Western Weekender February 20 2025

season preview

IN SEARCH OF A FIFTH TITLE, PENRITH

From Las Vegas to Parramatta, Bathurst, Mudgee and Brisbane, the Penrith Panthers will certainly clock up the kilometres as they traverse the country – and the world – in their quest for a fifth straight Premiership this year.

Ivan Cleary’s men are the team without a home this season – waiting for their plush new stadium to be built in Penrith in time for the 2027 NRL season – and it will present a unique and new challenge for a side that has overcome plenty during this incredible Premiership run.

There are many unanswered questions about this new campaign.

The lack of home ground is just one of them.

For the first time in a number of seasons, there is a little bit of uncertainty around Penrith’s spine – with Jarome Luai’s departure opening the door for rising star Jack Cole, or new recruit Blaize Talagi, to wear the number six jumper alongside Nathan Cleary.

There is general acceptance Talagi will ultimately be the man, but you don’t just walk into this Penrith side – which is why some believe Cole will be given first shot when Ivan Cleary

names his side for the opening round clash against Cronulla in Las Vegas. The Panthers also have to fill the void left by James Fish

10 jumper as a starting prop. Smith had a sensational year last year, ultimately earning national representation for Australia, and at 25-years-old he may just be ready to peak. Just how good a season Smith has could be crucial to Penrith’s chances.

The Panthers have been fortunate in recent years that despite injuries sions, the loss of playmaker Nathan Cleary for long stretches during the regular season has not had a significant impact on

In fact, it could be argued that the unexpected breaks handed to Cleary kept him refreshed and focused –both mentally and physically.

But this year, I’m not sure Penrith will be so fortunate should Cleary go down. I don’t think there’s been a more important year for Cleary to stay healthy and out of trouble, particularly with Luai no longer there to pick up the slack in his absence. Crucial too will be Cleary’s co-captain Isaah Yeo. He had the best individual year of his career in 2024, a season where almost everything went right and his status in the game entered another stratosphere. But can he keep it going? Yeo will be

Nathan Cleary will again be a key factor in Penrith’s chances of the title . Picture: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

MUST COMPLETE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP

31 this year and while he’s showed no signs of slowing down, you have to wonder if the long, grueling seasons will take their toll.

Of course the reward for those long campaigns is multiple Premiership rings, and that brings us to the question asked about this Penrith team every year: How will they stay motivated?

The question, while still around, has faded in prominence somewhat this year because the Panthers have consistently answered that query over the past few years. They simply get better, and if not better, more confident in their systems and structure.

You don’t win four Premierships by chance. You don’t perform at such an elite level for such a long period of time thanks to pure luck. This systematic success, unprecedented in the NRL era, comes from hard work and dedication – and not a single Panther has been afraid to put that in during the Premiership run.

Ivan Cleary will be hoping the likes of Nathan Cleary, Yeo, Dylan Edwards, Moses Leota and Mitch Kenny can keep that culture alive.

Hoping that Liam Martin’s ability to find that extra bit of energy in last year’s Grand Final when it was needed most will rub off on some youngsters.

Because the reality is that if the standards slip, so do Penrith’s chances.

One significant x-factor this year could be the arrival of Isaiah Papali’i, who offers Penrith a mobile secondrow option they probably haven’t

had since Viliame Kikau was tearing up opposition players. That’s if he can find his Parramatta form from a few years ago. A fifth Premiership? Unthinkable, some may say, but those same people would have made that claim

about 2023, and even going back-toback in 2022. You write off Penrith at your peril, it’s that simple. And if you haven’t learned that yet, look in the mirror and I’ll show you a fool. This will be a difficult road, particularly given the travel challenges, but

if any team could meet those challenges head-on, it’s Penrith.

So let’s get to Sin City, let’s keep enjoying the ride, and let’s absolutely lap up the challenge of defending the title yet again – in the midst of an era none of us will ever forget.

Can Isaah Yeo keep performing at the top level? Photo: NRL Photos.

Liam Martin inspired his team in the Grand Final. Photo: NRL Photos.

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your season guide

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR YEAR AHEAD

Season 2025 is upon us. Here’s what to expect out of the new footy year...

Broadcast

There’s no major changes to broadcast arrangements in 2025. Channel Nine will continue as the major free-to-air partner, broadcasting games on Thursday night, Friday night and Sunday afternoon (and Saturday night in the latter part of the season). Nine has exclusive rights to the Grand Final and State of Origin series. Fox League and Kayo will broadcast every single game of the regular season and the Finals (excluding the Grand Final) live. On radio, games will be heard across 2GB, Triple M, ABC 702 and SEN. There’s a few personnel changes in this space – with Mark Geyer joining 2GB, and Ryan Girdler saying goodbye to Triple M, replaced by Nathan Hindmarsh.

Rule changes

Clubs have been advised that key areas of the game including the play-the-ball and 10-metre compliance would be monitored closely throughout the NRL and NRLW seasons. There has also been further clarity and guidelines provided for the handling of obstruction.

“The play-the-ball by the attacking team was one area that we needed to address, as well as 10-metre compliance by the defending team. Last season we saw too many examples of players not making a genuine attempt to play-

the-ball, so our match officials will be looking at that closely and we’ve also tweaked the way the referee will manage the 10 metres to ensure more consistency when defenders are allowed to advance,” said NRL Executive General Manager Elite Football, Graham Annesley.

Annesley said new guidelines on the interpretation of obstruction aim to achieve a better balance between rewarding the tactical use of lead-runners to deceive the defence, and ensuring defensive structures are afforded a fair opportunity to adjust, while also minimising the incentive for players to ‘play for’ (i.e. milk) penalties.

State of Origin series

The State of Origin series will kick off in Brisbane with game one on Wednesday, May 28 at 8.05pm. Perth hosts game two at 7.05pm on Wednesday, June 18 while game three will be held at Sydney’s Accor Stadium on Wednesday, July 9.

NRLW

and Lower Grades

The NRLW season will begin on Thursday, July 3 and will culminate on Telstra Premiership Grand Final Day. The NSW Cup kicks off on Saturday, March 8 when Penrith play Newtown at Parker Street Reserve. Jersey Flegg also kicks off on the same date.

Weekender coverage

The Western Weekender will once again produce its weekly rugby league pull-out, Extra Time. The first edition will be out on Thursday, February 27 ahead of the historic Las Vegas

games. It will then run weekly. All your favourites including Peter Lang, Masked Panther and more will be back – including our weekly Face in the Crowd and celebrity tipsters. In addition,

the Weekender will continue to present its Panthers podcast ‘Tension’s Running High’, out every Wednesday. Search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts.

Referee Belinda Sharpe. Picture: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

season draw

22

23

ANZACS REMEMBERED

Panthers will pay tribute to the ANZAC legacy with a brand new jersey that features Penrith’s Memory Park as its focus.

The NRL side will wear the jersey for their match against Manly on Saturday, April 26.

The jersey depicts the unique memorial sculpture at Memory Park, where the Penrith community gathers for the ANZAC Day Dawn Service. The sculpture represents the Navy, Army, Air Force and Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service, as well as the eternal flame.

The sculpture design stands before the rising sun and golden sky, a nod to the Dawn Services observed at Memory Park and across Australia and New Zealand. Also featured are a traditional poppy and sprig of rosemary above the Panthers emblem, the flags of Australia and New Zealand on the shoulders, and an inscription of The Ode of Remembrance on the lower back.

Penrith’s jersey range for 2025 is on sale now at the Panther Shop or online at www.penrithpanthers. com.au.

the players your 2025 penrith panthers

Penrith will field a hugely inexperienced side in this Friday night’s Pre-Season Challenge clash with

the

first grade squad already in

by

the

The game kicks off at 6pm Friday and is live on Kayo and Fox Sports.

In Penrith’s other pre-season fixture, Canberra emerged 22-16 winners in front of 1,724 fans at

Stadium. The Raiders skipped ahead in the second half before the Panthers made a late comeback and got within a converted try of

ling the green machine. David Fale, Samuel Lane and

scored tries for the Panthers, while Trent

landed two conversions.

Manly at Leichhardt Oval. With

Panthers’

Las Vegas

the time

game kicks off, the likes of Soni Luke, Preston Riki, Austin Dias and Harrison Hassett will be left to hold down the fort for the side.

Zack Lamont

Toelau

Bridget Bennett and her dance partner Jaxon Dunn.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

Homecoming for new health boss

ALLY HALL

The Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) is under new leadership as Chief Executive Brad Astill takes the wheel.

After working with NSW Health for over 40 years – most recently as Chief Executive at the Far West Local Health District based in Broken Hill – Astill’s enthusiasm for ensuring the best healthcare outcomes for the community has never wavered.

“Leading a health organisation is a huge responsibility which I don’t take for granted,” Astill said.

“I’m incredibly lucky to join the team here at NBMLHD who have built a reputation as an organisation committed to fostering a culture of compassion, collaboration and education, one that is embedded in the health services it provides.

“I look forward to working with our stakeholders and empowering our staff, patients, and consumers to continue to create responsive models of care that address the growing needs of our community and put us at the forefront of health care delivery.”

The new role isn’t all the leader is excited about, as his appointment

in the region also brings him home.

“I was born and bred in the western suburbs, so I know the area very well,” Astill explained.

“The western suburbs weren’t as big and busy as they are now, but it was certainly a great childhood.

“I grew up a bit west of Parramatta – between Parramatta and Penrith basically – and went to school in the area, all my family are in the area, and I got married in the area.”

On his stomping grounds, Astill will oversee a period of health transformation in the Nepean, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains and Lithgow regions.

“As the Nepean facility grows, we’ll not only be able to deliver more volume of services, but also more complex services, which is really exciting,” Astill said.

The Chief Executive outlined the importance of working closely with partners in the community to streamline patient health journeys.

“Whether it’s GPs or community staff that we employ or people that work for other agencies delivering services in the community, we’ll try and provide the best services for patients in the best settings,” Astill stated.

“Not everybody needs to come to hospital to have their healthcare needs serviced, so we need to

work much more closely with our community partners, so patients have a very seamless experience.”

To conclude, Astill noted a handful of his priorities moving forward.

“We’ve got the new facility on the Nepean campus, we welcome Hawkes bury, and we’re starting discussions about the Blue Mountains Hospi tal as well,” Astill said.

“There are no formal commit ments yet to rebuilding Blue Mountains Hospital, we are starting to look at what would be needed to keep providing services for communities of the mountains as well.

“It’s a growing area, growing community, growing population, and it’s really exciting.”

More pain for Mulgoa Road motorists

TROY DODDS

The exit out of Blaikie Road onto Mulgoa Road at Jamisontown will be blocked until Wednesday, March 5. Access was closed on Monday morning as work continues on the major Mulgoa Road upgrade.

Motorists are being urged to detour by continuing down Blaikie Road and then using Jamison Road to access Mulgoa Road. Additionally, the M4 eastbound and westbound ramps to Mulgoa Road, and one lane northbound on Mulgoa Road, will be closed from 5am Monday, March 3 to 5am Wednesday, March 5.

Drivers on the M4 are requested to use

Russell Street and The Northern Road ramps during this time.

“We assure the community that all efforts will be taken to minimise noise impacts during nightworks and thank them for their patience during this time,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.

Work over the coming days and weeks will include building the road surfaces around

Blaikie Road, utility and drainage work, cleaning and repairing existing stormwater pipes, road maintenance and surface work, preparing to switch over to newly installed utility services, removing the Wolseley Street island and restoring the site when work is finished.

Motorists are urged to download the Live Traffic NSW app for the latest updates.

Metro opening delayed

“Broken promise”: Vital transport link won’t carry passengers until at least 2027

TROY DODDS

Western Sydney International Airport is set to open without the $11 billion metro line connecting it with Sydney’s train network.

It means passengers will be forced to drive their car or catch buses once the airport opens in late 2026.

The 23-kilometre rail line between St Marys, Bradfield and the airport, will likely not carry passengers until April 2027.

The State Government says ongoing issues around industrial relations and supply issues stemming from the pandemic had forced the delay.

Business Western Sydney Executive Director, David Borger, said the delay wasn’t a major surprise.

“While it is a shame the Metro from Western Sydney International Airport to St Marys will open six months later, it’s hardly a surprise given recent construction and supply chain difficulties and the history of public transport projects in Sydney,” he said.

“While it would be fantastic to have planes and trains launching together, it’s time we stopped catastrophising small delays.

“Brisbane Airport opened in 1988, but its airport rail didn’t open until 2001. Perth’s airport rail only began in 2022.

“And the reasonable view from Sydney’s west is that we will still beat poor old Melbourne

Tullamarine – which started operations in 1970 and won’t have rail until 2029.

“Let’s not forget the St Marys Metro isn’t the only transport infrastructure needed around the new airport. We also need a rail link from Bradfield to Leppington, a Metro to Campbelltown and Macarthur, and electrification of the line to Wollondilly.”

Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh was less forgiving.

“Communities along the Metro line, including St Marys, Orchard Hills and Luddenham were promised a Metro line would open with the Airport and provide a vital public transport link to thousands of jobs at Bradfield City and the Airport,” she said.

“We need the Albanese Labor Government

to take some leadership on this issue. Half of the project cost is coming from the Commonwealth.

“The Federal government needs to call out this infrastructure failure of its NSW Labor mates and get the project back on track.

“This means the commitment to get the Metro operational on time is just another broken promise by the Albanese Labor Government.

“The Airport and its Metro were Coalition government visions and commitments.

“We know Labor has never fully supported Western Sydney Airport. But Labor is in government and must put the success of Western Sydney Airport at the top of the priority list.”

Brad Astill is the new CEO of the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District.

Keep Levi smiling: How you can help little legend

Alittle boy with Leukemia hasn’t lost his smile, and friends and family are ensuring he keeps it for good.

Levi Wilkinson was diagnosed with cancer in November last year, the same year he started playing rugby league for the Penrith Waratahs JRLC in the Under-5’s.

To raise money for Levi’s family, the club will host a Colour Run on February 22 and continue fundraising efforts throughout the season.

“During March, I think we’ll have three trial matches at our home fields, and we’re looking at doing a cake stall, putting some colour spray into kids’ hair, and doing temporary tattoos, and all money raised will be going to Levi’s family,” said the club’s fundraising coordinator Sarah Smith.

“He’s always got a happy smile on his face, he’s the happiest little boy.”

Levi’s family are incredibly appreciative of the club’s support.

“To see that there are people who don’t even know us or weren’t in the team with him last year coming forward and supporting and being a part of this makes me really happy,” said Levi’s mum, Bianca Lowe.

Levi is in good spirits after just finishing his second cycle of chemotherapy, but he now spends around 70 per cent of his time in a wheelchair.

“The chemotherapy has reduced all his muscle capacity, so he hasn’t been able to walk,” Lowe explained.

“But, in saying that, with the chemo slowing down at the moment, it’s slowly coming back; it comes and goes depending on the different types of treatment.”

The family have embarked on a two-year treatment plan, hoping to see Levi cured by November 5, 2026.

In the meantime, the Penrith family of five are doing it tough, with their dual

income impacted as pressure builds.

“We both had our own companies, I’m a hairdresser and I’ve had to stop my home business, and my partner has a glazing company,” Lowe stated.

“At the moment, he tries to work up to three days a week so we can get some money… The crisis isn’t slowing down, but our lives are.”

It’s Levi’s cheeky grin that

keeps his parents going, despite his disappointment about not being out on the field.

“It makes him really sad that he can’t walk and he can’t play football,” Lowe said with a tight throat.

“All he wants to do is get back out on the field and play with his friends.”

The family are hoping to organise a meeting with Levi’s hero, Nathan Cleary, to make his smile even brighter.

“If he got to see the one person that really inspired him to have fun out on the field, it would make this hard journey a little bit more endurable,” Lowe said.

To support the family, grab a ticket for the Penrith Waratahs Colour Run for $25 and head to Doug Rennie Oval in Kingswood from 4pm to 6pm on Saturday, February 22. Family discounts are available for tickets, and each one includes a headband and sunglasses. Find out more on the Penrith Waratahs JRLC Facebook page.

Breakfast with Ron Wilson 5:30am - 9am

Levi in hospital.

Levi doing what he loves.

ALLY HALL

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Staying Safe

We

From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

or

Psalms 91 tells us that when we turn to wings” and that we “shall not fear” no matter what our circumstance.

Scriptures found this to be

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

I’m not about to present you with a “back in my day” column about keeping doors unlocked and playing cricket in the street until the lights came on, but I have to admit it’ll come pretty close.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the generation of teenagers living life today, and more specifically about youth crime.

Much of those thoughts have been prompted by the death of pizza shop owner Sonmez Alagoz at Kingswood earlier this month. Allegedly stabbed by a teenager while just doing his best in the business he’s owned for many years.

The boy charged with his murder is just 15-years-old.

Also questioned by police over the matter were another 15-year-old, a 17-year-old, two 13-year-old girls and then two men aged 18 and 19. No charges have been laid against any of these people.

And yes, you read that right: 13-year-old girls, somehow caught up in all of this.

None of this should surprise though, because reports about young people involved in serious crimes is a pretty common occurrence.

Back on February 4, an 11-year-old boy was charged in regional NSW with ‘post and boast’ offences as well as ‘aggravated break and enter’ and ‘commit serious indictable offence – armed’, among others.

Two 13-year-old boys and a 14-year-old girl were also charged as part of that incident, where a 70-year-old woman had her home broken into and her car stolen.

A 15-year-old boy and two 13-year-old boys are also facing charges over the death of a man in Shellharbour back in January.

A 13-year-old was arrested in Kempsey last week after stealing a car and failing to stop when police tried to pull him over.

That’s just a handful, but there’s countless other examples that could fill this column 10 times over.

This is a particularly significant issue in regional New South Wales, and while it has attracted media attention here and there over the last few years, there’s no doubt we in the city don’t understand the enormity of the problem.

INDEX

However, one suspects we’re about to. We’re experiencing it more and more in suburban Sydney, and everyone seems at a loss when it comes to fixing it.

And everyone has a theory, too.

A school system that went off the rails, not teaching the right things.

A lack of discipline, as traditional methods of addressing bad behaviour in kids became more and more of a no-no.

Social media, which I think we can now all admit has probably brought us more bad than good since its inception.

A legal system that too often preferences a slap on the wrist over serious punishment.

All of the above probably does play a part in some cases, though in others it does not.

“Handing out hugs instead of real punishments is not the answer”

I’m not really a fan of the generic “where were the parents” line that gets thrown around when we hear a serious crime has been committed by a young teenager.

I’ve had friends have kids go completely off the rails, and their parenting was no different to how they’ve handled their other kids in the same household.

Sometimes, the parents just lose control through no fault of their own.

One thing that is certain is that we need to ensure punishments are serious, and that if kids want to be big heroes by committing crimes we would usually attribute to wayward adults, then perhaps we need to treat them as such.

Certainly, we shouldn’t be going the other way.

But there certainly groups who want that to be the case.

Take for example the group Raise The Age, which is angry that children as young as 10 could be sent to prison in New South Wales.

“That is too young”, it declares on the front page of its website.

I nearly spat out my Corn Flakes when I heard their radio ad last week.

According to its website, Raise the Age NSW “is led by a group of 13 trusted, connected, and influential organisations”.

Some of those organisations include the NSW Teachers Federation, the Australian Services Union, Community Legal Services NSW and the Aboriginal Legal Service. They want the age of criminal responsibility in New South Wales raised from 10 to 14. That’s right, this loopy organisation wants to ignore the stories I mentioned earlier in this piece about 11-year-olds and 13-yearolds terrorising people and causing serious crimes.

It wants to give them a cuddle and say ‘play on’ instead, though this is of course presented as advocacy, via calls for more resources and investment.

I’m sure this organisation would say I don’t understand the problem, particularly in disadvantaged communities, but I’d argue the opposite is true.

For too many years we have eased up on discipline and punishments, and too many kids are having no second thoughts about stealing a car, assaulting someone or worse. Many kids involved in sketchy behaviour will grow out of it. They’re perhaps around the wrong people at the wrong time of their life. Perhaps a job, or an individual, will be what gets them out of the rut.

But too many are going on to commit more crime. Kid criminals becoming adult criminals and the crimes they’re committing worse.

I have no idea what the answer is, but I certainly know raising the age of criminal responsibility or handing out hugs instead of real punishments ain’t it.

Youth crime, my friends, is about to be the big issue of this country – you can bet on it. A summit is needed with real solutions at its core. Not pats on the back for gathering in a conference room somewhere. But one that delivers legitimate outcomes to tackle what will become a national scourge.

Faith is what fuels Penrith resident Helen Jones-Dwyer despite years of ill health, and now a glimmer of hope is on the horizon with a new treatment.

After battling bowel cancer in 2000 and learning how to live with a colostomy bag, constant bowel obstructions, strict dietary restrictions and pain, Jones-Dwyer is facing a new challenge

“Now I’m fighting triple-negative breast cancer,” Jones-Dwyer said.

“The cancer has spread to both of my lungs, my liver, and it’s come back into my chest, so I now have sores on my chest, which is the cancer coming out.”

Efforts were made to treat the disease with chemotherapy and radiation, but her body was too weak, so she had to find another way.

She’s now seeing a doctor for Vitamin C injections in St Leonards.

“With the Vitamin C, my friend said he had five different cancers in his body at the same time in five different places, and he is now 99.9 per cent clear,” Jones-Dwyer explained.

“They’ve only given me months to live, but I don’t believe that; I believe I’m going to live, I believe in this Vitamin C, and I believe in God.”

The matriarch has immense support from family and friends, one of which set up a GoFundMe to raise money for the injections, and it’s already exceeded the $10,000 goal.

“It makes me feel very loved, very appreciated, and it brought tears to my eyes,” Jones-Dwyer said.

“I just cried, and I thanked God for it, and I thanked God for all the people who have contributed to it. It makes me feel like people want me to live.”

Most of her family lives in Wollongong, but that doesn’t stop them from surrounding her with love.

“My granddaughter lives three hours away, but she comes to see me every Friday,” Jones-Dwyer explained.

“My other grandchildren that are down in Wollongong sometimes come and pick me up and take me down for the weekend.” Now, they’re planning a family trip for her.

“My son has a big house down at Lake Illawarra and a big backyard, and I’ve got a lot of grandchildren and a lot of great-grandchildren, so I said we should put some tents up in the backyard and we’ll have a campout – but I’ll stay in the house,” Jones-Dwyer said.

You can contribute to Jones-Dwyer’s health journey by donating online at https:// www.gofundme.com/f/help-needed-tostop-cancer-and-to-bring-hope.

Helen Jones-Dwyer.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Colyton: Illegal fire leads to police officer assault

A man burning material containing asbestos has resisted arrest.

On Sunday, February 16 a 48-year-old Colyton man was burning household material which is alleged to contain asbestos in the backyard of his property on Bentley Street, Colyton.

At 7.00pm that evening a fire crew from St Marys Fire Station attended the address and observed the fire to not be within the authorised parameters of a recreational fire. The fire crew spoke with the 48-year-old where he debated the fire rules. The fire crew told the man that he would need to extinguish the fire.

The 48-year-old became angry and prevented the fire crew from entering his backyard, forcefully pushing one of the fire officers in the shoulders.

The fire crew retreated from the property and called police.

Police attended the scene and spoke with the man telling him that he was under arrest for assaulting the fire officer.

The 48-year-old became angry and resisted arrest during which the man punched a police officer twice in the face and another officer once in the eye.

The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged. The man will appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, March 4.

Penrith: Two men assault police after drunken night

Two men will appear in court after refusing to leave a licenced venue and assaulting police.

On Saturday, February 15 a 43-year-old Umina Beach man and a 39-year-old St Helens Park man were drinking at a licenced premises in Penrith.

As they continued drinking, both men became belligerent and began to behave disorderly, trying to fight other patrons.

At 11.00pm that night the staff approached the two men and asked them to leave the premises. Both men refused to leave and began to argue with staff becoming increasingly aggressive and agitated.

The 43-year-old assaulted a security guard by punching him several times in the face and kicking him in the jaw causing significant injuries. Police were contacted and arrived a short time later.

The 43-year-old resisted arrest and lashed out towards police, kicking one officer in the knee.

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

The other man also resisted arrest. Both men were eventually arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station.

While in custody, both men again assaulted police.

Both men were charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, April 8.

Emu Plains: Copper thief caught by police

At 3.00am on Tuesday, February 11 a 45-year-old Penrith man attended a business on Railway Street, Emu Plains.

The man scaled the fence and entered the enclosed courtyard.

The man removed numerous lengths of copper form a storage cage and threw it back over the fence. The man climbed back over the fence and began loading the copper into his car.

Patrolling police saw the man loading the copper into his car and stopped to speak with him.

The man was arrested and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, March 28.

Cambridge Park: Topless woman assaults police

A topless woman who resisted arrest and spat at police was found to have drugs in her underwear.

At 3.38pm on Thursday, February 13 police were patrolling Oxford Street in Cambridge Park after reports of a topless woman at the shops.

Police spotted the 25-year-old Penrith woman who appeared to be under the effect of drugs.

The woman entered a car and started travelling along Oxford Street. Police activated their warning lights and pulled the vehicle over. Police had probable cause to search the woman and asked her to step out of the car.

As the woman exited the car, she elbowed one of the police officers in the chest and smashed a soft drink can into the face of another officer, causing both officers to suffer injuries.

Police took hold of the woman who began to violently resist arrest and continually spat towards police.

After she was arrested, the woman began to verbally threaten police saying she was going to kill them while also kicking at them.

The woman was searched and police found prohibited drugs in her underwear.

The woman was taken to Penrith Police Station where she was bail refused.

She was due to appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, February 18.

WITH DANIEL MCKINNON

DUE DILIGENCE ON BUYING PROPERTY

A number of our columns in recent times have been focused on the kind of due diligence you need to do if you are purchasing a property.

We conduct hundreds of conveyancing transactions each year.

Whether we are acting for first home purchasers buying a small unit to get into the market or established purchasers buying their dream home there are all sorts of things that you need to be aware of when buying a property.

As a result of a decade and a half of handling property transactions in the Penrith LGA we know exactly what to look for.

For example, if you are purchasing acreage in areas like Castlereagh, zoning and in particular permitted land uses are critically important. Most of the properties in that area are required to be no less than five acres and cannot be subdivided into smaller lots on which additional houses can be built. There are flood related development controls in place which limit the ability or manner in which land can be developed and in particular new development can be achieved depending on the relevant flood planning level of the property.

The other alluring feature of properties of this size is that people who run businesses with large machinery like trucks consider them suitable as they can store their trucks on site (in theory). Storing items on a property in this area is one thing, but using the property for commercial purposes is another and it is critically important that you know the difference and what you can and cannot use your land for.

Clearing of vegetation is also a problem area in not only the Penrith LGA but in the Blue Mountains LGA.

Depending on the zoning of your land, there are significant restrictions on your ability to clear land.

This is particularly the case if your land contains protected plant life like Cumberland Plain Woodland or has a rural or environmentally sensitive zoning.

Even in the middle of Penrith there are things to think about. Surveyors Creek runs straight through the middle of South Penrith and is adjacent to the industrial precinct near Batt Street. This means that a number of the industrial properties in this area are subject to flood related development controls and captured by Section 3.5 of the Penrith DCP notwithstanding that they are a significant distance from the river.

The development and zoning landscape in Penrith is also currently in a state of flux.

We have previously untouched land adjacent to the Regatta Centre that has a tourism zoning that will likely see parts of that land developed in a really unique way.

Higher density zoning is slowly spreading its tentacles into the residential streets adjoining the CBD which will no doubt result in more apartment blocks as Penrith transitions over the next decade or so to have a more densely populated CBD – Thornton on the northern side of the railway line is a great example of this.

In the next decade the rolling paddocks and market gardens of parts of Orchard Hills will make way for low to medium density residential development to complement the construction of the Kent Road Metro Station and associated airport trainlines.

It is an extremely exciting time to watch our city begin to transform, and with that comes a need to be prudent in your due diligence with respect to any property acquisition.

CANNABIS FOUND DURING POLICE STOP

At 12.35am on Friday, February 14 police were conducting stationary speed enforcement on the M4 Motorway at Orchard Hills.

Police saw a black Nissan Navara driving at 130km/h going west on the motorway.

Police caught up with the car and activated their warning devices, directing the man to stop. The 60-year-old Wellington man disobeyed the direction to stop and continued further down the Motorway before stopping.

As police were speaking with the man, they could smell cannabis from the car and could

see chopped up cannabis in a bowl. The man’s passenger, a 30-year-old Wellington man, admitted that the cannabis was his. Police saw there was also a three-year-old child in the back seat of the car who was not restrained properly.

While waiting for further police to arrive at the scene, the 60-year-old drove away from the scene, accelerating at speed before police again caught up with him.

Both the driver and passenger were charged.

RBA delivers some relief

Local mortgage holders to save about $100 per month after interest rates are cut

TROY DODDS

Penrith mortgage holders will have a little extra money in their pocket after the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) cut interest rates by 0.25 per cent on Tuesday.

It’s a massive sigh of relief for local mortgage holders who have dealt with multiple rate rises and cost-of-living increases in recent years.

It’s also a win for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, with the rate cut likely to work in his favour ahead of an election.

The official cash rate now sits at 4.10 per cent.

Executive Director of Business Western Sydney, David Borger, said it was good news for western Sydney locals.

“Studies consistently show it is homeowners in areas like western Sydney and south western Sydney who are most leveraged and subject to mortgage stress,” he said.

“Our pedestrian malls and suburban shopping strips are doing it tough. Retail and hospitality can’t seem to catch a break. An interest rate cut will help to increase that foot

traffic and get people spending again. Western Sydney is ready for some relief.”

Graham Cooke, Head of Consumer Research at Finder, said it was welcome news to mort-

Election switch to avoid Easter

The State Government will shift the 2027 State Election two weeks earlier than scheduled to avoid a clash with Easter.

The next election is due to fall on March 27, 2027, the end of the Government’s four-year term. However, this date coincides with the Easter public holiday weekend.

The government is moving to bring the election forward to March 13, 2027.

To bring forward the election date, the Constitution Act 1902 (NSW) permits the Governor to dissolve the Legislative Assembly up to two months prior to the end of its fixed four-year term if the election would otherwise clash with a public holiday.

The NSW Electoral Commission and State Opposition have been consulted over the date change.

“Bringing the NSW election forward two weeks is a commonsense move. With so many people away on holiday, asking voters to get to polling booths over the Easter long weekend would create a logistical challenge for voters, but also a significant operational challenges for the NSW Electoral Commission in conducting the election,” said Special Minister of State, John Graham.

“There is no politics in this decision, it is a simple matter of reviewing where dates fall and what is a feasible and legal solution to working around the Easter break and public holiday period.”

Meanwhile, there’s still no word on a date for the Federal Election, which will be held at some point in the coming months.

There’s strong speculation that a mid-April election is likely.

gage holders across the country.

“With a record number of households in financial distress, many will be breathing a heavy sigh of relief,” he said.

“Now is the time to take action and review your home loan. After this rate cut, if your interest rate doesn’t start with a 5 – you’re paying too much.”

Aussies with the average home loan of $641,416 will save over $100 per month, if their bank/lender passes on the full 25 basis points rate cut.

These Australians would see their mortgage drop from $3,887 per month to $3,784 (a saving of $103).

Westpac announced within seconds of the RBA’s decision on Tuesday that it would cut its variable rates by 0.25 per cent, with most banks following suit. Some smaller lenders were still holding out.

The RBA Board said inflation had fallen substantially since 2022, forming part of the decision to cut rates on Tuesday.

“There has also been continued subdued growth in private demand and wage pressures have eased,” it said in a statement.

“These factors give the Board more confidence that inflation is moving sustainably towards the midpoint of the two to three per cent target range.”

Cop gambled with seized money

ALEX MITCHELL, AAP

Apolice officer stole more than $200,000 cash seized as evidence to fund a gambling habit and credit card debt.

Tracey Lee Butler, 58, got away with stealing from her western Sydney police station for nearly five years with her colleagues failing to carry out regular audits.

But Butler, who was formerly a senior constable who managed evidence at the Mount Druitt Police Station, will now spend at least the next 18 months behind bars.

Her downfall began in 2021 when police could not track down $18,000 due to be

returned to an accused person who was entitled to his cash back, with official records showing no record of the money.

A wider search found a number cash exhibits were not accounted for.

Butler pleaded guilty to an act of wilful misconduct as a holder of public office, admitting she’d stolen $209,730 from more than 43 evidence bags between 2017 and 2022.

When arrested at St Marys Leagues Club in November 2022, she denied any involvement in the offending and told police: “Who me? I don’t know anything about that”.

Judge Guy Newton noted it was standard across NSW for police stations to audit their cash evidence on a monthly by a supervising duty officer, but that had not been done.

“Any audits carried out during the offender’s tenure in the exhibits office were carried out by her … no duty officer or supervisor was ever physically present during the audits,” he said.

Judge Newton found Butler was stealing to fund a spiralling gambling habit and pay off debts, with her bank accounts overdrawn almost every month.

She was found to have lost $170,000 gambling during the period of her offending.

Her lawyers had posted the emotional harm and loss experienced as a result of her offending was limited, and that she was not fully aware of the consequences of her actions.

“It could be said the offender opportunistically took advantage of deficiencies in the system… in the expectation she would not be caught,” he said.

“Rather than faithfully executing her duties, she stole a large amount of money.”

The judge imposed a two-year, seven-month sentence with a non-parole period of 18 months. Butler had been a police officer for 22 years before her arrest.

Following her arrest, the senior constable’s employment was suspended without pay.

In November 2023, Butler was removed from the police force under special powers held by the commissioner.

Judge Newton dismissed those arguments and added the failure of other police to carry out audits of the evidence did not limit her culpability.

The RBA cut interest rates on Tuesday in a win for local mortgage holders.

Special Minister of State, John Graham.

News

Contact Us

Administration

Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at

Services 4732 7777

Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

3 March 2025 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting)

31 March 2025 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via

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Council Briefs

● people and Penrith City Council’s Local Celebration Awards are an opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate these people in our community. We’re calling for nominations for our Citizen of the Year Award. Do you know someone who commitment to a cause, or been involved in activities that have improved the lives of people in our community. This is your chance to shine a light on them. Give them the recognition they deserve by nominating them for the 2025 Local Celebration Awards. Find out more about the award program and how to nominate at:

● catchment which includes parts of Claremont Meadows, Orchard Hills, Caddens and Kingswood. We’re calling on property owners within the catchment to at before 5pm, Thursday 6 March 2025. The feedback received will help us

● Do you have old, broken, and unwanted electronic items? Pack them into the boot of your car or trailer and bring them to our free e-waste drop-off event on Saturday 8 March at The Kingsway Playing Fields car park in Werrington between 9am-3.30pm.

Find out more at

● Upgrades to the Jamison Park Netball Courts are now complete! 23 courts have been resurfaced to improve playing conditions and reduce water pooling, allowing players to return to the courts more quickly after wet weather. In addition, drainage around the courts has been improved with upgrades to surrounding swales to better direct rainfall into the stormwater system.

This project was co-funded by the Australian Government through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program and by Penrith City Council.

For more information go to

Development Applications

The following Development Applications have been received by Council:

• The Trustee for SHMH Penrith Property Trust DA25/0059 164 Station Street, Penrith

Staged Concept Master Plan – 10 Stage Mixed-Use Development comprising 1,995 residential apartments; hotel and commercial uses; above ground and basement car parking; 10 to 20-storey building heights and related infrastructure including access roads, public open space and landscaping

Contact: Wendy Connell on 4732 7908

Closing Date: Friday 14 March 2025

DA24/0911

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 6 townhouses

Contact: Jodie Schembri on 4732 7449

Closing Date: Sunday 9 March 2025

Development Consent/s Determined

Pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the schedule below lists application recently determined by Penrith City Council.

• Cityscape Planning & Projects

DA24/0426

Torrens Title subdivision into 2 lots with 1 battle axe handle access, removal of 8 trees, planting of 17 new trees, removal of existing on site sewerage management system and installation of new aerated waste management systems

Integrated Development

Penrith City Council have received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council.

• Tier Architects Pty Ltd DA25/0034 Lot 30 DP 258414, Lot 31 DP 258414, Lot 32 DP 258414, Lot 33

Integrated Development for bulk earthworks, including cut and and Torrens title subdivision to create 8 lots and 4 residue environmental lots. site includes 871–883, 859–869, 885–899, 901, and 917 Mamre Road

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the: Endeavour Energy, Transport for NSW. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at 24 February 2025 to Sunday 9 March 2025.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, submission is to include Council’s reference number DA25/0034.

Please contact Robert Walker on 4732 7409.

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit

• NF Billyard Pty Ltd

cupboard prize

Find anything, anywhere!

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With the moto tag, you no longer need to worry about losing lunch bags, school bags, laptop bags, gym bags – or any other bags that tend to go missing! Compatible with a wide range of accessories readily available, the moto tag can even be attached to bikes, keyrings, and remote controls.

The moto tags are available in Jade Green and Starlight Blue. Sold separately or in a four-pack. RRP is $55 for a single pack, or $179 for a four-pack.

The Weekender has four moto

tag (singles) to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Moto’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, March 14 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

paceway winners lucky

Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender Club members can pick up a free specially numbered

bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-

way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0664, 0768, 1020.

Tell us exactly where this week’s featured I Spy image is located in Penrith and you could win! Email competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with your answer for your chance to win two movie tickets. Our winner will be notified by email. Entries close each Wednesday at 5pm.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The giant yellow art installation is located at the brand-new Gipps Street Recreation Precinct in Claremont Meadows. Have you see this while out and about getting fit?

The never-ending train dispute in New South Wales. Chris Minns is losing more and more control of the situation and his reputation as a leader is suffering.

Are Penrith swimming holes safe or a death trap in waiting?

In the wake of a man and young child both drowning in Penrith watering holes over summer, experts are warning why it can be dangerous to swim in such locations.

In November last year, a 68-yearold man jumped into Nortons Basin to retrieve his fishing rod. The man was retrieved deceased from the river the next day by police divers.

Earlier this month a five-year-old boy was pulled from the water unconscious at Bents Basin. The boy was treated at the scene before being taking to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition, where he later died.

Western Sydney University Associate Professor of Environmental Science Ian Wright explained that swimming in natural bodies of water is inherently hazardous but there are ways to mitigate the risk.

“The Hawkesbury and the Nepean are high drowning rivers and because we are moving from February into March, this is a peak swimming time, and it is peak drowning time,” Wright said.

“Avoid alcohol. Look for a place that is safe to get in and out. Look for an area that is frequented by others.

“Look that there is no major current, there is no obvious sign of submerged rocks or objects that you could hit your head on or get entangled with.”

Hazards in rivers can be anything from obscured objects under the water to lack of information, particularly with the Nepean River.

“Just being able to safely get in and out is important, quite a lot of people drown when they accidentally fall into the water and they can’t get out, you can imagine a steep slope or perhaps they can’t get up the bank,” Wright said.

“Thinking of the Nepean River… it has a fast-flowing current and has submerged objects. The river is often discoloured, and you can’t see what lies below the surface.

“Quite a few of the drownings are associated with jumping into the water and hitting a concrete block or rocks.

“Even weed [is a hazard], I’ve swum in the Nepean in the Penrith area and I’m a good swimmer and I have had my arms and legs caught up in water weed.”

The Royal Lifesaving Annual Drowning Report for 2023-2024 revealed that 323 people drowned in Australian waterways in a 12 month period, which is an increase of 16 per cent from the previous year. 25 per cent of those drownings were in a river or creek and 33 per cent were from swimming and recreating. With the number of drownings increasing Wright acknowledged that the majority of the drownings were male.

“In the drowning report, 82 per cent of those 323 drownings were male, it is a truly sexist trend,”

Wright said.

“What is going on here? A lot of it is being able to assess risks and take appropriate action.”

One of the biggest ways to mitigate drownings according to Wright is access to information on river safety.

“Having things like information on where to swim, things like life

buoys so if someone is having trouble they can be thrown out and another thing for swimming spots is having a defibrillator and ensuring people that frequent have training in first aid, resuscitation and using the defibrillator,” Wright said.

“Swimming is dangerous, it can and should be done in a safe way.”

For more info, visit www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/water-activities/rivers-lakes-lagoons.

YOUR SNEAK PEEK INSIDE THE FUTURE OF SYDNEY'S WATER

Did you know that 85% of our drinking water supply relies on the rain?

At Sydney Wate r, we are exploring ways to be less reliant on rain.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tours run for 1 hour at 10.00am or 11:30am It’s free!

240 Quakers Road, Quakers Hill NSW 2763

Spaces are limitedBookings are essential

HOW TO BOOK

Register your interest by emailing PRWDiscoveryCentre@ sydneywater.com.au

Can’t make a Saturday?

We also run free tours during the week, email us to find out more!

We have built NSW’s first Purified Recycled Water (PRW) Discovery Centre at Quakers Hill –and you’re invited to visit!

On Saturday March 1, the Sydney Water Education Team will be guiding visitors through the PRW Discovery Centre.

The tours are open to all ages.

This FREE learning experience provides an opportunity to explore water management over time and see how purified recycled water treatment technology works by touring our working demonstration plant.

Associate Professor, Ian Wright.

Bents Basin can be deadly. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Infamous shopping strip

Kingswood or Kingswouldn’t? Calls for greater police presence in wake of fatal

ALLY HALL

When the moon rises above Kingswood’s notorious shopping strip on the Great Western Highway, no one wants to be outside – fearing the repercussions of an interaction with someone looking for trouble.

The death of pizza shop owner Sonmez Alagoz – known to the local business community as John – has prompted questions about the strip of shops that many locals avoid.

Alagoz was fatally stabbed just after 10pm on Tuesday, February 4 and later died. A teenager has been charged with his murder.

An anonymous local worker, who chose to hide her identity to protect her workplace, said the street never felt safe.

“Sometimes people come to the front of the store at night and shout. They steal cans from the fridge and run away,” she explained, somewhat reluctantly.

“Police do patrol at night, but the area doesn’t feel safe.”

Another anonymous business owner said the tragic death of The Pizza Stop owner has impacted her business.

“We open very early, and people are too scared to come,” she said while working behind the counter.

“There needs to be a change, and we need a bigger police presence. I’m a new business

owner and this is something I haven’t seen in other areas.”

For stores that close at 5pm, it’s business as usual, but workers attribute that to their daytime opening hours.

“During the day it’s OK,” Shai from AllFish2U stated.

“But it’s definitely a scary situation being only five doors down, it could’ve happened to anyone.”

Joh from Kingswood Florist shared Shai’s

sentiment, explaining the store no longer extends its hours for special occasions.

“We used to do that on Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day many years ago until one day there was a group of drunk people that came from the hotel, after that I said we’re not doing night-time hours anymore,” Joh explained.

“Once the sun goes down, 5 o’clock, we’re gone.”

Following an enquiry about the cracks in her storefront window, the florist told the

The shopping strip in Kingswood. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Shai from AllFish2U. Photo: Melinda Jane.

must be cleaned up now

stabbing that claimed the life of a beloved pizza shop owner earlier this month

Weekender there should be a bigger police presence.

“That’s the third attempt, now I leave it there,” she said.

“I find that when you get it fixed, someone will smash it again, so I just leave it smashed.”

Ben from Action Communications, a CB radio store neighbouring The Pizza Stop, explained there’s always been stigma attached to Kingswood.

“We’ve always had a degree of trouble

because we’re in a low socio-economic area and we have a pharmacy that dispenses methadone and we have a drug and alcohol clinic at the end of the street,” Ben said.

“A lot of the issues aren’t caused by people who live here, they’re people who visit here. It attracts a certain clientele.”

Ben’s been at the Kingswood business for 28 years and believes it’s time young offenders get more than a slap on the wrist.

“I have five children, they all know that was

wrong, and none of them would’ve done that,” he declared.

The suburb’s questionable reputation hasn’t impacted everyone; Dee from Country Brewer explained there’s trouble everywhere, not just in Kingswood.

“I knew the family and I’m shaken by the tragedy,” Dee began.

“I’ve never felt in danger, and I’ve lived here for 13 years.”

Kingswood’s housing market is also unaffected, according to Glenmore Park Realty Sales Consultant Ralph Saporito.

“We haven’t had a problem selling what we have there,” Saporito explained.

“We had a property in Kingswood on the weekend and it sold at the first open home.”

A NSW Police spokesperson said Nepean Police Area Command reviews instances of crime on an ongoing basis and in line with community needs.

“Police are tasked to complete high visibility patrols in addition to responding to calls for service in identified areas based on this ongoing review,” the spokesperson stated.

“In addition, members of the Command work closely with the local community to prevent crime and address community safety through joint initiatives and collaboration.”

But after years of locals avoiding their own shops, and business owners fearing trouble, perhaps it’s time for a re-think on what the future holds for this row of shops.

A floral memorial at The Pizza Stop. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Joh from Kingswod Florist.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Stars of Penrith set to dance up a storm

Stars from across Penrith are putting on their dancing shoes and raising money for a good cause.

With just four weeks left before the second annual Stars of Penrith event, 10 Penrith Stars are rehearsing their routines and asking for the community’s help to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

Penrith Panthers Leagues Club will be rocking on Friday, March 21 as the stars perform an array of different dance styles alongside a silent auction and raffle.

This year’s stars include Michelle Caddell dancing Irish style, Michelle Garvey taking on hip hop, Richard Mills trying his hand at disco, Kristian Storek will be electrifying in roller skates, Mark Webster will be dancing in a cheerleading style, Julie Sheldrake will perform a salsa/samba fusion, Nathan Cassar trying ballroom, Kimberley Stapley taking on lyrical style and Lily Gubbay dancing Bollywood style.

Cancer Council Community Fundraising Coordinator Bobbie

Crosland said the event is an amazing way to support cancer research.

“It’s a high energy dance spectacular where we wanted to bring the local community of Penrith together to raise some much-needed funds for the Cancer Council,” Crosland said.

“All these funds get put towards prevention, advocacy, world class research and support services to help those affected by cancer in the local community.”

This year the fundraising goal has risen to $150,000 after the community raised $140,000 at last year’s event, smashing the initial goal.

“Every dollar counts and whether you are donating to a star in particular or just donating to the event as a whole we are really asking the community to get behind us,” Crosland said.

“You can either sponsor, donate or supply a prize for our raffle and silent auction that we hold on the night. Our stars are doing such an amazing job… everyone is working really hard. This select group of 10 stars are really working together and helping each other to reach

the goal. It’s really nice to see them coming together.”

One star, Bridget Bennett, is a radiation therapist at Nepean Cancer Care Centre and sees every day how the Cancer Council helps people in a time of need.

“I get to witness on a daily basis all of the work that the Cancer Council does for our patients, we see them here supporting our patients and their family members,” Bennett said.

“Because I have a career in cancer treatment, I also understand the importance of research to one day finding a cure.”

Bennett is not a dancer but is excited to get out there and perform with her partner Jaxon Dunn.

“The dancing itself has been a lot of fun. My partner Jaxon is really great, he is super patient because it takes me a while to learn everything, but it has been so much fun,” Bennett said.

“As nervous as I will be on the night I’m actually super excited.”

For more information about the event or to donate visit www.stars. cancercouncil.com.au/event/ stars-of-penrith/home.

Bridget Bennett and her dance partner Jaxon Dunn. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Young people urged to help shape future of Penrith

Council is calling for young people in Penrith to help shape the future of youth engagement.

Council is encouraging passionate young people to apply.

Penrith City Council is calling on passionate young people in Penrith to have an active role in shaping the future of youth engagement and leadership.

It is an opportunity for people aged 15 to 20-years-old to join the Youth Leadership Team for the Youth-Led Action Plan 20252030.

The Youth Led Action Plan represents a new approach to youth involvement in decision-making, emphasising youth leadership, real-time engagement and highlighting the diverse perspectives of young people across Penrith.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said that

“This is a fantastic opportunity to be at the forefront of an innovative youth-led initiative,” Carney said.

The Youth Leadership Team will play a key role in leading initiatives, shaping ideas and providing valuable insights to guide the implementation of the new Youth-Led Action Plan.

They will be responsible for planning activities like workshops, events, social media campaigns and peer outreach programs.

To apply to join the Youth Leadership Team fill out an expression of interest form at www. yoursaypenrith.com.au/YAP#.

Applications are open until Friday, February 28 at 5.00pm.

The Glenmore Park Probus Club has been around for two decades, and it’s time to celebrate!

The club’s president Barbara Davis has been part of the organisation for eight years, and she said it’s been life changing and become so important to her.

“My husband and I came from England 10 years ago, and when you’re in this age group it’s really difficult to

make new friends,” Davis explained.

“It’s okay for youngsters who have children at school because they can meet other parents, but when you’re older, it’s really difficult.

“Probus has been a lifesaver really, we’ve made so many friends, it’s amazing.”

Forging lasting friendships and getting out of the house is what it’s all about.

“We go out every week, there’s always something going on,” Davis stated.

“We’re not sitting indoors in front of the TV all day or

sitting in the garden, we’re getting out and making connections with other people and I think that’s keeping people’s minds active as well as their bodies.”

The group has a meeting every month, but also catch up frequently for coffee, day trips, and longer trips to places like the Snowy Mountains, Norfolk Island, and Fraser Island.

The 20th birthday was officially celebrated on Wednesday, February 19, at

Penrith RSL.

Carole, Barbara and Kay at Wednesday’s celebration. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Drones change fire game

How Fire and Rescue NSW is leading the world in new tech to fight dangerous fires

Drones are making the way fires are fought safer for those risking their lives to put the blazes out.

Two weeks ago, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) attended Cleanaway Liquid Waste Services on Christie Street in St Marys after a major fire broke out.

Over 100 firefighters in 20 fire trucks successfully contained the blaze after hours of work.

To help with the firefighting efforts FRNSW deployed a fleet of specialised drones to assist firefighters with operational awareness, safety and runoff containment.

Russell Turner is the Team leader of Aviation for FRNSW and explained how the drones were used to contain the St Marys fire.

“What we did was deploy five drones quickly across the whole fire ground,” he said.

“Three of those drones were providing livestreams straight back to the command point so that we could make sure our water was being put in the right spot at the

right time and reduce the runoff.

“Another drone was providing footage from inside the building, we flew inside the building after the crews had withdrawn and we were able to record footage that could be used to make sure that the fire hadn’t spread, and that the situation wasn’t getting worse.

“In fact, half an hour later we flew again, which proved that the situation had improved and then the Commanders were able to deploy firefighters inside the building.”

The use of drones is still a relatively new process in firefighting, but it has made major improvements in safely fighting fires.

“This capability is still in its infancy. We have deployed a number of times but this was by far our most technical mission so far,” Turner said.

world in this sort of technology in our drone program. We have more than 120 drones across the state.” In some cases, the drones replace the need to send firefighters into unknown conditions.

“Historically in firefighting, we would surround and drown, we would… shoot the fire with jets, sometimes when you are firing the water through the smoke, you can’t actually accurately see where that water’s going and if it is having good effect,” Turner said.

“By using the drones... we can actually stand beside the operator and give live feedback, and they can instantly move their hose streams.”

The drones used inside buildings operate using first person view and all other drones are operated by having a visual line of sight.

Other drones have the capacity to

Team Leader of Aviation FRNSW, Russell Turner. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Team Leader of Aviation FRNSW, Russell Turner showing one of the drones.

EMILY CHATE

How an old-school letter can be just the ticket for a local senior

Putting pen to paper is fast becoming a lost art, with love letters now in the form of Snapchats, birthday messages now a post on Facebook, and communication with family often quick text messages.

According to The Royce resident Shirley Bernard, there’s something special and personal about receiving a handwritten note.

“To me, writing a letter is just like talking, and to receive one is just beautiful,” Bernard said.

“To think a person has sat down and done that specially for you and took the time to write those few words in their busy lives, I’d love to see people doing it more.”

Even with easy access to a phone, Bernard is still writing to connect with her family, including her sister in Ballina, her cousin in the country, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“One of my little grandchildren, when they moved up north, I used to write to them every week, and the little fellow was only three, and every morning he used to ask, ‘Is it nana letter time today?’,” Bernard said with nostalgia.

“I’ll never forget his mother telling me he said that.”

The great-grandmother even has a toolkit for letter writing.

“I’ve got a compendium which I gifted to my grandmother, who’s been gone for about 63 years now, and all the gifts we gave her were given back to us,” Bernard recounted.

“It’s what you keep all your writing materials

in. Have you ever heard of it?”

Upon the shake of my head, she explained it is the perfect letter writer’s companion.

“It’s just like a folder, so you’ve got room for your stamps and your envelopes and your pen

– it was a commonly used thing that people had,” Bernard explained.

“This one has to be at least 70-years-old.”

Although Bernard doesn’t feel lonely because she’s close to family, aged care worker Malika Chapman said some residents aren’t so fortunate, and receiving a letter is like a lifeline.

“I’ve got a few residents whose children and grandchildren have all moved to Europe, and they love writing to them,” Chapman said.

“I usually deliver the mail, and when I bring it to them, I can see their faces light up; it’s really special to them to receive a letter from their family.

“It makes me really happy to see their excitement.”

In the lead-up to the New South Wales Seniors Festival from March 3 to 16, Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said the government is committed to ensuring seniors stay safe, active, healthy and connected – whether that’s through a letter or otherwise.

“Research shows many seniors experience loneliness and social isolation,” the minister said.

“It is important that we reach out to our seniors, to let them know we care, and to just catch up. It can be a text message, a phone call, or even a letter.

“What matters is staying connected and letting them know they are not alone.”

Shirley Bernard and Malika Chapman. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

Local resident Joyce Waters celebrated her 100th birthday last week at a special birthday party at her nursing home.

Waters was thrown a special 100th birthday party on her birthday fit with a sparkly sash and a bejeweled tiara.

“I’m overwhelmed. I can’t believe it’s happening,” Waters said.

Waters was born on February 12, 1925, and has lived a long life. At 14, she met the man who would be her husband, Frank, in 1934.

Waters spent over four decades with Frank and had three children together.

“I’ve got millions of good memories; I can’t pick one!” she said.

“The main one is marrying Frank. I was married for 45 years before he passed on.”

Waters spent nearly two decades calling Emu Plains home, saying she loved the area.

Waters’ secret to living a long life is simple.

“A lot of love. Lots of being looked after, especially by my daughter and granddaughter,” Waters said.

– Emily Chate

Making an impact

Penrith local featured in book to be launched in New York

APenrith local will have her book premiered in New York City with all the other contributors in attendance.

Genene Wilson has spent most of her life living and working in Penrith, providing quality financial support and planning services.

Now, Wilson has used her financial expertise to contribute to That Impact Book , a showcase of over 40 elite entrepreneurs from around the world spearheaded by Shar Moore.

“It’s about bringing together different thought leaders from around the world to share their creativity and what impact they’ve been making in the world to inspire people and discuss how to master certain things that you do and talk about perseverance and how you can transform your life and achieve different things,” Wilson said. Wilson has previously worked with Moore and revealed she originally declined the opportu-

As your local member in the Australian Parliament, there’s nothing more important to me than representing and supporting our community

If I can help in any way please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or

nity to contribute to the book but soon changed her mind.

“When she came to me a few years ago and said I’ve got this idea to get thought leaders together and get them to talk about all these different aspects of life and how they’ve achieved things, I was really inspired,” Wilson said.

“I resisted a little because I was

suburbs managed to do this. I really have a lot to share, give and to say,” Wilson said.

“[The book] is another aspect of sharing what I know.”

Wilson started her career as an accountant but moved into financial advice after wanting something more.

“I talked to my colleagues about being more forward-looking and I started to look at what I could do next. I’m someone who is a bit like a lamington, like when you sprinkle coconut on the outside of a lamington, I pick up everything!” Wilson said.

just busy! She came back to me, about six months ago I sold my business, and she came back to me and said is now a better time?

And it was!”

Having spent years building her business, Wilson is proud to be a part of the book.

“It’s a huge honour. When I think about it, I wonder how a little girl from the western

Melissa’s Message

The weekly views of the Federal Member for Lindsay

An important initiative close to my family’s heart

“I decided to move across into financial advice was the way forward for me because it would be much more forward looking… It also had a very personable aspect where you are building really deep relationships with people and helping them to make the most of their money and their future.”

The book will officially be launched in March in New York’s famous Times Square.

To find out more about the book, check out www.thatimpactbook.com.

sugar levels. But with research, innovation, and community support, we are making progress toward a better future.

On Sunday, March 2, the Penrith community will come together for the JDRF One Walk at Tench Reserve — a cause that is deeply personal to me and so many local families. The event begins at 9am, with the walk starting at 10am, raising awareness and funds for critical type 1 diabetes (T1D) research.

One Walk is more than just a fundraising event — it’s a chance to stand together, to support those living with T1D, and to take steps toward a cure. It’s a family-friendly day with food, entertainment, and the opportunity to connect with others who understand the journey.

I encourage you to join us, walk with us, and help make a difference. Register now at walk.jdrf.org.au — because every step brings us closer to a cure.

For my family, T1D is not just a statistic— it’s our reality. My son, Byron, lives with type 1 diabetes, and I’ve seen firsthand the daily challenges that come with it. There are no breaks, no days off — just constant monitoring, insulin injections, and the ever-present concern about blood

MELISSA MCINTOSH Federal Member for Lindsay

Genene Wilson. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Joyce Waters turned 100 on Wednesday, February 12. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Funding helps Castlereagh Public school with playground

Alocal school has been awarded funding to upgrade their playground and outdoor learning areas.

Castlereagh Public School

P&C secured $30,000 of funding from the previous round of the State Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, bolstering their existing fundraising efforts to install new playground equipment.

The P&C Associations of three local primary schools are among the 12 successful applicants in the Londonderry electorate.

Oxley Park Public School received $100,000 in funding to improve quality learning at the school through a new covered outdoor learning area and repairs to current infrastructure.

Through the grants Nepean Football Association has also been awarded $35,940 for the purchase of six publicly accessible defibrillators at Parkes Avenue and Wollemi College fields in Werrington, Village Oval in Jordan Springs, Cook Park

and Shepherds Street Park in St Marys and Kevin Dwyer Park in Colyton.

NSW Deputy Premier and local member for Londonderry Prue Car said the program is a great way to improve local facilities.

“Local residents know what their communities need when it comes to infrastructure in our area, and the NSW Government Community Building Partnership Program is a way to help meet those needs,” she said.

“This investment will deliver much-needed improvements to local facilities, form public school

playground updates and life-saving defibrillators at our local sporting fields.

“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing how these projects make a real difference in our area.”

The NSW Government Community Building Partnership Program is now open for 2025 with $450,000 available to the Londonderry area.

To apply, visit www.nsw. gov.au/grants-and-funding/ community-building-partnership, applications close at 5pm this Friday.

Breakfast to celebrate women in our community

Local women are a force to be reckoned with, and this energy will be amplified at Penrith CBD Corp’s International Women’s Day Breakfast.

The event will raise money for The Haven and includes breakfast, an inspiring guest panel, and awards for Local Woman of the Year and Local Young Woman of the Year.

“We’re celebrating the success of women in business and community, and we bring together not just women in a room, but everyone,” said Gai Hawthorn, CEO of Penrith CBD Corp.

“It’s good to have that opportunity to celebrate and see how far we’ve come and how far we can go.”

Performance and wellness coach Lara Wentworth will inspire as the event’s keynote speaker, and business owner and author Debbie O’Connor will emcee the morning.

The panel will be led by ALA Law’s Amanda Little, followed by Judge Accountants’ Gabrielle Benkovich, Automated Control Solutions’ Krys Francica, and Cirillo Civil Group’s Kelly Samuels.

“Hearing stories from our guest speakers and businesses about how they’ve succeeded and how a woman balances life as a mum and a business owner is amazing – Amanda Little from ALA is a pure example of that,” Hawthorn explained.

“She went from one staff member, grew her business, and now has 15 staff members and has invested so much back into the city.

“It’s great to have the success stories for

International Women’s Day because it’s not just a day for equality, it’s a day to show that we are growing, and we are working together to be the women that we need to be to grow the city and businesses and families.”

The morning also includes an investment in youth with students from two local schools invited to learn how to conduct themselves when interviewed, how to stay safe, how to do their hair and make-up, and given banking and financial advice.

The breakfast is on March 7 from 7am to 9.30am at Panthers’ Ron Mulock Room. Tickets for the event are $50, and tables of eight are also available.

Book online at https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1344950. Call 4722 5556 for more information.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s

Mayor

New pathway improves pedestrian safety

Recently, I had the pleasure of walking on the new Nepean Avenue pedestrian pathway for the first time. I experienced firsthand the continuous connection this pathway provides and the significant improvements to pedestrian safety.

This project has been many years in the making and I know its completion has been eagerly anticipated by our community. Over the years we’ve worked hard to deliver projects that improve connectivity around the Nepean River Precinct, but Nepean Avenue was always the ‘missing link’ – until now.

and we’ve achieved that with this pathway, which provides a physical and visual separation between pedestrians and the road. Cyclists are also set to benefit from improved safety along Nepean Avenue.

As part of this project, we’ve added traffic calming paver bands to the road to create a safer, calmer traffic environment which supports cyclists and encourages more active transport.

We’ve also planted more trees along Nepean Avenue to enhance the amenity of the street and provide natural shade which will help keep everyone to stay cool during the warmer months.

Our shared vision for a walkable, connected precinct has finally become a reality. The new pathway creates a continuous, safe loop around the popular bridge-to-bridge section of the Great River Walk, enabling everyone to walk, run, scoot, or skate around the Nepean River with confidence and ease.

Of course, safety has always been at the heart of this project. Removing the need for pedestrians to walk on the road alongside passing traffic was our priority,

I’d like to thank the residents of Nepean Avenue and surrounding streets for their patience during construction. I’d also like to thank the NSW Government for their support of this project through the Metropolitan Greenspace Program.

Whether you walk, run, scoot, skate, or ride around the Nepean River, I hope you enjoy the improvements on Nepean Avenue.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Last year’s Penrith Local Young Woman of the Year Lucinda Harvey with State Penrith MP Karen McKeown.

ALLY HALL

Deputy Premier Prue Car visiting Castlereagh Public School.

Δ Maxibon launches new flavours: Australia’s biggest and most popular ice-cream sandwich brand, Maxibon is pulling out the apron and launching two new bons, fresh from the freezer, in their first-ever bakery-inspired range. Introducing the new frozen twists on bakery classics, Maxibon Vanilla Slice and Maxibon Hedgehog Slice. Maxibon Vanilla Slice features a custard slab sandwiched between two golden Maxibon biccies on one end and dipped in icing with flaky wafers on the other. It’s everything you love about the classic vanilla slice, only reimagined. Then there’s the second classic in the new range, Maxibon Hedgehog Slice. Picture a rich choc flavoured slab packed with salty cookie crumbs, sandwiched between two golden Maxibon biccies on one end, dipped in milk choc and loaded with more crunchy cookie crumbs on the other. Available now.

Δ Sweet new collab: Ballarat’s family-run Springhill Farm is teaming up with iconic lollipop Chupa Chups to launch the limited-edition SLICE x Chupa Chups ‘Slice Balls’ in the Coles bakery aisle this month. The SLICE x Chupa Chups Slice Balls are bite-sized wonders available in two iconic Chupa Chups-inspired flavours – Strawberry & Cream and Choco Banana – bringing a whole new level of fun to snack time. Made with all-natural ingredients and containing no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, each ball has a silky choco top that is then sprinkled with crunchy candy shards for that extra crack. Available in Coles stores at $6 for a pack of four.

pizza sauce, cheese sauce, mozzarella and garlic butter, the Pizza Pots are available in three flavours: Three Cheese, Pepperoni, or Beef & Bacon. Prefer sweet over savoury? Domino’s also has you covered with the new Lava Pots – two delicious cups filled with handcrafted choc lava cake, oven baked, drizzled with cream cheese style icing and sprinkled with icing sugar.

Δ Family Fun Day: Hope Church is holding a free family fun day at St Marys this Sunday, February 23 from 11.30am-2.30pm. There will be a long list of activities including rock climbing, face painting, dance classes, a petting zoo and more. It’s at 74 Marsden Road, St Marys.

Δ New Pizza Pots: Domino’s has just launched its new value snack range featuring Pizza Pots. A three-piece pack of crispy cheese crusted pizza snacks oozing with

Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about store openings, new menus and more! Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Do you remember the old Nepean Nipper buses, which were part of the local public transport network in Penrith in the 1990s?

This bus is the 772 St Marys via Erskine Park service, carrying passengers along Carpenter Street at St Marys on May 27, 1998.

The Nippers started in service in February 1993, with a major launch held at Penrith Station.

It’s widely considered that the Nippers failed the test – drivers weren’t big fans, and they were often overcrowded.

They started disappearing from the network in the 2000s, with none in operation in Penrith today.

(Photo thanks to Transport for NSW)

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

Making the right choice for your kids

Whether it’s primary school or high school, finding the right place to send your child for their education can be one of the most difficult decisions for a parent.

It’s not just about location, there’s so many factors to consider.

What is important to you and your child may not be the same as other families, which is why the State Government urges parents and caregivers to consider all of the following elements:

• the school’s reputation in the local community

• its location and how close it is to where you live and public transport

• any specific educational programs or curriculum focus, such as music or sports

• its ability to cater for children with disability or additional learning needs

• the availability of special religion or ethics classes

• services for students from non-English speaking backgrounds

• the general condition of

the buildings, classrooms and playgrounds

• before and after school care (BASC) as well as vacation care options.

To help decide if a school is the best fit for your child, it can help to visit the school’s website, attend an open day, talk to other parents you know who have children at the school, or make an appointment with the principal to discuss any questions in person.

Public primary schools can accept enrolments from parents who live outside that school’s local enrolment area if places are available. But there is no guarantee that your application will be successful.

Applications from parents outside a local enrolment area are usually assessed on a range of criteria.

So what’s the first step?

Talk to your local school, talk to other parents and more importantly, visit an open day – it’s a great opportunity to get a feel for what a school is all about and make an informed choice.

Tuesday 4 March: 9am-10am

Thursday 6 March: 9am-10am

Friday 7 March: 9am-10am

Scan here to register

INSTAGRAM’S NEW SIZES BUSINESS

Instagram continues to evolve, and as of February 2025, in-feed posts now display in a 3:4 ratio (1080 x 1350 pixels), taking up more screen space to compete with the high engagement of Reels. For small businesses, understanding the strengths of Reels and in-feed posts is key to an effective Instagram strategy.

What’s the difference?

• Reels: Short-form videos (up to 90 seconds) with built-in editing tools, captions, and music. Designed for discovery, Reels can appear in the feeds of non-followers, increasing visibility.

• In-feed posts (now 3:4 ratio): Traditional Instagram content – single images or carousels – displayed on your profile and shared with followers. The new 3:4 format (1080 x 1350 pixels), introduced in February 2025, takes up more space on-screen. Now more engaging.

How Instagram ranks your content Instagram’s algorithm treats these formats differently:

• Reels prioritise engagement – The more likes, comments, and shares a Reel receives, the more likely it is to be pushed to a wider audience.

• In-feed posts prioritise relevance – Your post’s caption, hashtags, and past interactions with followers determine how widely it’s shown.

Why Reels matter for small businesses

• Higher reach and engagement – Reels consistently outperform static posts, with an average reach rate of 14 per cent.

• Consumer preference –66 per cent of consumers prefer short-form video content.

• Creative storytelling

– Tutorials, behind-thescenes content, and product demonstrations thrive in this format.

The role of in-feed posts (now optimised for 3:4 ratio)

• Better visibility – The taller 3:4 format (1080 x 1350 pixels) ensures posts stand out in the feed.

• Brand credibility – Helps establish a structured and professional brand identity.

• Product and service details – Great for carousels, testimonials, and product launches. Balancing Reels and in-feed posts For small businesses, a mix of Reels and in-feed posts ensures both visibility and credibility. Develop a strategy that works for you.

HANNAH STACK

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BUDGET

We specialise in recovering unpaid super, that is where you have worked as a sole trader anywhere in Australia since 1992 and earnt at least $450 per month and have not had super paid. It makes no difference if you were a contractor and not an employee, you are still entitled to super We work “on results only”.

If you would like to discuss this with no obligation, please call Ian James on 0414 973 874 or email ian.james@kaizenenterprises.com.au

It is with heavy sadness that the family of Max Borgen announce his peaceful passing on February 16th, 2025 at the age of 67 years.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children Michael and Melissa; son-in-law Matthew; grandchildren; siblings and in-laws, Peter, Marianne & John, and Karen & David; former wife Narelle; as well as his extended family and friends including his local colleagues at NSW Ambulance and Fire and Rescue NSW

Family & friends of Max are warmly invited to attend his Funeral service to be held in the North Chapel, Pinegrove Crematorium, Kington St Minchinbury on Thursday 27th February 2025 at 11.00am. Please meet at the Chapel.

Max’s family wishes to send their heartfelt thank you to Dr Amanda Stevanovic and the staff at Nepean Hospital and Matilda Nepean for their unwavering care and compassion.

BURNS , June

(nee Stirling) ~ 1927 - 2025

Late of Penrith, formerly Parramatta and Forbes.

A much loved mother and mother-in-law of Harry (dec), Alan & Annette, Lee, Julie, Jodie & Matthew and Maureen & Steve. Cherished grandmother, great-grandmother and great, great-grandmother

A Funeral Service for June will be held on Friday, 21st February 2025 at The Grace Bible Church, 80 Joseph Street, Kingswood, commencing at 12pm.

Following this service, June will be laid to rest in Penrith General Cemetery, Kingswood. In the loving care of

The true ‘country show’ returns

The Luddenham Annual Show is back for another year on March 1 and 2 with thousands expected to attend the biggest event on the Luddenham calendar.

The 119th edition of the “Country Show” has a range of entertainment for the whole family with organisers expecting to build on the record crowds in attendance last year.

Saturday morning kicks off with the traditional poet’s breakfast with other Luddenham favourites throughout the day including the cattle show, the dog high jump, and line dancing.

With the help of generous sponsors, a prize pool of over $8,000 has attracted bull riders from across the state for a hot contest on Saturday night. Once the rush of the bull ride has concluded, crowds can enjoy live music with the 2024 Best of the Buskers from the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Robbi and Ben lighting up the stage followed by Ronnie Judo and the Whiskey Sodas who will be performing until late with a quick intermission for the famous Foti Fireworks.

Sunday presents the opportunity for crowds to get involved with the best mullet competition, strong arm competition, pumpkin lawn bowls,

whip cracking, ice cream eating and Lego building competitions for the family to enjoy. For those who prefer to sit and watch, the farm vehicle challenge, sheep dog trials and wood chopping competitions will be held on Sunday with almost $4000 up for grabs in the wood chopping. Back for another year,

Ingrid Mae will again grace the Luddenham stage, performing her country music hits into the late afternoon.

The Wheel of Steel will be performing five shows throughout the weekend, defying gravity with daredevil tricks dazzling the arena. The stage is spoilt for entertainment

with magic shows, dancers, a bush balladeer and the infamous Jurassic Jack Dinosaur show. Sideshow alley is back as well as the animal nursery, horse and poultry competitions with a new cow milking demonstration occurring on both days in the cattle pavilion.

The pavilion competitions are free

to enter with categories for art, craft, photography, cooking, produce, flowers, scarecrows and of course Lego. Debuting this year is the “man cake” competition, designed to encouraged men to enter baking competitions with cash prizes up for grabs. A great range of prizes including cash, vouchers and prize packs donated by sponsors will be on offer, for full details check the website or social pages.

Luddenham Showground can be found on the corner of Park Road and Campbell Street, and is one of only three grounds in the state still wholly owned by the community. The annual show raises much needed funds for the upkeep of the facilities as well as next year’s show. Luddenham A.H & I society boasts a proud history dating back 1891 when it was reported in the papers of the time “Luddenham may fairly lay claim to having the best first show ever held in the colony!” This year’s committee, many of whose forebears were among the first organisers are determined to live up to that high standard.

Further information can be found on the website www.luddenhamshow.com.au or on the Luddenham Show Facebook and Instagram pages.

★ Bull ride

★ Woodchopping

★ Wheel of Steel

★ Horse vs Motorbike vs Buggie vs Ute vs Tractor

Get

★ Dog high jump

★ Fireworks

★ Live music

★ Poultry, cattle and horse competitions

★ Animal nursery

Saturday 1st March2025- TIMETABLE

Sunday2nd March2025- TIMETABLE

ENTERTAINMENT

MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND MORE – PENRITH’S LEADING ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

MUSIC AND LIFE OF THE BIG O

American singer-songwriter Roy Orbison led a fascinating life of immense ups and drastic downs, all of which will be portrayed in ‘The Roy Orbison Story’ starring Mark Shelley at the Blue Mountains Theatre on March 21.

Shelley began singing professionally at 18-years-old, and as time went on, his voice was compared to Orbison’s.

“He’s got so many wonderful songs and such an interesting life story; he was a really important figure in early contemporary music and rock ‘n’ roll and that fascinated me,” Shelley said.

“As that fascination grew, I then developed a show to share his songs and his story with people.”

Within that story is the death of his wife in a motorcycle accident in 1966 and the death of two of his children in a house fire in 1968.

“He was depicted as a man of tragedy, but in reality, he had tragic things happen,” Shelley explained.

“But, as I researched and got to know his character, he was actually a really positive man with a dry sense of humour and quite enjoyed life.

“He had the tragedy side of his life which was devastating, but then his passion for music and passion for life kept him going.”

Although Shelley spends a lot of time emulating the Caruso of Rock, it doesn’t take an emotional toll on him.

“At times, when you’re aware of other people’s tragedy, you reflect on how it would devastate you,” Shelley stated.

“I’m a father of two children, and I cannot

imagine going on with life if I lost them in the tragic way that he lost his children.

“In that way, there’s that emotional connec tion, but on a personal day-to-day level, I’m playing a character, and I can step in and out of that character.”

The show will take the audience through more than 20 of Orbison’s hits.

“They’ll hopefully feel the emotion from those segments and stories,” Shelley said.

“There are some sections where people like to sing along, and we’ll have a bit of a laugh.”

Some of those hits will include songs from the late 1980s, when the ‘Big O’ was part of a supergroup.

“We also touch on the end part of his life where he was a member of the Trave ling Wilburys, which was a very famous band with iconic people like Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty and George Harrison,” Shelley said.

Alongside his seven-piece band, Shelley described sharing Orbison’s story as a privilege.

“Obviously I’m not Roy Orbison, there’s only one and he’s passed away, but to be able to take people on a journey through his life and also back to their own memories of where they were and what they were doing when they first heard those songs, it’s an honour,” Shelley finished.

Experience the vocal range and tone of Roy Orbison through Mark Shelley with ‘The Roy Orbison Story’ on March 21 at the Blue Mountains Theatre. Tickets cost $67.50 and can be purchased through the Blue Mountains Theatre website at https:// www.bluemountainstheatre.com.au/whats-on/season-2025/the-roy-orbison-story.

ALLY HALL

BOB McKINNON

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C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

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C ambridge Gardens

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McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Hewitt Street Takeaway

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Cranebrook Village

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Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

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Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

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Penrith Regional Galler y Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

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Super Save Compounding Chemis t

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Abcoe

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Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

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S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

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Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

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B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

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S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

MFC Food Stores

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Au stralian Arms

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Brisket Boys

Ca fé Fre d

C altex Coreen Avenue

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Golf Club

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Tattersalls Hotel

The Chicken Run

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Mobil Ser vice Station

The Chemist Shop

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Woolworths

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

St Clair Blue

Librar y

St Mar ys

s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido’s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Monfar ville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Mar ys Band Club

St Mar ys Fish Market

St Mar ys Le agues Club

St Mar ys Librar

McDonald's St Mar ys South

THINGS TO DO

Intro to Dragon Boating

On Sunday, February 23, you can learn the art of Dragon Boat racing at Penrith Beach. Qualified instructors will teach teams how to undergo the traditional Chinese watercraft that’s been enjoyed for over 2,000 years. The lesson will go from 11am to 3pm and you can register online at www.nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/penrith-beach.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au.

Penrith CBD Corporation

Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

Saturdays 4.30pm, WSU Kingswood Campus. Outside the Food Hub. Guan 0422 120 738.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club

Guided Tours of

Explore the beautiful gardens and the history of a colonial homestead during a guided tour of Fernhill Estate on Sunday, February 23. You can learn about the fascinating history of Fernhill House, from the Cox family in the late 1800s to the Andersons in the 1980s. Book your guided tour online at www. greatersydneyparklands.nsw.gov.au. Tickets start at $30.

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the last Monday of the month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am.

Probus Club of Nepean

First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am.

Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866 for more information.

South Creek Probus Club

Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com.

Penrith Lions Club

Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Trish on 0421 414 012.

Red Cross Penrith

Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and

volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Penrith NASHOS

Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Nepean Food Services

Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au.

Free food shop

9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information.

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700 for more details.

Arms of Australia Inn Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.

Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.

Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

stern Sydney Stargazing offers small group tours of the night sky that are open to those with no prior knowledge of Astromony- just a healthy interest in space.

ours are limited to 20 people, during which participants will be led by an experienced ough an exploration of the night sky using a state-of-the-art telescope.

Located in Emu Plains esday to Saturday evenings

Additional sessions based on demand

Panthers’ Free Members Show will feature two incredible artists: Christopher Booth and The Only Arena. Booth will take you on a journey from powerful opera arias, to musical theatre songs, through to jazz and rock. Arena will use her powerful voice to perform legendary songs by legendary artists. The event starts at 3pm this Saturday and is free for members. Christopher Booth and The Only Arena

Fernhill Estate

‘Captain America: Brave New World’ is everything that is good about the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). I have been a massive Marvel fan for a lot of my life, I remember writing notes and investigating theories before ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Since then, I must admit I have gotten a little bit lost in the MCU, something that a lot of Marvel fans can relate to. While I no longer have the same excitement for each Marvel movie that comes out, I was excited to see the newest installment of ‘Captain America’.

Captain America has always been my favourite of the MCU heroes, and it has just been reaffirmed after watching ‘Captain America: Brave New World’. He is undeniably good, unwavering in his values and will protect those he deems need it the most. This is true whether it is Steve Rogers (Chris

Evans) or Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) holding the shield.

Evans really made the character through his time as the hero, it took seven movies worth of storytelling to make him the character he was. In his last appearance as the Cap in 2019’s ‘Avengers: Endgame’ the mantle, or the shield in this case, was passed to Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson to play the character in the future of the MCU.

‘Captain America: Brave New World’ follows Captain America through his support behind newly elected President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) as America tries to claim control of Celestial Island (from 2021’s Eternals) and its new element Adamantium (finally introduced into the MCU!). While not giving much away, 2008’s ‘The Incredible Hulk’ would be ideal to watch beforehand.

What follows is a political thriller that pins soldier against president. The third act surprise of the Red Hulk was given away in all the trailers, which I think made the pay off a little less exciting. Particularly given that the Red Hulk doesn’t make an appearance until the last 30 minutes of the movie. They were clearly after bums in seats over surprise. In my opinion, it took a while for Mackie to find his feet in the role, whether that was the story or the actor’s fault, who knows? But this movie is really where he takes flight (literally because this Captain America has mechanical wings). One of the main things Wilson wrestles with is his decision to not take a super soldier serum, he is Captain America

without the added strength his predecessor had. It makes Wilson innovate and find other ways to be Captain America. Mackie plays this so well and definitely shows off his acting chops in some of the film’s more tender moments.

The plot was an interesting political thriller that might be mirroring a bit close to what’s happening in America right now. The third act became a little gimmicky with some tacky CGI (which I imagine will be miraculously fixed when it comes to streaming) but overall, I did really enjoy the movie. It’s a fun two hours that doesn’t require too much thinking. – Emily Chate

www.hoyts.com.au

Ê The brand-new season of ‘The Dog House Australia’ premieres on 10 on Wednesday, February 26 at 7.30pm. Once again, the Animal Welfare League (AWL) in Kemps Creek opens their doors to the nation as we follow the heartwarming stories of abandoned dogs and the humans who are hoping to give them a forever home. Something that I found interesting, since the show premiered back in 2021, around 160 dogs have been given a chance thanks to the AWL and their team. I was lucky enough to catch a preview copy of the first episode of season five, and I have no doubt this show will continue to be a raging success and one that’s perfect for the whole family!

Ê Channel Seven has announced a strong cast for its new season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’. Competing for the mirror ball trophy this year will be podcaster Brittany Hockley, ‘The Office Australia’ star Felicity Ward, boxer Harry Garside, 7NEWS presenter Karina Carvalho, ‘Home and Away’ starlet Kyle Shilling, influencer Mia Fevola, 7NEWS presenter Michael Usher, TV host Osher Günsberg, actress Rebecca Gibney, TV comic Shaun Micallef, Olympic legend Susie O’Neill, and AFL champion Trent Cotchin. Sonia Kruger and Dr Chris Brown return as hosts, alongside judges Craig Revel

Horwood, Sharna Burgess, Helen Richey and Mark Wilson. It will air mid this year.

Ê The third season of ‘Alone Australia’ will premiere on SBS on Wednesday, March 26 at 7.30pm. Dropped into the unpredictable and unforgiving wilds of the West Coast Ranges of Tasmania, 10 new survivalists will push themselves to the limit, alone, totally isolated and with zero contact from the outside world. Battling the elements, they are forced to adapt to the wild will of nature, all in the hopes of being the last one standing and winning a life-changing prize of $250,000. This has been SBS’s biggest show over the last couple of years, so I’m confident season three will have everyone talking at the water cooler!

Ê 7News has dumped its infamous ‘6:57 News’ segment on Friday nights. The Mark Humphries segment was panned for being cringe, unfunny and out of place by most viewers and it seems Seven has agreed. And in case you haven’t noticed yet, 7NEWS

bosses have also axed its controversial horoscopes segment. RIP.

Ê The sixth and final season of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ will be fast-tracked to SBS on Demand on Tuesday, April 8, same day as the US. The full season will be scheduled on both SBS and SBS On Demand, with new episodes premiering weekly up to the finale on Tuesday, May 27.

Ê Exciting news for US sports fans, with Disney+ announcing ESPN sports programming will be added to Disney+ in Australia in the coming months at no extra cost for Premium and Standard subscribers. The ESPN hub on Disney+ will feature more than 10,000 hours of ESPN’s live sports action to the platform via live ESPN and ESPN2 channels, with studio shows including ‘SportsCenter’, ‘The Pat McAfee Show’, ‘NBA Today’ and ‘First Take’, along with live events and on-demand replays, and iconic original programming including ESPN’s award-winning library of 30 for 30 films.

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America (PG) 10:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 11:05 The Newsreader (M l) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Silent Witness (M l) 3:00 Nigella Bites 3:25 Grand Designs (PG) 4:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens 8:30 Silent Witness (M l) 10:15 Optics (PG) 10:45 Hard Quiz (PG) 11:15 ABC Late News 6:00

Friday

3:00

TV Guide: February 21 – 27

9:00

Morning Show (PG) 12:00

Noon News 1:00

Homes And Gardens 2:00

Hunting Party (M v) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “The Greatest Showman” (PG) (’17) Stars: Hugh Jackman 10:40 Australian Idol (PG) 12:20 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 1:20 Travel Oz (PG) 2:00 Home Shopping 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “The 13th Summer” (M l,v) (’22) Stars: Hannah Levien 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Mammals (PG) 8:40 Movie: “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Elodie Yung 11:05 Movie: “No Sudden Move” (M) (’21) Stars: Don Cheadle 9:00 Lingo (PG) 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:30 Wheel Of Fortune 11:30 Judge Judy (PG) 12:00 Farm To Fork 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune UK 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Family Feud (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Wheel Of Fortune UK 8:30 The Graham Norton Show (M)

Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Surveillance Oz (PG) 9:00 Home Shopping 10:30 House Rules (PG) 12:00 Angel (M v) 3:00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 4:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 5:00 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 7:00 Movie: “Hotel Transylvania 2” (PG) (’15) Stars: Adam Sandler

Australian Story 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30

In Paradise (M) 8:30 Vera (M v) 10:05 The Newsreader (M l) 10:55 Unforgotten (M) 6:00

4:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 6:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

7:00

4:05 The Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Great Blue Wild 7:30 Movie: “Belle” (PG) (’13) Stars: Gugu Mbatha-Raw 9:20 What We Do In The Shadows (M l,s,v)

8:30 Jake And The Fatman 9:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Charmed (M v) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 FBI (M v) 12:15 Home Shopping 1:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 2:00 Becker (PG) 2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Ghosts (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG)

Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ Caulfield *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Sydney 500: Day 1 *Live* 9:15 Movie: “The Bourne Ultimatum” (M v) (’07) Stars: Albert Finney 11:35 Motorway Patrol (PG) 12:05 Repco Supercars Championship Highlights 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 My Way 1:00 Let’s Eat With George 1:30 Your Next Cruise 2:00 Innovation Nation 2:10 Movie: “City Slickers” (PG) (’91) Stars: Billy Crystal 4:30 Explore TV 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Space Invaders (PG) 8:30 Movie: “A Star Is Born” (M) (’18) Stars: Lady Gaga 11:15

2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 NDRC Top Doorslammer 4:00 Counting Cars (PG) 4:30 Motorsport: Repco Supercars Championship: Day 1 *Live* 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Taken 3” (MA15+) (’14) Stars: Famke Janssen

11:30 Dream Home (PG) 1:10 Holey Moley Australia (PG) 2:45 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 4:50 Jabba’s Movies (PG) 5:20 Movie: “Blue Crush” (PG) (’02) Stars: Kate Bosworth 7:30 Movie: “Back To The Future II” (PG) (’89) Stars: Michael J Fox

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens 3:30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure (M) 4:15 Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 5:05 This is Going To Be Big (PG) 6:00

3:50 Chuck And The First Peoples’ Kitchen (PG) 4:30 Strait To The Plate 5:05 Spirit Talker (M) 5:35 The Last LandGespe’gewa’gi (PG) 6:05 Kutcha’s Carpool Koorioke (PG) 6:35 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l)

6:30 Jimmy’s Taste Of Florida 7:30 Billy And Dom Eat The World 8:30 Gino And Fred’s Emission Impossible 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

12:00 JAG (PG) 2:00 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 Escape Fishing With ET (PG) 4:30 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League Men: Round 20: Central Coast Mariners v Western Sydney Wanderers *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight

11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Friends (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Frasier (PG)

3:55 BBC News At Ten 4:25 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:55 PBS News Hour 5:55 The Food That Built The World (PG) 7:35 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 Icons Unearthed (M l,v) 10:20 Hudson & Rex (M v) 1:00 Formula E 2025 Highlights 3:20 Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over (PG) 4:20 Young Sheldon (PG) 5:20 Movie: “Space Jam” (G) (’96) Stars: Bill Murray 7:00 Basketball: WNBL: Semi-Final 1: Teams TBA *Live*

Championship: Sydney 500: Day 2 *Live* From Sydney Motorsport Park 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Australian Idol (PG) 8:40 The Hunters (M v) 10:10 Murder In The Outback -The Falconio & Lees Mystery (M l,v) 12:10

7:00 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Get Arty 9:00 Get Clever 10:00 Holey Moley Australia (PG) 11:30 Dream Home 1:10 Home And Away (PG) 4:10 Australian Idol (PG) 6:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 6:30 Puppy School (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 4:25 Black As (PG) 4:55 Soh Presents: Generations And Dynasties (PG) 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Queer & Here 7:00 Great Lakes Wild (PG) 7:30 Our Law (PG) 8:40 Movie: “Kiki” (MA15+) (’16) Stars: Loretta Coombs

10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Are You RV Safe? (PG) 11:00 Luxury Escapes 11:30 Buy To Build 12:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 1:30 Cook With Luke 2:00 Expedition Kimberly 2:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 3:00

12:00 Navigating The World 1:00 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 2:00 JAG (PG) 3:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 4:30 What’s Up Down Under 5:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 5:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Matlock (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M v) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 8:00 Frasier (PG) 10:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 11:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Friends (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30

2:00 Movie: “The Man Who Loved Redheads” (G) (’55) Stars: Moira Shearer 4:00 Movie: “Birdman Of Alcatraz” (PG) (’62) Stars: Burt Lancaster 7:00 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: Brumbies v Force *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union Post-Match

Get Macca’s® delivered.

5:35 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 7:00 The Deep 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures

3:00

5:35 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 7:00 The Deep 7:35 Star Wars:

5:35 Fireman Sam 5:55 The Adventures Of Paddington 6:25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 7:00 The Deep 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00

(MA15+) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 4:30 Frozen In Time

Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Elsbeth (M v) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

“Rocky Balboa” (M v) (’06) Stars: Sylvester Stallone

12:00 ABC News 1:00 The Newsreader (M) 2:00 In Our Blood (M l,s) 3:00 Nigella Bites 3:25 Grand Designs (PG) 4:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure (M) 9:20 Long Lost

Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again” (PG) (’18) Stars: Amanda Seyfried 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Mr Mayor (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Travel Guides (PG) 9:00 Movie: “The Hangover” (MA15+) (’09) Stars: Bradley Cooper 11:00 NINE News 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00

5:30 Our Yorkshire Farm (PG) 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 To The Manor Born 8:40 Midsomer Murders (M s,v) 10:40 The Closer (M v)

Last week was the anniversary of Whitney Houston’s death. An absolute icon, who the world lost way too early. On the day of her anniversary, I made a playlist of my Top 30 Whitney songs, and each song was a classic. She was a legend, selling over 240 million albums and is the only artist in history to have seven consecutive songs reach number one in the US, these spanned between ‘Saving All My Love For You’ and ‘Where Do Broken Hearts Go’.

When Whitney hit it big in 1985, I was in Year 5 at Marayong South Primary School and I was starting my lifelong love affair with music. While I had loved Lionel Richie, Laura Branigan and the Pointer Sisters beforehand, the first I truly loved was Whitney. I asked a friend for a poster, the first poster I hung on my walls. And I used present money

WAYNE’S W RLD

with Wayne Tunks

to buy her first album, my first album that wasn’t a various artists compilation.

I loved her for so long, and even when Madonna took over as my favourite singer, I still loved Whitney and her music – even the albums

that didn’t chart well. If you haven’t heard her final original album, ‘I Look To You’, have a listen – it is a wonderful album.

We always remember where we were when heard certain celebrities died. I remember driving onto Windsor Road when the

radio said Michael Hutchence had died, I was driving in Redfern when I heard of Heath Ledger’s passing and I distinctly remember what I was doing when I heard Whitney had passed.

I was baking food for a friend’s film shoot.

I was in fact making the caramel level of a homemade Snickers slice.

Immediate tears, I had to be careful not to cry into the caramel and turn it into salted caramel.

I guess we feel the deaths of celebrities so deeply because we feel like we know them. We share the songs, we put ourselves in the situations and use music for our happy and sad times, they the perfect match to our emotions. So when an artist that has such a huge impact on your life passes, you feel that. And I still feel Whitney’s tragic passing all these years later.

COUNTRY CORNER

Rising star to drop new single Karli June (pictured), a little-known country music artist out of Canada, is starting to make waves. With an authentic sound and relatable lyrics, she has amassed over 2.7 million streams and video views and is gearing up to release her compelling new single, ‘Always Gonna Be’.

Produced and co-written by Gavin Slate (The Reklaws, Tim Hicks, James Barker Band), ‘Always Gonna Be’ is a breezy, melodic country track celebrating a love as enduring as the timeless

elements of country living.

Anchored by warm banjo tones and June’s soaring vocals, the song radiates a comforting sense of forever.

The single is part of her forthcoming sophomore EP and follows a breakthrough two years.

Look out for the track on all the usual streaming services.

Cash house for sale

Johnny Cash’s historic former home in Memphis is currently on the market, and pictures show a charming property that’s worth every penny of its asking price, according to Taste of Country

The legendary Man in Black’s 3-bedroom, 3-bath-

room home in Memphis is on the market for $495,000 US, and whoever buys it will not only be getting a fully renovated property, they’ll also own a piece of country music history.

Read more at www.tasteofcountry.com.

Country Corner hits the road Country Corner is hitting the road and heading to Nashville next week.

So in upcoming columns, we’ll review some of the latest Nashville bars, and all the bits and pieces from music city to get you in the mood for your next trip to the home of country music!

New developments, employment hubs, and lifestyle opportunities appear to be the key influencing factors behind New South Wales’ most popular property hotspots, according to the latest data.

Prop tech firm InfoTrack has released its Property Market Update Q4 2024 which, for the first time, uses statewide data to examine the total number of sales across all buying groups, including first-home buyers.

“SUBURBS INCLUDING LIVERPOOL AND ST MARYS DOMINATED THROUGH Q4”

It found the 2765 postcode (Marsden Park and surrounds) topped the list for the highest volume of sales from October 1 to December 31 last year.

InfoTrack’s Head of Property Australia, Lee Bailie, said many of the top performing suburbs shared similar features.

“Both Marsden Park (2765) and

Austral (2179), which came in at number four, are both about 50km from the Sydney CBD. They’re proving attractive to buyers because they’re home to new housing developments, offering more affordable living,” Bailie said.

Buyers were also targeting suburbs such as Liverpool (2170 postcode), which finished in second spot, and Westmead (2145 postcode), which rounded out the list at number 10, because they were “close to employment hubs and well-connected to central Sydney”.

The report found Greater Western Sydney continued to be the location of choice for the state’s first-home buyers.

“Suburbs including Liverpool (2170 postcode), and St Marys (2770 postcode), dominated through Q4 with affordable entry points into the market, and access to rapidly developing infrastructure,” he said.

“Westmead (2145 postcode), Parramatta (2150 postcode), and Blacktown (2148 postcode), are proving popular for commuters and value-seekers alike, due to the proximity to major job centres

and transport. Coastal areas like Gosford (2250 postcode) offer a relaxed, family-friendly environment, while areas like Kellyville (2155 postcode) cater to buyers seeking modern suburban living with local amenities.”

Penrith (2750 postcode) – which came in at number eight –returned to the list of the top 10 suburbs for first-home buyers for the first time since 2023.

“Penrith and Glenmore Park, which finished at number six on the list, are positioned in highgrowth corridors, offering longterm value for first-home buyers.”

Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.

PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0

FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME

WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE

Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me

*Artist impression

Clair 39 Solander Drive

This property presents a rare opportunity to enter the housing market at an affordable price but there is a catch. The property requires a full renovation. The bathroom has been partially renovated so this is a major plus. Set on secure private battle axe block in this much sought after location is a major plus and with imagination, creativity and work, this could become the ideal family home or investment. The home’s basic layout provides 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 living areas, inter nal laundry and open kitchen space. In addition the covered outdoor entertainment area doubles up as a generous oversized carport.

To be auctioned on site Saturday 8th March at 3:00pm Open Home Saturday 2:30pm - 3:00pm

For more details contact Ross Heidtmann 0407 113 039 Peter Stanford 0417 333 322

2/314 High Street, Penrith

2/2a Rusden Road

SOMETHING SPECIAL

This stunning duplex is located off the street, hidden away from all the hustle and bustle, yet still only a 3 minute walk to the local shopping hub, local schools, service station and bus stop right out of the front of the complex. The spacious open living design with its stunning polished timber flooring and large windows that allow plenty of natural light, combines perfectly to help create a real ambience within the home. There are three great-sized bedrooms with quality carpet floors and built-in robes and the main bedroom has direct access to the 3-way bathroom which is a considerable size with a large vanity and wall mirror, separate shower and bath, and the toilet is separate again.

$799,990 - $839,990

Open Home Saturday 10:00am – 10:30am

For further information please call Ross Heidtmann 0407 113 039

2/314 High Street, Penrith

Penrith 13/171-173 Derby Street

Located at the rear of this well maintained security strata development and boasting sought-after ground floor position you will find this functional two-bedroom apartment with moder n kitchen, separate laundry and generous living area complete with private balcony The property benefits from a single carport, security access and is positioned 2 streets back from the CBD and approx. 1 kilometre to Nepean Village shopping centre. The area is well serviced by childcare, medical centres, local schools and transport infrastructure.

$365,000

Open Home Saturday 3:00pm - 3:30pm

Details and appointments please call Tony Liras 0425 269 611 Peter Stanford 0417 333 322

2/314 High Street, Penrith

Meadows 250 Caddens Road

From the moment you step into the grand foyer entry, you’ll be captivated by the home’s elegant design and impressive proportions. Multiple living areas include a generously sized formal lounge and dining room, as well as a separate, spacious media/family room. A new gourmet kitchen featuring an open-plan layout that flows into a large informal dining area and a sun-filled sitting space, both overlooking the outdoor entertaining area and sparkling inground pool. Upstairs there is a rumpus room and five generous bedrooms, plus a downstairs study or optional sixth bedroom, while the ensuite and main bathroom provide a touch of luxury. Additional standout features include ducted air conditioning, a solar system, an alarm system, a built-in music system, and much more.

To be auctioned on site Saturday 15th March at 1:30pm

Open Home Saturday 1:00pm – 1:30pm

Details and appointments please call Tony Liras 0425 269 611

2/314 High Street, Penrith

Blaxland

St

Claremont

George Rabie Penrith business icon

Max Cowan 1990s/2000s Panthers Marketing Guru

Glenn Matthews Former Panthers Group CEO

Gina Field Owner of Nepean Regional Security

Richard Fox Champion kayaker and business leader

Jim Penman CEO of Jim’s Group

Warren Smith Long-time St Marys Leagues Club President

Greg Taylor Penrith real estate veteran

Gai Hawthorn CEO of the Penrith CBD Corporation

Peter Collins Chair of Nepean Blue Mtns Local Health District

John Todd CEO of Western Sydney

Troy Dodds Long-time Editor of The Western Weekender

Long-time Penrith business owner

ARoyal Lifesaving Australia report suggests that one-year-old children are statistically at the greatest risk of drowning in Australia, with the risk of drowning tripling after a child’s first birthday.

“Parents and carers need to know that the risk of drowning triples as soon as a child starts to crawl, peaking shortly after a child’s first birthday,” Royal Lifesaving CEO, Justin Scarr said.

The importance of swimming lessons cannot be underestimated. The sooner a child can turn themselves around after a jump or fall into the water and return to the side, the safer they will be. We understand how busy parents are and that morning or weekend Water Babies lessons may not suit all families, especially families who also have older children in afternoon swimming lessons, which is why we this week introduced afternoon Water Babies swimming lessons at Nepean Aquatic Centre.

Saving said “almost all” drowning deaths in children under five were due to lack of adult supervision, with most of the deaths a result of a fall into the water.

Scarr said: “We can’t emphasise enough how important active adult supervision is in preventing these deaths. Distractions are dangerous – whether it is taking a phone call, browsing social media or ducking inside to grab something – we ask parents and carers to always keep watch. In addition, it is essential that people install pool fences and check pool gates regularly to make sure they are not faulty or kept propped open.”

Royal Life Australia recommends that children 0-5 should be within arm’s reach of a supervising adult at all times when around water.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics lists drowning as the number one cause of accidental death in children under five. Royal Life

Our Water Babies program teaches young babies and children games and exercises that teach them when to jump into the water, when to hold their breath and to either turn over and float or paddle back to the side and hold on, or to pull themselves out. This is absolutely crucial to a child’s water safety. Lessons also teach children to wait their turn, and not to enter the water until invited to do so with an adult, an important skill when by the pool at home.

We run Water Babies swimming lessons seven days a week. Interested in afternoon Water Babies lessons? Jump onto the website www.nepeanaquaticcentre.com. au or give us a call.

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE The Experts

One Point Health 4732 5188

Parkinson’s Disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact goes beyond the physical. While there’s currently no cure for Parkinson’s, there is a growing understanding of how physiotherapy can significantly enhance the quality of life for those living with the condition. In this article, we explore the invaluable role of physiotherapy in the management of Parkinson’s Disease and its potential to change lives.

The Parkinson’s challenge Parkinson’s Disease is characterised by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, leading to a wide range of motor and non-motor symptoms. These can include tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. Besides these visible symptoms, Parkinson’s also affects mood, cognition, and overall well-being. This makes it a multifaceted condition that requires a holistic approach to care.

A personalised approach

Physiotherapy has emerged as a vital component of Parkinson’s Disease management. The role of physiotherapists goes beyond simple exercise routines. They develop personalised treatment plans that address specific symptoms and challenges faced by each patient. These plans incorporate various techniques aimed at improving mobility, posture, balance, and overall physical well-being.

Enhancing mobility

One of the primary goals of physiotherapy in Parkinson’s is to enhance mobility.

Gait disturbances and freezing of gait are common issues in Parkinson’s patients.

Physiotherapists work on gait training, helping patients regain a smoother, more confident stride.

They also focus on exercises that target muscle strength and flexibility to combat the rigidity and slowness of movement associated with the disease.

Balance and posture

Maintaining balance and posture can be particularly challenging for Parkinson’s patients.

Physiotherapists employ exercises and techniques that improve core strength and stability, reducing the risk of falls. Simple activities like practicing getting in and out of chairs or working on balance exercises can make a significant difference in daily life.

Beyond the physical

It’s crucial to note that physiotherapy in Parkinson’s Disease management isn’t limited to physical aspects.

It can also address emotional and psychological well-being. By engaging in regular physiotherapy sessions, patients often experience improved mood, reduced anxiety, and a greater sense of control over their condition.

Group therapy sessions can provide a sense of community and support.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the holistic management of Parkinson’s Disease.

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition, physiotherapists empower patients to lead fuller lives.

As research and technology advance, the future of Parkinson’s care looks brighter than ever, with physiotherapy at the forefront of the battle against this challenging disease.

See you next week.

JUSTIN HANNA

MAXIMISING YOUR CENTRELINK ENTITLEMENT

Retirement income includes at least some Centrelink age pension for most people. If we can increase the amount of income we can receive from Centrelink, the less income we need to generate from our own assets.

Although increasing the amount of Centrelink we receive is important, it shouldn’t be by wasting money for the sake of increased Centrelink only. You are always better off with more money so don’t fall in to the trap of offloading assets for no good reason.

That said, you are able to gift up $10,000 per year and $30,000 over any five year period and these assets won’t count to your asset test. The value of your primary residence does not count as an asset, and money spent improving your family home is a way to reduce your assets. Again, spending money on your home with the only reason to increase Centrelink is not encouraged. But if improving your home will

improve your standard of living this might be an option.

Money in superannuation doesn’t count for Centrelink income and assets tests for those under pension age. This, in some circumstances, can provide an opportunity to increase Centrelink payments. In the case that one member is of age pension and

the other is not, by putting assets in the younger person’s superannuation, you will decrease the assessable assets and increase the pension in the short-term. This strategy can also be used for those on pensions other than the age pension, for example, the disability pension. Long-term annuities are

Centrelink friendly also. A portion of their value becomes non-assessable each year. An annuity with a term of six or more years with no return on capital will see the value of the payment for the year come off the value of the asset each year. This however, involves you spending your capital.

In the case of a life-long annuity, modern products have the potential to reduce the value of the assets for Centrelink purposes, yet retain access to the funds for a period of time. For life-long annuities, the value of the annuity is divided by life expectancy at the time the annuity commences to calculate the deductible amount. This deductible amount is the amount of income you can receive tax free, but also is the amount deducted from the Centrelink asset test value of the annuity each year. These are just a few methods that can increase your Centrelink pension which should help your retirement savings last longer.

Keep local news free

Having a local news service is vital to a community such as Penrith.

Making a pledge to The Western Weekender helps ensure our print and digital content continues to thrive. You’re supporting journalism at its most raw level, as we continue to tell Penrith’s stories.

Visit www.westernweekender.com.au/pledge

The Experts

DOG DEMENTIA: SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, AND MORE

Just like humans, our beloved canine companions can experience age-related cognitive decline as they grow older.

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), commonly referred to as dog dementia, is a progressive condition that affects a dog’s mental faculties in much the same way as dementia does in humans. As a responsible pet owner, recognising the early signs and making necessary adjustments can help improve your pet’s quality of life.

Recognising the signs of dog dementia

There is no specific age at which dementia develops, but subtle behavioural changes may begin as early as six-years-of-age. If you suspect your dog may be experiencing cognitive decline, a veterinarian will first need to rule out other medical conditions that may present similar symptoms, such as:

• Diabetes

• Cushing’s disease

• High blood pressure

• Hearing and vision loss

• Urinary tract infections

• Kidney disorders

• Arthritis

If other health issues are ruled out, and dementia is suspected, you may notice the following key signs:

Disorientation – A common indicator of dog dementia is disorientation. Your dog may appear lost in familiar surroundings, wander aimlessly, or stand staring at walls, floors, or into space. They might even go to the wrong door expecting to be let outside.

Changes in interaction – Dogs with dementia may become less social, showing decreased interest in people, other pets, and their environment. Some dogs may become more fearful or anxious, while others may seek constant reassurance and attention.

Disrupted sleep patterns – One of the more challenging aspects of canine dementia is its impact on sleep. Affected dogs may struggle to sleep through the night and may pace, whine, or bark when the household is quiet.

Memory and house soiling issues – As cognitive function declines, a dog may forget previously learned behaviours, including house training. Accidents in the home become more frequent, and they may no longer respond to commands as they once did.

Activity level changes – You might notice a decline in your dog’s enthusiasm for exploring

their surroundings or engaging with external stimuli. They may seem less interested in activities they once enjoyed, like playing fetch or going for walks.

How to support a dog with dementia While there is no cure for dog dementia, there are several ways to help manage the condition and provide comfort for your pet:

• Consult your veterinarian about potential medications and nutritional supplements that may help slow cognitive decline.

• Keep a consistent routine to reduce anxiety and confusion.

• Take your dog on walks that engage their senses, allowing them to explore their environment safely.

• Avoid sudden changes in your home’s layout. Keep furniture and essential items like food and water bowls in the same place to prevent disorientation.

• Maintain patience and understanding. Many behaviours associated with dementia, such as house soiling or night-time restlessness, are often mistaken for disobedience.

If you believe your dog may be experiencing dementia, reach out to the compassionate team at Orchard Hills Vet Hospital at 4736 2027 to schedule an appointment.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

After 11 long weeks Mars finally turns direct on Monday, so projects requiring initiative, energy, motivation and enthusiasm should start to pick up speed. Which is particularly good news for Aquarian folk who’ve been feeling like their life has stagnated (or even gone backwards) especially involving work or health. Friday’s New Moon signals a fresh financial chapter as you reboot your budget, pick up extra work or start a savings plan.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

With five planets powering through Pisces (including the New Moon), being flexible is the key to a successful week. If you are too stubborn and unyielding in your opinions, then others will just stop listening to what you have to say. And if you are too slow off the mark (and hesitant to take action) then others will streak ahead of you. So your motto is from fellow Taurean, actress Shirley MacLaine, “Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb. It’s where all the fruit is.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

This week’s stars increase your restless side and your independent streak. Work projects are favoured, as you connect with innovative friends and creative colleagues. Clever Cats will resist the urge to be bossy and self-indulgent. You’re in the mood to take a professional risk or go on a grand adventure but avoid spilling secrets, spreading gossip and saying the first thing that pops into your head. Sometimes silence is golden, and some things are best left unsaid.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Start planning your next weekend escape or holiday, as Mars moves forward in your travel and adventure zone. Opportunities for New Moon growth could come from a child, lover or friend as you realise who has your best interests at heart. It’s also a good time to express your creative side and appreciate the talents of others. Your motto is from movie star Elizabeth Taylor, “There are so many doors to be opened, and I’m not afraid to look behind them.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Dynamic Mars turns direct on Monday, which encourages you to be proactive about a situation involving a child, a romantic relationship, a sporting activity or a creative project. With the Sun, New Moon, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune all illuminating your sign, you’re keen to please others. But avoid the temptation to say ‘yes’ to everyone and everything, like a compliant doormat. You may find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew!

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

You’re keen to connect with work colleagues, clients and/or customers as five planets activate your career zone. It’s a terrific time to converse and communicate, text and tweet. People are waiting to hear what you’ve got to say as you brainstorm your creative ideas. And proactive Mars finally moves forward on Monday, so stop procrastinating and start delivering! Be inspired by birthday great, writer and illustrator Dr Seuss, “Only you can control your future.”

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Don’t be too set in the way you think the week should develop. With Mars and Uranus shaking things up, expect changes or surprises that will keep you on your toes! And – with Mars finally moving forward on Monday – group activities are set to improve as you all work together to achieve a pleasing outcome. A cherished goal or dream could also get the green light, after much worrying, waiting and anticipating. The New Moon focus is on relationships.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Mars moves forward on Monday, so don’t worry about things you can’t control. Be proactive about projects where you can influence the outcome, as your motivation and mojo gradually return. But are you having problems with a family member or housemate? The more you communicate and cooperate (with plenty of patience and compassion) the more positive the relationship will be. But it’s up to you to swallow your pride and make the first move.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Mighty Mars (your patron planet) finally turns direct on Monday. Which is especially welcome news for Aries who have been tired, sick, injured or frustrated over the last 11 weeks that Mars has been retrograde. So it’s time to be bold and brave as you take a smart calculated risk and morph into the adventurous Aries you were born to be. Nothing ventured, nothing gained as you break down barriers and charge at life with plenty of fiery abandon!

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Cancer folk can be super cautious … spending too much time at home in your cosy comfort zone. Especially over the last few weeks, when Mars has been reversing through your sign and you may have felt tired, cranky and unmotivated. This week the Sun, New Moon, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune are all activating your travel and adventure zone, and Mars moves forward on Monday. So it’s time to crawl out of your Crab cave and be much more adventurous.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

After nearly three months, Mars stops reversing through your career zone on Monday. So your Libran motivation will slowly return and stalled work projects should gradually pick up pace. Then Friday’s New Moon stimulates your wellbeing zone, so it’s a wonderful weekend to start a new diet, reboot an exercise program or begin a meditation practice. And remember – good health is the true wealth. With Venus visiting your relationship zone, love is in the air.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

A partnership should gradually improve, as Mars moves forward in your relationship zone on Monday. The more proactive you are about communicating clearly, the better. Then Friday’s New Moon lights up your conversation, education and neighbourhood zone, so it’s a fabulous week to focus, plan, study, organise and strategise. Especially involving joint ventures and projects within your local community. Singles –love and family are linked.

35.

37.

42.

58. Unnerve

59.

61. Incendiary crime

63.

64.

65. Harmful

66. Fence

68. Nudges

71.

72. Stag

74.

76.

78.

80.

83. Disapproving

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our

Word Search

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

SEAPLANE SKY LANTERNS

SPACECRAFT

SWEEP

TILTROTOR

WIND

WINGS

ZEPPELIN

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about Las Vegas in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. Which four NRL teams will play in Las Vegas to kick off the new season?

2. Set in Las Vegas is which reality TV show featuring the likes of Rick and Corey?

3. In what year did Nevada legalise gambling, paving the way for Las Vegas to become the betting capital of the world?

4. Which famous casino was demolished in 2024, and will make way for Bally’s Las Vegas in the coming years?

5. The Mirage closed its doors last year. What is it planning to re-open as?

6. Which Major League Baseball team is relocating to Las Vegas in 2028?

VEUVE CLICQUOT

In the Sun

Enjoy sun soaked moments with champagne sips, Clicquotinspired canapes and a luxe oyster bar while dancing the day away on a superyacht.

Select Saturdays, 12:00-3:30pm

WHAT’S INCLUDED

» Up to 3.5hr Cruise

» A glass of Veuve Clicquot on arrival

» Clicquot inspired canapes

» Top Sydney DJs

CHANDON HARBOUR

Sip, dine and soak in the sun with spirtz in hand on Sydney’s most luxurious superyacht.

Select Saturdays, 12:00-3:30pm

WHAT’S INCLUDED

» Up to 3.5hr Cruise

» Free-flowing Chandon bubbles or Altina nonalcohlic wine

» Long Lunch menu with canapes

» Live music

Catch the Live Race Day action with friends & colleagues in unmatched style.

Tuesday 5 Nov, 12:00-4:00pm

WHAT’S INCLUDED

» Up to 4hr Cruise

» Free-flowing Chandon bubbles

» 3-Course Lunch menu by Celebrity Chef

» 5m LED screens

» Entertainment and DJ

Big goal for Jamo!

23 netball courts resurfaced and improve at Jamison Park

Local netballers will be in for a real treat this winter season with the official completion of upgrades at the netball courts at Jamison Park.

The $876,000 project resurfaced 23 courts and delivered drainage improvements to the complex – supported by $650,000 from the Federal Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and over $225,000 from Penrith City Council.

Finished just in time for the upcoming netball season, the upgrades will improve playing conditions for competitors and create a greater experience for their supporters to spectate.

The resurfaced court surfaces and the construction of a new asphalt swale will help to ensure rainwater is directed away from the courts. This will assist games to resume sooner after wet weather, reducing disruptions to the netball season.

In addition to these works, Council is also in the final stages of installing netball hoops, with the remaining ones set to be in place before the start of the netball season.

“It’s fantastic to see work complete at the Jamison Park Netball Courts, because I know how important having modern, fit-for-purpose facilities is to ensuring the success of local sporting clubs,” Minister for Local

Government, Kristy McBain said.

“Thanks to this project, Jamison Park will remain as the centre of Penrith’s vibrant netball community, supporting all levels of competition.”

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the Jamison Park Netball Courts are a “vital part of our city”.

“These upgrades will support the thousands of people that use these courts every

week during netball season,” he said.

“From local games to state-level competition, these improvements will help ensure that Jamison Park remains a premier venue for netball in Penrith.”

Labor Senator for NSW, Tony Sheldon added: “Netball is more than just a sport – it’s at the heart of the Penrith community, bringing together players, families and supporters every season.”

While there can be downsides to instant fame, like the burnout felt by Jessica prior to Christmas, the Fox sisters know that sort of attention won’t last forever, but if they’re willing to embrace the good times like they are, a suitable balance can easily be found.

“It’s so amazing to come back to that local level – across Penrith and the Blue Mountains,” Noemie said.

“To be able to go to local primary schools especially is something I’ve loved the most, to see how excited and knowledgeable about the Olympics the kids are.

“It’s been so great to meet people and hear about their experience watching the Games. Whether it’s in the coffee line or getting a blood test or anywhere really, it’s nice to have those chats with people because I still kind of pinch myself.”

After a quick trip to Vietnam this week, the Fox sisters will be in action this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Penrith Whitewater Stadium when they compete at the 2025 Paddle Australia Canoe Slalom Australian Open.

Pendragons Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.

At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.

Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.

We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.

Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith

Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384

Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.

Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384

Politicians, Penrith Netball staff and players celebrated the courts’ opening on Tuesday.

Jess and Noemie Fox speak last year.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Penrith right on target as darts grows at extraordinary rate

Visit any pub in the UK and you’ll no doubt stumble upon a game of darts happening somewhere near the bar where the pints are flowing, and the competition is jovial but fierce.

But did you know that this famous English pastime is also building quite a reputation in pubs and clubs in our very backyard?

The Penrith Premier Darts League has been operating for 14 years and, after a slow start, has now become one of the most popular weeknight sports in the local area. “I soon discovered that darts was four nights.

“We are growing at a phenomenal rate here in Penrith. We have 152 players at the Gaels Club and over 60 people at Kingswood Sports Club,”

“When we started, our demographic was males between 30-60-years-old. But now that is changing. We have more younger players and a lot more women.

“When we began, we had two registered women, now we have 36. We’ve attracted the state’s number one women’s player in Andrea

Hendley and the number one men’s player in Craig Scarfe.”

Martin can’t quite put his finger on what exactly has made darts explode in the Penrith area in recent years, but he puts a lot of it down to the “Luke Littler effect”.

“One of the big factors, I think, is a guy in England called Luke Littler, who only just turned 18,” he said.

“Luke’s been this worldwide phenomenon and he’s driving people to play the game. It’s amazing what he’s done for darts, even here in Australia.”

The Penrith Premier Darts League has no signs of slowing down either, with a potential fifth night being negotiated at another local venue. The sport has become extremely lucrative for local pubs and clubs, which can often be quiet throughout the week.

“Darts is a sport where you don’t have to be a champion… you can just get up and do it,” Martin said.

“Our Monday night comp is full, but any other night we can take people on. We find most become addicted very quickly.”

Breakfast with Ron Wilson 5:30am - 9am

NATHAN TAYLOR

Darts is hugely popular around the Penrith area.

Darts players are filling pubs and clubs every night during the week.

SPORTS SHORTS

A splashy new way to keep fit

ACQUAPOLE: Sydney Gymnastic and Aquatic Centre (SGAC) at Rooty Hill’s West HQ is redefining workouts with the launch of Acquapole, an exciting aquatic fitness experience making its splashy debut this week. Forget the monotony of the gym or swimming laps, Acquapole combines the resistance of water with the strength-building benefits of pole fitness for a workout that’s effective, accessible and a whole lot of fun. Brad Vella, Aquatics Manager at SGAC, said Acquapole, which was designed in Italy, has proven to be a big hit in Europe given its ability to build strength, improve flexibility and enhance coordination while being gentle on joints. “It’s a workout like no other, combining the strength-building benefits of pole fitness with the natural resistance of water for a full-body experience that’s enjoyable as it is effective,” he said. “It’s perfect for anyone looking to try something new, from seasoned fitness lovers to those just starting their wellness journey.” The introduction of Acquapole is part of West HQ’s larger mission to bring cutting-edge fitness experiences to western Sydney. Acquapole is one of four innovative aquatic fitness programs now available at SGAC, alongside Acquapole Boxing, Acquapole Elastics and SAF AQUA Drum Vibes, each offering a unique and engaging way to work out in the water.

DIVING: Penrith-born Olympic diver Melissa Wu has announced her retirement from the sport after more than two decades. The 32-yearold said she’s leaving the sport, which sometimes proved to be as cruel to her as it was kind, without any regret. “When I started out at 13, I could never have imagined my career would last this long,” she said. “I’ve been so lucky to have a long career, and even though I dealt with a lot of injuries I went to five consecutive Olympics. You can’t ask for anything better than that. I’m fortunate because while I’m retiring, I feel as though I didn’t leave any stone unturned. It’s a great way to walk away.” Diving Australia High Performance Director Steve Foley said Woo’s legacy within the sport in Australia and globally cannot be underestimated. “Mel made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics becoming the first Australian diver to compete at five Olympics but her contribution to our sport far transcends her results in the pool,” he said. “She has been a role model for our next generation divers for many years now and will continue to do so beyond her retirement. Diving is a precise and, at times, brutal sport demanding perfection and constant focus and dedication and we cannot thank Mel enough for what she has brought to Australian diving in and out of

the pool.” Throughout her career, Woo won two Olympic medals, five Commonwealth Games medals, three World Championships medals and five World Cup medals.

CRICKET: Penrith have enjoyed a strong start against Sydney in Round 14 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. Sydney batted well on day one but were ultimately dismissed for 150. Samuel Grant was a beast with the ball, taking a scintillating 6/27. When Penrith hit the crease later that day, they were a respectable 2/91 at stumps. Skipper Ryan Gibson w ill resume on 24 when play gets back underway this Saturday morning.

CRICKET: Manly have cruised to victory over Penrith in Round 16 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a One-Day

match at Manly Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bat. Penrith struggled early, with their two openers out for a duck. The team began to recover but, in the end, only managed 114 before being dismissed. Ella Tilburg scored 26 for Penrith. When Manly hit the crease later that day, they reached Penrith’s target with eight wickets in hand. The Lady Cats will return to Howell Oval this Sunday morning to face St George-Sutherland.

CRICKET: Round 14 of the Nepean District Cricket Association competition wrapped up last weekend, with Panthers Cricket Club suffering a first innings loss to Emu Plains. A sub-standard batting effort saw Panthers dismissed for just 91 runs in 35 overs, chasing Emu Plains’ 161. Emu Plains batted a second innings to be 5/35, but there would be no time for an outright result. Fortunately for Panthers, other results went their way allowing them to play in the semi-finals this weekend.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers are back in business, securing a much-needed 2-1 victory last Sunday over the Macarthur Bulls at CommBank Stadium. Western Sydney fell behind in the second half after an unfortunate Anthony Pantazopoulos own goal, but two goals in 10 minutes from Nicolas Milanovic and Gabriel Cleur secured the Wanderers’ first comeback win of the season, giving them a crucial three points in the process. Alen Stajcic named an unchanged starting side that suffered heartbreak in the Sydney Derby the week before, and the attack and defence were both involved in the game early on. The

Wanderers will look to capitalise on last week’s result when they battle the Central Coast Mariners this Saturday in Gosford.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers are still celebrating this week after winning back-to-back games for the first time this season and moving off the bottom of the A-League Women’s table. Following their recent win over Brisbane, the Wanderers backed it up with an outstanding performance over Newcastle 4-1. The Wanderers may have fallen behind early on, but their response was superb as they scored four unanswered goals to win their second game on the bounce. After a season of little luck, the Wanderers are beginning to build momentum, and will look to continue the run after the upcoming international break when they travel north to face Central Coast.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 3 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend with disappointing results for Penrith’s Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaola teams. In the Tarsha Gale Cup, Penrith were smashed by the Wests Tigers 26-4. In the Lisa Fiaola Cup, the Panthers were pipped by the Tigers 28-24. Both sides will take on the Manly Sea Eagles this Saturday at 4 Pines Park in Brookvale.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 3 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend with mixed results for Penrith’s SG Ball and Harold Matthews teams. In the SG Ball Cup, Newcastle were too good for the Panthers 26-14. In the Harold Matthews Cup, the Panthers came from behind to beat the Knights 22-14. Penrith’s SG Ball team will play the Balmain Tigers this Friday night at Windsor Sports Complex, while the Panthers Harold Matts team will face-off against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday morning at Henson Park.

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au.

Acquapole is the hot new sport happening at West HQ. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Melissa Wu says goodbye to diving.

The Wanderers enjoy victory last Sunday.

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

SPORT

LIFE AS THE FOX SISTERS

When sisters Jessica and Noemie Fox won Olympic gold in Paris last year, they became household names right across the country.

While Jessica was a familiar face to pretty much everyone already, her younger sister Noemie was well and truly thrust into the spotlight when she took home gold in the exciting new paddling discipline of kayak cross.

After their incredible triumphs in Paris and doing the nation proud back home, the pair returned to Australia as sporting heroes and subsequently their lives changed forever.

The Fox sisters were seen everywhere in the months that followed the Olympics. From corporate functions to fashion shoots and television appearances, the world couldn’t – and still can’t – get enough of these two talented and humble women from Penrith.

“It’s been amazing and hectic and a whirlwind, but it’s fantas-

tic being home,” Jessica said.

“Over the last six months, I’ve been enjoying different opportunities and trying my hand at a few different things. It’s amazing to be home and to continue celebrating Paris.”

When the 30-year-old wasn’t flying all over the country speaking at various lavish corporate events, she was also presenting the sport on Channel Nine’s ‘Today’ program as well as being a colour reporter for the Australian Open.

“I’ve always enjoyed working in the media and working at the tennis with Nine was awesome!” she said.

“I got to be a colour reporter for a week. It was a great experience; it was hard work, but I enjoyed the variety as well.”

Her sister Noemie was also treated to an array of new opportunities as her profile began to soar following her gold medal-winning performance on the whitewater.

A relative unknown prior to Paris, Noemie has also been filling her spare time at events, like the recent AACTA Awards on the Gold Coast.

“It’s been so incredible to say

‘yes’ to new opportunities that have come my way and enjoy the little glams and perks that come with it, but at the end of the day, I’m also back at train ing, back to 7am on the water,” she said.

One thing Noemie was able to do before the Olympics was head to her favourite coffee shop or pick up some grocer ies without anyone batting an eyelid. The 27-year-old said everything changed the moment she returned home.

“There’s definitely some times when I think I need to be presentable every time that I go out, but the worst is when you go out late night supermarket shopping with your hair post training and you get stopped for a photo and you go ‘oh gosh, oh really?’,” Noemie said.

“Coming back from Paris, it was a big shift and quite overwhelming… just the number of online messages and then in person. It was going from zero to 100. But now it’s slowed down, so I do enjoy when I have a chat with people that recognise me.”

Story continues on » p. 61

NATHAN TAYLOR

las vegas

PENRITH READY FOR SIN CITY OPENER

The Panthers have done some pretty wild things during this incredible Premiership run.

The drama of the COVID pandemic, and winning a Grand Final at Suncorp Stadium of all places.

That comeback against the Broncos. The scary injuries, the moments where all hopes appeared dashed.

And now, perhaps the craziest of them all: playing an NRL premiership match in Las Vegas, something you would have got locked up for suggesting not so long ago.

But this is rugby league in 2025. Adventurous, willing to try new things, desperate to become a global game.

And if the NFL – America’s number one sport – can play eight or so games overseas in the one season, there’s no reason this whole Las Vegas thing can’t be a winner.

“It’s a credit to our chairman, Peter V’landys, who is always thinking about ways in which we can grow rugby league – not just the NRL competition, but globally,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said of the Vegas venture, now in its second year.

“If you think about the logistics that have to go

into this, in terms of time zones, in terms of the field, and in terms of a quadruple header with both competitions playing live rounds for points, and an international women’s game, in an American stadium set up for Gridiron, there were a fair number of challenges.”

The Vegas schedule this year will see Wigan and Warrington face-off in an English Super League game, Australia play England in an historic women’s Test, and two NRL matches – the Raiders up against the Warriors and the Panthers taking on Cronulla in the feature match.

“The exciting thing is we’re offering four new clubs, and their fan bases and their members, an opportunity to experience what we got to experience in 2024, which was a magnificent event,” Abdo said.

“Now we’re adding a women’s international with the Jillaroos against England, plus a Super League fixture.

“I’m not aware of any previous occasion where we’ve had premiership points up for grabs in Super League and in the NRL at the same time, so we’re going to have rugby league fans from all over the world coming to see something unique.”

The NRL is hopeful of attracting a crowd well over 45,000 for the games this year.

A Fan Hub has been set up at Resorts World that will be a central meeting point for fans. It opens from 11am Wednesday, February 26.

Nathan Cleary will be one of the stars of the show in Vegas. Photo: NRL Photos.

the players

HENRY IS DETERMINED TO BE BETTER

Liam Henry may not be entirely comfortable abseiling down the side of a cliff on a team bonding camp, but he does feel right at home running into an opposition at top speed and cutting players in half.

Following his breakout season last year, the 23-year-old is ready to do it all over again when the 2025 NRL season officially arrives next week.

The boy from Blayney played a whopping 24 games with the Panthers last year, only missing a handful of matches in his first full season in the top grade.

Speaking with the Weekender, Henry said he spent some time in the recent off-season reflecting on his incredible 2024 campaign, which concluded with his first NRL Premiership ring.

“It was a surreal year,” Henry admitted.

“Plenty of ups and downs and learnings along the way – I still can’t believe it!

“I got a couple of weeks after the season to reflect, and yes it was definitely something special.”

With 27 NRL appearances in total under his belt, the interchange forward’s career is only just getting

his own list of goals and targets that he’s set himself ahead of season 2025.

“You’re constantly trying to grow and get better,” he said.

“There’s plenty of areas that I need to grow and get better in from last year – that’s what I’ve been trying to work on over the pre-season.

“I want to evolve as a person and as a player.

“I love the opportunity to grow and there’s no better place to do it than here. I’m very lucky.”

Meanwhile, it’s been revealed that Henry is in some doubt for Penrith’s season opener in Las Vegas next week. The big man had off-season surgery to repair a rotator-cuff, and it might not be quite ready for the

fixture. Regardless of his playing status, Henry said he’s looking forward to heading over to Sin City for the first time.

“I’ve never been there before. It’s a bit exciting and one to look forward to,” he said.

“We saw the games last year, and watching those games, it looked awesome! I can’t wait to see what all the hype is about.”

With scores of Panthers fans all making the trip across the Pacific in the coming days, Henry said he’s very appreciative of their dedication and support.

“We have a massive supporter base at Penrith, and to anyone heading over, we really appreciate it,” Henry

Liam Henry is ready to pick up where he left off.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Nathan Taylor chats with Liam Henry.

NATHAN TAYLOR

the players

ONE MISSION IN LAS VEGAS: VICTORY

Since arriving at the foot of the Mountains two seasons ago, life has been nothing but a dream for Panthers backrower Luke Garner.

In 2023, he won his first NRL Grand Final and then backed it up with a proposal to his beautiful partner Ashley. And in 2024, he conquered the NRL once more with Penrith and tied the knot just weeks later.

To say Garner’s tenure at the Panthers has been short but sweet would be a massive understatement, but the Queenslander isn’t taking anything for granted.

“The past couple of years have been pretty crazy,” the 29-year-old told the Weekender

“’23 Grand Final and got engaged and ’24 Grand Final and got married. It’s getting better and better!

“Hopefully ’25 is another big step in my life and we can get another one done.”

Whether that’s a baby, a premiership ring or both, time will tell, but it’s clear that the former Wests Tigers forward has well and truly found a home for himself at the Panthers.

Garner said after an off-season spent honeymooning in beautiful Italy, it was a challenge to return to pre-season training initially.

“There were definitely moments where I wanted the off-season to last longer because I knew what was ahead of me at pre-season training, but after a while that feeling passed and I was pretty keen to get fit again and see my

mates every day,” he said.

While there was plenty of hot and humid days running up and down the Penrith Rugby League Academy training field this summer, the Panthers also trekked out to Katoomba in January for a two-day bonding camp that

involved abseiling and canyoning. Garner said some of his non-adventurous teammates were out of their comfort zone a little.

“I’ve done a bit of abseiling before, so it wasn’t super scary for me, it was actually pretty enjoyable and fun,” he said.

“We obviously had professional guides with us and they make you feel really comfortable.

“There were a few boys that were definitely out of their comfort zone though, but we just got around them and they enjoyed by the end.”

Rugby league clubs are synonymous for bonding camps that are designed to test one’s limits, with Garner admitting they can be hugely beneficial when under pressure during a game.

“I think it can be [beneficial] being put in different positions where your fatiguing or your physically or mentally challenged,” Garner said.

“Some of the boys have a fear of heights and then have to overcome that. Like I said, you just rally around each other, create that team environment and get through it together.”

Garner and the rest of his teammates will be going on the adventure of their lives this week when they travel to Las Vegas for the NRL season opener.

Garner, no stranger to the fun of the Vegas Strip, said he can’t wait to return to the famous American city and prepare for their clash against the Sharks.

“I think it would be tough if you had to miss the Vegas trip… you’d be pretty upset,” he said.

“I went to Vegas about five years ago and I’m looking forward to getting back there. It will be a different trip this time around though.

“It will be cool to look back one day and say I played at Allegiant Stadium. I’ll be a kid in a candy shop when I’m there, but ultimately, we want to win the game and that’s what we are there for!”

Luke Garner is excited to play in Las Vegas next weekend.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Legend has it that Panthers great Royce Simmons once told a reporter he trained on Christmas Day. When asked why? Simmo simply smiled and said; “Because I knew my rivals for the Australian hooking spot wouldn’t and that gave me an advantage.”

Royce was definitely ahead of his time when it came to the importance of pre-season training. For many years it was seen as a necessary evil especially during the days when the game was not yet fully professional.

Stories have been told of several players in the ‘80s taking a cab when asked to go on a brutal training run through the city.

Oh, how things have changed.

A good tough pre-season can set a side up for a successful run at the title or, at the very least, a top eight finish.

It all begins in the pre-season.

It’s no secret that the Panthers are renowned for their tough, grinding pre-season training sessions. The fact they often run these sessions in the humidity and heat of a Penrith summer makes their achievements even more impressive.

You see, Ivan Cleary and the coaching staff are not only master tacticians during the season, the importance they place on training smarter AND harder during the

Former Panther James Maloney recently said that the Panthers are the fittest side in the competition and that’s what makes them so dangerous. Their decision making under fatigue during premiership matches, particularly in defence, is second to none.

Ivan deserves all the credit for the team’s recent success and how he prepares the side for a long season can’t be ignored.

However, the seeds of tough Penrith pre-season training can be traced back to when Anthony Griffin was coach in 2016. During a gruelling run at Jamison Park,

centre Waqa Blake came back from the break a lot heavier than he should have and finished way behind the other backs. He was told in no uncertain terms by Griffin, “If you don’t shape up I’m going to start you in the forwards.”

Pretty soon the whole team started to embrace the tough new philosophy but there were still teething problems. It’s been reported that current Head of Pathways Lee Hopkins almost quit when he observed a player taking a phone call during a weights session.

Before too long it was the players themselves that were keeping the standards high and it didn’t matter if you were new to the club either.

Former Panther Jarome Luai was rumoured to have told then new recruit Jaemon Salmon in 2021 to ‘‘F**k off back to the Eels” when he fell behind on a training run.

Over the last five years pre-season training standards at Penrith have become even higher. You just have to read the comments of players who have come to the club recently to see that.

It took former Tiger Luke Garner almost a full season to get acclimatised to how his new club trained and played. It almost broke him.

Now it’s true, you can’t win a premiership in the pre-season, but you sure as hell can lose one.

summer cannot be overlooked.

Peter Wallace is a member of Penrith’s coaching staff.

with Peter Lang

panther rumblings

NRL REACHES OUT TO TRUMP

! Trump’s Vegas invite: He couldn’t get Prince Charles to the races, but Peter V’landys is hopeful he may convince Donald Trump to see Nathan Cleary land a couple of sideline conversions in Las Vegas. The NRL has extended an invite to Trump to attend its Las Vegas season opener next weekend. It was all in place before the little TV stunt with Fox News this week. The NRL is doubtful Trump will attend, but it would be a massive coup for the game if he did.

! Seats back for launch: The Panthers reverted to a sit-down season launch this year, after feedback from sponsors that the ‘mingle’ style of previous events, especially last year, missed the mark.

! Marto gets call-up: Talking of season launches, the Panthers opted to send forward Liam Martin to the NRL season launch earlier this month rather than either of the side’s co-captains. We can only imagine what Marto is chatting to NRL CEO Andrew Abdo about here. The NRL’s launch was reasonably low key, held at 8am on a Monday morning. It’s certainly been a scaled back event in recent years.

! Lost ring: I keep hearing that a four-time Panthers Premiership winner has lost his 2024 ring from the Grand Final. Apparently he lost it within days of the win over Melbourne.

! Forgotten Hall of Fame: Will we see the long-awaited revival of the Panthers Hall of Fame this year? It has to be one of the most bizarre missteps in terms of Panthers history that this has just been forgotten about over the years. Grahame Moran, Royce Simmons, Greg Alexander and Craig Gower were the inaugural Hall of Fame inductees in 2016, with a promise players would be added progressively over time. But not a single player has been added since that night in 2016 and the concept seems to have been forgotten. It’s something that needs to be revived and properly recognised,

especially considering the eastern grandstand featuring the four original inductees’ names will soon be torn down.

! Whispers growing: I keep hearing whispers that a major figure in the Panthers’ administration will call it quits later this year. Watch this space.

! Keeping close: Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is still close with Warriors coach and former Panthers assistant, Andrew Webster. So much so that Webster house sat for Cleary over the summer.

! Podcast returns: Troy Dodds and Nathan Taylor have been back with their Tension’s Running High podcast for a few weeks now. Make sure you listen in each Wednesday by searching Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts, and hitting subscribe. You can also head to www.westernweekender.com. au/podcast.

! Vegas bound: The Panthers fly out to Las Vegas today, giving themselves plenty of time to get ready for next weekend’s season opener against Cronulla at Allegiant Stadium. The team will settle in Vegas straight away, opting against the idea of a camp elsewhere in the US.

! Fox schedule stays stable: Fox League has opted against any changes to its schedule this year, sticking with the same general format as recent years. Braith Anasta and Gorden Tal-

lis will host ‘NRL 360’ Monday to Wednesday from 6.30pm, while ‘Face to Face’, ‘The Fan’, ‘The Late Show With Matty Johns’ and ‘NRLW On Fox’ are all back. Yvonne Sampson (pictured) will of course be the face of the network when it comes to game days. I’m still hearing Fox may use Ray Hadley in same format this year – we’ll have to wait and see.

! Spill the tea: As always I want to hear your news, gossip and thoughts in 2025. You can email me at maskedpanther@western weekender.com.au. I don’t keep secrets, but I do protect my sources.

! Spotted: Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, his wife Bec and daughter Indi at Accor Stadium for the Luke Combs concert earlier this month.

The President and the Chairman.

PANTHERS LAUNCH NEW SEASON WITH

he Penrith Panthers held their official 2025 season launch in early February at the Western Sydney Conference Centre. Thanks to Penrith Panthers, here’s some of the best photos from the night...

Guests arrive for the season launch.

Bill McDeed from Gourmet Meat Company with Luron Patea and Moses Leota.

Panthers Chairman Peter Graham with Badgerys Creek MP Tanya Davies and Mark Davies.

Panthers Foundation staff at the event.

Brian To’o and his wife Moesha.

Ivan Cleary and Bec Cleary.

PLENTY OF STYLE

Courtenay and Isabelle.

Eather Group representatives with Lindsay Smith and Liam Henry.

Corporate partners arrive at the event.

Billy Scott and partner with the NRL trophy. Isaah Yeo with Ash Camenzuli.