herself wrote, "I am unwilling to believe that after thirty-seven years of hard work at a low salary, providing my own office, light, furniture, etc., that the Government would suffer me to die at my Post or be driven from it without provision for my support. Although suffering acute pain from heart disease, and almost unable to sit up, I am compelled from a sense of responsibility to superintend the work of my assistant, not knowing the moment when I may be wholly incapacitated." She managed to arrange with the government for her granddaughter, Amelia (Alfred's daughter) to succeed her as Postmistress. Eliza Pearson died on May 26, 1879 and was buried at St John's Cemetery Camden. On her death Eliza left six hundred pounds to be divided among her five daughters. Atkinson says it was not uncommon for women to use wills "to increase the power of female friends and relatives", unlike men who used wills to "to embellish the patriarchal name". Eliza Pearson can be remembered for her service to the community and her dedication as Camden first Postmistress. Dr Alan Atkinson's book is available for sale at the Camden Museum.