Western Weekender February 8 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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FIGHTING BACK

Meet the police officers determined to end Penrith’s domestic violence epidemic. Nicola Barton reports on page 6.

FAIR FINE? You be the judge SEE PAGE 7

BEING GLADYS Premier’s pitch to Penrith SEE PAGE 14-15

FESTIVAL FUN Fox leads the charge SEE PAGE 64

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Four men refused bail after vicious attack leaves man in critical condition TROY DODDS

our men have been charged over the horrific attack on a man in the car park of a McDonald’s restaurant in Penrith last weekend. 32- year- old Shannan Rushworth, from Kingswood, was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after he and a friend were allegedly set upon by a group of men at around 1.30 on Sunday morning. His friend, a 34- year- old man, suffered minor facial injuries. The incident occurred in the car park of the McDonald’s near Panthers Leagues Club on Mulgoa Road. Video footage of the attack was spread on social media while police obtained CCTV footage from the restaurant. On Wednesday, police executed two search warrants at St Clair and Glenmore Park. Four men, aged between 19 and 22, were later arrested at Penrith Police Station. A 19-year- old St Clair man was charged with ‘cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent’, and ‘affray’. A 19- year- old Glenmore Park man was charged with ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of others’, ‘affray’, and ‘common assault’.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Car park attackers caught

Detective Acting Inspector Steve Peroni appeals for public assistance with the case last weekend. Photo: Megan Dunn A 20- year- old Glenmore Park man was charged with ‘cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent’, ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of others’, and ‘affray’. Another 20-year-old Glenmore Park man

was charged with ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of others’, and ‘affray’. All four men were refused bail to appear in Penrith Local Court yesterday. Mr Rushworth, a former Penrith Emus

rugby union player, suffered serious head injuries but it is expected he will recover, largely thanks to the quick action of witnesses at the scene who provided medical attention before paramedics arrived.

Exclusive: Instinct kicked in for hero nurses who gave CPR to attack victim in minutes following sickening car park incident

osh Gately and his wife Lee were grabbing a bite to eat at McDonald’s after a night out when all hell broke loose in the early hours of last Sunday morning. Both nurses, they were the first to provide medical assistance to Shannan Rushworth in the moments after he was attacked by a group of five youths in the car park of the fast food restaurant. “Once we saw him getting his head stomped on and the potential injuries that can go on with that sort of stuff, your

work brain takes over and you don’t really think about it. You just head out there and do what you need to do to make sure he’s OK,” Mr Gately told the Weekender. “It was just automated, we didn’t really think about anything else that was going on around us. Thankfully with both of us having that same mindset it was quite easy to manage the situation with the pair of us there.” Mr Gately and his wife did what they could to help Mr Rushworth while paramedics and police rushed to the scene. “He was breathing at that stage, but he

had pretty significant facial and head injuries,” he said. “We decided to roll him and put him in a recovery position... but after about 20 to 30 seconds he stopped breathing and had no heartbeat. “We put him straight back on his back and started CPR. We probably got two to three cycles of CPR in and got a heartbeat back and he was breathing as the ambulance pulled up. We had him back just as they arrived so then they managed him from there.” Had the pair not stepped in to help Mr

Rushworth the end result could have been very different. Mr Gately said he had grave concerns for the 32- year- old from Kingswood, who police believe did not know his attackers. “We were really concerned on the night that Shannan wouldn’t actually make it to the hospital,” he said. Despite his heroics last Sunday morning, Mr Gately said it was simply an automated and instinct-driven response. “It’s not anything different to what we normally do... just a bit more public obviously,” he said.

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Editor’s Desk

Issue 1388

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Journalist: Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Journalist: Nicola Barton | @nicolabarton123 Journalist: Emily Feszczuk | @emilyfeszczuk Photographer: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Daniel Vella, Tracey Machut, Chris Middleton To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production Manager: Kacey Wilson | kacey.wilson@westernweekender.com.au Production: Claire Catacouzinos, Ian Beard

Administration: Sarah Coates, Jennifer Zuleni

The Western Weekender is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Facebook stole our empathy W hen I started editing the Weekender 10 years ago, our Facebook presence was slim at best. The odd weather update, a news story here and there, maybe a little selfpromotion. Now, the social media platform – which on Monday celebrated 15 years since Mark Zuckerberg launched the concept from his college dorm room – is a big part of what we do. With more than 40,000 followers and a much larger interaction base, Facebook has become a platform to share our stories to a wider audience, run breaking news and sport, live video content and of course engage with readers. But like most media organisations, it comes with its challenges. We often talk of the dangers our kids face online, whether it be in chat rooms, on social media or just from general surfing – a few words typed innocently into a keyboard can take you on a rather scary path without too much thought. But outside of that, another problem lurks within Facebook: Adults who appear to lose all semblance of normality, empathy and common sense when it comes to commenting on content they see on social media. These are grown men and women, many of whom I presume have jobs with serious responsibilities, children who they raise and care for, and households they maintain. Yet online, it’s as if the gates were left open at the local zoo. Take for example a couple of sad stories that occurred last weekend. The first, the death of a 22- month- old toddler who was left in a hot car outside a Chester Hill home.

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“What you say on Facebook is no different to saying it in any other public forum”

All indications are this was a tragic accident. Stories like this have happened before – a simple slip of the mind or miscommunication can have tragic and irreparable consequences. But empathy was the last thing on the minds of most people as they commented across news stories last weekend. The Facebook jury had decided – this was bad parenting, full stop. And what about the Ben Barba story? Barba is clearly a troubled individual who it would appear needs some serious help, but the vitriol thrown at his partner online has been quite astonishing. Walking away sounds like the easy and sensible option, but as many people in this very community know, it is often a lot tougher than it seems. Here is a woman who needs empathy, support and guidance, yet online she was thrown insults and abuse by strangers. Facebook has stolen our empathy, and

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robbed us of our understanding and our ability to fairly weigh up issues and debates. And it would appear it has taken our filter, too. Recently, when a Glenmore Park man was arrested and charged over serious child sex issues, locals commenced to post his address online – blind to the legal issues, potential serious ramifications and the ignorance it showed. The worst offenders? ‘Private’ groups, often based hyper-locally, which go as far as promoting vigilante justice. Newsflash: What you say on Facebook is no different to saying it in any other public forum. You can be sued, and face very serious ramifications yourself. Worse, you could contribute to getting a criminal off on a technicality. 15 years on from the launch of Facebook, and about a decade on from when it seriously started playing a major role in our lives, are we better or worse off? There is no doubt it has changed the way we communicate, learn and engage with others online. But whether or not that’s for the better, the jury is perhaps still out. However, as we confront significant issues like cyber bullying, equality and the #metoo movement, there is no doubt that the rise of social media and its rogue users is a serious player in the debate. Discussion forums had their hey day, chat rooms spiked and then dropped in popularity, blogs rose and fell... now social media is at its crossroads. Here to say? Perhaps, but as the next generation comes through, you’d have to wonder if they purely see it as a platform for abuse and hatred, versus anything that could do them any good.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

“We’ve lost our voice” The loophole that will allow six villas to be built in a quiet Leonay street NICOLA BARTON

Leonay residents are unhappy about a proposed development in Fairway Avenue. Photo: Melinda Jane a school, knocking down mature trees as well as overdevelopment and compliance issues. Penrith Councillor Karen McKeown met with 25 residents to discuss Council’s power in the situation. “The developments are now handled by delegated authorities such as Council officers, or they go to a local planning panel. Once upon a time if there was

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enough objection Councillors could debate it, a report would be written and we could ask for conditions, but with the new planning laws that can’t happen anymore, communities have lost their voice,” she said. The new laws put the power in the hands of Council officers, but if a significant amount of objections are received it goes to a local planning panel which is made

up of one local and other individuals appointed by the State Government. “We’ve got people making decisions about what our local neighbourhoods look like and they don’t even live here,” Cr McKeown said. The residents have garnered 500 signatures on a petition that opposes the development. Council will only consider this as one single objection.

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oncerned Leonay residents feel they have lost their voice in a battle against a developer’s plans for an over 55s village in their suburb. A development application has been lodged with Penrith Council for six dwellings on the corner of Fairway Avenue and Linksview Drive, which locals think will be the starting gun for overdevelopment in the area. As the neighbours investigated how such a high density project could be approved in their street, they discovered a loophole that allows over 55s villas to override local planning instruments. The residents also don’t necessarily have to be over 55-years-old. “It’s supposed to be a low density street, no person can consider that as low density. The concern then is that if this goes ahead it will be a sense of precedent for jamming a lot of properties on blocks all over,” Leonay resident Tony Best said. “People were quite expecting there to be new houses on the block, perhaps three dwellings but to find out there is six is absolutely outrageous.” Their biggest concerns are for potential congestion due to the close proximity of

Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

Tackling Penrith’s shame Meet the local police desperate to put an end to our domestic violence crisis NICOLA BARTON

hese are some of the officers determined to rid the Penrith region of its domestic violence scourge. One sergeant and six dedicated constables are the muscle that make up the Nepean Police Area Command Domestic Violence Team, dedicating their lives to freeing individuals from life-threatening relationships. In 2017-2018, 126,650 domestic violence cases were reported and 30,359 AVO applications launched across the state. Detective Sergeant Steven Peroni could not release the exact data for the Penrith region but said they are the busiest unit by far. “We see the daily impact domestic violence has on families and children. If people want advice, not necessarily the victims but want to run it by us, we are experts in this field and are more than happy to help,” he said. Aside from offering victim support, each day the team go through a stepby- step process to tackle each case that comes their way. They review all of the incidents, conduct compliance checks to ensure people are sticking to their conditions,

follow up with offenders as well as meet up and liaise with agencies. “People might be reluctant to reach out because they are worried about the consequences, but there are a lot of things we can do anonymously that allow us to offer services and support without getting legally involved,” Senior Constable Tania Rothwell said. “Our main focus is to try and build rapport to make them feel comfortable enough to reach out.” Senior Constable Rothwell said they currently receive more reports than ever and paid credit to improved services and information for this. As it stands 17.3 per cent of domestic violent partners are repeat offenders. The Nepean PAC have launched an offender referral program, which seeks to rehabilitate individuals through assistance and services to combat underlying factors such as drug and alcohol problems. The team urge the community to look for the tell-tale signs such as a change in personality, injuries, denial and isolation. They also remind residents that domestic violence comes in all forms including intimate partners of all sexual orientations, family members and elder abuse.

Bizarre call to grant bail to two men who attacked police

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Senior Constable Smith, Senior Constable Karen Barclay, Sergeant Michael Cotten, Senior Constable Tania Rothwell and Senior Constable Luke Keir at St Marys Police Station. Photo: Melinda Jane

SW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller says he’s frustrated by a decision to grant bail to two men who attacked police officers in Penrith last weekend. About 2.20am on Sunday, two officers were in an unmarked police vehicle leaving a crime scene on Mulgoa Road, when two men allegedly crossed the road in front of the car. The vehicle stopped to pick up another officer and a short time later it’s alleged one of the men standing on the road, aged 22, ran towards the car and kicked the door panel. The driver, a male sergeant attached to the Nepean Proactive Crime Team, exited the vehicle. As he attempted to arrest the 22-year- old man, there was a physical altercation. The other officers in the vehicle, both senior constables, exited the car to assist. It’s further alleged a 26- year - old man intervened and head- butted the sergeant, before the younger man punched him in the face.

Additional police attended and the men were arrested after OC spray was deployed. Both men were hit with multiple charges over the incident, but were granted conditional bail by a bail sergeant at Penrith Police Station. Speaking on Radio 2GB earlier this week, Mr Fuller said he was struggling to understand the granting of bail. “We’ve done a lot of training, we’ve got a bail assistance tool that’s supposed to be there to help us,” he said. “And of course, we’re not going to get every one right but in the last six months there have been too many that I think we should have refused bail.” Mr Fuller said the bail issues have been discussed by senior members of the Police Force as recently as last week at a planning session. “For hours we talked about this – it’s not something that is lost on me,” he said. “Any time when you get a decision when our own police are unhappy with how we’re applying the law, there is something wrong.” The men who were charged are due to appear in court on Tuesday, February 26.

Man vanishes after leaving hospital Police are searching for a man who went missing after leaving Nepean Hospital bound for a South Penrith home on Wednesday morning. There are concerns for the welfare

of Anthony East, 51, due to issues surrounding his health. Mr East is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of large build, with short brown hair.

Local resident’s fury over school zone fine on day students were enjoying holidays NICOLA BARTON

hen Glenmore Park resident Stephen Wilkinson was checking his mail, he was shocked to find that he had been busted for speeding in a school zone – on a day when students were enjoying the start of school holidays. On Friday, December 21 last year, Mr Wilkinson was driving northbound on Parker Street near St Dominic’s College at about 3pm. Travelling at 57km/h, he thought he was well within the speed limit, knowing school had broken up more than a week earlier. As a self- employed business owner, Mr Wilkinson was overcome with uncertainty as he relies heavily on his licence for his work and if the fine was correct he was guaranteed to lose it. “There were no lights flashing and no kids around, no usual school traffic and so close to Christmas I didn’t think anything of it,” he said. “I received the letter in the mail, I had no idea and it was just devastating because for me losing eight points will see my licence out, forcing me to be off the road for three months or so because I’ve had one other fine before.” Due to the holiday period, double demer-

Stephen Wilkinson believes his speeding fine was unfair. Photo: Melinda Jane

its were in place at the time of the incident, meaning a loss of eight points and a fine of $460. “I can take it to court and appeal it but then there would be legal fees on top of all that,” he said. “I assume many others were caught and if someone is going through financial hardship the last thing they need is a surprise like this, and if they rely on their licence for work like I do it creates big ongoing issues.” A spokesperson from the Roads and Maritime Services said the date was a gazetted staff development day and thus the school zone road rules still applied. “School zones are in place on publicly notified school days including school development days. It is important to remember that government schools must accept students on all publicly notified school days including pupil free and development days,” the spokesperson said. Mr Wilkinson submitted his fine for review but it was rejected as the date of his offence was considered the official last day of term. Mr Wilkinson is hoping his story will lend as a warning to other motorists. Was the fine fair or not? Your view: news@westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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What’s really in a name? Residents of Cranebrook’s Waterside Estate want their own suburb name NICOLA BARTON

esidents of Waterside Estate are calling for a suburb name- change claiming they were not told they would be considered a part of Cranebrook when buying into the area. Some members of the community have turned to the Waterside Estate Facebook group where they shared similar stories of confusion over the suburb name. The area features five lakes, a swimming pool, parklands and 694 high- density dwellings, all on 57 hectares of land. 69- year- old Jenny Basford, who has lived in the estate for eight years, said she instantly fell in love with the area and placed a deposit on her home the first day she visited. “We’ve never regretted it, we’ve got such a fabulous community here, good neighbours and friendships that we would have never had imagined at our age, not to mention the beautiful ambience of the place,” she said. Mrs Basford and her husband Trevor are part of a group of residents who would like the suburb renamed to Waterside Green. “We thought it was going to be called Waterside Green but we were mistaken. It was advertised as that, but once the

Waterside Estate is considered part of Cranebrook. Photo: Melinda Jane contract came through it no longer did and had Cranebrook attached to it,” she said. “I think I want the name to be changed because this is what we were told and thought it would be called and it really appealed to me. We’ve heard a lot of misgivings about Cranebrook, so we didn’t think we’d be called that. “In saying that you get the good and the bad everywhere, but it’s just better suited,

we’re surrounded by five lakes, it really is a beautiful waterside.” Residents lodged requests to Penrith Council, but were knocked back due to the size of the estate. “The request does not comply with a number of principles that would warrant a new suburb name, the most significant being locality boundaries shall be of a reasonable size for practical purposes, and

amenities including a shopping precinct or community school,” a spokesperson from Penrith Council said. “Within urban areas an ideal size is around 500ha with a preferred minimum area of 100ha.” Should Waterside be changed or should residents embrace Cranebrook? Have your say by sending an email to news@ westernweekender.com.au.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

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It’s great to see the Penrith Museum of Printing back up and running after their holiday break. This is one of the great secrets of Penrith, and a wonderful step back in time. The museum is open from 10am to 2pm every Saturday in the grounds of Penrith Paceway.

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lucky paceway winners Members of the Penrith Paceway have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and The Western Weekender. Club members can pick up a free specially numbered bumper sticker from the Paceway, 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 Paceway 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: 0512, 0119, 0234

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FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Mr Watkins Bar FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Percy Plunkett FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Mr Watkins for cocktails FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Penrith Panthers as there is always something for everyone WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The people, you will always bump into someone you know WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? Allan Grammar Wine Bar

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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Magistrate sends man to jail after incident in Kingswood

A Kingswood man caught driving drunk and disqualified with a child in the car has been sentenced to nine months in jail. Nicholas Lee Riley, 28, will spend at least the next six months behind bars after he was apprehended on his way to pick up his partner from the train station. Accompanying Riley in the car was a sixyear-old boy and an open can of Woodstock Bourbon, Penrith Local Court heard when he appeared via video-link from custody last Thursday. “What an abandonment of responsibility to that child,” Magistrate Brian van Zuylen scolded. The court heard Riley had received a call from his partner on the train after she became concerned about a male passenger following her. He got the child out of bed and drove towards Kingswood Station, but didn’t initially stop as police directed and needed to be wrestled to the ground. He told police: “Why bother, I’ll be over” when they sought to breath test him and then threatened to “f**king headbutt” the officer who tried to detain him, according to agreed facts read in court. He later blew 0.141. The offender, who is due to go before the parole board for breaching his latest Intensive Correction Order, was sentenced for two counts of ‘driving while disqualified’, one count each of ‘resist’ and ‘intimidate police’, ‘not stop when directed’, ‘mid-range drink driving’ and ‘dishonestly obtain petrol’. He is eligible for release on June 19.

roadworks that police were able to catch him – about three kilometres after first spotting him driving erratically on Mamre Road, St Marys. In a collaborative effort, fellow motorists “flagged down police” and pointed in the direction Vella was travelling, helping them to eventually collar the lead foot driver, who was seen reaching speeds of more than 120km/hr in an 80km/hr zone while weaving dangerously in an out of traffic on October 25 last year. When he fronted Penrith Local Court to be sentenced last Thursday, the court heard the 22-year-old had been suspended earlier in the day on Bells Line of Road for travelling more than 45km/hr over the limit in a school zone. Despite having his registration plates confiscated and licence suspended on the spot, Vella decided to drive his black Honda away from the scene “because he didn’t want to leave it there”, his lawyer submitted. “What does he expect to happen?” Magistrate Brian van Zuylen demanded. “Why is he any different? “It’s inconvenient to have your licence suspended on the spot on the Hume Highway or the City.” After Vella was arrested, road workers who had feared they might be hit or injured, approached police officers and thanked them for apprehending him, the court heard. Vella, who had no previous criminal matters on his record, was convicted of ‘driving while suspended’, ‘reckless driving’, ‘not display L-plates’, and ‘operate vehicle when confiscated’. He was also fined $1,500.

Motorbike hoon loses licence, cops significant fine

Woman thought she could pay for petrol later

A motorbike hoon who drove at such excessive speeds that police “couldn’t even get close to him”, has been stripped of his licence for 18 months. It was not until Luddenham’s Beau Shaun Vella, 22, met a traffic jam near

A magistrate has scoffed at a fuel thief who claimed she thought she could pay for it later, telling her lawyer: “who thinks that?”. Penrith Local Court heard Melissa Anne Moffett drove away from the bowser

without paying on four separate occasions, racking up about $90 worth of stolen fuel because she was “under the assumption she could pay for it later”. “She says if she proposed to steal petrol, she would have stolen a larger quantity,” her Legal Aid lawyer submitted when she was sentenced last Thursday. Magistrate Brian van Zuylen refused to accept the explanation and told Moffett it was not the petrol companies who bear the cost, but rather the motoring public who are forced to pay more for their fuel. As well as the dishonesty offences, Moffett faced court charged with two counts of ‘driving with an illicit substance present in her blood’ and two counts of ‘driving unlicenced’. The court heard the mother-of-five had successfully completed the Magistrate’s Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) program after she began using drugs, aged 35, following the death of a family member. “Ice has ruined her life and led to all this offending,” her lawyer said, noting Moffett used to be a nurse. She said her client had been “completely abstinent save for one occasion” since beginning the program. Magistrate van Zuylen applauded her efforts, saying he would give her “significant credit” on sentencing. She was disqualified for six months, fined $1,200 and slapped with four 12-month good behaviour bonds with supervision for the dishonesty matters.

Magistrate sends driver to jail to keep him off the road

Mikkel Isaac has been sent to the slammer after failing to keep out of the driver’s seat. The 27-year-old, who is currently disqualified from driving until 2039, was sentenced to eight months in jail with a four-month non-parole period after he was found behind the wheel of a car again on October 16 last year. Penrith Local Court heard the father-of-

two, with one on the way, had previously received prison sentences for driving while disqualified, but they were all varied on appeal to allow him to serve his sentence in the community, including an Intensive Correction Order that only concluded in April last year. “There’s a reason you’re disqualified – you’re a bad and dangerous driver,” Magistrate Brian van Zuylen chided. “Given the frequency of your offending and the seriousness of your driving record…there is no other alternative [other than full-time jail].” His lawyer pointed out Isaac would have been eligible to get his licence back in 2017 had it not been for his Habitual Offender Declarations (HODs) – which add an additional five years to any courtimposed driving bans when convicted of three relevant driving offences in a five-year period. He asked His Honour to lift the bans to give Isaac a “clean slate” and “hope” of getting his licence back in the near future. Magistrate van Zuylen said normally the court would be “sympathetic” to such a request, especially given the HOD Scheme has since been abolished, but refused to do it on the day. “Why should I lift it today, the day he comes before the court for driving while disqualified?” he said.

Woman caught with knife handed good behaviour bond

A woman found with a 27cm knife at Glenmore Park in the early hours of the morning has been handed a good behaviour bond. Cassandra Orman’s lawyer told the court the 24-year-old had forgotten the knife, which featured a wooden handle and 15cm blade, was in her bag when she was stopped and searched about 2am. She said her client was currently homeless and instructed her she used the knife for cooking. Orman was sentenced to an 18-month bond.

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Police Snapshot Werrington County: Child threatened with scissors

The men have been described as of Islander appearance with big builds and approximately six feet tall. Police urge anyone with information to contact crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Investigations are continuing following a break, enter and steal that occurred at an address in Werrington County on Saturday, February 2. At about 9pm two men knocked on the door of the address, asking the homeowner if they could use their phone, claiming their car had broken down and their mobiles were dead. The homeowner let them in and one asked if he could use the bathroom. The other man then grabbed the homeowner’s nine-year-old son and held a pair of scissors to his throat, demanding wallets, cash and phones to be handed over. The homeowner handed over his phone when he then grabbed the man and freed his son. The other offender returned and made more demands. The victim ran to his kitchen where he armed himself with a knife. The two home invaders fled and were last seen running to Henry Lawson Avenue.

Police are appealing for witnesses following an out of control party at South Penrith on Saturday, February 2 at 11.50pm. A group of men unknown to the members of the party tried to gain access to the Osborn Crescent address, despite not being invited. After being confronted by people at the party they eventually left. A short while later the gatecrashers returned with baseball bats and brutally assaulted two 19-year-old males. Police were called and the group fled the scene. Emergency services attended and treated one of the victims at the scene, whilst the other was conveyed to Nepean Hospital.

Jamisontown: Men without bowling shoes become violent

Penrith: Man found naked surrounded by drugs, cash

Police are investigating an incident that occurred at Zone Bowling in Jamisontown on Saturday, February 2. At 10.15pm staff noticed a group of males who were bowling were not wearing the appropriate shoes. The staff members warned the group that if they did not put on the correct footwear they would be asked to leave. After giving the group three warnings, staff cut off their game. The three men then became aggressive both physically and verbally, which resulted in staff having two bottles thrown at them. Upon leaving the premises, one of the persons of interest grabbed a metal pole and re-entered the premises where he threw it at staff members. Police were called and the offenders fled the scene. Police attended and seized CCTV footage of the incident.

South Penrith: Gatecrashers cause drama at house party

A man has been charged following numerous AVO breaches and suspected drug supply. On Saturday, February 2 at 8.50am police attended the Quest Apartments on Lord Sheffield Circuit after identifying several breaches of the man’s AVO cases over the past 24 hours. When police gained access to his unit, he was found lying naked and surrounded by a significant amount of drugs police believe to be MDMA capsules and cash. The 37-year-old Victorian man was arrested. He was charged with ‘contravene condition of an AVO’, ‘possess prohibited drug’, ‘possess prescribed restricted substance’ and ‘supply prohibited drug greater than an indictable quantity x 2’. He will appear at Penrith Local Court on Friday, February 22 to answer the charges.

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Big week of legal news Huge political news coming out of both State and Federal politics this week will have significant legal ramifications. NSW Labor is again in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, with accusations surfacing of questionable donations to the party to the tune of $100,000. The allegedly dodgy donations are reported to have been the catalyst for raids on NSW Labor headquarters by federal police late last year. Newly anointed Labor leader Michael Daley has announced that the funds will be quarantined while the investigation continues and it has been reported that the donations were sourced at an event associated with the organisation known as “Chinese Friends of Labor”. For Daley it is out of the frying pan and into the fire having only just assumed the leadership of the party following sexual harassment allegations that triggered a spectacular fall from grace for former Labor leader Luke Foley. If the allegations can be substantiated they may result in criminal charges being bought against the people involved invoking memories of the Obeid-McDonald scandal that engulfed the party before the current Liberal government took office. In Federal news, the findings of the Banking Royal Commission have been handed down. Both the Government and the Opposition have responded in what can best be described as a political point-scoring exercise. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg delivered an address to the nation on Monday evening in which he said the Government would completely dismantle the

remuneration structure for mortgage and insurance brokers and increase already heavy regulation of financial planners. The Labor Party then announced that it would also adopt all 76 recommendations of the report if elected after having only had hours to review the report. It took Kenneth Hayne, a former Justice of the High Court, 68 days of hearings, 130 witnesses and more than 12 months to produce his 1,000 page report. In the course of just three days the Government and Opposition claim to have read the report, analysed its recommendations and have committed to their enactment. The question must be asked, why did the Government and Opposition need to rush to make their respective announcements so quickly? These proposed reforms represent the biggest shake-up of the banking and financial sector in our nation’s history. On a strictly legal level alone, legislation needs to be drafted, pass through the Senate and be rubber stamped by the House of Representatives – a task nearly impossible to complete with only two sitting weeks of Parliament remaining before the election. Both parties have time on their side and the perfect opportunity for the voting public to provide a mandate for their proposed reforms. Instead, they have chosen symbolism over substance, creating panicked consumers worried about a credit freeze and nervous professionals questioning the future of their respective industries. See you next week!

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

Premier backs record in

Exclusive: Gladys Berejiklian tells the Weekender why she believes the Liberals NICOLA BARTON

egular visits to Penrith in recent weeks may suggest to some that NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian is worried about the party’s chances of retaining the crucial seats of Penrith and Mulgoa at the March 23 State Election. But on the contrary, Ms Berejiklian appears confident that her party’s track record in western Sydney and the impressive list of infrastructure projects puts the government in good stead. When she sits down with the Weekender for an exclusive interview, she’s just been to Glenmore Park announcing a new school at Mulgoa Rise. It is the latest in a long list of State Government projects she says she’s very proud of. “The construction that I saw on the way here, I just love it and every time I visit the region I can see either a road being finished or a new upgrade starting and almost every school I go to has had an upgrade or is about to get one and that gives me a great sense of pride,” Ms Berejiklian said. “The most frequent comment I get from people out here is ‘keep going’ and ‘keep building’, especially from some of the people in the community who have been here for a long time.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian is confident the State Government has a strong plan for western Sydney. Photo: Melinda Jane

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should retain government in March as polls suggest race will go down to the wire “I think what they are seeing now they’ve never seen before.” Ms Berejiklian is being dogged by a number of unexpected issues, including pill testing. She stands by her strong objection to pill testing, but says she has no plans to ban music festivals – she simply wants to make them safer. “I don’t apologise for making festivals safer and taking a strong stance against illegal drugs and it’s just wrong to think a culture of drug taking is normal, it’s not, it’s not normal to take something that can kill you or your friends on the spot,” she said. “There is no safe way to take illegal drugs, pill testing does not deal with the fact that ecstasy kills you and we need to make sure that young people get the message, we can’t control the decision that they make but we need them to get the message that pure ecstasy can kill you.” Ms Berejiklian said she wasn’t worried about the online berating against her by pro-pill tester voters. “I’m actually really pleased when young people get involved in debate, it’s really important and we need to have a conversation with young people and I’m glad that they are engaged, but as I speak to people who speak to young people, one thing that

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

pitch to win over the west

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies and Premier Gladys Berejiklian speak with journalist Nicola Barton. Photo: Melinda Jane concerns me is the misconception that these deaths are caused by impure pills, that’s what worries me,” she said. She hopes to win over these younger voters through delivering free apprenticeships and assistance for first home buyers struggling to enter the housing market. “I hope young people feel empowered to speak up so they can feel a part of the debate but it’s important to have the conversations because sometimes the

wrong facts can alter someone’s view on an issue,” Ms Berejiklian said. Ms Berejiklian threw her support behind local State MPs Tanya Davies and Stuart Ayres and commended them for their efforts in serving the community. With just 42 days until the election, Penrith residents can expect many more visits from the Premier in the coming weeks. There is expected to be a major transport announcement soon too.

“Not only is [western Sydney] the fastest growing part of our wonderful Greater Sydney Region, but it represents, I think, the future of NSW, so it’s important for us to get it right,” Ms Berejiklian said. “I’m confident that we are doing the most the region has ever had in a long time. “Is there more to do? Absolutely. Can we do some things better? Of course we can and I feel really excited by that.”

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Upgrade set to ease congestion M

ajor work on the upgrade of Mulgoa Road / Castlereagh Road between Union Road and Museum Drive, including the upgrade of Jane Street, has now started. Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population Alan Tudge said the muchneeded project would provide better road connections to the Penrith city centre and ease congestion at local intersections. “This upgrade will be a game- changer for the thousands of motorists who use Jane Street and Mulgoa Road each day to access the Penrith city centre, the Blue Mountains and M4 Motorway,” Mr Tudge said. NSW Roads Minister Melinda Pavey said the NSW and Australian governments were planning ahead for the future of Greater Western Sydney to ensure local road users are better connected to key employment and recreational areas across the region. “The upgrade will see major changes to the intersections of Mulgoa Road and High Street, as well as Castlereagh Road and Jane Street, to reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of bus services at the High Street intersection,” Ms Pavey said. “It will also provide the infrastructure

required to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety at these pinch-points.” Penrith MP Stuart Ayres said additional north and southbound lanes would be built on Mulgoa Road and Castlereagh Road between Union Road and to the south of Museum Drive. “This will save travel times for the 45,000 vehicles travelling along this section of the road each day,” Mr Ayres said. “The existing rail underpass will also be widened to provide three lanes in each direction on Castlereagh Road and a left turn into Jane Street.” Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Marise Payne, said good economic management was key to the upgrade. “Moving this project through to the construction phase has only been possible because our Liberal-National Government has the right economic plan in place which means key local projects, like this major upgrade, can be progressed,” Senator Payne said. “Upgrading this important stretch of road includes improving the flood immunity of the rail bridge above Castlereagh Road which will help reduce the risk of flooding when there is heavy rainfall.” Construction is expected to be completed in late 2020, weather permitting.

Stuart Ayres and Marise Payne start work on the upgrade last week

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

Rise up for new school New primary school at Mulgoa Rise will accommodate up to 1000 students NICOLA BARTON

he State Government has confirmed it will build a new state- of- the- art primary school at Mulgoa Rise. The announcement was made by Premier Gladys Berejiklian during another visit to the Penrith region last week. Education Minister Rob Stokes and Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies were also on hand to discuss the plans. Ms Berejiklian said local families can look forward to their new air conditioned school for up to 1000 students being delivered in 2023. “The new school will have outstanding modern facilities that will help arm students with the knowledge and skills they need for the jobs of the future,” Ms Berejiklian said. “Glenmore Park is a vibrant and growing community, and this school will rapidly become a centrepiece for students, teachers and local families for years to come.” The proposed school will sit on Forestwood Drive and is part of the State Government’s $6 billion school building program. Mrs Davies said she was thrilled to deliver this news to local families. “We have seen this community here continue to explode in population and

Gladys Berejiklian, Tanya Davies and Rob Stokes at the site of the new primary school

now is the time to be building the primary school and I am absolutely thrilled as the local member to be delivering this,” she said. “The new school at Mulgoa Rise in Glenmore Park will expand our local school building program which includes major upgrades to Cecil Hills High School and Cecil Hills Public School, as well as the recently completed Fernhill School and upgrade of St Clair High School.” But the Premier’s announcement was almost immediately met with scepticism from Labor, which pointed out 2015’s promised Jordan Springs primary school still hadn’t commenced construction. “This announcement is Jordan Springs Mark II, where the community is still waiting for a school that was promised four years ago,” Labor Candidate for Mulgoa, Todd Carney said. Despite Labor’s fears that the school promise will fall flat, Ms Berejiklian said only her party could be relied upon to deliver the infrastructure. “Only the Liberals & Nationals can be trusted to get things done for NSW and build the infrastructure families across western Sydney deserve,” she said. Mr Stokes said the Government was making history-making funding commitments to education infrastructure.

Meanwhile, work to finally get underway at Jordan Springs NICOLA BARTON

t was promised four years ago but the Jordan Springs community will finally see construction activity on the site of the area’s promised new primary school, with work to get underway soon. Labor has been relentless in criticising the government for the length of time it’s taken to build the school given it was promised as part of the 2015 election campaign. With the construction contract being awarded late last year, construction is set to commence on the Cullen Avenue site very soon. In fact, there’s some reports work may even begin within days. The school is now estimated to be open by 2021. Education Minister Rob Stokes denied Labor’s claims that the Liberal Government didn’t deliver on its promise and said they only committed to starting, not finishing the school by the 2019 election. “We’ve delivered on that commitment and now have a site confirmed and have awarded the construction contract so work can commence in the coming months,” he said. “We’re building schools that will be able to serve our communities for generations to come and this new school is a great example of that.”

Liberal Candidate for Londonderry Belinda Hill has welcomed news that construction on a new school will begin soon The new school will provide 28 classrooms, a library, school hall and outdoor learning spaces for the local Jordan Springs community. It will be capable of accommodating up to 600 students when it opens, however the design will allow for an additional 400 student spaces to be created as the area grows. Liberal Candidate for Londonderry

Belinda Hill welcomed the announcement and said it is an exciting time for young families in the community. “Our area is growing and we must ensure we have the school facilities our community needs both now and into the future,” she said. Londonderry MP Prue Car said despite the Government’s promises, she still wasn’t holding her breath.

“An artist impression will not fix the fact that the Liberals have failed to deliver the Jordan Springs Primary School,” she said. “They are trying to play catch- up and spin their way out of a broken promise to a growing community.” The State Government says it is investing $6 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 170 new and upgraded schools.

Caddens residents unhappy with plan for childcare centre on Cadda Ridge Drive NICOLA BARTON

Shoko Hazama with her children and Londonderry MP Prue Car in Caddens

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oncerned Caddens residents fear that a proposed childcare centre will cause great implications for their community. A development application has been lodged with Penrith Council, with plans for a two storey childcare centre on the 626.80sqm corner site of 68 Cadda Ridge Drive. As it stands, the street is currently used as the main thoroughfare for the area following the closure of Caddens Road several years ago, itself a controversial move. 40- year- old resident, Shoko Hazama, who lives next door to the site, said she’s concerned for the community’s safety if the project goes ahead. “We pointed out in letters of objection about the noise levels, accessibility, safety issues and traffic, we just think that the design itself isn’t going to be safe for the people using the facility and the community around it,” she said. “It’s not just us, it’s going to be a struggle for a lot of residents having a busy building like that with 45 kids and a lot of parents coming in and out, it’s just not safe where it’s located.”

Ms Hazama and her family have met with several members of the community, who too are opposed to the proposal. “We have kids of our own and we know of course they are going to be noisy, we’re surrounded by other young families with the same, but our kids will grow up and we’ll still have to live with this noise forever,” she said. “We will also lose street parking as it will become a no standing zone and just add traffic on top of what we already have.” Londonderry MP Prue Car said the issue was brought to her attention by several residents with similar concerns. “When I was knocking on doors up and down this street, everyone was raising the issue of this road with me, my concern would be that we’ve already got speeding issues on Cadda Ridge Drive, there’s been accidents already,” she said. “The issue is you have the busy road but school zone laws don’t apply because that’s only for schools. “A childcare centre is inappropriate in that context and it is just going to be washed in on an area that can’t take it.” Ms Car is urging locals to ensure their voices are heard by submitting letters of objection to Council. Your thoughts? Send us an email at news@westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Proposal causes concern

Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

New trains to be promised The State Government is set to review its controversial train timetable and introduce new services to and from Penrith as part of a major election commitment. The timetable, introduced in November 2017, made journeys from Penrith to the city slower and removed Redfern as a stop on Blue Mountains Line services despite its growing popularity with students and workers. Transport Minister Andrew Constance eventually bowed to public pressure and reinstated Redfern as a stop on some services. Nine News reported on Tuesday that Premier Gladys Berejiklian will soon announce plans for major timetable tweaks including new Penrith services both on weekdays and weekends. Ms Berejiklian will likely announce the changes closer to the State Election in an effort to win over frustrated commuters. But Shadow Transport Minister Jodi McKay is worried that any timetable overhaul will cause a repeat of the havoc seen on the rail network when the new schedule was first introduced. “Andrew Constance is the state’s worst Transport Minister who badly bungled the introduction of a new timetable that threw the city into chaos,” Ms McKay said. “Andrew Constance needs to reassure the public that when he introduces a new timetable it will not be a repeat of the one that brought the city to its knees a year ago.”

Thain calls for heat summit Councillor says more needs to be done to tackle high temps NICOLA BARTON

ed up with Penrith’s rising temperatures, Councillor John Thain is calling for a city-wide heat summit to look at more solutions to cool down the city. Cr Thain said the heat is only making residents ‘hermits’ as holidays are spent in front of the air-con, restricting people from completing any activities. His proposal for a summit or think tank suggests ways that Penrith Council could partner with local developers and experts as a way to come up with the most sustainable solution for the future. “I’m going to ask if we can put a team together to look at it, and I think it’s important that we look at our own development control plan,” Cr Thain said. Just recently, Council announced their Cooling the City Strategy, which involves planting trees all over the city. Cr Thain said this isn’t enough as the trees will take at least 10 years until they are fully grown. “It’s great to plant trees and we are doing that, but we need a bigger endeavour to stop Penrith being just a heat sink,” he said. “I think it’s important that buildings four storeys or above have a roof garden; every single one of them because it’s

“It’s the developer and Strata that need to be a part of this, but I’m sure if a resident was going to move into a building with a roof garden or beautiful foliage on the side that would, if anything create an attraction. Perhaps we need to look at what the optimum roof colour is for housing and use that for everyone.” Cr Thain believes this could be a great way to cool down the city whilst adding a sense of beauty to concrete buildings.

email: news@westernweekender.com.au post: Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown 2750

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just pumping more heat back into the air around Penrith.” His plan is to explore how greenery could be re- introduced on buildings, referring to the award- winning One Central Park building in Sydney as an example. “It’s time to look at foliage on the side of buildings and the materials we use for parking, why does everything have to be black asphalt?” he said.

dear weekender...

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W: www.penrithchamber.org.au E: info@penrithchamber.org.au T: 4722 6969 ABN: 82 052 267 306

Penrith Councillor John Thain wants to explore new ways to make the city cooler

Sunday service scrapped

Update on charity story

As a Member of Penrith RSL Sub-branch, I believe the Penrith community at large should be very disturbed that the ANZAC Parade and Service are to be cut according to the article in the Western Weekender dated January 25. The fact that the article appeared in the Western Weekender the day before Australia Day, a day when we celebrate our Australian values, is significant. What was the Penrith RSL Sub-branch Committee thinking in cancelling this traditional event? The Western Weekender article identified that the parade and service are normally held the Sunday before ANZAC Day, this year it falls on Easter Sunday, that should be no reason to cancel the parade and service which involves prayers and hymns but is secular. It would possibly be appropriate to conduct this year’s parade and service on Sunday, April 14, if those practicing their faith are concerned about it being held on Easter Sunday. The Penrith RSL Sub-branch website under the heading “Our Mission” states “A Long History in Our Community”. History is also about tradition and the Sunday Parade and Service encompasses that, giving the community the opportunity to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of veterans, that is all who have donned uniform in our nation’s name but especially those who have seen Operational Service. JOHN FENTON, VIA EMAIL

A little update and a special thank you to the Western Weekender for sharing Alex’s story (Alexander loses his locks in mission to raise crucial cash, Weekender February 1). This afternoon (February 1) Alex hit $1545 of his $1500 target for The World’s Greatest Shave... he is so thankful to everyone’s generosity. AMBER THOMAS, VIA FACEBOOK

We need to move forward We have again finished the annual Australia Day ‘change the date’ debate with zero movement. It seems to be that there is no sensible centre on this debate, which will mean it’ll never really be solved. There seems to be little respect from those who demand a date change, forcing it down the throats of those who do not and changing their social media pages to be Aboriginal flags. Why not the Australian flag? Surely you are being divisive in this very action alone. KerriAnne Kennerley was right – how many people who want these changes have ever really researched the current real problems in Indigenous communities? ALAN SMITH, PENRITH

Station is a shocker I used Penrith train station for the first time in years this week. What a poor effort the State Government did on its upgrade. ANNE WALKER, VIA EMAIL

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space. For more information, see our public notices section.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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Melissa McIntosh and Paul Fletcher with the headspace Penrith team on Tuesday EMILY FESZCZUK

ore than half a million dollars will be spent to continue a crucial trial that offers employment to those suffering with mental health issues. Liberal Candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, joined Federal Families and Social Services Minister Paul Fletcher to confirm that the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Trial program in partnership with headspace Penrith would receive $520,000 in additional funding. The IPS program focuses on employment assistance for young people aged

up to 25 who suffer from mental illness. Vocational training is combined with clinical mental health help to achieve educational or employment goals. “These are people who are at risk of long- term welfare dependence because they disengage from education and employment,” Mr Fletcher said. Deborah Shand, Manager of headspace Penrith, explained that mental health was an issue everywhere but very prevalent in Penrith. “The amount of walk-ins we have that have not been referred by their GPs show that they know they need help with their issues and finding jobs,” Ms Shand said. The trial will now be funded until 2021.

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More funding for trial that helps locals find employment

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“Out of touch”: Mulgoa MP takes a stand against cemetery plans at Wallacia NICOLA BARTON

ulgoa MP Tanya Davies has taken a dramatic stand against a proposed cemetery at the site of Wallacia Golf Club. She’s declared the proposal “disgusting” and “out of touch” after a development application (DA) by the Catholic Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (CMCT) was supported by the NSW Department of Planning, despite Mrs Davies, Penrith Councillors and residents having no say in the matter. The Department of Planning stated the proposal was “in the public’s best interest”. The DA, if approved, will see the construction of a $24 million memorial park while reducing the current 18- hole course to nine holes. The clubhouse, liquor and gaming licence is being transferred to the St John’s Park Bowling Club, away from the Panthers Group. Mrs Davies, alongside Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler and Councillor Bernard Bratusa, met with a large number of residents last Friday to discuss the next steps they plan to take. “Ever since this proposal was first put forward it was met with absolute opposi-

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Davies digs in for golf club

Tanya Davies, Ross Fowler and Bernard Bratusa met with concerned local residents last Friday tion from the community, Penrith City Council and myself,” Mrs Davies said. “I am disgusted that the Department has determined the cemetery to be in ‘the public interest and approvable’. “If it means I have to put my career on the line or at worst walk away because I cannot be associated any further with a government that will destroy a community, I am prepared to do that.” Mrs Davies said this would be her number one focus coming into the State

Election and threatened to leave politics if Premier Gladys Berejiklian didn’t overrule the proposal. Mulgoa resident James Murray said the community will not give up on the fight. “If you look at the joint Memorandum of Understanding it shows you clearly in point 10 that this can be closed at any time the CMCT sees fit, the club is virtually gone and we are really fighting a rearguard effort here,” he said. But a spokesperson from Catholic

Cemeteries and Crematoria said its plan was best for the site, with the current golf course to stay for up to five years. “Unless the DA is successful, the operator of the golf club may be unable to continue the lease as the club is currently not viable and is losing significant amounts of money,” the spokersperson said. “A refurbished function centre will provide an opportunity for further revenue and a new space for community events.”

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Foxes pose serious threat Plan to save native wildlife in Mulgoa by controlling foxes and deer in the area EMILY FESZCZUK

oxes are an ongoing pest causing issues in the Mulgoa area with residents being urged to join a new control group. The campaign is coordinated by the Cumberland Land Conservancy (CLC) and Greater Sydney Local Land Services. It will start with a public meeting on Sunday, February 10 for anyone who is interested to attend to introduce the new Mulgoa Vertebrate Pest Group (MVPG). “It is essentially about getting landowners in a targeted area to do pest animal control at the same time which means it’s more effective,” said Nikki McGrath, Media Officer for Greater Sydney Local Land Services. “We need the community’s help as a whole not just individual land owners.” The foxes pose a serious threat to local wildlife in the Mulgoa area as well as native vegetation, domestic pets and livestock. Mark Fuller from CLC explained they have been working to conserve land and improve the native wildlife but foxes are in large numbers and will still target them. “Foxes are nice, I love them as an animal but I love native wildlife more,” he said.

Mark Fuller is trying to save native wildlife in Mulgoa. Photo: Melinda Jane

“They are adaptable so if we improve our native animals the foxes will keep coming. They sadly don’t stand a chance against them.” The group understands it is unlikely to get rid of foxes completely, but says this is not the aim. Through the use of baits and cage traps, they clear a space long enough to help the native wildlife return. Those who use the baits and traps are fully trained and experienced in how they operate. The group hopes over the next few years to get more people working in a coordinated effort with humane euthanasia as the most paramount point. Meanwhile, Mulgoa locals are also trying to deal with the issue of deer reproducing in the area. “These introduced species like deer have different ecology, so their hooves wear down the ground and they eat the vegetation meant for native animals,’’ Mr Fuller said. They are looking to electronically map their sightings via a smartphone app. Anyone who is interested is encouraged to come along on Sunday or just find out more information on how to help. Register online via bit.ly/MVPG19 or contact Mark Fuller 0424 440 140.

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The Penrith community’s vision for better access to our beautiful Nepean River is one step closer, following a $24 million funding announcement for upgrades to Regatta Park. Regatta Park and the Nepean River that runs through the heart of our City are iconic natural features of our City that are much loved and used by residents and visitors alike. The funding follows Council’s successful application to the Western Sydney City Deals Liveability Program, which is designed to provide high quality community infrastructure and public spaces to create neighbourhoods that are liveable, sustainable and healthy. I am delighted that we are a part of the City Deal, a deal that has delivered a new and bold approach to managing cities and economies and seen three levels of government all working together to deliver smart and responsible growth for western Sydney. Already, that deal has seen the State and Federal governments commit to fund Stage One of a North South Rail Link which is the single most important piece of infrastructure for our

region. It will stimulate unprecedented opportunities for western Sydney and not only transform our region, but also the lives of people who live here. The design of Regatta Park is the result of careful planning and community consultation over a number of years, which was formalised in the ‘Our River Masterplan’. The new park will feature event and festival areas, picnic spaces, river terraces, a regional playground for children and a potential future dining precinct with expansive river views. This funding allows Council to accelerate the delivery of the project. The development of the final Regatta Park precinct designs, together with further community and stakeholder engagement, will commence this year. Following this process, construction is expected to start at the beginning of 2020 and be completed by 2022. For more information on the Our River Masterplan, visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au. Have a great weekend and I’ll see you next week.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

the western weekender Â» Friday, February 8, 2019

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

The cutest dates of all

Single mums plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a very special twist NICOLA BARTON

s Valentine’s Day creeps closer, couples around Penrith have begun planning how they’ll spend their special evening. For some local single mums, they too will be celebrating the occasion with the one they love the most as they take their little ones on their very own ‘date’. Penrith resident Jasmine Muscat said she’s excited to be taking her mini me out and hopes it will teach her son, Kaiden, how to be a gentlemen. “I thought it would be fun to do, we don’t normally go out for dinner or get the opportunity to dress up. I couldn’t think of anyone else I’d rather celebrate this day with than my beautiful son,” she said. “It’s a reason to celebrate the day, it’s hard being single on Valentine’s Day and I love the idea of being out with my son on the day love is being celebrated.” Ms Muscat plans on getting dressed up and taking her son to a local restaurant for dinner. 22-year- old Heather Brooke will also be taking her son, Cooper, out for a special evening and said they plan to go ten pin bowling and then visit San Churros for dessert.

Jasmine Muscat and her son Kaiden

Heather Brooke and her son Cooper

“I guess I chose to celebrate it with my son because there’s no one else I’d rather love and be with than my son,” Ms Brooke said. “Doing this together means that I’m showing him how much I love him and how much he means to me. I want him to know that he’s such an incredible and special little boy.

“I think this teaches strong family values and encourages a strong bond between mother and child, that you don’t need to buy expensive things for someone to make memories. Memories are so precious and the most valuable and sentimental gift you can give a loved one.” Ms Muscat said she will continue this tradition even when she has a partner as

she believes it teaches children important values. Other single mothers around the community have turned to Facebook group Penrith Area Mums to share their own date ideas, to ensure they still celebrate Valentine’s Day. A fun activity and delicious meal are on the cards for most.

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The candlelit dinner is out, axe throwing is in: Unique Valentine’s Day celebration EMILY FESZCZUK

alentine’s Day is known for chocolate and roses but how about ditching them this year for something different – like an axe? Throw Axe in Penrith is hosting two night sessions on February 14 for competitive couples who want a unique date night to celebrate their love. Co-owner Robert Hardcastle said there was a demand in the past for more couple focused events, which created the idea of the Valentine’s Day activity. “We thought Valentine’s Day seemed like the perfect opportunity for a couple to come down and throw together as a team against other couples, have a bit of fun and meet some new people,” he said. There are four cages at the axe throwing space in Abel Street, Jamisontown with two being used at any time with couples trying to get the highest points to beat the couple they are against. This double elimination round robin style tournament will play out until the best pair will be crowned the winning power couple of the night. Even if you have no experience it can be a great night with your partner to remember.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Celebrate love with an axe

Robert Hardcastle and Nancy Aldred are preparing for Throw Axe’s Valentine’s Day event. Photo: Melinda Jane “It really is a lot of fun, something a bit different and you will learn a new skill at the end of it as well. It only takes five to 10 minutes to get the knack of it, then you’ll realise how much you can enjoy it,” Mr Hardcastle said. This is the first event of its kind for the team at Throw Axe, who are currently

celebrating their first anniversary after opening last year. Mr Hardcastle said the concept has been a winner. “I was surprised actually, I thought maybe once or twice a year people would come back but we have had the same people come back two or three times

already who will come back with work or their mates,” he said. Valentine’s Day tickets are $110, which covers the axe throwing session for each couple, a drink on arrival and a gift for the ladies. For more information or to book tickets head to their Facebook page or email info@throwaxehq.com.au.

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“It’s only hair”: Local mum’s mission to raise crucial funds EMILY FESZCZUK

mma Pearson is taking deep breaths and being brave for a great cause. The 34- year- old single mum of four is completely shaving her head on Wednesday, March 13 as a part of the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave. “My brother was diagnosed with a form of cancer when he was only nine, which was a terrible time for us,” Ms Pearson said. “He then was diagnosed again at 15. Luckily he is in remission now in his late 20s, which is awesome but over the last couple of years we have lost family and friends.” Ms Pearson is helping to beat blood cancer, which 35 Australians are diagnosed with each day. She has set a goal of $1000 and has already raised just over $600, with several weeks to go before the big event. While Ms Pearson is hoping to go over her goal there is a more important message behind what she is doing. “I want to do it to the raise the money but also show my young four kids that it’s only hair. It’s going to grow back and there are more important things in life, that is really important to me,’’ she said. The event will be kicking off from 6pm

Emma Pearson is preparing to lose her hair for charity. Photo: Melinda Jane at Nepean Rowing Club in Penrith, where Ms Pearson works. The club is being very supportive and pushing the cause to try to make everyone aware and help her raise as much as she can. The club will be holding raffles on the night, with 100 per cent of proceeds going to the charity along with a collection tin and other fun activities.

The night will also be open for anyone else looking to shave off their locks for the cause. “For the people who get diagnosed, it’s the absolute last thing on their mind,” Ms Pearson said. “They usually aren’t thinking about their hair while trying to deal with everything else.”

The State Government has announced $10 million in funding to improve riverside parklands on the Nepean River in Penrith, part of a $150 million investment in new and improved parklands. Penrith MP Stuart Ayres (pictured with local river users) welcomed the news. “Penrith people just love being near the river. These funds will open up and improve parks along the riverbank allowing more space for fun with family and friends, playing sport, active recreation and relaxing,” he said. “This funding will go a long way to providing better access to the river, opening up opportunities for active recreation such as kayaking and paddle boarding, as well as updating the onsite playgrounds, barbeque facilities, cycleways and walking trails.” The State Government has also confirmed they will implement a Minister for Public Spaces to oversee parks and public places.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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Innov-is quality stitching in a sturdy, value-packed sewing machine. Includes 80 stitches and 8 one-step buttonhole styles and twin needle capability for parallel top-stitching. Save time with auto needle threading and auto reinforcement at the beginning and end of seams. Secure your thread in place without bulk using the lock stitch button. Fine tensioning control ensures stitches sew beautifully every time, from sheers to stretch and denim. 850 stitches per minute. Accessories include a hard carry case and a transparent presser foot for an unobscured view as you stitch. Optional wide table available.

Innov-is A150

Shop 4/level 2, 147 Queen Street Campbelltown Ph 4628 4437 www.sewmanystitches.com.au

ONL 1 HO Y U FRO R PENR M ITH!

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Innov-is quality stitching in a full-featured sewing machine. Includes 150 stitches, 3 fonts, 10 one-step buttonholes. Save time with auto thread cutting, auto needle threading and the auto reinforcement stitch at beginning and end of seams. Secure your thread in place without bulk using the lock stitch button. Fine tensioning control ensures stitches sew beautifully every time, from sheers to stretch and denim. Twin needle capability for parallel top-stitching. 850 stitches per minute. Accessories include a hard carry case and a transparent presser foot for an unobscured view as you stitch. Optional wide table available. 5 year Brother warranty.

After losing her husband to cancer, Sophie is determined to make a difference EMILY FESZCZUK

ophie Mason is making dreams come true while keeping her husband’s memory alive. The owner of Settlers Mulgoa is hosting a live music event full of food and fun at her venue on Saturday, February 9 to raise money for the cancer charity Dreams2Live4. Since her husband Craig sadly passed away aged just 44 in April 2018 after a nine-month battle with aggressive stomach cancer, she made it her mission to complete his bucket list, ticking off different experiences he would never get to do. Along with her daughter Emerson and son Harry and a picture of Craig the family have been travelling the world, going to concerts and just spending a lot of time together. “Besides sending me broke, it’s a great thing because the kids talk about him all the time,” Ms Mason said. “They say remember when we did this, or dad would love that. They are talking about him constantly.” Only three months after Craig’s death their close friend Grant Hoogenboom lost his wife Frances, who was only 42, to bowel cancer.

Grant Hoogenboom, Emerson Mason and Sophie Mason. Photo: Melinda Jane

It was then that they found Dreams2Live4, the only cancer charity that caters to making dreams come true for adults with terminal illness. “We have our own business so my children were fortunate enough to spend a lot of time with Craig and we were financially able to do a lot of things that created fond memories from holidays and experiences that they can look back on. Unfortunately, not everyone can do that,” Ms Mason said. The organisation aims to create experiences for people battling cancer to give them something to look forward to during their treatment and provides good memories for the kids who may be left behind after their parent passes away. The families have a fundraising goal of $20,000 by July this year. They have already raised over $11,000, $5,000 of which has been donated to Dreams2Live4 with the money being used to grant the wish of a dying mother to have her last family holiday to Tasmania. Ms Mason is hoping that proceeds of the event on Saturday and extra donations should help them reach their goal. Tickets to the event are sold out but there’s still plenty of ways to help. Head to the Facebook page Craig’s Bucket List for more information or to donate visit www.gofundme.com/craigs-bucket-list.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Making dreams come true

Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

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A unique Penrith dining experience

Lakeside Restaurant Sydney International Regatta Centre, Gate A, Old Castlereagh Road, Penrith 4729 3222 www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au

ooking for a fresh dining experience with unique surroundings? Lakeside Restaurant at the Sydney International Regatta Centre is known for being a beautiful location for wedding receptions and functions such as corporate events with its floor to ceiling glass and sweeping views of Penrith Lakes and the lower Blue Mountains. While they are very experienced at hosting and catering for all your function needs, what people may not know is it boasts an established restaurant where anyone can indulge in an ultimate dining experience. Freshly sourced produce is a priority for the restaurant to maintain top quality taste. Their quality ingredients are prepared on a daily basis to create delicious dishes. Combine this with great wines from their impressive wine list topped off by stunning views to make it a truly special meal every time. The exceptional team run by owner Vince Capolupo offer excellent service for their dinner

sessions on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 6pm. On the weekend they are open for brunch from 9am-12pm and serve their A La Carte menu on Saturday and Sunday as well between 12-3pm. The restaurant also hosts special events that add to the dining quality available in the Penrith area. In the past they have offered events such as an eight-course degustation menu partnered with Tyrell’s Wines along with special guest Mark Richardson and a seafood buffet lunch accompanied by a jazz band. For Valentine’s Day coming up they have a three-course meal for couples with a glass of sparkling wine on arrival. The location at the foot of the Mountains and at Australia’s Olympic rowing venue really makes for a date to remember. Lakeside Restaurant also has ample parking and is located at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Gate A, Old Castlereagh Road, Penrith. For more information, call 4729 3222 or visit www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

Valentine’s Day 14th February 2019

Dinner for 2 – $69 per person

Bookings Essential – 4729 3222

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includes 3 course meal & a glass of sparkling on arrival

International Regatta Centre Gate A, Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith Lakes www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au Phone 4729 3222

Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Learning the art of negotiation Richard Houwing // Business Connect Advisor Western Sydney Business Centre | 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

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nderstanding the art of negotiating should be a primary skill for most businesspeople. Negotiating is a universal human activity. We all engage in bargaining and making deals with the people around us more often than we realise. In business, good negotiating can help you get better prices for items you sell or help improve your profitability by keeping costs down. People often confuse tactics with strategy in negotiating which is one of the reasons it is considered a confrontational sport. Tactics are often associated with haggling or phrases like, “let’s split the difference”. Strategy has more to do with ways to increase the size of the pie, rather than getting a bigger proportion of a smaller pie. In business we often consider how we could create additional value by making things worth more through our efforts. This may be by creating a wonderful product from raw ingredients or by providing superior service. In negotiating the aim is to increase the value for everyone.

If you were buying a complex piece of machinery, an example may be, “I will pay your installation fee, if you include additional staff training”. The concept of value is crucial for negotiating. Further, people perceive value differently and this is where being prepared for negotiating is important. Take a creative look at the parts that make up the deal. Think with an open mind about your own interest and the benefits you expect from the deal. Which of these interests are fundamental and which are secondary. Consider the interest of the other parties as well. The better you know their interest the more effectively you can negotiate. Then, with this knowledge trade one concession for another. For example, “If you can do this, I will do that for you”. The objective is to trade things that are of low cost to you for things of higher value. This way negotiating becomes a joint decision-making process. A thoughtful strategy will often result in a mutually beneficial outcome with lower risks where all parties are motivated to fulfil.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

A taste of Cuba’s traditions EMILY FESZCZUK

he Afro- Cuban All Stars have made a name for themselves all around the world for their unique orchestra devoted to full Cuban music. Now, they are returning to Australia for the fifth time to entertain audiences nationwide with their 14- piece group lead by none other than the original bandleader Juan de Marcos. Juan created the band full of older male musicians back in 1996 to book them for recording sessions for three albums. The albums ended up gaining international recognition selling thousands of copies, one being nominated for a Grammy and even being the subject of a documentary. “We never expected to have the repercussions that we had really, suddenly we were selling tonnes of albums and the old guys that I brought from their houses to the studios became sort of pop stars,” Juan told the Weekender. From then on they have delighted crowds with music traditional to their country’s culture with influences from around the world keeping it fresh. “I am the oldest member right now so I have created different generations,” Juan said. “Every couple of years I change the band, bring new people in but the most

important thing is that they should have a career made in Cuba.’’ The stars live all around the world, even Australia is home to their lead trumpet player, but they have to know their history as their motto is to stand up on their roots to create their future. The eighth- generation band that will be performing this tour is excellent with a certain sophisticated sound that Juan has achieved from experimenting with a slightly different line-up. “I’m very happy with the band, they are great people, great musicians and I’m happy as well because I have family, my wife and two daughters in the band with me now,” he said. Adding in the younger generations gives a new perspective, allowing the music to adapt, but Juan ensures the music has a strong tie to the traditional styles of Cuban music that he loves. “Our music has changed as we are creative,” he said. “In musical terms we are very revolutionary. We change the music every two to three years, we create new styles, new genres but all these mix into the AfroCuban music.” This will be a night of dancing, rhythm and energy for all to enjoy. The Afro- Cuban All Stars will be on at Blacktown Workers Club on Friday, March 29 at 8pm. Tickets are $69. To book or more information, call 9830 0600 or visit www.workersclub.com.au.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 Â« the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Classic play still has plenty of relevance to issues of today

ORAVA QUARTET WITH GRETA BRADMAN FINE MUSIC

EMILY FESZCZUK

“…warmth of sound, sublime inner voicing and spontaneity”

CONCERT HALL

Company, the new production cast has both stage and screen stars, Alex Bryant-Smith, Nicholas Papademetriou and Yalin Ozucelik. It’s a show that will fascinate, shock and amuse you all in one. ‘The Caretaker’ will be on at the Riverside Theatre in Parramatta from February 21 to 23 at 7.45pm. Tickets are from $23. To book or for more information call 8839 3399 or visit www. riversideparramatta.com.au.

The Sydney Morning Herald

The most exciting young quartet on the block bring their unique sound and breathtaking intensity to the classics of the string quartet canon. Joined by Greta Bradman, one of Australasia’s most celebrated operatic and concert artists, the combination will send shivers up your spine.

SAT 23 FEB 7.30PM Stnd $60 | Conc $55 | Under 30s $30 | Family $160

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600

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arold Pinter is known for his legendary absurd plays. This February, Riverside Theatre in Parramatta will present his must- see work ‘The Caretaker’ to its audiences nearly 60 years after its premiere. The contemporary classic is still so relevant today as it deals with the issues of family, mental illness, power and identity as the story of two brothers unfolds. Aston lives in a junk filled room isolating himself, while Mick is being held back from his dreams by having to take care of his brother. When Aston provides shelter to a homeless man the whole dynamic is changed as the three men try to manipulate the situation to benefit themselves. The mystery continues throughout of how the lives of the characters will change forever. Presented by Throwing Shade Theatre

Tread the path of haunted souls...

Ghost Tours www.qstation.com.au/ghost-tours | 02 9466 1551 | H8773-CR5@accor.com

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For families, groups, paranormal hunters and thrill seekers!

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

Join Leo Sayer for his 70th birthday bash EMILY FESZCZUK

ritish music legend Leo Sayer is touring Australia as part of a series of special concerts around the world for his 70th birthday. With over 40 years in the music industry Leo has done it all. He’s performed on TV shows, concerts at amazing venues, written tracks for top musicians and of course had his fair share of hits. He will entertain audiences with an energy packed show full of his back catalogue. Leo’s classic tracks such as ‘The Show Must Go On’, ‘One Man Band’, and ‘I Can’t Stop Loving You’ are featured along with his smash hits ‘When I Need You’ and ‘You Make Me Feel Like Dancing’.

His music appeals to a wide range of audiences both young and old. A talent Leo has is the great ability as a performer to get everyone on their feet dancing throughout the whole show, and this new tour will be no different. ‘Just A Boy At 70’ will be on at The Cube in Campbelltown on Friday, February 15 at 8pm. Tickets are from $49. To book or for more information call 4625 0000 or visit www.thecube. net.au.

Local composer back with new show EMILY FESZCZUK

enrith based Jye Bryant is returning to Sydney with a new Australian musical. The local musical theatre composer, lyricist and producer has been overseas gaining success with his work in Ireland, New York and London. The new season of his production ‘The Things I Could Never Tell Steven’ will be centre stage as a part of the 2019 Mardi Gras Festival, which is a huge event every year in Sydney. Presented by Whimsical Productions, the one act 70 minute musical revolves around the main character Steven.

While you never meet Steven, you learn all about him from the four key people in his life. His wife, mother, father and surprising ex-boyfriend share intimate details leaving you to discover that Steven has secrets of his own which affect all his relationships. Full of well-crafted songs be sure to make the trip to support a talented creator from the area and witness a great tale. ‘The Things I Could Never Tell Steven’ will be on at Limelight on Oxford in Darlinghurst from February 20 to March 2. Tickets are from $30. To book or for more information visit www. whimsicalproductions.com.au.

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Penrith’s first Pet-Friendly Café! NK Centre - Shop 2/450 High Street, Penrith

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OFFERING HOME-STYLE FOOD AND GREAT COFFEE WITHOUT BREAKING YOUR BUDGET

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT AT PANTHERS

THIS FEBRUARY DON’T CHANGE - THE ULTIMATE INXS EXPERIENCE

FOREVER DIAMOND SHOW

SAT

FEB

SAT

Forever Diamond is a 40-year tribute to the music of Neil Diamond covering albums from Hot August Night, Love at The Greek, Beautiful Noise and the Jazz Singer. With hits including “Cracklin Rosie” “Solitary Man” “Sweet Caroline” “Song Sung Blue” plus Grammy Award-winning duet “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers”. This award-winning show will have you tapping your feet and singing along and with Peter’s Irish charm having a bit of a laugh as well. Experience a spontaneous display of energy and sensuality with the superb talents of Peter Byrne and Forever Diamond, a show performing Diamond’s greatest hits spanning over three decades, in an uncanny portrayal that has to be seen to be believed. Peter Byrne’s capacity to recreate Neil Diamond to a standard which impressed Diamond’s pianist on his last Australian tour says it all. Tom Hensley gave Peter a resounding nod of approval after seeing his Diamond tribute. The day you see a better Diamond on stage will be the day the man himself appears.

FEB

A truly one-of-a-kind live experience not to be missed. Don’t Change captures all the passion and energy that is INXS. Featuring a line-up of 6 exceptional musicians fronted by the charismatic Blair Dwyer, Don’t Change recreates a concert-style tribute to one of the greatest live stadium acts the world has ever seen. Since their successful 2016 launch in Sydney, Don’t Change have been entertaining audiences across the country. This fully authentic 2-hour production takes audiences on an engaging musical journey through all the biggest INXS hits, spanning 3 decades, with tracks such as Never Tear Us Apart, Original Sin, Don’t Change, Listen Like Thieves, Burn For You, Need You Tonight, Pretty Vegas, I Send A Message, Devil Inside and many, many more!

DIGGER REVELL & VICKY O’KEEFE

SUN

FEB

By popular demand and returning to Panthers is Digger Revell and Vicky O’Keefe with their show “The Best Years of Our Lives!” Digger Revell, a pioneer of rock n’ roll and Vicky O’Keefe, daughter of “The Wild One” Johnny O’Keefe, team up at Panthers Penrith, to present an incredible afternoon of music and memories! Be transported back to those exciting, unforgettable days of The Sydney Stadium… Bandstand… Six O’clock Rock… Sing, Sing, Sing. Commemorating the 40thanniversary tribute to Johnny O’Keefe…Australia’s King of RnR as well as celebrating the 60th birthday of Australian Rock n Roll Music, this show is a must-see. Digger Revell, an absolute legend, performs all of his Top Ten Hits, together with Rockabilly, Country Ballads, and Sixties Classics. Digger’s sensational Al Jolson tribute brings the house down! Vicky O’Keefe presents for you a special moving tribute to J.O.K. The Wild One…She’s My Baby…So Tough…Come On and Take My Hand, etc. Vicky’s emotional duet with her loving Dad on the big screen… “I’m Counting on You” leaves audiences mesmerised, not a dry eye left in the house. The huge finale will make you want to shout with glee as you relive “The Best Years of Our Lives!” This special show will not be repeated so make sure you get in early and purchase your tickets now.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, February 8

Bad 80’s Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Krazy Katz – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Mr James Band – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Franky Valentyn Duo – Hubertus Country Club Free entry, 1pm 4773 4444 Mary’s Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 7pm 4721 5764

Burlesque Spectacular – Blacktown Workers From $12, 8pm 9830 0600 Xtreme Bulls – Jamison Hotel $35, 3pm 4721 5764 Akinga St Marys Band Club, 9623 1211 Saturday, February 9, 9pm, free entry

The Forever Diamond Show Penrith Panthers, 1800 061 991 Friday, February 8, 8pm, $32.40

Vintage Movie Morning – Penrith City Library Free entry, 9.30am 4732 7891 Creedence Show & Woman of Rock – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Never Ending 80s Summer Mix Tape Party – O’Donoghues $30, 7pm 4735 5509 Mary’s Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 7pm 4721 5764 Sportsmen Supporting Cancer Lunch – Jamison Hotel $90, 10am 4721 5764 Live DJ – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Confetti Disco Band St Marys Leagues Club, 9677 7777 Friday, February 15, 9pm, free entry

Chris Drummond Duo – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4734 555 Rogue Syndicate – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 9pm 4736 4466 Queerstories – Riverside Theatre From $22, 8pm 8839 3399 DJ & live band – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Soundproofed – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Tropfest Short Film Festival – Parramatta Park Free entry, 4.30pm www.tropfest.org.au

Live DJ – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Karaoke & DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Pool comp – Penrith Hotel $3, 7pm 4721 2060 Gallen vs Hopoate – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 7pm 4736 4466

Saturday, February 9

Friday, February 15

Sunday, February 10

Mike Hallam Hot Five – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Spina-Benignetti Piano Duo – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub From $15, 7.30pm 4723 5050 Chosen Few – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Old School Band – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777

Dwayne Elix – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Muddy Feet – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777 K Brosas – Blacktown Workers From $65, 6pm 9830 0600 Take a Hit Duo – Workers Sports Free Entry, 2pm 8822 2444 The James Lees Duo – Hubertus Country Club Free entry, 1pm 4773 4444 Gong Xi! Songs For The Lunar New Year – Riverside Theatre From $28, 3pm 8839 3399

Cinema In The Park – Victoria Park St Marys Free entry, 6pm 1300 736 836 Comedy At Riverside – Riverside Theatre From $25, 8pm 8839 3399 DJ & live band – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Mothers of Rock – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384

Sunday, February 17

The Shuffle Boys – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Dj Soloman – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777 The Westies Market – Nepean Creative & Performing Arts High School Free entry, 9am markets@thewesties.com.au The Ideal Home Exhibition – Penrith Regional Gallery Free entry, Running until March 24 4735 1100 Jesus Christ Superstar – Riverside Theatre From $35, Running until February 23 8839 3399 Behind The Lines Exhibition Riverside Theatre, 8839 3399 Running until February 21, free entry

Karaoke & DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Pool comp – Penrith Hotel $3, 7pm 4721 2060

Saturday, February 16

Laurie Bennett – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 One Hit Wonders – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 M7 – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Confetti Disco Band – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 Lakeside Cinema – Hubertus Country Club Free entry, 8pm 4773 4444 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4734 555

W E’l l M a k e it

HAPPEN

LOCAL SAFE RELIABLE PROFESSIONAL

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CALL PHIL:

0413 577 817 www.dixonscranes.com.au

O D UST

Penrith Museum of Printing Open Saturdays • Penrith Paceway • 0415 625 573 Leonay Probus Club Third Friday of the month 4735 5157 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Emu Craft Market Second Saturday of the month • Nepean High School

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Nepean Retired Men’s Club Third Wednesday of each month • 0401 507 260 Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of each month • The Hub at 10am

Wrestling action for the whole family Come watch the best of the best battle it out in a family-friendly show of live wrestling at the Australasian Wrestling Federation’s ‘AWF Wrestling February Fallout 2019’ event at PCYC Penrith. Showcasing local and national talent, this entertaining all ages event starts at 6.30pm on Saturday, February 9. Tickets start from $10. For more information or to book, visit www.awfwrestling.com.au.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

Sunset Station Singers Mondays 7.30pm St Marys RSL • 0408 218 965 Glenmore Park Probus Club Third Wednesday of the month • 9673 2580 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143

Summer fun with outdoor movie

Get crafty at festival

Hubertus Country Club is showing ‘Ralph Breaks The Internet’ at a free outdoor cinema at 8pm on Saturday, February 16.

CraftAlive Festival is on from February 8 to 10 starting at 9am daily at Penrith Panthers. Tickets from $12. Visit www.craftalive.com.au.

PRE ORDER NOW FOR

PRE ORDER SPEAKING ROSES NOW FOR

%0)2ġ 2)'7 ]%Ł %0)2ġ 2)'7 ]%Ł AT EMU FLORIST

AT EMU FLORIST

Valentine's Day Flowers

Surprise your special someone with romantic ﬂowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist. Don't forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor. We can deliver your Valentine's Day gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.

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0247 35 1106 / 1800 261 163 WWW.SPEAKINGROSES.SYDNEY

Kingswood Florist 02 9623 4589 | 02 4521 5079 02 4732 2182 Shop 1. 202 Great Western Highway, Kingswood

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0247 35 1106 / 1800 261 163 WWW.EMUFLORIST.COM.AU

Red Cross Penrith Branch Meeting February 14, 10am CWA Room • 0405 332 464

is returning… albeit nearly two decades after it originally aired. ‘Changing Rooms’ hits screens next week, this time with a new host and on a new channel. Now on 10, Natalie Bassingthwaighte will host the revived reno series when it premieres on Wednesday, February 13 at 7.30pm. Two episodes will air each week, with the second episode airing on Thursday nights. Each week two couples swap homes and are tasked with making over three rooms in five days with just $20,000 to spend.

It’s been confirmed the new season of 

Nathan Taylor

‘Dancing with the Stars’ will premiere on Monday, February 18 on 10. Grant Denyer and Amanda Keller will front the new series.

SBS journalist Sarah Abo has signed 

TV NEWS

with Channel Nine. Abo has worked on shows including ‘SBS World News’, ‘Dateline’ and ‘Small Business Secrets’. She has plenty of experience and will be a fresh face on ‘60 Minutes’ this year. ‘60 Minutes’ airs Sundays at 8.30pm.

US drama ‘God Friended Me’ has been 

FEBRUARY 13

7.30PM

renewed for a second season. The show currently airs on Channel Seven. Netflix hit ‘Fuller House’ has been 

renewed for a fifth and final season. 18 episodes will air in season five, with producers “saving the best for last”. Let’s hope Mary-Kate and/or Ashley Olsen finally make an appearance in the last ever season, now that really would be the best! The final season of ‘Fuller House’ is expected to air later this year.

Animal Planet has renewed ‘Crikey! 

FEBRUARY 18 DANCING WITH THE STARS, 10

It’s the Irwins’ for another season. The series follows the Irwin family as they continue Steve Irwin’s mission to bring people closer to animals and inspire people to become Wildlife Warriors.

The new season of ‘Real Housewives 

CHANGING ROOMS, CHANNEL 10 of New York City’ will premiere on Arena on Thursday, March 7 at 1.35pm – express from the US. A primetime replay will air at 8.30pm. 7mate has announced new episodes 

of ‘The Simpsons’, ‘Family Guy’ and ‘American Dad’ will be hitting screens on Wednesday, February 13.

CBS has renewed ‘FBI’, ‘Magnum 

P.I.’ and ‘The Neighbourhood’ for second seasons. The shows air in Australia on 10 and Foxtel.

One for the kids or people of my vin

tage, new episodes of iconic cartoon ‘The Tom and Jerry Show’ are hitting Boomerang on Saturday, March 2 at 5.35pm. It’s being described as “a fresh take on the classic series”.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

One of my favourite shows as a kid 

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

At the movies... Restoring faith in humanity GREEN BOOK  2 hours, 10 mins that would accept African-American people. Peter Farrelly has done a brilliant job directing with the main highlight being the relationship between the two leads. The men develop as individuals so much with the help of each other as the movie progresses. They learn about respecting other people’s cultures but also become self- aware about their own identities. While the film does contain some clichés it deals with serious issues with humorous dialogue keeping it light- hearted. ‘Green Book’ is a feel- good movie that makes you realise that simple acts of kindness and understanding can help restore some faith in humanity.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

Crossword ACROSS 1. Honey liquor 4. Pencil-mark removers 8. 2.2046 pounds 11. Jungle creeper 13. Discipline 15. Jabbed with leg 17. ... in good time 18. Spank 20. Aural organ 21. Toes the line 24. Head monk 27. Social blunder, faux ... 28. Anecdote 30. Spooky 31. Deeds 33. Reﬁ ll gun 34. Inhibit 35. London’s ... Park 36. Ornamental ribbon 39. Peacefully 42. Curls (hair) 44. Turned up 45. Linked 46. Timber cutters 48. Witless 49. Childhood ambition 50. Peer 52. Amphitheatre centre 54. Request 55. Shouts 56. Likes 57. Intense (colour) 60. Furniture wood 62. Pet rodent, ... pig 65. Carefree 67. Rude 69. Supply (uniforms) 70. Air traﬃ c monitor 72. Leaf beverage 73. Qualifying rounds 75. Black/white shades 77. Parties 79. As a result 81. Trouble 82. Gibe 84. Seoul is there, South ... 85. Shoplift 86. Figure (out) 87. Spend extravagantly 88. On the summit of

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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Last week’s Word Search solution

Test your knowledge about classic TV shows in our special trivia quiz!

ON THE

RECORD

1. Who starred as Richie Cunningham in ‘Happy Days’? 2. Ricky Nelson, who died in a plane crash in the 1980s, starred in which record breaking family comedy? 3. Who played Mork in ‘Mork & Mindy’?

4. What number secret agent was Maxwell Smart in the spy comedy ‘Get Smart’? 5. Who was the middle daughter on ‘The Brady Bunch’? 6. In what year did the longrunning series ‘MASH’ first premiere?

ANSWERS 1. Ron Howard 2. Ozzie and Harriet 3. Robin Williams 4. 86 5. Jan 6. 1972

Trivia Quiz

A unique podcast series telling the stories of Penrith’s remarkable people. westernweekender.com.au/podcasts or search Western Weekender on iTunes. WW33993

Friday, February 8, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

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religion

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

your

Of course you’ve heard of it, but how much do you really know about the magic of the Bible? There is a children’s song that goes, “the best book to read is the Bible; if you read it every day it will help you on your way; the best book to read is the Bible”. Sadly, for many people, even though they may know parts of it, largely the Bible is a book that is unknown. How sad this is! The Bible isn’t the world’s largest selling book for nothing! Consider these things. In the Bible’s book of Psalms, the writer says how God’s word to him “is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”. That is, the Bible gives direction in life, helping us see how we should live. In the New Testament Gospel of Luke, Luke explains that before he wrote, he “carefully investigated everything” about Jesus from “eyewitnesses” and then set out “an orderly account” so his readers could have “certainty” about the events describing Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Finally, the Apostle Paul in one of his New Testament letters says how the word of God is “able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Jesus”.

Rev John Lavender www.gpa.church

The Bible is not a book to gather dust on the shelf! It is a book to read; to be thought about. Not sure where to start? Get yourself an easy to read version and start with the gospel of Luke or Mark. Then check out the exciting beginnings of the early

church in the book of Acts or read one of Paul’s letters such as Colossians. In a world full of confusion and uncertainty about truth, meaning and purpose, to be given “a lamp for your feet and a light to your path” has got to be a good thing.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

your

health

Questions that could lead to a life changing health twist When it comes to your health and nutrition, information and knowledge is power...

Rachel Fox Functional Nutritionist at OnePointHealth 4732 5188 onepointhealth.com.au

What if I told you nutrition has less to do with food that we should avoid and has more to do with what we should include? Are you more likely to create your own eating lifestyle, if you knew why? Would you look at your diet differently if you knew it could mean the removal of fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety, stress or gut issues? Functional nutrition considers how your body is functioning. Are you experiencing muscle cramps because you are low in magnesium? Do you have restless legs or a foggy head because you are low in iron? Are you fatigued because you are low in B12? Are you an athlete and have suddenly started to experience burn outs, consistent flu like symptoms or can’t perform like you once could? What if you knew that intense exercise drops vitamin levels including Vitamin C, leading to fatigue and low mood? Would you want to routinely include lemon in water to support your vitamin C levels to prevent this? Would you routinely eat an apple straight after training if you knew it

replenished glycogen stores, improving recovery? Would you add protein to every meal if you knew that helped with weight loss? What if you started a new medication? Would you want to know that certain fruits such as grapefruits shouldn’t be consumed at the same time because it affects the efficacy of the medication? Have you started a new medication but now feeling weak or experience joint pains? What if you knew that certain medications depleted nutrients such as zinc and coq10 causing symptoms? Would you want to know how to replenish those declining nutrients?

your Alex McKenzie

money Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

Alex McKenzie looks at the findings of the Financial Services Royal Commission...

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Would you include more water in your diet if you knew that it supported constipation, blood pressure and improved dopamine levels (motivation hormone)? Would you include cheese or eggs in your diet if you knew it contained an amino acid called tryptophan, which boosts your serotonin levels (happy hormone)? Nutrition is about giving to your body all the things that makes it move, think and function. Would you choose to include the foods your body is requiring? Would focusing on the why effectively encourage your food choices? Have you considered your nutrition?

For people like me in the financial services industry, waiting for the findings and recommendations of the Royal Commission was quite stressful. After months of hearing horror stories of the behaviours of the banks, Superannuation funds and insurance companies, it became apparent that changes needed to be made. What the little guys like me were concerned about is how would the changes impact my business and my clients. Although the criticisms against the banks were harsh, the changes to business operations were not as brutal as many were predicting. Many were predicting that banks would be forced to move away from their vertical integration model. This is where they own both advice and wealth businesses and the potential for conflicted interests are high. The concern is that the banks (including AMP) use their advice business to funnel funds into their wealth businesses, not always in the best interest of the client. This did not come to fruition. One of the surprising big losers from

the recommendations was the industry funds. The recommendation to have an individual only defaulted into a fund once will greatly reduce the amount of funds opened each year. With the bulk of default funds being industry funds, they will be hit hardest by this change. The other area that will hit industry funds was the banning of what Commissioner Hayne described as hawking Super funds. Super funds will no longer be able to incentivise via what was described as wining and dining employers to use funds as a default for their employees. Advice fees will no longer be charged on MySuper funds, this makes sense to me, but will see some blow back from both the advice industry and the default Super funds (again primarily industry funds). If the advice is to invest in the low cost with defined minimum feature fund option, I don’t think that you’d easily be able to justify the ongoing advice fee being charged for this advice. All these recommendations are designed to protect Superannuation investors with either low balances or low involvement in their Superannuation and I agree that they seem fair. Like all things the implementation will be the key to the success of these recommendations. I’m sure there will be much more to play out with the Royal Commission.

tech

How to control those annoying spam emails

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

your

Email is awesome, spam is not so great...

David Norris Managing Director Nortec IT (02) 9894 9514

A question I get asked a lot is how can I stop getting spam emails. Spam emails may or may not be from valid companies, or they may be phishing emails which I covered in an earlier article. Addressing how to deal with spam is dependant on what type of email you have. Personal Emails – IMAP/POP-based This email type has been around since the beginning of the Internet and unfortunately is showing its age. It is still common but is declining in usage. Your Internet provider’s server holds your emails until you pull the emails down onto your PC using an email client/ program. The server does not do any filtering or spam protection at all. The solution – most anti-virus packages have an offering that includes spam protection. They are a bundle of programs, not just anti- virus – they start at $100 and usually cover three or more PCs. Personal emails – Web-based Web-based emails have become the norm for home users. The more popular ones include Hotmail, Yahoo, Outlook, iCloud and Gmail. All of these have a version of anti- spam built- in. It is quite basic by default but can be trained or tweaked to your satisfaction. If you use webmail and are receiving spam, then

Google how to optimise spam filtering for your webmail provider. Business Email – Server based Business emails have typically been run from customer- owned and operated mail servers. Your options are – you can purchase and run on-premises anti-spam software on your server, or you can redirect your mail to go through a specialist mail cleaning company before the mail arrives at your server. There are benefits and disadvantages of both solutions. Business Emails – Cloud Host (O365, G Suite) These solutions when configured

properly do stop most, but not all spam. It is after all in their best interest to offer a great end user experience. This solution uses a shared cloud- based solution to manage your mail. It is a superior solution with many advantages over the other solutions. The providers often bundle large amounts of cloud storage space and tools included. The providers also offer expanded spam protection at an additional cost. For additional information on how to deal with spam and information on how to contact me for additional advice go to nort.ec/wwspam.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

your swim safety

CPR can be the difference between life and death If you have a pool, you need to know CPR...

Julie Fletcher

sion of children around water are vital. Be sure to fence the pool, always shut the gate, and regularly check the fence and gate for repairs needed, especially if the gate is not self latching. Make sure your home swimming pool is safe for your children with Royal Life Saving’s Pool Safety app – an interactive checklist for your home swimming pool, available on the Royal Life Saving Australia website or the App Store. CPR courses are run monthly at Nepean Aquatic Centre.

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Nepean Swim and Fitness julie@nepeanswim.com.au nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au and on Facebook

2018/19 has been one of the worst summers on record, with 86 people drowned nationally from December 1 2018 – February 2, 2019, and 28 drownings in NSW alone. In many of these cases, the fast and effective application of CPR may have saved some of these lives, as the first five minutes after cardiac arrest are the most critical. So, what exactly is CPR? Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) refers to the actions taken to keep a casualty alive after their breathing and heartbeat has stopped. Resuscitation and early intervention can mean the difference between life and death. Statistics are one thing, but the effectiveness of CPR really hits home when you consider a real life example last month, when one-year-old Ella Zirp’s life was saved by her father’s quick response. Ella was blue in the face and lifeless when her dad scooped her out of the backyard pool at the family home in southern Sydney. The little girl had slipped from the side of the pool into the water with barely a sound or a splash while her father was distracted by one of his two other daughters, Keira, three, as they all played together in the pool.

After being alerted to his daughter’s plight by another of his children, Mr Zirps grabbed Ella out of the water and handed her to his brother-in-law who also knows the resuscitation technique that alternately massages the heart and fills the lungs of a lifeless person. Working together, the two men alternated between blowing breaths into the little girl’s mouth and compressing her chest. After two- and- a- half minutes, Ella burst back to life, expelling approximately one litre of water. It was, in some respects, the ideal resuscitation — Ella’s airways were already clear when paramedics arrived, meaning they did not have to intubate her. And by getting her breathing started within a few minutes they restored the flow of oxygen to Ella’s organs in time to avoid brain damage or other long-term health problems. Within 24 hours, this little girl was out of hospital and home with her family. It could have turned out very differently had CPR not been applied quickly. Experts estimate the number of Australians with training in CPR is around five per cent — but a child who receives it during an emergency is four times more likely to survive. Learning CPR is a must for any parent who has a backyard pool. Remember, CPR is just one of the important pillars of water safety. Early swimming lessons and supervi-

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travel

Eastern Canada delivers more than a few pleasant surprises

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

your

A D A C AN

Expedition cruiser, Roderick Eime, explores the wild and wonderful shores of eastern Canada aboard Silversea’s Silver Cloud...

Roderick Eime Content thanks to WTF Media

The waterways around Newfoundland, Labrador, Nova Scotia and eastern Quebec are dotted with lighthouses, some of them more than 200-years-old. There are some 150 of them in Nova Scotia alone. Yet even with all these lighthouses, ships still once came to grief in their hundreds. Of course, these days with solar and wind power coupled with modern electronics, the life of a lonely lighthouse keeper is a thing of the past. Most of the old structures are preserved for heritage value with new, stark metal automated pylons standing nearby. Today we visit Havre Saint Pierre with its Mingan Archipelago National Park, home to hundreds of weird, mushroom and phallus- like limestone monoliths formed some 500 million years ago when the ocean was much warmer. With an escort of a tiny Minke Whale, our little local ferry arrives at the pier of Petite ile au Marteau where Guy, our Parks Canada guide awaits. “Hello bonjour,” he says in the quaint bilingual greeting that is part of life all

over Canada, but particularly so in this region where Arcadian French communities still speak their own form of the language. “Keep your eyes open and you may witness sea parrots or sea swallows,” he advises, using the local terms for puffins and terns. The French spoken all through these parts has its own dialects too, peculiar to local regions and even villages. So strange is it, that even the native Quebecois have to beg for a repeat. Parisians would die with a leg in the air. After a stroll of a few hundred metres we arrive at the lighthouse and the keeper’s cottage and outbuildings. Guy points out the interesting plants like Labrador Tea, a curious, star-leafed plant favoured as a herbal tea by the early settlers, but beware. You must steep the tea in hot water only to get the mild, calming benefits. Boil the water and you get both hallucinogens and a laxative. We joke that if you made that mistake, you would see purple monsters and poo yourself! As we continue around the Gulf of St Lawrence aboard Silver Cloud, many more lighthouses are counted including several on the Iles de la Madeleine (which we will visit) and the Quebec coast to the west. Just the other day while visiting the island of Newfoundland we were reminded that it was the Vikings who were the first Europeans to settle in North America. Who knew? It’s true. The ancient Scandinavian sagas

have long told of great feats of exploration and conquest, but these sometimes fanciful tales lacked hard evidence. But in 1960, two Norwegians conducted a thorough survey of the area, finding archaeological evidence and locating the settlement now known as L’Anse aux Meadows. The site was later inscribed by UNESCO on the World Heritage list. Despite many years of excavation, there’s not a lot to see of the original settlement. The digs have been re- interred by Canada’s Parks Authority and replica structures built adjacent to the site. Here we met enthusiastic reenactors ‘living’ in the sod-covered timber-framed buildings carrying on life much as how these first settlers would have done 1000 years ago. Fascinating. This exploration is an expedition in the true sense. Silversea Expeditions’ ship, Silver Cloud, has recently been rebuilt and enhanced to become one of the preeminent such vessels currently sailing the world’s oceans. Apart from the wealth of historic ports, nature lovers can expect to see humpback whales, white- beaked dolphins, raptors and distinctive seabirds like the emblematic Atlantic Puffins. Silver Cloud returns to Canada in September this year for a series of exceptional voyages that include Arctic ports in Nunavut and the Baffin Sea as well as Greenland. Pictured: Northern Lights from the deck of Silver Cloud.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

your retirement

Understanding entry and exit fees in retirement villages Retirement living comes with costs you need to be aware of...

Bianca Tulich Tulich Group & operator of The Royce @ Penrith Panthers

As the name suggests, an exit fee (or deferred management fee) is charged when a resident in a retirement community sells their home. Exit fees are unique to the retirement living sector, so it’s no surprise most people aren’t aware of them until they start looking into downsizing or a change in lifestyle in their retirement. Exit fees are designed to make it more affordable to move into a retirement village by deferring some of the up-front expense. This means that the cost of buying into a retirement village (sometimes called the entry fee) is usually lower than buying a similar home in a similar location, making it easier to enjoy the lifestyle benefits that come from living in a retirement community. Many village operators will give purchasers the option to have a higher entry fee and lower exit fee, or vice versa. This provides extra flexibility, allowing potential residents to structure their finances in the most effective way possible. The exit fee is usually capped so there is a maximum you will pay no matter how long you live in the village.

Sometimes the fee is calculated on the entry price rather than the sale price, so the resident will not benefit from any capital gain in their home. If the Deferred Management Fee is calculated on the new selling price, you

Big news for your big retirement Stage 1 at The Royce has almost sold out, but don’t worry our new release of Stage 2 will give you another opportunity. There are one, two and three-bedroom apartments with an exceptional level of ﬁnish, available from just $590,000. So think big and reserve yours now. Call 4720 5633, visit theroyce.com.au or view the display suite in the Panthers Penrith foyer at 123 Mulgoa Rd Penrith.

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On Monday 24 September 2018 at approximately 4.20pm a white Toyota Hilux motor vehicle was travelling in a westerly direction in the number 3 lane on the M4 Motorway at St Clair. The vehicle swerved right on to the median strip and came into collision with a tree. The occupants of the white Toyota Hilux were seriously injured.

WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters submitted for publication are done so on the condition that The Western Weekender may edit them, without affecting the overall message or intent of the letter. The Western Weekender reserves the right to publish letters in other publications. COPYRIGHT Content in this publication belongs to Western Sydney Publishing Group, publishers of The Western Weekender, or its licensors, advertisers or affiliates. All content in this publication is protected by Australian and international copyright laws. ETHICAL AND ACCURATE CONTENT The Western Weekender operates under a code covering both ethics and accuracy. If you believe either have been compromised in relation to editorial or advertising content that appears in this publication, you should initially contact the Managing Editor. WW639

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

AUTO

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

Sport

BULL RIDING

Have a bucking good time p.59

Tyrell Fuimaono, James Tamou, Dean Whare and James Fisher-Harris have been chosen to play in the All Stars game. Photos: Penrith Panthers

Footy’s back next week NATHAN TAYLOR

fter a long, hot summer footy fans will finally get a taste of rugby league next weekend when the Indigenous All Stars battle the New Zealand Maori All Stars for the very first time. To be held next Friday, February 15, Penrith will have four representatives in the game played at Melbourne’s AAMI Park. Panthers centre Dean Whare, lock James Fisher- Harris and prop James Tamou feature in the New Zealand Maori squad while new recruit and

expected to be included in the Maori line- up but wasn’t considered due to off-season knee surgery. Former Panther turned Gold Coast Titan Tyrone Peachey has been selected for the Indigenous All Stars, while ex- Panther Corey Harawira- Naera has been chosen for the Maori team. Other big names selected to take part next weekend include Kaylyn Ponga, Josh Addo-Carr, Will Chambers, Andrew Fifita, James Roberts, Dane Gagai and Latrell Mitchell, with the latter skipping the World Club Challenge game with the Roosters in England to represent his Indigenous heritage. Former NSW coach Laurie Daley

former Rabbitoh Tyrell Fuimaono has been included in the Indigenous All Stars team. It’s been two years since the NRL’s last All Stars fixture when the Indigenous All Stars defeated the World All Stars 34-8 in Newcastle. The concept was rested while the NRL evaluated the match and dealt with scheduling issues. With the New Zealand Maori All Stars replacing the World side this year, it’s expected to add more passion, culture and tribalism to the event which started in 2010. Panthers winger and New Zealand captain Dallin Watene- Zelezniak was

will coach the Indigenous side, while ex- Warriors halfback Stacey Jones will be in charge of the New Zealand Maori All Stars. Next weekend’s All Stars event will officially open the 2019 NRL season, with most club trial games to get underway the following week. Penrith will play their first trial game against South Sydney on Saturday, February 23 at Redfern Oval. The Battle of the West trial against Parramatta will take place at Panthers Stadium on Saturday, March 2 before the two sides do battle again in round one. Don’t miss our NRL season preview wraparound on Friday, March 8.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

BULL RIDING

Have a bucking good time at the Jamo this weekend NATHAN TAYLOR

he best bull riders from around the country will be hitting the saddle in Penrith this weekend when the Jamison Hotel car park transforms into a bull riding arena. The second round of the Xtreme Bulls Pro Series, which will be held this Saturday, February 9, will see the top 20 bull riders in Australia battling it out for up to $8,000 in prize money. International pro bull rider Troy Wilkinson and 2016 Xtreme Bulls tour champion Kyle Maskiell will join Australia’s biggest rising stars of bull riding, taking on the meanest Xtreme bucking bulls. Gill Bros Rodeo Company will be bringing their best bucking bulls into town including superstar bucking bull ‘Hillbilly Deluxe’ as well as his travelling partners ‘Cool Bananas’ and ‘Crash’. Xtreme Bulls Australia Event Manager Simon Cresswell said it’s always a rocking good night. “We come out once a year each February. We had a packed house at the Jamison Hotel last year, the crowd was enormous and it was a really great, high energy event,” he told the Weekender.

“The bull riding itself will go for two hours, with a Cold Chisel tribute band to play inside the hotel afterwards.” But it won’t just be the experienced cowboys doing their thing in front of the large local crowd, for the first time in Penrith junior bull riders will be getting in on the action too. Xtreme Mini Bulls will see gutsy kids as young as nine compete to hold on the longest. “The kids will compete riding miniature bulls… it’s really cool to watch and the crowd love it,” Cresswell said. “The top kids at the end of the year will represent Australia in Las Vegas at the Junior World Finals – it’s a pretty cool thing for them. “They are very brave kids and they are the real deal. They are true blue little cowboys.” The Xtreme Bulls Pro Series will be coming to the Jamison Hotel in Penrith on Saturday, February 9. Gates open at 5.30pm with the main event beginning at 6.30pm. Tickets cost $35 for adults and $20 for children. To book for the event this weekend, visit the Jamison Hotel or head online and visit www.oztix.com.au.

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

SPORT

Fox leads Aussie charge at festival Story continued from » p. 64 “I can’t wait to kick-off the season on home waters and it’s awesome to have so many of the world’s best paddlers come and join us for this exciting event,” Fox said. “We don’t have many competitions at home and it’s amazing to have the world come to Sydney to paddle down under. “It really will be a World Championship level event and it will be a great benchmark for us Aussies heading into the Olympic qualifying season. It’s national team selection time for us and it’s really exciting to get to take on the rest of the world at the same time.” All three Rio 2016 women’s K1 Olympic podium finishers will be at the start line, giving Fox the opportunity for a re- match against Olympic champion Maialen Chourraut from Spain and New Zealand’s Olympic silver medallist Luuka Jones. The event is also an Australian national team selection event to decide the national team canoe slalom athletes that will contest the 2019 Olympic qualifying season. Racing at the 2019 Sydney International Whitewater Festival begins next Friday, February 15. See www.whitewater.paddle.org. au for info. Entry is free.

Lunch with legends Chance to rub shoulders with celebs at local charity event NATHAN TAYLOR

ith the footy season right around the corner, Jamison Hotel will host a Sportsmen Lunch featuring local rugby league legend Mark Geyer and TV funnyman Rob Shehadie. To be held next Friday, February 15, the Sportsmen Lunch will be hosted by Triple M’s Anthony Maroon and will raise muchneeded funds for the Kids with Cancer Foundation. $10 from each ticket sold as well as proceeds of all auction items will be donated to the Kids with Cancer Foundation, which provides support to families including assisting with medical bills, groceries, living expenses and accommodation near hospitals. Single tickets cost $90 per person, which includes drinks on arrival, a grazing platter, lunch and show. Tables are also available for $1500. South Penrith resident Mark Geyer is an NRL Premiership winner with the 1991 Penrith Panthers as well as a popular Triple M personality.

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Mark Geyer, Anthony Maroon and Rob Shehadie will be at the Sportsmen Lunch Rob Shehadie is a comedian, actor and writer famous for such shows as ‘Fat Pizza’, ‘Housos’ and ‘Here Come The Habibs’. The Sydney- born comic of Lebanese descent has performed numerous stage show comedies around the country and has made countless appearances at charity events. Anthony Maroon is a radio legend and currently works for Triple M in Sydney

as a rugby league commentator and announcer. The trio combined will make for an unmissable event. So if you love your sport and a laugh, next week’s Sportsmen Lunch at the Jamison Hotel on Smith Street, Penrith, is the place to be. For more information and to book, call 4721 5764 or email jamisonhotel@ alhgroup.com.au.

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The GWS Giants will head into the 2019 AFL season with an unchanged leadership line- up with Phil Davis and Callan Ward confirmed as club captains for the eighth straight season. Vice-captains Stephen Coniglio and Josh Kelly will continue to support the duo, with Matt de Boer rounding out the fiveman leadership group. “Phil and Callan have developed into two of the finest leaders in the competition and we are really proud to have the two of them leading us into the 2019 season,” said GWS General Manager of Football Wayne Campbell.

Former Test captain highlights annual Captain's Lunch NATHAN TAYLOR

Player behaviour on NRL's radar in 2019

Former cricket captain Kim Hughes

Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary

organiser Michael Wholohan said the Captain’s Lunch is one of the great days on the sporting calendar. “It will be great to have Ivan there to see how Penrith are shaping up ahead of the season and Kim Hughes was a legend of Australian cricket in the ‘80s,” he said. “Tickets are selling fast but there are

still seats available in what promises to be a memorable day as it always is.” Penrith Cricket Club’s annual Captain’s Lunch will be held at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club on Friday, February 15 from 12.30pm. Tickets are $150 per person. To book, email thecaptainslunch@ bigpond.com or call 0419 470 695.

The NRL says it will continue to have a tough stance on player behaviour this season, following a turbulent off- season full of scandal. “We have asked the NRL leadership team to work with clubs, senior players and the Rugby League Players’ Association to take immediate steps to reduce the integrity related issues we have seen over the last few months,” said ARLC Chairman, Peter Beattie. “We want our game to adopt best practice strategies to mitigate the risk of things going wrong off the field. “The responsibility for delivering this improvement rests with players, clubs, and the NRL.”

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ormer Australian Test captain Kim Hughes and returning Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary will headline Penrith Cricket Club’s annual Captain’s Lunch next Friday afternoon. To be held inside the Ron Mulock Room at Panthers Leagues Club, the ninth annual Captain’s Lunch will raise funds for the local cricket club. Over the years, the Captain’s Lunch has welcomed an array of cricketing identities including Glenn McGrath, Richie Benaud and Kerry O’Keeffe. This year is no different with former Aussie skipper Kim Hughes on the bill. The 65- year- old played 70 Tests for his country and is famous for hitting a century against the West Indies in 1981. Hughes’ knock was described by Ian Chappell at the time as the “bravest” innings he’d ever witnessed. Also showing his love for the game is Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, who will chat about his return to the club and about the NRL season ahead. Penrith Cricket Club coach and event

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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Friday, February 8, 2019 « the western weekender

FOOTBALL

Season from hell rolls on

Wanderers look to re-build respect as they prepare to battle Mariners on Saturday NATHAN TAYLOR

f there was one positive to take out of Western Sydney’s shocking 5-1 defeat to Newcastle last Friday – at least they didn’t squander a lead at the death again. Markus Babbel’s men were just awful in dire conditions at ANZ Stadium, with the visitors incredibly leading 5- 0 after one hour of play. Debutant Mitchell Duke came off the bench and scored almost immediately for the Wanderers in the 69th minute, but it was a rare highlight in what was a miserable evening for the home side. Speaking after the match, coach Babbel said his side were playing well until they tossed the game plan out the window. “To be fair, for the first 10- 15 minutes we followed our game plan but I don’t know why we didn’t follow our game plan anymore,” he said. “The boys tried but we did too many mistakes.” When the former German international was asked if his side were lacking confidence during games, Babbel argued it was a generational problem.

Mitchell Duke celebrates after scoring a goal on debut. Photo: Steve Christo “It has nothing to do with confidence… this is a different generation,” he said. “They are not like us when we played.

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If I lost 5-1, I’d be upset for a whole week. For them, after five minutes, it’s [back to] normal life.

“It’s not an Australian problem, it’s a whole world problem – the generation is different.” If Western Sydney are serious about turning things around and avoiding the wooden spoon, they need to beat lastplaced Central Coast tomorrow night at Spotless Stadium. The Wanderers haven’t won a game since way back on December 7, ironically against the Mariners at home. Babbel hopes his side take something out of last week’s defeat and stick to their game plan. “I hope they learn from this and we’ll prepare them for the next game the best as possible,” he said. “If we are not aggressive, if we aren’t bringing the right attitude onto the pitch, we are no chance, we are not that good. “If they follow us, if they follow the match plan and if they do what we say then we can beat any team.” Babbel also hinted that there could be major changes to the Wanderers’ playing squad next season after two years of poor results. The club is set to return to the new-look Parramatta Stadium later this year.

Around the grounds CRICKET: Penrith have failed to win three straight games, losing to Sydney University in Round 12 of the NSW Premier Cricket competition. Playing in a Two-Day match at University Oval, Sydney University won the toss and sent Penrith into bat first. Penrith scored just 121 before being dismissed. Penrith’s Brent Atherton scored 46 in the first innings. When Sydney University hit the crease later that day, they scored 146 in the first innings. On day two, Penrith hit the crease first for the second innings. The visitors scored 155 before being dismissed. Sydney University then hit the crease for their second innings. The home side took out the contest, scoring 8/131. Penrith will look to bounce back when they battle Mosman this Saturday Howell Oval. BASEBALL: Penrith have been hammered in both games against Baulkham Hills in Round 14 of the NSW State Baseball League competition. In the mid-week game, Penrith were belted 11-0, while they weren’t much better last Sunday losing 6-1. The last-placed Panthers will face Cronulla in Round 15. AFLW: The GWS Giants have lost their opening round clash against Brisbane by the skin of their teeth, going down to the Lions 29-27 last Sunday evening in Burpengary. The Giants were in front for most of the match before Brisbane hit the lead late in the third quarter. GWS got within one point in the dying minutes but the Lions just did enough to hold the visitors off.

GWS will return to action tonight when they battle newcomers North Melbourne at Drummoyne Oval. W-LEAGUE: The Western Sydney Wanderers have been thrashed in the final game of the W-League season, losing 4-1 to Newcastle last weekend. The Jets got off a strong start scoring multiple goals, with Western Sydney’s only score coming in the 66th minute through Lo’eau LaBonta. The Wanderers tried to get back into the game but Newcastle continued to hit the ball into the back of the net. It was another poor season from Western Sydney’s W-League side, winning just one game, losing 10 and drawing one. Y-LEAGUE: The Western Sydney Wanderers have failed to win back to back titles, losing to Brisbane in last Friday’s Y-League Grand Final at ANZ Stadium. In their first ever Y-League Grand Final, Brisbane were too clinical for the Wanderers, setting up the win in the first half. The Roar led 3-0 mid-way through the second half before the Wanderers finally got on the board late through talented defender Tass Mourdoukoutas. Despite the disappointing defeat, the Wanderers enjoyed another excellent Y-League season winning six games and losing two. To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/westernweekender or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

the western weekender » Friday, February 8, 2019

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Friday, February 8, 2019

Festival of whitewater NATHAN TAYLOR

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enrith will be the home to the world’s best Olympic canoe slalom paddlers next weekend as they compete for glory at the 2019 Sydney International Whitewater Festival. To be held at Penrith Whitewater Stadium, the event will be the largest international whitewater event in the Asia Pacific since the Olympic Games in 2000. It will also mark the 20- year anniversary of the course following its opening back in 1999. The stadium will come to life over two weekends this month – 15-17 and 22-24 February – with the best Olympic slalom athletes and a stellar line- up of world champions competing in an action- packed Whitewater Festival, showcasing the exciting and thrilling disciplines of canoe slalom, wildwater and freestyle canoeing. Over 350 of the world’s greatest paddlers from over 30 countries, including all three Rio individual class Olympic champions, will compete against Australia’s best. Leonay resident and two- time Olympic medallist Jessica Fox will spearhead Australia’s highly successful team. Story continues on » p. 60

Jessica Fox will be in action at the 2019 Sydney International Whitewater Festival

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