Vol 12 No 23 P O Box 116 CAMDEN NSW 2570 Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897 editor@tdr.com.
7 editor@tdr.com.au Monday, June 15, 2009
Capturing heritage through a lens
The 2009 Camden Heritage photog-
raphy competition attracted double
the entrants and showcased a variety
of works depicting the hidden treas-
ures of the area - from the famous to
the subtle.
The first competition was held in
2007 as part of the Narellan@180
celebrations, and was only focusing
on heritage in the greater Narellan
area.
The success of that event prompt-
ed organisers to widen the subject
area and matter and by all accounts -
it's gaining popularity among pho-
tography buffs.
Photography is medium that is
often considered the poorer cousin of
other art forms - but in the 21st cen-
tury it is finding a wider audience
and more appreciation.
Pam Browne, one of the organis-
ers of the earlier event was impressed
with the increase in entries and the
variety.
The winners of the 2009 Camden Heritage photography competition are: Patrick Stannard
"I was impressed by the breadth
(Best Narellan Category), Angela Tween (Open Category) Alannah Warn (12-18 years of the subject matter - ranging from
Category), Roslyn Hodgins (Technical Excellence Category), Isaac Percy (Under 12 years built form to intricate architectural
Category). Photo by Olev Muska detail, natural heritage and memora-
bilia.
Children’s pirate ship wrecked
Vandals destroyed a popular play-
ground attraction at Picton Botanical
Garden last week.
Half of the pirate ship play equip-
ment was damaged to the extent that
it had been pulled off and discarded
at the playground site.
It is the latest in a series of attacks
at the garden.
Craig 'Podge' Davies, the park's
foreman, is disgusted by the latest
attack which happened some time on
Wednesday night.
The crew found the half of the
boat ripped off.
"It's very heavy, it must have
taken at least three people to pull it
off," Mr Davies said.
He said the park and the play-
ground is a popular destination for
mothers and their children, walkers
and anyone who enjoys a bit of time
out.
"On Friday, June 5, there was also
Craig 'Podge' Davies, Picton Botanic Garden's foreman with Wollondilly mayor, councillor a lot of damage in the garden - the
Michael Banasik angered by the vandalism at the park bridge and seats were damaged with
"The standard of the under 12s
and 12-18 years was particularly out-
standing."
Ms Browne has her fingers
crossed that the competition will
become an annual event in the local
government area's cultural calendar.
She said the sub-theme for the
2010 competition will be 'Our
Diggers'.
"The organisers wish to thank the
generosity of the competition spon-
sors - the councillors of Camden
Council, Bruce Reilly, Rotary Club
of Narellan, Narellan Town Centre,
Camden Creative Studios, Handprint
Photography and Vale Display
Solutions," Ms Browne added.
Professional photographer, Kylie
Lyons from Narellan said there were
some really "great works" on show.
"Some of the under 12s have
good photographer's eyes," Ms
Lyons said.
She said that a lot of thought and
effort was put in by many of entrants
and they really "looked for the hid-
den treasures".
plants and small trees thrown into the
pond."
It didn't stop there - the vandals
struck again the following day.
"Each time we tidied up the mess,
it's a shame because the garden is
starting to look really nice with all
the plants," Mr Davies said.
He said to fix the boat would
probably cost around $5000.
Wollondilly mayor, councillor
Michael Banasik, is also outraged by
the senseless destruction. He said it
not only costs the council but also the
community.
For the money that will be spent
on repairing the damage, the council
could have built a new playground
within the shire.
While the mayor dismissed any
notion of removing the play equip-
ment, he said it would be a "sad day"
if that had to happen.
..... continued page 4
 Intentional destruction
What goes through the mind of a person who intentionally destroys play-
ground equipment? One has to wonder. The latest vandalism attack at
Picton Botanic Garden saw the popular pirate ship, which was a well used
amusement 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 whoever
did this goes out and brags about their adventure and maybe they will get
what 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 cost
the council and ratepayers but also makes people wary of going into the
park - and takes children's enjoyment. People should be able to feel safe
and visit their local recreational areas - at appropriate times.
In summer, it's a great way to enjoy daylight savings. Wollondilly
Council is now looking at increasing lighting as a first step in ensuring
against other vandalism attacks.
According to the park supervisor, it was the third attack in a week, the
other two times there was damage to the seats and bridge and plants ripped
out and thrown in the pond. Unfortunately the community loses out when
this type of action happens and the workers who put in time and effort to
make the park look attractive also feel hard done by.
In the bigger picture, this incident might be small, but respecting other
people'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 Photography
competition./ Let's hope this event becomes as popular as the Camden Art
Prize. Unfortunately photography as an art form as taken a back seat fro
many years - but with so many budding photographers
out there and advances in technology - there is room in
the local government area for a photography event.
Letters to the editor
Looking closely at spending
Camden Council admits that is has no comprehen-
sive study into what "internal efficiencies" can be
undertaken to avoid taking an extra 12,25 per cent
off ratepayers.
It is absolutely critical that the council openly
publish 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 me
how much extra it spent in 2008/09.
The council's expectation of grabbing more
money of each household and business has no con-
crete basis.
It is simply an attempt to con ratepayers out of
their hard earned money.
Council claims its land (rather our land) in
Smeaton Grange Industrial Estate was valued at
$2.37 million in 2008. It does not mention its
recent purchase of another investment property in
Turner Road.
Council will not disclose how much was paid
for the land. Council refuses to tell its ratepayers
how 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 a
drive-by and see where our hard earned dollars are
going.
Remember the excitement earlier this year
about the proposed P&N soft drink factory to be
built at Smeaton Grange with the potential to pro-
vide many local jobs.
Unfortunately Camden council led P&N down
the garden path encouraging the company to spend
heavily of development costs. The council then at
the last minute informed P&N that the soft drink
facility 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 Grange
without checking out the impacts. This profession-
al failure by the council has cost ratepayers hun-
dreds of hours in useless reports and hundred and
thousands of ratepayer dollars.
It is very clear that we need to look long and
hard at the executive salaries of Camden Council.
Greg Frawley
Curran Hill.

Lee Abrahams, Editor

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.

New Federal Government ministerial reshuffle
Mark Latham's insensitive spray against our servicemen and
women took the edge off an insightful view of Labor's largesse
with taxpayer funds. Joel Fitzgibbon's tenure as Defence
Minister was untenable after his indiscretions with his Chinese
connections.
Our senior strategists in the Defence Department are charged
with assessing threats to our national security and ensuring we
have the proper force structure and resources to meet them. They
have a complex and costly role that includes a high level of risk
for our nation. Kevin Rudd's selection of Senator John Faulkner
as 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 Mark
Latham would have to acknowledge this.
Faulkner will be assisted by Greg Combet as Minister for
Defence Personnel, Material and Science. Although Combet is a
relative newcomer to parliament his previous experience in the
Trade Union Movement indicates that he is well suited for this
job. The professional integrity of our Defence Force Chiefs and
the Secretary of the Department, Nick Warner, are beyond
reproach. Kevin Rudd should be congratulated for ensuring our
Defence Department has the best of his team assigned to this
important role.
Mark Arbib is one of the big winners in the reshuffle. He has
earned his stripes in the role he played in Labor's election to
Government. 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 more
investments from Muslim countries will have raised an eyebrow
or two. There are still many who remember Gough Whitlam's
politically fatal attempt to deal with a Pakistani money lender by
the name of Tirath Khemlani in the early 1970s.
The promotion of Jason Clare to Parliamentary Secretary for
Employment is worth watching. Clare occupies former prime
minister, Paul Keating's old seat of Blaxland and is widely recog-
nised as one of Labor's rising stars. Having recently led a group
of Lebanese Muslims and Cronulla surfies which was organised
by Jason Clare and his Liberal counterpart, Scott Morrison, I can
vouch for his ability.
Kevin Rudd's election and his current standing in the polls
have allowed him a degree of independence from Labor's tribal
factions. His appointments in the reshuffle are based on merit
which is a unique political experience for Labor. To use a Latham
term - they are certainly not factional "meatheads".
2 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
The resignation of the Minister for Defence, Joel Fitzgibbon, has
highlighted the need for politicians to be extremely discrete in the
way 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 to
ask his ally and friend to step down. It is the first blemish to be
recorded 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 contrast
to the early Howard years.
The subsequent reshuffle has allowed the Prime Minister the
opportunity to again reassert his will over his side of parliament
and there are no surprises to see former ACTU Secretary, Greg
Combet and former NSW State Secretary, Mark Arbib promoted to
ministerial positions. They are both loyal to the Prime Minister
and talented.
The shuffle has also resulted in Senator John Faulkner taking
over the Defence portfolio and this is a move which should send
shivers up the spine of a few Defence Department staff that have
not been loyal to the previous minister. While there are a few hon-
ourable hard working staff members within the department, there
will also be some who will regret their recent treacherous behav-
iour which was never in the national interest and only served self
interest. Our soldiers deserve better from its administrative staff
which have performed below par, without distinction.
John Faulkner is a formidable administrator and will continue
the unfinished business of rationalising the department to improve
efficiency. People will recall senate inquiries conducted by John
Faulkner are robust encounters. This minister is intelligent, tough
and incorruptible. He is respected by both his friends and enemies
and he will quickly impose his position on the department.
The Prime Minister's reshuffle showed confidence which is in
stark contrast to his 'fair shake of the sauce bottle' comments last
week. It seems someone is trying to turn the PM into a 'bloke' and
that is something Australians will find hard to swallow. Kevin
Rudd has an unusual manner of speech but, he is a very good com-
municator and his clumsy attempt to use colloquial language is
simply embarrassing.
Pretending to be someone he's not will only confuse voters and
we can only hope that his advisors have already seen the errors of
their ways.
When Australians voted for Kevin07 they wanted a fresh face,
a new start. The economy was already slowing and people were
hurting and Kevin Rudd was able to pick up on those concerns. He
has a wonderful ability understanding people in the street as did
John Howard, but more importantly he has empathy for people and
this is his great strength.
Brian
Stewart
HOW MUCH AM I WILL-
ING TO PAY TO HAVE THE
MONEY I WANT?
Last week's textbook technicality which rescued
Australia's economy from recession didn't suc-
ceed in giving back jobs to the unemployed or
recompensing suffering investors and superan-
nuants: their global economic crisis (and ours)
grinds on.
The strange irony underlying this current
financial hiatus is that its underlying problem
isn't money. Money, after all, is neutral, inert; it's
just another commodity.
What this monetary downturn is really about
are the lengths to which people have gone to get
money, and what they've done with it after
they've obtained it.
The allure of money, and love for it, is
beguiling: "One who thinks money can do
everything is likely to do anything to get it,"
says an ancient Hasidic saying.
Under its narcotic influence, the love of
money blinds us to the true value of personal
relationships and of work, pushing us towards
(or keeping us in!) an unhealthy relationship or
an unsatisfying career.
The love of money morphs ambitious
achievers into workaholics neglectful of family
and friends, or into perpetrators of conduct
which 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 escape
poverty and provide for truly basic necessities.
It's quite another to make money our primary
motivation 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 the
French philosopher, Rousseau. Our challenge is
to put the value of money into perspective.
Do it by answering this question: How much
am I willing to pay to have the money I want?
bstewart@ispdr.net.au
 Court house
opened 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 students
debating the negative - Emily Drescher, Kiernan Seymour and Trisha Glover.
Students from Camden and was staged during Law Week, "This is the first time the
Picton high schools recently saw three students from each of event was run, but it looks like it
exchanged a few words in the the schools battle it out at will become an annual event.
local court house. Camden Court House. "It was really successful with
The Year 10 students debated Camden High debated the a lot of positive feedback from
the hot topic of P-Plate restric- affirmative, while Picton High both students and teachers."
tions with passengers. put up a good case against. Ms Schriever added it was
Melissa Schriever, the clients "The Picton High students also a worthwhile collaboration
services librarian at Picton won the debate," Ms Schriever between the two local govern-
Library, said the event which said. ment area libraries.

Tranpsort issues on the right track

Wollondilly Shire Council's Transport Forum has
been hailed as a success with a full house in atten-
dance all keen to discuss this hot topic.
Many different groups were represented
included the Wollondilly Economic Development
Advisory Group, Wollondilly Seniors Advisory
Group, Disability Access Advisory Committee,
RTA, the Ministry of Transport, Railcorp, local bus
companies, concerned residents, Staff from neigh-
bouring councils also attended including the Mo
fro Wollondilly and NSW Minister, Phil Costa
along with the Shadow Spokesperson for Transport
Gladys 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 works
well in other areas and exploring the possibilities
for future directions.
"The forum was a great success with many dif-
fering groups from the whole South West region. It
was an important Forum for Wollondilly and hope-
fully there will be more to come," Wollondilly
mayor, councillor Michael Banasik said.
"Council will use this feedback received at the
forum to create a transport document to be used as
a tool to lobby for better transport services for our
shire," he said.

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 Camden Council
Round up ...
As observed by Michael Rees.

Platypus makes an appearance

Last Tuesday night's council meeting got off to an unusual start to say the
least. When I got there I was greeted by a very large platypus - councillor
David 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 any
other suggestions. It was the latest episode in the mascot saga. I couldn't help
feeling that if Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck had been available; we could have
made a 'Looney Tunes' cartoon. Maybe all this kidding around is just a cover
for some other political agenda.

Decision won facts

The 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 that
the council won the case by the "skin of our teeth" with Commissioner Brown
dismissing the bulk of the 3000 complaints that came to council. He went on
to say that this shows that we have a deeply divided community. How could
he come to these conclusions? I didn't see him at the court when
Commissioner Brown delivered his judgment. Mr Brown may have chosen
not to take into account some of the written submissions, but he knocked back
the entire case for the school.

Signs to Oran Park

Progress is just around the corner with the council approving the construction
of an entry sign to the Oran Park Town development site on The Northern
Road. Cr Greg Warren said that when this sign goes up it will be showing the
way to the future.

Overhauling the pool act

The council is going to undertake a review of the Swimming Pool Act. This
overhaul will mean looking at the removal of existing exemptions for barri-
ers, introduction of mandatory inspection of pools, require all councils to keep
a pool register, increasing penalties for non-compliance and giving councils
the power to undertake remedial work. With swimming pool drowning one
of the major causes of infant deaths all the punters should get right behind the
council 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 the
Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care annual funding agreements
to support part time project officers to help the kids and oldies in the LGA.

That's all folks!

Children’s pirate
ship wrecked

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

Continued from page 1 ..... dents we can report any relevant

He knows of some councils,
which have had to resort to such a
solution.
"There's a very small bad element
out there. Some of the options we are
looking at include increasing lighting
in the area.
"We are doing our best to stay on
top of vandalism but we are fighting
a losing battle. "We need the help of
the residents of Wollondilly. As resi-
4 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
information to the police and hope-
fully as a community can work
towards keeping our parks and gar-
dens beautiful for us and our kids."
"We want people to dob in these
vandals," Cr Banasik said.
It costs Wollondilly rate payers
up to $50,000 per year for repairing
vandalised equipment and this does-
n't include the cost of staff removing
graffiti or replacing signs. Indecent
or offensive graffiti is removed as
soon as the council is alerted.
 Harry remains true to his job
Harry Warner could be setting a record
- he has already notched up 50 years in
the same job and doesn't look like he
will be slowing down anytime soon.
The Camden Park employee, who
also celebrated his 65th birthday last
week, will probably be at work long
after Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd's
new retirement age of 67 kicks in.
Mr Warner, started work at 14
years and nine months after the late
Quentin Stanham found out the young-
ster wasn't keen on school.
With Camden High School far
behind him, he worked several jobs on
the huge property and was referred to
as "young Harry".
"My father started work at Camden
Park, when I was a child. We used to
live at Belgenny Farm in those days,"
Mr Warner said.
He said his father, who was a
peanut farm, left Queensland in search
of work and took odd jobs before set-
tling at Camden Park.
The family eventually moved to
the property and Harry would also
eventually marry and settle as his
father and mother did.
Young Harry worked at different
jobs - from dairying, farming, and gar-
dening to driving and working
machinery including tractors and back
hoes.
"I love the country, outdoors, farm-
ing and animals," Mr Warner said.
When asked if he ever thought of
another job, he promptly answered not
really.
"I have been on the land all my life,
I don't know anything else.
"I don't think I could have coped
with office work, looking out of the
window and watching the traffic go
by."
Mr Warner said each day has been
different and challenging in its own
way.
"In the summer I am working the
land and in winter making hay."
Working on such a large and
famous property has its perks as Mr
Warner found out - he can list movies
and television to his resume.
He was child extra when the
Australian movie 'Smiley' was being
filmed at Belgenny Farm. Then there
was the time he was on the six o'clock
news when the new silo was built at
Camden Park.
When it's not work, Mr Warner
enjoys riding his motorcycle and tour-
ing with the Ulysses group or helping
out at the Rural Fire Services at
Menangle.
Mr Warner and his wife Frances
have raised three children at Camden
Park.
"They have all done well. They all
went to Camden High and are all
employed in good jobs."
Mr Warner and his wife were look-
ing at eventually moving to the coast
when the time came for him to retire.
But his employer had other ideas
and has rewarded Mr Warner for his
work and commitment.
"John Stanham [Quentin Stanham's
son] 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 are
great. They looked after my mum and 50 years and still lots to go - Harry ready for another day's work at Camden Park with his
dad and now they are looking after Jack Russell - Lulu-Liz, who is always by his side on the job
me."
Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 5
 The bridge to mental health
(Book review)
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 a
doctor or medical profession, but is a
person who has had problems in his
own life and tells of how he got over
these big hurdles and recovered.
He was raised by his mother after
his father shot through and lived with
his grandparents. His grandfather was
a bloke who propped himself up with
alcohol and then on occasions took his
frustrations out on his five kids and his
grandchildren.
On reaching adulthood the author
married and three children came along.
But as the years went on the marriage
dissolved and he lost contact with his
children.
The downward spiral continued
through alcohol and drug abuse until
the author decided enough was enough
and sought help.
After much struggle he got back on
track and started helping people who
had gone down the same path. These
experiences are the backbone of the
book.
6 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
He lays the groundwork by
describing the body's reaction to phys-
ical dangers as the "Guardians". He
points out that these reactions are auto-
matic and we have very little con-
scious control over them. He calls it
distress. But when the danger goes
away and our bodies return to normal
our imaginations can kick in and con-
juror up dangers that aren't there. This
causes our "Guardians" to loose their
way and we end up with ongoing
stress.
Time is also identified as a culprit
and is described as a bridge being the
present, upstream the future and down
stream the past. The conclusion is
drawn that if we stay on the bridge we
can control stress.
The book provides anecdotes and
hypothetical situations to illustrate
points. It is a different approach to the
old problem of how to control stress in
our lives in a simple but effective way.
It points out that our imaginations
maybe public enemy number one in
the fight against stress and depression.
This book is well worth a look at
for anybody who feels that the modern
way of living can get a bit too much at
times. It's available at in Camden.
Walk for Sarah
Get your walking shoes on and Walk for Sarah on
June 21 at Camden Showground. Sarah Hilt from
Werombi, who is a meningococcal disease sur-
vivor requires another prosthetic - this time an arm
with moveable fingers.
There is still time to register and money raised
will help Sarah lead a normal life. Last year's
event raised around $55,000.
"There are two walks; people can take a short-
er walk or the optional Hill Challenge," Sarah's
father Gray Hilt said. "It starts at Camden
Showground 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, dangled
from tall poles and floated in gas-filled balloons to
capture his extraordinary series of black and white
panoramas of Australia.
Vaniman Panorama, opening at the State
Library on June 20, 2009 until late January 2010,
presents 12 spectacular aerial views of Sydney
and 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 of
unusual vantage points and even built his own
camera which was able to record panoramic views
on film up to two metres in length and 50 cm wide
in a single shot.
"Even with the advance in technology, 21st
century photographic panoramas struggle to equal
those taken by Vaniman over 100 years ago," Alan
Davies, curator of Photographs, State Library of
NSW said. The exhibition is free. For details call
9273 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 and
have all your questions answered by Debbie
Malone, author of 'Never Alone: A Medium's
Journey'.
Having been highly intuitive since childhood,
Debbie Malone received confirmation of her gift
after a miscarriage at the age of 28, when her
unique psychic abilities were revealed. She knew
then that her life would never be the same. This
book takes readers on the roller-coaster ride of
Debbie's journey from how she dealt will her
newly found gift to how she began using it to help
others. It also offers insights into the afterlife, as
Debbie's several near-death experiences have
brought her into contact with the other side.
Booking are essential and there will be a $6
entry fee. Call Narellan Library on 4645 5039 or
Camden Library on 4654 7951.
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 per-
forming 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 main-
tain 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 quali-
ty 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 perform-
ance at 2.30pm at St Paul's Cobbitty. Call James
Warrand on 0412 667 621 for ticket details.

Business and Home
The
education
tax refund
by Les Coulcher
The Tax laws Amendment
(Education Refund) Bill 2008 applies
from July 1, 2008 and permits eligi-
ble taxpayers to claim a tax offset for
certain education expenditure
incurred in respect of children under-
taking primary and secondary school
studies.
This is not a tax deduction, it is a
tax offset. A tax deduction means you
do not pay tax on allowable expendi-
ture. By including this expenditure as
a deduction on your tax return, you
get back the tax paid on that spend at
your marginal rate, be it 15%, 30%
etc. A tax offset means you get back
100% of what you spend. So at a
marginal rate of 30%, a $100.00
deduction gives you $30.00 but a tax
offset of $100.00 gives you a refund
of $100.00. Now to see if you quali-
fy.
In order to qualify for this refund
a taxpayer must meet certain criteria
and if that criteria is not met then no
refund is available. Broadly speak-
ing, the tax offset is available to tax-
payers who are entitled to a Family
Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A payment
from Centrelink (or certain other pre-
scribed payments) and have one or
more children undertaking primary
or secondary studies, or are inde-
pendent students receiving
allowances such as Austudy, Youth
Allowance or payments under the
Labour Market Programs. The pay-
ment is to the person receiving the
FTB, not the spouse.
The schooling requirement is
assessed for each half year in the tax
year, ie from July 1 to December
31and then again from January 1 to
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.
Talking Tax
June 30. Eligible taxpayers are able
to claim a 50% tax offset in respect
of eligible education expenses
incurred during an income year up to
$750.00 for each primary school stu-
dent and $1,500 for each secondary
school student.
This means that if you are eligible
and spend $800 on a primary school
student you can claim half of the
maximum $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, for
which you should keep receipts
includes: Computers; computer relat-
ed equipment; computer software;
home internet connection; school
textbooks and stationery and pre-
scribed tools of trade. Also included
is the cost of repair to any of these
items.
NON ELIGIBLE items are
school fees, school uniforms, tutor-
ing costs, sporting equipment, school
subject levies or the cost of school
excursions. I realize these seem to be
the biggest expense items and this is
probably why the tax office excluded
these items.
One point of note is that if you
spend more than the amount, for
example a $2,000 computer for a
secondary school student. You can
claim half of $1,500 this year and
half of the remaining $500 next tax
year. However if the student is in
year 12 and finished school in
December then the claim is limited to
half of $750 this year and nothing
next year.
Recession?
Commenting on last week's financial data, Brian
Thomas of Perennial Partners observes: What the
GDP Number Really Means:
"With many waiting to hear whether GDP growth
for the first quarter of 2009 was negative, pushing
Australia "officially" into recession? Well, yesterday
it was announced that GDP was up 0.4% for the first
quarter of 2009, after a fall of 0.6% in the December
quarter. 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 to
know about he says: \
"Let's face it, a more sensible look at the numbers
tells us what we already know; the economy is in
recession;
Domestic demand has fallen 2.3% over the last
two quarters and this sits against a 4.1% fall in the
OECD area GDP over the same period. Like offshore
countries, the unemployment rate has jumped up, but
Australia 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 economy
stays in recession. This time appears to be no differ-
ent. Equity markets are forward looking and there are
signs that the interest rate sensitive sectors of the
economy, like housing, are turning around. The
Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is ready to step in
with 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. Business
investment is retreating sharply, the consumer is sub-
Talking Money
by John Jones
dued, the pick up in housing approvals has yet to
appear in the GDP data and the public sector is
expected to boost growth, but this hasn't shown up in
the data yet. Remember, it is not over yet. June and
September 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 the
globe, with many significant indicators starting to
trend 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 an
expansion); and
Consumer confidence rose dramatically to an
eight month high (off a very low base).
In China
z China's official PMI stayed above the 50% mark
at 53.1%, slightly down from April
z 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 low
levels and partly show the normal re-stocking phase,
as businesses start to re-build inventories after having
factored in a very negative sales environment.
The key questions for investors are:
z What will we see after businesses have
restocked?
z Will these positive trends continue to improve as
quickly over the next few months?
With that in mind, markets may need to take a
breath before the next phase of what is hopefully a
sustainable 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 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 neg-
ligence is accepted.
Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 7
Sport
Angling for
a catch find it …………..
As we slide into winter as the mornings
become colder and the evenings chilly,
the fishing in mist area has been very
good.
Even though air temperatures begin
to drop, surprisingly the water temper-
ature still remains steady thanks to the
remnants of the east Australian current.
This is a great time of year to head
offshore, with predominant light north
westerly winds in the morning easing
to next to nothing in the afternoons.
Yellow fin tuna has been spasmod-
ic and you'll get them one day and
nothing the next.
However the ones in the know have
been getting specimens to 25 kilogram
in live baits as the fins tend to follow
steady berley trails. Browns Mountains
has been one of the better places as it
can provide excellent catches on any
given day.
The Peak, which is the large under-
water mountain approx nine miles off
Maroubra has been the hot spot for
kingfish to 95 centimetres, they've been
taken on zest pilchard knife jigs around
160 grams to 200 grams in weight
pending in the current and the main
pinnacle has seen their luck on these
exciting sports fish.
Further south, the snapper have
made a welcome appearance, no doubt
chasing the cuttlefish which abound on
the close reefs.
The area between Stanwell Park
and Bellambi has been excellent for
fish up to 60cms. The best method has
been by drifting Pater Noster rigs
armed with cuttlefish, squid and large
peeled royal red prawns in depths if 37
to 45 metres.
8 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
Spots which have been firing
include the new bridge at Coalcliffe,
Bellambi Reef and Spinsk Reef and the
highly recommended Rangers Reef.
Closer to home, the Hawkesbury
River has been disappointing and
remains a mystery on where the fish
have gone. In Sydney Harbour, trevally
and tailor remain the main stay.
They've been boated in good quantities
from the Sow and Pigs and Shark
Island reefs at night.
They're showing a preference for
underweight pilchards. In the upper
reaches, the ever reliable Hen and
Chicken Bay continues to provide
bream to 41cms to the ever increasing
plastic throwers brigade.
Botany Bay has been hard hit by the
westerly influence and does not fish
well during the lead and after the full
moon. However, trevally alley at
Molineaux Point can be relied upon to
provide a feed of blurters. The highly
powered Watts Reef remains the top
spot in the bay and if you're prepared to
brave the elements, big bream to 1.5 kg
can be taken at night during the rising
tide on live pink nippers.
Georges River continues to be the
premier possie around and will fish
well over the next couple of months.
The writer boated 20 whiting to
740gms, two school jenies, two treval-
ly and eight bream to 45cms, fishing at
night along Connells Pt cockle beds
with bloodworms providing the spoils.
Fishing classes are held F.O.C
every Monday evening staring at
6.30pm and visitors are most welcome.
Call Gabe at the shop on 4647 8755.
RUGBY
Shamrocks power over Rams
By Chris Ferry
On an unusually still day at Ocean Park,
Woonona, the Camden side were none the less
still blown off the paddock by a young and
enthusiastic Shamrock team that is currently
dragging themselves steadily away from the
bottom 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 the
defence and his forwards outmatched in every
facet 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 Shamrocks
field position with poor kicking options and
they were made to pay for their mistakes with
two tries in each half with one particularly
coach killer late in the first half, when a
Shamrock back went through untouched from a
simple set piece move.
Camden were also ill-disciplined conceding
two penalties to blow out the final score to 32-
5.
Thankfully mid-way throughout the second
period after some strong lead up from the for-
wards, hooker Andrew Black powered over to
get Camden on the board.
Best for Camden in a defeated side were No
8 Clint Mclelland, lock Mark Morris and young
prop Ed Whiteman, who weathered a baptism
by fire. Camden will be looking for a much
stronger performance next week against a
strong Avondale team; otherwise it may be a
case of déjà vu.
Reserves thrilling show
The continuing shining lights of the club,
reserve grade, put some smiles on the faces of
the Camden fans in a thrilling try fest 31-27
win. From the opening exchanges Camden
appeared dominant and laid on early tries to
winger Wade Chandler and lock Mark 'Flo'
Nightingale. However lapses in defence
switched the momentum and kept Shamrocks
in the game. Camden appeared to need to con-
cede a try to bite back with intent. Centre John
Nettle put Camden ahead again and things
looked like smooth sailing. Shamrocks score
again midway through the second half and the
lead was exchanged again. With less than 15
minutes to go, Camden trailed 20-19 and con-
tinued to thirst for the match winner. No 8 Matt
Searle sniffed a try and flew onto a short ball to
crash over and take the score to 26-20 after a
successful conversion from fullback Chris
Ravlich and the game looked to be sealed up.
Another twist as so often before and the
Shamrocks snapped up the lead with a runaway
try down the left flank and the clocked looked
to be Camden's enemy. As Camden gained field
position through pressure, cool heads prevailed
and white line fever was erased for phase foot-
ball and Nightingale arm-wrestled his way over
for his second with only a minute to go and
ensured victory for his team mates. He also got
the 'best on field' points. Others who impressed
were skipper and scrum half, Matt Dench,
Searle, and Nettle.
Third grade's score no points
In the first game of the day, Camden went
home empty handed in third grade, losing 12-0
to a top of the table Shamrocks and were
resigned to working harder at training after
conceding their second loss in succession.
Camden scrapped throughout the game but
could not consistently retain possession and
enforce pressure onto their opposition to come
away with the points. The first Shamrock try
was scored after a lose chip kick in the defen-
sive half and very late in the game Shamrocks
scored out wide after some lazy line defence
allowed the Shamrocks to find space. Camden's
few strong performers were loose forwards
Matt Ravlich, James Gatt and Tas Cranny who
worked tirelessly all day.

LEAGUE
The Oaks put scare into Narellan
By Michael Rees
Last Saturday night saw a
very entertaining match
between The Oaks (Tigers)
and Narellan (Jets) played
out under the lights at
Narellan Sport Grounds
with the home team scram-
bling in with a 38-32 win.
It looked like The Oaks
were in for a hard night
when they kicked off and
put the ball out all the full.
Narellan got the penalty,
kicked deep into the Tiger's
territory and before you
could blink they were in for
a try with their veteran full-
back Jamie Newton racing
over. Gavin Wilson kicked
the goal and it was 6 blot.
The crowd had just set-
tled down when Narellan
were in again courtesy of
their flying half back Ryan
Crocker. Wilson converted
and it was 12 blot.
At this stage the Oaks
hadn't even worked up a
sweat but they rolled their
sleeves up and got into and
were rewarded when their
big centre Jason Keays
crashed over for a good try.
But Narellan came back
strongly through tires to
Fred Misi and Ryan
Crocker crossing for his
second.
The Oaks supporters
were starting think hear we
go again, when a loose ball
from Narellan was snatched
up by replacement player
Chas Embrdot who fought
his way over the Jets line
carrying a couple of would
be defenders with him. It
was then game on and the
score board sea-sawed with
each team launching
attacks and counter attacks.
With five minutes to go
Narellan lead 34-32 with
The Oaks hammering away
at the try line with an upset
in the wind but Jets
flanker, Ben Baker, picked
up a loose ball and raced
the length of the field to
score in the corner, putting
the game out of the Tiger's
reach.
There were plenty of
mistakes from both teams
but they provided great
entertainment for their sup-
porters.
Narellan were best
served by their lock for-
ward, Brendon Lengholn,
front rower, Fred Misi who
scored three tries and half
back Ryan Crocker.
The Oaks centre, Jason
Keays was the best player
on the field having a hand
in most of their attacking
raids and providing some
great defence out wide.
Chas Embrodt also
played a leading hand by
scoring the try that got the
Tigers back into the game
and then scoring in the
dying stages giving his
team a sniff of victory.
Sport
.... from the sideline by Billy Boots
The Narellan Jets continued
their successful season with a
win against Picton a fortnight
ago and backed it up with a
close win against The Oaks
on Saturday night. This sees
the Jets sit in second spot half
way through the season. The
Camden Rams almost upset
Thirlmere but ran out of
steam with the Roosters scor-
ing near fulltime to snatch
victory. Billy is rubbing his
hands in anticipation with the
return clash of Narellan and
Thirlmere coming up next
Sunday at Narellan. With
Thirlmere seemingly strug-
gling of late with close calls
and Narellan unbeaten since
their first round clash, the
Roosters will be nervous I'm
guessing as remaining
unbeaten for a season and a
half is a tall order. I men-
tioned it previously that the
longer they remain unbeaten
The Wests Tigers have
gone from bad to worse with
another loss last Friday night.
Whilst entertaining to watch
with Benji and Farah jinking
and jiving, the results haven't
been as forthcoming as sup-
porters would like.
Coach Sheens hasn't pro-
duced since 2005, and some
still say that premiership win
was a fluke. Already the
knives are being sharpened
with speculation he could be
moved to make way for new
blood and ideas, there are
some whispers he might be
heading over to the Roosters
and join up with ex Tigers
CEO, Steve Noyce. Whether
or not the starting players
support him remains to be
seen, with talk a few of the
fringe players aren't happy
with their lack of opportunity.

Honing athletes' media skills the closer they get to a loss. In

Academy Open Netball athletes honing their media skills with Captain Pat (Patrick McGeown) at the
Campbelltown radio station.
The South West Sydney Academy of
Sport continues to provide quality
skill based training and sports career
educational opportunities to the
region's junior talented athletes.
The academy has recently devel-
oped a media partnership with
C91.3FM to allow developing ath-
letes understand and be able to react
appropriately to the general media,
and specifically the media in what
maybe a stressful sporting situation.
Long term academy supporter and
C91.3FM's creative director, Patrick
McGeown, spends many nights with
small groups of academy athletes
honing their media skills and explain-
ing to athletes what the media is look-
ing for in an interview, or story, and
also explaining how a radio station
operates.
Each sport has developed a range
of quality radio advertisements
including personal endorsements of
the academy and identifying personal
athlete experiences. These advertise-
ments highlight three athletes at a
time and have been continually aired
over the past few months.
"These young athletes are a credit
to the academy and the Macarthur
region. It is pleasing to see such fine
young people who are keen to learn
and improve themselves," McGeown
said.
"Developing media skills is an
important part of an athlete's holistic
development," academy executive
officer, Gerry Knights said.
"We provide excellence in coach-
ing and education in order to enhance
their development, maximise their
full potential and provide a pathway
through to NSW and National levels,"
he said.
"We provide off-season programs
that complement athletes wishing to
compete in their home competition
and we add value to the athlete's cur-
rent training and playing schedule.
Academy programs also include
high level skills and fitness compo-
nents, plus a wide range of additional
educational programs, such as drugs
in sport, biomechanical analysis, sport
psychology, motivation, nutrition,
strength and conditioning," Knights
said.
These programs are supported by
highly experienced guest speakers
and expert lecturers in their respective
fields and the academy is most grate-
ful for the support provided by
C91.3FM and its team of community
focused staff members," Knights said.
For more details on the academy
go to swsas.org.au
other games Oakdale defeat-
ed Thirlmere 22-14.
The State of Origin went
to the Queenslanders but the
next clash hopefully will have
the Blues debutantes ready to
return fire after a nervous
start to their campaign. The
blooding of so many newbies
was wrought with danger, but
the biting of the bullet had to
done with the future in mind
and the start of a Blues
dynasty in the selector's
minds. Once again the refer-
ees somehow took the glory
for all the wrong reasons,
with blunders and controver-
sial decisions taking the gloss
off an exciting start to the
three games.
Once again AFL bad boy
Ben Cousins has landed him-
self in trouble. Billy doesn't
condone Ben's drug use or
raising of the index finger,
but the controversy over his
last indiscretion is truly a
storm in a media teacup.
Most people would have seen
his finger action as a disre-
spectful show of his disap-
proval of the intrusion into
his personal life. Whether or
not you agree with players
being role models or sports
stars etc, Ben was in the pri-
vacy of the dressing room
getting ready for a game. As
much as we like the closeness
of the inner workings of a
professional team, in some
instances we get to see too
much.

Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 9

 Hennings 75th year
75 years of fine jewellery and service
Marking 75 years in the jewellery
business in Macarthur - Hennings
just seems to get bigger and better
and with four generations behind
the counter the business is enjoy-
ing expanding patronage.
Ernest Hennings opened his
first store in 1891 in Bathurst
Street, Sydney after serving his
time in watchmaking under a strict
German watchmaker. He alter
moved the business to Braidwood,
Grafton, the Hunter region and
Bathurst.
His son William (Bill) was
intent on making his own mark in
the jewellery business just as his
father Ernest had done years earli-
er and who also had a reputation as
the finest watchmaker in Sydney.
"My father Bill was working
with my grandfather in Cessnock
and the suppliers reps used to
come around and visit," Peter
Hennings said.
"My father said to them that he
was interested in expanding the
family business and someone
mentioned that Benny Hodge was
intent on selling."
From that conversation, Bill
Hennings had his sights set on
Camden.
"My father saw the town of
Camden as an excellent opportuni-
ty," Mr Hennings said.
Bill Hennings and his wife
Beatrice bought the business at the
corner of Hill and Argyle Streets,
which was made up of a front
shop, workroom and rear store-
room.
The workshop had an open
fireplace which was lit in winter as
a 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 in
town.
On the first day of trade, Bill
Hennings took in one shilling,
which he promptly gave to a
Salvation Army girl who was col-
lecting donations.
Despite the early start, the
10 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
Where it all began on the corner of Hill and Argyle Streets Camden
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 his
wife - either from the jewellery or
lingerie shops," Peter Hennings
said.
"A lot of dairy farmers needed
alarm clocks. General jewellery
was also available as well as
engagement and wedding rings
and men's and women's brush
sets."
In those days good alarm
clocks sold for four and sixpence,
pocket watches for eight shillings
and sixpence and quality wristlet
watches for 30 shillings.
Diamond rings started from
around 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 Barbara
took over in 1957 and the business
was later moved from Hill Street
to its present location in Argyle
Street.
Peter Hennings would stay up
until the early hours of the morn-
ing building showcases, counters
and cabinets which can still be
seen today in the Argyle Street
shop.
The store was originally the
Bruce Brown butcher shop.
"The smell of meat was around
for a while," Mr Hennings said.
"The cool room became the
store room."
While he also learnt the craft of
watchmaking and jewellery
repairs, when the business began
to flourish, Peter Hennings con-
centrated on the administration
side.
Just like his father, Peter car-
ried a similar line of goods, and
eventually expanded to trophies
which were in demand.
"We used to work until the
early hours when the sporting sea-
son was nearing its end to engrave
many cartons of trophies, silver
cups and shields," he said.
The town was steadily growing
and so were the tastes of many of
the consumers.
The mining industry around
Camden and Wollondilly took off
like a wildfire and it was constant
view of coal trucks rumbling
through the main street.
Watch repairs still accounted
for 30-40 per cent of the business.
"Our customers were mainly
farmers and miners, who support-
ed Camden from the 1950s
onwards," Mr Hennings said.
Barbara Hennings family also
had a jewellery background; her
grandfather was as silversmith in
Birmingham in the United
Kingdom and had his own assay
trade mark.
While the jewellery business
grew, so did the Hennings reputa-
tion.
Mr Hennings said the jeweller
in those days was regraded as a
bank manager or a professional
person - "skilled, reputable and
trusted".
"Handmade jewellery has
remained a significant part of our
industry," he said.
While the Camden store
catered for the locals, people in
past years travelled from
Campbelltown for their jewellery
needs.
This prompted the family to
open more stores.
The Macarthur Square store
now services and the latest at
Narellan.
While Bill Hennings died just
short of his 101 birthday, his fam-
ily are indebted to his foresight.
The fourth generation of
Hennings is now behind the count-
er - and includes Simon, Anastacia
and Natasha.
Just like jewellery designs
come in and out of fashion -
Hennings Jewellers know it has to
keep up with the trends and its
move into the Pandora jewellery
line has been a success.
"We have to continually renew
ourselves and Pandora has been a
great product and allows us to
introduce ourselves to a new mar-
ket," Peter Hennings said.
Whether it's the younger or the
more discerning buyer, Hennings
have something for all tastes and
knows that it has the right blend of
experience and product to suit just
about everyone in the market for
fine jewellery.
 in Camden
Hennings' committed to the
client and the community
Hennings Jewellery is the only
local outlet which sells the pop-
ular Pandora line and this prod-
uct only adds to the well known
family jeweller's exceptional
reputation as a business of dis-
tinction.
This year is the 75th year
since Hennings Jewellers
opened in Camden.
Quality, service and honesty
have been the basis of the busi-
ness now being carried on by the
fourth generation since opening
its door.
Making Macarthur's finest
jewellery at very competitive
prices, together with friendly
and personal service has been a
winning recipe for the family.
It's the attention to detail that
draws customers both new and
regulars to the three stores.
Attractive stores are located
in Camden, Macarthur Square
and Narellan.
The Narellan store is the new
jewel in the crown of the
Hennings family - a gala open-
ing was held recently to mark the
relocation of the business to a
much larger and more prominent
position at the Narellan Town
Centre.
Whether a customer is look-
ing for that special piece of jew-
ellery, ring design ideas, remod-
elling, fitted wedding rings or
just a wonderful hand made
dress ring - Hennings Jewellers
will discuss your needs.
As a member of the
Showcase Jewellers Group, the
largest in Australia, buying is
done in bulk allowing customers
to reap the rewards.
Hennings' prides itself in
maintaining a high level of cus-
tomer service and looks forward
to serving the greater Macarthur
well into the 21st century.
The staff is highly trained
with excellent product knowl-
edge and after sales service.
Hennings is also a strong
supporter 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 the
finale of the two day event and
the most anticipated and
watched highlight of the pro-
gram.

Narellan store opening

The Hennings family at the opening of their Narellan store. L-R: Anastacia, Barbara,
Natasha, Peter and Simon Hennings.
On Wednesday 29th April 2009 Hennings Barbara Hennings commitment and enthusiasm to
Jewellers officially opened their new look Narellan this industry is very well respected” said Michael
store. Those attending included councilors, new Mishevski, CEO Showcase
and long-standing customers alike. “I would like to thank everyone for attending
“It was a terrific night and I was proud to speak on our special night, we have been around for
at the official opening. I am fortunate to see a lot along time and we remain totally committed and
of Showcase members from towns and cities all passionate about our local region” said Peter
over Australia and most certainly Peter and Hennings.

Mayor of Camden, Chris Patterson, Barbara & Peter Henning and Michael Mishevski, CEO of
Showcase enjoy a light moment at the opening of their Narellan store.
Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 11
Talking Horses

Routine surgery
gives 'Patrick' new
lease on life
Young Claudia Cochrane might have to miss the
NSW Equestrian Games scheduled for next
month - but she can take comfort in her horse
'Patrick' will be soon able to continue in eventing
competitions, thanks to Cobbitty Vet Hospital.
The 10 year-old horse, who had a splinter fac-
ture - a chunk of bone growing on ligaments in
his right leg - was lame before veterinary sur-
geon Dr Andrea Bischofberger performed the
now routine operation.
"He'll be able to compete in eventing in about
a month," she said.
Dr Bischofberger, who is from Switzerland,
is studying at Cobbitty as part of her ongoing
training.
She chose the vet hospital because of its spe-
ciality in horses and its reputation as a state of
the art facility - which is quickly gaining world
wide recognition.
Dr Andrew Dart, the hospital's director said
the facility caters especially for large animals
such as horses.
Dr Dart said the operation on the eventing
horse was routine, but an important procedure
that guarantees the animal many more years of
competition.
For Dr Bischofberger, the bone callous which
was just smaller than a golf ball, if left untreated
could have caused the animal considerable pain
and long lasting damage.
"It's a pretty straightforward procedure and
the 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 next
few 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 horse
reminded Dr Bischofberger of her own childhood
and her competition riding days.
"Knowing that you have helped a little girl's
horse is a good feeling."
The advances in horse medicine and surgery
now enable owners to have a choice in the treat-
ment of their animals - a far cry from the past.

Dr Andrea Bischofberger with patient 10 year-old

'Patrick' recovering at Cobbitty Vet Hospital

Vet Chat
Keeping pets warm
Dr Steven Ferguson
Have you noticed that the cold and
clammy fingers of winter have
started to slide under our shirt col-
lars? While it's easy for us to throw
on an extra jumper or two - for our
pets it's a different story.
So, how do we make pets com-
fortable in winter?
Now is a good time to consider
taking your pet to your vet for a
winter check up. Older dogs and
cats are especially prone to the
adverse effects of winter.
Arthritis is one of the most
common winter conditions to cause
pets discomfort. In cold weather,
many dogs or cats have difficulty
rising after snoozing for a while.
Some pets are stiff and sore after
exercising and many commonly
have trouble going up and down
stairs. To reduce the effects of
arthritis, keep your pet warm but
remember that medications play an
important role in managing arthri-
tis.
To keep pets comfortable and
warm at night why not give them a
hot water bottle?
Heat pads can be placed in a
pet's basket or bed to provide night
time warmth. They are commonly
used in our veterinary practices to
keep animals warm after surgery.
Ask us to order one in for you.
There are also many styles of
cosy indoor beds available that
your dog or pussycat can curl up
and snuggle into. We know that
many spoilt pets prefer their
owner's bed!
Of course, you can also give
your dog the latest in dog coats.
Some older pets are quite lean and
they really feel the cold as they
have no fat layer to act as 'insula-
tion'. For them, a dog coat can pro-
vide great comfort. A huge range of
dog coats are available, including
waterproof coats, parkas and the
good old Aussie oilskins.
If your dog sleeps outside then
you should also have a warm ken-
nel for it. A wooden kennel is suit-
able but it must have an elevated
floor to keep your dog off the cold
ground. Place thick bedding in the
kennel for extra warmth.
So while you're warm and
toasty this winter, don't forget your
pets.

Macarthur Veterinary Hospital

Ph: 4655 7664
6 Ironbark Ave, Camden
www.macarthurvet.com.au

12 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009

$209,000 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 mainte-
nance 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 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 Wilton
The perfect location. 3 bedroom all have built-
in'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
$340,000 Tahmoor
Well presented BV home, features 4 large
bedrooms - BIR to main, kitchen, large dining
& separate lounge. An enclosed sunroom,
Real Estate Report
swimming pool, a pergola & 3 bay steel frame
garage.
L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348
$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, federa-
tion style bathroom with an claw bath, pergo-
la, single garage & storage on 2276m2.
L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348
$393,000 BUXTON
This 4.9-acre block secluded & privately posi-
tion, backs onto Nattai National Park. It has
phone & 3-phase power connected to front
gate, town water available.
L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348
$399,000 Narellan
4 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 Thirlmere
5 bedroom split level home set on 3603sqm
block with rural aspect. Large formal & infor-
mal living areas, kitchen opens onto large
deck area.
Century 21 Picton 4677 2155
$469,000 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 instanta-
neous HWS & mezzanine storage.
L.J. Hooker Picton 4677 1348
$469,900 Thirlmere
1 acre. Backing onto Matthews Creek. 3 bed-
room cement rendered home. Brand new
kitchen & large games room. Side access,
garage, shed. Subdivision potential (subject
to council approval)
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, pres-
tigious homes & tall stands of trees sourround
you.
Dougmal R/E Camden 4655 9888
$649,000 Thirlmere
6.23 acres with everything, spacious 4 bed-
rooms 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
$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
$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
$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
$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 opportuni-
ty, perfect for dual occupancy, renovated cot-
tage 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 proper-
ty 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 bath-
rooms, 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 tim-
ber 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 & infor-
mal 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 15, 2009 The District Reporter 13
District Diary
District Diary is open to all non-profit commu-
nity 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: news@tdr.com.au or send us a
letter at The District Reporter, P.O. Box 116,
Camden 2570.
Green Thumbs Wollondilly Garden Club is
meeting on June 16 at the Masonic Hall,
Colden Street Picton at 10.45am. Guest speak-
er will be Heather Prior 'Iris Haven' speaking
on Cottage Gardens. Members are reminded
the July meeting will be held at 'Paolos' in
Picton and numbers and money are to be
bought to June meeting. New members are
welcome.
Camden Auxiliary Camden Hospital
Auxiliary meets in the Heritage Auditorium on
the third Wednesday (June 17) of the month at
10.30am. New members and visitors welcome.
Details Robyn 46472083 or Helen 46559114.
Hospital Awareness Friday June 19 there
will be a Camden Hospital community infor-
mation session at Camden Library 10am -
12noon. Bradley Warner Operational Nurse
Manager will talk on the In-patient and Out-
patient services at Camden Hospital.
Information sessions organised by the Camden
Hospital Focus Group aim to raise community
awareness of services available at Camden
Hospital. Call Ros 4655 3895 or Lorraine
4655 4546.
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 numbers are limited
- call 4684 1112.
Pastoral Care Carrington Centennial Care is
offering a free course in Pastoral Care training
for people interested in becoming Volunteer
Pastoral Carers at its Aged Care Facility in
Camden. The next course begins on Monday,
June 22. If you would like to gain some new
skills and make a real difference in the life of
others please call Donna Barnard (Pastoral
Care coordinator) for details on 4659 0418 or
email: dbarnard@carringtoncare.com.au.
Sewing Guild Sewing enthusiasts of all lev-
els 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.
VIEW Club Wollondilly Evening View Club
will have councillor Cassandra Twarloh as its
guest speaker on Monday, June 22 at Picton
Bowling Club at 6.30pm The councillor will
be talking about her vision for the shire. For
details call 4677 0329. 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.
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, fan-
tastic 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.
Caring Hands Volunteers are needed to pro-
vide a little pampering to residents at Camden
House through the Red Cross' Caring Hands on
Program by provides hand massages and man-
icures. 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.
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.
14 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
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.
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.
Oaks History Get along to Wollondilly
Heritage Centre at The Oaks on the first
Monday of very month to hear interesting
speakers on various topics or share in 'show
and tell' sessions or heritage films. Time
7.30pm with supper provided. For more infor-
mation call secretary, Viv Allen 4657 1889 or
president, Ben Lyon 4681 0472.
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.
Fine Yarn Wool 'n' What Spinning Group
meets in the Uniting Church, Thirlmere Way
Tahmoor every second Friday 11am-3pm.
Beginners very welcome and there is tuition
within the group. Call Dianne on 46842086 or
0438423168.
Your Move If you have a few hours of free
time and would like to learn or play chess get
along to Wollondilly Library every Monday
and meet like minded people. The Chess Club
meets every Monday from 10am in the library
at Picton. To find out more call the library on
4677 8300.
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.
Trefoil Guild Were you ever a member of the
Girl 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 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.
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 informa-
tion.
Volunteer Companions If you have some
time to spare Narellan Congregational
Community Services is looking for volunteers
who can assist the frail aged and disabled in the
area. 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 a
volunteer's time and means a chat and maybe
even a cuppa. Men volunteer visitors especial-
ly needed. Call Narellan Congregational
Community Services for more details on 4658
1040.
Spin and Weave Macarthur Spinners and
Weavers meet every Friday 9.30am at CWA
rooms, Cawdor Road, Camden. Beginners are
made very welcome. Contact Raelene on 4651
2697.
Bagpipes and Drums Have you ever
thought you might like to play either bagpipes
or drums, then the Ingleburn RSL Club and
Campbelltown Community Pipes and Drums
wants new members experienced or beginners.
It is the only Scottish pipe band in the
Macarthur area and has band practice on
Tuesday and Thursday nights at Ingleburn RSL
Club, Chester Road, Ingleburn from 7pm Call
Beverly on 4655 9407 to find out more.
Healthy Pins 'Steady Legs' exercise classes
for seniors are on Fridays at 10am in the
Cawdor Church Hall. There is no jumping,
many exercises are done while sitting, but
some while standing to improve balance. The
cost is $5. Call Sally on 0418 417 993 for more
details.
Time for Bridge Macarthur Collegians
Bridge Club meets Tuesday, 7.30pm; Thursday
10.30am; Saturday 1pm at Campbelltown
Catholic Club. Call Tony on 0410 190 573.
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 oper-
ates during school terms. For details call
46274872.
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.
MAG monthly The Macarthur Art Group
meets every second Tuesday of the month at
7pm at the Salvation Army Hall, Supa Centre,
Narellan Road, Narellan for discussion, paint-
ing, drawing and art demonstrations. The
Sketch Group with Figurative, Portraiture &
Life Drawing is now held on the last Saturday
of each month at Narellan Library from
12noon to 2.30pm. An art demonstration is
conducted by MAG members within the
Library before the Sketch Group meeting.
Visitors welcome. Call 4655 7473.
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 cou-
ples 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
CLASSIFIEDS
email: sales@tdr.com.au Ph: (02) 4655 1234 Fax: (02) 4655 3897
DEATH NOTICES
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 of
Michael, Anna and Gerard. Grandmother
if 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 and
father-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 years
Will be sadly missed by all his family and
friends
CUNNINGHAM, (nee Sturits)
Irene Edna
03.06.2009, late of Camden South
Cherished 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 Cronin
04.06.2009, late of Pheasants Nest.
Dearly loved husband of Evelyn and much
loved 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,
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 car-
ers. 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 cen-
tre at 5-6/50 Macquarie Street, Liverpool is
open on these dates: Monday, closed;
Tuesday, 10am-7.45pm; Wednesday 8am-4pm;
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 fel-
lowship through some chit chat and light vol-
untary 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.
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.
Lawrence and Macey. Adored brother and
brother-in-law, uncle, great uncle and
friend to many.
Aged 82 years
YOUNG, Anne Mary
03.06.2009, late of Tahmoor
Beloved wife if Bruce and dearly loved
mother of Meg, Nicola, Louise, and Tanya.
Sister of Edna (deceased) and Ted. Fond
Nan of Melissa and John.
WILLIAM R. GROVES
Funeral Directors
Picton 4677-1644 Camden 4655-6433
EMPLOYMENT
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
 email: Ph: (02) 4655 1234
SERVICE GUIDE sales@tdr.com.au Fax: (02) 4655 3897

ACCOUNTANTS ELECTRICIAN PET SERVICES SCRAP METAL

ANTENNAS FENCING PLUMBING SWIMMING POOLS

MACARTHUR RURAL FENCING

Specialising in: Firewood
p Rural Stock Fencing
p Cattle Yards $90
per cubic
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p Post & Rail
p Chainwire Free delivery
p Elegant Entries in local area
Ph: 0403 138 996 Home: (02) 4658 0042

AUCTIONS FENCING

AUTO PARTS & REPAIRS FENCING

BLINDS & CURTAINS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

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Monday June 15, 2009 The District Reporter 15


The routine Pacific
mission that went wrong
Ian Willis
I
n November 1942 an air-
craft from 32 squadron at
Camden airfield went on
a routine mission over the
Pacific Ocean. It was investigating
a sighting of an enemy submarine
off the South Coast. If the crew of
the Lockheed Hudson bomber
sighted the enemy they were to
attack with their four 250-pound
bombs.
While on their return to
Camden airfield they got lost.
The aircraft crashed into the
escarpment west of Dapto (Bong
Bong Mountain).
The crew of four was killed:
Sergeant Norman Clark, pilot; F/
Sgt Bernard Hubbard,
observer/navigator; Sgt Geoffrey
Rich, wireless operator/gunner;
Sgt Joseph Iredell, wireless opera-
tor/gunner.
The Wollongong coroner and
eye witnesses stated that there was
a low ceiling of clouds, with occa-
sional breaks, intermittent showers
and low visibility. On the night
various witnesses related how they
heard the aircraft about 9 o'clock
flying south over the coast near
Wollongong. The aircraft had been
scrambled at 4.45pm from
Camden airfield in the afternoon
to investigate the sighting of a
Japanese submarine off the South
Coast.
In a story by Cassie
McCullagh in 2004 she stated that
due to wartime secrecy the details
were not released to the public and
the 'tragedy became a little-known
16 The District Reporter Monday June 15, 2009
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.
footnote in the Australia's World
War II history'.
According to the Illawarra
Historical Society Bulletin
Japanese submarines had been
menacing the east coast through-
out 1942. Seven ships had been
sunk 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 the
north, 'possibly after the crew saw
the hill-face loom up in front of
them', according to McCullagh. A
number of witnesses recalled for
the coroner how the aircraft
slammed into the mountain and
exploded on impact.
In 2002 Wollongong resident
Brian Tate visited the crash site
and concluded that "you'd walk
through it and not know you'd
been there… souvenir-hunters
have taken it all away".
There was a good deal of con-
troversy surrounding the crash and
there was terse correspondence
between 32 Squadron and RAAF
Headquarters at Point Piper "about The plaque at Dapton in memory of those men lost from the 32 Squadron. Photo by S Larson
the foolhardiness" of the mission
on a stormy night, according to story would be that the aircraft the aircrew and the Dapto Rotary maintains that "after a generation
aviation journalist Bob Piper. crew was not buried with other Club has restored Clark's grave in or two have gone past they
members of 32 Squadron, who had Wollongong Cemetery. There is become forgotten and lost" and it
This story had been largely for- been killed in action while the unit also a memorial plaque at is important that this does not hap-
gotten.
was stationed at Camden airfield, Lockheed Reserve and a third pen.
But thanks to the efforts of two in Camden War Cemetery. plaque will be placed at the crash Emslie states that "people
members of Dapto Rotary Club, The aircrew of 32 Squadron site. should be reminded [of the story]
Norm Emslie and Alan Langbien, has been remembered on recent Graeme Iredell, the son of one because it was just such a terrible
the story has seen the light of day; Anzac Day memorial services of those killed, reminded people in waste".
again. They encouraged the club to
with fly-overs and there have been the Illawarra press in 2004 that the This is not the only story of
erect a memorial plaque at the a number of stories in the local physical signs of the crash have
loss suffered by 32 Squadron in
Dapto War Memorial opposite the Illawarra press. According to disappeared, but "other scars have
the time it was stationed at
railway station. Rotary Down Under four streets in not". He recalls that it had a terri-
Camden airfield in 1942 and 1943.
One reason for the loss of this West Dapto have been named after ble impact on his mother. He
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