Extra Time March 9

Brought to you by…

new era BEGINS ma lo n ey ma k es pa nth e rs d e b ut

HOOK’S SAFE > P34 The Masked Panther says Anthony Griffin’s future is not under a cloud

REPAYING THE FAITH > P36 After an underwhelming first year with Penrith, James Tamou is ready to fire

DERBY MATTERS > P41 Battle of the west has plenty of spite, says Premiership winner Jamie Soward

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

Big Wins for Big Sports Fans!

Just when you thought the big games couldn’t get any bigger.

WIN

A 65" OLED TV worth $9995

Must end 31st March

when you spend $250+ ^

Visit geddit.com.au/sport to enter

Penrith • Bateau Bay • Shellharbour • Newcastle • Campbelltown 32

^Competition open from 3rd March 2018 until 31st March 2018. Visit geddit.com.au/sport for full competition terms and conditions. NSW Lottery Licence LTPS/18/22168.

WW32486

v

THE FINAL WORD

SUNDAY, MARCH 11 • 4.10PM | PANTHERS STADIUM | REFEREES: ASHLEY KLEIN & MATT LOYEN

PANTHERS 1

Dylan Edwards

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Josh Mansour Waqa Blake Tyrone Peachey Dallin Watene-Zelezniak James Maloney Nathan Cleary James Tamou Peter Wallace (c) Reagan Campbell-Gillard Viliame Kikau Isaah Yeo Trent Merrin Corey Harawira-Naera Sam McKendry Moses Leota James Fisher-Harris Sione Katoa 19 Tim Browne

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

MATCH PREVIEW

Brought to you by…

EELS

CHANNEL 9 FOX LEAGUE

Tyrone Peachey in action against Parramatta last season. Photo: Megan Dunn

TROY DODDS @troydodds

A

nd so, here we are again. The start of the journey. The first step.

When the NRL released the 2018 Draw way back in October last year, coach Anthony Griffin circled March 11 on the calendar and commenced a long, hard preparation through the blistering Penrith summer.

Deep down you know the preparation is for an entire season, but there’s something about that first game. It’s true that you can’t win a competition in March but nobody is denying you can take the first steps towards one.

And so even in a tough-as-nails character like Griffin, there must be a few butterflies in the stomach heading into Sunday.

Make no mistake, this is a BIG game.

Being a local derby alone is enough to pack Panthers Stadium to the brim, but when you throw in the Penrith debut of James Maloney, the return to Parramatta of Jarryd Hayne and the expectations both of these sides carry with them in 2018, it offers something that seems more important than just the two competition points on offer.

Penrith are almost at full-strength for this one – but the loss of Dean Whare in the centres is a major blow. Tyrone Peachey is without doubt an excitement machine in attack but his defence is a big concern and there’s little doubt the Eels will target his side of the field with much of their attack when close to the line.

Peachey was exposed several times in the trials – he has a habit of rushing up, leaving his winger posted and offering the opposition a shot at the line.

TRIPLE M ABC 702

Parramatta meanwhile look strong right across the park, with Hayne to make his blue and gold return in the centres and Bevan French grabbing the number one jersey for the season opener.

For mine the Panthers look stronger in the forwards and on the bench and with hot conditions tipped for Sunday, this could be a decisive factor.

Penrith fans will be keen to see whether or not their side has improved in attack when close to the line this year. This became a persistent problem in 2017, but James Maloney may well be the missing ingredient the side needed to ensure the points tick over.

His combination with Nathan Cleary will take time to build, but on Sunday we should at least see the foundations of what is to come.

With the spotlight on coach Griffin and huge question marks over the side’s trial

1

Bevan French

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18

Josh Hoffman Michael Jennings Jarryd Hayne Kirisome Auva’a Corey Norman Mitchell Moses Daniel Alvaro Cameron King Tim Mannah (c) Manu Ma’u Tepai Moeroa Nathan Brown Beau Scott (c) Brad Takairangi Suaia Matagi 17 Kane Evans Will Smith 19 Kenny Edwards

form, a win on Sunday would relieve much of the external pressure that has been building on the Panthers in recent weeks. But all you can really hope for in round one is a sound effort – as long as the signs are there of a good season, fans should walk away happy.

I’ve been very impressed with how Parramatta handled their pre-season.

Despite the excitement surrounding their top four finish last year and the return of Hayne, things have been reasonably low key, which is a credit to Brad Arthur and the team’s management.

Penrith meanwhile will have an opportunity to let their football do the talking after a headline-plagued off-season.

I’m expecting this game to be a war of attrition with the result likely to go down to the wire, but the Panthers appear to have a slight edge, especially at home.

Tip: Panthers by 4

33

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

HOOK SAFE AT PANTHERS » Anthony Griffin is safe as Penrith

coach. Forget what you read elsewhere, Griffin’s future has not been discussed by the key players at Penrith and the relationship between Panthers boss Phil Gould and Griffin is just fine. Gould is fuming at the recent media speculation surrounding Griffin. There has certainly been a different dynamic to the coaching structure during the pre-season with Gould and premiership winning halfback Greg Alexander helping out more than ever, but I’m told Griffin has generally welcomed the fresh approach. That’s not to say Hook wouldn’t find himself under pressure if the Panthers had a poor year, but any talk of him being shown the door is unfounded and silly speculation.

Penrith coach Anthony Griffin Photo: Megan Dunn

» It was no surprise to see Tyrone

Peachey confirm last Friday that he’s leaving Penrith at the end of the season.

He’d been linked with the Gold Coast for some time, and the Panthers were supportive of his talks with the rival club despite the utility being under contract until the end of 2019. The deal with the Gold Coast is very good financially for Peachey, who will link up with former team mates Bryce Cartwright, Mitch Rein and Leilani Latu. “The contract at the Titans is a great deal and tremendous security for Tyrone and his young family,” Panthers boss Phil Gould said. Peachey will play out the 2018 season with Penrith.

» Penrith will struggle to keep Josh Man-

sour beyond this season. With plenty of money to spend, Parramatta have made the 27-year-old an offer that the Panthers would struggle to match – and if Penrith did stump up the cash, they’d be paying overs. That’s not to suggest Mansour isn’t worth good money, but the Eels’ offer is out of this world.

» Penrith is making its disdain for the

proposed mid-season test between England and New Zealand in the United States well known to the people that matter. The game is proposed to be played in Denver in June, when there’s a weekend free of club footy due to the Sunday night State of Origin clash. Penrith could be

forced to send Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Dean Whare half way around the world at a critical point in the season, and the club is struggling to find a way to give the idea a positive reception.

» Talking of US trips, I’m told Nathan

Cleary is weighing up a possible American holiday at the end of the year. But he may need to ask for some extended leave from coach Anthony Griffin – he doesn’t turn 21 until November 14 and would obviously be keen to let his hair down a little after what is likely to be a big season.

» A couple of Panthers legends have

secured new media gigs for the 2018 season. You’ll be seeing more of Ryan Girdler on ‘The Footy Show’ after he signed a deal with Channel Nine, while Mark

Geyer is several weeks into his new shift on Triple M, hosting ‘The Rush Hour with MG’ from 6pm weeknights. You’ll also see more of Greg Alexander on ‘NRL 360’ this year, so there’s plenty of Penrith flavour around the traps.

» The Panthers saw a very impressive

boost in online membership sales for the 2018 season. It’s partly thanks to the draw being out earlier, and also due to the ease of the new membership website, which made the task of selecting seats for the season a lot easier than in past years.

playing matches out of the refurbished Parramatta Stadium when it opens next year. However, I’m told any such move is unlikely with the current Panthers Board very adamant about ensuring the future of the club in Penrith, and potentially arguing for a new stadium in the future.

You’ll notice a real focus on the local area from the club this year, starting with the stadium name (Panthers Stadium) and continuing with game day initiatives such as recognising local heroes. Also expect to see a new scoreboard at the southern end of the stadium at some stage this year.

» I’m hearing the Panthers are consider-

» We were very saddened to hear the

ing introducing pet memberships in 2019.

» You can expect to see plenty of specu-

lation this year about Penrith potentially

news of long-time Penrith fan Mick Colbran’s death over the summer after a battle with cancer. We pass on our best wishes to Mick’s family.

W E’l l M a k e it

HAPPEN

34

LOCAL SAFE RELIABLE PROFESSIONAL

WW30581

CALL PHIL:

0413 577 817

www.dixonscranes.com.au

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

FEATURE

MEET PENRITH’S NEXT BIG THING NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

F

or all the negative stories you read or hear about Panthers coach Anthony Griffin, this story may change your mind about the man everyone calls “Hook”.

For every player Griffin lets go for one reason or another, there’s always someone else coming through the ranks.

The next young star, who could potentially make his NRL debut as soon as this weekend, is winger Christian Crichton.

Born in Samoa, Crichton moved to Australia via New Zealand back in 2005.

After playing rugby union as a kid, Crichton switched to rugby league because he simply enjoyed it more.

A St Marys junior, Crichton began his footy career as a member of Penrith’s Harold Matthews team and has slowly risen through the club’s system ever since.

Speaking with Extra Time this week, the 21-year-old has a sneaky suspicion that a

first grade debut may finally be around the corner.

“Yeah it is feeling like that,” Crichton admitted.

“Getting to train with the big boys during pre-season has been great but I’m really pushing to make first grade this year – I don’t want to wait too long.”

Crichton was named on an extended bench for this Sunday’s season opener against Parramatta and is likely to come into the side if Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is ruled out through injury.

Crichton said being a Penrith junior means making his NRL debut at the foot of the Mountains would be particularly special.

“It would mean a lot to me and my family especially because this is my junior club,” he said.

“I want to be here, I want to debut here.

Wherever my career takes me, I really hope it’s here that I crack first grade.”

While Crichton says he’s lucky to be learning from some of the best backs in the game each day at training, he admits

Young gun Christian Crichton is on the verge of making his NRL debut this season Anthony Griffin has done wonders for his confidence in recent months.

While some reports often suggest Griffin doesn’t get along with his players, he certainly has a big fan in young Crichton.

“What I really like about Hook is that he just lets us go out and play… he wants us to play our own game and doesn’t tell us to do this or that,” he said.

“Hook’s been really helpful telling us to go out there and enjoy our footy, and that’s when you play your best.

“He’s been awesome and a massive help to all the young guys coming through. He gives us a lot of confidence and tells us to push the big boys at training.”

Crichton is off-contract at the end of the current season.

We transport anything up to 50 tonnes

• General Trade • Machinery • Accident • Prestige Vehicles • Heavy Vehicle up to 12 Ton • Local • Containers

Penrith

4736 4400

• Interstate/Country • Fully Insured • Green Card

St Marys (Division)

• Accredited Drivers • Family Owned & Operated • Ticketed Operations

9623 2020

PENRITH TILT TRAY SPECIALISTS S T M A RY S - P E N R I T H - B L U E M O U N TA I N S

www.dickiestransport.com.au

WW32662

35

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE

TAMOU PROMISES BIG SEASON NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

E

James Tamou says he can’t wait to play the Eels on Sunday. Photo: Melinda Jane

ven James Tamou admits he didn’t quite live up to the hype many Panthers fans were expecting of him last season.

The Cowboys Premiership winner was meant to be that missing piece of the puzzle, the big time player for a Penrith side on the brink of something special.

Tamou was Penrith’s marquee signing for 2017, the man on the big dollars who has featured in a plethora of teams that know how to win.

However, Tamou’s first year as a Panther didn’t pan out the way that he had hoped.

“Last year was tough in ways but it was a learning curve more than anything,” Tamou told Extra Time.

“I think it was frustration on my part. I was unable to do the job that I wanted to do.”

Tamou admitted he felt guilty that he couldn’t give Penrith what they paid for in his first year with the club.

“I just wasn’t performing where I wanted to be and couldn’t bring to the team what I wanted to,” he said.

“That comes with being the big signing

MULGOA

and this and that, but it’s definitely time to put up.”

Following a season where he missed out on major representative footy for the first time in years, the 29-year-old has vowed to treat 2018 a lot differently.

“Playing up at the Cowboys was all good and I played rep footy up there, but at Penrith I wanted to perform for myself as opposed to performing to make these rep sides – it was more for self-comfort,” Tamou said.

“I think that’s the first thing I need to take into this year, hopefully I’ll be at more peace with myself and the rep stuff will look after itself.”

The father of three will be hoping to show a new side of himself when he leads Penrith’s pack this weekend against the Parramatta Eels.

The Battle of the West is arguably Penrith’s biggest regular season match of the year and this Sunday afternoon will be no different.

“I’m really looking forward to Sunday afternoon, it’s going to be unreal,” he said.

“We need to get off to a good start, last year we learned that big time. I can’t stress that enough. Parramatta is going to be tough. They are a really good side and really well coached. It will be a tough ask.”

$2.425m

Call to inspect 63 Farm Road YOUR FAMILY’S INVESTMENT FOR THE FUTURE

3

8

Call Barbara 0403 995 710

WW32727

36

5

Nestled in the prestigious Mulgoa Valley on 2.5 acres, this large 500+ sqm double brick home is a gardeners delight surrounded by landscaped gardens and flourishing fruit trees. This quality home has so much potential with five living areas 2.75m brushbox ceilings with Oregon beams and loads of storage.

• Brand new luxury central kitchen with 40ml stone benchtops • Walk-in pantry with appliance centre makes entertaining a breeze • Barn-style 240sqm 3-door remote door shed to suit 8 cars with 100,000L water tank plus town water as well • Saltwater 55,000L fully fenced swimming pool • Solar system 10kW on north-facing roof • Split A/C and fuel fire • Self-contained in-law accommodation with separate balcony, entrance and car space A rare gem close to the nation’s fastest growing south west corridor with rapid appreciation.

AN INVESTMENT FOR GENERATIONS TO COME! Convenient location with close proximity to village shops, Nepean River, great schools and the Western University complete the picture. If you desire a safe, secure location with remote security gates, sensor lighting in a peaceful sought after historic local village then make your dreams come true!

WW32609

Can you get people to stop tipping us to win the comp?

WARREN SMITH

unaltered trajectory from one season to the next.

Sometimes you can catch lightning in a bottle, as the Wests Tigers did in 2005, but most often there’s a couple of years of heartache and near-misses involved in the build-up to premiership success.

The Panthers have been close enough without being good enough over the past two seasons, and while there’s been a spotlight focused on them throughout the pre-season after the departures of Matt Moylan and Bryce Cartwright, the best thing to happen to the club may prove to be the loss of two players whose on-field performances weren’t getting as much coverage as their off-field dramas.

It also can’t hurt, for all the extra attention it’s guaranteed, if the General Manager and two-time premiershipwinning coach, Phil Gould (pictured), is taking a larger role with the team.

The Great Gus knows a thing or two about near-misses and ultimate glory, and you imagine that he and the team will be able to take it in their stride if at some stage this season the Panthers are able to again make people think that they’re more than good enough to take out the title.

Towns Cranes Pty Ltd is a local business owned and operated

by Kane Towns.

Towns Cranes Pty Ltd 0487 272 819 With over 20 years industry experience and E: kane@townscranes.com.au competitive hourly rates.

Safety is NO accident

Give Kane and his team a call on 0487 272 819 for your next crane lift.

WW32713

P

aul Green, like everybody else in his line of work, wants to feel the love.

Just not too much of it.

The North Queensland Cowboys premiership-winning coach finished a 45 minute chat with a statement as much as a request, but he knows that when you make the previous season’s Grand Final without your two highest profile players, it’s not exactly a quantum leap for most fans and experts to predict that his team will take out this season’s title.

Or maybe he simply remembers what happened to the Penrith Panthers last season.

The Panthers topped plenty of preseason polls for the tag of premiership favourites, only to limp through the first two months of the season, prompting plenty of questions about Anthony Griffin and his line-up.

The coach responded with one of the quotes of the season when he said, “Anybody who tipped us to win the comp doesn’t know much about footy”.

He might have been trying to ease the pressure on his underperforming squad, but Griffin also had a point – teams don’t necessarily keep heading north on an

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

Brought to you by

37

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

IN PICTURES

Photos: Penrith Panthers

LAUNCHED IN STYLE The Panthers held their 2018 season launch in late Februar February y CC TYRES is a local family-owned independent business established more than 60 years ago We supply many local businesses, Fleet companies, Government and Trade contracts. Selling all Tyre Brands, we supply and fit for Cars, Trucks, 4X4, Trailers, and Farm and Plant machinery.

We stock all major brands of tyres and wheels.

The latest equipment for larger wheel and run flat tyres.

Using the latest equipment such as: Premium inflation systems for clean dry air & the newest CAMERA Alignment for the best possible result.

WW29854

38

• Tyre sales • Wheel alignment (standard • Tyre puncture repairs (all tyres) • Wheel sales front, front and rear, full • Road Service for on site equipment inc backhoes, • Wheel balancing thrust alignment) bobcats, trucks, tractors etc

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

Get a copy of our Statement of Wishes to help you plan your final wishes.

Part of the local community Ph: 02 9826 2273 or visit www.kempscreekcemetery.com.au WW30302

39

40

WW32543

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

Local derbies mean so much to players

JAMIE SOWARD T

here’s no better way to kick off a new season than with a good old fashioned local derby. I don’t care what sport you play, a local derby always brings out a player’s best.

One of the most memorable local derbies of my career was when Penrith played the Eels at Parramatta Stadium a few years ago. The match went right down to the wire and fortunately we got the win in the final seconds after Bryce Cartwright scored off one of my kicks. I’ll never forget that game; it was one of the highlights of my career.

For Penrith, this Sunday’s blockbuster against the Eels at Panthers Stadium is going to be extremely tough. Because it’s the first game of the year there will be some rust, so it will be important for both teams to come out and complete sets early on.

In big games like that, it can sometimes catch you off guard if you are not ready for it straight away.

It will also be important for Penrith to get off to a positive start, so all that pre-season noise surrounding the future of coach Anthony Griffin can go away.

It’s funny how last pre-season they were

title favourites and this pre-season the club apparently is in turmoil.

As a player, Round 1 is what you’ve been training for all pre-season. You start to get itchy feet and it sometimes can drain you ahead of what’s already a big match in a local derby.

The key for Penrith for this weekend is concentrating on the game at hand, staying away from the limelight and putting all those off-season rumours about the coach to bed with a good performance.

Even though the punters aren’t tipping much from the Panthers this year, they are definite title contenders in my mind.

In fact, there are only six teams that have a premiership window open and Penrith is definitely one of them.

The arrival of two-time Premiership winner James Maloney will certainly boost their chances. Maloney is the key to this Penrith side and I think he unlocks and solves so many of their problems from last year in terms of game management.

He will also be able to help fellow half Nathan Cleary in those tight spots and allow him to continue to play his football.

I’m thrilled the season is back. Bring on the footy!

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

Brought to you by

“Our Family Caring For Your Family” Supremacy Funerals is family owned and operated by Sisters Donna Hildon and Belinda Erich. Our family has been conducting funerals and serving families of the Blue Mountains and Penrith area for three generations. Our Mother, Yvonne Meehan, owned and operated Lady of Grace Funerals in Emu Plains for twelve years before her retirement in 2013.

Belinda, Donna and their families now operate at Supremacy Funerals located in the heart of Penrith, in a traditional funeral parlour with a unique in-house chapel, seating over 200 people. Our Chapel is fully air conditioned with large digital TV screens, ideal for photo story presentations. Our Chapel is non-denominational and can be used for religious or non-religious burial or cremation services. Our purpose-built funeral home also has its own mortuary, so your loved one will remain with us in our care, until the day of the funeral. Supremacy has many comfortable family rooms and offices, however, all funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home.

Donna and Belinda understand the financial stress of organising a funeral, at Supremacy, we do not require deposits and send the account out after the funeral, to allow the family to focus on making their last goodbye as special as it can be without the worry of payment.

Considering a Pre-paid funeral?

Talk to us about your pre-paid funeral options, pay today's funeral prices with no extra cost in the future, protect your family and loved ones from the emotional and financial stress. We have payment plans available and your money is secured safely in a trust, furthermore, your investment is not deemed an asset so it can help maximise your pension entitlements. Talk to us first before considering funeral insurance. *Cremation Funeral Services starting from $5500 exclusive to Supremacy Chapel Penrith * Burial Funeral Services starting from $5900 Talk to us now for a personalised quote For Superior Funeral Care at Affordable Prices Call 4721 2020 Or visit or Website or Facebook Page for more images and information www.supremacyfunerals.com.au email: Info@supremacyfunerals.com.au

Open 7 Days 24 Hours Belinda Erich | Donna Hildon 44 Station Street Penrith Servicing Penrith, Blue Mountains and all Surrounding Areas

WW32718

41

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES CLUB

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

Panthers

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

2 Bulldogs

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

3 Cowboys

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

4 Dragons

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

5 W. Tigers

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

6 Knights

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

7 Broncos

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

8 Rabbitohs

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

9 Raiders

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

1

10 Roosters

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

11 Sea Eagles

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

12 Sharks

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

13 Storm

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

14 Titans

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

15 Warriors

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

16 Eels

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

00

00

/ / / / / / / /

BRANDING YOUR BUSINESS LOCALLY ──── Bookings Essential ──── Tuesday

You’re Invited

FACE IN THE CROWD

Round 1 Thursday, March 8 8.05pm UOW Jubilee Oval Friday, March 9 6pm McDonald Jones Stadium Friday, March 9 8pm 1300 Smiles Stadium Saturday, March 10 4.30pm ANZ Stadium

IS THIS YOU?

Saturday, March 10 7pm Perth Stadium

Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

If it is, you’ve won a Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Saturday, March 10 9pm Perth Stadium

Sunday, March 11 4pm Panthers Stadium

Extra Time Issue Number 001 PRINTED BY Spotpress Pty Ltd / PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Sunday, March 11 6.30pm C Cbus Super Stadium

CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Jamie Soward / Warren Smith SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi/ 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

HERE’S CHEERS!

ERINLOUISE

20th March 10:30am – 11:30am

To celebrate the launch of ‘My Local Brand’ We invite you to our Free Presentation, with special guest speakers who can show you how to make your business stand out amongst your competitors, combining affordable multimedia platforms

──── Unit 1/42-44 Abel Street South Penrith

Giving local businesses a voice, Vintage FM – ‘The Voice of Sydney’s New West’ will also be releasing an incredible offer for those attending

──── RSVP

steph@vintagefm.com.au

4731 1876

Join us for morning tea, meet other local businesses while gaining valuable insight and tools to brand your business

“Our radio and video ads have not only spread the fusion name, they are also a great tool we use on our website and social media pages. Vintage FM is present at countless community events and that is one thing we are very big on – Locals supporting locals.”

-

42

WW31857

Fusion Shutters & Blinds, My Local Brand Client

Nickname: Ez Age: 21 Occupation: Flight Attendant Years as a Pantherette: Four Favourite Panthers player: Trent Merrin Best thing about being a Pantherette: Best seats at Panthers Stadium Favourite song to dance to: ‘Man I Feel Like A Woman’ – Shania Twain

Biggest guilty pleasure: Spending a whole day in my PJs Dream job: Getting paid to travel the world Biggest influence/role model: My parents One thing people would be surprised to learn about me: I’ve competed in Miss World Australia and was a State Finalist.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

EXTRA MINUTES

HADLEY BREAKS A RECORD » 2GB’s Ray Hadley will enter his 32nd

year of rugby league broadcasting this weekend, becoming commercial radio’s longest serving rugby league caller. He takes the crown from the legendary Frank Hyde, who called for 31 seasons. However, there is no doubt Hadley is winding down his rugby league commitments.

While he’ll continue to host the Continuous Call Team most Saturdays, he’ll only call State of Origin matches and the Grand Final this year for 2GB, with David Morrow the main caller of week to week club matches.

» New Zealand Warriors hooker Nath-

aniel Roache won’t play this season after being forced to have surgery on a lumbar disc injury. 21-year-old Roache, the club’s 2016 Rookie of the Year, suffered the setback after returning from a ruptured Achilles tendon injury which ended his 2017 season in August last year.

» Online bookmaker sportsbet.com.au

has taken some decent sized bets over the NRL off season, headlined by a mammoth $35,000 at $7.00 on North Queensland to go one better in 2018. The Cowboys (now $5.50) are the most popular team to win the Grand Final followed by the Storm,

Roosters and Eels. The Warriors ($7.50) are the best backed team for the wooden spoon. One-third of all bets on Top 8 Finish have been on Newcastle ($2.50).

“Punters saw what North Queensland was able to achieve without Thurston and Scott and the Cowboys have been far and away the best backed team in the competition,” said sportsbet.com.au’s Christian Jantzen.

» If Adam Reynolds can find himself

three points for Souths this weekend against the Warriors in Perth, he’ll lock up his 1000th first grade point. He currently sits on 997 points.

» Returning Parramatta hero Jarryd

Hayne plays his 200th first grade game this weekend, and it’s probably no surprise that it’s against Penrith. Not only did Hayne debut against the Panthers at CUA Stadium in round 11 of 2006 (Penrith won 30-20), he also played his 50th and 100th matches against his western Sydney rivals.

» Brydens Lawyers has extended its

partnership with the Wests Tigers for a further three years. The new agreement will see Brydens Lawyers feature on the

2GB rugby league broadcaster, Ray Hadley front of the Wests Tigers playing jersey until at least the end of 2021.

» Cronulla Sharks tragic and 2UE broadcaster Clinton Maynard has released his

first book, focused on the Sharks’ historic 2016 premiership win. ‘Turn Your Porch Lights Off’ is available from the Cronulla Mall book shop or by emailing cronullasharksbook@gmail.com.

Available Across all Sydney Showrooms

SPASA Specials

If you’ve missed the 2018 SPASA (Spa) show and want to take advantage of the specials...

Splashes will be offering Show Prices...Until March 31 fun4four

New 4m Swim Spa

2m x 1.64m save $1300

2 pump Hydro swim system Fully insulated save Lockable cover $5000 4m x2.3m

$15956

$4490

now on

Sylvania

Hills District

86-88 Princes Hwy Opposite BMW Sylvania Ph 9522 4044

Inside Flower Power 609 Old Northern Rd Glenhaven 9680 8444

‘Part of your backyard since 1993’

Pension discount & government endorsed 7 days same day service Call your local specialist

New Store

Marsden Park 879 Richmond Rd Opposite Mcdonalds

www.splashes.com.au

WW32726

Having reception problems?

Need a new antenna?

Can’t tune your TV? Need a TV wall mounted?

We will fix it from $49 WW30912

Alan 0415 152 123

43

Friday, March 9, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

000

000

000

PREMIERSHIP WINNER

CC TYRES 4731 4822

FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES 4704 8585

SYNERGY FINANCIAL SERVICES 4732 6555

JAMIE SOWARD

MICHAEL ASHTON

ALEX MCKENZIE

SHANAKA DE SILVA

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

000

000

000

000

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT 4732 2195

ONE AGENCY REEVES PROPERTIES 4732 1600

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING 4731 8444

VICTOR GLANVILLE

ANDREW REEVES

TROY DODDS

LEE BANISTER

Dragons Knights Cowboys Tigers

Warriors Bulldogs Panthers Raiders

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Warriors Storm Panthers Titans

000

000

000

000

HARVEY NORMAN PENRITH 4737 5111

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0428 000 734

COUNTRY BREWER 4731 5444

RAINE & HORNE PENRITH 0414 321 000

PETER ANDERSON

BRAD DREW

DEE BARLOW

GARY ROSSETTO

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

44

000

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Titans

Dragons Knights Cowboys Tigers

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

Dragons Knights Sharks Roosters

Rabbitohs Bulldogs Panthers Raiders

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

000

000

000

000

PENRITH CBD CORPORATION 0437 506 517

AT PRINT 4731 5055

GOTZINGER SMALL GOODS 0418 594 791

ST MARYS PROFESSIONALS 9673 4422

GAI HAWTHORN

AARON TYERS

BILL MCDEED

TERRY HANSEN

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

000

000

000

000

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0434 400 225

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

MACQUARIE ACCOUNTANTS 4731 5628

MICHAEL BALL REALTY 0414 264 668

CAMERON FAICO

NATHAN TAYLOR

CHRIS AYLING

MICHAEL BALL

Warriors Bulldogs Eels Titans

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

000

000

000

EZRVEND 0414 254 074

STANTON & TAYLOR 4731 2899

BOQ PENRITH 0427 998 110

VISION PAINTING & DECORATING 0404 459 600

DERRY O’DONOVAN

MICHAEL TAYLOR

GREG LAWTON

HANS BOR

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

000

000

000

000

IRRESISTIBLE POOLS & SPAS 4776 1118

HERTZ 4731 6344

GARTON GROUP MCDONALD’S 4721 2992

RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL 4722 8500

KEITH WILSON

TEENA EDWARDS

IAN GARTON

KATE RADCLIFFE

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

000

000

000

000

KELLY PARTNERS 4721 7433

FOX LEAGUE

CATHOLIC CEMETARIES 9826 2273

ONEPOINT HEALTH 4732 5188

CHARBEL GEAGEA

ANDREW VOSS

KIM RILEY

KYLE PERRY

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Bulldogs Eels Titans

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Titans

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Warriors Storm Eels Titans

000

000

000

000

MACQUARIE COMMERCIAL 0402 896 906

SMITH STREET AUTO 4731 4019

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR CONDITIONING 4735 6411

DICKIES TOWING 4736 4400

LUKE BELOTTI

MATT BOND

ANTHEA STRATHDEE

NARELLE TUBIE

Rabbitohs Bulldogs Panthers Titans

Rabbitohs Storm Eels Raiders

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Dragons Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Bulldogs Panthers Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Sharks Roosters

Warriors Storm Panthers Raiders

000

000

000

000

ROBERT HENRY STATEWIDE REALTY 0418 650 579

HITCHENS 4735 7000

COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING 1300 266 529

FOWLER AND CO 4722 3066

ROBERT HENRY

TREVOR HITCHEN

DANIEL MCKINNON

ROSS FOWLER

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

Broncos Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Broncos Knights Cowboys Roosters

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Titans

Dragons Sea Eagles Cowboys Roosters

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 9, 2018

000

Rabbitohs Storm Panthers Raiders

45

Complete Staff Solutions provide recruitment solutions to organisations Australia wide through our network of 13 branches!

LOCAL BRANCH, STAFFED BY LOCAL PEOPLE WHO KNOW THE WESTERN SYDNEY LABOUR MARKET. WHY NOT TRY US? OUR SERVICES EMPLOYERS • Permanent recruitment • Temporary recruitment • Temporary to permanent recruitment • HR Consultation • WHS Consultations U EĆ‚ ĂŒiĂƒĂŒÂˆÂ˜} ­œ˜ ĂƒÂˆĂŒi >˜`Ă‰ÂœĂ€ ˆ˜ ÂœĂ•Ă€ ÂœvwViÂŽ • 24/7 operation– speak to a live consultant! • All stages of recruitment • Outplacement

JOB SEEKERS • Available Jobs Â­Ăƒii ÂœĂ•Ă€ ĂœiLĂƒÂˆĂŒi LiÂ?ÂœĂœÂŽ • Employee Assessment Tools • Job Mail • Resume Service • If selected for Registration, come in and have a coffee with us whilst we discuss your career options.

WE WANT • General labourers U /Ă€>vwV VÂœÂ˜ĂŒĂ€ÂœÂ?Â?iĂ€Ăƒ • Construction workers • Road and rail workers • Plant operators: excavators, rollers, graders • Concreters

• Factory workers • Forklift drivers • Trades • Process workers • Assemblers U "vwVi ĂƒĂŒ>vv

FREE

Our local branch in Penrith is ready to assist Western Sydney organisations in all their ĂƒĂŒ>vw˜} ˜ii`ĂƒÂ° 7i Ă€iVĂ€Ă•ÂˆĂŒ vÂœĂ€ >Â?Â? ˆ˜`Ă•ĂƒĂŒĂ€ÂˆiĂƒtt We have a total of over 50 years’ experience ˆ˜ Ă€iVĂ€Ă•ÂˆĂŒÂˆÂ˜} q Â?Ă•ĂƒĂŒ ˆ˜ ĂŒÂ…i *iÂ˜Ă€ÂˆĂŒÂ… Ă€>˜VÂ…tt We are all about “Good old fashion customer serviceâ€?.

DAY ON US WHEN YOU BOOK A TEMP FOR ONE WEEK OR MORE

NORTHERN ROAD PROJECT WE NEED YOU NOW! LONG TERM LOCAL WORK

We are now recruiting for The Northern Road project, near Bringelly, just 25 kilometres from Penrith. If you have Road and Civil experience and you want work for 2.5 years (expected) we want to hear from you.

SKILLS WANTED • Road and Civil Labourers • Plant Operators - Excavators - Rollers - Graders

CALL TODAY 4721 1817 OR EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO PENRITHADMIN@COMPLETESTAFF.COM.AU ĂŁ Suite 1, 8 Castlereagh Street, Penrith (opposite the Penrith RSL Club)

www.completestaff.com.au

WW32739

¤

% Ɖ

ÂŤ b &(/(%5$7,216 % 2 ) 6 %

4 9

g 3+9 ' 2 8 4 2 2 ' VgĹą52

-) &%6 &&5 8-22

: .

2 / 8 6 ' * + = gĹą

WW32736

* 4+ &1(4-41 .'1* 8*7;.( 9-* 7*85438 *8 49 42 57 28 49*1 897&1.&3 7

:8

GET YOUR TICKETS AT OZTIX.COM.AU TATTERSALLS HOTEL CNR STATION ST & UNION RD PENRITH (02) 4744 2002