Western Weekender May 10

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Bill Shorten comforts cancer patient Sandy Eglin during a visit to Penrith Caption on Monday. Photo: Melinda Jane

BILL’S CANCER PLEDGE

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten visited Lindsay this week, committing to a new Cancer Care Centre in Penrith as he makes health a key election topic.

Nicola Barton reports on page 5

ROYAL BABY Locals welcome new bub SEE PAGE 3

NEW RECRUIT Career switch pays off SEE PAGE 27

BACK FROM THE DEAD? Hope lives for Penrith Emus SEE PAGE 72

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

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Baby fever reaches Penrith as locals welcome newest member of the Royal Family NICOLA BARTON

xcitement is well and truly in the air for Penrith’s Royals fans after the longly anticipated arrival of baby Sussex this week.

The Duchess, Meghan Markle gave birth on Tuesday morning Australian time, delivering a healthy 3.2kg baby boy. Husband Prince Harry addressed the media shortly after, announcing the exciting news.

Glenmore Park resident and lifelong royal fan, Courtney Dyer, said she has been checking her phone continuously for updates and had been eagerly awaiting the arrival.

“The video of Harry announcing the baby made me tear up a little bit.

Prince Harry is definitely my favourite, I’ve always had a crush on him, so it was exciting because it’s a new generation,” she said.

“I think Harry and Meghan are quite progressive in the way that they function, you could call them a new wave, so it will be nice to see him raised in that way that is still very privileged but also well informed.”

The 20-year-old’s two parents travelled to Windsor on the day of Harry

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the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Wild about Harry & Megs

Courtney Dyer is thrilled about the Royal Baby’s arrival. Photo: Melinda Jane and Meghan’s wedding, bringing back lots of merchandise.

“My friends think my obsession is hilarious but it’s nice to commemorate things like this. At the end of the day I’d rather be known for obsessing over the Royals than the Kardashians,” she said.

St Clair resident Miriam Sultana has grown up in a Royal-crazed household, with memorabilia on display.

Last year she met the couple at the

Sydney Opera House and said she has been counting down the days for baby Sussex to arrive.

“I have been waiting all of April and I got a notification on my phone to say it was finally here and I was just beyond excited, I’ve been checking their Instagram every morning,” she said.

Both women predict the baby to be named Arthur, although Ms Sultana has a feeling it might be James.

Miriam Sultana loves the Royal Family

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Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds The devil is in the detail troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith westernweekender Issue 1401

n the surface of it, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten’s announcement on Monday that Labor would provide $125 million for a new ‘Comprehensive Cancer Centre’ at Nepean Hospital is very good news.

But dig a little deeper, and you find the devil is in the detail.

The commitment is to deliver the $125 million in 2025 – three Federal Elections away – and it covers just 50 per cent of the total estimated cost.

Presumably, the other 50 per cent is to come from the State Government, but it’s fair to ask if Bill Shorten or Labor actually liaised with the Berejiklian Government before making Monday’s promise.

As we all know, Nepean Hospital is currently undergoing a mammoth $1 billion upgrade, which actually already includes an expansion and upgrade of the current Nepean Cancer Care Centre.

Construction at the Cancer Centre started in mid-2018 and includes a doubling of chemotherapy chairs from 15 to 30, a third radiotherapy bunker and new clinic rooms.

The very quick news cycle during elections often doesn’t allow for thorough interrogation of local commitments such as the one made by Mr Shorten on Monday, but something just doesn’t seem right here.

Is Mr Shorten planning to upgrade the Cancer Centre that is already being upgraded as I write, and if so, is the State Government – which has meticulously planned the hospital’s upgrade – in the loop? Is it willing to fund the other $125 million for a second upgrade in the space of a decade? Or are we building a new centre altogether?

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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, Chris Middleton, Donna Engelbert To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Ian Beard, Claire Catacouzinos, Bonita Vasquez

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Any funding to tackle cancer is welcome, but to not have the State Government on board before it’s promised just seems a little odd, and a commitment we should only be half celebrating.

It’s not just the $125 million commitment to Nepean Hospital that has raised eyebrows, either. Earlier in the campaign Labor announced a $15 million commitment to Jamison Park, promising to help deliver a Multi-Purpose Indoor Sport Centre.

Deputy Opposition Leader Tanya Plibersek said at the time: “I call on the New South Wales Liberal Government to match this investment to make sure this vital piece of community infrastructure becomes a reality.”

So Labor will deliver the cash, but only if the Liberal NSW Government comes to the party?

If such announcements were being made in partnership with a State Labor

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And another thing...

It was hard to buy the unity ticket that Labor was trying to sell at its campaign launch last weekend, with former Prime Ministers Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard sitting next to each other in apparent full support of Bill Shorten.

Look out for the Academy Award nominations later this year because both Mr Rudd and Ms Gillard are a chance of being nominated.

Both wear the scars of Mr Shorten and his involvement in the tumultuous leadership struggles that existed when Labor was last in charge.

To suggest that it’s all water under the bridge and everyone is suddenly on the same page would be re-writing history and creating a fairytale storyline that simply doesn’t exist.

We can only hope it’s all behind us.

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Government, it’d make a little more sense. Everyone is on the same page, and working together at different levels of government to achieve results is both admirable and desirable.

But in these cases, we have absolutely no idea if Labor has liaised with the NSW State Government at all.

If the State Government doesn’t come to the party, can we assume the money doesn’t get delivered and the promises just disappear into thin air?

Mr Shorten’s lack of detail on some of his biggest policies has dogged his campaign, but the detail on local commitments is also in question.

Labor will probably win next Saturday’s election, but it will do so with some pretty serious question marks hanging over its head.

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“The commitment is to deliver the $125 million in 2025 – three Federal Elections away”

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Shorten commits $125 million for new Cancer Care Centre at Nepean Hospital NICOLA BARTON

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Labor leader Bill Shorten visited Penrith on Monday. Photo: Melinda Jane

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pposition Leader Bill Shorten made his first visit of the election campaign to Lindsay on Monday, and he brought his cheque book along for the ride.

Mr Shorten met with Labor Candidate for Lindsay Diane Beamer at the Derby Street Family Medical Centre, to announce funding for a new Cancer Care Centre at Nepean Hospital.

The $125 million commitment will see a new Comprehensive Cancer Centre be built from 2025, covering 50 per cent of the total estimated cost.

Mr Shorten, who met with cancer patients during his visit, said Labor was in a position to make “real change”.

“In many ways today’s announcement highlights the issues in this election.

Nepean Hospital has had $5.7 million cut from it. Nepean Hospital has outgrown its current facilities and needs new investment, not cuts,” he said.

“So Labor, because we have made a decision to put patients first and to put tax subsidies for millionaires last, we are in a position where we can make real change.

“We need to make sure the Nepean Hospital gets the investment it deserves.”

Despite Mr Shorten’s concerns about Nepean Hospital, the State Government is currently delivering a $1 billion upgrade to the facility.

But Ms Beamer said she remained concerned about the current state of the hospital.

“As a State Member I helped deliver Nepean Hospital’s original oncology unit, but under the Liberals these facilities have now become woefully inadequate,” she said.

“Delivering a world-class Comprehensive Cancer Unit at Nepean Hospital is why I’m getting back into politics.”

Mr Shorten said it is clear that worldleading cancer treatment and research services are needed for the burgeoning population in the surrounding area.

The new Cancer Centre would feature the latest treatment technologies, easily accessible clinical rooms and treatment areas, a higher number of rooms for inpatients and dedicated space for worldleading research.

Labor will also deliver $2.5 million for Hawkesbury Hospital’s Emergency Department, aimed at taking pressure off Nepean Hospital.

Mr Shorten deflected questions on why the cancer project would not commence until 2025.

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Bill bus pulls into Lindsay

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Putting education first Labor commits to $3 million plan to support disadvantaged local students NICOLA BARTON

upport for disadvantaged students across Penrith will be a priority as part of a $3 million commitment by Labor.

The funding is set to help students access higher education through new specialty programs at Western Sydney University (WSU).

Programs working with refugee groups, peak bodies and not-for-profit organisations to encourage students to complete Year 12, are to benefit from the funding.

Kingswood local Isaac Mukoko is an active member of WSU’s refugee student club, United Voices.

Migrating from Zimbabwe, Mr Mukoko was determined to get educated and make a new life for his family, starting at TAFE and working his way up to now studying a PHD. He said the group plays an enormous role in supporting local disadvantaged students reach their potential.

“It supports current students who are newly arrived migrants, refugees and non refugees in allowing them to realise the opportunities at the university but also allows those students to become ambassadors, so that they can visit children or high

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school students and become role models for them,” he said.

“I have seen this to be a very important program since I joined it and I have managed to visit many schools. From the visits we were able to meet and mentor young migrant students who are very eager to advance in their education.”

The funding will also support the launch of programs such as mentoring for Year 8-12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, ‘taster’ days for students to learn about higher education pathways, and a program to support young Pacific Islanders in low socio-economic areas.

Labor Candidate for Lindsay, Diane Beamer, said supporting disadvantaged students in Lindsay is a top priority.

“Lifting people up through education is part of Labor’s DNA. We have a comprehensive plan to ensure that no matter your background you get a real shot through a quality education,” she said.

“The programs to be run by the Kingswood Campus are a big part of helping our local students get the kind of education they deserve.”

Shadow Assistant Minister for Universities, Louise Pratt said the announcement is on top of Labor’s plan to abolish Scott Morrison’s “unfair cap” on university places.

Labor promises fuel pipeline to keep trucks off local roads

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abor has promised $71 million to build a fuel pipeline to the new Western Sydney Airport to avoid the need for trucks to cart dozens of loads of aviation fuel through Sydney suburbs each day.

The investment would secure reliable fuel supplies for the airport without adding to traffic congestion on Sydney’s already clogged roads.

The NSW Government is currently undertaking work to identify route options for the pipeline.

Western Sydney Airport will open in 2026 and be a catalyst for massive job growth in aviation and related industries.

Shadow Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Anthony Albanese, said it was important that a sensible way to transport fuel to the airport was found.

“Infrastructure Australia has calculated that without a pipeline, the airport would require up to 65 B-double tankers to deliver fuel each day when it reaches full capacity,” he said.

“Furthermore, Deloitte modelling found the cost of using these tankers, including the damage to local roads, would be $140 million over a 25-year period, double the cost of building the

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Isaac Mukoko at Western Sydney University. Photo: Melinda Jane

fuel pipeline which the same report identified as the most cost effective way of meeting the airport’s fuel needs.”

Mr Albanese said it was crucial that all factors were considered to ensure Western Sydney Airport is a success in the long-term.

“While the new airport will be an economic game-changer for western Sydney, the last thing residents need is dozens of trucks passing through their suburbs to deliver fuel,” he said.

“A Shorten Labor Government would work with the New South Wales Government to finalise plans for a pipeline and deliver the $71 million construction cost via an equity injection into the Western Sydney Airport Corporation.”

While there is bipartisan support for the airport, the Coalition has yet to commit to a pipeline.

“Labor stands ready to deliver the Western Sydney Airport, but to do so in a way that minimises the impact on the region’s residents while maximising its economic benefits,” Mr Albanese said.

“This election is a choice between Labor’s plans to build the infrastructure our communities need, or bigger tax loopholes for the top end of town under the Liberals.”

EVERY CANDIDATE, IN THEIR OWN WORDS: Don’t miss next week’s edition of the Weekender, where every Lindsay candidate at the Federal Election will provide their final pitch to locals on why they deserve your vote.

Coalition commits $1 million to upgrade of Chapman Gardens in Kingswood NICOLA BARTON

ore sporting commitments for Lindsay have been announced with the Coalition promising to invest $1 million into the Chapman Gardens Sports Precinct in Kingswood.

The funding, which will be provided to Penrith City Council, will see the installation of an irrigation system to the cricket and rugby league field as well as the construction of a much-needed new amenities building and upgrades to the existing building.

Western Sydney Senator, Marise Payne, said the overhaul of the Chapman Gardens Sports Precinct would ensure the precinct is enjoyed for generations to come.

“Generations of local sports players have called Chapman Gardens home, it’s as much loved as it is well used,” she said.

“This major funding boost will provide the playing fields and amenities with a much-needed facelift to ensure that it’s fit for purpose well into the future.”

Liberal Candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, who met representatives of the McKillop Baseball Club and the Penrith Waratahs JRLFC to discuss her vision for the precinct, said the funding was a win for grassroots sport.

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Melissa McIntosh, Marise Payne and Ross Fowler with local sporting representatives

“Chapman Gardens is a part of the DNA of Kingswood and local sporting teams have been passionate and vocal about the need to invest in these fields,” Ms McIntosh said.

“This funding package will make a big difference – it will improve playing conditions and create safer, modern facilities for our community to enjoy.

“Many hands make light work so I want to thank all the keen locals, especially Josh Gately and Mitch Sanderson, who have worked with me to get this off the ground.”

As part of the upgrades, Penrith City Council will contribute $630,000 towards the construction of the new amenities block at the Chapman Gardens baseball facility.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler welcomed the commitment and said it would be a huge boost to the local area.

“Penrith City Council had planned for the upgrade of this facility and the Federal Government’s support will bring this facility online earlier than otherwise planned which will be of great benefit to the whole community,” he said.

Sporting infrastructure has been a major focus for both major parties during the election campaign, with several commitments already made to local facilities.

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Overhaul for sports centre

Foundation’s election win Coalition and Labor announce funding for new digital hub to support families NICOLA BARTON

very year kids are getting more and more tech savvy. This is no different for those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with many relying on apps and devices as platforms to communicate.

That’s why the Coalition this week announced a commitment of $100,000 to the Luke Priddis Foundation (LPF) for a new digital hub, provided they retain government.

The hub, which would feature interactive whiteboards, computers and large screens, will be available not only for the families that utilise their services, but will be open to similar organisations in the community.

Luke Priddis Foundation General Manager, John Thain, said it was a great way to bring the Foundation up-to-date and support similar community groups.

“The great thing about it in addition to the shared value partnership with the Federal Government is that we can open it up as a community digital hub, so that the whole community has the opportunity to use this,” he said.

“Organisations that are NGOs or charities like the LPF that don’t have the facility or find it difficult with the cost of renting

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Luke Priddis, Marise Payne and John Thain at the Luke Priddis Foundation this week premises will have access to the digital hub.”

Last month Liberal Candidate for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh met with Mr Thain to discuss his plans. Since then she, alongside Senator for Western Sydney Marise Payne, have been working to secure the funding.

Ms Payne noted how those living with

ASD have impeccable attention to detail and can excel in IT jobs.

“If there is an early digital engagement with young people then their capacity to move into activities like this is developed and enhanced,” she said.

The Weekender contacted Labor Candidate for Lindsay Diane Beamer for her response to the commitment.

She returned with news that a Shorten Labor Government would double the funding, committing $200,000 to the LPF, covering the complete cost.

“The LPF does incredible work in our community, and I am proud to announce a Federal Labor Government will commit the total funds needed for a digital hub of $200,000,” she said.

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

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Penrith City Council is publicly exhibiting a Planning Proposal to amend Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) to reclassify four Council-owned sites from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Operationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Land.

The land subject to this Planning Proposal includes: â&#x20AC;˘ Site 1: 12A Champness Crescent, St Marys (Lot 41 DP 35970) â&#x20AC;˘ Site 2: 32A Champness Crescent, St Marys (Lot 51 DP 35970) â&#x20AC;˘ Site 3: 110A Dunheved Circuit, St Marys (Lot 211 DP 31909) â&#x20AC;˘ Site 4: Part of Soper Place Car Park, 5â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7 Lawson Street, Penrith (Lots 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3 DP 1159119) 5HFODVVLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ RI 6LWHV DQG ZLOO HQDEOH &RXQFLO to consider the future use of the land consistent with the existing zoning. This may include development, disposal, or consolidation with the adjoining land.

Site 4 forms part of the Soper Place Car Park and UHTXLUHV UHFODVVLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ IRU FRQVLVWHQF\ ZLWK WKH H[LVWLQJ FDU SDUN ORWV ZKLFK DUH DOUHDG\ FODVVLĂ&#x20AC;HG DV 2SHUDWLRQDO 7KH UHFODVVLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ SURFHVV ZLOO QRW result in any loss of parking.

The NSW Department of Planning and Environment has not issued an authorisation for Council to exercise delegation to make this plan.

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED

The Planning Proposal is the key document in the process for amending local environmental plans. It explains the intended effect of the proposed changes DQG VHWV RXW WKH MXVWLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ IRU WKH UHFRPPHQGHG amendment to Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010.

Pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council. Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free of charge during Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

The Planning Proposal is on public exhibition until 27 May 2019, online at yoursaypenrith.com.au and at Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Civic Centre, Penrith Library, 6W 0DU\V %XVLQHVV 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH DQG 6W 0DU\V /LEUDU\ Fact sheets and guidance on how to make a submission are also available.

You are invited to review and comment on the proposed changes to the planning controls by making a written submission by 27 May 2019. &RXQFLO RIĂ&#x20AC;FHUV ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH WR DQVZHU TXHVWLRQV on the Planning Proposal during business hours at the Civic Centre, Monday to Friday. Alternatively, please contact Joel Carson on 4732 8196 or at joel.carson@penrith.city

Draft Operational Plan 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20 and Proposed Fees and Charges 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20 Do you want to knowâ&#x20AC;Ś

The Planning Proposal is on public exhibition until Friday, 17 May 2019.

â&#x20AC;˘ how Council plans to spend $264.6 million in 12 months?

The Planning Proposal can be viewed at the following locations:

â&#x20AC;˘ about the work Council is planning in your area in 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20?

â&#x20AC;˘ Online: yoursaypenrith.com.au

â&#x20AC;˘ what you could be charged to hire a hall or submit a Development Application in 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20?

â&#x20AC;˘ Penrith Civic Centre 601 High Street, Penrith (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday 8.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4pm) â&#x20AC;˘ &RXQFLO¡V 6W 0DU\V 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH 207â&#x20AC;&#x201C;209 Queen Street (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday 8.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4pm) â&#x20AC;˘ Penrith Library 601 High Street (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;8pm; Saturday 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm; Sunday 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm) â&#x20AC;˘ 6W 0DU\V /LEUDU\ 207â&#x20AC;&#x201C;209 Queen Street (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Thursday 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;8pm; Friday 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5.30pm; Saturday 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm; Sunday 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm) You are invited to comment by making a written submission to Council by 4pm on Friday, 17 May 2019: â&#x20AC;˘ Email: city.planning@penrith.city â&#x20AC;˘ Post: The General Manager (Attention: Breannan Dent), Penrith City Council, PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 â&#x20AC;˘ In person: At the Penrith Civic Centre If you have any questions, please contact Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Planner, Breannan Dent on 4732 8196 or email city.planning@penrith.city

Annual Update Amendment Planning Proposal Penrith City Council wants to hear your views on a Planning Proposal which seeks to amend Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 to resolve several policy changes, contemporise certain elements and

The key documents guiding Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily activities, budget, and fees and charges over the next 12 months are on exhibition until Monday 3 June 2019: â&#x20AC;˘ Delivery Program 2017â&#x20AC;&#x201C;21 and Operational Plan 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20; and â&#x20AC;˘ Fees and Charges 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20.

These documents link the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long term goals with Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans, policies, services and resources. They are important because they show what we are doing to make Penrith a better place to live, work and visit.

By looking at the documents and telling us whether you think we have missed anything or got something wrong, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help shape your City. You can look at the documents online at yoursaypenrith.com.au or view them in person at the Penrith Civic Centre, 6W 0DU\V %XVLQHVV 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH RU DQ\ 3HQULWK &LW\ OLEUDU\ branch.

You can tell us what you think about Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans for 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20 by: â&#x20AC;˘ Online survey: yoursaypenrith.com.au â&#x20AC;˘ Email: corporate.planning@penrith.city â&#x20AC;˘ Post: General Manager Penrith Council, PO Box 60, Penrith 2751 Attention: Corporate Planning To make sure Council gets the chance to consider \RXU FRPPHQWV EHIRUH Ă&#x20AC;QDOLVLQJ WKH SODQV SOHDVH have your say before Monday, 3 June 2019.

For more information, visit yoursaypenrith.com.au

Approved Development Application â&#x20AC;˘ R20 Pty Limited Penrith Robert Pty Limited Miaz Group Pty Limited

DA18/0956

/RW '3 1R 5REHUW 6WUHHW 3HQULWK Demolition of existing structures, tree removal and FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI D VWRUH\ UHVLGHQWLDO Ă DW EXLOGLQJ containing 20 apartments, basement car parking and strata subdivision

INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the development application is Penrith City Council. â&#x20AC;˘ Jayco Sydney

DA19/0261

/RW '3 /RW '3 /RW '3 1R *ORVVRS 6WUHHW 1RUWK 6W 0DU\V Additions to existing showroom to create a new warehouse/showroom The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the Department of Planning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Water Management Act 2000 Sections 89, 90 & 91.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 0D\ WR 19 June 2019.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH submission. The submission is to include Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reference number DA19/0261.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Surreti Bajwa on 4732 7934 9LHZLQJ RI 'HYHORSPHQW $SSOLFDWLRQV The above development application/s may be viewed on Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ '$7UDFNHU Alternatively, the applications can be viewed during Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s normal business hours at the &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

'LVFORVXUH RI 3ROLWLFDO 'RQDWLRQV RU *LIWV Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrith.city

WW37459

Planning Proposal to Reclassify Four Sites in St Marys and Penrith

undertake â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;housekeepingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; changes which are minor in nature. These matters have been consolidated as a single set of proposed changes, known as an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Annual Update Amendmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 10, 2019

PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS

9

I

t’s one of the most talked about dramas in recent years and now ‘The Favourite’ has landed on DVD and Blu-Ray. In early 18th century England, a frail Queen Anne occupies the throne and her close friend, Lady Sarah, governs the country in her stead. When a new servant, Abigail, arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah.

The film is the winner of the 2019 Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role (Olivia Colman).

Starring Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz, ‘The Favourite’ grossed more than $34 million in the United States and more than $95 million worldwide, making it a smash hit.

‘The Favourite’ is out now on DVD and Blu-Ray. The Weekender has five copies of ‘The Favourite’ to give away. For your chance to win one, email competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Favourite’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, May 17. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or from Weekender reception.

prize cupboard

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

The attempted egging of Prime Minister Scott Morrison this week was a disgrace.

Regardless of your political views, we should all cherish that we live in a country where the Prime Minister can freely chat with locals at a community event.

my Penrith

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: 0168, 0011, 0611.

Dose of Dorin

Alesha Martin Jamisontown

10

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Valentino’s Woodfire Pizzeria FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Coffee Club FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Peachy FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Museum of Fire WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The Great River Walk – such a great little oasis.

WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? That’s a tricky question, there is many secrets!

Connect with us online... facebook.com/westernweekender

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westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Support for at-risk youth Labor’s $10 million plan to house students in danger of going off the tracks NICOLA BARTON

abor has promised to deliver Youth Foyer student accommodation for young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, if elected.

The $10 million commitment would rely on a partnership with the State Government to deliver the complex, envisioned to be located at the Kingswood TAFE campus.

The accommodation would be home to up to 40 students between 16 and 24-years-old, placing them close to public transport, shops, employment and community services.

Labor Candidate for Lindsay, Diane Beamer, said the Foyer will provide up to two years’ accommodation and support for at risk young people so they have the support they need to properly engage in housing, education and employment.

“The Foyer aims to stop young people’s long-term involvement with income support, social housing, support services and corrections,” she said.

“This election is a choice between Labor’s plan for better support for young people, or bigger tax loopholes for the top end of town under the Liberals.”

There are currently 15 Foyers across the

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country, with research supporting the benefits it can have for vulnerable teens.

The proposed Kingswood complex will be staffed 24/7 and will include postplacement support for students for six months after students leave.

Ms Beamer said the Foyer can help dramatically in ensuring students complete their studies.

“Young people in western Sydney have lower rates of school completion (66.7 per cent) and Bachelor Degree attainment (10.2 per cent) compared with national averages, with youth unemployment ranging from 16 to 24 per cent,” she said.

“Research demonstrates that the Foyers have resulted in significant improvements in education, employment and housing outcomes for students that are sustained 12 months after leaving.”

To be eligible, students must participate and attain accreditation in six key areas including education, employment, social connections, health and wellbeing, civic participation as well as housing and living skills.

Local service providers Wentworth Community Housing and Platform Youth Services are prepared to manage and provide the intensive wraparound services, supported by the Brotherhood of St Laurence.

Stephen McIntyre from Wentworth Community Housing, Stephanie Oatley from Platform Youth Services, Lindsay Labor Candidate Diane Beamer and Doug Cameron

Retire where you feel at home Brand new villas from $334,905* Located just 3km from Penrith, close to shops and public transport, Caddens Village offers a wonderful retirement lifestyle in a friendly community, provided by a caring, Christian, not-for-profit organisation. Brand new 1, 2 and 3 bedroom villas now available – few remaining.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

MELISSA

MCINTOSH LIBERAL FOR LINDSAY BUILDING OUR ECONOMY. SECURING YOUR FUTURE.

I’m working with Scott Morrison to keep our economy strong and deliver my Plan for Lindsay.

We will build our economy by:

So locally we can:

Delivering record spending on transport and infrastructure

Ease congestion and upgrade local roads

Creating 1.25 million more jobs

Deliver tax relief for local families and hard-working small businesses

Delivering tax relief so you keep more of what you earn Continuing record funding for schools, hospitals and life-saving medicines

Continue record funding for 44 local schools Continue record funding for local hospitals

MELISSA McINTOSH LIBERAL FOR LINDSAY Authorised by Chris Stone, Liberal Party of Australia, NSW Division, Level 12, 100 William Street, East Sydney NSW 2011.

0403 671 950

Melissa.McIntosh@nswliberal.org.au PO Box 860, Penrith NSW 2751 MelissaMcIntoshforLindsay

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I need your support so we can ensure our strong economy delivers locally.

13

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Mayor wants power back “Out of control”: Council to meet with State Government over planning issues ALENA HIGGINS

enrith Council will request an urgent meeting with the new State Planning Minister to discuss the rampant development of boarding houses in the area and Council’s inability to determine Development Applications (DAs).

Councillor John Thain raised the urgent motion during last Monday night’s Council meeting, requesting Mayor Ross Fowler and Deputy Mayor Greg Davies seek a sit-down with the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes to voice their concerns.

Cr Thain said a review of the Affordable Rental Housing SEPP was critical to prevent further “clustering” of boarding houses in unwanted hot spots such as Kingswood.

“We need some sort of control, it’s just out of control,” he said.

“What is occurring in our city at the moment... isn’t what the [SEPP] was designed for.”

Cr Fowler agreed, describing the spate of boarding houses popping up across the city as “opportunistic” with little thought for the amenity of the affected suburbs.

He was also critical of the imposition in March 2018 of Independent Hearing

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Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler outside Penrith City Council’s headquarters. Photo: Melinda Jane and Assessment Panels (IHAPs), which stripped Councillors of their ability to determine DAs. Cr Fowler acknowledged the community was feeling “very disenfranchised” at Councillors’ inability to step in, and will strongly urge Mr Stokes scrap IHAPs and hand back planning powers to Councils.

Archaeology Open Day Sunday, 19 May 2019

EMILY FESZCZUK

10am to 3pm In the Old Council Chambers Building on Station Street, Penrith Between Henry Street and Penrith Station (Opposite Westfield’s Station Street entrance)

• Artefacts from historic local buildings • An que bo les, china, photographs and local maps • Personal effects from Penrith’s earliest European se lers • Bricks from the early 1800s • Local experts to answer your ques ons • Raffle with fantas c prizes

Entry is FREE and all are welcome 14

cils and empowering them to plan for the future,” he said.

“The point of IHAPs is to reinforce the role of Councillors as the strategic planners on behalf of their community and to avoid conflicts of interest that have historically undermined confidence in councils and been a big corruption risk.”

Penrith residents urged to take up free heart checks

Nepean District

Nepean District Historical Archaeology Group nepeanarchaeology@gmail.com

Cr Thain said he was optimistic the meeting with Mr Stokes would go well, noting the MP had a PhD in planning and had previously taken positive steps when he was Planning Minister from 2015-2017.

Mr Stokes told the Weekender he wanted to work with Councils moving forward.

“I’m committed to working with coun-

WW37466

ocal residents are being urged to get their hearts checked with fears many underestimate the veracity of heart disease.

New figures show that out of every 100,000 deaths in the Penrith Local Government Area, 82.5 of them are as a result of heart disease.

That figure is above State averages and is why Heart Foundation NSW CEO Kerry Doyle is urging local residents to see their doctor.

“Australians aged 45 years and over, and Indigenous Australians from 30 years, can now see their GP for a Medicare-funded Heart Health Check to learn their risk of heart attack and stroke in the next five years,” she said.

After years of campaigning, the Heart Foundation spearheaded the introduction of the Heart Health Check that is now covered by Medicare.

As part of a Heart Health Check your doctor will look at risk factors and may prescribe medication or recommend lifestyle changes.

Nationally, it is estimated Australia’s new Heart Health Check could prevent 76,500 heart attacks, strokes and deaths from heart disease over the next five years, avoiding 42 heart events daily.

“Heart disease is the single biggest killer in NSW, yet we know that many heart attacks and strokes can be

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Heart Foundation CEO Kerry Doyle prevented by managing key risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol and other lifestyle choices,” Ms Doyle said.

“Heart disease is not always obvious – having a heart attack could be your first sign. Don’t wait for chest pain, it could be too late. Get the vital tests you need by visiting your doctor for a Heart Health Check.”

With 33 per cent of Penrith LGA residents considered obese and 20 per cent current smokers, the area is considered high risk for heart disease. 25 per cent of residents have high blood pressure.

For more information, visit heartfoundation.org.au or call the Heart Foundation Helpline on 13 11 12.

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DELIVERING FOR OUR COMMUNITY DIANE KNOWS PENRITH, BECAUSE aries of Divisions PENRITH SHE’S FROM Attended Nepean aries of High Areas (2015) School as a child

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Piloted traffic calming measures for school zones that prevents accidents and has been saving lives © Commonwealth of Australia (2016) for TH decades.

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Stopped a toxic waste tip in Londonderry.

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Introduced the first M4 Cashback in 1996 – saving Penrith residents thousands of dollars a year. Labor then abolished the Toll in February 2010. The Liberal State Government have now reintroduced a 43-year toll, costing a regular commuter more than $2000 a year.

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Moved public servant jobs out of central Sydney to Penrith. This still provides hundreds of good public sector jobs to the West.

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Funded, built and opened Claremont Meadows Orchard Orc rchard rdPrimary Hi Hills Hill H llss School, Surveyors Creek Primary School and Glenmore Park High School.

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Labor will invest $63.5 million to upgrade Dunheved Road between Richmond Road and Werrington Road in Penrith.

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PENRITH Labor will invest $125 million on a world-class Comprehensive Cancer Treatment Centre at Nepean Hospital.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Diane Beamer

Badgerys

Rebuilt St Marys Police Station.

Opened Ripples Leisure Centre in St Marys.

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As your State Member, I delivered funding to transform Nepean Hospital. We opened an oncology unit, a world-class neonatal intensive care unit and an emergency care unit for psychiatric patients. We also expanded the General Practitioner clinic on site and oversaw it becoming a teaching hospital. It makes me very proud.”

Someone We Can Count On Authorised by K. Murnain, Australian Labor Party (N.S.W. Branch), Level 9, 377 Sussex St, Sydney, NSW 2000.

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Still no trace of missing medals EMILY FESZCZUK

NZAC Day is a time for former service men and women to wear their medals with pride and to be honoured.

Malcolm Smith has been waiting two years to wear his medals, but they remain missing after being sent to an empty house in St Marys – soon after he’d moved out.

“I served 15 years in the Australian Regular Army and two-and-a-half years in the Army Reserves, so over 17 years in total which meant I was eligible for the Defence Force Service Medal for length of time served and the Australian Defence Medal,” Mr Smith told the Weekender.

“I didn’t get them so I was given a tracking number which said it was delivered but because there was no signature required, they have been delivered to an empty residence and have gone into the void.”

Mr Smith contacted the police and the Department of Defence, who said he would have to complete a statutory declaration stating he never received them and would be reissued with a copy. He believes this could have all been avoided if registered postage with a signature required was used.

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“It’s amazing how all this process started because there was no signature for a bunch of medals, if there had been no one to sign and deliver it would have gone back to the post office then sent back until I claimed them and sent to my new address,” Mr Smith said.

“If they are sent with registered mail then if anyone is out, they will be sent to a post office and held, not left on a doorstep so someone can pick them up and walk away.”

Mr Smith hopes that his case will spur a change to ensure no other veterans will go through the same ordeal.

“Mine are gone and I’m disappointed but I accept that, however if I can change the process, I will be happy,” Mr Smith said.

“We celebrate as a country all our personnel who have served, whether present or past, and no one deserves to get their awards treated poorly.’’

A spokesperson from the Department of Defence said tracking is managed by Australia Post.

“Medals for former serving members are sent to the address provided at the time of application. Medals are sent via Australia Post using Standard Parcel Post, which includes tracking of the package,’’ the spokesperson said.

Malcolm Smith’s medals remain missing. Photo: Melinda Jane “The Defence Honours and Awards Replacement Medals Policy allows for the replacement of medals in certain circumstances.

“In some cases, the medals are replaced as if they were the original issue. Where this cannot occur, the medal is engraved with a ‘D’ for Duplicate.”

New in blue: Recruits are ready to serve community

Heel Pain Experts

The nine new police officers who have joined Nepean Police Area Command NICOLA BARTON

T

Suffering morning heel pain or pain after activity?

There are over 20 causes of heel pain, so an accurate diagnosis is vital in your recovery. We are here to help you.

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16

P: 4732 5188 | onepointhealth.com.au | 510 - 536 High St, Penrith

he Nepean Police Area Command has grown stronger by nine as new probationary constables step into their crime fighting careers.

The NSW Police Force welcomed 261 probationary constables to its ranks at the Police Academy in Goulburn on Friday, May 3.

‘Class 337’ includes 176 men and 85 women who have been stationed across the state.

A 28-year-old recruit from Nepean Police Area Command said he has always dreamed of being in the force and is honoured to put on the blue uniform.

“I’ve always wanted to be a police officer since I was a kid, you see them on TV or out on the street, someone to look up to, so I thought it would be great to

be in that role model position. It’s about helping the community, I’m looking forward to getting to know the people that live here,” he said.

A 26-year-old fellow graduate said she was excited for the journey ahead and can’t wait to be out on the beat in Penrith.

“I wanted to get into a job where I can help people, something that’s new every day and challenging for myself and to keep people safe in the community,” she said.

“It’s very rewarding after the eight months spent at the academy, to be able to come out and put the uniform on, I feel very proud.”

The team will now complete 12 months on-the-job training and study an Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

THORNTON PARK

Live life to the full thorntonpark.com.au

Retirement living offers so many benefits, particularly access to a great range of onsite features and conveniences that you wouldn’t find in a conventional apartment complex or house.

to offer. Thornton Park is a warm and welcoming community and our activities, courses and events encourage social interaction.

How much or little you’re involved is up to you.

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

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Man urges Super Scheme changes after fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual pension goes overseas NICOLA BARTON

rofessor Wayne Erskine lived in Penrith for many years, enjoying life as a respected researcher of the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment.

But after separating from his wife, he turned to an Asian dating website, got married and wound up losing hundreds of thousands of dollars, before his passing in 2017.

Now his son, Aaron Erskine, is fighting the State Government to rectify an outdated NSW State Super Scheme (SSS) that sees his late fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life pension paid to his deported online bride. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He suffered a mental decline and was easily sucked in, he ended up paying $800 a day for this website,â&#x20AC;? he said.

P

Professor Wayne Erskine

â&#x20AC;&#x153;He had met this person online and once in real life when travelling to China, she then came to Australia, they got married, were in a relationship for approximately one year and then decided to separate.â&#x20AC;?

After the pair married, his new wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Visa application was denied. They submitted an application to a tribunal but once the relationship turned belly up, it was cancelled as Professor Erskine told the Immigration Department they were no longer together.

All Australian couples must wait approximately one year until they can get a divorce, tragically Professor Erskine passed away just one day shy of the eligibility date.

Due to the NSW Government Employee Super Scheme that Professor Erskine was part of, his wife now gets paid a life pension of $75,000 per year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This scheme (SSS) has no safeguards, if the member was married, then the spouse will receive a reversionary pension, guaranteed for life. No exceptions. No discretion. No factors can be considered and no legal process can change this,â&#x20AC;? Mr Erskine said.

Mr Erskine has taken his campaign to the road, with a specially marked trailer that become very visible during the recent State Election campaign.

A NSW Industrial Relations spokesperson said the pension must be paid in accordance with the governing legislation, regardless of the circumstances. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mr Erskine has been advised that if he can provide evidence of the annulment or dissolution of the marriage to the SAS Trustee Corporation (STC), then they may

be able to consider this evidence,â&#x20AC;? the spokesperson said.

Mr Erskine said he is disgusted that the Government continues to allow the woman to â&#x20AC;&#x153;scam moneyâ&#x20AC;? from taxpayers when he has the documents to prove they werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t together at his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time of death.

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Shot that could save lives Free immunisation for most vulnerable residents has wide-ranging benefits NICOLA BARTON

ome of Penrith’s most vulnerable residents received immunisations last week, to help them combat the cold as winter creeps closer.

For rough sleepers, having poor health and a low immune system, coupled with overcrowded hostels, leaves them at severe risk of influenza.

Nurses from Nepean Hospital set up stations at Mama Lana’s Community Foundation last week, with both patrons and volunteers offering up their arm.

Mama Lana’s Founder, Lana Borg, said the immunisations will make a huge difference for those sleeping rough.

“Being on the streets, they have lower immunity so most of them do get pretty sick and once they do they don’t come to the services and go downhill very quickly,” she said.

“Last year was terrible, a lot of volunteers got sick too, so we offered the immunisations to them as well to tackle it from both sides.”

Influenza is a highly contagious infection that is very easily spread from person to person. Symptoms include fevers, runny nose, muscle aches and fatigue.

For the average person this means a few

S

Mama Lana’s patrons received free flu shots last week days off work wrapped up in a warm blanket. But, for the homeless, it can be fatal, NSW Director of Public Health Bradley Forssman said.

“Influenza disease is quite serious, it can last for two to three weeks, keep you in bed, make you feel really sick and keep you off work or school but people who are

at high risk or have other conditions can die from it,” he said.

“These groups generally don’t engage with health services, they don’t have a regular GP or their lives are too chaotic.

“For this winter, now none of these people will get influenza but I’m hoping this will also expose them to a health

service that is welcoming and helpful to get more trust and hopefully they will be more likely to seek treatment in the future.”

This is the first year the Department of Health has offered the service at Mama Lana’s. Due to its success, the service is expected to continue for years to come.

Mayor’s News The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Magnetic Places program

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In my role as Mayor I am often talking about what the future holds for Penrith and about the many city-shaping projects we have happening across the LGA. And while all of those big picture things are important and exciting, sometimes it’s nice to take the time to talk about our grassroots community programs, like Magnetic Places.

Magnetic Places is a placemaking initiative of Council’s Neighbourhood Renewal Program and since 2007 has funded 81 successful projects that celebrate collaboration, creativity and culture. Neighbourhood Renewal supports positive change by working with people where they live to enhance the wellbeing of their neighbourhood as a healthy, safe and vibrant place.

Placemaking is the process of residents, community organisations and artists collaborating to create strong public spaces that celebrate residents’ creativity and connection to a place.

Through the Magnetic Places program public spaces are transformed into creative, meaningful places that make an important contribution to the health and wellbeing of people, and the neighbourhoods they live in.

Grants for 2019 are now open and

close on Monday, July 1. You can apply for grants up to $10,000 to deliver a creative project that transforms an existing public space into a creative place; involves active collaboration between artists and residents; provides free-of-charge events and activities, and takes place in one or more of 12 neighbourhoods Council has identified.

People who have participated in previous Magnetic Places have talked about how the project allowed them to make new friends within their community, gain more confidence, and develop valuable skills.

So if you have a great idea on how to transform, boost or make a public space in your neighbourhood special, make an application to Magnetic Places.

If you want more information or advice, I encourage you to get in touch with Council’s Cultural Engagement Officer, Donita Hulme, on 4732 7809 or at magneticplaces@penrith.city.

More information is also available at penrith.city/magneticplaces.

See you next week.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

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Prison term extended after drug plan goes wrong

A man who intimidated a fellow inmate who was unable to produce tobacco he’d secreted up his bottom has extended his time in custody by six months.

Penrith District Court heard Jamie Lee Patterson was among a group of four prisoners, including the victim, who hatched a cunning plan to smuggle the contraband into Parklea Jail on May 21 last year.

Using his work position to facilitate the ploy, the victim went to a shed on the jail’s ground where the tobacco had been left and inserted the parcel into his rectum.

But the daring plan was thwarted when nature failed to take its course.

According to agreed facts, the victim tried unsuccessfully to remove the parcel from his body, all the while, his partners in crime growing increasingly frustrated and suspicious that he had already expelled it and was not being honest with them.

Sometime later, the victim was called out of his cell and into the common area where he was interrogated hostilely by the men while most of the prisoners in the wing watched on.

During the ‘Kangaroo Court’, the coaccused threatened to bash the victim and threw a chair at him, before asking the crowd what punishment he should get.

Scared for his life, and with “no likelihood” of protection from prison staff, he began to cry, the court heard.

Judge Stephen Hanley accepted Patterson did not make any explicit threats to the victim and tried to act in a more “congenial” manner than his co-accused, getting the victim a cigarette afterwards.

But he pushed back when Patterson’s lawyer submitted the “real fear” was perpetrated by his co-accused, pointing out Patterson’s mere presence reinforced the threats.

“It’s made in company, he’s present, he’s condoning it,” Judge Hanley said,

exasperated after Patterson’s lawyer continued to downplay his role.

Judge Hanley noted the victim was not only humiliated but was telling the truth all along, with the parcel having to be surgically removed at Blacktown Hospital.

The court heard Patterson spent three months in solitary confinement as a result.

Judge Hanley took this on board but refused to deal with it by way of a threeyear good behaviour bond as submitted by his lawyer.

His Honour, who interestingly sentenced Patterson to his original jail sentence for rape, conceded they were unrelated offences but “shows he just doesn’t learn”.

“He gets himself involved in this stupid behaviour in jail,” he condemned.

Judge Hanley said he originally found Patterson had good prospects of rehabilitation given his relatively young age, but said “this type of offending undermines that assessment”.

He said a message must be sent to inmates that if they “muck up” they will extend their jail sentences.

Patterson was handed a nine-month fixed term, back dated by three months.

He is eligible for release on September 8, 2020.

Accused car park attackers back in court

The long court process continues to drag on for the victims of the Penrith car park brawl.

The five accused were back in Penrith Local Court last Friday where their matters were adjourned for another eight weeks to allow for charge certification.

The court heard Mitchell Milgate, 19, Blake Milgate and Dean Hooper, both 22, are still awaiting the outcome of their Legal Aid application. Since the last court date, Wendell Milgate, 20, has retained a private solicitor, while Byron Donovan, 20, continues to be represented by the Aboriginal Legal Service.

The men, all of Glenmore Park and Donovan of St Clair, allegedly set upon Shannan Rushworth and Tyson Gampe in the early hours of February 3 in a fast food restaurant car park on Mulgoa Road.

Rushworth was left fighting for life after being knocked unconscious before his head was allegedly stomped on.

The accused, who are now all at liberty on bail, face varying charges, with Wendell and Donovan facing the most serious, including one count each of ‘cause grievous bodily harm with intent’, which carries a maximum 25 years in jail.

The group is due to reappear at Penrith Local Court for charge certification mention on June 28.

Drug dealer avoids jail as judge hands him second chance

A once promising rugby league player busted dealing drugs has narrowly escaped full-time jail.

Graham Joseph Wickham fronted Penrith District Court last Friday charged with ongoing prohibited drug supply.

The court heard the Bligh Park resident was caught dealing small amounts of methamphetamines five times during May 2017, each time to an undercover cop.

Wickham, who grew up in North Richmond, was signed to Penrith Panthers in his younger years, but a major injury ended his career.

The court heard the offender began taking ‘ice’ after his bricklaying business went belly up in 2016.

He was forced to sell his home to pay off his debts and moved in with some old football friends at a self described “crack house” where he was introduced to the drug.

His lawyer said the father-of-four had been through the “wringer” the last few years and had abstained from drugs since his arrest.

He pointed out he had not re-offended in the intervening period, that he was dealing to help out a mate and all the

transactions were instigated by the undercover operative.

The lawyer said there was no evidence of drug supply infrastructure, and at the time Wickham was a drug user, which was atypical of his usual behaviour.

Judge Stephen Hanley found the offender acted as a “go between” for cash or a small amount of drugs.

Wickham wiped away tears as Judge Hanley detailed his background.

The court heard the offender, who pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, was depressed and lonely and his emotional state left him open to manipulation. He was handed a 12-month Intensive Correction Order with a conditional that he participate in drug rehabilitation and abstain from illegal drugs.

Jail for man who robbed service stations in 2017

A man involved in a spate of armed hold-ups will spend at least the next three-and-a-half years behind bars after he was sentenced last week.

Benjamin David Herring was convicted of two counts of ‘robbery with a dangerous weapon’ and one count of ‘robbery with an offensive weapon’ for the early morning service station robberies in 2017.

Armed with a taser and machete, Herring and a co-offender would drive up to the entrance, throw a brick through the door and storm the shops, demanding cash and cigarettes from the terrified store attendants who were working alone.

The 7-Eleven at Regentville, Metro Service Station at St Marys, Caltex at South Windsor and the 7-Eleven at Emu Plains were all targeted.

It was later discovered bricks were missing from a wall at a Milton Street, Colyton address that were used in the robberies.

Herring was sentenced at Penrith District Court last Friday to six years with a three-year, six month non-parole period.

He was also sentenced for an attempted robbery and stealing a car. He will be eligible for parole on June 2022.

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A 23-year-old Cambridge Park man has been charged after threatening a 24-yearold acquaintance in an effort to extort money from him.

Between Sunday, May 5 and Monday, May 6 the accused male allegedly visited the victim’s home address in Londonderry where he demanded he pay him an unknown sum of money.

When the victim refused, the accused threatened both the victim and his family in a violent manner. The victim was further intimidated when he received text messages from the accused, which depicted the homes of the victim’s family.

At around 1am on Monday, May 6 Police located the accused near the victim’s house, where he was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station.

The 23-year-old was charged with ‘using menace to demand money’ and ‘intimidation’.

He was bail refused to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 7.

Penrith: Police investigating attack on health clinic

Police are conducting an ongoing investigation after a women’s health clinic located on Reserve Street, Penrith was maliciously damaged by an unknown person.

Between 2pm on Saturday, May 4 and 9am on Monday, May 6 two of the clinic’s front windows were smashed in.

The motivations for the attack are unknown.

Kingswood: Drunk driver to face court later this month

A Kingswood man has had his licence suspended after he was allegedly caught driving whilst highly intoxicated.

On Saturday, May 4 at 11.40pm the 35-year-old was spotted driving erratically on Victoria Street, Kingswood.

After watching the car swerving and mounting a round-a-bout, police pulled

over the driver who was subjected to a roadside breath test.

He returned a positive reading of 0.175 and was taken back to Penrith Police Station.

Further breath analysis returned the same result.

He was charged with high range drink driving to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 28.

Fake notes re-surface, police warn local businesses

Police are urging businesses to check their money carefully after a fraudulent $50 note was detected at a store inside Penrith Westfield on Monday, May 6.

After a successful operation late last year, it has been a quiet few months but police have now reported another surge of counterfeit notes circulating in the Penrith area.

Investigators will now backtrack stepby-step to uncover the original source of the note.

The public is reminded to report any fake notes to the police.

Glenmore Park: Police search for men caught stealing

Investigations are continuing following an attempted break-in at Glenmore Park on Tuesday, April 30.

At 1.40am a group of men were attempting to steal property inside a garage on Highdale Terrace when they were disturbed by the occupants of the home.

The offenders fled the scene.

The three males have been described as having solid builds and were last seen wearing black hats, balaclavas, gloves and black hoodies.

They escaped via a Black Mercedes CLA200 which police later discovered had stolen number plates.

Police are now investigating to confirm whether the car itself was also stolen.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000.

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Working in Australia to the second Visa has a specific list of employment options which varies between the states and territories and is completely dependent on the applicant’s country of citizenship. This can obviously cause issues for overseas applicants if their qualifications do not correspond with the work types available in a particular area in Australia. It is incredibly important that the applicant is well-informed as to the specified employment options available, as otherwise they may be in breach of their Visa conditions.

From July 1 2019, applicants may be eligible for a third Visa, if they complete regional specified work for a period of at least six months on their second Visa.

These six months only start counting on or after July 1 2019 so there will not be any successful applications until at least January 1 2020. At the time of writing, the cost and other particulars involved with the third Visa option have not yet been released.

With a relatively quick turnaround time and cost of around $450.00 per application, the Work and Holiday Visa is a good option for those wanting to earn an income whilst living in Australia, and for those looking at studying also.

With the election and the EOFY quickly approaching, it is likely that we will see a range of changes made to current migration laws in Australia. Don’t hesitate to give us a call to discuss the options available to you.

There have been several significant changes introduced over the last few months relating to immigration law, including variations made to the Work and Holiday Visa which assists overseas visitors hoping to work abroad in Australia.

This Visa allows young adults aged between 18 and 30-years-old (or up to 35-years-old if you are Irish or Canadian) to stay in Australia for a period of up to 12 months, and is designed to allow the Visa holder to work to essentially pay for their holiday.

Unbeknownst to many, the Visa is separated into two subclasses, and the applicant’s country of origin will determine which subclass they are to apply for. Although on the face of things the two different Visa options appear identical (including the application cost and length of stay), the important difference is that each subclass contains a different list of what type of employment the applicant should undertake whilst in Australia if they wish to be eligible for a second Work and Holiday Visa.

Applicants are also restricted from working for more than six months with one employer. If they wish to apply for a second Visa, they will need to complete specified work in an approved industry for at least three months in a regional area, such as plant and animal cultivation, fishing and pearling, tree farming and felling, mining and construction.

In short, each subclass in relation

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Celebrating the inspiring Mums in our community Mother’s Day: We meet five incredible women whose positivity is extraordinary

Tamara Miles, Kelli Vernon, Angel Tezaris, Kayla Goode and Kathryn Lowe will all celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday. Photo: Melinda Jane

By the numbers: Working Mums (Figures thanks to the ABS)

By the numbers: Becoming a Mum (Figures thanks to the ABS)

• Mums with children under 12 work hard in all sorts of areas – 55 per cent are employees while 11 per cent manage their own businesses.

• Australian women are having children later, with the median age now 31.3-years-old compared with 27.7-years-old three decades ago.

• Around four per cent of Australian mums with children 12 and under have more than one job, not counting their unpaid work!

• Over the past 30 years, the fertility rate of women aged 35-39 has more than doubled and for women aged 40-44 it has tripled.

• The proportion of mums in paid employment changes with age. 57 per cent of young mums (under 30) with children aged 12 and under are not in the paid workforce but for mums aged 40 or older the proportion falls to just over one in four (25 per cent).

• There were 309,142 births in 2017, with a total fertility rate (the number of children per 1,000 women aged 15 to 49) of 1.74 - the lowest rate since 2001.

• The proportion of mums who are working and have young children increases with the mother’s level of education: 79 per cent of mothers with a bachelor degree or higher are employed compared with 53 per cent of mothers with qualifications below a certificate III.

24

• Just over half those bundles of joy (51.5 per cent) were boys – resulting in a sex ratio at birth of 106.2 male births per 100 female births – and there were 4,468 sets of twins.

• Over the 10 years from 2007-16, May was the sixth most common month for births in Australia.

• Over the same period, May 12 – the date for Mothers’ Day in 2019 - ranked 159 out of 366 days.

NICOLA BARTON

othing can quite compare to the unconditional love a mother has for her child.

With that comes great sacrifice, hard work and most of all patience.

Whether that means migrating to a different country to seek better opportunities, taking care of a sick child or simply having a home-cooked meal on the table each night, all mums are super in their own way.

Here at the Weekender, we want to celebrate all mums in the community ahead of Mother’s Day on Sunday.

After putting out a call on social media, we received hundreds of stories about incredible women living and working in the local area.

The following stories are just a small glimpse of the inspiring stories we received from women that make up the Penrith region, who, like any mother, do whatever they possibly can to support their children.

And whilst sometimes we may take them for granted, let’s as a community remember to show our appreciation this Sunday for all of our mothers and grandmothers out there. After all, a new pair of slippers, bunch of flowers or a free lunch never hurt anyone...

N

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Tamara Miles

Kelli Vernon

Angel Tezaris

Tamara Miles, 35, Orchard Hills Juggling the schedule of four young kids is a difficult task for any Mum. But for Tamara Miles, having to remain positive after being thrown one obstacle after another has been the toughest task of all.

Her twin 10-year-old boys, born at 27 weeks, spent 70 days in hospital but luckily have not had further complications.

Wanting to grow their family further, Ms Miles and her husband tried for another baby but unfortunately miscarried.

After trying again they had a normal pregnancy and a healthy baby but just before the age of three he became unwell, went downhill very quickly and was soon diagnosed with a tennis ball sized malignant tumour on his brain.

Since then the now six-year-old has undergone surgery, chemotherapy and had a shunt placed in his brain, continuing to battle challenges.

Being constantly in and out of hospital to seek treatment for their son, they were hoping baby number four would be healthy and although he arrived 10 weeks’ premature, he was born without complications.

However, a week after he was born, he tragically contracted a highly infectious bug in the hospital that travelled straight to his brain, causing bacterial meningitis, forming an abscess on his left frontal lobe which burst.

The one-year-old has since had 13 brain surgeries, two shunts in his brain and been diagnosed with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. It is more than any one-year-old should have to face.

While the road ahead is difficult, Ms Miles remains positive and upbeat, and knows there are families in even worse positions.

“I’ve seen families lose children and loved ones so even though the road is long and hard I am just so lucky and grateful for what I have, I just do what any Mum would do really,” Ms Miles said.

Ms Miles continues to juggle the day-to-day challenges of the health conditions that confront her children, but is hopeful for a happy and bright future.

Kelli Vernon, 48, Penrith 20 years ago Kelli’s father gave her a book by Christina Noble, a woman who saved thousands of children in Vietnam. Inspired by her amazing works, she visited Vietnam and the Christina Noble Foundation to see firsthand the work she was doing. When she returned home she answered the calling and has continued to foster children ever since.

Welcoming children from all walks of life, some drug addicted or with behavioural problems, Ms Vernon has provided a safe, loving home for some of the country’s most vulnerable.

“I just love the fact that I can help shape a child’s life where they might not have had that otherwise,” she said.

Ms Vernon paid credit to the amazing support from her biological children and friends in allowing her to overcome the challenges and continue to support these kids.

Angel Tezaris, 18, Cranebrook For Angel Tezaris, falling pregnant at the age of 17 was a daunting yet exciting experience. But she could never have predicted what would come next when her baby was diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) at just 18 weeks’ pregnant. Born with half a heart, he tragically passed four days after doctors performed an emergency Cesarian and surgery. Six weeks after losing her precious boy, she found out she was pregnant again.

“I was terrified because it happened so quickly but also because of everything we went through. I thought we’d have a healthy baby this time,” she said.

At 13 weeks’ pregnant, doctors delivered the devastating news that her unborn little boy will also be born with a CHD. She is now 25 weeks pregnant and hosting fundraisers for the Westmead Children’s Hospital to ensure children with CHD get the awareness they deserve.

Kathryn Lowe

Kayla Goode

Kathryn Lowe, 36, North Penrith Imagine having five boys, all under the age of 14, two with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD, one ninemonth-old with major health complications and on top of that being a full-time carer for both your mother and father, who both have cancer.

This is the reality for single parent Kathryn Lowe, a local super-mum who dedicates her entire life to taking care of her huge family. Her youngest, born with more than three birth defects, holes in the heart and narrowing in his aorta valve, now lives with a condition called Tracheomalacia and is constantly in and out of hospital.

“You do what you have to do, I can crumble in the corner or cry but it doesn’t change anything, I was given this life for a reason and I’m lucky to have so many great friends that keep me going,” she said.

Kayla Goode, 29, Werrington County Mother of two young girls, Kayla Goode has a healthy, loving family. That’s why she has made it her mission, as a full-time caseworker, to help restore families.

Running parenting programs and assessments, as well as assisting with court proceedings, Ms Goode helps parents in the community become better versions of themselves in order to have their children returned to them. On top of that, she studies a Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Welfare, studying at night while the kids are sleeping.

“I’d be lost without my own Mum and husband’s support, we all help out one another,” she said.

Ms Goode is encouraging other Mums with dreams of pursuing higher education to believe in themselves and give it a go.

“You do what you have to do, I can crumble in the corner or cry, but it doesn’t change anything. I was given this life for a reason and I’m lucky to have so many great friends that keep me going”

25

Green ballot paper – Number every box in the order of your choice

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

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Electoral Division of Division Name

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26-year-old quit her job as a teacher to follow her dreams of becoming a firefighter EMILY FESZCZUK

6-year-old Aimee Barnard was enjoying a successful career as a school teacher before she decided to take a massive leap of faith and become a firefighter.

The former PDHPE teacher is one of 16 new firefighters in the first class to graduate from the new Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Emergency Services Academy at Orchard Hills.

Ms Barnard said she had always considered a career as a firefighter but after working as a teacher, finally decided to pursue a change of job. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had a few friends that were already in the job and they would always talk about how much they loved being a firefighter. I was always interested in what they did so I thought that it would be a career I would really enjoy,â&#x20AC;? Ms Barnard said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The training experience was a very big learning curve, but I really enjoyed the variety of training experiences we were exposed to. Basically, every week had a new focus on a different capability of our organisation.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ms Barnard is now stationed at Cranebrook Fire Station and is enjoying the variety in her job.

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Aimee Barnard is now stationed at Cranebrook. Photo: Melinda Jane

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have enjoyed every minute at Cranebrook so far and every day you learn something new,â&#x20AC;? Ms Barnard said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our station was involved in a sprinkler demonstration, which was covered on the national news. It was a real success and great to see how the sprinkler system can potentially slow down the fire development and essentially save lives.â&#x20AC;?

Ms Barnard is now part of an important group of people who help the community every day. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think knowing that you can help someone is an extremely rewarding feeling and therefore one of the main reasons I was interested in joining FRNSW,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ms Barnard said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that the community have their own local fire station to call upon whenever they need.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Minister for Emergency Services David Elliot congratulated the recruits and welcomed them into the firefighting family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are a special group of men and women and the first of a new generation of firefighters to start their journey and hone their lifesaving skills at the FRNSW Emergency Services Academy,â&#x20AC;? he said.

FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said the graduates were a fitting first class for the new Academy.

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 10, 2019

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Isaah Yeo leaves the field in pain last weekend. Photo: NRL Photos

THEY’LL BE BACK YEO, KIK AU INJURIES NOT AS BAD AS FIRST THOUGHT

PANTHERS V TIGERS > P31 Troy Dodds previews the battle of the big cats at Suncorp Stadium

MOSES LEOTA > P33 Tough forward tries to explain Penrith’s awful start to the season

PANTHER FLASHBACK > P41 We look back on a day that rocked Penrith to its core

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30

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

v

THE FINAL WORD

FRIDAY, MAY 10 • 6PM | SUNCORP STADIUM | REFEREES: CHRIS SUTTON & CHRIS BUTLER

PANTHERS 1

Caleb Aekins

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 19

Josh Mansour Dean Whare Waqa Blake Dallin Watene-Zelezniak James Maloney Nathan Cleary James Tamou (c) Wayde Egan Reagan Campbell-Gillard Frank Winterstein James Fisher-Harris Hame Sele Sione Katoa Tyrell Fuimaono Moses Leota Tim Grant 18 Jarome Luai Kaide Ellis 20 Dylan Edwards

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 10, 2019

MATCH PREVIEW

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TIGERS

FOX LEAGUE

TRIPLE M Josh Mansour in action against the Tigers earlier this season. Photo: Melinda Jane

TROY

DODDS This weekend marks the NRL’s inaugural Magic Round and Penrith coach Ivan Cleary will certainly need to dig deep into his bag of tricks if his side is to walk away from Suncorp Stadium with a victory.

Penrith fans have every right to feel disgusted with the way the side played against Canberra in Wagga last weekend. It was a performance that exposed Penrith’s terrible ill-discipline and was devoid of enthusiasm and confidence.

Fans and sponsors deserve better than the rabble that has been dished up too often this season, and while the Finals now look unlikely, we can only hope the players find the desire and pride that should come with pulling on the Penrith jersey before this team starts to look down

the barrel of a disappointing wooden spoon season.

Cleary has been forced into a raft of changes this weekend, though it could have been much worse.

James Maloney’s success at the judiciary on Tuesday night means he’s free to play, and while he hasn’t been in the best form of late, his competitive nature is crucial to Penrith’s chances; he’s been around long enough to know that he needs to play better and that much of Penrith’s fortunes rest on his shoulders.

The likely loss of Viliame Kikau to an ankle injury is significant, given Penrith send so much of their attack his way.

Kikau has been named on the extended bench but was rated only a slim chance of playing, and will most likely be back against the Warriors next weekend.

With Isaah Yeo also out, Cleary has named a new-look forward pack.

Reagan Campbell-Gillard returns to the starting side, while Frank Winterstein is back from injury to partner James FisherHarris in the second row. Hame Sele is back at lock, returning to first grade after a sleep-in cost him a stint in the Canterbury Cup. The return of Dean Whare means Dallin Watene-Zelezniak moves onto to the wing, with Cleary resisting the temptation to shift him back to fullback and offer Dylan Edwards a reprieve.

Whare’s return is significant given his strong defence, and Penrith’s backline looks a little more set and potent than in previous weeks.

Who knows what sort of performance this team will dish up on Friday, especially with so much disruption in the lead-up to the contest, but perhaps those given the opportunity this weekend will play with a little more heart and determination

1

Moses Mbye (c)

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

Mahe Fonua Robert Jennings Esan Marsters Corey Thompson Benji Marshall Luke Brooks Ben Matulino Robbie Farah Alex Twal Ryan Matterson Chris McQueen Matthew Eisenhuth Jacob Liddle Thomas Mikaele Oliver Clark 17 Luke Garner Paul Momirovski

than the first-choice side has produced in recent times.

The Tigers, who fell to Penrith in Golden Point earlier this year and would be desperate to even the ledger, like to throw the ball around and the Panthers will have to work hard to contain their second phase play, especially when you consider Penrith has missed more tackles than any other club this season.

Against the Roosters last weekend, the Tigers proved they are a fair way off the competition’s best teams, but they still played with a huge chunk of spirit.

I’m most looking forward to the halves battle here. You’ve got a couple of veterans in Maloney and Benji Marshall facing off against each other, while the young guns in Nathan Cleary and Luke Brooks also meet.

I’m sticking with the Panthers... just.

Tip: Panthers by 4.

31

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

JACK STAYS OUT  Despite a growing injury toll, don’t

expect to see Jack Hetherington back in first grade any time soon. The 22-yearold, who made his first grade debut a little over a year ago, played Canterbury Cup last week after a few weeks off but Ivan Cleary is unlikely to elevate him into the NRL side. Hetherington is not necessarily out of favour but has some work to do both on and off the field before he can be thrown into the pressure of the NRL melting pot again. The club is closely monitoring him.

 Which Penrith NRL player’s mother is

not happy with Ivan Cleary’s team selections at the moment? She’s been making her views known on social media.

 Canterbury Cup coach Guy Missio

was forced to hit the phones last Saturday night in an attempt to put a side together to face Mounties the following day at Aubrey Keech Reserve. With four players withdrawn from the team due to likely NRL call-ups, Missio had to rely on inexperienced players. The situation became laughable when one player who Missio called on Saturday night was out on the drink, and had to get himself ready to play the next day after the unexpected call-up. There were reports that some players were even being introduced to each other in the dressing room before the game. Incredibly, the Panthers won the match – one of the upsets of the season in any grade.

 The Panthers still have one spot to fill

in their top 30 after Tyrone Phillips parted ways with the club last month. However, the club will need to find a bargain buy if they’re to add a new recruit to the ranks, with Phillips’ salary hovering around the NRL minimum wage. There’s still plenty of talk that there’ll be a bit of movement at the foot of the Mountains before June 30, so watch this space!

 The daughter of Penrith legend Mark

Geyer has commenced legal proceedings against the administrator of a Facebook page over allegations relating to a sex tape, which surfaced in the pre-season.

Jack Hetherington at Panthers training

Montana Geyer has now filed a Statement of Claim in the District Court and is seeking damages from the administrator of the “NRL Memes” and “NRL Quality Memes” pages.

 Penrith have quietly parted ways with

Liam Coleman, who was thrust into the spotlight when he was charged with ‘indecent assault’ late last year. With Coleman also involved in the sex tape scandal that rocked Penrith’s pre-season, the club saw very little light at the end of the tunnel for the young halfback.

 James Maloney scored his 1800th

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Word about Isaah Yeo’s season being over leaked out on Monday, but it baffled Penrith officials and Yeo himself. The 24-year-old hadn’t even been for scans yet when the first story was published. As it turns out, Yeo will only miss around a month of football.

scheduling. Thanks to the folks at Bankwest Stadium, The Masked Panther has a family pass to give away to the Panthers v Eels match! For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Bankwest Stadium’ in the subject line. Entries close Wednesday, May 15 and the winner will be notified by email. Tickets to the game on May 23 are on the sale now.



 Brian To’o and Matheson Johns have

career point when he booted a goal for Penrith against the Raiders last weekend.



The Panthers head to Bankwest Stadium for the first time on May 23 when they meet the Eels. It’ll be the stadium’s first big test given the way Penrith are playing and the difficulty of a Thursday night

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WW36201

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 10, 2019

FEATURE

DON’T WRITE US OFF NATHAN

TAYLOR

Moses Leota in action against Souths earlier this season. Photo: Melinda Jane

WW36628

In the wake of Penrith’s fresh injury toll and run of bad form, interchange forward Moses Leota says there’s still time for his side to go on a run and achieve a Finals berth.

Despite sitting in second last position with just two wins to their name, Penrith’s fight for a Finals spot will continue tonight when they face old foes Wests Tigers at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium for the NRL’s Magic Round.

While many believe a fourth straight Finals appearance is out of the equation based on Penrith’s slow and tumultuous start to the year, it is still well and truly possible if they manage to string some victories together.

“I have faith in the boys that we can do it as a team,” Leota told Extra Time of Penrith’s playoff chances.

“We just need to take it week to week and hopefully it will play out in the end.

“I don’t know what’s going on of late, we have our good games and our bad – and we’ve had a lot of bad – but we are hoping to get back into the winner’s circle this week.”

The last time Penrith tasted victory was back in Round 4, funnily enough against this Friday night’s opponents. That evening the Panthers snatched victory from the jaws of defeat thanks to a clutch Nathan Cleary sideline conversion and subsequent field goal in golden point.

Leota said he remembers last month’s game against the Tigers at Panthers Stadium rather well.

“I remember that being a tough game, the Tigers really came to play but we stuck in right to the end and got the field goal – it was pretty special,” the 23-year-old said.

If Penrith are unable to beat Michael Maguire’s men, who also suffered a last start defeat at the hands of the 2018 Premiers, it’ll be the club’s fifth loss in a row. The last time the Panthers suffered five straight defeats was back in 2017, when they were also written off before making a remarkable late season charge to the Finals.

If Penrith are to turn around their fortunes, Leota says it all starts at training.

“It’s just the little things we are getting wrong, we are trying to work on them but haven’t quite got them right,” he said.

“Thankfully that’s why we turn up to training every day, to try and get them right.”

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE Viliame Kikau leaves the field last Saturday. Photo: NRL Photos

CARNAGE INJURIES R ATTLE PANTHERS IN WAGGA NATHAN

TAYLOR

34

Things have gone from bad to worse for Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, with three key players suffering injuries last weekend.

It was absolute carnage at McDonalds Park in Wagga on Saturday afternoon with Isaah Yeo (shoulder), Viliame Kikau (ankle) and Malakai Watene-Zelezniak (ribs) all exiting the field early during Penrith 30-12 loss at the hands of the Canberra Raiders.

24-year-old Yeo will be sidelined for at least four weeks after suffering a dislocated left shoulder.

The Dubbo product, who has had shoulder issues in the past, will undertake a rehabilitation program on the shoulder for the next month.

Unsubstantiated reports on Monday had Yeo ruled out for the entire season.

Fijian powerhouse Kikau was also assisted off in Penrith’s loss to Canberra, injuring his ankle in a tackle.

This is the second major injury this season for the 24-year-old after he missed the opening three rounds following an MCL injury. Kikau is currently a week to week proposition with the forward suffering some minor damage to his right ankle ligaments.

Meanwhile, Watene-Zelezniak will miss time after suffering a rib cartilage injury last weekend.

The 27-year-old former Tiger, who left the field clutching his chest, will be sidelined indefinitely.

While Penrith’s rehab group grew by three this week, it did lose a couple with the club welcoming back two players after stints on the sidelines.

Frank Winterstein returns this Friday night after injuring his knee against the Tigers in Round 4, while centre Dean

Whare will make a comeback following two weeks out with a minor hamstring tear.

“IT’S UP TO US TO GO OUT THERE AND DO OUR BEST”

While Penrith’s depth will be tested over the next few weeks, 29-year-old Whare said full faith will be put into the replacements.

“It’s unlucky for us that we have so many injuries, but we have a lot of boys that can

come up and play for us,” he told Extra Time.

“The boys who played Canterbury Cup last weekend went really well and this gives them an opportunity to play. A lot of teams have injuries and setbacks, but it’s up to us to go out there and do our best.”

With Penrith down on troops and confidence, Whare believes his side should take inspiration from an unlikely source – the Cronulla Sharks.

Last Friday night a patched up Sharks outfit managed to knock off Melbourne despite missing several key players including Matt Moylan and Shaun Johnson.

“Cronulla beat one of the best teams in the comp the other day, I watched that game and saw the effort they put in and the hunger they had to win,” he said.

“We’re in a similar situation at the moment with injuries, hopefully our young guys can come up and do the things that Cronulla were doing.”

Panthers and Tigers both need some magic this weekend

ANDY RAYMOND T

his weekend is Magic Round in the NRL and there’s plenty of sides that will be hoping to pull a rabbit out of their hat.

One of those sides is the Penrith Panthers.

The Panthers were gritty against the Raiders and showed plenty of heart, but their attack still looked a little clunky and disorganised at times.

Penrith haven’t had any troubles getting themselves into the attacking zone this season, but it’s when they get into the opposition 20 that they struggle most.

Ivan Cleary will be sweating on the fitness of Viliame Kikau this weekend.

Kikau has been the Panthers’ go-to man this season and his loss would be a massive blow.

James Maloney was given a second life by the judiciary this week and he needs to make the most of the second chance he’s been given.

The Wests Tigers will be absolutely stinging after being towelled up by the Roosters last weekend and you can guarantee that Michael Maguire will have them fired up for this one.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 10, 2019

Brought to you by

Brisbane and Gold Coast players, along with Gorden Tallis, helped launch Magic Round earlier this week No coach likes to lose, but Maguire physically despises it. He would have gone into last weekend’s clash thinking that his side were capable of pulling off an upset and would have called on his chargers to make a statement about their premiership chances.

The fact his side had their pants pulled

down 42-12 would not have pleased Maguire and he would have let his side know about it on the training paddock this week.

When these two sides met in Round 4 the Wests Tigers were the better side for 70 minutes of the match, but were blown away by some Nathan Cleary magic in the

dying minutes. If there was ever a time that the Panthers needed some Cleary magic, it’s this weekend in Magic Round.

Cleary is a special talent, he’s a leader in the Panthers side and he’s the incumbent Blues halfback. He showed in Round 4 that he can turn the match on a dime and is capable of owning the big moments.

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DONNA HILDON

STEPHEN GRINGHUIS

ROSS FOWLER

KIM HORAN

ALEX MCKENZIE

STEVE SUTTON

TERRY HANSEN

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS

080

078 018 018

078

078

076

076

076

076

076

074

CATHOLIC CEMETARIES 9826 2273

GOTZINGER SMALL GOODS 0418 594 791

MACQUARIE COMMERCIAL 0402 896 906

ROBERT HENRY STATEWIDE REALTY 0418 650 579

RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL PENRITH 0417 228 587

KELLY PARTNERS 4721 7433

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

HERTZ 4731 6344

THE AGENCY REAL ESTATE 0401 560 116

HARVEY NORMAN BEDDING 0401 505 140

Sharks Tigers Sea Eagles Knights

Dragons Eels Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Eels Raiders Cowboys

Sharks Tigers Sea Eagles Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Bulldogs

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Titans Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Warriors Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Knights

Warriors Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Tigers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

070

070

070

070

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

CC TYRES 4731 4822

Sharks Tigers Sea Eagles Bulldogs

Dragons Eels Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Tigers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Eels Raiders Cowboys

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Tigers Broncos Knights

Dragons Eels Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

HOTONDO HOMES 0403 723 486

VISION PAINTING & DECORATING 0404 459 600

LENDCORP FOR FINANCE MADE EASY! 4722 2800

SMITH STREET AUTO 4731 4019

TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING 1300 318 444

AARON TYERS

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BARNEY ALLAM

CHRIS AYLING

LEISURE POOLS 1300 SPLASH

Titans Tigers Broncos Bulldogs

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT 4732 2195

KANE TOWNS

072

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

BRICKS & MORTAR REAL ESTATE 0406 277 417

JOHN TODD

072

Sharks Tigers Broncos Knights

ANTHEA STRATHDEE

072

Dragons Eels Roosters Rabbitohs

HELENA CRUMPTON

074

Sharks Tigers Sea Eagles Knights

GARTON GROUP MCDONALD’S 4721 2992

CHRIS GROSS

IAN GARTON SALLY MUIRHEAD VICTOR GLANVILLE PAUL NEWTON MICHAEL ASHTON TREVOR LE BRETON HANS BOR ANTON HEARN MATT BOND LEE BANISTER

074

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

070

068

068

068

066

062

060

058

050

048

MACQUARIE ACCOUNTANTS 4731 5628

ALLAM PROPERTY GROUP 4732 2422

EZRVEND 0414 254 074

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

AT PRINT 4731 5055

TOWNS CRANES 0487 272 819

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE 4721 5011

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR CONDITIONING 4735 6411

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0415 119 019

VISION PERSONAL TRAINING 4742 5079

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Bulldogs

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Titans Tigers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Raiders Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Eels Roosters Rabbitohs

Titans Panthers Sea Eagles Bulldogs

Warriors Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Storm Roosters Rabbitohs

Sharks Panthers Broncos Knights

Dragons Eels Raiders Cowboys

Sharks Tigers Broncos Knights

Warriors Eels Raiders Rabbitohs

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 10, 2019

074

Sharks Panthers Sea Eagles Knights

37

WW37479

38

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Is Latrell Mitchell the game’s best player?

CLINTON MAYNARD but given the Sea Eagles have hardly fired a shot since DCE signed that contract, the strategy is questionable.

Penrith decided Nathan Cleary was that player for them. However the start of 2019 has hardly been the best few months of his career, but he has plenty of time to turn it around.

Kalyn Ponga at the Knights is certainly a young player you could build a club around, but the first weeks of the season proved a shift to a game management position in the halves was harder in practice than it was on paper.

A player who was a late developer but is certainly shaping as the key to the South Sydney side, Damien Cook, is a player the Bulldogs and Dragons would both be wishing they’d kept at their clubs.

Mitchell may well end up the best player in the game, but as a centre is he the man to pin your hopes on, and if he moves to fullback or number 6, would he be as effective?

There’s no question if you had an open cheque book he’d be a player you’d consider, but whether he’s the ‘one’ remains to be seen.

Latrell Mitchell in action against Penrith last year. Photo: Megan Dunn

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f you were in charge of an NRL club and you could sign any player in the game, who would that player be? Who is the player in the game you could build a club around?

Many of the game’s leading experts have asked the question this week, who is the best player in the game?

That was following Latrell Mitchell’s remarkable performance against the Wests Tigers last weekend.

He was brilliant, no question, and at 21 he has already achieved so much in the game.

However as a centre and if you had an open cheque book, is he the player you’d build a club around?

Previously the question was a little easier to answer as the best players in the game played in the most important positions, Johnathon Thurston a halfback, Billy Slater a fullback and Cameron Smith a hooker.

The proposition is the reason Manly signed Daly Cherry-Evans to a 10-year deal and one of the richest in the game.

As a halfback, the number 7 is the sort of player a coach develops a team around,

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 10, 2019

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

8

7

0

1

0

223

124

+99

14

2 Rabbitohs

8

7

0

1

0

202

121

+81

14

3 Raiders

8

6

0

2

0

173

102

+71

12

4 Storm

8

6

0

2

0

163

105

+58

12

5 Eels

8

5

0

3

0

195

143

+52

10

6 Sea Eagles

8

5

0

3

0

161

130

+31

10

7 Sharks

8

4

0

4

0

148

157

-9

8

8 Dragons

8

4

0

4

0

148

160

-12

8

9 W. Tigers

8

4

0

4

0

140

166

-26

8

CLUB

1

Roosters

10 Knights

8

3

0

5

0

146

150

-4

6

11 Cowboys

8

3

0

5

0

131

179

-48

6

12 Warriors

8

2

0

6

0

148

190

-42

4

13 Broncos

8

2

0

6

0

142

185

-43

4

14 Titans

8

2

0

6

0

132

191

-59

4

15 Panthers

8

2

0

6

0

113

180

-67

4

16 Bulldogs

8

2

0

6

0

104

186

-82

4

FACE IN THE CROWD

Round 9

/ / / / / / / /

Thursday, May 9 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium

Friday, May 10 6pm Suncorp Stadium

Friday, May 10 8.05pm Suncorp Stadium

Saturday, May 11 3pm Suncorp Stadium

IS THIS YOU?

Saturday, May 11 5.30pm Suncorp Stadium

Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

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

Saturday, May 11 7.35pm Suncorp Stadium

Extra Time Issue Number 2019-009

Sunday, May 12 2pm Suncorp Stadium

PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Clinton Maynard / Andy Raymond

Sunday, May 12 4.05pm Suncorp Stadium

SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

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John Farragher before being taken from the field in 1978 Penrith’s darkest day There’s been some rough moments in Penrith’s more than half century history in top flight rugby league. But no matter what has happened in the past, and no matter what happens in the next 50 years, it’ll be hard to find a tougher, more sadder day than May 28, 1978.

The Panthers were facing Newtown at Henson Park and young prop John Farragher was making his seventh appearance in the top grade. Farragher had come down from country NSW to trial with Penrith in 1977 but decided to go back home to Gilgandra, before eventually winning his contract in 1978.

Club officials believed he had plenty

of talent and he certainly showed what he was made of in his first six games in Panthers colours.

But Farragher’s career would be tragically cut short on that May day, and his name would enter rugby league folklore for all the wrong reasons.

May 28, 1978 would not only be the last day Farragher would play rugby league, but the last day he would walk.

A scrum collapsed during the first half and after everyone else regained their feet, it was quickly noticed that one player remained on the ground.

Farragher was motionless. He told medics that he couldn’t feel anything – prompting a major emergency reaction

on the field. The game was held up for more than half an hour before Farragher was transported from the field.

Tests would later confirm that Farragher had broken his spinal cord and would become a quadriplegic.

The incident happened in the first half and even in those days, news travelled quickly.

By half-time, the Penrith squad was aware that it didn’t look good for Farragher – and some reports suggested they even wanted to call the game off.

In those days, with rugby league far from a fully fledged professional sport, the option was most definitely considered.

However, the Panthers played on and “did it for John”, and beat the Jets comfortably.

Farragher recalls the incident in the Panthers: Men In Black book.

“I wasn’t in any agony, there was no pain or anything,” he said.

“It was a strange feeling, like a battery quickly wearing down to nothing. They put a brace around my neck and got me into the ambulance. I knew then I wouldn’t walk again and I said that to Ian Maurice in the ambulance on the way to the hospital.”

These days, Farragher – with his welcoming smile – is a mainstay at the Panthers Leagues Club, where he’s been employed for decades.

SCOREBOARD NRL RAIDERS 30 PANTHERS 12

NSW CUP PANTHERS 30 MOUNTIES 22

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 10, 2019

Panther Flashback

JERSEY FLEGG RAIDERS 37 PANTHERS 12

BEHIND THE PANTHERS

John White Chief Financial Officer – Rugby League HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR PANTHERS? Since 2003.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING FOR PANTHERS? Great colleagues, who are all striving to achieve success on and off the field.

WHO IS YOUR FUNNIEST COLLEAGUE AT PANTHERS? Recruitment Manager Jim Jones. He once had the chance to recruit Wendell Sailor, but thought he would never make it as a footballer.

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

EXTRA MINUTES  Wests Tigers have secured a further

commitment of funding for the club’s Centre of Excellence Project at Concord Oval. Liberal Candidate for Reid, Fiona Martin, confirmed on Tuesday that a re-elected Morrison Government will provide $5 million for the re-development of Concord Oval – including the Wests Tigers Centre of Excellence – as well as an additional $1 million to be provided over two years to establish a new “Cubs” engagement program supporting multicultural youth. “The Wests Tigers are an integral part of our community here in Reid, and I’m proud that we are backing them in,” Dr Martin said.

 Warriors forward Adam Blair will sit

out Magic Round this weekend after being suspended for a Dangerous Throw in last week’s loss to Newcastle. He submitted an early guilty plea to the charge, which stemmed from an incident in the 28th minute.

 Bad news for St George-Illawarra fans

with five-eighth Corey Norman suffering a fractured cheekbone in last weekend’s loss to his former club Parramatta. Norman underwent surgery on Tuesday and is expected to miss at least a month of football.

Happy Tigers: Luke Brooks, Fiona Martin and Moses Mbye this week

 The Bulldogs have announced a huge

family fun day for their clash against Melbourne on Sunday, May 26 at Belmore Oval. The match has special significance as it will feature the return of members of the 1980 and 2004 Premiership winning sides in honour of Steve Folkes who played in the 1980 side and coached the

2004 side. Each team will do a lap of honour of the ground. In addition there will be a Family Fun Zone in action throughout the day featuring an obstacle course, pass the football, a balloon artist, fairy floss and a Kindi Farm; plus a half-time Dance Spectacular featuring over 1500 local children.

 Melbourne Storm has added to its

backline depth by signing Nicho Hynes until the end of the 2020 NRL season.

Currently playing for the unbeaten Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Intrust Super Cup, the 22-year-old had his first official training run as a Storm player at Gosch’s Paddock on Tuesday.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

A night of beautiful music EMILY FESZCZUK

E

mma Matthews, one of opera’s brightest stars, is travelling to Penrith to perform Mozart along with Schubert in an intimate evening with the incredible Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

After spending time over the past year teaching classical voice and opera studies in Western Australia, she is excited to be back performing arias, which are long songs accompanied by a solo voice.

“I’m delighted to be singing with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra again, and to be bringing these incredible arias to life with such a fantastic group of musicians,” Emma told the Weekender.

“It feels like I’m coming home

after being away from Sydney for over a year, so I think there will be a lot of heart in these performances.”

Emma’s versatility, charisma and exquisite soprano fits perfectly with Mozart’s jewel like arias, which she believes everyone can connect to.

“It is incredible writing, which is full of virtuosity, not only in the writing, but in the demands of the singer and instrumental playing. The way the music sweeps through requires excellent technique and clean lines, which is a constant challenge,’’ Emma said.

“I always come back to Mozart to find my true sound and I think you can’t not connect with Mozart, or not feel something when you hear his works. Mozart is truly everyman’s composer.”

Emma said audiences should expect a night of beautiful music

from herself and the orchestra, which has evolved over the last nine decades to be world renowned.

“The night will be a variety of concert and opera arias, that cover the vast landscape of vocal fireworks and emotional depth.

There will be some of my favourite pieces, a couple of which are my first in performance,’’ she said.

“The Sydney Symphony Orchestra is made up of the crème de la crème of musicians who all love playing Mozart. I for one am rapt to be coming back to Sydney, singing such challenging and wonderful music and I think it’s going to be a remarkable evening.’’

Emma Matthews will perform live at The Joan in Penrith on Friday, May 31 at 7.30pm. Tickets are from $30. To book or for more information, call 4723 7600 or visit www.thejoan.com.au.

COLLECTORMANIA TOY AND HOBBY FAIR Australia’s Largest Toy Collectables Fair

This Sunday 12th May, 9am-3pm Penrith Panthers Exhibition Centre • Diecast Model Cars • Plastic Kits • Trading Cards • Posters • Vintage Toys • Lego • Action Figures • TV/Movie Toys & Memorabilia • Dolls & much more DOOR PRIZES & GIVEAWAYS DURING THE DAY

Enquiries 0416 291 280 Visit us on Facebook at Collectormania Toy & Hobby Fair

ADMISSION ADULTS $6 CONCESSION $4 PENSIONERS $2 CHILDREN FREE

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45

HEADING OUT Friday, May 10 Oz Icons – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 DJ – Australian Arms Free entry, 10pm 4731 3881 The Tap Pack Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub, 4723 5050 Friday, May 10, 8pm, From $64.90

Pool Comp – Penrith Hotel $3, 7pm 4721 2060 Karaoke & DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 DJ – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Acoustic Duo – Red Cow Free entry, 6pm 4721 5666 DJ Zapha – Red Cow Free entry, 9pm 4721 5666 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Royale With Cheese ‘90s Tribute – O’ Donoghues Free entry, 8.30pm 4735 5509 Out Of Salem – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Matchbox – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Travis Collins – Rooty Hill RSL From $15, 8pm 9625 5500

Saturday, May 11 Rock City Saints – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4734 5555

DJ Archie – Red Cow Free entry, 7pm 4721 5666 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Rave On – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Oz Icons – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Rough Diamond – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 The Vallies – Blacktown Workers From $15, 8pm 9830 0600 Chris Drummond Duo – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 The Frocks – Blacktown Workers Sports Free entry, 9pm 8822 2444 Crawl File – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9.30pm 9623 1384 K Groove – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Camel Racing – Penrith Paceway From $1, 4pm 1300 385 838 Odd Couple John Lees Centre, 4735 5422 Saturday, May 11, 7pm, From $20

Mother’s Day High Tea – St Marys Leagues $35, 10.30am 9677 7777 Mother’s Day Buffet – St Marys Band Club $38, 11am 9623 1211

Friday, May 17 Endless Summer Beach Party – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 DJ – Australian Arms Free entry, 10pm 4731 3881 One Hit Wonders O’Donoghues, 4735 5509 Friday, May 17, 9pm, Free entry

Music Of The Night The Joan, 4723 7611 Saturday, May 18, 8pm, From $39.90

Pool Comp – Penrith Hotel $3, 7pm 4721 2060 Karaoke & DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 DJ – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Acoustic Duo – Red Cow Free entry, 6pm 4721 5666 DJR – Red Cow Free entry, 9pm 4721 5666 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Frocks – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777

Saturday, May 18 Sunday, May 12 The Shuffle Boys – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Mother’s Day – O’Donoghues Free entry, 8am 4735 5509 Emad Younan – Blacktown Workers Sports Free entry, 1pm 8822 2444 Marina Prior & David Hobson – Rooty Hill RSL From $35, 2pm 9625 5500 Mother’s Day Brunch – Rooty Hill RSL From $25, 10am 9625 5500

Canned Heat – Penrith Panthers $73.80, 8pm 1800 061 991 Bob Gillespie – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Confetti Disco Party Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4734 555 DJ Archie – Red Cow Free entry, 7pm 4721 5666 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002

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Night Shift – St Marys RSL Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 6555 The Wedding Singer – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub From $32.40, 8pm 4723 5050 Odd Couple – John Lees Centre From $20, 2pm & 7pm 4735 5422 Endless Summer Beach Party – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Smooth Jive Consultants – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 Ipanema Latin Band – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Too Many Guitars – Blacktown Workers Sports Free entry, 8pm 8822 2444 Let’s Groove Tonight – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Australian Blink 182 – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 8pm 9623 1384 Kick INXS – Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9670 3050

Sunday, May 19 Dwayne Ellix – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Wedding Singer – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub From $32.40, 2pm 4723 5050 Rob O’Brien – Blacktown Workers Sports Free entry, 1pm 8822 2444

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

what's on AND where

O D UST

M

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Leonay Probus Club Third Friday of the month 4735 5157 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Penrith Museum of Printing Saturdays from 10am-2pm Pen Paceway • 0415 625 573 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 Spend mum’s special day at Panthers Want to spoil mum for Mother’s Day? Panthers is hosting one of their famous carnivals in The Backyard for mum and the family to enjoy. Let her start the day with a special breakfast and ‘mum-osas’ at Kelly’s Brasserie or delicious lunch and bubbly at The Ming, with flowers on arrival at both. Check out the range of market stalls, free rides and games along with prizes to be won and tasting experiences of premium wines. Across the club there will be live entertainment to enjoy throughout the day, so give Mum the day off and make this one to remember.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

Sunset Station Singers Mondays 7.00pm 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

Get ready for Mother’s Day

Historical expo at Panthers

Handcraft a beautiful card in the craft zone at St Marys Village this Saturday, May 11 from 11am to 2pm.

Step back in time at the Antique and Modern Arms and Collectables Expo. It is at Panthers Pavilion on May 18 and 19 from 9am.

Penrith RSL Travel Club New members welcome 0405 332 464

NORMAN’S SCRAP METALS Free Call 1800 225 235 NEW & USED STEEL BOUGHT & SOLD

OPEN 7 DAYS MOST PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

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*Valid Wed, Thu & Sun shows May 16-26, subject to availability. Must enter promo code MUM in the OFFER CODE box when booking for select performances on Ticketmaster.com.au. A Handling Fee from $8.75 per transaction applies. Offer Ends Tuesday May 14, 11pm.

48

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Still as hot as ever EMILY FESZCZUK

A

merican rock band Canned Heat rose to fame in 1966 with their blues music. More than 50 years later and with 38 albums, the original band is still going strong and playing in Penrith in a set to sell-out show.

The band has a unique blend of modern electric blues, rock and boogie, which has earned them a loyal following.

They have also influenced many aspiring guitarists and bands during the past four decades.

The band members have a knowledge and love of blues music that runs both

deep and wide. Their tracks ‘On The Road Again’, ‘Let’s Work Together’ and ‘Going Up The Country’ became worldwide hits and unofficial anthems for the Woodstock generation.

The line-up for the tour includes founding members Adolfo de la Parra and Larry Taylor along with longstanding members John Paulus and Dale Spalding.

Be sure to see these talented musicians do what they do best!

Canned Heat will be on at the EVAN Theatre in Penrith on Saturday, May 18 at 8pm. Tickets are $73.80. To book, call 1800 PANTHERS or visit penrithpanthers.com.au.

WW36225

EMILY FESZCZUK

T

he sounds of Latin America will sizzle at the Riverside when Chilean-Columbian band Los Pitutos hit the stage. Parramatta audiences will be transported to another world of sultry Latin American nights in a special performance.

Formed in Berlin in 2015, these four talented musicians are armed with top notch credentials and are classically trained. With Latin blood streaming through their veins and the creamiest of voices, they will make you fall in love.

Combining their own compositions with popular Latin American styles

of music including Boleros, Cumbias, Joropos and Valses, Los Pitutos are renowned for their unique sound that seduces the senses and captivates the audience.

The program will include a selection of original songs by the band alongside much-loved covers including ‘Bésame Mucho’ and ‘Quizas Quizas Quizas’.

Their sound will seduce the senses of the audience and welcome them to the world of Latin music in a slower century.

Los Pitutos will be on at the Riverside Theatre in Parramatta on Sunday, May 12 at 3pm. Tickets start at $28. To book or for more information, call 8839 3399 or visit www.riversideparramatta.com. au.

EMMA MATTHEWS SINGS MOZART ARIAS CONCERT HALL

FINE MUSIC

Photo: Carolyn Mackay Clark

Enjoy an intimate evening of Mozart and Schubert.

Recognised as a Mozart interpreter, virtuosic and insightful, Emma Matthews has chosen hidden gems and well-known masterpieces that demonstrate Mozart’s dazzling ability to meld melody and voice. A stunning combination with Australia’s leading Symphony Orchestra.

FRI 31 MAY 7.30PM Standard $60 | Concession $55 | Under 30s $30 | Family $160

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600

WW37226

Music that will seduce the soul

SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

directed by Alan n and a Ro Robyn Pope

by David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin Jr

The hits you grew up with

10–18 May 2019 Glenbrook Community Theatre Fri 10 May 8pm, Sat 11 May 2pm + 8pm Fri 17 May 8pm, Sat 18 May 2pm + 8pm Tickets for all 8pm performances $26 for all 2pm performances $23

O

Bookings:

www.glenbrookplayers.com.au or 4739 1110 Group bookings and credit card facilities available

Glenbrook Players

An Amateur Production By Arrangement with ORiGiNTM Theatrical on behalf of SAMUEL FRENCH LTD WW37274

EMILY FESZCZUK

h what a night you are in for!

The Vallies are an all-singing, all-dancing tribute to the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

The Australian cast of four men perform the music of those boys from Jersey and take you through the hits that shaped a generation.

Bringing you the hits like ‘Sherry’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ and of course ‘Oh What A Night’, along with many more, you

will celebrate the sounds of the ‘60s.

The show pays tribute to the music of Motown and Rock ‘n’ Roll covering groups like The Drifters, The Temptations, The Righteous Brothers and even The Bee Gees.

Prepare for a high energy show with powerhouse vocals, slick dance moves and a live band that will have you on your feet, singing and dancing to all the songs you remember.

The Vallies will be on at Blacktown Workers Club on Saturday, May 11 at 8pm. Tickets start at $15. To book or for more information, call 9830 0600.

PENRITH

MOTHER’S DAY Spoil Mum this Mother’s day, with help from The Village.

Star t her day with a delicious breakfast, or treat her to a scrumptious 3 course meal, lunch or dinner.

We also have High Teas available all day.

Bookings and deposit are essential to secure your spot.

Session times: Breakfast: 8:30am till 11am; Lunch: 12-2pm; 2:30-4:30pm; High tea all day till 4pm

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Call us now to book your table 4721 1155 • 74 Henry St, Penrith

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SUNDAY 12 TH MAY

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

MEMBERS

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51

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

At the movies...

Surprising success LONG SHOT ++++ 2 hours, 25 mins EMILY FESZCZUK

I honestly didn’t know how a movie with Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron would work, so I had low expectations of ‘Long Shot’, but somehow I was pleasantly surprised.

‘Long Shot’ is a romantic comedy that follows free-spirited journalist Fred Flarsky (Rogen), who becomes a speech writer for accomplished politician Charlotte Field (Theron), who is running for the presidency.

They travel the world in a fun, sometimes trouble-filled adventure.

There is a great supporting cast, but it is fuelled by the odd yet strong chemistry of the two leads. While of course Rogen still uses his unique

sense of humour, he appears much more grown up and developed as an actor while Theron is electric on-screen, and you cannot take your eyes of her.

The film is deceptively sharp and has many layers. It is not only clever and witty but an endearing romantic tale that touches on real world issues like inept presidents and the state of our environment. Writers Dan Sterling and Elizabeth Hannah do a great job of writing a story about being true to yourself and the things you are passionate about, while director Jonathan Levine transfers that on screen in a major way.

It is a must see that provides genuine belly laughs with a political edge.

Hustle, The (M Crude sexual humour and coarse language) Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:20AM, 12:40PM, 2:50PM, 5:10PM, 7:20PM, 9:30PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 1:10PM, 5:10PM, 7:20PM, 9:30PM.

Pokemon Detective Pikachu (PG Mild themes

and fantasy violence, some scenes may scare younger children)

PENRITH

Daily except Fri, Sat: 11:00AM, 1:30PM, 4:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:50PM, 9:00PM. Fri: 11:00AM, 1:30PM, 4:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:50PM, 9:00PM, 10:10PM.

SESSIONS VALID 9TH MAY TO 15TH MAY

Sat: 11:00AM, 1:30PM, 4:00PM, 6:30PM, 8:00PM, 9:00PM, 10:20PM.

Poms (PG Mild sexual references and coarse language) WW34887

Session times are subject to change without notice, visit www.hoyts.com.au to check session times or book tickets

Daily except Sat: 10:20AM, 1:20PM, 3:30PM, 5:40PM. Sat: 10:20AM, 1:20PM, 3:30PM, 7:00PM.

W E’l l M a k e it

HAPPEN

CALL PHIL:

0413 577 817 www.dixonscranes.com.au

WW33822

52

LOCAL SAFE RELIABLE PROFESSIONAL

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Ê The next incarnation of ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ has named its judging panel ahead of its return to Channel Seven. ‘My Kitchen Rules’ judge Manu Feidel is one of the new judges alongside theatre actress Lucy Durack, actor Shane Jacobson and former Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger. Ricki-Lee Coulter will host the show. ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ will air on Seven later this year.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê New 10 drama ‘Five Bedrooms’ will premiere next Wednesday, May 15 at 8.40pm. The eight-part series sees a group of singles at a wedding end up jointly buying a property together in Melbourne. It stars Kat Stewart, Stephen Peacocke, Doris Younane, Katie Robertson, Roy Joseph, Kate Jenkinson and Hugh Sheridan. Ê Deborah Hutton has been announced as the host of new LifeStyle property series ‘Find Me A Beach House’. In the series, Hutton helps buyers with a variety of budgets discover the perfect beachside retreat. They are introduced to three different properties, from Sydney’s Northern beaches to Melbourne’s Mornington

MAY 15

8.40PM

FIVE BEDROOMS, 10

Peninsula. ‘Find Me A Beach House’ will premiere later this year.

Ê FOX8 music drama ‘Empire’ has been renewed for a sixth season. However, one of the show’s main stars, Jussie Smollett, will likely not feature after he was embroiled in some self-inflicted drama of late. Ê

Ê Netflix has acquired the rights to a movie based on the dramatic rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach from a flooded cave in northern Thailand in 2018.

Ê

Ê Rebooted US sci-fi hit ‘The Twilight Zone’ has been renewed. Produced and narrated by Jordan Peele, ‘The Twilight Zone’ currently streams on 10 All Access.

Foxtel Arts channel will broadcast live the 73rd Annual Tony Awards, hosted by James Corden, from New York City on Monday, June 10 at 10am.

AUSTRALIA’S GOT TALENT, 7

ww w.p enr Our Services:

Ê The 64th Eurovision Song Contest, live from Israel, will hit screens next week on SBS. Semi Finals will be staged next Wednesday and Friday, while the Final will air live on Sunday, May 19 at 5am.

Myf Warhurst and Joel Creasey return as hosts, while Kate Miller-Heidke is Australia’s entrant.

Season 15 of US medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ will premiere on 7flix this Tuesday, May 14 at 8.30pm.

m o c . ithw omenshealthcentre

Female Doctors & Nurses Services for Migrant and Refugee Women

Counselling

Legal Advice

Domestic Violence Services

Well-being Groups

Services for Migrant and Refugee Women

Information & Referral Service

4721 8749

Penrith Women’s Health Centre is a community organisation run by women for women and is funded by NSW Health

WW37478

Massage

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

1

2

3

11

Crossword ACROSS 1. 12 months 4. Grain storehouse 8. Grass skirt dance 11. Ring-shaped bun 13. Manufacturer 15. Smooth (timber) 17. Deed 18. Brown pigment 20. Bladder 21. Ultimatum, it’s ... never (3,2) 24. Tropical vine 27. Farmhouse cooker 28. Flight of geese 30. Loafed 31. Forwards 33. Dangers 34. Ceremony 35. Actress, ... Collette 36. Breaks off (affair) 39. Snuggles (up to) 42. Yellow shade 44. Film star, ... Jackman 45. Speeds 46. Becomes ill 48. Propeller sound 49. The Devil 50. Intense (desire) 52. Register 54. Chickens 55. Rio Carnival music 56. Inventor’s safeguard 57. Gallivants 60. Panache 62. Keep in check (4,2) 65. Female comrade 67. Irish author, ...

Binchy 69. Small amphibians 70. Slave’s master 72. Bash 73. Proverb 75. German river 77. Gymnastics floor pad 79. Circular coral reef 81. Health resort 82. Rejoinder 84. As a group, en ...

85. Annoy 86. Pink (complexion) 87. UV-protecting caps 88. Harp-like instrument

DOWN 1. Yelps 2. Stunned, taken ...

3. Organised 4. Luminescence 5. Prizes 6. Deer horn 7. Young Men’s Christian Association (1,1,1,1) 8. Dress edge 9. Built-up (zone) 10. Saintly radiance 12. Aladdin’s magical helper 14. Malaysian capital, ...

Lumpur 16. Noosed rope 19. Urged (on) 22. Headlong dash 23. Greasier 25. Phrases 26. Queasiness 29. Food-lover 32. Bullfight cheer 35. Defrosting 37. Ants’ homes 38. Substitute (5-2) 40. Monstrous giants 41. Steam-room 42. Greek fable writer 43. Come up 44. Walked through country 47. Portable light 51. Nabbed 52. Receding 53. Elaborate 54. British celebrity chef, ... Blumenthal 58. Allow entry to 59. That lady 61. Of hearing 63. Ellipses 64. Actor, Liam ...

65. Levels 66. Jugs 68. Physics particles 71. Not full 72. Curls 74. Copies 76. Loan contracts (1,1,2) 78. Category 80. Set down 83. Slippery fish

Last week’s solution

15

4

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

21

28

22

23

29

18

24

25

27

31

32

34

35

36

39

40

41

44

42

45

38

46

47

49

50

51

52

53

55

58

67

54

56

59

62

60

63

64

68

73

79

65

70

74

80

75

71

76

81

84

61

66

69

72

86

37

43

48

57

19

26

30

33

10

14

17

20

9

77

82

78

83

85

87

Sudoku brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

88

creative A U

S T

R

A

L

I

A

sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au 4722 2998

Sudoku Fill in all squares so each row, column and each of the nine 3 x 3 squares contain all digits from one to nine.

Last week’s Sudoku solution

54

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by worldaway.com.au | 8872 9697

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

Theme: SNAKES ANTIVENOM BROAD HEAD CAMOUFLAGE COMMON CONSTRICTOR DANGEROUS DISTINCTIVE GRASSLANDS LENGTH MARKINGS PREDATOR RAINFORESTS REPTILES TERRITORY TREES VENOM WOODLANDS Last week’s Word Search solution

4. What is the spin-off to ‘The Good Wife’ called?

5. How many seasons did ‘Boston Legal’ run for?

6. What is the name of the main law firm at the centre of ‘The Practice’ in its first season, which premiered in 1997?

WW36989

Test your knowledge about legal TV shows in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. Who is the only cast member to have appeared in every season of ‘Law & Order: SVU’?

2. Which ‘Suits’ character landed in jail in season 6?

3. Which actor portrayed Perry Mason in the TV show of the same name?

ANSWERS 1. Mariska Hargitay 2. Mike Ross 3. Raymond Burr 4. ‘The Good Fight’ 5. Five 6. Robert Donnell & Associates

Trivia Quiz

Alena Higgins

Nathan Taylor

Troy Dodds

Nicola Barton

Emily Feszczuk

Penrith’s most comprehensive coverage of local news – in print and online at westernweekender.com.au

55

WW37482

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

SUNDAY JUNE 9TH

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life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

LEO

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

This week is all about formulating smart strategies and finding practical solutions.

Focus on business and/or work, as the planets help you tap into the extra energy, enthusiasm, discipline and motivation needed to boost your finances and/or career. You’ve got the power, so make sure you use it positively! Saturday night’s Full Moon stirs up your selfesteem zone as you take a deeper look at your core values.

TAURUS

Venus (your patron planet) visits your sign from Wednesday until June 9. So it’s a wonderful week to have fun, mix, mingle and socialise, both in person and online. Then Saturday night’s Full Moon urges you to get the balance right between individual projects and joint ventures. And it also fires up your flirting zone. Do you long for more love and romance in your life?

GEMINI

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

The Full Moon stimulates your spirituality zone. So it’s a good time to meditate, contemplate, ruminate and rejuvenate your rundown batteries from within. And try to view a stressful situation from a less personal and more spiritual perspective.

Your intuition is certainly switched on, as you uncover important information that you would usually miss. As Gustave Flaubert said: “Anything becomes interesting if you look at it long enough”.

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Your Virgo curiosity will be piqued this week. Plus Saturn, Pluto and the Full Moon could generate a lucky opportunity involving travel, education, children, sport or social media. So get your ideas out there as you inform and entertain others with your marvellous mercurial mind. As Samuel Johnson said: “Curiosity is one of the permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous mind”.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The planetary patterns promise a satisfying week … with one proviso. Can you keep your control-freak tendencies under control? If you can, then you’ll astound and amaze others with your can-do Capricorn attitude, your natural personal authority, and your talent for leadership. You’re ready, willing and able to work. Just make sure you are generous and inclusive.

LIBRA

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Daily posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2019

The Sun/Pluto trine brings the opportunity for recognition and advancement at school, college or work. Through your daily words and actions, you have the power to influence people in positive and productive ways. So don’t miss the chance to make a real difference. Watch out for domestic dramas on the weekend though, when the Full Moon shines a spotlight on a family fiasco. Step back and observe from the sidelines.

SAGITTARIUS

VIRGO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Joanne Madeline Moore

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

You’re keen to have fun this week but resist the tendency to be a superficial and garrulous Gemini. There’s a lot more going on beneath the surface than meets the eye. Saturn, Pluto and the Full Moon encourage you to slow down, strip back the layers of polite conversation, listen and learn. And Neptune also boosts creativity, compassion, perception and intuition. You’ll find thoughtful observation and soul-searching will take you far.

CANCER

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Have you been shopping up a storm when you should have been saving or paying off debt? If the answer is ‘yes’ then you can expect a financial hiccup this week, as the Full Moon highlights money matters.

It also brings up issues involving your personal values and self-esteem. So you’ll find the less you base your core self-worth on money, status, image, physical appearance and unrealistic media expectations of what beauty is, the healthier you’ll be.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Beneath a somewhat detached and deceptively calm exterior, you’ll feel rather restless this week. Uranus and the Full Moon imbue you with a sense of urgency and you’re keen to get things moving, especially at home. But gradual, structured modifications are what’s needed and there’s still plenty of background work to complete. It’s also important to do your best to get the balance right between your public life and your private life.

SCORPIO

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

In the lead-up to Saturday night’s Full Moon expect an intensely emotional week when unresolved issues with a loved one could rise to the surface and demand to be addressed. Jealousy, possessiveness or power games could also be cause for concern. With proactive Mars moving through your sign do your best to deal with dramas in a straightforward and honest way.

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Pluto and the Scorpio Full Moon increase your magnetism and you’ve got the power to inspire others and transform your life.

So do your best to find appropriate ways to let off steam, and choose positive and challenging projects to channel your intense energy into. A relationship could also go through a metamorphosis, as you voice your concerns and work through a problem that’s holding you back.

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

your

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

This week do your best to assiduously avoid passivity and procrastination!

With the Full Moon activating your adventure and aspirations zones, it’s time to be courageous and confident as you proactively set ambitious goals and follow your dreams. As Cate Blanchett said: “It’s important to travel and move and have a continual set of experiences so you’ve got more to feed back into your life”.

BEAUTIFUL SIMPLE FAREWELLS WW37438

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Formerly Lady of Grace Funerals

PENRITH | BLUE MOUNTAINS | WESTERN SYDNEY WW37501

57

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

your retirement

When is the right time to consider a retirement village?

It’s difficult to know when the time has come to move into a retirement community...

Margaret Sullivan Thornton Park

Whether to move to a retirement community is one of the biggest decisions you can make. Retirement communities can relieve you from the burden of maintaining a house, so you can spend time doing things you love, and live safely, smartly and worry-free. But how do you know if it’s right for you?

The most important thing to consider is whether the move makes sense to you.

To help you to think through the various aspects of your life that could benefit from the move, we’ve put together the following checklist.

Which of the following statements apply to you?

• You’re 55 or older • You live on your own • It’s getting difficult to clean the house and mow the lawn • Your house and yard are becoming neglected • Some rooms in your house are rarely used • You no longer participate in things that used to interest you • You don’t interact with friends and family on a daily basis

• You don’t get out of the house much • You’ve become less comfortable driving • You’d like more intellectual stimulation • Your family worries about you • You miss social company • You’re starting to slow down • Your health is starting to change • Preparing healthy meals feels like a bother • You’re not really eating well or regularly • Others notice that you’ve lost or gained weight • You rely on others more than before

• You worry that you’re a burden to friends and family • You worry about falling or other medical emergencies • You’re not regularly physically active • There’s no one nearby who would help if the unexpected happened • You worry about your partner if something were to happen to you If six or more of these apply to you, it may be worth considering a move to a retirement community.

Who knows, it might be the best move you’ve ever made!

20–26 May 2019

Volunteers are one of our greatest assets. Join us during National Volunteer Week to celebrate our dedicated volunteers

YOU ARE INVITED! Please join us for morning tea between 10:00am - 11:30am at: Katoomba op shop on Monday 20th May 2/27 Whitton Street, Katoomba

"It started in the hot weather. I'd wear my hat to cut the glare and heat when bringing in donations or collapsing carboard boxes for recycling. Nearly every time I took it off, someone would pick up the hat and take it out into the shop to sell!

I spent considerable time retrieiving numerous hats, so, I stopped bringing in my own hat and borrowed one from the shop on the days I volunteer.

Customers became accustomed to seeing me in a hat - any hat - and that's how it started. It's a little bit of fun, I like to be different, and it's a way of interacting with people by starting a conversation or just putting a smile on someone's dial"

Barbara "the hat lady" - Volunteer, Katoomba op shop

Penrith op shop on Friday 24th May 201-211 High Street, Penrith

58

We look forward to seeing you there!

WW37465

money

How much money do you need in retirement?

Everyone’s retirement circumstances are different...

Alex McKenzie Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

WINE LIST

The two most common questions I’m asked as a financial planner are how much money do I need to retire? Or how much income will I need to live on in retirement?

Obviously the questions are related, the higher the income needed the higher the required retirement savings.

The required income is so wide ranging that clients’ request to “ball park it” are impossible.

In the same week a few years ago, this could not have been demonstrated to me more clearly.

Early in the week I saw a client who had been living on $200 a week, she wasn’t well structured and wasn’t receiving much Centrelink assistance, after restructuring her situation, the minimum income she could receive was about $450 a week. She was mortified and felt she would waste all that extra money. A few days later a second client was trying to reduce his ongoing income requirement to $200,000pa! Most clients fall somewhere in between.

There are a number of calculations that are used as guidelines of income in retirement, ASFA have standards for what they consider modest and comfortable retire-

ments, very subjective terms, however they do elaborate some details of what constitutes modest and comfortable.

There are also some general rule of thumb guidelines, such as requiring 10 times your final income.

Again this is meaningless, some people are spending every cent of their income prior to retirement, others save a substantial portion.

The key is to identify your individual needs and plan accordingly.

Many clients walk in the door knowing that they are approaching retirement and would like advice to allow them to do it.

Problem is, many haven’t thought about what they actually want in retirement; let alone how much that will cost.

A good planner will walk you through what you would like to do, do you want to go on holidays? How often? Where to?

What hobbies do you plan to take up or do more of? How do you intend to spend your time?

Once we determine what we plan to do in retirement we can calculate the costs of this discretionary spending.

We then add in the non-discretionary costs, we usually use previous costs to determine future costs.

We also allow for a buffer for unexpected expenses. This will determine the income we require in retirement.

Once we have the desired income, we have calculations that determine the

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

your

level of funds required to provide this income. We consider factors such as how much risk you’re prepared to take with your investments, your retirement age and life expectancy.

There really is no one size fits all answer to the question “how much do I need to retire” and it really is best to seek advice.

YOUR TASTE. OUR SPECIALTY

JOHN ROZENTALS

$

New look

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lare Valley winemakers Tim Adams and Brett Schutz – and indeed the whole Tim Adams Wines team – are more excited than usual about the release of a new vintage.

They are particularly excited about their 2015 The Fergus for a number of reasons.

Firstly, the blend of Grenache, tempranillo and malbec has produced a medium-bodied luscious wine with good flavour, structure and excellent acid, providing immediate food compatibility and potential for longevity.

Secondly, the company has refreshed

its label design to evolve with the times whilst continuing to reflect the core values of quality, authenticity, regionality, reliability and family.

“Finally, we are thrilled to acknowledge and promote Variety on the back label,” Tim said.

“Part proceeds of all Tim Adams wines go to Variety, who support children who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs.

“To be able to raise awareness and assist such an important charity through joint promotion is extremely satisfying and something we have worked together on for some time.

“Tim Adams Wines have been dedicated wine sponsors of Variety since 2001, raising much needed funds through their event participation, event sponsorship and general involvement.”

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59

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

your

travel

A cruising experience that you will never want to end

FIJ I

Michael Osborne finds that going on a luxury voyage aboard Captain Cook Cruises Fiji is like going off to explore paradise with a group of close friends aboard your own super yacht...

Michael Osborne Content thanks to WTF Media

The cruise staff and crew aboard Captain Cook’s superb ship Reef Endeavour are quite simply the friendliest people I have ever had the fortune to travel with in my time as a travel writer.

I recently went on a seven night voyage to eastern and northern Fiji to explore the cultural and colonial history of the islands.

It was also a cruise featuring great natural beauty including the famed Garden Island of Taveuni and some of the world’s most incredible diving and snorkelling experiences.

However it was the crew who captured everyone’s hearts, giving guests a real taste of the famous Fijian hospitality.

They sang, they danced, they smiled constantly, they welcomed us with a heartening “Bula” and “Vinaka” at every opportunity; they wined and dined us in great style and when it was time to say “goodbye”, tears flowed as they sang the hauntingly beautiful Fijian song of farewell, “Isa Lei”.

Under the guidance of skipper Ian Davison and Cruise Director Carol Crumlin, they took us to isolated, unspoilt places only a few people from around the world ever get to experience.

Reef Endeavour is a top of the range luxury expedition ship, perfectly appointed to provide a unique experience in paradise. It has a large expedition boat which is easy to access on a hydraulic ramp and is simply lowered into the water and away you go. The expedition boat doubles as a glass bottom boat and snorkelling and diving base.

Captain Cook Cruises is known for its quality diving experiences and they have two expert instructors on board.

The reefs of the Somsomo Strait and the surrounding area have some of the best soft coral displays anywhere on Earth and the divers on board my cruise raved about them.

And how refreshing it was after a stunning day of exploring and snorkelling to sit on the back deck, enjoy a cleansing ale with newfound friends and watch the sun go down over the endless South Pacific.

The evening meal was a la carte with a quality selection of Australian and New Zealand wines and plenty of excited banter amongst the guests.

The meals on Captain Cook Cruises are always a highlight and Reef Endeavour well and truly matched the constantly high standards of the cruise line.

Taveuni, the legendary Garden Island, has always been on my list of places to

visit for many years and it didn’t disappoint. We went ashore in the expedition boat and a local tourist bus was waiting to take us to the base for the easy walk to Tavoro Bouma Waterfall and rock pool in the Bouma National Heritage Park on the eastern side of the island.

The cool waters of the pool are a refreshing reward as the waters of the raging falls plunged more than 20m from above, through virgin rainforest. That night we went ashore again for a traditional Fijian welcoming ceremony and concert.

The old Fijian capital of Levuka on Ovalau Island was a highlight of the cruise. It is the best preserved island town in the world and has gained World Heritage status for its Wild West style buildings stretching along Beach St, framed by vertical rainforest clad mountains.

At Savusavu, you visit the capital of Vana Levu, the northern or “second” island of Fiji. Locals say you will never want to leave when you visit, and I could soon see why. It is a beautiful place, with quiet beaches framed by Indian rain trees, hot springs that occasionally turn into geysers, a bustling commercial area and old wharves straight out of a Somerset Maugham South Seas story.

We also visited the former leper colony at Makogai Island, in the heart of the Lomaiviti Group.

I really enjoyed this Captain Cook Cruises adventure. It was relaxing, fun filled, friendly and unique, typical of their excellent itineraries and experiences.

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your

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Rev John Lavender

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As our cats and dogs age, their dietary requirements can change dramatically...

Just as we give special attention to the nutritional needs of puppies and kittens, dogs and cats heading into their senior years require a premium quality pet food to maintain their quality of life.

Once our pets celebrate their seventh or eighth birthday, it is recommended they be transitioned to a premium senior pet food. These special foods meet their changing nutritional requirements, gifting them with longevity and wellness into their senior years.

As our dogs’ age they develop a decrease in energy levels, so it is important that they are eating a well-balanced diet that is lower in calories but still has adequate protein and fat to maintain a healthy body weight and reduce the chance of becoming overweight.

As our cats age, you may notice they become less active and start spending more time indoors. Their metabolism also slows down, making it harder for them to digest higher levels of protein and fat found in kitten and adult cat diets.

Transitioning your cat onto a premium senior diet once they turn seven will be beneficial for managing their overall health.

religion

A good quality senior pet food has many benefits that support your senior pet as they age. Premium quality pet foods will help to: • maintain ideal body condition • maintain healthy skin and coat • provide support for aging joints • support kidney and urinary tract health • support healthy teeth • support digestive health As much as we may wish to deny that our dog is getting older, it’s important to keep an eye out for senior dog health conditions so that you can help improve his quality of life. There are a variety of foods available that can specifically assist in maintaining overall health for senior pets experiencing such conditions as • joint problems • heart problems • kidney problems • dementia • cancer • obesity Greencross Vets recommends regular wellness checks every six months for our senior pets to screen for these common health problems.

Greencross Vet Coreen Ave will be providing special offers for all senior pets until May 31.

Please phone for more information on 4731 3055.

www.gpa.church

Reverend John has given plenty of thought to his column this week ahead of Mother’s Day...

An article by Rick Lewers, the Anglican Bishop of Armidale at www.growingfaith.com.au, highlighted how much we need our mums.

Rick wrote on the influential role that mothers have.

He reflected on the increasing problems facing youth today: lack of self esteem, eating disorders, increasing sexual promiscuity among young children, literacy problems, bullying, gangs, unemployment and more.

Rick went on to say that while being a good mum won’t necessary fix or eliminate these problems, the fact that children are growing in a difficult world, highlights the importance of being a mother to our children.

Mums are actively involved in shaping the future character of our nation by shaping the character of our children.

A mother’s influence is foundational for how children view themselves.

This is big! Mums, never think your work in building and growing your children is unimportant – you are never “just a mother”!

Yet who of us couldn’t also say that being a mum, at times, is tough work?

Despite great pressures; “mums taxi”, balancing responsibilities of home and work and shopping, time with friends, husband, and for herself, it is important that mothers persevere!

In the last chapter of the Bible’s Book of Proverbs, we meet a woman of strength and character.

Her foundation is built on the fact that she centres her life on knowing God and honouring Him in all she does.

Proverbs says: “a woman who honours the Lord should be praised”.

When we look to God and learn from Him, we set ourselves on the best road.

On Mother’s Day, mums, do yourself a favour – if you haven’t already, determine to look to God, honour Him in all you do; learn from Him. You and your family can only benefit from it.

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

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61

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Using LinkedIn to increase your sales Katina Beveridge // Digital Business Solutions Advisor Western Sydney Business Centre | 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

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inkedIn is more than just about making personal and professional connections. As a business owner, this social media platform is also a great sales prospecting tool. It is easy to use, has a wide reach (600 million users), most of all, it’s free!

Use LinkedIn Sales Navigator The first place you should start if you want to boost your sales is the sales navigator tool. It is a great tool that connects buyers and sellers within the LinkedIn platform. This tool uses a unique algorithm to find prospects with needs that are perfectly aligned with what your business offers.

Once you’re given the lead recommendations, you can use Sales Navigator to connect with and offer your product to your prospects. It’s a good place to start in introducing your business and finding new prospects.

Use Groups to engage with prospects People with similar likes, interests, needs, skills, and industries are grouped into Groups on LinkedIn. These groups will let you learn more about the industries you want to target and can be

a good source for prospects. One of the best ways to engage with prospects in a Group is by asking questions. This will build trust and authority while reaching out to the other members of the groups, which can lead to sales inquiries.

Optimise your profile for lead generation When prospects look at your profile, do they know where to go next or what to do after? Turn your LinkedIn profile into a walking advertisement of your business so your lead generation efforts don’t go to waste. When you connect with a prospect, the first thing they look at is your profile. If it is not interesting enough, they’ll probably just skip your connection request and proceed with the next.

Bottom Line LinkedIn is a great platform, not only for being social but for sales as well. It is equipped with a wide range of features to help you connect with the right prospects and to entice these prospects to buy from you. You can start off with the three techniques above to begin your LinkedIn prospecting.

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

Western Weekender

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Replace your doors, drawers, benchtops, splashbacks & appliances.

* Mowing and edging * Bindi and weed eradication * Lawn fertilisation * Watering system installation * General cleanup

* Tree pruning * Hedge trimming * Gutter cleaning * Bushfire hazard reduction * Removal of all clippings

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

AUTO

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o complete their missions, the Men in Black need vehicles with the horsepower for high speed pursuits, the most advanced alien-fighting technology, and sophisticated styling befitting the most exclusive group of secret agents in the galaxy.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

Sport

NETBALL

Another season underway p.69

Cambridge Park netballers Tahleya Eggers, Rachael Coombe and Kellie Tickner celebrating Ribbon of Strength

Women show strength NATHAN TAYLOR

id you know that more than half of Australian women drop out of sport by the time they are 24?

Research conducted by Pantene has discovered that 39 per cent of women stop playing sport due to self-doubt, while others give it away because they fear getting hurt or looking bad.

Despite these statistics, 52 per cent of women recognise that playing sport can improve self-confidence and 55 per cent believe strength is all in the head.

Inspired by these findings, Pantene

D

male-dominated industry and uses her weekly netball games to express herself whilst also keeping fit and healthy.

“I’ve developed many important relationships in my life and established a really strong network with my netball family – that’s what keeps me coming back,” she told the Weekender.

“Because I work in a male-dominated environment I don’t get a lot of exposure to women. Having those strong friendships and connections at netball is something that I really value.”

Unfortunately not all women enjoy the same positive experiences playing sport like Eggers. She said it’s disappointing

has launched the ‘Ribbon of Strength’ campaign, a new initiative to get more Aussie women participating in sport.

Cambridge Park Netball Club recently teamed up with the popular hair care brand, which donated over 200 ribbons to local netballers at Jamison Park last Saturday featuring personal messages from some of Australia’s most successful female athletes.

Cranebrook resident Tahleya Eggers has been playing netball since she was six and has been hitting the courts for Cambridge Park every weekend since.

As a sport scientist for the Parramatta Eels, the 25-year-old works in a very

women give up playing by the age of 24 but she can understand why.

“I understand the pressure of developing your own life with work or study, people start families at that age – it’s a major challenge for us,” she said.

“For me, netball helps overcome some of those challenges.”

At last weekend’s March Past, Eggers’ club Cambridge Park used the ‘Ribbon of Strength’ campaign as their theme. Players wore the inspiring ribbons in their hair and ended up finishing runners-up.

“We wanted to celebrate the women that are at our club as adults and have been there for many years,” she said.

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67

Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

68

WW36276

FRIDAY 17 MAY NRL KICK-OFF: 6.00PM PANTHERS STADIUM

Netball’s spectacular start Annual March Past event signals the beginning of another season at Jamison Park NATHAN TAYLOR

amison Park Netball Complex was a sea of colour last Saturday as thousands of people young and old turned out for the start of the 2019 Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) season.

One of the major highlights of opening day each and every year is the traditional March Past event, which sees netball clubs from across the entire Penrith district come together to celebrate the beginning of the local netball season.

A PDNA tradition for more than 40 years, this year’s March Past was won by Twin Creeks Netball Club, while Cambridge Park Netball Club finished runners-up for the second straight year.

Speaking with the Weekender, PDNA President Joy Gillett said this year’s March Past was the biggest and best one yet.

“It was spectacular, I think the involvement from most of the clubs that play really shone through this year,” she said.

“We had more kids marching and every club made an effort to get involved. It was probably the biggest March Past I can recall, it was great.”

J

Twin Creeks Netball Club won this year’s March Past Twin Creeks won their first ever March Past thanks to a Superheroes theme, while other clubs had ‘Star Wars’ on their mind.

“Because the date was May the 4th, two or three clubs focused on ‘Star Wars’. They had ‘May the 4th Be With You’ banners and ‘Star Wars’ masks,” Gillett said.

“The whole atmosphere of the March Past is changing, now it’s becoming a

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

NETBALL

Netball clubs celebrated all things Star Wars

challenge for clubs to come up with a new theme each year and they all seem to come up with something different.”

Following the popular March Past, thousands of players from 21 local clubs took to the courts to get the 2019 season underway.

Gillett said netball is more popular than ever this year thanks to the State Govern-

ment’s Active Kids rebate, which is opening up the sport to more participants.

“We are substantially up on last year, we have 200 more players registered,” she said.

“This is our largest increase in a long time and I think the subsidy families received from the NSW Government has really helped.”

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Friday, May 10, 2019 « the western weekender

FOOTBALL

Special honour for veteran supporter of local football NATHAN TAYLOR

f you’ve ever visited Jamison Park on a Saturday for children’s sport, there’s a good chance you’ve probably run into Penrith Football Club stalwart Ron Stonestreet.

The 73-year-old has been involved with the local club for more than 50 years, first starting out as a player before turning his attention to coaching and administration.

Last week the South Penrith resident was recognised for his services to grassroots football, winning the Chairman’s Award at the Western Sydney Wanderers Presentation Night.

Nominated by Wanderers members, the Chairman’s Award is dedicated to one of western Sydney’s most impressive and active members of the community.

Unaware he was even nominated for the award until a few days prior, Stonestreet was overcome with emotion when he found out he had won.

“It’s always emotional when you’re recognised but I truly do it all for the kids,” he told the Weekender.

“I’ve been honoured by Football NSW in the past and have been made a Life Member of the Nepean Football Associa-

I

tion and Penrith FC, so it’s always nice to be honoured.”

Stonestreet’s involvement with Penrith FC began more than half a century ago in 1968 when he moved to the area and was encouraged by his next door neighbour to take up soccer.

“I started off as a player and then progressed to coaching,” he said.

“I’ve always been on the committee all these years – I’ve been the President, Registrar and Competition Secretary.

“At the moment I’m handling the club’s equipment and still go down every Saturday to support the club.”

Stonestreet said he’s received plenty of love from the local football community, congratulating him on this latest special honour.

“The emails and support I’ve received since the win have been overwhelming and I’m truly humbled,” he said.

“To hear from fellow Life Members I hadn’t heard from in a while as well as people from outside my club has been nice too.”

Penrith FC Club Secretary Peter Townsend said there is no one more deserving of the Wanderers’ Chairman’s Award than Stonestreet.

“I believe Ron deserves this recognition

Ron Stonestreet won the Western Sydney Wanderers Chairman’s Award for his incredible commitment and loyalty over the past 50 years, not just to Penrith FC, but to sport and the community in general,” he said.

“Ron has spent countless hours over the years, giving his time to help in any way

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he can. Our clubhouse at Jamison Park is even named after him, the Ron Stonestreet Pavilion.”

Stonestreet hopes to continue to be involved with local football for as long as he can.

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Time for a change Wanderers clean house: Players given marching orders NATHAN TAYLOR

ollowing another dreadful season, the Western Sydney Wanderers have farewelled almost a dozen players from this year’s squad.

Oriol Riera, Josh Risdon, Roly Bonevacia, Raul Llorente, Alex Baumjohann, Jaushua Sotirio, Abraham Majok, Marc Tokich, Rashid Mahazi, John Roberts and Giancarlo Gallifuoco will not be returning in season 2019/20 and will have to find new clubs.

Among the club’s high profile departures is Oriol Riera, who departs Western Sydney following 56 appearances and 29 goals.

The Barcelona native won the club’s Golden Boot award in back-to-back years and took out the Wanderers Player of the Year Award and Rod Allen Media Award at the 2018 Wanderers Medal.

While cut short by a mid-season injury while on national team duty at the Asian Cup, Josh Risdon was strong throughout his two seasons at the Wanderers.

Roly Bonevacia joined Western

F

The faces of the fallen: The Western Sydney Wanderers will have a new look next season with a number of players told to find new clubs as Markus Babbel’s side goes in a new direction

Sydney at the start of the 2017/18 season and featured in 55 matches, scoring 10 goals.

Bonevacia was recently voted the Wanderers Members Player of the Year at last week’s Wanderers Medal.

Spaniard Raul Llorente featured in

almost every match in his first season at the club with another 16 appearances during the Wanderers 2018/19 season.

Wanderers coach Markus Babbel had hinted at major changes for next season, with the club desperate to find its way back into the Finals.

Georgievski happy to return to the west The Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the signing of defender Daniel Georgievski for the next two A-League seasons.

Born in the heart of western Sydney, Georgievski played his junior football at Blacktown Demons and Marconi Stallions before securing a move overseas for eight years where he played for Croatian club HNK Šibenik and Bucharest side Steaua București.

Georgievski returned to Australia at the start of the 2014/15 season with Melbourne Victory, winning the Hyundai A-League Championship, Premiership and FFA Cup during his stint at the club.

A Macedonian international, the defender then moved to the Newcastle Jets where he appeared in over 40 matches and won the Joe Marston Medal.

“After 13 years of being away from home, it’s a bit weird returning to the western Sydney region. It’s changed a lot and I’m really looking forward to the adventure coming up,” Georgievski said.

“Hopefully I bring back what the Wanderers had before they left Wanderland and for me personally, I want to help the team get back to the top and be Champions, nothing less.”

He said he was excited to play at Bankwest Stadium next season.

the western weekender » Friday, May 10, 2019

FOOTBALL

Around the grounds BASKETBALL: Penrith’s recent form slump has continued, losing to the Maitland Mustangs 78-74 in Round 8 of Waratah Championship League (WCL) Men’s competition. Lachlan Charlton top scored for the Panthers with 17 points and six rebounds. Meanwhile, Penrith’s WCL Women’s team are still struggling on the court, going down to the Mustangs 58-50. Penrith’s best was Natalia Beaumont, who recorded 16 points and 12 rebounds in the defeat.

Both teams will return home this weekend to battle the Central Coast Crusaders on Saturday before taking on the Canberra Gunners/Nationals on Sunday.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have failed to make it three wins in a row, losing to Macquarie University 82-48 in Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Platinum Division competition. Veteran Phil Aumann was Penrith’s best among a bad bunch, booting two goals. The Rams will look to bounce back this Saturday afternoon when they face the South West Sydney Magpies at Greygums Oval. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes continue to remain winless to start the year, defeated by the Wollongong Saints 36-13 in Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 1 competition. Paige Pirotta and Kate Easthope both scored a goal each in the loss. Penrith will return home this Saturday morning to battle the Camden Cats.

AFL: The GWS Giants have continued their winning ways, belting St Kilda

114-70 in Round 7 of the AFL. The 44-point victory sees the Giants looking very strong in third position on the competition ladder. GWS will travel to Melbourne this weekend to battle Hawthorn on Sunday afternoon.

NETBALL: Giants captain Kim Green didn’t get the 200th game she would have desired, thrashed by the Melbourne Vixens 61-45 in Round 2 of the Super Netball. The Giants were never really in the contest and were down by nine points at half-time. They also failed to take any bonus points away from the tough contest and surprisingly remain in last position on the ladder. The Giants will aim for their first win of the year when they take on the Collingwood Magpies this Sunday at home.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 8 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys enjoyed the bye, while Penrith Brothers went down to the Asquith Magpies 34-20.

In the Sydney Shield competition, St Marys belted the Belrose Eagles 52-0, while Penrith Brothers copped a hiding of their own, smashed by the Asquith Magpies 62-10.

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.

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NRL Coverage: See ‘Extra Time’ pull-out in our centre pages every week!

Revival of the Emus NATHAN TAYLOR

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Friday, May 10, 2019

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year on from being turfed out of the Shute Shield and declared an embarrassment to the competition, the Weekender can reveal the Penrith Emus Rugby Club is planning an audacious bid to return to the Shute Shield competition.

In the coming months, the Emus will be submitting a proposal to NSW Rugby for re-entry into the 2020 Shute Shield competition.

“We definitely want to return to the competition next year, we are working tirelessly to get a proposal together,” Penrith Emus President, Gary McColl said.

“If and when we get back, it’ll be a very different operation to what it was before – it won’t be underfunded.

“By year’s end we are hoping to appoint a coach, general manager, recruit players and even play some exhibition games, to get the whole place fired up for next season.”

The 2019 Shute Shield competition is currently made up of 11 teams, mean-

ing each team has a bye this season.

If Penrith were to return, every team will get a game each week.

“In an email sent to me by the President of Sydney Rugby Union, David Begg, they left a spot open on purpose for the possibility of another western Sydney team to come in,” McColl said.

However, while McColl is optimistic about Penrith’s long-term future, he is wary that things may not go according to plan.

“We needed $5 million and Council was supporting us with $1.25 million.

We were asking $3.25 million from the State Government, however it was knocked back on the simple grounds that the governing body (NSW Rugby) would not support it,” he said.

The Weekender also understands former Penrith Mayor and current Councillor John Thain wrote letters to NSW Rugby boss Andrew Hore as well as Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle about the state of rugby in Penrith that were not responded to.

With potential commercial support, it is possible the club will be re-branded and may drop its traditional Emus name in the future.

President Gary McColl and Secretary Louis McLaughlin

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