Vol 12 No 23 P O Box 116 CAMDEN NSW 2570 Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897 editor@tdr.com.au Monday, June 15, 2009

Children’s pirate ship wreckedVandals destroyed a popular play-ground attraction at Picton BotanicalGarden last week.

Half of the pirate ship play equip-ment was damaged to the extent thatit had been pulled off and discardedat the playground site.

It is the latest in a series of attacksat the garden.

Craig 'Podge' Davies, the park'sforeman, is disgusted by the latestattack which happened some time onWednesday night.

The crew found the half of theboat ripped off.

"It's very heavy, it must havetaken at least three people to pull itoff," Mr Davies said.

He said the park and the play-ground is a popular destination formothers and their children, walkersand anyone who enjoys a bit of timeout.

"On Friday, June 5, there was alsoa lot of damage in the garden - thebridge and seats were damaged with

plants and small trees thrown into thepond."

It didn't stop there - the vandalsstruck again the following day.

"Each time we tidied up the mess,it's a shame because the garden isstarting to look really nice with allthe plants," Mr Davies said.

He said to fix the boat wouldprobably cost around $5000.

Wollondilly mayor, councillorMichael Banasik, is also outraged bythe senseless destruction. He said itnot only costs the council but also thecommunity.

For the money that will be spenton repairing the damage, the councilcould have built a new playgroundwithin the shire.

While the mayor dismissed anynotion of removing the play equip-ment, he said it would be a "sad day"if that had to happen.

..... continued page 4

Capturing heritage through a lens

The winners of the 2009 Camden Heritage photography competition are: Patrick Stannard(Best Narellan Category), Angela Tween (Open Category) Alannah Warn (12-18 years

Category), Roslyn Hodgins (Technical Excellence Category), Isaac Percy (Under 12 yearsCategory). Photo by Olev Muska

The 2009 Camden Heritage photog-raphy competition attracted doublethe entrants and showcased a varietyof works depicting the hidden treas-ures of the area - from the famous tothe subtle.

The first competition was held in2007 as part of the Narellan@180celebrations, and was only focusingon heritage in the greater Narellanarea.

The success of that event prompt-ed organisers to widen the subjectarea and matter and by all accounts -it's gaining popularity among pho-tography buffs.

Photography is medium that isoften considered the poorer cousin ofother art forms - but in the 21st cen-tury it is finding a wider audienceand more appreciation.

Pam Browne, one of the organis-ers of the earlier event was impressedwith the increase in entries and thevariety.

"I was impressed by the breadthof the subject matter - ranging frombuilt form to intricate architecturaldetail, natural heritage and memora-bilia.

"The standard of the under 12sand 12-18 years was particularly out-standing."

Ms Browne has her fingerscrossed that the competition willbecome an annual event in the localgovernment area's cultural calendar.

She said the sub-theme for the2010 competition will be 'OurDiggers'.

"The organisers wish to thank thegenerosity of the competition spon-sors - the councillors of CamdenCouncil, Bruce Reilly, Rotary Clubof Narellan, Narellan Town Centre,Camden Creative Studios, HandprintPhotography and Vale DisplaySolutions," Ms Browne added.

Professional photographer, KylieLyons from Narellan said there weresome really "great works" on show.

"Some of the under 12s havegood photographer's eyes," MsLyons said.

She said that a lot of thought andeffort was put in by many of entrantsand they really "looked for the hid-den treasures".

Craig 'Podge' Davies, Picton Botanic Garden's foreman with Wollondilly mayor, councillorMichael Banasik angered by the vandalism at the park

2 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

Letters to the editor

New Federal Government ministerial reshuffleThe resignation of the Minister for Defence, Joel Fitzgibbon, hashighlighted the need for politicians to be extremely discrete in theway they use their position of power.

The apparent use of his ministerial office by his brother to con-duct business is clearly wrong and the Prime Minister was right toask his ally and friend to step down. It is the first blemish to berecorded against the Rudd Government since taking office, regard-less it would be fair to say that the Prime Minister has run a disci-plined team performance relatively free of scandal in stark contrastto the early Howard years.

The subsequent reshuffle has allowed the Prime Minister theopportunity to again reassert his will over his side of parliamentand there are no surprises to see former ACTU Secretary, GregCombet and former NSW State Secretary, Mark Arbib promoted toministerial positions. They are both loyal to the Prime Ministerand talented.

The shuffle has also resulted in Senator John Faulkner takingover the Defence portfolio and this is a move which should sendshivers up the spine of a few Defence Department staff that havenot been loyal to the previous minister. While there are a few hon-ourable hard working staff members within the department, therewill also be some who will regret their recent treacherous behav-iour which was never in the national interest and only served selfinterest. Our soldiers deserve better from its administrative staffwhich have performed below par, without distinction.

John Faulkner is a formidable administrator and will continuethe unfinished business of rationalising the department to improveefficiency. People will recall senate inquiries conducted by JohnFaulkner are robust encounters. This minister is intelligent, toughand incorruptible. He is respected by both his friends and enemiesand he will quickly impose his position on the department.

The Prime Minister's reshuffle showed confidence which is instark contrast to his 'fair shake of the sauce bottle' comments lastweek. It seems someone is trying to turn the PM into a 'bloke' andthat is something Australians will find hard to swallow. KevinRudd has an unusual manner of speech but, he is a very good com-municator and his clumsy attempt to use colloquial language issimply embarrassing.

Pretending to be someone he's not will only confuse voters andwe can only hope that his advisors have already seen the errors oftheir ways.

When Australians voted for Kevin07 they wanted a fresh face,a new start. The economy was already slowing and people werehurting and Kevin Rudd was able to pick up on those concerns. Hehas a wonderful ability understanding people in the street as didJohn Howard, but more importantly he has empathy for people andthis is his great strength.

HOW MUCH AM I WILL-ING TO PAY TO HAVE THE

MONEY I WANT?Mark Latham's insensitive spray against our servicemen andwomen took the edge off an insightful view of Labor's largessewith taxpayer funds. Joel Fitzgibbon's tenure as DefenceMinister was untenable after his indiscretions with his Chineseconnections.

Our senior strategists in the Defence Department are chargedwith assessing threats to our national security and ensuring wehave the proper force structure and resources to meet them. Theyhave a complex and costly role that includes a high level of riskfor our nation. Kevin Rudd's selection of Senator John Faulkneras our new Defence Minister is a wise choice. Faulkner is high-ly respected for his personal and political integrity and his formi-dable forensic skills in Senate Estimates Committees. Even MarkLatham would have to acknowledge this.

Faulkner will be assisted by Greg Combet as Minister forDefence Personnel, Material and Science. Although Combet is arelative newcomer to parliament his previous experience in theTrade Union Movement indicates that he is well suited for thisjob. The professional integrity of our Defence Force Chiefs andthe Secretary of the Department, Nick Warner, are beyondreproach. Kevin Rudd should be congratulated for ensuring ourDefence Department has the best of his team assigned to thisimportant role.

Mark Arbib is one of the big winners in the reshuffle. He hasearned his stripes in the role he played in Labor's election toGovernment. He is young, intelligent and a professional expo-nent in the art of politics. The same can be said of Chris Bowen,who has been promoted to Minister for Financial Services.However his early statement that Australia should seek moreinvestments from Muslim countries will have raised an eyebrowor two. There are still many who remember Gough Whitlam'spolitically fatal attempt to deal with a Pakistani money lender bythe name of Tirath Khemlani in the early 1970s.

The promotion of Jason Clare to Parliamentary Secretary forEmployment is worth watching. Clare occupies former primeminister, Paul Keating's old seat of Blaxland and is widely recog-nised as one of Labor's rising stars. Having recently led a groupof Lebanese Muslims and Cronulla surfies which was organisedby Jason Clare and his Liberal counterpart, Scott Morrison, I canvouch for his ability.

Kevin Rudd's election and his current standing in the pollshave allowed him a degree of independence from Labor's tribalfactions. His appointments in the reshuffle are based on meritwhich is a unique political experience for Labor. To use a Lathamterm - they are certainly not factional "meatheads".

BrianStewart

Lee Abrahams, Editor

Intentional destructionWhat goes through the mind of a person who intentionally destroys play-ground equipment? One has to wonder. The latest vandalism attack atPicton Botanic Garden saw the popular pirate ship, which was a well usedamusement at the playground torn and dumped.

Of course the vandal/s who did this, did it under the cover of darkness,so as not to be seen - what a courageous thing to do. Let's hope whoeverdid this goes out and brags about their adventure and maybe they will getwhat they deserve when the police turn up at their door.

This kind of act is a black mark on society. Not only has this action costthe council and ratepayers but also makes people wary of going into thepark - and takes children's enjoyment. People should be able to feel safeand visit their local recreational areas - at appropriate times.

In summer, it's a great way to enjoy daylight savings. WollondillyCouncil is now looking at increasing lighting as a first step in ensuringagainst other vandalism attacks.

According to the park supervisor, it was the third attack in a week, theother two times there was damage to the seats and bridge and plants rippedout and thrown in the pond. Unfortunately the community loses out whenthis type of action happens and the workers who put in time and effort tomake the park look attractive also feel hard done by.

In the bigger picture, this incident might be small, but respecting otherpeople's and the community's property should be instilled from a young age- it is one of the things that makes a civilised society.

Focus on photography Congratulations to the organisers of the Camden Heritage Photographycompetition./ Let's hope this event becomes as popular as the Camden ArtPrize. Unfortunately photography as an art form as taken a back seat fro

many years - but with so many budding photographersout there and advances in technology - there is room inthe local government area for a photography event.

Last week's textbook technicality which rescuedAustralia's economy from recession didn't suc-ceed in giving back jobs to the unemployed orrecompensing suffering investors and superan-nuants: their global economic crisis (and ours)grinds on.

The strange irony underlying this currentfinancial hiatus is that its underlying problemisn't money. Money, after all, is neutral, inert; it'sjust another commodity.

What this monetary downturn is really aboutare the lengths to which people have gone to getmoney, and what they've done with it afterthey've obtained it.

The allure of money, and love for it, isbeguiling: "One who thinks money can doeverything is likely to do anything to get it,"says an ancient Hasidic saying.

Under its narcotic influence, the love ofmoney blinds us to the true value of personalrelationships and of work, pushing us towards(or keeping us in!) an unhealthy relationship oran unsatisfying career.

The love of money morphs ambitiousachievers into workaholics neglectful of familyand friends, or into perpetrators of conductwhich pollutes their souls and shames their fam-ilies. Diminished individuals, their social wor-thiness and their financial worth occupy oppos-ing hemispheres.

It's one thing to desire money to escapepoverty and provide for truly basic necessities.It's quite another to make money our primarymotivation and measure of success, or to naive-ly equate happiness or worthiness with wealth.

"The money you have gives you freedom,but the money you pursue enslaves you" said theFrench philosopher, Rousseau. Our challenge isto put the value of money into perspective.

Do it by answering this question: How mucham I willing to pay to have the money I want?

bstewart@ispdr.net.au

Camden Council admits that is has no comprehen-sive study into what "internal efficiencies" can beundertaken to avoid taking an extra 12,25 per centoff ratepayers.

It is absolutely critical that the council openlypublish a list of "internal efficiencies" it can under-take to cut costs to stay on budget before attempt-ing to bleed ratepayers.

The council states that it spent an extra$500,000 on salaries in2007/08 but cannot tell mehow much extra it spent in 2008/09.

The council's expectation of grabbing moremoney of each household and business has no con-crete basis.

It is simply an attempt to con ratepayers out oftheir hard earned money.

Council claims its land (rather our land) inSmeaton Grange Industrial Estate was valued at$2.37 million in 2008. It does not mention itsrecent purchase of another investment property inTurner Road.

Council will not disclose how much was paidfor the land. Council refuses to tell its ratepayershow much it is spending.

Sources estimate the purchase price is around$1.5 million.

I challenge the council to publish the address of

all the land it owns so that ratepayers can do adrive-by and see where our hard earned dollars aregoing.

Remember the excitement earlier this yearabout the proposed P&N soft drink factory to bebuilt at Smeaton Grange with the potential to pro-vide many local jobs.

Unfortunately Camden council led P&N downthe garden path encouraging the company to spendheavily of development costs. The council then atthe last minute informed P&N that the soft drinkfacility could not be built.

The 11 hectare P&N site is now up for sale.Why did Camden Council lead a major devel-

oper along with costly false expectations?The council has an expensive history of invit-

ing manufactures to set up in Smeaton Grangewithout checking out the impacts. This profession-al failure by the council has cost ratepayers hun-dreds of hours in useless reports and hundred andthousands of ratepayer dollars.

It is very clear that we need to look long andhard at the executive salaries of Camden Council.

Greg FrawleyCurran Hill.

Looking closely at spending

If you would like to send a Letter to the Editor, please keep your letter to a reasonable length, 200 words is pre-ferred. Letters can be edited for space or legal reasons. Address all correspondence To the Editor, The District

Reporter, PO Box 116, Camden 2570.

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 3

GARAGE SALE

Lic No. 115083c

Big sheds & small sheds (from 2m to 40m wide).Weekenders, Farm Sheds, Stables, Garages,

Carports, School Shelters, Commercial &Industrial Buildings.

-

Tailor-made to suit your requirements.

ALMOST ANYTHING!!

92

70

00

1

Cut out the middle-man.Avoid the manufacturer.We deliver direct from Bluescope

Free Brochures

Free On-site Quotes

Free Building Advice

CRAIG’S

Steel Buildings

R

Phone Craig Willmington on

02 4773 4478 or 0419 993 723

Custom Builtfor you

Court houseopened for debate

Representing the affirmative - Camden High students - (left to right) Elodie Gooden, Jack Bennett,Amilia Booth and Tess Madeley with Jodie Grundy from Camden Council, Sergeant Grant Bicknell from

Macquarie Fields Highway Patrol, Rachelle Barber from Wollondilly Council - Picton High studentsdebating the negative - Emily Drescher, Kiernan Seymour and Trisha Glover.

Students from Camden andPicton high schools recentlyexchanged a few words in thelocal court house.

The Year 10 students debatedthe hot topic of P-Plate restric-tions with passengers.

Melissa Schriever, the clientsservices librarian at PictonLibrary, said the event which

was staged during Law Week,saw three students from each ofthe schools battle it out atCamden Court House.

Camden High debated theaffirmative, while Picton Highput up a good case against.

"The Picton High studentswon the debate," Ms Schrieversaid.

"This is the first time theevent was run, but it looks like itwill become an annual event.

"It was really successful witha lot of positive feedback fromboth students and teachers."

Ms Schriever added it wasalso a worthwhile collaborationbetween the two local govern-ment area libraries.

Tranpsort issues on the right trackWollondilly Shire Council's Transport Forum hasbeen hailed as a success with a full house in atten-dance all keen to discuss this hot topic.

Many different groups were representedincluded the Wollondilly Economic DevelopmentAdvisory Group, Wollondilly Seniors AdvisoryGroup, Disability Access Advisory Committee,RTA, the Ministry of Transport, Railcorp, local buscompanies, concerned residents, Staff from neigh-bouring councils also attended including the Mofro Wollondilly and NSW Minister, Phil Costaalong with the Shadow Spokesperson for TransportGladys Berejiklian.

Assessing the transport needs of the communi-

ty was the theme of the day and included showcas-ing the assets in the shire as well as what workswell in other areas and exploring the possibilitiesfor future directions.

"The forum was a great success with many dif-fering groups from the whole South West region. Itwas an important Forum for Wollondilly and hope-fully there will be more to come," Wollondillymayor, councillor Michael Banasik said.

"Council will use this feedback received at theforum to create a transport document to be used asa tool to lobby for better transport services for ourshire," he said.

4 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

Camden CouncilRound up ...As observed by Michael Rees.

Platypus makes an appearanceLast Tuesday night's council meeting got off to an unusual start to say theleast. When I got there I was greeted by a very large platypus - councillorDavid Funnell was trying to make a point that for around a $280 hiring fee -this type of costume, although ill-fitting, is very affordable as opposed to anyother suggestions. It was the latest episode in the mascot saga. I couldn't helpfeeling that if Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck had been available; we could havemade a 'Looney Tunes' cartoon. Maybe all this kidding around is just a coverfor some other political agenda.

Decision won factsThe Muslim School got a mention along with the legal cost of $150,000,which in this day and age does not seem to be an excessive amount for a mat-ter which has been going on for 18 months. Cr Fred Anderson said he felt thatthe council won the case by the "skin of our teeth" with Commissioner Browndismissing the bulk of the 3000 complaints that came to council. He went onto say that this shows that we have a deeply divided community. How couldhe come to these conclusions? I didn't see him at the court whenCommissioner Brown delivered his judgment. Mr Brown may have chosennot to take into account some of the written submissions, but he knocked backthe entire case for the school.

Signs to Oran ParkProgress is just around the corner with the council approving the constructionof an entry sign to the Oran Park Town development site on The NorthernRoad. Cr Greg Warren said that when this sign goes up it will be showing theway to the future.

Overhauling the pool act The council is going to undertake a review of the Swimming Pool Act. Thisoverhaul will mean looking at the removal of existing exemptions for barri-ers, introduction of mandatory inspection of pools, require all councils to keepa pool register, increasing penalties for non-compliance and giving councilsthe power to undertake remedial work. With swimming pool drowning oneof the major causes of infant deaths all the punters should get right behind thecouncil and help to save the ankle biters from these tragic preventable acci-dents.

Extra community assistance

The council also adopted the Department of Community Services and theDepartment of Ageing, Disability and Home Care annual funding agreementsto support part time project officers to help the kids and oldies in the LGA.

That's all folks!

Continued from page 1 .....

He knows of some councils,which have had to resort to such asolution.

"There's a very small bad elementout there. Some of the options we arelooking at include increasing lightingin the area.

"We are doing our best to stay ontop of vandalism but we are fightinga losing battle. "We need the help ofthe residents of Wollondilly. As resi-

dents we can report any relevantinformation to the police and hope-fully as a community can worktowards keeping our parks and gar-dens beautiful for us and our kids."

"We want people to dob in thesevandals," Cr Banasik said.

It costs Wollondilly rate payersup to $50,000 per year for repairingvandalised equipment and this does-n't include the cost of staff removinggraffiti or replacing signs. Indecentor offensive graffiti is removed assoon as the council is alerted.

Left: Ship wrecked: After the attack on the playground equipment.

Children’s pirateship wrecked

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 5

Harry remains true to his jobHarry Warner could be setting a record- he has already notched up 50 years inthe same job and doesn't look like hewill be slowing down anytime soon.

The Camden Park employee, whoalso celebrated his 65th birthday lastweek, will probably be at work longafter Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd'snew retirement age of 67 kicks in.

Mr Warner, started work at 14years and nine months after the lateQuentin Stanham found out the young-ster wasn't keen on school.

With Camden High School farbehind him, he worked several jobs onthe huge property and was referred toas "young Harry".

"My father started work at CamdenPark, when I was a child. We used tolive at Belgenny Farm in those days,"Mr Warner said.

He said his father, who was apeanut farm, left Queensland in searchof work and took odd jobs before set-tling at Camden Park.

The family eventually moved tothe property and Harry would alsoeventually marry and settle as hisfather and mother did.

Young Harry worked at differentjobs - from dairying, farming, and gar-dening to driving and workingmachinery including tractors and backhoes.

"I love the country, outdoors, farm-ing and animals," Mr Warner said.

When asked if he ever thought ofanother job, he promptly answered notreally.

"I have been on the land all my life,I don't know anything else.

"I don't think I could have copedwith office work, looking out of the

window and watching the traffic goby."

Mr Warner said each day has beendifferent and challenging in its ownway.

"In the summer I am working theland and in winter making hay."

Working on such a large andfamous property has its perks as MrWarner found out - he can list moviesand television to his resume.

He was child extra when theAustralian movie 'Smiley' was beingfilmed at Belgenny Farm. Then therewas the time he was on the six o'clocknews when the new silo was built atCamden Park.

When it's not work, Mr Warnerenjoys riding his motorcycle and tour-ing with the Ulysses group or helpingout at the Rural Fire Services atMenangle.

Mr Warner and his wife Franceshave raised three children at CamdenPark.

"They have all done well. They allwent to Camden High and are allemployed in good jobs."

Mr Warner and his wife were look-ing at eventually moving to the coastwhen the time came for him to retire.

But his employer had other ideasand has rewarded Mr Warner for hiswork and commitment.

"John Stanham [Quentin Stanham'sson] and his family asked us to contin-ue to live at Camden Park and provid-ed us with a home.

"The people I am working for aregreat. They looked after my mum anddad and now they are looking afterme."

50 years and still lots to go - Harry ready for another day's work at Camden Park with hisJack Russell - Lulu-Liz, who is always by his side on the job

6 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

By Michael Rees

'On not knowing what to do' by J.K.Broodle is a different slant on the mod-ern curse of stress. The author is not adoctor or medical profession, but is aperson who has had problems in hisown life and tells of how he got overthese big hurdles and recovered.

He was raised by his mother afterhis father shot through and lived withhis grandparents. His grandfather wasa bloke who propped himself up withalcohol and then on occasions took hisfrustrations out on his five kids and hisgrandchildren.

On reaching adulthood the authormarried and three children came along.But as the years went on the marriagedissolved and he lost contact with hischildren.

The downward spiral continuedthrough alcohol and drug abuse untilthe author decided enough was enoughand sought help.

After much struggle he got back ontrack and started helping people whohad gone down the same path. Theseexperiences are the backbone of thebook.

He lays the groundwork bydescribing the body's reaction to phys-ical dangers as the "Guardians". Hepoints out that these reactions are auto-matic and we have very little con-scious control over them. He calls itdistress. But when the danger goesaway and our bodies return to normalour imaginations can kick in and con-juror up dangers that aren't there. Thiscauses our "Guardians" to loose theirway and we end up with ongoingstress.

Time is also identified as a culpritand is described as a bridge being thepresent, upstream the future and downstream the past. The conclusion isdrawn that if we stay on the bridge wecan control stress.

The book provides anecdotes andhypothetical situations to illustratepoints. It is a different approach to theold problem of how to control stress inour lives in a simple but effective way.It points out that our imaginationsmaybe public enemy number one inthe fight against stress and depression.

This book is well worth a look atfor anybody who feels that the modernway of living can get a bit too much attimes. It's available at in Camden.

The bridge to mental health(Book review)

Walk for Sarah Get your walking shoes on and Walk for Sarah onJune 21 at Camden Showground. Sarah Hilt fromWerombi, who is a meningococcal disease sur-vivor requires another prosthetic - this time an armwith moveable fingers.

There is still time to register and money raisedwill help Sarah lead a normal life. Last year'sevent raised around $55,000.

"There are two walks; people can take a short-er walk or the optional Hill Challenge," Sarah'sfather Gray Hilt said. "It starts at CamdenShowground at 10am on June 21."

The cost is $20 for adults and $40 for the fam-ily - there's also student and pensioner conces-sions.To find out more call 0404 852 772 or email:sarahhiltfoundation@hotmail.com.

Dare-devil's panoramic photos Adventurous American photographer Melvin

Vaniman scaled multi-story buildings, dangledfrom tall poles and floated in gas-filled balloons tocapture his extraordinary series of black and whitepanoramas of Australia.

Vaniman Panorama, opening at the StateLibrary on June 20, 2009 until late January 2010,presents 12 spectacular aerial views of Sydneyand NSW in 1903 and 1904 displayed just as the'acrobatic photographer' had intended - as enlarge-ments. Born in Illinois, Melvin Vaniman (1866-1912) wore many hats in his rather eccentric life -as an adventurer, opera singer, music teacher, elec-trician, farmer, balloonist and pioneer aeronaut -falling quite by accident into the role of "dare-devil" photographer.

Vaniman shot his images from a range ofunusual vantage points and even built his owncamera which was able to record panoramic viewson film up to two metres in length and 50 cm widein a single shot.

"Even with the advance in technology, 21stcentury photographic panoramas struggle to equalthose taken by Vaniman over 100 years ago," AlanDavies, curator of Photographs, State Library ofNSW said. The exhibition is free. For details call9273 1414 www.sl.nsw.gov.au

What's new in the supernatural? Are you intrigued by the supernatural? Head to

Narellan Library at 6pm, Tuesday, June 23 andhave all your questions answered by DebbieMalone, author of 'Never Alone: A Medium'sJourney'.

Having been highly intuitive since childhood,Debbie Malone received confirmation of her giftafter a miscarriage at the age of 28, when herunique psychic abilities were revealed. She knewthen that her life would never be the same. Thisbook takes readers on the roller-coaster ride ofDebbie's journey from how she dealt will hernewly found gift to how she began using it to helpothers. It also offers insights into the afterlife, asDebbie's several near-death experiences havebrought her into contact with the other side.

Booking are essential and there will be a $6entry fee. Call Narellan Library on 4645 5039 orCamden Library on 4654 7951.

Making facesThe June meeting of the Camden branch of theAustralian Decorative Fine Arts Society will beexploring the art of portraiture. David F. Coke andart historian and curator will be discussing thistopic from his point of view.

The talk explores why artists paint portraits,what they are used for and what they convey. Themany images include everything from theEgyptian mummy portraits to the Identikit. Thetalk is on Saturday, June 27, 4pm at the Undercroft,Camden Civic Centre and entry is $15. For detailscall 4658 0784.

Operatic splendor at St Paul'sOperatic soprano, Amelia Farrugia will be per-forming arias from well known operas at thismonth's musical event at St Paul's Cobbitty.

This is part of the regular fundraising efforts bythe Friends of St Paul's to help restore and main-tain the unique collection of historic buildings inthe village of Cobbitty - these include Heberchapel, the church and the rectory.

The annual concerts are well known for quali-ty and the setting in the church is an ideal backdropfor an afternoon of fine music. There is limitedseating so hurry and book for the June 28 perform-ance at 2.30pm at St Paul's Cobbitty. Call JamesWarrand on 0412 667 621 for ticket details.

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 7

Talking Money

Commenting on last week's financial data, BrianThomas of Perennial Partners observes: What theGDP Number Really Means:

"With many waiting to hear whether GDP growthfor the first quarter of 2009 was negative, pushingAustralia "officially" into recession? Well, yesterdayit was announced that GDP was up 0.4% for the firstquarter of 2009, after a fall of 0.6% in the Decemberquarter. Does that mean Australia has averted a reces-sion? Based on the technical definition that two con-secutive quarters of falling GDP makes a recession,yes Australia has avoided recession, for now."

On what are the key points that investors need toknow about he says: \

"Let's face it, a more sensible look at the numberstells us what we already know; the economy is inrecession;

Domestic demand has fallen 2.3% over the lasttwo quarters and this sits against a 4.1% fall in theOECD area GDP over the same period. Like offshorecountries, the unemployment rate has jumped up, butAustralia has clearly weathered the storm compara-tively better; and

Business investment detracted 1.1% from growth. A thumping 2.2% contribution from net exports

helped get the GDP number into positive territory."What Does this Mean for the Sharemarket? "Previously I have pointed out that historically

equity markets often perform well while the economystays in recession. This time appears to be no differ-ent. Equity markets are forward looking and there aresigns that the interest rate sensitive sectors of theeconomy, like housing, are turning around. TheReserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is ready to step inwith further monetary easing if required."

As for the Future he says: "The overall economic story behind the headline

GDP number is pretty much as expected. Businessinvestment is retreating sharply, the consumer is sub-

dued, the pick up in housing approvals has yet toappear in the GDP data and the public sector isexpected to boost growth, but this hasn't shown up inthe data yet. Remember, it is not over yet. June andSeptember quarter GDP readings could easily be neg-ative before a more sustained recovery late this year."

In regards to leading indicators he observes:"May continued a very important trend around theglobe, with many significant indicators starting totrend up, particularly towards the end of the month,These included:

In the US: The ISM manufacturing index rose to 42.8%; The New Orders Index increased to 51.1%, the

first time above 50% since November 2007 (a read-ing of 50% or greater in these indices indicates anexpansion); and

Consumer confidence rose dramatically to aneight month high (off a very low base).

In China China's official PMI stayed above the 50% markat 53.1%, slightly down from April Retail sales were above expectation This is all great news and the global economy

looks like recovering in the next 12 months.However, investors should remember that these indi-cators are in most cases coming off extremely lowlevels and partly show the normal re-stocking phase,as businesses start to re-build inventories after havingfactored in a very negative sales environment.

The key questions for investors are: What will we see after businesses haverestocked? Will these positive trends continue to improve asquickly over the next few months? With that in mind, markets may need to take a

breath before the next phase of what is hopefully asustainable bull market."

We recommend you consult with a licensed finan-cial planner before acting on any of the above infor-mation.

We thank Perennial Partners for the above article.

John is an authorised representative of ProfessionalInvestment Services AFSL# 234951 Whilst all care istaken in the preparation of this material, no warranty is

given in respect to the information provided andaccordingly no responsibility for errors or omissions,

including responsibility to any person by reason of neg-ligence is accepted.

Recession?by John Jones

The Tax laws Amendment(Education Refund) Bill 2008 appliesfrom July 1, 2008 and permits eligi-ble taxpayers to claim a tax offset forcertain education expenditureincurred in respect of children under-taking primary and secondary schoolstudies.

This is not a tax deduction, it is atax offset. A tax deduction means youdo not pay tax on allowable expendi-ture. By including this expenditure asa deduction on your tax return, youget back the tax paid on that spend atyour marginal rate, be it 15%, 30%etc. A tax offset means you get back100% of what you spend. So at amarginal rate of 30%, a $100.00deduction gives you $30.00 but a taxoffset of $100.00 gives you a refundof $100.00. Now to see if you quali-fy.

In order to qualify for this refunda taxpayer must meet certain criteriaand if that criteria is not met then norefund is available. Broadly speak-ing, the tax offset is available to tax-payers who are entitled to a FamilyTax Benefit (FTB) Part A paymentfrom Centrelink (or certain other pre-scribed payments) and have one ormore children undertaking primaryor secondary studies, or are inde-pendent students receivingallowances such as Austudy, YouthAllowance or payments under theLabour Market Programs. The pay-ment is to the person receiving theFTB, not the spouse.

The schooling requirement isassessed for each half year in the taxyear, ie from July 1 to December31and then again from January 1 to

June 30. Eligible taxpayers are ableto claim a 50% tax offset in respectof eligible education expensesincurred during an income year up to$750.00 for each primary school stu-dent and $1,500 for each secondaryschool student.

This means that if you are eligibleand spend $800 on a primary schoolstudent you can claim half of themaximum $750 which gives you a$375 tax refund. Likewise for a sec-ondary school student if you spend$1,500 you can claim a $750 refund.

The eligible expenditure, forwhich you should keep receiptsincludes: Computers; computer relat-ed equipment; computer software;home internet connection; schooltextbooks and stationery and pre-scribed tools of trade. Also includedis the cost of repair to any of theseitems.

NON ELIGIBLE items areschool fees, school uniforms, tutor-ing costs, sporting equipment, schoolsubject levies or the cost of schoolexcursions. I realize these seem to bethe biggest expense items and this isprobably why the tax office excludedthese items.

One point of note is that if youspend more than the amount, forexample a $2,000 computer for asecondary school student. You canclaim half of $1,500 this year andhalf of the remaining $500 next taxyear. However if the student is inyear 12 and finished school inDecember then the claim is limited tohalf of $750 this year and nothingnext year.

Talking Tax

by Les Coulcher

Theeducationtax refund

Business and Home

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.

8 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

Sport

By Chris Ferry

On an unusually still day at Ocean Park,Woonona, the Camden side were none the lessstill blown off the paddock by a young andenthusiastic Shamrock team that is currentlydragging themselves steadily away from thebottom of the ladder.

Coach Andrew Suffell rued lost opportuni-ties and was at a loss to explain why his usual-ly dynamic backs were unable to penetrate thedefence and his forwards outmatched in everyfacet of the game.

"We were a team that didn't turn up to play,and we were out enthused at the breakdown,"Suffell said.

The Rams continually gave the Shamrocksfield position with poor kicking options andthey were made to pay for their mistakes withtwo tries in each half with one particularlycoach killer late in the first half, when aShamrock back went through untouched from asimple set piece move.

Camden were also ill-disciplined concedingtwo penalties to blow out the final score to 32-5.

Thankfully mid-way throughout the secondperiod after some strong lead up from the for-wards, hooker Andrew Black powered over toget Camden on the board.

Best for Camden in a defeated side were No8 Clint Mclelland, lock Mark Morris and youngprop Ed Whiteman, who weathered a baptismby fire. Camden will be looking for a muchstronger performance next week against astrong Avondale team; otherwise it may be acase of déjà vu.

Reserves thrilling showThe continuing shining lights of the club,reserve grade, put some smiles on the faces ofthe Camden fans in a thrilling try fest 31-27win. From the opening exchanges Camden

appeared dominant and laid on early tries towinger Wade Chandler and lock Mark 'Flo'Nightingale. However lapses in defenceswitched the momentum and kept Shamrocksin the game. Camden appeared to need to con-cede a try to bite back with intent. Centre JohnNettle put Camden ahead again and thingslooked like smooth sailing. Shamrocks scoreagain midway through the second half and thelead was exchanged again. With less than 15minutes to go, Camden trailed 20-19 and con-tinued to thirst for the match winner. No 8 MattSearle sniffed a try and flew onto a short ball tocrash over and take the score to 26-20 after asuccessful conversion from fullback ChrisRavlich and the game looked to be sealed up.Another twist as so often before and theShamrocks snapped up the lead with a runawaytry down the left flank and the clocked lookedto be Camden's enemy. As Camden gained fieldposition through pressure, cool heads prevailedand white line fever was erased for phase foot-ball and Nightingale arm-wrestled his way overfor his second with only a minute to go andensured victory for his team mates. He also gotthe 'best on field' points. Others who impressedwere skipper and scrum half, Matt Dench,Searle, and Nettle.

Third grade's score no pointsIn the first game of the day, Camden wenthome empty handed in third grade, losing 12-0to a top of the table Shamrocks and wereresigned to working harder at training afterconceding their second loss in succession.Camden scrapped throughout the game butcould not consistently retain possession andenforce pressure onto their opposition to comeaway with the points. The first Shamrock trywas scored after a lose chip kick in the defen-sive half and very late in the game Shamrocksscored out wide after some lazy line defenceallowed the Shamrocks to find space. Camden'sfew strong performers were loose forwardsMatt Ravlich, James Gatt and Tas Cranny whoworked tirelessly all day.

Shamrocks power over RamsRUGBY

As we slide into winter as the morningsbecome colder and the evenings chilly,the fishing in mist area has been verygood.

Even though air temperatures beginto drop, surprisingly the water temper-ature still remains steady thanks to theremnants of the east Australian current.

This is a great time of year to headoffshore, with predominant light northwesterly winds in the morning easingto next to nothing in the afternoons.

Yellow fin tuna has been spasmod-ic and you'll get them one day andnothing the next.

However the ones in the know havebeen getting specimens to 25 kilogramin live baits as the fins tend to followsteady berley trails. Browns Mountainshas been one of the better places as itcan provide excellent catches on anygiven day.

The Peak, which is the large under-water mountain approx nine miles offMaroubra has been the hot spot forkingfish to 95 centimetres, they've beentaken on zest pilchard knife jigs around160 grams to 200 grams in weightpending in the current and the mainpinnacle has seen their luck on theseexciting sports fish.

Further south, the snapper havemade a welcome appearance, no doubtchasing the cuttlefish which abound onthe close reefs.

The area between Stanwell Parkand Bellambi has been excellent forfish up to 60cms. The best method hasbeen by drifting Pater Noster rigsarmed with cuttlefish, squid and largepeeled royal red prawns in depths if 37to 45 metres.

Spots which have been firinginclude the new bridge at Coalcliffe,Bellambi Reef and Spinsk Reef and thehighly recommended Rangers Reef.

Closer to home, the HawkesburyRiver has been disappointing andremains a mystery on where the fishhave gone. In Sydney Harbour, trevallyand tailor remain the main stay.They've been boated in good quantitiesfrom the Sow and Pigs and SharkIsland reefs at night.

They're showing a preference forunderweight pilchards. In the upperreaches, the ever reliable Hen andChicken Bay continues to providebream to 41cms to the ever increasingplastic throwers brigade.

Botany Bay has been hard hit by thewesterly influence and does not fishwell during the lead and after the fullmoon. However, trevally alley atMolineaux Point can be relied upon toprovide a feed of blurters. The highlypowered Watts Reef remains the topspot in the bay and if you're prepared tobrave the elements, big bream to 1.5 kgcan be taken at night during the risingtide on live pink nippers.

Georges River continues to be thepremier possie around and will fishwell over the next couple of months.

The writer boated 20 whiting to740gms, two school jenies, two treval-ly and eight bream to 45cms, fishing atnight along Connells Pt cockle bedswith bloodworms providing the spoils.

Fishing classes are held F.O.Cevery Monday evening staring at6.30pm and visitors are most welcome.Call Gabe at the shop on 4647 8755.

Angling for a catch find it …………..

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 9

Sport .... from the sideline by Billy Boots

The Narellan Jets continuedtheir successful season with awin against Picton a fortnightago and backed it up with aclose win against The Oakson Saturday night. This seesthe Jets sit in second spot halfway through the season. TheCamden Rams almost upsetThirlmere but ran out ofsteam with the Roosters scor-ing near fulltime to snatchvictory. Billy is rubbing hishands in anticipation with thereturn clash of Narellan andThirlmere coming up nextSunday at Narellan. WithThirlmere seemingly strug-gling of late with close callsand Narellan unbeaten sincetheir first round clash, theRoosters will be nervous I'mguessing as remainingunbeaten for a season and ahalf is a tall order. I men-tioned it previously that thelonger they remain unbeatenthe closer they get to a loss. Inother games Oakdale defeat-ed Thirlmere 22-14.

The State of Origin wentto the Queenslanders but thenext clash hopefully will havethe Blues debutantes ready toreturn fire after a nervousstart to their campaign. Theblooding of so many newbieswas wrought with danger, butthe biting of the bullet had todone with the future in mindand the start of a Bluesdynasty in the selector'sminds. Once again the refer-ees somehow took the gloryfor all the wrong reasons,with blunders and controver-sial decisions taking the glossoff an exciting start to thethree games.

Once again AFL bad boyBen Cousins has landed him-self in trouble. Billy doesn'tcondone Ben's drug use orraising of the index finger,but the controversy over hislast indiscretion is truly astorm in a media teacup.Most people would have seenhis finger action as a disre-spectful show of his disap-proval of the intrusion intohis personal life. Whether ornot you agree with playersbeing role models or sportsstars etc, Ben was in the pri-vacy of the dressing roomgetting ready for a game. Asmuch as we like the closenessof the inner workings of aprofessional team, in someinstances we get to see toomuch.

The Wests Tigers havegone from bad to worse withanother loss last Friday night.Whilst entertaining to watchwith Benji and Farah jinkingand jiving, the results haven'tbeen as forthcoming as sup-porters would like.

Coach Sheens hasn't pro-duced since 2005, and somestill say that premiership winwas a fluke. Already theknives are being sharpenedwith speculation he could bemoved to make way for newblood and ideas, there aresome whispers he might beheading over to the Roostersand join up with ex TigersCEO, Steve Noyce. Whetheror not the starting playerssupport him remains to beseen, with talk a few of thefringe players aren't happywith their lack of opportunity.

Honing athletes' media skills

Academy Open Netball athletes honing their media skills with Captain Pat (Patrick McGeown) at theCampbelltown radio station.

The South West Sydney Academy ofSport continues to provide qualityskill based training and sports careereducational opportunities to theregion's junior talented athletes.

The academy has recently devel-oped a media partnership withC91.3FM to allow developing ath-letes understand and be able to reactappropriately to the general media,and specifically the media in whatmaybe a stressful sporting situation.

Long term academy supporter andC91.3FM's creative director, PatrickMcGeown, spends many nights withsmall groups of academy athleteshoning their media skills and explain-ing to athletes what the media is look-ing for in an interview, or story, andalso explaining how a radio stationoperates.

Each sport has developed a rangeof quality radio advertisements

including personal endorsements ofthe academy and identifying personalathlete experiences. These advertise-ments highlight three athletes at atime and have been continually airedover the past few months.

"These young athletes are a creditto the academy and the Macarthurregion. It is pleasing to see such fineyoung people who are keen to learnand improve themselves," McGeownsaid.

"Developing media skills is animportant part of an athlete's holisticdevelopment," academy executiveofficer, Gerry Knights said.

"We provide excellence in coach-ing and education in order to enhancetheir development, maximise theirfull potential and provide a pathwaythrough to NSW and National levels,"he said.

"We provide off-season programsthat complement athletes wishing tocompete in their home competitionand we add value to the athlete's cur-rent training and playing schedule.

Academy programs also includehigh level skills and fitness compo-nents, plus a wide range of additionaleducational programs, such as drugsin sport, biomechanical analysis, sportpsychology, motivation, nutrition,strength and conditioning," Knightssaid.

These programs are supported byhighly experienced guest speakersand expert lecturers in their respectivefields and the academy is most grate-ful for the support provided byC91.3FM and its team of communityfocused staff members," Knights said.

For more details on the academygo to swsas.org.au

LEAGUE

By Michael Rees

Last Saturday night saw avery entertaining matchbetween The Oaks (Tigers)and Narellan (Jets) playedout under the lights atNarellan Sport Groundswith the home team scram-bling in with a 38-32 win.

It looked like The Oakswere in for a hard nightwhen they kicked off andput the ball out all the full.Narellan got the penalty,kicked deep into the Tiger'sterritory and before youcould blink they were in fora try with their veteran full-back Jamie Newton racingover. Gavin Wilson kickedthe goal and it was 6 blot.

The crowd had just set-tled down when Narellanwere in again courtesy oftheir flying half back RyanCrocker. Wilson convertedand it was 12 blot.

At this stage the Oakshadn't even worked up asweat but they rolled theirsleeves up and got into andwere rewarded when theirbig centre Jason Keayscrashed over for a good try.

But Narellan came backstrongly through tires toFred Misi and RyanCrocker crossing for hissecond.

The Oaks supporterswere starting think hear wego again, when a loose ballfrom Narellan was snatched

up by replacement playerChas Embrdot who foughthis way over the Jets linecarrying a couple of wouldbe defenders with him. Itwas then game on and thescore board sea-sawed witheach team launchingattacks and counter attacks.

With five minutes to goNarellan lead 34-32 withThe Oaks hammering awayat the try line with an upsetin the wind but Jetsflanker, Ben Baker, pickedup a loose ball and racedthe length of the field toscore in the corner, puttingthe game out of the Tiger'sreach.

There were plenty ofmistakes from both teams

but they provided greatentertainment for their sup-porters.

Narellan were bestserved by their lock for-ward, Brendon Lengholn,front rower, Fred Misi whoscored three tries and halfback Ryan Crocker.

The Oaks centre, JasonKeays was the best playeron the field having a handin most of their attackingraids and providing somegreat defence out wide.

Chas Embrodt alsoplayed a leading hand byscoring the try that got theTigers back into the gameand then scoring in thedying stages giving histeam a sniff of victory.

The Oaks put scare into Narellan

Marking 75 years in the jewellerybusiness in Macarthur - Henningsjust seems to get bigger and betterand with four generations behindthe counter the business is enjoy-ing expanding patronage.

Ernest Hennings opened hisfirst store in 1891 in BathurstStreet, Sydney after serving histime in watchmaking under a strictGerman watchmaker. He altermoved the business to Braidwood,Grafton, the Hunter region andBathurst.

His son William (Bill) wasintent on making his own mark inthe jewellery business just as hisfather Ernest had done years earli-er and who also had a reputation asthe finest watchmaker in Sydney.

"My father Bill was workingwith my grandfather in Cessnockand the suppliers reps used tocome around and visit," PeterHennings said.

"My father said to them that hewas interested in expanding thefamily business and someonementioned that Benny Hodge wasintent on selling."

From that conversation, BillHennings had his sights set onCamden.

"My father saw the town ofCamden as an excellent opportuni-ty," Mr Hennings said.

Bill Hennings and his wifeBeatrice bought the business at thecorner of Hill and Argyle Streets,which was made up of a frontshop, workroom and rear store-room.

The workshop had an openfireplace which was lit in winter asa watchmaker needed warm fin-gers to work on the fine machin-ery.

In 1935 he took over the run-ning of the only jewellery store intown.

On the first day of trade, BillHennings took in one shilling,which he promptly gave to aSalvation Army girl who was col-lecting donations.

Despite the early start, the

business flourished.In those days the big sellers

were alarm clocks and gifts."There were only two places a

husband could buy a gift for hiswife - either from the jewellery orlingerie shops," Peter Henningssaid.

"A lot of dairy farmers neededalarm clocks. General jewellerywas also available as well asengagement and wedding ringsand men's and women's brushsets."

In those days good alarmclocks sold for four and sixpence,pocket watches for eight shillingsand sixpence and quality wristletwatches for 30 shillings.

Diamond rings started fromaround three pounds.

Mr Hennings senior trans-ferred the business to his son

Peter, who was the third genera-tion to carry on in the trade.

Peter and his wife Barbaratook over in 1957 and the businesswas later moved from Hill Streetto its present location in ArgyleStreet.

Peter Hennings would stay upuntil the early hours of the morn-ing building showcases, countersand cabinets which can still beseen today in the Argyle Streetshop.

The store was originally theBruce Brown butcher shop.

"The smell of meat was aroundfor a while," Mr Hennings said.

"The cool room became thestore room."

While he also learnt the craft ofwatchmaking and jewelleryrepairs, when the business beganto flourish, Peter Hennings con-

centrated on the administrationside.

Just like his father, Peter car-ried a similar line of goods, andeventually expanded to trophieswhich were in demand.

"We used to work until theearly hours when the sporting sea-son was nearing its end to engravemany cartons of trophies, silvercups and shields," he said.

The town was steadily growingand so were the tastes of many ofthe consumers.

The mining industry aroundCamden and Wollondilly took offlike a wildfire and it was constantview of coal trucks rumblingthrough the main street.

Watch repairs still accountedfor 30-40 per cent of the business.

"Our customers were mainlyfarmers and miners, who support-

ed Camden from the 1950sonwards," Mr Hennings said.

Barbara Hennings family alsohad a jewellery background; hergrandfather was as silversmith inBirmingham in the UnitedKingdom and had his own assaytrade mark.

While the jewellery businessgrew, so did the Hennings reputa-tion.

Mr Hennings said the jewellerin those days was regraded as abank manager or a professionalperson - "skilled, reputable andtrusted".

"Handmade jewellery hasremained a significant part of ourindustry," he said.

While the Camden storecatered for the locals, people inpast years travelled fromCampbelltown for their jewelleryneeds.

This prompted the family toopen more stores.

The Macarthur Square storenow services and the latest atNarellan.

While Bill Hennings died justshort of his 101 birthday, his fam-ily are indebted to his foresight.

The fourth generation ofHennings is now behind the count-er - and includes Simon, Anastaciaand Natasha.

Just like jewellery designscome in and out of fashion -Hennings Jewellers know it has tokeep up with the trends and itsmove into the Pandora jewelleryline has been a success.

"We have to continually renewourselves and Pandora has been agreat product and allows us tointroduce ourselves to a new mar-ket," Peter Hennings said.

Whether it's the younger or themore discerning buyer, Henningshave something for all tastes andknows that it has the right blend ofexperience and product to suit justabout everyone in the market forfine jewellery.

10 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

Hennings 75th year 75 years of fine jewellery and service

Where it all began on the corner of Hill and Argyle Streets Camden

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 11

in Camden

Hennings Jewellery is the onlylocal outlet which sells the pop-ular Pandora line and this prod-uct only adds to the well knownfamily jeweller's exceptionalreputation as a business of dis-tinction.

This year is the 75th yearsince Hennings Jewellersopened in Camden.

Quality, service and honestyhave been the basis of the busi-ness now being carried on by thefourth generation since openingits door.

Making Macarthur's finestjewellery at very competitiveprices, together with friendlyand personal service has been awinning recipe for the family.

It's the attention to detail thatdraws customers both new and

regulars to the three stores.Attractive stores are located

in Camden, Macarthur Squareand Narellan.

The Narellan store is the newjewel in the crown of theHennings family - a gala open-ing was held recently to mark therelocation of the business to amuch larger and more prominentposition at the Narellan TownCentre.

Whether a customer is look-ing for that special piece of jew-ellery, ring design ideas, remod-elling, fitted wedding rings orjust a wonderful hand madedress ring - Hennings Jewellerswill discuss your needs.

As a member of theShowcase Jewellers Group, thelargest in Australia, buying is

done in bulk allowing customersto reap the rewards.

Hennings' prides itself inmaintaining a high level of cus-tomer service and looks forwardto serving the greater Macarthurwell into the 21st century.

The staff is highly trainedwith excellent product knowl-edge and after sales service.

Hennings is also a strongsupporter of local charities, asso-ciations and agricultural shows,sporting bodies and schools.

Each year the family spon-sors the Camden Show fire-works spectacular, which is thefinale of the two day event andthe most anticipated andwatched highlight of the pro-gram.

Hennings' committed to theclient and the community

The Hennings family at the opening of their Narellan store. L-R: Anastacia, Barbara,Natasha, Peter and Simon Hennings.

Mayor of Camden, Chris Patterson, Barbara & Peter Henning and Michael Mishevski, CEO ofShowcase enjoy a light moment at the opening of their Narellan store.

On Wednesday 29th April 2009 HenningsJewellers officially opened their new look Narellanstore. Those attending included councilors, newand long-standing customers alike.

“It was a terrific night and I was proud to speakat the official opening. I am fortunate to see a lotof Showcase members from towns and cities allover Australia and most certainly Peter and

Barbara Hennings commitment and enthusiasm tothis industry is very well respected” said MichaelMishevski, CEO Showcase

“I would like to thank everyone for attendingon our special night, we have been around foralong time and we remain totally committed andpassionate about our local region” said PeterHennings.

Narellan store opening

12 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

Talking Horses

Vet ChatKeeping pets warm

Macarthur Veterinary HospitalPh: 4655 76646 Ironbark Ave, Camdenwww.macarthurvet.com.au

Dr Steven FergusonHave you noticed that the cold andclammy fingers of winter havestarted to slide under our shirt col-lars? While it's easy for us to throwon an extra jumper or two - for ourpets it's a different story.

So, how do we make pets com-fortable in winter?

Now is a good time to considertaking your pet to your vet for awinter check up. Older dogs andcats are especially prone to theadverse effects of winter.

Arthritis is one of the mostcommon winter conditions to causepets discomfort. In cold weather,many dogs or cats have difficultyrising after snoozing for a while.Some pets are stiff and sore afterexercising and many commonlyhave trouble going up and downstairs. To reduce the effects ofarthritis, keep your pet warm butremember that medications play animportant role in managing arthri-tis.

To keep pets comfortable andwarm at night why not give them ahot water bottle?

Heat pads can be placed in a

pet's basket or bed to provide nighttime warmth. They are commonlyused in our veterinary practices tokeep animals warm after surgery.Ask us to order one in for you.

There are also many styles ofcosy indoor beds available thatyour dog or pussycat can curl upand snuggle into. We know thatmany spoilt pets prefer theirowner's bed!

Of course, you can also giveyour dog the latest in dog coats.Some older pets are quite lean andthey really feel the cold as theyhave no fat layer to act as 'insula-tion'. For them, a dog coat can pro-vide great comfort. A huge range ofdog coats are available, includingwaterproof coats, parkas and thegood old Aussie oilskins.

If your dog sleeps outside thenyou should also have a warm ken-nel for it. A wooden kennel is suit-able but it must have an elevatedfloor to keep your dog off the coldground. Place thick bedding in thekennel for extra warmth.

So while you're warm andtoasty this winter, don't forget yourpets.

Young Claudia Cochrane might have to miss theNSW Equestrian Games scheduled for nextmonth - but she can take comfort in her horse'Patrick' will be soon able to continue in eventingcompetitions, thanks to Cobbitty Vet Hospital.

The 10 year-old horse, who had a splinter fac-ture - a chunk of bone growing on ligaments inhis right leg - was lame before veterinary sur-geon Dr Andrea Bischofberger performed thenow routine operation.

"He'll be able to compete in eventing in abouta month," she said.

Dr Bischofberger, who is from Switzerland,is studying at Cobbitty as part of her ongoingtraining.

She chose the vet hospital because of its spe-ciality in horses and its reputation as a state ofthe art facility - which is quickly gaining worldwide recognition.

Dr Andrew Dart, the hospital's director saidthe facility caters especially for large animalssuch as horses.

Dr Dart said the operation on the eventing

horse was routine, but an important procedurethat guarantees the animal many more years ofcompetition.

For Dr Bischofberger, the bone callous whichwas just smaller than a golf ball, if left untreatedcould have caused the animal considerable painand long lasting damage.

"It's a pretty straightforward procedure andthe outcome is very rewarding," she said.

"I had to chisel out this piece of bone, with-out damaging the ligament, bone or vessels."

The overseas vet is in Australia for the nextfew years and will be specialising in horses -covering every aspect from physiology to its per-formance in sport.

The treatment of the young girl's horsereminded Dr Bischofberger of her own childhoodand her competition riding days.

"Knowing that you have helped a little girl'shorse is a good feeling."

The advances in horse medicine and surgerynow enable owners to have a choice in the treat-ment of their animals - a far cry from the past.

Routine surgerygives 'Patrick' newlease on life

Dr Andrea Bischofberger with patient 10 year-old'Patrick' recovering at Cobbitty Vet Hospital

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 13

Real Estate Report$209,000 Tahmoor2 bedrooms villa with built ins, modernkitchen & bathroom. Air conditioned living,fully enclosed Queensland style sunroom.Automatic garage & garden shed includedL.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$289,000 TahmoorNet & tidy 3 bedroom home, 3-way bathroom,two separate living areas, level low mainte-nance block. No work required. Currentlyreturns $ 230.00 per week.Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$309,000 BargoLevel 1000m2+ block & 20m frontage.Freshly painted 3 bedroom brick veneerhome with built ins. Lounge area with a bar,large kitchen, dining area & single garage.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$323,000 YANDERRAThis 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on1094m2, offers an well-appointed kitchen, Lshape living area, down lights, outdoor spacewith timber deck pergola & detached doublegarage.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$331,000 PictonIdeal for Retirement. Set on low maintenanceblock, 3 bedrooms, dining off kitchen, sep.lounge, new carpet installed, single garagewith internal access.Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$335,000 PictonLess than 300 metres to Town centre. 3 bed-room with built-in's, 3-way bathroom, sepa-rate lounge, dining off kitchen, split air cond,single garage.Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$339,500 WiltonThe perfect location. 3 bedroom all have built-in's, 3-way bathroom with access from main,family room, dining off kitchen, single garagewith internal access, small front verandah.Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$340,000 TahmoorWell presented BV home, features 4 largebedrooms - BIR to main, kitchen, large dining& separate lounge. An enclosed sunroom,

swimming pool, a pergola & 3 bay steel framegarage.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$360,000 PictonCharacter filled 4 bedroom, 2 bathroomhome. Huge living, separate dining & modernGalley kitchen. Front & rear deck. Sideaccess with very large American barnL.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$390,000 PICTON Renovated Edwardian home offers timberfloors, decorative cornices, high ceilings,ornate fireplace, new timber kitchen, federa-tion style bathroom with an claw bath, pergo-la, single garage & storage on 2276m2.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$393,000 BUXTONThis 4.9-acre block secluded & privately posi-tion, backs onto Nattai National Park. It hasphone & 3-phase power connected to frontgate, town water available.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$399,000 Narellan4 Bedrooms, ensuite + study * Huge kitchen& family room * Large lounge, fireplace & air-conditioning * Double garage, covered out-door area, side access.Elders Real Estate Camden 4655 3000

$454,500 Thirlmere5 bedroom split level home set on 3603sqmblock with rural aspect. Large formal & infor-mal living areas, kitchen opens onto largedeck area.Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$469,000 PHEASANTS NEST

5.58 acres with 2-bedroom Colorbonddwelling with open plan living, modernkitchen, SC fire & Undercover entertaining.7m x 7m Colorbond garage. Rinnai instanta-neous HWS & mezzanine storage.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$469,900 Thirlmere1 acre. Backing onto Matthews Creek. 3 bed-room cement rendered home. Brand newkitchen & large games room. Side access,garage, shed. Subdivision potential (subjectto council approval)

L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$476,950 West HoxtonCurrently being used as a display home isthis double storey 4 bedroom home featuringalarm, ducted air con, double garage, quietstreet, only moments to Carnes Hill shoppingcentre.Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067

$549,900 Bargo3.3 acres. Ranchstyle home. Ensuite + largeparents retreat. S/C fire. Split cycle air.Assorted shedding.L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348

$595,000 Theresa Park7.5 acres. all weather driveway leads towhere you can build the home of yourdreams. 4 car garage. water filled dam, pres-tigious homes & tall stands of trees sourroundyou.Dougmal R/E Camden 4655 9888

$649,000 Thirlmere6.23 acres with everything, spacious 4 bed-rooms plus study, large open plan livingareas, wrap around verandah, inground pool,double garage plus workshop and 4 bay farmshed.United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

$699,000 Rossmore5 acres of land located in a quiet street with aoriginal "A" frame house, only moments toWest Hoxton shops, M7 Motorway. Organiseyour inspection today!Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067

$719,000 WiltonOutstanding Rural Acres. 40 Acres of levelrural land 2 minutes out of Wilton Village.Mostely cleared, town water & power. Goodroad frontage.Century 21 Picton 4677 2155

$720,000 BringellyReady, set , build on 5 acres of cleared,vacant land, fenced, approx 71m frontage, notown water, don’t miss out, priced reduced asowner wants to sell!Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067

$769,000 Denham CourtExcellent aspect and almost level fully fencedsought after vacant block. Very few vacantblocks left in this prestigious area so close toall amenities.United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

$789,000 Bringelly5 acres with 2 road frontage, rare opportuni-ty, perfect for dual occupancy, renovated cot-tage with high ceilings, two dams, excellentusable block.United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

$795,000 AustralWhat an opportunity to purchase 3 acres ofvacant land bordering West Hoxton andAustral. This land is ready for you to build thehouse of your dreams (S.T.C.A), this proper-ty has been reduced.Morrison Real Estate Austral 9606 0067

$795,000 Austral3 excellent acres with a spacious & solid 3bedroom full brick home boasting large livingareas, fully equipped eat-in kitchen, 2 bath-rooms, reverse cycle air conditioning,garage/workshop & carport.United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

$1,075,000 AustralWell presented 5 bedroom single level brickhome 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 Park5 acres 2 homes - main house consist of 3double size bedrooms, ensuite & walk in robeto main, beautiful timber kitchen and largelounge and family room. Ducted air, huge tim-ber deck and inground pool.United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

$1,395,000 CobbittyFull brick mansion with granny flat, 5 hugebedrooms with built-ins, huge formal & infor-mal living areas, timber kitchen, 4-6 cargarage with large brick machinery shed withmuch more on high & excellent 5 acres.United Acreage Marketing 4774 8222

District Diary is open to all non-profit commu-nity groups. If you have a community eventthat you would like advertised, drop us a line10 days before the event - either by fax 46553897, email: news@tdr.com.au or send us aletter at The District Reporter, P.O. Box 116,Camden 2570.

Green Thumbs Wollondilly Garden Club ismeeting on June 16 at the Masonic Hall,Colden Street Picton at 10.45am. Guest speak-er will be Heather Prior 'Iris Haven' speakingon Cottage Gardens. Members are remindedthe July meeting will be held at 'Paolos' inPicton and numbers and money are to bebought to June meeting. New members arewelcome.

Camden Auxiliary Camden HospitalAuxiliary meets in the Heritage Auditorium onthe third Wednesday (June 17) of the month at10.30am. New members and visitors welcome.Details Robyn 46472083 or Helen 46559114.

Hospital Awareness Friday June 19 therewill be a Camden Hospital community infor-mation session at Camden Library 10am -12noon. Bradley Warner Operational NurseManager will talk on the In-patient and Out-patient services at Camden Hospital.Information sessions organised by the CamdenHospital Focus Group aim to raise communityawareness of services available at CamdenHospital. Call Ros 4655 3895 or Lorraine4655 4546.

Christmas at Wirrimbirra Christmas inJuly at Wirrimbirra will be on July 4 at 7pm.Experience Christmas in winter in the beautifulbushland surrounds of Wirrimbirra Sanctuary,Remembrance Drive, Bargo (about half-waybetween Tahmoor and Bargo). Cost is just $25per person, and $10 for kids under 13. There'llbe a traditional Christmas dinner, with lots offun and prizes throughout the evening. Thefire will be going, and Santa will be calling in.Bookings are essential as numbers are limited- call 4684 1112.

Pastoral Care Carrington Centennial Care isoffering a free course in Pastoral Care trainingfor people interested in becoming VolunteerPastoral Carers at its Aged Care Facility inCamden. The next course begins on Monday,June 22. If you would like to gain some newskills and make a real difference in the life ofothers please call Donna Barnard (PastoralCare coordinator) for details on 4659 0418 oremail: dbarnard@carringtoncare.com.au.

Sewing Guild Sewing enthusiasts of all lev-els and ages are invited to the AustralianSewing Guild's Camden/Narellan Day Groupmeeting at Harrington Park Community Centrefrom 10am to 3pm on Wednesday, June 24. Fordetails call Mirella 4683 1716.

VIEW Club Wollondilly Evening View Clubwill have councillor Cassandra Twarloh as itsguest speaker on Monday, June 22 at PictonBowling Club at 6.30pm The councillor willbe talking about her vision for the shire. Fordetails call 4677 0329. Camden View Clubwill meet at the Camden RSL Club on MondayJuly 13 at 11.30am for lunch to celebrate its47th Birthday. Guest speaker will be NormStanton, speaking about Missing Persons Newmembers welcome. Please ring Christine46272035 for bookings.

Picton School Fun Day Get along toPicton Public School, 27 Lumsdaine Street,Picton on Sunday, July 5 between 10am and2pm for its annual fun day. There will be lotsof interesting stalls, children's activities, fan-tastic food and check out the entertainment,including pony and carnival rides for the wholefamily. The fun day is the school's majorfundraising event.

Caring Hands Volunteers are needed to pro-vide a little pampering to residents at CamdenHouse through the Red Cross' Caring Hands onProgram by provides hand massages and man-icures. This is a free service to the clients. Noexperience required, full training provided.For more details call Cecilia 9822 2633 or FreeCall 1800 352 220.

Women's Church A church service just forwomen meets every Thursday during theschool term from 9.30am. This term will lookat 'Born to Do', Practical Living from the bookof James, through inspiring talks, vibrantmusic and discussion groups. After the service,there is Cafe 31, for a chance to discuss thetopic of the day in life groups. All welcome.Child minding available. Call 4655 1675 formore details.

Movie Chat Talking Movies meets the firstWednesday afternoon, 1.30pm at theCampbelltown Arts Centre Café, and then thelast Friday evening of the month, 7.15pm at theUniting Church, Allman St. Campbelltown.The group watches a film together on theFriday evening. See website for other details:www.talkingmovies.org or call Paul Mowenon 0415 055 717.

Hone the Tones Are you afraid to speak inpublic - would you like to conquer that fear,painlessly and enjoyably? CamdenToastmasters Club can help you. The groupmeets on the second and fourth Mondays ofeach month at Paling Court in the grounds ofCarrington Retirement Village, WerombiRoad, Grasmere at 7.30pm sharp. The club isvery supportive and friendly. New memberswelcomed. Call George 4655 9622, Michele0417 443 146, Ashlea 4655 3438.

Oaks History Get along to WollondillyHeritage Centre at The Oaks on the firstMonday of very month to hear interestingspeakers on various topics or share in 'showand tell' sessions or heritage films. Time7.30pm with supper provided. For more infor-mation call secretary, Viv Allen 4657 1889 orpresident, Ben Lyon 4681 0472.

Knitters Needed Camden HospitalAuxiliary needs ladies who love to knit babywear especially booties as stocks are runninglow. Wool provided and pick up and deliveryavailable. If you can help call Robyn 46472083.

Fine Yarn Wool 'n' What Spinning Groupmeets in the Uniting Church, Thirlmere WayTahmoor every second Friday 11am-3pm.Beginners very welcome and there is tuitionwithin the group. Call Dianne on 46842086 or0438423168.

Your Move If you have a few hours of freetime and would like to learn or play chess getalong to Wollondilly Library every Mondayand meet like minded people. The Chess Clubmeets every Monday from 10am in the libraryat Picton. To find out more call the library on4677 8300.

Camden Quota Quota International ofCamden welcomes new members interested inactive service club works. Dinner meetings areheld on the second and fourth Wednesday ofthe month at Camden Civic Centre. Call 46571723 for details.

Trefoil Guild Were you ever a member of theGirl Guides? If so, to keep in touch with guid-ing and all that it does for the girls of today,become a Trefoil member. The guild meets atthe Camden Guide Hall, on the fourthThursday of the month at 1pm. Contact Judyon 4655 8792 or Joan on 4646 1041, for moreinformation.

Women's Wellness The WollondillyWomen's Wellness Group meet each Fridayfortnight and on the agenda is friendship, funand learning to maintain active mind body andspirit. Call the Centre for Women's Health on46333 777 or 1800 077 760 for more informa-tion.

Volunteer Companions If you have sometime to spare Narellan CongregationalCommunity Services is looking for volunteerswho can assist the frail aged and disabled in thearea. This might include companionship visits,taking someone shopping or to do the shop-ping, transport is needed to appointments.Training and an orientation will be provided.A companionship visit only takes an hour of avolunteer's time and means a chat and maybeeven a cuppa. Men volunteer visitors especial-ly needed. Call Narellan CongregationalCommunity Services for more details on 46581040.

Spin and Weave Macarthur Spinners andWeavers meet every Friday 9.30am at CWArooms, Cawdor Road, Camden. Beginners aremade very welcome. Contact Raelene on 46512697.

Bagpipes and Drums Have you everthought you might like to play either bagpipesor drums, then the Ingleburn RSL Club andCampbelltown Community Pipes and Drumswants new members experienced or beginners.It is the only Scottish pipe band in theMacarthur area and has band practice onTuesday and Thursday nights at Ingleburn RSLClub, Chester Road, Ingleburn from 7pm CallBeverly on 4655 9407 to find out more.

Healthy Pins 'Steady Legs' exercise classes

for seniors are on Fridays at 10am in theCawdor Church Hall. There is no jumping,many exercises are done while sitting, butsome while standing to improve balance. Thecost is $5. Call Sally on 0418 417 993 for moredetails.

Time for Bridge Macarthur CollegiansBridge Club meets Tuesday, 7.30pm; Thursday10.30am; Saturday 1pm at CampbelltownCatholic Club. Call Tony on 0410 190 573.

Parents Connect The Benevolent Society'sParents Connect provides an opportunity forparents with young children to meet, enjoymorning tea and the company of other parentsand children in a happy and safe environment.Parents Connect is located in Ingleburn,Ambarvale, Mt. Annan and Tahmoor and oper-ates during school terms. For details call46274872.

Pen to Paper The Camden Writers andScribblers meet at the Narellan Library on thefirst and third Tuesday of each month from10am to 12noon. New members are welcomeand there is no age limit. Call Grace on 46556064.

MAG monthly The Macarthur Art Groupmeets every second Tuesday of the month at7pm at the Salvation Army Hall, Supa Centre,Narellan Road, Narellan for discussion, paint-ing, drawing and art demonstrations. TheSketch Group with Figurative, Portraiture &Life Drawing is now held on the last Saturdayof each month at Narellan Library from12noon to 2.30pm. An art demonstration isconducted by MAG members within theLibrary before the Sketch Group meeting.Visitors welcome. Call 4655 7473.

Wollondilly's Over 55 Do you enjoy thecompany of others and are over 55?Wollondilly's Over 55 Social Group is invitingyou to get along to its group - singles and cou-ples welcome. Contact Louisa on 4680 8358or Susan at Community Links Wollondilly4683 3661.

Giving Up Thousands have found the answerin Alcoholics Anonymous. Meetings are heldeach Friday at 8pm in the CWA Rooms, 13Cawdor Street, Camden (behind CamdenCentral, Coles car park, entry off CawdorRoad). Helpline 9799 1199 (24 hours, seven

days). There is also a Wollondilly group whichmeets Wednesdays at 8pm the Shack in thegrounds of the Catholic Church, StratfordStreet, Tahmoor. Contact Ray on 4684 1410 fordetails. These groups are not allied with anysect, denomination, politics, organisation orinstitution.

Hooks and Needles Picton Crochet andKnitting Group meet 10.30am everyWednesday at the Picton Bowling Club. Allages and skill levels welcome. Contact Clarefor more details 0414 799 509.

Heart support Macarthur Heart Supportoffers information, support and encouragementto people with heart conditions and their car-ers. The group meets on the first Tuesday ofthe month at the Campbelltown RSL at 7pmwith guest speakers. Make new friends whounderstand. New members welcomed. Fordetails call Lea (02) 9820 1161, Betty (02)9605 2475, Margaret (02) 4625 7492.

Lifesaving Deposit Liverpool Red CrossDonor Centre has new operating hours toencourage people to make a donation. The cen-tre at 5-6/50 Macquarie Street, Liverpool isopen on these dates: Monday, closed;Tuesday, 10am-7.45pm; Wednesday 8am-4pm;Thursday, 11am- 7.45pm; Friday, 8am - 4pm;Saturday, 8am-4pm; Every alternate Saturdaycall 96124000 for dates and details.

Men's Shed Looking for a new challenge?Men with some free time can join the CamdenMen's Shed which meets 9am Tuesdays at theClubhouse Camden Bicentennial EquestrianPark, enter from Exeter Street. Plenty of fel-lowship through some chit chat and light vol-untary work on the Park. The common themeis about men feeling useful while contributingto the community, making new friends andenjoying a healthy lifestyle. For details callPeter Standen 0417 281 934.

Movie Chat Talking Movies meets the firstWednesday afternoon, 1.30pm at theCampbelltown Arts Centre Café and then thelast Friday evening of the month, 7.15pm at theUniting Church, Allman St. Campbelltown.The group watches a film together on theFriday evening. See website for other details:www.talkingmovies.org or call Paul Mowenon 0415 055 717.

14 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

District Diary

BUCKINGHAM, Allenby 'Peter'11.07.1947 - 03.06.2009

Loving and devoted husband of Karen.Eldest son if Allenby and Kathleen.Brother of Alexis and Paul. Father ofMichael, Anna and Gerard. Grandmotherif Nate, Bea-Jay, Rylan, Kodie and Ruby.

In God's Care

CHANNELL, Mervyn Bruce 'Merv'17.07.1942 - 03.06.2009

Late of Mt Hunter. Husband of Dorothy(Beth). Loving and devoted father andfather-in-law to Stephen and Hayley,Leanne and Darren, Jodie and Steven.Papa to Erin, Shannon and Joshua.Popeye to Nathan, Troy, Alise and Clint.Grandpa to Caitlyn. Brother to Geoffrey,Lance, Lorna, Ian and their families.

Aged 66 yearsWill be sadly missed by all his family and

friends

CUNNINGHAM, (nee Sturits)Irene Edna

03.06.2009, late of Camden SouthCherished wife of George (deceased).Loving mother of Keith and Neale and lov-ing grandmother. To live in the hearts of those we love, is

to never die.

DOYLE, Louis Cronin04.06.2009, late of Pheasants Nest.

Dearly loved husband of Evelyn and muchloved father of Michael, Frances, Timothy,Patricia, Shelagh and Matthew(deceased) and father-in-law of Terry,Anita, Gerard, Stephen and Sandra. Cherished grandfather of Callum, Myles,Marissa, Finnian, Marcus, Ewan, Vincent,Morgan, Leo, Gabriel, Cooper, Lucia,

Lawrence and Macey. Adored brother andbrother-in-law, uncle, great uncle andfriend to many.

Aged 82 years

YOUNG, Anne Mary03.06.2009, late of Tahmoor

Beloved wife if Bruce and dearly lovedmother of Meg, Nicola, Louise, and Tanya.Sister of Edna (deceased) and Ted. FondNan of Melissa and John.

WILLIAM R. GROVES Funeral Directors

Picton 4677-1644 Camden 4655-6433

DEATH NOTICES

CLASSIFIEDSemail: sales@tdr.com.au Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897

FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

BERRIMANS GIFTS we sell a selection ofnew and vintage gifts and home décor.Youcan order a large piece of furniture or pickup a small gift such as soap or chocolate.At Berrimans Gifts you will always get“Much more than you expect” 300cCobbitty Rd, Cobbitty 2570. OpenThursday to Sunday 10am to 4 pm. Ph:0404 574 260

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 15

ACCOUNTANTS

FENCING

Ph: 0403 138 996 Home: (02) 4658 0042

�

�

�

�

�

Rural Stock FencingCattle YardsPost & RailChainwireElegant Entries

Specialising in:MACARTHUR RURAL FENCING

Firewood

$90-

Free deliveryin local area

per cubic metre

AUCTIONS

AUTO PARTS & REPAIRS

CLEANING - CARPET

CLEANING - BLINDS

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

email:sales@tdr.com.au

FENCING

ANTENNAS PLUMBING

ELECTRICIAN

SWIMMING POOLS

FENCING

SCRAP METAL

CARPENTERS

BLINDS & CURTAINS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

LAWN & PASTURE CARE

LAWN MOWING

OFFICE PRODUCTS

PET SERVICES

PET SERVICES

CLEANING - TILES

Ian Willis

n November 1942 an air-craft from 32 squadron atCamden airfield went ona routine mission over the

Pacific Ocean. It was investigatinga sighting of an enemy submarineoff the South Coast. If the crew ofthe Lockheed Hudson bombersighted the enemy they were toattack with their four 250-poundbombs.

While on their return toCamden airfield they got lost.

The aircraft crashed into theescarpment west of Dapto (BongBong Mountain).

The crew of four was killed:Sergeant Norman Clark, pilot; F/Sgt Bernard Hubbard,observer/navigator; Sgt GeoffreyRich, wireless operator/gunner;Sgt Joseph Iredell, wireless opera-tor/gunner.

The Wollongong coroner andeye witnesses stated that there wasa low ceiling of clouds, with occa-sional breaks, intermittent showersand low visibility. On the nightvarious witnesses related how theyheard the aircraft about 9 o'clockflying south over the coast nearWollongong. The aircraft had beenscrambled at 4.45pm fromCamden airfield in the afternoonto investigate the sighting of aJapanese submarine off the SouthCoast.

In a story by CassieMcCullagh in 2004 she stated thatdue to wartime secrecy the detailswere not released to the public andthe 'tragedy became a little-known

footnote in the Australia's WorldWar II history'.

According to the IllawarraHistorical Society BulletinJapanese submarines had beenmenacing the east coast through-out 1942. Seven ships had beensunk including two BHP ships car-rying iron ore.

Just before the crash one wit-ness stated that the aircraft appar-ently made a sharp turn to thenorth, 'possibly after the crew sawthe hill-face loom up in front ofthem', according to McCullagh. Anumber of witnesses recalled forthe coroner how the aircraftslammed into the mountain andexploded on impact.

In 2002 Wollongong residentBrian Tate visited the crash siteand concluded that "you'd walkthrough it and not know you'dbeen there… souvenir-huntershave taken it all away".

There was a good deal of con-troversy surrounding the crash andthere was terse correspondencebetween 32 Squadron and RAAFHeadquarters at Point Piper "aboutthe foolhardiness" of the missionon a stormy night, according toaviation journalist Bob Piper.

This story had been largely for-gotten.

But thanks to the efforts of twomembers of Dapto Rotary Club,Norm Emslie and Alan Langbien,the story has seen the light of day;again. They encouraged the club toerect a memorial plaque at theDapto War Memorial opposite therailway station.

One reason for the loss of this

story would be that the aircraftcrew was not buried with othermembers of 32 Squadron, who hadbeen killed in action while the unitwas stationed at Camden airfield,in Camden War Cemetery.

The aircrew of 32 Squadronhas been remembered on recentAnzac Day memorial serviceswith fly-overs and there have beena number of stories in the localIllawarra press. According toRotary Down Under four streets inWest Dapto have been named after

the aircrew and the Dapto RotaryClub has restored Clark's grave inWollongong Cemetery. There isalso a memorial plaque atLockheed Reserve and a thirdplaque will be placed at the crashsite.

Graeme Iredell, the son of oneof those killed, reminded people inthe Illawarra press in 2004 that thephysical signs of the crash havedisappeared, but "other scars havenot". He recalls that it had a terri-ble impact on his mother. He

maintains that "after a generationor two have gone past theybecome forgotten and lost" and itis important that this does not hap-pen.

Emslie states that "peopleshould be reminded [of the story]because it was just such a terriblewaste".

This is not the only story ofloss suffered by 32 Squadron inthe time it was stationed atCamden airfield in 1942 and 1943.

16 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

Essential Business Solutions

Our professional team can

assist your business with:

�

�

�

�

Bookeeping

Company Accounting

Outsourced Payroll

Virtual Receptionist

Call 02 4622 1339For more information about howEssential Business Solutions can help yourbusiness visit us online at www.ebsoffice.com.au

11

10

01

First consultation and assessment free!

‘Empowering business through outsourced office support’

The Camden Historical Societymeets 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.

I

The routine Pacificmission that went wrong

The plaque at Dapton in memory of those men lost from the 32 Squadron. Photo by S Larson