NSW Premier Chris Minns: Winter Sports World jewel in tourism crown
“I CAN’T think of a better place for Australia’s first indoor snow resort than in Penrith.
“Winter Sports World will be Western Sydney’s jewel in the crown of tourism attractions, and I can’t wait to see it enjoyed by people not just from our state, but from all around Australia and beyond.’’
So said NSW Premier Chris Minns when he visited the Winter Sports World site for the first time recently [December 20, 2024].
He was accompanied by Deputy Premier Prue Car, Penrith State MP Karen McKeown OAM and Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.
They met with Winter Sports World managing director Peter Magnisalis on the Tench Ave/Jamison Rd site.
Also Minister for Western Sydney and Education and Early Learning, and Londonderry MP, Ms Car said: “It just blows my mind that in a few short years we’re going to have this opportunity for our kids to enjoy something we could have never dreamt about in Penrith.”
Western Sydney children and young people “deserve the very best, and they’re going to get it.”
As well as recreation opportunities to the scale never seen in the region, Winter Sports World would provide the chance for Western Sydney people to see and play in snow, an experience currently financially and geographically out of reach for most people.
Long-time project supporter, Ms McKeown praised Mr Magnisalis’ enthusiasm and drive and said she was excited about the flow-on benefits to local business.
“Western Sydney people absolutely deserve world-class facilities like this. This will put us on the map – Penrith will be the centre of the universe.”
Expected to generate more than 2,700 new jobs, Mr Carney said “the giant Esky” would be one of the top employers in Penrith with almost as many jobs as Penrith Council.
It worked in with the council’s vision to become a destination hub, building on existing attraction
and activity offerings like Cables Wake Park, iFLY indoor skydiving and Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
It was also a major part of the council’s Riverlink Tourism Precinct masterplan to activate the precinct and provide connectivity between the river and Penrith CBD, he said.
“It’s been a long time on the cards but it’s really great to see it finally nearly about to kick off.”
Construction on the $700M+ Winter Sports World will begin in the first half of 2025, and it will open in 2028.
Granted State Significant Development Application (SSDA) approval by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment on January 11, 2024, it is the largest new attraction project currently in Australia and the biggest ever in Western Sydney.
It will inject $222 million annually into the local
economy, contributing $2.5 billion over the next decade, and double visitation for Penrith with 1.35 million additional visitors.
Mr Magnisalis said: ``Winter Sports World is a catalyst for positive change for Penrith and Western Sydney, and I’m delighted that the Premier, Deputy Premier, Ms McKeown and Mr Carney can now visualise the tourism future.’’
Using real snow, Winter Sports World will include:
• A 300m advanced open run for experienced skiers and snow boarders, learn to ski runs and a dedicated winter wonderland snow play area
• Competition venue for snow sports such as alpine skiing
• Ice climbing and crevasse outdoor rock climbing
• 4-star 170-room hotel, conference and function rooms
• Restaurant and cafes with snow views
Life-saving defibrillators to be installed at Penrith sports facilities
SPORTING organisations in Penrith have shared in $500,000 funding from the NSW Government for new potentially life-saving defibrillators. The funding was awarded to 193 sport and recreation organisations under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program which provides up to $3,000 for the purchase, installation, and training in new automated external defibrillators.
Penrith recipients include:
• Nepean District Cricket Association
• Penrith Netball District Association Inc
• Penrith District Rugby League Referees Association Inc
• Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation
The announcement brings the number of devices awarded since the program commenced to more than 2,500.
To view the full list of recipients, visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/ grants/local-sportdefibrillator-grantprogram
“With more people than ever participating in sport and active
recreation in Penrith, it’s vital that our local facilities are equipped with these potentially life-saving devices,” Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said.
“I congratulate the recipients and commend them for prioritising the safety and well-being of their participants.” Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“The Local Sport Defibrillator Program equips sports clubs to be able respond to potentially life-threatening
emergencies at their sports facilities.
“And with the first few minutes following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest critical, the NSW Government is ensuring people participating in sport and active have access to this potentially life-saving equipment.
Founder of Heartbeat of Football Andy Paschalidis said the investment by the NSW Government has the potential to mean the difference between life and death.
“I applaud the NSW Government
for the ongoing defibrillator rollout programme which is saving lives.
“Last year, at least six footballers in Sydney alone were saved because of defibrillator access at their grounds and the rapid response by individuals trained in CPR.
“It’s wonderful to see 200 sporting clubs will now be able to purchase and install these life saving devices.”
Professor Jamie Vandenberg, Codeputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, said around 10,000 people in NSW suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital each year, and currently the vast majority will die.
“Being able to access a defibrillator in those crucial first minutes can make all the difference, so it’s incredibly heartening to see that almost 200 sporting clubs will now be able to purchase and install these lifesaving devices,” Professor Vandenberg said.
“This will help keep families together. “This is a sobering statistic but it’s one we can change for the better by installing more of these lifesaving devices in sports clubs across the State.”
Photo: David Hill, Deep Hill Media
Baby time at all three libraries
PENRITH City Libraries’ Baby Time is a great opportunity to let the little ones learn, play and grow strong. Enjoy songs, rhymes, and stories. It is best suited for 0–2-year-olds.
Join Baby Time from 9.30-10am during term at:
• St Marys Library on Tuesdays
• Penrith City Library on Wednesdays
• St Clair on Thursdays
The term starts from Tuesday 11 February and ends Friday 11 April.
The sessions are free and bookings are not required. For more information, visit https://brnw.ch/21wQeCb
95B STATION ST, PENRITH
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Join in the clean up!
JOIN the movement for a cleaner, greener Australia!
Save the date: Sunday, 2nd March 2025, is Clean Up Australia Day!
The Clean Up Australia organisation encourages any enthusiastic volunteers to register their own clean-up or join an event in your local area.
Whether you’re part of a school group, small business, or individual, there are many ways you can step up to contribute on Clean Up Australia Day.
Participation in this annual event
contributes to the conservation of our environment. By removing litter, we can increase the amenity of our public spaces, protect local habitats and biodiversity, and keep our waterways clean and healthy.
Penrith Council can assist with removing and responsibly disposing of any waste collected by registered groups following the event.
Visit https://brnw.ch/21wQgDb for answers to FAQs and to find out how you can get involved.
Join in on family fun
THE Mobile Playvan is returning to Penrith for Term 1 from Tuesday 4 February 2025!
Families are welcome to join in on the free supported playgroup sessions. Penrith Council’s playgroups offer parents and children an opportunity to connect with others, engage in learning experiences and to just have fun!
Bookings open every Friday for the following week. Please visit https://fal.cn/websiteplayvan
to book into a session.
As it is the start of a new year, families will need to complete their parent information form. This form can be found under the bookings button on Council’s website or by scanning the QR code at a session.
Penrith Council staff look forward to welcoming both new and existing families for another fun year at Mobile Playvan!
Opportunity knocks
PENRITH Producers is a great opportunity for local market stallholders and food vendors to engage with the community in a family-friendly event.
Express your interest in being a part of Penrith Producers 2025! The next event is on Friday 4 April from 5-9pm at Triangle Park in Penrith, and they’d love to have you there.
Penrith Producers is a free familyfriendly event featuring live music, activities for kids, culinary delights, and local makers and businesses.
They’ve been hosting the event since 2019 with great success. The event includes four zones: Food Zone, Market Zone, Kids Zone and Beer Garden hosted by local breweries.
If you’d like to be a part of the event, please fill out our Expression of Interest forms -
Market stallholders: https://forms. office.com/r/FHGY4qQr15
Food vendors: https://forms. office.com/r/DNWRuuNXhf
Expression of interest closes Sunday 16 February 2025.
Barking News!
ZIG ZAG Railway is welcoming dogs on board Sunday 16 February!
“Can I bring my dog along?” has been one of the most asked questions since they launched in 2023, and they are over the moon to bring that opportunity to life for all their dog-loving friends.
Their very first ‘Dogs day out’ will allow visitors to bring their furry friend for a heritage train ride not to forget.
Bookings are essential and every travelling pooch will receive a
commemorative dog ticket on check in (make sure you have booked in advance so not to miss out!).
Special Zig Zag Railway doggythemed merch will be available in our Clarence shop, and Zig Zag Cafe will be serving puppa-chino’s for your pooch (along with their regular, delicious options for the humans).
All dogs must have a valid ticket purchased for the day. Additional terms and conditions also apply.
https://zigzagrailway.com.au/ event/dogs-day-out/
Nepean Family History Society
Next Meeting: 1.30pm Saturday 1 February
Location: Old School Residence, Gt Western Hwy (off Lawson Rd), Emu Plains
Speaker: Bruce Turner, AM
Topic: The Banks of the Nepean Trilogy
Beach volleyball
PENRITH Beach has partnered with PCYC Penrith to host a weekly beach volleyball competition and they’re looking for teams to join the action! This tournament is open to players of all levels, from beginners to pro.
Find out more and register your team at www. nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/penrithbeach#toc-whats-on-at-the-beach
Slow down in school zones as students return for Term 1
SCHOOL zones will be back in force across most of NSW from tomorrow (Friday 31 January) as students prepare to start Term 1 after the summer holidays.
Transport for NSW Executive Director Transport Safety Chadi Chalhoub, said although some schools have School Development Days between Friday, 31 January to Wednesday, 5 February (inclusive) other schools do not and will have children returning during that time, so it’s important that motorists are aware school zones will be in place.
“After six weeks of school holidays, school zones are back tomorrow to ensure students attending school in those four days are safe and to prepare drivers for when all students are back to school across most of the state on Thursday, 6 February.
“For students in the Western Division of the state, the school term will start a week later – and school zones will be in place from Friday 7 February.
“Children are some of our most vulnerable road users and can be unpredictable on the road, so please look out for them when they are crossing, waiting to cross or as they get on or off buses or in and out of vehicles,” Mr Chalhoub said.
Mr Chalhoub said, sadly two school aged pedestrians were seriously injured in an active school zone in the first half of 2024.
“Speeding, even just a couple of kilometres over the limit, could be the difference between being able to stop in time or not at all and in a school zone, this could mean hurting a child.
“I urge parents, guardians and all drivers to be patient and slow down around schools to ensure children remain safe on their journeys to and from school.
“The start of the new term is also a good opportunity for parents and
guardians to start teaching children early about road safety and remind them to Stop! Look! Listen! Think! every time before they cross the road,” Mr Chalhoub said.
Transport for NSW Executive Director Active Transport, Anna Bradley said:
“Families are also encouraged to walk, ride or scoot to school when possible, as it provides a great opportunity for exercise, quality time, independence and mental health benefits, while reducing traffic congestion during peak periods and improving environmental outcomes.
“The NSW Government remains
committed to making these journeys safer and more accessible across NSW through the Get Kids Active Program,” Ms Bradley said.
School zones generally apply from 8 to 9.30am and from 2.30 to 4pm on school days and motorists who don’t obey the rules face heavy fines and demerits. Some schools have nonstandard school zone times in NSW. You can identify these by the red or orange school zone signs which have the school zone times on them.
For more information, please visit: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ roadsafety/community/schools/ school-zones
Endeavour Energy announces 2025 Powering Communities Grants Recipients
ENDEAVOUR Energy is excited to announce the recipients of its 2025 Powering Communities grants program, which will support a range of impactful initiatives across the region stretching from Central West NSW to the Blue Mountains; the Southern Highlands, Illawarra to the South Coast and across Greater Western Sydney.
This year’s recipients include a foundation that provides children in hospital with super-hero inspired medical gowns, designed to make hospital stays less intimidating; a rural fire fighting service that will gain lifesaving communication capabilities during natural disasters via Starlink; and a community organisation that provides cooked breakfasts for children and grocery packs for low income families, helping ease the burden of rising living costs.
These three organisations are just a few of the many that will benefit from Endeavour Energy’s 2025 Powering Communities grants program, all of which aim to support local communities in a variety of meaningful ways.
Leanne Pickering, Endeavour Energy’s Chief Customer and Strategy Officer said, “We are thrilled to support these incredible organisations and the vital work they
are doing in their communities. The 2025 Powering Communities grants will support projects that strengthen community resilience, foster inclusivity, and address local needs, helping to build a brighter future for those in need.
“We were overwhelmed with the community’s positive response to the program receiving more than 250 applications for so many well deserving projects. Our committee of advocates rigorously reviewed each application against the grants’ criteria and had the very challenging task of selecting recipients to deliver very important outcomes to help our communities to thrive.
“The 2025 recipients demonstrate
the power of local initiatives to create positive, lasting change, and we are proud to be part of these efforts.”
Local successful applicants for the 2025 Powering Communities grants program are:
• Get Blak on your Feet, Penrith: The grant will fund an Aboriginal cultural program that teaches leadership, resilience, and cultural engagement to children, promoting the celebration of Aboriginal culture and encouraging participation from local schools.
• Hazelbrook-Lawson Girl Guides, Blue Mountains: Helping to build community resilience and create gathering space during extreme weather events by funding
the installation of a battery and connecting to existing solar panels.
• WestCare Community Services, Penrith Nepean Region: The grant will provide fortnightly cooked breakfasts for school students and grocery packs for families in the Penrith region, supporting lowincome families facing rising living costs.
• Wisemans Ferry Rural Fire Service, Hawkesbury: The grant will help upgrade communication technology, including a Starlink kit and smart TV, to improve disaster resilience and ensure better connectivity in fire-impacted areas when power and phone networks fail.
The serpent’s wisdom: what lies ahead for Year of the Snake
WHAT do JFK, Audrey Hepburn, Muhammad Ali and Taylor Swift all have in common? They were all born in the Year of the Snake.
As we get set to celebrate Lunar New Year commencing on 29 January, Professor Jing Han, Director of Western Sydney University’s Institute for Australian and Chinese Arts and Culture, explains to us what the Year of the Snake means – as well as what the year ahead may hold for those born under this auspicious animal in the Chinese zodiac.
Professor Han said those born in the Year of the Snake are said to be mysterious, determined, charismatic and wise – and maybe a little sceptical, or even obstinate.
Along with JFK and Tay Tay, other famous Snakes in history include Bob Dylan, Oprah Winfrey, Stephen Hawking, Tony Blair and Volodymyr Zelensky.
“If you were born in 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, or will be born between 29 January 2025 and 16 February 2026, you are and will be the Snake,” said Professor Han.
“The Snake is the sixth of the 12year cycle of animals in the Chinese zodiac. As the legend has it, the Jade Emperor called the race to create the zodiac and all animals were invited to participate for a chance to be featured in the zodiac system. The first 12 animals to cross the river and the finish line would earn a place in the lunar calendar and in the order they completed the race.
“The Rat – by taking a ride on the back of the Ox – completed the race first, because the Rat jumped ahead of the Ox at the finish line.
“The Pig, who needed to eat and take a few naps along the way, came the last. Hence the order of the 12-animal cycle is: Rat, Ox, Tiger,
Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.”
Professor Han said the Chinese zodiac and its variations are celebrated in many East Asian and Southeast Asian countries, such as Japan, South Korea, North Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal, Bhutan, Cambodia, and Thailand.
In some parts of Thailand, the Pig is replaced with an elephant. In Vietnam, by replacing the Rabbit, the Cat finally also secures a place in the zodiac.
“In the zodiac system, the emphasis is on one’s birth year rather than month. In Chinese, the zodiac system is called Sheng Xiao and also Shu Xiang, meaning ‘birth year’ and ‘likeness’. It is believed that one’s personality is related to the attributes of their zodiac animal,” said Professor Han.
“The Snake is associated with wisdom, charm, elegance, and transformation. People born in the Year of the Snake are mysterious, charismatic, intuitive, calm, strategic, positive, wise, determined, intelligent, goal-oriented, responsible and graceful.
“They are deep thinkers, good at problem solving and excellent
communicators, although they can also be indifferent, sceptical, possessive, and obstinate.”
Professor Han said in Chinese culture and philosophy, the eternal Five Elements govern the phenomena occurring in the natural world. These are Fire, Wood, Metal, Water and Earth and they also affect the characteristic traits of the zodiac animals.
“This year, it is Wood, so Wood Snake are said to be precise, coolheaded, creative, and have logical thinking,” she said.
“The Snake is also called ‘Little Dragon’, hence the Year of the ‘Little Dragon’ refers to the Year of the Snake. That is because the Snake shares the appearance and mysterious qualities of the Dragon and it is believed that the mythical figure of the Dragon has originally been modelled on the Snake.”
Professor Han said in China, Lunar New Year is also called the Spring Festival which starts on the eve of the lunar new year and ends on the 15th day of the first month, being known as the Lantern Festival. In 2025, the Lantern Festival will be on 12 February.
“The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many Asian countries and increasingly around the world,
including Australia,” said Professor Han.
“The first recorded Chinese New Year celebration in Sydney was in 1899. In 2019, the name of the celebration was changed to Lunar New Year to better reflect the increasingly multicultural society of Australia and to include all communities who celebrate the Lunar New Year.
“Since 2020 the annual celebration has been known as the Sydney Lunar Festival and become one of the largest celebrations of the Lunar New Year outside Asia and one of Sydney’s major annual arts festivals.”
OTHER
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE
• Apparently – choose to believe or not to believe! – the Snake is most compatible with Rooster, Ox and Monkey. Snakes are meant to be least compatible with Pig and Tiger.
• Professions that those born in the Year of the Snake are best suited to include artist, politician, teacher, painter, psychologist, public relations officer, TV presenters, scientist, magician, dietician, sociologist, and social media influencer.
• Some famous Snakes:
- John F Kennedy
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
- Audrey Hepburn
- Muhammad Ali
- Bob Dylan
- Oprah Winfrey
- Taylor Swift
- Mia Wasikowska
- JK Rowling
- Babara Walters
- Stephen Hawking
- Dick Cheney
- Tony Blair
- Prince George
- Emmanuel Macron
- Volodymyr Zelensky, who also caught the tail of the Snake – born on 25 January 1978, whilst the Year of the Snake ended on 27 January in 1978.
Statement of response from Susan Templeman MP
FEDERAL Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman said the Cleanbill survey is incorrect and does not accurately represent bulk-billing or out of pocket data.
“We know we have more to do to keep strengthening Medicare, after a decade of cuts and neglect from the Liberals, and we are committed to doing it,” Ms Templeman said.
“Let’s get the facts straight: official data shows our record investment to strengthen Medicare has stopped the freefall in bulk billing that was created under the Liberals.
“After we tripled the bulk-billing incentive for GPs, bulk-billing has started rising again in every state and territory – delivering an additional 5.8 million free visits to the GP in just 13 months.
“In Macquarie, 82.8% of all GP visits are bulkbilled since our additional investment in Medicare took effect, compared to the NSW figure of 81.1 per
cent of all GP visits, which means there have been more than 30,000 additional bulk billed visits to the doctor in the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury.
“Since the Albanese Government was elected, 32 new GPs have started billing Medicare locally.
“In our first year, 22 new GPs joined the area, eight more than joined during the Coalition’s last year in office - or a 57 per cent increase.
“One of the reasons for the increase was that we designated the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) which provides additional incentives and supports for GPs and practices.
“The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has called our Government’s investment in Medicare a “game changer”.
“The historic investment in bulk-billing builds on other ways the Albanese Government is strengthening Medicare to make health care more
available and affordable, including making the largest boost to Medicare rebates in decades which lifted rebates by more in two years than the former government did in nine years.
“We’ve also funded and opened 87 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, including in Penrith, so Australians can walk in and get bulk-billed urgent care, seven days a week, open early to late, without waiting hours in a busy hospital emergency department. I’m advocating for more of these locally.
“We’ve added more than 17,000 new doctors to the health system in two years, delivering the most new doctors in more than a decade, and we’ve boosted the number of doctors training to become GPs by almost 25%, fully funding the training of 4,800 new GPs between 2023 and 2025. The RACGP told me that the renewed interest in GP training places by young doctors was like “green shoots of hope”.
Penrith celebrates Australia Day
PENRITH Council would like
to extend a big thank you for diving into their Australia Day celebrations at Ripples Leisure Centres at Penrith and St Marys!
“We had a splashing great day enjoying entertainment, music and garden games while cooling off in the pool,” a Council spokesperson said.
“We are proud to have hosted this event with assistance by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.”
For more upcoming Penrith City Council events visit penrith.city/ events
M4 Motorway access at Mulgoa Road reopened
COMMUTERS across Greater Western Sydney are regaining key access routes ahead of the Australia Day long weekend with the reopening of the M4 Motorway ramps at Mulgoa Road.
The ramps have been shut since the start of the year to allow for critical resurfacing work to be carried out.
This involved removing the old road and replacing it with a stronger surface featuring improved drainage, new asphalt, and fresh line-marking.
Transport for NSW replaced the concrete pavement at the base of the ramps to better match the new lanes and upgraded intersections.
Crews worked day and at night to meet the deadline while minimising light and noise impacts for local residents.
This work was completed as part of the ongoing Mulgoa Road upgrade between Jeanette Street and Blaikie Road.
Further night work is now scheduled across the project area on Monday 3, Tuesday 4, Thursday 6, Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 February from 6pm to 7am.
Crews will be carrying out utility and drainage work, road maintenance and surfacing, pouring concrete, installing landscaping and removing the Wolseley Street island.
There will be lane and road closures during the night work along Mulgoa Road, and motorists are asked to keep to speed limits and follow the direction of traffic controllers and signage.
In case of bad weather or operational issues, work will take place on Wednesday 5, Friday 7 and/or Wednesday 12 February.
During the latter part of February and early March, Transport for NSW will be working on completing the intersections with Blaikie Road and Wolseley Street.
This will require a series of partial closures of these intersections and further information will be provided as soon as the details are finalised.
When the upgrade is complete, Mulgoa Road will have three lanes in either direction incorporating the wider and safer ramps for travelling to and from the motorway.
For more information, visit the project webpage at www.transport.nsw.gov. au/projects/current-projects/mulgoa-road-upgrade-between-jeanette-streetregentville-and-blaikie-road
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said:
“I’m pleased to see this essential work carried out on schedule, and I want to thank the local community and commuters for their patience and cooperation during this time.
“The Liberals talked a big game about Penrith, but when it came to providing for our community, they simply did not deliver.
The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering for Western Sydney, and I will continue to advocate for the completion of the Mulgoa Road upgrade.”
Welcome to our new citizens!
“THIS morning I had the honour of welcoming 205 new citizen’s at the 2025 Penrith City Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony. Welcome to all our newest Aussies,” said Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.
Australia Day recognition to our outstanding local residents
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
Mr David John Bertenshaw, Londonderry
For service to soccer as an administrator and coach. Hawkesbury City Football Club • President, since 1991. • Youth Technical Director, current. • First Grade Coach, 19832007. • President, since 1991. • Life Member, current. Hawkesbury City Sports Council • President, since 1997. • Committee Member, since 1994. • Former Member, Australia Day Awards Committee. • Life Member, current. Football NSW • Chair, Standing Committee National Premier Leagues 3 Division, current. • Member, various Steering and Technical Committees, since c1990. Soccer - Other • Coach, various clubs, since 1976. • State League Player, various clubs, 1966-1991. • Vice President, NSW Soccer Coaches Federation, c1980s. Community • Board Member, Richmond Club Ltd, 2007-2015. Awards and Recognition include: • Distinguished Long Service Award for Football, Sport NSW, 2022. • Main soccer field in the Hawkesbury officially renamed David Bertenshaw Field, 2014. • Charles Valentine Medal, Football NSW, 2011. • Australian Sports Medal, 2000. • Australia Day Citizen of the Year, Hawkesbury City Council, 2000.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division Mrs Vivienne Bertenshaw, Londonderry For service to netball as an administrator and coach. Hawkesbury City Netball Association • Vice President, 2013-2021. • Representative Convenor, 2013-2019. • Representative Selector, 1992-2021. • Coach, NetSet-Go, since c2000. • Assistant Coach, Metro League, current. • Coaching Pathway Coordinator, current. • Former Delegate, Netball NSW. • Former State League Coach. • Coach, Disability Netball, since 1978. • Manager, Metro League, 2015. • Coach, Metro League, 20162018. • Representative Coach, Juniors,
1988-1992. • Inter-District Coach, 1992-2000. • Patron, since 2021. • Life Member, since 2005. • Coach of Year 1993. • Patron, Hawkesbury City Netball Association, since 2022. Londonderry Netball Club • President, 1978-1992. • Coach, 1978-2000. • Umpire, 1978-1992. • Player, A Grade, 1977-1990. • Life Member, since 2010. Awards and Recognition include: • Anne Clarke BEM Outstanding Service Award, Netball NSW, 2012. • Service Award, Hawkesbury City Netball Association, 2003. • Citizen of the Year, Hawkesbury City Council. • Australian Sports Medal, dedication to Netball 2004. • Hawksbury City Council, Sports Award 2000.
Nominations are now open!
CALLING all nominations for the 2025 Local Celebration Awards!
Do you know an incredible individual or group that goes the extra mile to make Penrith a better place? Whether they dedicate their time to community service or tirelessly work for a good cause, it’s time to recognise our unsung heroes!
Nominate them today in one of Penrith Council’s four categories:
• Citizen of the Year (18+)
• Young Citizen of the Year (24 and under)
• Mayor’s Local Hero Award (all ages)
• Making a Difference – Community Service Award (all ages)
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate those making a difference! Find out more and nominate at: https://brnw.ch/21wQgoG.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division Ms Noemie Eva Fox, Sydney For service to sport as a gold medallist at the Paris Olympic Games 2024. Australian Olympic Team • Gold Medallist, Women’s Salom Kayak Cross, Paris, 2024. Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division Mr Royce Michael Simmons, Penrith For service to rugby league as a player and coach. Penrith Panthers Rugby League Club • Inducted, Hall of Fame, 2016. • Coach, 1994-2001. • Captain, 1983-1990. • Premiership Player, 1991. • Played, 237 First Grade Games, 1980-1991. Australian Rugby League • Representative Player, 19861987. • Played, 10 Tests. • Assistant Coach. New South Wales Rugby League • Representative Player, New South Wales State of Origin, 1984, and 1986-1988. • Played, 10 State of Origin Games. Coaching Career • Coach, St Helen’s, United Kingdom, 2011-2012. • Assistant Coach, West Tigers, 2003-2010, and 2013. • Coach, Hull Football Club, United Kingdom, 1992-1994. • Coach, St Mary’s, United Kingdom, 1992. Royce Simmons Foundation • Director, since 2022. • Established, Royce’s Big Walk, 2022. • Founder, 2022. Awards and Recognition include: • Citizen of the Year, Penrith City Council, 2023.
ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY
HOSPITAL
Tyson’s Triumph – A story of resilience and recovery
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
AT Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, stories of courage and healing unfold every day, but some leave a lasting impression on both our hearts and our commitment to care. Tyson, a spirited 6-year-old dachshund, is one of those stories.
Tyson came to us as an emergency, presenting with a rapidly worsening wound on his lower back and tail. What initially seemed like a simple wound was found to be quite severe having become infested with maggots. Fly larvae, commonly referred to as maggots, can quickly colonise open wounds, feeding on the skin and causing significant pain, infection, and tissue damage.
Recognising Tyson’s distress, Dr. Omnia and Dr. Camille acted swiftly. He was immediately given pain relief, and the affected area was carefully clipped and cleaned to remove the maggots and prevent further infection. The wound was quite open and close to the rectum, so any surgery to close the wound may have caused complications.
A groundbreaking treatment was used to allow the skin to heal over time without surgery, Phovia a fluorescent light treatment. Phovia is a noninvasive, light treatment that combines a special gel containing chromophores with an LED lamp emitting blue light. When applied to the affected skin, the chromophores in the gel are activated by the lamp’s blue light, releasing fluorescent light energy. This energy penetrates the skin, boosting its natural regeneration processes and potentially reducing healing time by up to 50%. What’s remarkable about Phovia is its pet-friendly approach—no sedation is needed, and it is well-tolerated by even the most nervous of patients.
Tyson has undergone three Phovia treatments to date and is showing remarkable progress. His wound is
healing well, and his once-dimmed spark is returning, much to the delight of his loving family. Tyson’s case highlights not just the challenges that maggot wounds can pose but also the importance of timely, innovative veterinary care.
Thanks to the prompt and skilled care of our team, Tyson’s condition was treated without the need for a surgery.
For pet owners, Tyson’s story serves as a reminder to be vigilant, especially during warmer months when flies are more active. Promptly addressing any
wounds, no matter how minor they seem, can prevent complications like maggot infestation.
At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we remain committed to embracing advanced treatments like Phovia to provide the best care for our furry patients. Tyson’s resilience inspires us, and his story underscores the incredible bond between pets, their families, and the veterinary professionals who stand by them every step of the way.
Here’s to Tyson—a true champion of healing and hope.
SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY • 12 TO 4PM
Tyson on presentation
Tyson after 4 x Phovia treatments
A streetcar named desire
BY Tennessee Williams
Directed by Jessica Thorpe
PERFORMANCE DATES:
Saturday 1st February 2025 7pm | Saturday 8th February 2025
7pm |Saturday 15th February 2025 2pm & 7pm
In this raw and honest story set in 1940’s New Orleans, we meet Blanche Dubois, a woman conflicted and shadowed with her past looking for shelter with her younger sister Stella. After many years apart Blanche appears on her sister’s doorstep with nothing left but the clothes in her suitcase. Blanche appears as a timid southern bell- a withering flower in the sun, but Stella’s volatile husband
Stanely sees through her mask digging into Blanche’s past for answers. But will Blanche be able to begin anew with gentle and honest Mitch or will her history determine her future relationships as well. Tennessee Williams’s classic masterpiece is full of desire, deception and intensity bringing forth the honesty of the human condition. Ticket price is $35 for adults and $30 concession.
To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/CXRZR
To reserve tickets email rubyproductions99@gmail.com
“A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au
IT goes without saying how lucky we are to live in Australia. Our country is safe, it’s beautiful, and it offers a quality of life that many around the world envy. But another thing I think we often take for granted is the sunshine. We get a lot of that here - especially this time of year in Western Sydney!
Jim’s Gems
And you know what thrives in conditions like that? Solar.
This week, I’m going back to basics and sharing everything you need to know about solar: what it is, how it works, and why it’s worth having on every roof.
Let’s start with an example. As I write this - on Tuesday, the 22nd of January - the weather is forecast to hit 39 degrees Celsius. In typical Penrith fashion, you can already feel the heat, even though it’s still well before midday.
But here in the office, we’ve got the aircon pumping. Not only are we cool as cucumbers, but we’re working comfortably for free, because the sun is providing all the power we need.
IThanks to my system at home as well, it gets even better. I’ve set the aircon on a timer, so my house is combatting the heat while I’m at work and the sun is out - again, at no charge to me. By the time I return tonight, my home will be perfectly cool, and I won’t have to worry about what it’s costing me.
This is one of the biggest benefits of solar. You can cool or warm your home for little to no cost, live comfortably, and avoid the shock of a hefty electricity bill.
So, what is solar, and how does it work?
In simple terms, solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity to power your home or business. This electricity can be used
immediately or stored in a battery for later. It’s clean, renewable energy that reduces your reliance on the grid - and your financial stress.
Beyond comfort and savings, solar offers:
• Energy independence: Protect yourself from rising energy prices.
• Environmental benefits: Reduce your carbon footprint and help the planet.
• Added value: Increase your property’s resale value.
Australia’s sunshine is one of our greatest assets. Solar energy helps us harness it, keeping us comfortable year-round while slashing bills. So, stop sweating over energy costs. Take control of your comfort and make the switch to solar today!
LEFT OF FIELD
S it just me or have people noticed the (Jaws music please) the New Year’s Resolution walkers!?
Run for your lives, they are taking up our streets, roads, footpaths and even parks, they are everywhere, don’t feed after dark or add water.
Yes folks these are the people that you never see all year round, they are like hermit crabs all year and then suddenly......
The one thing I also notice is all the different types of walkers out there.
Mixed Matched walker - The mixed match walker is a person who has never bought fitness gear in their life and it appears that they have replaced an engine block prior to the walk.
The determined walker - This is a person that has the look of pain on their face, like they are passing a large object, however they’re walking slower than a snail. There’s a lot of arm pumping going on but not much distance happening.
The I don’t give a rat’s bum walker - This is a walker that proceeds to kick every stone up along the path and meander like they are heading to work or something.
The sweaty walker - This is a walker that looks like they have swum 10 laps and then jumped out of the pool for the evening walk. The sweat beads are pouring out and the t-shirt looks like the last scene of Rocky when he is yelling out for his wife, Adrian!
The male bum crack walker - This is a walker that feels the need to wear shorts with no elastic. Their pants are constantly sliding down and they are presenting a crack bigger than a plumber’s.
The Harry High Pants - This is a walker who wears their shorts so high it looks like they need an operation to get them off.
Colour co-ordinated walker - Thank God for these ladies, with matching shoes, socks, tops and of course the Lycra pants, with, yes folks, the matching thin colour stripe down the side of the pants. (I hear the angels sing).
Supermodel walker - This is a walker who attends the beautician to have their hair and make-up done simply for their daily walks. These people don’t care if they are getting fit as long as they get 20 thousand car horns beep, they’re happy.
Now I know you’re asking what has all of this crap got to do with security, but alas my dear readers it
has a lot, because I am going to give you walking security tips. So just keep ya knickers on!
Firstly, tell people where you are walking, so when you are not back in 48 hours they know where to come looking. They can also cash in on your life insurance as well.
Secondly, we know how much you love Dolly Parton, but having her screaming at 70 thousand decibels in ear phones is not really good, considering you won’t hear anything or anyone around you.
Thirdly, walk in groups, so society not only has to put up with one of you on the street but 15. (Yippee) Fourthly, don’t keep checking facebook. Taking selfies on every street corner is not really needed, because to be quite frank we don’t really care that you have decided to walk for two weeks only into the New Year, and it also takes your attention away from what you are actually doing.
So there you have it the NYRW (New Year’s Resolution Walker) not for the faint-hearted folks, this is a trend that you must approach with fear and caution as it only happens at 12.01 on the 01/01 of the New Year - miss the boat and you have to wait another 12 months!
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security
JStruck By Motor Car
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
AMES Bourke a resident of Orchard Hills died in High Street Penrith on Friday on the 2nd January 1925. Mr Norman Wade was driving his car up High Street and when opposite the Federal Hotel he saw James crossing the road. He blew his horn and swerved his car but continued on when James suddenly staggered in front of him. He was driving slowly and pulled up quickly but his car struck James and his body was pulled along by it. James’s body was taken by Norman to Dr Higgins who pronounced life extinct and his body was then removed to the Hospital morgue. THE INQUEST. The district coroner Mr Arthur Judges held an inquiry at Penrith Court House on the Tuesday morning. Dr Higgins stated that on Friday the 2nd of January at about 8 pm he examined the body of James Bourke in the car in front of his surgery and found that life was extinct. He had known the deceased for about 24 years and about the last six or seven years had treated him for various conditions especially vertigo and sent him down on one occasion to consult a specialist about it. In this condition there is frequently a disturbance of equilibrium and general instability of movements, attacks of dizziness being common, sometimes at intervals of a week or more and sometimes continuously. It is usually due to trouble either in the middle lobe of the cerebellum or also in the Labyrinthine portion of the internal ear. He thought he also suffered from fatty condition of the heart. He had a scalp wound but there was practically no haemorrhage which is very unusual as the scalp is very vascular. For many reasons he considered that death was due to natural causes and not to injury by contact with a motor car. No bones were broken and in addition to what he had already stated that the deceased was deaf. Frank Herbert Judges (storekeeper) stated that on that evening about 7.45 p.m. he was standing on the pavement in front of his store and saw the deceased leave the footpath on the opposite side of the street and at the same time he saw a car approaching from the west. The driver swerved when near the deceased and he saw the deceased hesitate and seemed to be confused and lurched forward in front of the car and he believed the driver of the car had the brakes applied at the time and was traveling not more than eight miles an hour. He saw the car strike the deceased and his body was carried along the length of the car. Both wheels on one side went over the body and the brakes must have been well on as he was afraid the last wheel of the car would rest on the body. The body was then picked up by the driver of the car and taken to the doctor but he did not recognise who was injured. Norman Victor Wade stated that he was a motor driver living in Belmore Street Penrith and on the night
about 7.40 o’clock he was driving in High Street in an easterly direction accompanied by Victor Purcell and another passenger, driving about nine or ten miles an hour and when opposite the Federal Hotel he noticed a man crossing the street. He blew his horn and the deceased stopped. He swerved the car and continued on when suddenly the deceased seemed to stagger in front of the car on the offside. He pulled up about the length of the car and picked the deceased up and took him to Dr Higgins in his car. He then reported the occurrence to the police while the doctor was examining the body and then he took the body to the Penrith morgue. He has been driving a car for ten years and he was a careful driver. When he blew the horn he continued because the deceased just stood there and he thought he would be able to pass him and he would have done so if he had remained still but he fell forward and there would have been no necessity for him to pull up if the deceased had stood still. Victor Purcell stated that he was a motor driver and resided in Station Street Penrith and he remembered the night he was in a car with Norman Wade at about a quarter to eight. They were going in an easterly direction travelling about 9 miles per hour at the time and when opposite the Federal Hotel he noticed a man crossing the street and he said to the driver “Norman look out for the chap coming across the street.” Norman blew his horn and the man seemed to stop to let us go past but he then staggered and fell in front of the car near the offside wheel and Norman pulled up the car and we then picked the man up and took him to Dr Higgins and reported the matter to Constable Whitten and then he assisted the Constable to convey the body to the morgue. He could feel that the wheel had gone over something. Constable Whitten stated that at about a quarter to eight Norman Wade and Victor Purcell called at the Penrith Police Station and Wade told him that he had knocked over a man in High Street and believed he was dead. Dr Higgins said that the body was sent to the Hospital morgue. He then removed all clothing and examined the body. There was a wound at the back of the head that was bleeding. Later he examined the spot where the deceased had been knocked down and it was close to the footpath near Judges’ Pharmacy. The coroner stated that he must be guided to a certain extent by the doctor’s evidence where he stated that death was possibly due to natural causes and believed the whole thing had been purely an accident due to the shock of being hit by the motor car. James was born in Greendale in 1860. He married Annie Wedesweller at Camden in 1882 and was a retired Engine Driver.
of the Grave courtesy of the Find a Grave Website.
Source: Nepean Times Saturday 10 January 1925, Ancestry.
Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist.
Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor. We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.
Photo
Photo of the grave courtesy of the Find a Grave Website.
LOCAL paraathlete Layla Sharp has been presented with a Government award from State member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP and Premier Chris Minns, in recognition of her outstanding
athletics performance representing NSW at National events, including All Schools, the Australian Open and the Australian Cross country.
Layla’s impressive results include: Athletics All Schools 800m (2022 in South Australia) 1st 800m; Athletics All Schools 100m, 200m, 800m (2023 in Western Australia) 1st 100m, 1st 200m, 1st 800m;
Australian Athletics Championships (2024 in South Australia) 3rd 400m 1st 800m; Australian Cross Country Championships (2024 in Tasmania) 1st Place.
and
Photos supplied by Karen McKeown OAM MP
Layla has dropped her distance events
is now focused on sprints with coach Rob Marks from Project Elite.
Jess Fox OAM, Tristan Carter, Ben Pope and Noemie Fox OAM win Oceania Titles
BY
PARIS Olympic champion Jessica Fox OAM (AUS) has won both the Oceania WK1 and WC1 crowns, Finn Butcher (NZL) won the MK1 crown, Tristan Carter (AUS) the MC1 crown, Ben Pope (AUS) the MKX and Paris Olympic champion Noemie Fox OAM the WKX on a huge weekend of canoe slalom at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
Jess finished first in the WK1, ahead of of Klaudia Zwolinska (POL) in second place and Camille Prigent (FRA) in third.
“It was good to be out there, to be back on the start line at the start of the year, and feel good,” Jess said.
“I wasn’t really sure how I was going to feel, but I attacked it and I’m proud of myself so far this weekend. It’s always a great time of year having international athletes come out and do their winter preparations here.
“With the World Championships here in October, we’re seeing more athletes come out, so it’s awesome to be sharing the start line with them, training sessions, and being back altogether.
“It feels like it was a long time ago since the last international race, so I’m loving it,” she said.
Other Australians in the 12-woman WK1 Final were Noemie Fox OAM (4th) and Kate Eckhardt (6th),
In the men’s kayak final, Frenchman Mathieu Biazizzo was the fastest paddler down the course, but ineligible to win the Oceania crown.
Paris Olympic champion Finn Butcher (NZL) finished second, and as the highest-placed Oceania athlete won the Oceania title, with 2x Australian Olympian Lucien Delfour rounding out the podium in third.
Other Australians in the 12-man MK1 Final were Tim Anderson (5th), Ben Pope (9th) and Angus Thompson (10th).
Paris Olympic silver medallist Adam Burgess (GBR) won the men’s canoe final (MC1), ahead of Dmitrii Khramtsov (AIN) in second and Australian Olympian Tristan Carter in third.
As the highest placed Oceania athlete, Carter won the men’s canoe Oceania crown.
“I was stoked that I was able to hold it together - although the actual run itself wasn’t that great, I ended up doing a couple of spins where I didn’t really want to” Carter said.
“But I’m really happy, even though I didn’t perform how I wanted to. And that’s a sign of maturity, that’s growth and I’m really happy with that.
“It’s still a big check for me and I’m really happy to come away with the Oceania championship and third overall - it all worked out in the end,” he said.
Other Australians in the 12-man MC1 Final were Kaylen Bassett (10th) and Ben Ross (11th).
Backing up after the earlier kayak
finals, Jess Fox paddled strongly to finish second in the women’s canoe (WC1) Final to claim her second 2025 Oceania crown, despite finishing behind Olympic bronze medallist Evy Leibfarth (USA) in first place and Klaudia Zwolinska (POL) rounding out the podium in third.
Other Australians in the 12-woman WC1 Final were Noemie Fox (4th), Kate Eckhardt (7th), Georgia O’Callaghan (11th) and Code Davidson (12th).
West Australian Pope won the men’s kayak cross final (MKX) on the last day of racing to claim the Oceania crown, whilst Noemie Fox was also crowned Oceania champion, despite narrowly missing the Final in a world class field.
Pope was dominant in the Men’s Final, exploding off the start ramp and holding onto his lead down the course to cross the line in first.
“It was a big day today - lots of kayak cross. I had a really good time trial run, I finished in third and I was super happy with that, and that set me up really well for the rest of the racing,” Pope said.
“Through the head to heads, and
each round, I managed to just get out in front of everybody and I built a lead through the rest of the run, and managed to finish first each round all the way to the final,” he said.
Noemie reached the Women’s semi finals, then finishing third to narrowly miss the Final.
Noemie said she was proud of her efforts today, especially amongst a world class field of women’s competitors.
“It was a very stacked kayak cross field - we had Olympic champions, world champion, European champion, lots of World Cup winners…
“So in the female field, it was so stacked and it’s incredible to have them all here training and to go up against them.
“Disappointed to be knocked out in the semis and I felt like I couldn’t do anything (differently), so there’s lots to build and learn from.
“But it feels like a real privilege to have such high level competition at home.”.
The action will return to the Penrith Whitewater Stadium from 21-23 February, for the 2025 Canoe Slalom AUS Open
NOEL ROWSELL
Jess Fox OAM (WK1)
Finn Butcher (MK1)
Jess Fox OAM (WC1)
Tristan Carter (MC1)
Noemie Fox OAM (WK1). Photos by Noel Rowsell
Evelyn Oram wins Junior Golf Masters Event
RICHMOND GC Ladies Club
Champion Evelyn (Evie) Oram has continued on her winning way, taking out the Under 14 Girls Scratch division at the Ray Harrison & Alex Mercer Junior Golf Masters, which was held at Carnarvon GC on Monday 20th January.
Evie has brought her golf handicap down to a very impressive 6.2, winning two recent A Grade events at Richmond, one being the Monthly Medal.
Evie will also represent Richmond GC at the Manly & NSW Women’s Champion of Champions event, which is being held at Manly GC on 3rd February.
Other local players competing in the Champion of Champions event are Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) and another Penrith member Joanne Ogle, who will be representing Camden Lakeside GC.
Jake Thompson (Leonay GC) also fared well in the Ray Harrison & Alex Mercer Junior Masters event, finishing runner-up in the 17 Boys division.
Ti Fox wins South Creek Cup and Pymble Cup on Australia Day weekend
16-YEAR-OLD Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) has continued an outstanding run of form in major events, claiming the South Creek Cup at Dunheved on Saturday and following up with a course record to win both the Pymble Cup and Pymble Junior Cup at Pymble on Sunday.
Dunheved GC hosted the annual South Creek Cup on Saturday 25th January, featuring 51 Vardon players among the strong field of 232 starters.
The course was in superb condition and Ti, who is one of western Sydney’s hottest young golfers, rose to the occasion to take the Cup with a score
of 2-under-par 70, ahead of Nicholas Katholos (Carnarvon GC) 72.
The Colt winner was Connor Hamilton (Dunheved GC) on 79, the John Fearnley Cup (Junior) winner was Luke Carruthers (GC) on 80 and the Nett winner was Gene Tukaki (Dunheved GC) on 65, ahead of Ken Graff (Dunheved) 68.
Sunday’s action moved to the Upper North Shore, where Ti would again show a clean pair of heels to a hot field of contenders in the Pymble Cup.
Ti shot a course record 5-under-par score of 67 to finish one shot ahead of Harry Atkinson and Adam Soonius. He added even more silverware to his burgeoning trophy cabinet by also winning the Pymble Junior Cup.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
John Fearnley Cup Winner - Luke Carruthers (Dunheved GC). Action photos by Noel Rowsell Nett Winner - Gene Tukaki (Dunheved GC)
Dunheved Cadet - Joel Pagett.
Pymble presentation of Pymble Cup. Photo supplied
Pymble presentation of Pymble Junior Cup. Photo supplied
Captain Ken Mudge & Ti Fox - South Creek Cup. Photo supplied
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Evelyn Oram with her Junior Masters trophy. Photo supplied
Noemie Fox Awarded Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
2025 REGISTRATION OPENS MONDAY 2 DECEMBER
DON’T WAIT - REGISTER EARLY! JOIN THE STC FAMILY
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
• Playing kit - shorts and socks
• Training shirt for under 5s - 13s
• Club polo for Under 14s - Opens
Clothing pick up days will be posted on the Club Page in the New Year Current Active Kids Vouchers are accepted.
Important information:
As per JL, Internal Transfers don’t open until 1st February 2025 and won’t be accepted prior to then.
Players are required to be registered to be able to train and covered by insurance. Teams from under 12s to Open are Train and Trial before teams are selected. If players are not chosen into a team then registration will be refunded.
Contact Club Registrar
or Club Page for
NOEMIE Fox has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division, for service to sport as a gold medallist at the Paris Olympic Games 2024. Noemie was a member of the Australian Canoe Slalom Olympic team and won a gold medal in the Women’s Canoe Salom Kayak Cross.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Noemie Fox Wins Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games - photos courtesy of Gary Bowden / Paddle Australia
How a rare defeat is driving Panthers’ Vegas bid
Penrith Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo is confident his side has learned the lessons of last year’s World Club Challenge loss to Wigan as they prepare to open their 2025 NRL campaign in Las Vegas.
BY CAMERON MEE NRL REPORTER
THE four-time defending NRL premiers will travel abroad in February for the secondstraight season, having flown to England for the World Club Challenge in 2024.
The trophy remains the one piece of silverware to elude the Panthers juggernaut, the side falling to Wigan 16-12 in a tense contest.
While the match did not deliver the desired outcome, Yeo said there were plenty of lessons to take from the defeat as they prepare for another international odyssey, this time to the United States.
“It’s not every day you get to experience a different culture on the different side of the world,” Yeo said. “We’ve spoken about it as a group, we’re looking forward to starting the season with a bang.
“You have the excitement that you’re jetting over to the other side of the world but you have to try not fall into the trap of it’s a holiday. You’re still going over there to try and win competition points.
“That’s the main challenge, everything else comes off the back of that. You want there to be that excitement, it is a bit of a novelty, you don’t get to do it everyday. This is probably the only time us as a group will do it so you make sure you enjoy the trip but you’re also there to do a job.”
Penrith will commence their quest for a stunning fifth-straight NRL title when they take on the Sharks in the final game of a quadruple header in Las Vegas.
The event will bring the reigning champions of the NRL and Super League competitions together, however they will be thousands of kilometres from Wigan’s home base.
Wigan have their sights on a thirdconsecutive UK title and will take on the Sam Burgess-led Warrington Wolves in the opening match of the Vegas spectacle.
The Raiders will then face the Warriors before the Jillaroos play England in a historic women’s Test match, with Penrith and Cronulla set to finish the event with a bang at Allegiant Stadium.
Thousands of fans are set to travel from Australia and Great Britain for the festival of rugby league, with the crowd expected to surpass the 40,746 that turned out for last year’s inaugural event.
The Las Vegas expedition comes as the NRL expands into new markets while also consolidating support in Australia, the UK and the Pacific.
Like many Australians, Yeo has developed into an NFL fan, the forward closely following the
Indianapolis Colts throughout the rugby league off-season.
It’s a situation he hopes US sports fans can embrace in reverse, with rugby league positioned to become their sport of choice during the NFL off-season.
While the games have plenty of differences, Yeo said there are more similarities than meets the eye and is confident American football fans will appreciate the physicality and teamwork required to succeed in the NRL.
“There’s so much hard work and struggle you do,” Yeo said. “Whether it’s at training, it’s form slumps individually or as a team, you go through all those things together.
“There’s no better feeling than going through that struggle as a group and then having success at the back of it. It’s a rewarding job but it’s not an individual job. You’re doing it alongside blokes you’re with more than you’re with your family over that nine-month stretch so it’s very fulfilling and good fun.”
ROUND 1 - SUNDAY 2ND MARCH
3.30pm @ Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas V
Royce Simmons awarded OAM honour
Royce Simmons has officially been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
BY PANTHERS MEDIA
THE Panthers great was honoured for his contributions to rugby league as a player and coach, as well as his outstanding community work.
Panther no. 181, Simmons made his first grade debut in 1980 and played 237 games for the club.
His final match came in the 1991 Grand Final, as his heroic performance helped the Panthers win their first premiership.
Simmons captained the Panthers for eight seasons from 1983 to 1990, and went on to become head coach from 1994 to 2001.
In 2016, he was named an inaugural member of the Panthers Hall of Fame.
After being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2022, he established the Royce Simmons Foundation to support dementia research. In each of the past three years, he has embarked on the Royce’s Big Walk initiative, raising millions of dollars for the cause.
Simmons was named Penrith City Council’s Citizen of the Year in 2023 in recognition of his charity efforts.
The Medal of the Order of Australia is awarded annually to recognise Australians who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.
Royce Simmons will continue his fundraising through his upcoming Sportsman’s Luncheon, with
tickets available now - www.penrithpanthers.com. au/news/2025/01/24/royce-simmons-foundationconfirms-2025-sportsmans-luncheon/
