nappropriate, not logical and not fit for purpose are just some of the ways that Penrith Councillors have described the State Government’s draft plan to re-zone Orchard Hills.
Last month, the State Government released its Draft Re-zoning Proposal for Orchard Hills
Stage 1, which shows the plan to accommodate the predicted population growth associated with the future Orchard Hills Metro Station.
A Penrith City Council report this week identified a number of issues with the draft proposal including the re-zoning of land within the prestigious The Vines Estate, land to be deferred from the re-zoning, the extent of proposed land acquisition, fragmentation
of land, State Government funding of infrastructure, deliverability of the major Distributor Road, drainage, feasibility and general servicing.
“I’ve had a number of residents reach out to me that roads and other pieces of infrastructure are going directly through the middle of their properties leaving small sections of bits and pieces on either side which really does limit what those landowners are able to
do with those parcels of land
“I think the point … to really have a close look at alignment and fragmentation is going to be core to our response and what we will be looking for from the State Government reworking the proposal.”
Councillor in fine mess
APenrith Councillor is locked in a legal battle with his own Council over parking fines issued during the Local Government Election.
Independent Councillor Glenn Gardiner appeared in Mt Druitt Local Court this week, where he is fighting a fine issued by Penrith City Council for displaying his election posters on his parked vehicle during the campaign.
“The vehicle was parked outside of prepoll and Council claim that is a prohibited activity,” Gardiner said.
“I argue it is not prohibited but in fact is exempt development.”
Gardiner contends his posters were 5,400 square centimetres, they were displayed during the relevant election, the posters were displayed in accordance with the Electoral Act 2017 and the posters were displayed during the relevant election period.
Gardiner was hoping to have the matter dismissed at court this week but will need to wait until his next court date.
“I was hoping to move that the matter be dismissed but that wasn’t possible. I’ll have to wait until a later date to do that,” Gardiner said.
“It’s my opinion that the display of election posters during an election period is exempt development and I tried to have that motion moved today but I was unsuccessful because that was not an option, but I’ll continue along that path throughout the process.”
Gardiner said receiving the fine unfairly disrupted his campaign and is still impacting him now, three months later.
“I am disappointed, it was a disruption to my campaign,” Gardiner said.
Under the State Environmental Planning Policy No 64 – Advertising and Signage Section 33 (2) the display of any poster that contains electoral material in relation to an election is exempt if the poster is no larger than 8,000 square centimetres, is displayed on behalf of a candidate, displayed in accordance with any requirements of the Act under which the election is held and is displayed during the relevant period.
“It took me off the campaign trail for several hours during prepoll and it is a disruption to my life.
“It is three months later and we’re still talking about what happened during the election. Now, it is going to extend into February and then beyond.
“I would say it’s been a length of time and effort that shouldn’t have been required.”
The Weekender understands other candidates were also fined or warned in similar circumstances during the election campaign in September.
Gardiner was successful in being elected to Council at the election, meaning he’s now locked in an awkward legal squabble with his own Council.
The Weekender reached out to Penrith City Council for comment, which responded that they were unable to make a statement regarding the matter.
“As the matter is currently before the court, Council is unable to make any comment,” a spokesperson for Penrith City Council said. The matter will next be in court on Wednesday, February 19. Why Glenn Gardiner is refusing to pay a penalty issued during election campaign
MONDAY 9 DECEMBER – SUNDAY 22 DECEMBER *Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.stclairshoppingcentre.com.au for full terms and conditions. Win a share of $10,000
Simply spend $10 or more at participating retailers at St Clair Shopping Centre and scan the QR Code in Centre to see if you are an instant winner. Plus, you will be entered into the major draw for a chance to win a $500 Gift Card!
If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622
Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Angela Jevdich, Maria Van Den Broek, Callum Gilbert
To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au
Production: Kacey Wilson, Madeline Dantier, Ian Beard
Accounts & Bookings Coordinator: Amanda Coskerie
There’s many ways to get your paper each week – including via email! Visit westernweekender.com.au/getapaper to find out more.
The Western Weekender is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930).
For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.
From The Editor’s Desk
Troy Dodds
@troydodds
Tomorrow just before Midday, the closing credits of ‘The Ray Hadley Morning Show’ will play for the final time, and the end of an era will dawn for Sydney radio.
As Premier Chris Minns said when Ray Hadley announced his retirement a couple of months ago, Sydney is a radio city.
Radio is where stories break, where the big interviews happen, where problems are fixed and where politicians often draw their final breath in terms of career viability.
From the days of Gary O’Callaghan on 2UE, to Doug Mulray on Triple M, the Morning Crew on 2DayFM and modern-day headline grabbers like Ben Fordham and Kyle and Jackie O, Sydney perhaps more than any other city in Australia has been captivated by its radio presenters.
And news talk radio has been at the forefront of radio’s power.
For decades now, AM radio has dominated the ratings – only from time to time has 2GB slipped from the top of the radio pile in the last 20 years.
And a big reason for that has been Hadley. A take no prisoners, fearless broadcaster, Hadley has been an agenda setter in Sydney since he first sat in the chair of 2GB mornings back in 2003.
Not all will be sad Hadley is going. Some have never understood his style, his approach, or forgiven his missteps away from the microphone.
Plenty of politicians and business leaders will be more than happy to not be fearing what may come up between nine and Midday every weekday. There will be collective sighs of relief across the political spectrum.
Like it or not, sometimes you need a champion of aggression to get the job done, and Hadley certainly was that.
Hadley’s departure is about more than just another announcer calling it a day.
It marks a significant shift for media in this city, and certainly a new direction for 2GB.
The pressure is now on Fordham to be the agenda setter, a role he previously shared with Hadley. Mark Levy will take time to find his groove in mornings, but is the logical choice to fill the chair.
But back to Hadley.
In many ways, his voice has played a significant role in my life.
I can remember vividly being in the car on the way back from a birthday lunch for my mum on August 31, 1997 when Hadley announced on air that Princess Diana had died following a car crash in Paris.
At that point Hadley was in the midst of his dominance in the sporting world as host of the Continuous Call Team, in an era where every rugby league game wasn’t broadcast live and the Internet was in its infancy.
Hadley was the voice of growing up as a footy fan – his tones the soundtrack of many Saturday and Sunday afternoons spent listening to rugby league growing up.
“Sometimes you need a champion of aggression to get the job done, and Hadley was certainly that”
There are other poignant moments that stick with me vividly.
His ‘live call’ of a Jet Blue plane with landing gear trouble arriving at Los Angeles International Airport, a type of broadcast repeated last year when he provided up-to-the-minute commentary of a car chase through the streets of Sydney.
His incredible broadcast on the day of the Sydney Siege a decade ago, when the decision was made to suspend usual 2GB programming and keep Hadley on air for most of the day.
It was only by chance that Hadley was still broadcasting at that time of year. He’d stayed on air a week longer than his fellow presenters, who were all on summer break. His broadcast that day was gripping.
Emotional tributes to mates who have been lost along the way, like Peter Frilingos, Bob Fulton and more recently, David Morrow, were particularly emotional.
And if you’ve listened to Hadley long enough, then you probably feel like you’ve watched, or heard, his kids grow up.
From the days they’d phone in to say Merry Christmas during a Christmas Day broadcast, to first days of school, graduations, first jobs, career highlights and grandkids – listeners have followed the journey all the way through.
It has not always been a positive ride.
Hadley has admitted his failings many times, and there’s been the odd apology and legal issue along the way.
And while I’d never minimise the impact some of Hadley’s behaviour has clearly had on colleagues over the years, there’s no doubt that when you’re a fearless broadcaster who rose to prominence during the rough and tumble days of radio in the ‘80s, you’re going to get it wrong sometimes.
Hadley himself says he’s mellowed and grown, a feeling shared by many around him.
And so we reach this point: the end of the line for Hadley, and for one of the country’s most awarded broadcasters.
It’s ironic in many ways that he retires in the same year as John Laws, from whom he stole the morning radio crown more than two decades ago.
Laws kept plying his trade on 2SM long after his glory days and power had faded, and one suspects Hadley did not wish to go the same way.
Whatever may happen in the months and years ahead on Sydney radio, it will never be the same again without Hadley.
9.07am weekdays will not feel the same without The Wolverines’ ‘Murrumbidgee’ playing on the radio speakers, or being told we’ll need a note if we’re not on deck the next day as Hadley bids farewell at 11.59am each day.
The end of an era is an understatement.
Troy Dodds has a commercial arrangement with Nine Radio.
troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au
Police in water safety blitz
The operation will run until the end of January, and police will spread out their visits to the waterway.
The Nepean River is a great spot for a weekend on the boat, a dip to cool off, or a jet ski to get the heart pounding – and local police are determined to ensure this summer is a safe one on our popular waterway.
Nepean Police Area Command Detective Inspector Daniel Clements said Operation Riptide is an initiative that’s commenced this year in conjunction with Marine Area Command.
“We’ve got boats, we’ve got jet skis, we’ve got kayaks, we’ve got a whole range of diverse usage of the river, so it’s all about everyone having the chance to enjoy the river in a safe environment,” Clements explained.
Clements said the river isn’t unsafe when unpatrolled, but reckless behaviour can occur, and there’s a range of consequences for those who put themselves and others at risk.
“There’s warnings that could lead to infringement notices, and then there’s some potential… to go to court,” Clements said.
“It’s all about educating some people that are potentially new to the river and ensuring there’s a safe environment for everyone.”
Meanwhile, when authorities aren’t in attendance, river users can take responsibility for their own safety.
“There’s a lot we can do on the river, like never ever go boating or fishing without a life jacket,” swim expert Julie Sheldrake said.
“Even a strong swimmer can get into trouble, especially if they’re washed off rocks or find themselves in a boating accident.”
More advice includes swimming with a buddy, supervising children, and sticking to non-alcoholic beverages around water to prevent incidents.
“Once you’re already in that situation there isn’t a lot that can be done because the water is often stronger than our own efforts to stay above it,” Sheldrake explained.
“However, there are such things as survival strokes like side strokes, there is also survival back float to try to conserve energy.
“I think that would be my biggest advice, to conserve energy and hopefully help will be there before the energy runs out.”
If an emergency occurs on the river this year, don’t hesitate to call 000.
Police will be out and about on the Nepean River this summer.
ALLY HALL
LAW and ORDER
Police Snapshot Legal Matters
St Marys: Court date for duo caught breaking into property
Two people have been arrested after being caught on CCTV breaking into a property.
At about 1.30pm on Sunday, December 8 a 70-year-old Willmot man and a 42-year-old Niagara Park man have attended an industrial complex in St Marys.
They cut the padlock to a gate and entered the property at the location.
Once they have entered, through CCTV on-site security was alerted to the fact that people were illegally there. Security contacted police who arrived a short time later.
The pair were arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station, where they were both charged. They will both appear in Penrith in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, December 17.
Penrith: Wild afternoon brawl ends in arrest
A random brawl at a licenced venue ended with one man glassed and another arrested.
At 4.30pm on Saturday, December 7 two men, who were known to each other have both attended a licenced premises in Penrith separately.
The 36-year-old Erskine Park man and a 26-year-old Blacktown man have exchanged words with each other. The 26-year-old was unsure what the 36-year-old was referring to during their conversation but continued into the venue.
The 26-year-old sat in the outdoor area and had beers with some friends. The 36-year-old was making gestures and comments to the 26-year-old the whole time.
At 5.30pm the 26-year-old went up to the bar and ordered drinks. The 36-year-old walked up behind him and pressed his own face into the 26-year-old’s head and began making threats towards him. The 26-yearold turned around to face the 36-year-old who was holding a schooner glass. Further words were shared between the men before the 36-year-old bent down to pick up an empty schooner glass.
The 36-year-old has then headbutted the 26-year-old who retaliated by attempting to punch the 36-year-old a number of times.
The 36-year-old, still holding two schooner glasses, swung his arm towards the face of the 26-year-old which resulted in the glasses he was holding shattering in the face of the 26-year-old causing a laceration on his face.
The 36-year-old then threw the 26-year-old to the ground before the men were separated.
The 26-year-old attended Penrith Police Station a short time later. Police have then
COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE
attended the licenced premises. A short time later Police attended the house of the 36-yearold where he was arrested and charged. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, January 16.
Glenmore Park: Man arrested after drink driving
A man has been charged after being caught drink driving.
At 10.50pm on Friday, December 6 police set up a stationary random breath testing site on the Glenmore Parkway in Glenmore Park.
Police stopped a vehicle and had a conversation with the driver, a 55-year-old Ultimo man.
The man was breath tested which returned a positive result.
The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station for further breath analysis which returned a positive reading of 0.073.
The man’s licence was suspended on the spot. The man will appear in Penrith Local Court on a later date.
Penrith: Police assaulted over shoe drama
A woman has assaulted police after they tried to take her shoes from her.
At 10.40am on Thursday, December 5 a 38-year-old Glenmore Park woman was in custody at Penrith Police Station for an unrelated matter.
The woman had her shoes removed for safety reasons.
After the woman was fingerprinted, she has begun to pick up her shoes and tried to take them into the cell with her. An officer attempted to remove the shoes from the woman, but she was trying to keep them.
A struggle has ensued where the woman became very violent and punched an officer in the head. Eventually, she was restrained on the ground by other officers.
The woman was returned to the cell and further charged.
Londonderry: Child trampled by horse taken to hospital
On Sunday, December 8 the Mounties Care CareFlight Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance after a young child was trampled by a horse in Londonderry and sustained injuries.
CareFlight’s specialist doctor and NSW Ambulance paramedics provided critical care to the child on scene before he was transported via road ambulance accompanied by CareFlight’s doctor to Westmead Children’s Hospital in a serious but stable condition.
WITH DANIEL MCKINNON
INSURANCE COMPANY DEMAND LETTERS
One of the most regular inquiries we get is from people who have received letters from insurance companies seeking payment of a sum of money from them in relation to some form of accident or incident that occurred. Usually this is a motor vehicle accident.
The letter is usually standard in form and says something like:
“We are the insurance provider for person X.
We understand that our insured and you were involved in a motor vehicle accident on Y.
Based on the version of events our insured person has provided us, we have formed the view that you are at fault with respect to the incident.
We intend to recover our insured’s loss and damage from you in the amount of $Z.
Please pay the sum to us within time period A to avoid further recovery action.”
The particular wording of the letter will change from insurer to insurer, however the sentiment is the same.
That is, where an insurer has had to pay a claim to someone they have insured they will try to recover the relevant sum of money from the other party if they can make an argument that the other party is at fault.
The problem is, insurers often base their claims against third parties on very little actual evidence.
Usually the evidence on which they rely is a version of events provided to them by their insured person. Sometimes they will ask for a handwritten diagram.
The insurer will usually not have statements from independent third party witnesses or CCTV or anything that actually substantiates what their insured person has recounted to them.
The other reason that this is a problematic approach is because quite often it is not straightforward who is at fault in a car accident.
Whether the accident occurs on a road, or
in a car park, or whatever the case may be in the absence of footage and/or third party witnesses it is difficult to tell who had right of way, or breached a certain road rule, or what precise circumstances led to the collision or accident.
If you have received a letter like this and you do not consider that you are at fault you should ask the insurer to provide what actual evidence they have supporting their claim. Their insured’s version of events may not be enough to convince a Court (if the matter was litigated) that you are liable.
You should see if the insurer has any third party witnesses or video footage of the incident. Quite often the insurer will ask you to put to them in writing your version of events. You are not required to do this.
If the insurer is seeking to make a claim against you it is their job to prove their claim. There may be some circumstances where you have a piece of vital evidence that will prove unequivocally that you are not at fault. You should however be aware that you are not compelled to provide anything to the insurer unless formal litigation commences and you are issued with a Subpoena or some other Court Order requiring you to make such a disclosure.
Quite often if two parties to a collision have different versions of events and there is no way to determine unequivocally which version is correct the insurer who is pursuing you will realise they are unlikely to succeed in an action against you in Court and the claim will go away.
To be clear, we are not suggesting that any person should manufacture or make up a version of events to avoid a legitimate claim, however, if you do not think you are at fault then you do not have to simply pay the insurer because they have sent you a letter of demand without knowing their case against you in the form of whatever evidence they have that they intend to rely upon with respect to the claim.
BOQ FUMBLES ONLINE BANKING UPGRADE
Bank of Queensland (BOQ) is facing more criticism from its customers after an upgrade to its outdated Internet Banking over the weekend.
The troubled bank finally completed an overhaul of its Internet Banking look and feel after two previous attempts failed.
But customers have vented their frustration at the upgrade on social media.
“It’s worse than it was before,” one Facebook user said.
“I can’t understand it. It’s so weird and confusing,” another said.
BOQ is currently buying back its branches.
Back to the drawing board
Residents have also reached out to McLean about the current line going through The Vines that only plans for parts of the estate to be re-zoned.
“The current line that’s been put through the middle of The Vines is totally inappropriate, anyone who has been for a drive through there would know it’s obviously an inappropriate boundary to be drawing,” McLean said.
“It’s not logical. Our draft response is really clear that the State Government needs to look at where that boundary has been put.
“I know there are a range of opinions in the community, and it may be a sensitive issue, we do require a lot more consultation. The final plan cannot have that boundary where it is, it’s an inappropriate use of our land.”
Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler
also expressed his concern over the current proposed boundary going through The Vines.
“The boundary for the re-zoning is illogical, it cuts through The Vines, and it leaves in question a whole lot of area to the south of The Vines which is open space and could be used for a number of matters…” Fowler said.
“It also impacts on a
number of properties within The Vines estate, and I think the department should either include the whole of The Vines estate in stage 1 or exclude the whole of The Vines estate in stage 1.”
Both Fowler and fellow Councillor John Thain also spoke strongly against the current cost plan for the distributor road that will service the area.
“I think the smartest thing
the department could have done is spend some time with our officers in consultation and get the officers to get the master planning right for that area, particularly when it’s our city and we know that area particularly well,” Thain said.
“The thing that particularly concerns me… is that the distributor road which connects two state roads, it connects Mamre Road, and it
connects The Northern Road, should be a state road.
“There is no way that should be cost shifted onto Council and I think we strongly oppose that because it is a cost shifting exercise that we cannot do.
“It would cost Council a significant amount of money and our ratepayers over the years.
“I think they really need to go back to the drawing board, have a look at what they’ve put forward, start more consultation with our own officers and try and get it right because at the moment it is not fit for purpose.”
Fowler had a simple message for those behind the draft proposal.
“We know our community, we know what our community wants, unfortunately in my humble opinion the Department of Planning does not know our community and less so do the people working at the department know our community,” Fowler said.
“That can be overcome if
they listen to council officers and listen to this council but unfortunately their definition of consultation is not what we as a council believe consultation should be.
“The message to the NSW State Government is stick to strategic stuff and let the operational stuff remain with Council because we know how to do it, and we do it well.”
Councillors agreed to write to the State Government to air its concerns, and to strongly urge the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to increase their direct engagement with the community and landowners prior to the closing of the exhibition period and if necessary, extend the exhibition period to ensure that the consultation is done properly.
Council officers will continue to work on the submission while Councillors continue to engage with the community about their perspective on the proposal.
Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler. Photo: Melinda Jane. John Thain.
Photo: Mitchell Hearne.
Hollie McLean.
Photo: Mitchell Hearne.
Contact Us
Administration
Queen Street Centre,
Contact Centre Open
Council Briefs
● Council has completed the second stage of an upgrade at Jim Anderson Park, Werrington Downs. A range of new penrith.city/playspaces
portal at my.penrith.city
Services
Waste Services
Illegal Dumping
● will occur.
F Meeting Dates
penrith.city
penrithcouncil
penrith.city/christmasservices
● Penrith collection.
Public Notice
Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993 - Proposed Licence on Community Land
Local Government Act 1993, notice is
Jordan Springs Perpetual
council@penrith.city
Fiona.waites@penrith.city
Integrated Development
• Lot 6 DP 1344; Lot 7 DP 1344; Lot 9 DP 1344; Lot 2 DP 1302831; and Lot 8 DP 1344, 2 Kingswood Road, Orchard Hills
penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from
cupboard prize
Renowned Aboriginal artist Bobbi Lockyer has unveiled her latest home décor collection for 2024, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with contemporary design. Each piece in this collection celebrates the breathtaking beauty of Australia’s landscapes while honouring Indigenous artistry through Bobbi’s distinctive and vibrant work.
The Bobbi Lockyer 2024 Home Collection features a carefully curated range of items designed to bring meaning and cultural richness into any space. In a special collaboration with Haven Candles, the
What did Frosty’s girlfriend give him when she was mad?
The cold shoulder.
Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.
collection also includes a piece that combines art with sensory experiences, allowing people to explore Indigenous artistry in an accessible, modern form.
Bobbi Lockyer’s 2024 Home Collection is a celebration of culture, land, and artistry, offering everyday Australians the opportunity to bring the richness of Indigenous design into their homes.
There’s terrific items like the Bobbi Lockyer Artificial Plant, the Bobbi Lockyer Ceramic Planter, the Bobbi Lockyer Decorative Tray, the Bobbi Lockyer 4x6 Inch Photo Frame and the Bobbi Lockyer Signature Soy Blend Candle.
The Bobbi Lockyer Home
Collection is available at select Woolworths stores, and is priced between RRP $5 and RRP $20. For more information, visit www.woolworths.com.au.
The Weekender has three Bobbi Lockyer prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com. au with ‘Bobbi’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, December 18 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender. com.au or at Weekender reception.
paceway winners lucky
Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender Club members can pick up a free specially numbered
bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.
Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-
way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week!
This week’s lucky winners are: 0342, 0697, 0621.
Tell us exactly where this week’s featured I Spy image is located in Penrith and you could win! Email competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with your answer for your chance to win two movie tickets. Our winner will be notified by email. Entries close each Wednesday at 5pm.
LAST WEEK’S ANSWER
The shop with all the Grinches in the window is Donna’s Flower Shop, located at High Street, Penrith.
The decision not to relocate SBS to western Sydney, where most of its audience is based, is a poor one. Instead the broadcaster will stay on the leafy north shore.
Well done to everyone who is volunteering during the Christmas season. Whether you’re packing hampers, running events or feeding the hungry, good on you!
Discover the ultimate day of excitement in Penrith with this dynamic prize package from iFLY Downunder and FREAK VR. Including an iFLY Basic for Two and FREAK VR Basic Shoot and Roam for Two, valued at $356, this experience combines the rush of indoor skydiving with the immersive world of virtual reality – perfect for adventure lovers looking to double their thrills.
Start at iFLY Downunder, Australia’s largest indoor skydiving facility, where you’ll experience the exhilarating sensation of free-fall in a state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel. Located
cupboard prize BONUS
conveniently in Penrith, iFLY Downunder offers a safe, fully guided skydiving experience that lets you feel the pure excitement of flight, whether you’re a firsttime flyer or a seasoned skydiver.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you and your companion will soar, weightless and completely in the moment. Next, dive into a virtual adventure at FREAK VR, also in Penrith.
The Basic Shoot and Roam package for two delivers a high-energy VR experience. Using cutting-edge technology, FREAK VR transports you to another dimension, with a range of action-packed games that allow you and your partner to roam, explore, and tackle exciting virtual challenges together.
This prize is the perfect combination of real and virtual thrills, all within Penrith, making it an ideal gift, date experience, or family adventure. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your sense of excitement and immerse yourself in Penrith’s best adventures.
The Weekender has an iFLY and FREAK VR prize pack to give away. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Adventure’ in the subject line.
Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, December 18 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender. com.au or Weekender reception.
Anniversary!
Denis and Florence Grange will celebrate their 70th Wedding Anniversary on 18th December. They met at a Manchester dance hall, where Denis had moved from Dublin for work.
Married in Manchester, they faced tough times but stayed strong, raising four children before emigrating to Australia in 1969, where they welcomed their fifth child. Hard work and dedication helped them buy a home and support their family.
They enjoyed cruises, trips to England and Ireland, and time at their Sussex Inlet caravan. Founding members of the Gaels club,
Killer cats put on notice
Invasive Species Council calls for greater rules around cats in our community
Cats have been identified as one of the biggest killers of native animals in Penrith, new data reveals.
Analysis from the Invasive Species Council has found that roaming pet cats are some of the state’s biggest killers, estimated to have killed over 62 million native animals in Sydney this year.
In Penrith there is an estimated total of 33,092 cats who have been estimated to have killed 2,105,920 native animals in the past year.
Advocacy Director for the Invasive Species Council Jack Gough explained the high number of deaths are due to cats being allowed to roam free.
“In a place like Penrith you’ve got over 33,000 estimated pet cats and every roaming pet cat kills on average about 110 native animals every year. Those numbers add up very quickly to an enormous toll on our wildlife,” Gough said.
“It’s one of the reasons people aren’t seeing blue tongues under their doorstep, people aren’t getting frogs in their garden and a number of birds aren’t showing up in suburbs anymore.
“The estimate of the impact of roaming cats per square kilometre in the suburbs is about 30-50 times higher than feral cats in the bush.
That is because we feed these cats, and we keep those numbers a lot higher than they normally would be. This is a significant issue, and it is something that needs action.”
Collectively, roaming pet cats kill 546 million animals per year of which 323 million are native animals, and these deaths are likely to keep increasing unless more action is taken to mitigate the risk, Gough said,
“Many people don’t think their cat is killing wildlife but 70 per cent of people let their cats out and over 80 per cent of those cats will hunt and kill wildlife,” Gough said.
“The numbers that we have released suggest that just in the Greater Sydney area over the next four years we could see a quarter of a billion of our native animals – mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs – killed by roaming pet cats.
“That is a toll that needs to stop and it something leadership like Chris Minns and the State Government can go a long way to changing.”
In NSW local Councils do not have power to implement rules for cat containment, but the Invasive Species Council is urging the govern-
ment to allow Councils to implement 24-7 cat containment rules.
“This would be a win for cats as well as for native animals,” Gough said.
“Cats that are kept safely at home live up to 10 years longer than cats that are roaming because they avoid being hit by cars, getting into fights and getting diseases. We need rules from the top to make it clear and then we need individual pet owners to take responsibility to keep their cats refined to their property.”
Your thoughts? Email your views to news@ westernweekender.com.au.
Roaming cats are the biggest killers of native species.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
Roaming cats are an issue in Penrith, experts say.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
“Always did what he believed in”: Tributes to Kevin Crameri
years,” Mayor Todd Carney said.
After over five decades of service as a Councillor, Kevin Crameri has been recognised for his dedication to the community.
78-year-old Crameri started his political career in 1974 and served for 35 and a half years on Penrith City Council.
During that time, he served as Mayor three times in 1996-97, 2009-10 and 2010-11 as well as Deputy Mayor in 1988-89.
Crameri ran second on fellow Independent Glenn Gardiner’s ticket in this year’s Local Government Election due to his ongoing ill health and was not re-elected.
He was this week honoured by the current crop of Penrith City Councillors who commended his years of service to the Penrith community.
“Despite battling cancer Kevin continued to actively represent the North Ward, demonstrating his commitment to the community he has lived in for over 70
“He also successfully campaigned for improved road accessibility in rural areas... On behalf of my Councillor colleagues and Council staff I want to thank Kevin for his decades of service to our great city.
“Kevin, you have truly left your mark on this community and this Council. Congratulations on everything you have achieved in your career, and I wish you all the very best for the future.”
Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler also shared his congratulations to Crameri.
“I’ve always found Kevin
to be most interested in his community and I’ve always found Kevin to be one of the best advocates for his community over those number of years that I’ve served with him,” Fowler said.
“Kevin always did what he believed in, and he did what he thought was right and what he did do he did it with a passion and a dedication which is a great credit to him, and he served his community well.”
Long-time Councillor John Thain said: “If he believed in something for his community, he would pursue it and he was like a dog with a bone, he would just not let go.”
Anew fast food restaurant has been given the green light in Glenmore Park.
Last week, Penrith City Council approved a Development Application (DA) for a new McDonald’s to come to Glenmore Park at 90-98 Glenmore Ridge Drive as part of the Glenmore Village shopping centre development.
The new $3.4 million Macca’s is set to operate from 6am-10pm each day, though will be permitted to operate from 5am until Midnight for an 18 month trial period.
The new Macca’s is expected to generate over 100 new jobs in the community.
“The employment opportunities offered by opening a McDonald’s store in Glenmore Park has obvious economic benefits to
members of the local business community, but the social benefits should not be underestimated,” documents attached to the Development Application said.
“Typical to the food and beverage industry, McDonald’s offer employment for both permanent and casual staff on a full-time and part-time basis with the creation of around 120 new local jobs at the store.”
The new restaurant will have a dual lane drive-through with capacity for 17 cars as well as two waiting bays.
As part of the DA a traffic report was conducted to understand what impact the new restaurant will have on the Glenmore Park community.
It found traffic generated by McDonald’s will have its greatest effects during the weekday afternoon peak period when it combines with traffic from the rest of Glenmore Village.
Kevin Crameri has been recognised for his years of service to Penrith City Council. Photo: Melinda Jane.
What the new McDonald’s store will look like.
CHATE
More frontline workers to help victims of violence in Penrith
The Hawkesbury, Nepean and Blue Mountains are set to receive more frontline workers for victims of family, domestic and sexual violence.
There will be an additional eight full-time equivalent workers employed across a number of different support services to meet increasing demand, with another worker expected to come online shortly.
In Penrith, some of the workers will be placed at Platform Youth, The Haven, DV West and Penrith Women’s Health Centre.
Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said she was pleased to have the extra frontline workers for the area.
“We identified the need for these workers prior to the last election and I’m pleased they are being placed with our local services,” Templeman said.
Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Justine Elliot said the additional frontline
workers are crucial for victim-survivors to be able to access the support they need.
“These additional workers will increase the availability of specialised, trauma-informed support to victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence,” Elliot said.
“The services provided by these workers are essential to helping victim-survivors take that critical first step towards recovery and healing.”
Through the National Partnership on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses 2021-2027, the Federal Government is planning to provide over $48 million over four years to 25-26 for 148.4 full-time equivalent frontline support workers across NSW.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family, domestic or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
Iconic brand gone for good as major retailer confirms closure
Katies – a brand first launched in 1956 – will shutter in Australia, while dozens of other retail stores in the Mosaic Brands Group will also close.
All 80 Katies stores will close their doors by the middle of next month.
The Katies in Westfield Penrith has already closed its doors.
“The decision was made following a review of the performance of Katies as a brand,” a statement from the Receivers and Managers of Mosaic Brands Group said.
An additional 80 stores across the Millers, Rivers, and Noni B brands will close by mid-January.
“Impacted employees and landlords will be notified as soon as possible,” the statement said.
“The decision to undertake the store consolidation program has not been taken lightly.”
Approximately 480 store employees will be impacted by the planned closures which are due to occur by mid-January 2025. It has not been confirmed which Millers, Rivers and Noni B stores will close.
All three have stores in Penrith.
expert ser vicing and repairs for all brands, and o er a wide selection of your favourite products, from brands like Bushranger, Cox, Wright , Scag, Greenworks, Shindaiwa, Rato, Jakmax and Prokut . Open Monday to Friday until 5pm. Most repairs done in 2 days.
Assistant Minister for Social Services and the Prevention of Family Violence Justine Elliot with Susan Templeman.
Katies, once a regular in shopping centres across Australia, will soon disappear.
TROY DODDS
STATUS QUO NEVER ACCEPTS THE THE WEST
So Vote For This...
When this little beer came onto the scene in 2019, there was not hing like it around. It was hazy. It was juicy. It was fruity. It was exactly as it should be, completely unexpected.
somet hing so dif ferent, that was brewed in Emu Plains, would be voted t he best beer in the countr y for the last two years
panther blood in us? All we can think is how good it would be to win it again.
anot her three-peat in the trophy cabinet of Wester n Sydney.
Push to shop local
Small businesses need your support this Christmas period
With less than two weeks until Christmas, Penrith residents are being urged to shop local for their last-minute gifts.
As tempting as it may be to hunt for a bargain online, locals are being encouraged to support small businesses where they live.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said small businesses are the backbone of the local economy and their success is crucial for the vibrancy and sustainability of our city centres.
“By choosing to shop local this Christmas, customers can enjoy a variety of benefits including personalised service, unique products and the satisfaction of knowing that their purchases directly contribute to the wellbeing of the local community,” he said.
“Shopping local is more than just a transaction, it’s about building relationships and supporting local businesses who employ local people. When you shop locally, you’re helping to create jobs and boost the local economy. Every purchase makes a difference.”
Carney, who recently joined Penrith MP Karen
to launch a shop local campaign, said surprising gifts were waiting to be discovered in Penrith and St Marys.
“You’d be surprised how many of the things we need are available locally – either made in the area or supplied and sold by businesses that employ local residents,” Carney said.
In addition to shopping, Penrith and St Marys are currently decked out with decorations and home to a variety of local cafés, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Penrith City Council has selected a contractor to complete roof repairs at Regentville Small Hall and St Clair Recreation Centre.
Chips Property Trade Services from Wetherill Park have been selected to complete the repairs, which will cost Council $207,746. Regentville Small Hall and St Clair Recreation Centre both need the extensive repairs to prolong the lifecycle of the buildings.
– Emily Chate
COUNCIL BOOSTS BIN COLLECTIONS
Additional waste collections and extra resources will be implemented in Penrith over the festive season.
The additional services include extra bin collections, two weeks of recycling dropoffs and a real Christmas tree drop-off day.
The two weeks of extra bin collections will commence from Wednesday, December 25, and continue until Tuesday, January 7, including public holidays, where residents can place all three bins at the kerbside for collection on their scheduled collection day each week.
Residents can also take advantage of the special recycling drop-off days at The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington. These will be held from 3pm to 6pm on weekdays from Monday, December 16 to Friday, December 27 (excluding Public Holidays).
The real Christmas tree drop-off on Saturday, January 11 will be held at The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington from 10am until 2pm.
McKeown
Mayor Todd Carney and State Penrith MP Karen McKeown are encouraging people to shop local.
Need for speed: Why the west needs rail overhaul right now
Now or never: Leaders in western Sydney are urging the Federal Government to get on the right track when it comes to high-speed rail.
High-speed rail stations in Parramatta and at the new Western Sydney International Airport must be a priority, according to a growing alliance of government and industry leaders in the west.
Due to present a business case for investment in stage one of a highspeed rail link from Newcastle to Sydney by the end of the year, the federal High Speed Rail Authority has suggested the key Sydney interchange will be Central Station.
Stations at Parramatta and Western Sydney Airport will only be considered as part of a future stage.
But local representatives believe that’s not good enough, saying the western Sydney stops must be included in stage one – it’s “now or never”.
Tom Nance, Western Sydney University’s Director for Partnerships and Advocacy, said western
Sydney’s inclusion in stage one of the high-speed rail project is of primary importance.
“High speed rail needs to serve the whole of Sydney, not just the east. Due to its geographic and strategic location, Parramatta must be the priority, not an afterthought,” Nance said.
“If the government does not recognise this, it will not just be another slap in the face to the residents of
western Sydney, it will be a wasteful own goal at a time when voters are crying out for infrastructure that unlocks connectivity and economic opportunity.”
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Martin Zaiter said Central Station was no longer central to Sydney’s growing population.
“It’s madness to build infrastructure of the future around an incredibly outdated view of where
greater Sydney lives and where the jobs of tomorrow are being created,” Zaiter said.
“If all levels of government are serious about amplifying Sydney’s presence to that of a New York or London, they need to be thinking beyond the eastern CBD. Global cities are connected north to south and east to west - and unless Sydney is too, we’ll never reach that status.
“High speed rail has the potential to turbocharge the economic growth of western Sydney and link millions of visitors a year landing at the new airport to the heart of Greater Sydney and beyond – but only if we are part of the plan from day one.”
Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue CEO, Adam Leto, warned that the Federal Government couldn’t afford to be short-sighted when it comes to planning for highspeed rail.
“The Federal Government is faced with a golden opportunity to not only re-write high-speed rail’s failed history in this country, but also show that it is forward-thinking and in-tune with how our city is growing,” Leto said.
The Property Council of Australia’s Western Sydney Regional Director Ross Grove also backed calls for western Sydney to be considered in the coming business case for highspeed rail.
“Western Sydney deserves to feature in any future rail plan and the city’s commercial prominence, pro-growth orientation, and track record of delivery position it well to make the most of a once-in-acentury investment.”
DEAR WEEKENDER
NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU
SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750
Parking mayhem ahead
I am writing to express my deep concern over the removal of the ticketed parking system and shuttle bus service for Penrith Beach, or ‘Pondi’ (Weekender December 5). Firstly, the ticketed parking system that was successfully implemented last year allowed for a controlled, organised flow of vehicles, reducing gridlock and ensuring that people could safely access the beach without endless waiting. It was a system that worked. Yet, this year, the government has opted for a first-come, first-served approach for the beach’s limited parking spaces – an approach that is not only impractical, but highly dangerous. Cars will likely be backed up for long distances, blocking intersections, and creating gridlock that will be difficult, if not impossible, to manage. Worse still, emergency vehicles will struggle to navigate this bottleneck in the event of an emergency, putting lives at risk. What is even more concerning is the safety of pedestrians, particularly families with young children. With the congestion expected to be nothing short of horrendous, it will be incredibly difficult for people to safely cross roads or find safe spots to park, miles from the official car park. This is not just an inconvenience –it’s a safety issue that could lead to preventable accidents and injuries. Immediate action is needed to ensure that access to the beach is properly managed and that the traffic flow on the one access road does not create a dangerous situation for everyone involved. Secondly, I would like to express my great concern over the proposed removal of the shuttle bus service that provided muchneeded transport between Penrith Train
Station and Penrith Beach. Last year, the shuttle bus allowed many people to enjoy the beach and cool off during the intense summer heat, especially for those who may struggle with the expense of a taxi or simply did not have access to their own car. It was a thoughtful initiative that served the community well, offering a much-needed respite from the oppressive heat for families, elderly residents, and anyone who relies on public transport. Unfortunately, the shuttle bus has now been removed, likely as part of a cost-saving measure. While I understand the need for financial prudence, I believe this decision overlooks the essential role the service played in supporting those who rely on public transportation for their daily needs, especially during the hottest months. Public services like these enhance the community’s wellbeing and should not be so easily discarded in the name of saving money.
JEFF PEGG, JORDAN SPRINGS
Government wrong on bus call
The State Government constantly says that Penrith Beach is about equity, about giving people a fair go in this part of Sydney. Extraordinary then that they’ve also said, if you don’t have a car, don’t bother coming to the beach. Can you believe that in 2024, a Labor Government is actually saying, we won’t provide you any transport options, you must drive and just try your luck. If you do not have a car, don’t bother. Bring back the shuttle bus and stop embarrassing yourself. What a terrible call from a government that always comes up short.
STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK
An artist’s impression of a high-speed train.
Martin Zaiter said it’s “now or never” for high-speed rail.
ELLIE BUSBY
Your 2025 Bin Collection Calendar is Now Available
It’s easier than ever to stay up to date with your bin collection days with our electronic calendars.
You can get yours by either:
• Downloading our Penrith Waste Champion app where you can get real-time
• at penrith.city/thewastespot
• penrith.city /bincalendars
Additional Kerbside Bin Collections for Christmas and New Year’s Wednesday 25 December 2024 – Tuesday 7 January 2025 in the
and
bin?
and the
Artwork of remembrance
Local artist brings people together to reflect on lives lost through road tragedies
ALLY
Local artist Delwyn Paech unveiled an emotional artwork on World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims last month, and it’s now a permanent fixture at Grace’s Place in Doonside.
She worked with women from the Road Trauma Support Group NSW to create a mosaic called ‘Ripples of Unity’, honouring the lives of those lost on NSW roads and symbolising the ripple effect of each death.
The creative process began in May when Paech ran a workshop to bring joy to those suffering a loss.
“We had a workshop where the ladies placed different coloured tiles in the design to represent family members affected by road trauma,” Paech explained.
“We had a fun day at the workshop, but for me, the inclusion of special tiles and speaking with some of the ladies really brought home the severity of the pain that they were going through.
“Life would never be the same for these ladies, they lost someone
who they will never hear their voice again, never celebrate birthdays or Christmas with again, never see them smile or hear them call their name again.”
The project was sobering, but Paech said it was very worthwhile.
“It took six months to make, and I felt like I’d been on a six-month
mission by the time I finished it all, and that was a really good feeling,” Paech stated.
“I knew that I was helping people while I was doing it, I knew that it was very meaningful, and I felt like I had contributed to something that’s far beyond just me.”
“It’s an artwork made by the people, for the people,” Paech said.
“As Christmas approaches, it’s a timely reminder to be safe on the roads. Have a plan B in place and use it to get yourself and others home safe to their families.”
Family members can now visit the mosaic on Doonside Road and remember their loved ones.
Olympians celebrated, while Fox receives Penrith’s top honour
Penrith Council has formally awarded Jessica Fox OAM the Key to the City, following her stunning successes over many years.
The honour has been bestowed just a handful of times in the past.
Fox’s achievements, and the accomplishments of the City’s Olympians and Paralympians, were recognised at a civic ceremony on Tuesday afternoon.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the City honoured Fox for her outstanding sporting achievements, her contributions as an ambassador for Penrith, and as an advocate for all athletes in sport.
“The Key to the City is the highest honour awarded to individuals or organisations in our City. It’s only awarded in exceptional circumstances, to acknowledge an outstanding achievement and contribution,” he said.
“Jess is the most successful individual medallist in Australian Olympic history. She is the world’s most successful paddler and
renowned as the greatest individual paddler of all time.
“On and off the water – Jess demonstrates the best values of Penrith – positive and adventurous, while remaining grounded and proud of her roots.
“We commemorate her outstanding achievements and contributions to a sport and community, that admires her.”
The civic ceremony also honoured 17 inspirational athletes who are connected to Penrith – either through birth, residency, school, training base or club.
“To all our athletes – you have been outstanding ambassadors for our City and your sports,” Carney said.
“You have inspired a new league of future champions and encouraged others to get active and reach for their dreams. And you have all instilled immense pride in the people of Penrith and western Sydney.”
Tuesday’s event was also attended by former Mayors as well as State Penrith MP Karen McKeown and other invited guests.
Delwyn Paech with ‘Ripples of Unity’.
A permanent plaque explaining ‘Ripples of Unity’.
HALL
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney with some of the local athletes honoured on Tuesday.
Last chance to see stunning Christmas lights display
An iconic western Sydney Christmas house is coming back for another year and is better than ever.
For over three decades the house at 7 Mallee Street Quakers Hill has lit up December with its festive spirit.
Now, the man behind the vision, Peter Overton, is preparing to hang up his boots after one last hurrah.
“This is my 31st year and I am getting a bit old now and it is too hard,” Overton said.
“I said last year’s was going to be my last year, but I decided to do it one more time!”
People come from far and wide to see the decorated two-storey house where all decorations are handcrafted and painted by
Overton while his wife creates the magical indoor display windows.
“So many people come when I light it all up, you can’t move! It’s a nightmare,” Overton said.
“I have a white installation which makes it look like snow on the roof, I have a snow machine, there is water running under a bridge, I made an old English village, there is a nativity scene and Santa’s workshop and a lot of it is animated.”
There are some exciting visitors expected this year this year with Santa coming to visit and give away some toys on Friday, December 20 at 8pm and carol singers coming on Monday, December 23 at 8pm.
Make sure to add Mallee Street in Quakers Hill to your list of must-see Christmas Lights this year!
Pet for Christmas? Adopt, don’t shop
with the right family.
This festive season a new pet could be the perfect gift for someone special in your life, but the community is being urged to adopt, not shop.
Animal Adoption Agency is a local animal rescue in Llandilo which is encouraging the local community to rescue a dog or cat instead of buying a brand-new animal.
“It would be nice if some of these dogs could be a Christmas present for someone this year, but it would need to be for the right reasons,”
Animal Adoption Agency owner Fiona Amiti said.
“It is a long-term commitment and people have to realise a lot of dedication is needed to look after a pet... there is a lot of time and money that’s involved.
“We’ve had quite a few successful adoptions so far, so we are hoping to get a few more out the door so they can enjoy Christmas with their new families.”
The Llandilo Animal Adoption Agency is a no kill rescue and works to make sure the right pet goes home
“I think the key for when somebody is looking for an animal for adoption is always go to the person who has the knowledge and experience to be able to recommend the right pet for you,” Amiti said.
“We’ve got 25 years of experience, and we make sure that the animals we are recommending to people are the right fit for their families or their situation because it is not always a successful adoption.
“People don’t think it through, but we do our best to ensure that we’re not handing over an animal that they couldn’t handle because not every animal is for everybody.”
Amiti’s advice for adopting an animal this Christmas is simple.
“When approaching shelters always make sure that you are ready for an animal, don’t make an impulsive decision and make sure that you do have the space and time to be able to spend with the animal and accommodate it,” Amiti said.
“Also, give them a chance because sometimes it can take a little while for them to
settle into their new home…. Some do take longer than others to settle in. Just give them a chance and honestly, it will be worth it.”
Amiti has been running the Animal Adoption Agency for 25 years after having a deep love for animals growing up.
“As a young child I used to take home all the strays so that’s how it started. I had about 10 cats at one point!” Amiti said.
“My husband and I had the same passion and love for animals. We just ended up rescuing so many dogs that we thought let’s make this a full-time thing and help the animals.”
People come from far and wide to see the stunning display.
Fiona Amiti and Renai Lewis with Temmie the Husky.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
EMILY CHATE
EMILY CHATE
Leading up to Christmas there are so many beautifully decorated houses in the area, all showing off their festive spirit.
But, finding out where the best displays are can often be the hardest part.
Here is a comprehensive list of the hotspots in the Penrith LGA:
Organisers were forced to cancel last Saturday’s major carols event in Penrith after persistent rain fell throughout the day.
The event was due to take place at the Penrith Paceway.
“ We understand the disappointment this may cause, as it is a cherished event for many,” organisers said in a statement.
Organisers said the safety and enjoyment of the community needed to be put first, leading to the decision.
Meanwhile, Penrith’s other major carols event, Carols on the Course at Leonay Golf Club, will go ahead this Saturday.
The event will include carols, fireworks and live entertainment as well as a BBQ and face painting for the kids.
Gates open at 4pm.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the event, which has become an institution for many in the local area.
Funds raised on the night go to Our Community Cares.
Pembroke Street, Cambridge Park in a previous year.
Pembroke Street, Cambridge Park in a previous year.
49 Water Gum Drive, Jordan Springs in a previous year.
Carols on the Course.
The roads in Penrith earmarked for important safety upgrades
Penrith City Council has identified multiple roads in need of fixing and will submit an application for further funding to improve road safety in the community.
Council has successfully received $1.4 million in funding through the Road Safety Program and has identified a further six sites across Penrith that require remediation efforts to reduce accidents.
The $1.4 million will be used at Illawong Avenue and Caloola Avenue in Penrith to install two ‘wombat’ pedestrian crossings, a pedestrian footpath connection to the existing footpath on the southern side of Caloola, and construct a 1.8-metre-wide footpath with kerb ramps to provide missing links within the school catchment.
Council will now submit a report to Transport for NSW (TfNSW) for further funding to improve safety at the six sites under the Federal Government’s Black Spot Program
and the NSW Safer Roads Program. The sites have been identified by Council as the highest priority for remediation and include the intersection of Hobart Street and Melbourne Street in Oxley Park; Victoria Street between Burton Street and Lethbridge Avenue in Werrington; the intersection of Seventh Avenue and Terrybrook Road in Llandilo; Lethbridge Street between Evan Street and Colless
Street in Penrith; Racecourse Road between Jamison Road and Batt Street in South Penrith; and Greygums Road between Andrews Road and Laycock Street in Cranebrook. “Nominated projects were prioritised according to the number of injury crashes that had occurred over the five-year period, and the ability to successfully remediate the accident hazards at that location by way of an appropriate treatment,”
the report to Council said. Improvements at the identified sites would include traffic calming installation of safety barriers, street lighting, supplementary signage, line marking and median islands along with a suggested single lane roundabout at the intersection of Laycock Street with pedestrian facilities and other traffic calming. Council will make a submission to TfNSW for their consideration.
Mayor’s News
The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor
Are you summer ready?
With the warm summer weather and the holiday season just around the corner, I want to remind everyone to look after yourselves and others, to stay safe and well over the Christmas break.
Our Nepean River and Penrith Lakes are popular spots for everyone to enjoy, especially during our summer months.
and considerate with others on the road. We want everyone to arrive home safely to their friends and family this holiday season.
I know you’re as pleased as I am that Penrith Beach is now open daily from 10am-7pm throughout summer until April 27, 2025. When swimming in rivers and lakes, please remember to never swim alone and check the depth of water before going in.
Please also ensure you do the right thing when it comes to pool compliance. An important first step is to check your pool gates and barriers to make sure all pools are properly fenced off. This includes temporary inflatable pools. If you need help with your swimming pool barrier, Council’s qualified Compliance Officers can visit your home to assess your pool and assist with certification.
Our roads can be busy at this time of year, so please slow down, be patient
If you’re planning a long trip, make sure you get a good night’s sleep, avoid alcohol the night before, plan your route, check weather and fire warnings, and take regular rest breaks on your journey. Double demerits are in force from Friday, December 20, 2024 to Wednesday, January 1, 2025 inclusive, and Friday, January 24 to Monday, January 27, 2025 inclusive. Over this season, there’s an increased risk of extreme weather including heatwaves and storms, as well as bushfires. To build your own resilience and that of your household and community, it is important for you to know your risk, keep informed, and to be prepared for disasters and other emergencies.
For more information on how to stay safe this summer, visit https://www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/.
Look out for each other and stay safe.
CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith
PLEDGE TO SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS
Find out how you can support your paper at www.westernweekender.com.au/pledge.
Intersection of Seventh Avenue and Terrybrook Road in Llandilo. Photo: Melinda Jane. EMILY
On a mission to give back
Zachary Ryan commits to massive physical quest to raise funds for hospital
Last year, a Penrith family spent the lead-up to Christmas at John Hunter Children’s Hospital.
This year, the family’s patriarch Zachary Ryan is giving thanks to the hospital by undertaking a 500km challenge over five days to raise $100,000.
“Last year, we went up to Nelson Bay for a family holiday, and our youngest, who was six-months-old at the time, was having a lot of trouble breathing,” Ryan recounted.
“He got really sick one night and my partner rang the ambulance, and the ambulance took him and my partner to John Hunter Children’s Hospital.
“They did a really good job, but he had a few nights where they were having to put feeding tubes and breathing tubes through his nose and into his stomach and he was constantly on masks and wasn’t able to breastfeed, which had been his only source of food since he’d been born.”
couldn’t speak higher of the care they received.
“I remember being in the ordeal, and the whole time I thought, ‘The next time I do something, I want to
130kg tyre 6.5km around the
and I’ve always leant into the physical aspect to be an outlet for me, and I was thinking of what I could do for them,” Ryan said.
“I was in a lull with my training,
flashback to when I did the tyre flip and how I felt doing something for someone else.”’
From December 17-21, Ryan will complete 100km on the Ski Erg in under 10 hours, 100km on the Bike Erg in under five hours, 100km on the Row Erg in under 10 hours, 100km on the Rogue Echo Bike in under five hours, and a 100km run around the Nepean River in under 15 hours.
“I don’t know how I came up with the idea of 100km on every machine, I’m sure I could’ve come up with something easier, but it must’ve been something that I was fixated on,” Ryan said.
“I think as well, at that time it was incomprehensible to be able to do 100km on five different things over five days without the body breaking down, so I think the challenge was picked because it was something I didn’t know if I’d be able to do.”
If you’d like to support John Hunter Children’s Hospital the way they support children in need, you can make a donation at the ‘Worlds First 100km a Day’ GoFundMe page, located at https://www.gofundme.
College is no stranger to undertaking big feats in the name of charity. In 2020, he raised awareness for men’s mental health by flipping a
Zachary Ryan training for his 100 km run.
Zachary Ryan and his son.
ALLY HALL
Pippa was a life saver,
time to help save hers
ALLY HALL
Asassy Maltese Shih Tzu named Pippa took care of her owner when she suffered a stroke in 2020, and it’s time to return the favour.
Pippa was diagnosed with Lymphoma six weeks ago and is now in remission after four doses of chemotherapy, but owner Kelly Ryan says there’s still a long way to go with radiation treatments over the next 16 weeks.
“Dogs that get radiation have a 50 per cent better chance of surviving two or more years after diagnosis,” Ryan explained.
“She’s officially in remission, and she’ll have her first radiation session next week, but that costs us an extra $11,000 on top of the $10,000 for chemo.”
The Jordan Springs local didn’t think twice about the more than $20,000 price tag, saying it’s time to give back to her best friend after the roles were reversed four years ago.
“She became really protective of me and gave herself the title of my support dog and she would lay in bed with me all day if I was sick,” Ryan said.
“She completely changed her whole attitude and temperament, so if I was having a bad day, she would be right next to me and just not move or annoy me or beg for food or anything like that.
“Then, if a couple of days later I was feeling better, she’d be back to her bouncy self and demanding treats and walks, so she really tuned in to how I was feeling.”
The 11-year-old dog has spent her life spreading love and joy – and not just with her own family.
“I was working with the ambos for 10 years, and for about two of those, Pip would come to work with me, and we’d drive around to all the local hospitals and ambulance stations and visit paramedics to brighten their day,”
Ryan stated.
Ryan said there’s something special about Pip.
“She’s got a really great ability to tune into people’s feelings and emotions and gives them exactly what they need in that moment,” Ryan explained.
“She’s very strong-willed, very brave, nothing scares her.”
You can contribute to Pippa’s recovery by donating to her GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/ pippas-cancer-treatment.
THE LIFESAVING AIRWAY CLEARANCE
feVac is a unique device used to dislodge food or hazardous items from the airway through a one-way suction which removes the object in the event of choking. The negative pressure generated by the force of the suction is 3 times greater than the highest recorded first-aid measure.
has been designed to be used on children and adults and the pushpull motion can be mastered by any user. You can even use it on yourself.
Kelly Ryan and her dog Pippa. Photo by Melinda Jane.
Apprentices get a hand
Four locals awarded Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship
Four Penrith locals have been awarded a prestigious apprentice scholarship.
Elyse Stindl, Jirriwarr Edwards, Laura Callaghan and Tiarna Vornfett were four of 150 apprentices awarded the Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship for their commitment to the mechanical trade in western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
The apprentices will each receive $15,000 over three years to assist them through hardship and honour their dedication and resilience.
Penrith MP Karen McKeown congratulated the apprentices on receiving the award.
“The dedication and resilience shown by these four apprentices from Penrith, to receive the Bert Evans Scholarship honour, is a reflection of their commitment on facing challenges and being included in a diverse industry,” McKeown said.
The 2024 cohort of scholarship recipients includes 44 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices, 83 learners with disabilities, 57 women excelling in non-tradi-
tional trades, and 74 mature aged apprentices.
Of the 150 recipients, 113 come from regional NSW.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the money will help break down barriers for incoming apprentices.
“The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship program reflects our
commitment to supporting our state’s apprentices, including those who have faced adversity,” Whan said.
“These 150 apprentices represent the future of the NSW skilled workforce, breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more diverse, inclusive and dynamic industry.
“This initiative upholds the legacy
of Bert Evans, who was a passionate advocate for vocational education as a means to success, and we are proud to continue his mission.
“The NSW Government’s total investment of $2.25 million over three years not only provides financial relief to apprentices in need but also empowers them to focus on their training, ensuring they
complete their qualifications and secure a promising future.”
The scholarship is named in honour of the late Bert Evans, a lifelong advocate for vocational education.
The scholarship continues his legacy of supporting apprentices and promoting vocational pathways.
State Penrith MP Karen McKeown chatting with apprentices.
Students take centre stage
“Expression of their language”: Deaf performers steal the show at Schools
ALLY HALL
Deaf students at Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School made an impact last month at the Schools Spectacular.
Year 12 students Zoe Blaike-West and Trent Hodges and Year 11 students Allison Turner and Ho Tin Ma took to the Qudos Bank Arena stage on November 29 and 30 to perform a rendition of Taylor Swift’s ‘Love Story’ in their own language.
“It’s very much an expression of their language and their culture and who they are,” explained Rachael Moss, teacher of the deaf at Nepean Creative and Performing Arts.
“Their identity is tied up in that rich deaf culture and we’re very proud to be able to present that this year.”
Former student Josie Woods, who was the first hearing impaired Schools Spectacular featured artist in 2022, guided her former signing choir schoolmates from the start.
She worked since May to interpret and translate ‘Love Story’ for the touching performance.
“This is many months of hard work, practice, rehearsing and connecting with the students and hearing their stories about who they are as deaf people and what they see for the future of storytelling and performing in Auslan,” Woods said.
“I would love to see so many more deaf students having this opportunity to be able to perform with a language that is theirs and to be able to show the world that everyone is able to perform and tell stories.”
Signing a song is significantly different to signing a conversation.
“It’s about capturing and interpretating the meaning of the song, not a word-for-word translation,” Moss said.
“Our four signing choir students have
Spectacular
cochlear implants and are verbal, so they see themselves as bi-lingual – no different to if someone were speaking another verbal language.”
The students performed alongside two featured vocalists, a featured celloist, and a 1,200 Moving Choir – impossible to overlook.
“We are here, and we do want to be seen, and we want to be supported just like everyone else is,” Woods said.
“We are people, and we just want to be able to
live our lives as ourselves, and one day, I really hope to see Auslan being taught in schools so we can all communicate and be one people all together.”
Woods also hopes to continue fostering the future of Auslan performance within the Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School community.
“I hope to be involved next year because this is my passion and something that I really love doing,” she said.
8D Christma
8 Days of Christmas
Zoe Blaike-West performs. Photo: Alyssa Terese.
Ho Tin Ma and Zoe Blaike-West. Photo: Alyssa Terese.
Stories that must be told
Incredible book honours our veterans, and reveals incredible tales for first time
ALLY HALL
An established author is ensuring the stories of Australian veterans are not forgotten, including that of Emu Heights Vietnam veteran David Calderwood, better known as “Buddha”.
Writer Dave Morgan is a Vietnam veteran himself, and Never Forgotten will be his fourth book.
“I’ve met a lot of veterans in my time who tell me about their experiences,
but they’ve never shared their stories,” Morgan said.
“My father, for instance, he served in the First and Second World Wars. He passed away before I was born, and I don’t know anything about him.
“He never spoke to my mother about his experiences and his story died with him, so that’s one reason I’m reaching out to different veterans to tell their stories.”
Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence, with many veterans choosing to keep their stories close to their chest.
“Everyone in life has a story to tell, and unfortunately, a lot of people can’t be bothered writing out their story and it’s lost,” Morgan stated.
“One bloke in the book has already passed away, and his wife told me, ‘We’ve got this book, and his story’s in there, and his story will never be forgotten.’”
The book includes the stories of 38 men and women who served.
Morgan found them through the well-connected veteran community.
“It spread through the grapevine and all sorts of veterans contacted me,” Morgan explained.
“Unfortunately, I couldn’t take all their stories because Big Sky Publishing said we couldn’t take any more.
“They’ve asked me to do another edition of the book because they had to cut four stories from the first edition.”
Lucky for us, a local made it into the first edition, and Morgan didn’t
need to use the grapevine to find “Buddha”, who he met in Vietnam in December 1969.
“When I got to Vietnam, we had shift work, we used to do three days, three evenings, three midnights, and he was the corporal on my shift,” Buddha recounted.
The Emu Heights resident went to Vietnam around nine months into Morgan’s service and they’ve since kept in touch – which was very important for Vietnam veterans upon returning to Australia.
“We weren’t really accepted when we came home,” Buddha explained.
“Even the RSL’s didn’t want us because they were mostly full of World War II blokes, and so you just sort of fade into the background a bit, you don’t talk about it with anyone other than your army mates because other people don’t understand.”
later, Morgan is bringing their stories to light.
The book is a collection of easy-toread experiences written through the lens of someone who’s experienced battle and subsequent PTSD, and all proceeds will be donated to Legacy Australia.
You can find Never Forgotten on the Big Sky Publishing website, on Amazon, or in store at Big W.
Now, almost 50 years
Local marketing agency announces new scholarship
QAgency, the Penrithbased creative and digital marketing company, has announced the Q Agency Scholarship for Excellence, in partnership with Western Sydney University (WSU).
The scholarship will be awarded to a final-year Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) student with a GPA of 5.0 or higher.
This initiative marks Q Agency as the first marketing agency to offer a scholarship program in collaboration with the university, fostering emerging visual communi-
cations talent.
Michael Noone, Co-founder and Head of Brand and Creative at Q, is proud to support the next generation of creative professionals.
“Q Agency’s success is deeply rooted in western Sydney,” Noone explained.
“As we celebrate our growth, we’re excited to give back to the community that has supported us. This scholarship represents our commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the future of our industry.
Our connection with WSU runs deep, and we’re proud to
strengthen it further through this initiative.”
The scholarship is a natural progression of the team’s ongoing collaboration with WSU, building on the success of its recent photography masterclass.
Alongside the scholarship, Q Agency is also introducing a refreshed structure to its paid internship program in 2025. This program aligns with university timelines and projects, offering students practical experience in a rapidly growing agency environment.
Josh Richardson,
Co-founder and Technology Director, explained the importance of supporting emerging talent and contributing to a thriving and sustainable future.
“Our journey of attracting leading Australian and global companies has been remarkable. Now, we’re investing in the next generation of visual communicators who embody the diligence and innovation that have driven our success and will bring value to our client partners,” he said.
The Scholarship program is set to commence in Semester 1, 2025.
David Calderwood. Photo: Melinda Jane.
David Calderwood (Buddha).
Never Forgotten is out now.
Dr Leo Robba from WSU, Q Agency Co-Founder Michael Noone, and Dr Katrina Sandbach from WSU.
The ULTIMATE Race Of Champions experience. Watch motorsport icons Sebastian Vettel, Mick Schumacher and Aussie V8 Superstar Jamie Whincup battle it out
Δ Hands on with HP: Tech is certainly going to be a big seller this Christmas and recently, the Weekender has been hands on with the HP Pavilion 16 inch laptop (pictured above). An affordable, sturdy, yet lightweight laptop with AI capabilities and plenty of screen real estate, what’s most impressive here is just how much power is packed into a light, non-clunky machine. With a 512GB hard drive and 16GB of ram, the laptop is wellpriced at $1,399 and while it’s been promoted as the perfect laptop for a child needing a good machine for holiday entertainment, it does the job as a business laptop too – a smooth ride in terms of performance for email, browsing and video (it’s got an immersive display experience with up to 2K IMAX). The battery life has been impressive too – often getting through most of the work day without a recharge being needed. Get it from https:// www.hp.com/au-en/shop.
Δ Step into Squid Game: Macca’s has dropped a Squid Game Meal and Challenge (pictured below) ahead of the viral series’ return on Netflix later this month. Inspired by Netflix’s most popular show ever, the
Macca’s Squid Game Meal includes 10-piece Chicken McNuggets Medium or Large Meal, served with limited-time Korean BBQ Sauce, fries and a drink. And it comes with a Dalgona Candy. The infamous candy comes to Macca’s to test Aussie players, as part of the Macca’s Squid Game Challenge with four shapes set to have you in beads of sweat. Fans can now experience the thrill of the viral challenge at Macca’s – without any consequences, of course.
the QR code, scan to enter the draw and win exclusive The Elf on the Shelf prizes.
Δ Summer essential: Welcare, an Australian owned and operated brand and trusted name in innovative wellness solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its latest product: the Welcare Insect Bite Healer. Designed to provide natural, fast and effective relief from insect bites and stings, the Insect Bite Healer is a chemical-free, portable solution that offers instant comfort
items, plush toys and of course, showbags! For more information, or to see the full range, visit www.showbags.com.au.
Δ Merry Grinchmas: Krispy Kreme is getting into the festive season with the launch of new Grinch-themed doughnuts. The new Grinch Doughnut is an unglazed doughnut filled with cookies & creme-flavoured filling,
Δ Happiest meal of all: Talking of Macca’s, they’ve also dropped The Elf on the Shelf Happy Meal, in partnership with The Lumistella Company, home to the storytelling world of The Elf on the Shelf Santaverse. Macca’s is unwrapping the holiday magic for Aussies with 10 The Elf on the Shelf Santaverse plush toy characters, or two The Elf on the Shelf books to collect with the purchase of a Happy Meal. And, the feel-good festivities don’t stop there! Families and collectors can take part in a cheeky Scout Elf hunt across Macca’s restaurants nationwide, simply head to your local Macca’s and find the elf with
for families, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone ‘on the go’. Go to https://welcare.com.au/ product/welcare-insect-bite-healer/ for more information or to purchase.
Δ Showbags for Christmas: We all know how much the kids love showbags at the Easter
dipped in Grinch green icing with a chocolate icing smirky grin and buttercream hair. Meanwhile, the new Grinchy Claus Doughnut is an Original Glazed doughnut dipped in chocolate icing, topped with white buttercream, Christmas crispies and Grinch piece.
Δ Snickers brews up new flavour: Snickers has launched a new coffee flavoured option, available exclusively at 7-Eleven until next February when it launches in
ley Research & Development Director, Chris Hutton, said the flavour has been developed exclusively for Australians, by Australians. “We know how much Aussies love their coffee, and after two years of development and 13 different product prototypes, we’re excited to bring this new twist on Snickers to life,” he said.
Δ Libraries to close: The Penrith Civic Centre, St Marys Council Office and Penrith City Libraries’ three branches will be closed during the Christmas and New Year holiday period from Wednesday, December 25 2024 and reopen on Thursday, January 2 2025.
Δ Party with Cleary: Drink West has announced its Cleary Christmas Party on Friday, December 20 – where attendees can not only enjoy terrific food and drink, but party with NRL star Nathan Cleary. Bookings are available now at www.drinkwest.com.au.
Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about store openings, closings, new menus and more! Email news@westernweekender.com.au.
This photograph from the early 1930s shows a Christmas celebration at Memory Park in Penrith.
Mayor Leslie Markham and Mayoress Margaret Markham are pictured here with children from the local area.
Markham was Mayor from 1930-1932, so the photograph is either from Christmas 1930, 1931 or 1932.
High Street can be seen in the background, including Bussell Brothers store. The William Batten Service Station is seen on the right of the photograph.
City Library)
(Photo thanks to Penrith
FESTIVE SEASON MARKETING
As the year winds down, small business owners often find themselves in a common dilemma. The festive season is a golden opportunity for sales, but the challenge lies in capitalising on this period without breaking the bank.
So, how do you make your business stand out during the busiest time of the year, especially when resources are limited?
Know your audience
Before diving into any marketing strategy, it’s crucial to understand who your customers are and what they’re looking for during the holiday season.
Use your buyer persona to brainstorm what your customer wants. Think of marketing promotions that fit the persona, whether it’s a special offer for busy parents during the back-to-school season or a unique gift idea for Valentine’s Day.
Leverage social media
Social media platforms are a cost-effective way to reach
a large audience. Create engaging content that aligns with the festive theme. Use hashtags, run contests, and encourage user-generated content to increase engagement.
Email marketing
Utilise your email list to send personalised messages and exclusive offers. Emails with a holiday theme or countdown can create a sense of urgency and encourage customers to make a purchase. Consider these tools to streamline your email marketing:
• MailChimp: Offers userfriendly templates and automation.
• Campaign monitor: Great for creating personalised email campaigns.
• Constant contact: Provides extensive email marketing features with easy integration.
Offer exclusive deals
Create special holiday offers or limited-time discounts to attract customers. For Mother’s/Father’s
The Experts
Day, consider family package deals or ‘thank you’ discounts. During Christmas, bundle offers or gift card promotions can be effective. And for New Year’s, offer new beginnings or resolution-themed promotions.
Host events or workshops If feasible, organise small events or workshops that align with your business and the festive season.
Retail stores can host holiday shopping nights, service-based businesses can offer free consultations or workshops, and restaurants or cafés might consider themed dining experiences or cooking classes for their regular or new customers.
LOOKING FOR RELIABLE PLUMBING
SITE
Cabinet Installer Wanted – Join J&L Kitchens!
We’re hiring an experienced Cabinet Installer In Penrith
• Cabinetry installation experience required
• Manual driver’s license & own tools essential Start in January/February 2025 with Western Sydney’s trusted kitchen experts for over 20 years!
Apply today: 4732 4566 or email info@jandlkitchens.com
Keith Edward Newbegin
Late of Lemongrove Gardens
Formerly Bribie Island
8/9/43 - 30/11/24
Happily aged 81 years
Husband of Geraldine (dec )
Loved father, grandfather, father-in-law, uncle, & friend. Reunited with Mum/Nana
We love you and will miss you Dad/Pa Lynda & Troy, Chloe & girls, Brody & Sarah & your little mate Buster bird.
“ Sing me back home”
Per Keith he will be privately cremated.
Notice of Precipe
For the record Bradley Terrence Gee of Alexandria, New South Wales, is permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australia. I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and the paramount security interest holder of all estates, property, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names in all variations and all relative styles. My lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 29192 62607 on Proclamation Date 24th October 2024, and tacit agreement was established by my unrebutted Living severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The immediately cease and desist misaddressing Bradley Terrence Gee in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon my estate, property, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.
C addens
C addens News (C addens Corner)
Woolworths
C ambridge Gardens
Coles
McDonald's
Overlander Hotel
C ambridge Park
C ambridge Park Newsagency
Cellarbations
Friendly Grocer
C astlereagh
Ampol Ser vice Station
Claremont Meadows
Iga Claremont Meadows
Coly ton
Coly ton Centre Pharmacy
Coly ton Friendly Grocer
Coly ton Hotel
Coly ton Newsagency
Hewitt Street Takeaway
Cranebrook
Aldi Cranebrook
Cranebrook Community Health
Cranebrook Village
McDonald's
Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy
Woolworths Cranebrook
Emu Plains
Chambers Cellars
Lennox Centre Newsagency
McDonald's
Penrith Regional Galler y Woolworths Lennox Village
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)
Emu Height s
Super Save Compounding Chemis t
Erskine Park
Ashcroft’s Iga
Erskine Park Ctc
G lenmore Park
Coles
Mags News
McDonald's
Medi Advice Pharmacy
Woolworths
J amisontown
Abcoe
Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym
B att Street Take Away
Grey Gums Hotel
Har vey Norman
New On York Takeaway
Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen
(Penrith Homemaker)
Patt y’s Place
S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)
S hell Ser vice Station
The Coffee Club Nepean River
Three Sugars C afé
We stern Weekender
York Takeaway
Zoo Fitness
7/ 11 Jamisontow n
Jordan Springs
Brooks Tavern
Jordan Springs Newsagency
Woolworths
Kemps Creek
C altex Ser vice Station
Kemps Creek Bowling Club
Kingswood
B arista Bar Coff ee Shop
(Nepean Private Hospital)
Countr y Brewer
Hallani’s
Kingswood Hotel
Kingswood Newsagency
Kingswood Smash Repairs
Kingswood Sports Club
Penrith Gaels Club
Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital
7/ 11 Kingswood
Leonay
Emu Sports Club
Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)
Llandilo
IGA
Londonderr y
Londonderr y Liquor Store
S hell X Roads
Luddenham
Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham
Minchinbur y McDonald's
Minchinbur y Fruit Market
Mulgoa
Glenmore Heritage Golf Club
Mulgoa Newsagency
Mulgoa Pharmacy
Nor th St Mar ys
Boronia House (Retirement Community)
MFC Food Stores
Orchard Hills
Flower Power
Oxley Park
Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy
Penrith
Aldi
Astina
Atmosphere Gym
Au stralian Arms
Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)
Brisket Boys
Ca fé Fre d
C altex Coreen Avenue
Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)
Coles ( We stfield Penrith)
Crescent Mini Mar t
High Street Pies
Hoyt s Westfield
Joan Sutherland Arts Centre
Liquor Stax Pe achtree
McDonald's High Street
McDonald's Panthers Le agues
McDonald's Pe achtree
Mercure Hotel
Museum Of Fire
Nepean Aquatic Centre
Nepean Motor Group C afé
Nepean Rowing Club
Nepean Village Coffee Club
Nepean Village Newsagency
Nextra Westfield
O ffice of Karen McKeown MP
One Point Health
Panthers Le agues Club
Pe achtree Hotel
Penrith Bowling Club
Penrith CBD Corporation
Penrith City Council
Penrith City Librar y
Penrith Golf Club
Penrith Hotel
Penrith Paceway
Penrith RSL
Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre
Pioneer Tavern
RE/MAX
Sittano’s Restaurant
Tattersalls Hotel
The Chicken Run
The Heritage Terrace C afé
The Log C abin
We stfield
World Gym
7/ 11 Henr y Street
Regentville
7/ 11 Regentville
Ropes Crossing
Coles
Ropes Crossing Newsagency
Silverdale
Mobil Ser vice Station
The Chemist Shop
S outh Penrith
Budget Ser vice Station
Fish Fish
Friendly Grocer
Grose’s Pharmacy
Southlands Newsagency
Woolworths
St Clair
Lemongrove Community Health Centre
South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre
St Clair Librar y
St Mar ys Andrew ’s Corner Store
Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy
C assand ra’s On Queen
Cr ystal C afé
Guido s Hair C are
Jayam Supermarket
Queen St Newsagency
St Mar ys Band Club
St Mar ys Fish Market
St Mar ys Le agues Club
St Mar ys Librar
McDonald's St Mar ys South Monfar ville Corner Store
ENTERTAINMENT
PERFECT FESTIVE ESCAPE
Everyone knows the classic Christmas film ‘Love Actually’, whether they watch the movie religiously every December, or they’ve heard of it in passing.
Now, coming to a theatre near you is ‘Christmas Actually’, a cabaret show celebrating the movie’s iconic soundtrack.
Cabaret sweethearts Naomi Price and Libby O’Donovan will be delivering the holiday hits alongside a full live band and superstar vocalists.
And O’Donovan said you don’t have to be a fan of the movie to enjoy the show.
“I hadn’t even seen the movie when I was hired to do this show!” O’Donovan exclaimed.
“We do talk about ‘Love Actually’, so if you love the movie, you’ll definitely connect with the show in terms of the movie, but if you just love music, then you’d definitely connect with it through the music.”
The ultimate silly season starter is bursting with nativity lobsters, cinnamon sticks and endless fun, which is a great way to relax and laugh through this busy time of year.
“To go and see a show where you forget all
of the stress for a couple of hours and just release and have a great time listening to music – there’s laughter, there’s joy, there’s costumes, there’s glitter – that’s the kind of atmosphere that’s created,” O’Donovan explained.
Not only does the show benefit audiences, but it also offers creativity and flexibility for the performers, which is something O’Donovan thrives on.
“The producers that put this together, Little Red Company, have created a show that allows for the lead performer to put their own personality into it,” O’Donovan stated.
“I’ve definitely been able to be myself, which is my favourite thing to be.”
And so it should be! O’Donovan has received an Order of Australia in recognition of her services as a Jazz and Cabaret performer and as an award-winning Musical Director, in addition to receiving the 2022 Cabaret Icon Award.
While those accolades are incredible, the performer said some things are more important – especially at this time of year.
“I think Christmas lends itself to people coming together, and I really do love that because I think the whole idea of communities coming together, families – both born into and chosen – are what makes life worth living,”
O’Donovan said.
“It’s the whole idea of connecting with other people that is just such a beautiful thing.”
The charming performers will bring you magical musical moments including hit songs from Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, and more.
‘Christmas Actually’ will be on at the Sydney Coliseum Theatre on Saturday, December 21. Tickets range between $59.90 and $79.90, and bookings can be made at https://sydneycoliseum.com.au/whats-on/ christmas-actually.
ALLY HALL
WesternSydney GigGuid e
IF YOU HAVE A GIG OR EVENT YOU Would LIKE TO PROMOTE PLEASE CONTACT AMANDA at AMANDA.COSKERIE@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU
Every Tuesday from 9am to 3pm, you can ‘catch and release’ with barbless hooks at the Regatta Centre. There are nine kinds of freshwater fish to catch at Penrith Lakes, including Australian bass, freshwater catfish, long-finned eel and carp. Participants need to bring their own equipment and ensure they release everything they catch.
BARGAIN BUYS
Op Shop at Kingswood Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.
BUSINESS
Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce
For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au.
Penrith CBD Corporation
Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.
Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.
Nepean Riverlands Probus Club
Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club
Christmas wreath and vino
Make your own wreath this year at the Christmas Wreath Vino and Vines Workshop. You’ll be transforming dried vines into stunning wreaths using native foliage, pinecones, berries, ribbons and more. All you need to bring along is your favourite vino and a platter of nibbles to enjoy while you create. The workshop costs $160. Visit www.thecreativefringe.com.au.
from 10am. New members are always welcome.
Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club
Meets on the last Monday of the month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am.
Probus Club of Nepean
First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am. Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866 for more information.
Penrith Lions Club
Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.
Nepean Valley RSL Day Club
Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542.
Penrith Hospital Auxiliary
Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.
Christmas crafts for kids
A school holiday workshop at Penrith Regional Gallery will have kids aged 5-12 creating gift tags and garlands inspired by plants and animals. Participants need to bring an apron or wear clothes they’re happy to get messy in. The $40 workshop starts at 10am on Thursday, December 19. Find out more at www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au.
volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.
Penrith NASHOS
Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL. Call 0448 983 399 for details.
Nepean Evening VIEW Club
Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Nepean Food Services
Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au.
Free food shop
9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.
MUSEUMS
Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information.
Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.
Penrith Carer Support Group
First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.
Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.
Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.
Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.
GET KIDS ON THE WATER
Cables Wake Park is kickin’ it old school this summer, getting kids away from their screens and back to the great outdoors.
School-age kids can take on the world of wakeboarding with school holiday camps, providing the perfect chance to learn new skills or progress their skills with worldclass training facilities.
There are three levels for the holiday camps – Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced – which range from learning how to get around both lakes, to landing 360’s and air tricks. There are 1-day and 3-day programs to choose from with optional on-site accommodation, and prices range from $299 to $1,149.
Six national champion wakeboarders have already honed their skills at the School Holiday Wake Camps, with many more on the horizon!
If you can’t make it to camp, Cables Wake Park also has a Kids Club every Sunday morning from 8.30am to 10am until the end of March next year.
This club is for kids from six to 15-years-old and is very beginner friendly!
The cable runs at a slower speed and participants can start on a kneeboard before progressing to a wakeboard.
Not only is it a great chance to gain skills and undergo new experiences, but also a fantastic opportunity to meet new friends in a positive and inclusive environment in Penrith.
Find out more and make a booking at www.cableswakepark.com.au.
ALLY HALL
SCHOOL
STARTIN JANUARY 2025
At the movies...
Hugh Grant’s new flick ‘Heretic’ is branded and promoted as a horror film, and that’s certainly accurate when looked at in its entirety, but it plays much more like a psychological thriller.
In fact for a good 90 minutes or so you could argue this isn’t a horror at all, but the pay-off for fans of the genre certainly comes as the film concludes.
We’re introduced straight away to two
here, and as much as they want to have faith in their fellow man, both girls start to feel uneasy.
What follows is an intense ride full of sensational monologues from Grant (who really owns the film), questions that will make you ponder religion and its history, and an in-
credible story about Monopoly that will have you heading straight to Google afterwards. This ‘Saw’-like flick is almost a five out of five for me, but the ending just doesn’t quite hit as good as it could have. Still, this is a pulsating must-see.
– Troy Dodds
www.hoyts.com.au
COUNTRY CORNER
The War And Treaty, who have been hailed as “one of the most exciting live acts in American roots music” (Los Angeles Times), have announced their fourth fulllength album, ‘Plus One’, will be released on February 14 next year.
On ‘Plus One’, the powerhouse husband and wife duo, Michael and Tanya Trotter, double down on the powerful sense of togetherness that has always fuelled their music, offering up 18 life-affirming songs aimed at providing a shared experience of hope and healing and much-needed joy.
“We see this record as an open invitation to be a part of what we’re doing – it came from wanting to be the hope we believe people need right now, as well as the hope that we need for ourselves,”
Tanya Trotter shared.
“One of our main intentions with this album is to inspire people to share themselves with others, and open themselves up to the possibility of being loved,” Michael Trotter added.
The track listing’s myriad of high points include ‘Love Like Whiskey’, a soul-soothing portrait of a love strong
enough to overcome any obstacle, co-written by the Trotters and Miranda Lambert; the wildly ecstatic ‘Called You By Your Name’, a breakneck-paced rallying cry influenced by the Black gospel tradition of shout
Since first lighting up the world with their fusion of country and soul, The War And Treaty have steadily built a legacy as one of the most iconic husband-andwife duos in music history. In the last few years alone, Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter’s phenomenal talent and daring originality have led to major milestones. In addition to the Grammys, the duo has received nominations from the Academy of Country Music, Country Music Association, CMT Music Awards, Americana Honors & Awards, and the People’s Choice Country Awards, and have taken home the Duo/Group of the Year prize at the Americana Music Honors & Awards two years in a row.
The War And Treaty has been hot on the road this year, performing with Chris Stapleton and Zach Bryan on a variety of tour dates, as well as an opening slot with The Rolling Stones. The new album will be out on all the usual streaming services.
music; ‘Drink From Me’, featuring virtuoso guitarist Billy Strings; ‘Leads Me Home’, which they performed on ‘LIVE with Kelly and Mark’; ‘Stealing a Kiss’, which they performed on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’; ‘Can I Get An Amen’, which they performed at the People’s Choice Country Awards; and ‘Carried Away’, their latest single.
Nathan Taylor
TV NEWS
Ê Good news for fans of Channel Seven’s ‘Carols in the Domain’, with the festive event set to be broadcast live in its traditional timeslot of Saturday, December 21 at 8pm. ‘Sunrise’ hosts Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington will return as hosts. This year’s performers include The Wiggles, Samantha Jade, Rhonda Burchmore, Christine Anu, Hugh Sheridan, Conrad Sewell, Erin Holland, Mark Vincent, Amy Manford, Silvia Colloca, Budjerah, Jael Wena, Kym Johnson, Patrick Roberts plus the Australian Girls Choir, Rejoice Gospel Choir, Sydney Youth Orchestra, Janice Breen Performers, ED5 International, The Salvation Army Choir and The Carols in the Domain Choir.
Ê Somewhat surprising news with Myf Warhurst and Joel Creasey departing as commentators of the ‘Eurovision Song Contest’. The pair have been phenomenal in their role since succeeding Julia Zemiro and Sam Pang back in 2017. SBS plans to unveil their plans for ‘Eurovision 2025’ in the coming months.
Ê Coming to Hayu this Friday, December 13 is the premiere of new series ‘Paris & Nicole: The Encore’. Two decades after exploding
DECEMBER 21 8PM
CAROLS IN THE DOMAIN, SEVEN
DECEMBER 13 PARIS & NICOLE: THE ENCORE, HAYU
onto the scene with the smash hit ‘The Simple Life’, BFFs Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie return to the small screen in an all-new format. Viewers will follow the duo as they try to produce a once-in-a-lifetime operatic performance based on their self-coined phrase, ‘Sanasa’. Sounds like a hoot!
Ê History was made last Sunday when ABC News broadcasted the first NSW 7PM News bulletin from the new ABC Parramatta studios. The historic first broadcast from the state-of-the-art Studio 91 was a key milestone for the ABC Parramatta project. The 7PM set featured a Parramatta Square skyline and once its Augmented Reality elements are implemented will incorporate full perspective tracking – another first for the ABC.
Ê Stan series ‘Bel-Air’, a dramatic reimagining of ‘90s sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ starring Will Smith, will return for a fourth and final season next year. The series, which stars Jabari Banks and Olly Sholotan, leans into the original premise which starred
the controversial Oscar winner.
Ê 7plus has launched a new true crime FAST channel. True Crime Files licenses nearly 100 hours of true crime content from one of the UK’s leading true crime doc producers. Titles include ‘World’s Most Evil Killers’, alongside ‘Jo Frost on Killer Kids’, and ‘Murdered in the Line of Duty’.
Ê Finally, I just want to say farewell to one of the funniest people to ever grace our screens, Paul Vautin. “Fatty”, as he’s affectionately known, announced his retirement from broadcasting last week after more than three decades on the air. Yes, he wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but to me he was one of my all-time favourites since I was a young kid growing up watching ‘The Footy Show’. Enjoy retirement, Fat!
Ê This is the final regular edition of Chatter on the Box for the year! Next week, I’ll reveal my famous Chatter on the Box Awards for 2024.
TV Guide: December 13 – 19
Your guide to the week’s television viewing
9:00
“West
Ansel
2:00
2:00 Close Encounters Down Under (PG) 3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Jade Fever (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00
Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Surveillance Oz (PG)
(PG) (’21)
11:35
(PG) 1:35 Harry’s
Unite
Extra Summer 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “A Christmas Break” (PG) (’20) Stars: Cindy Sampson 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Find My Beach House Australia 8:30 Movie: “Bad Moms 2” (M d,l) (’17) Stars: Mila Kunis 10:30 Movie: “Fighting With My Family” (M) (’19) Stars: Dwayne Johnson
12:00 Big Brother (PG) 2:25 Bondi Vet (PG) 3:25 First Dates UK (M) 4:30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special (PG) 5:00 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 7:00 Movie: “Playmobil: The Movie” (G) (’19) Stars: Anya Taylor-Joy
December
14
Saturday
12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Caulfield Heath/ Randwick/ Eagle Farm/ Ascot - Gold Rush Day *Live* 6:00 Taste Of Australia With Hayden Quinn (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country
4:05 The Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:15 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward 6:00 Bamay 6:30 Black As (PG) 6:40 Great Parks Of Africa (PG) 7:30 Movie: “A Kiwi Christmas” (PG) (’17)
9:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Star TrekVoyager (PG) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 All 4 Adventure (PG) 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Hawaii Five-0 (M) 1:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 2:00 Becker (PG) 2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 The
(PG) 9:30 Victorian Schools Spectacular 2024 (PG) 12:30 Taken (M v) 1:30 Harry’s Practice 2:00 Home Shopping 4:00 It’s Academic 12:00 Surfing Australia TV 12:30 Drive Safe 1:00 Our State On A
NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Elf” (G) (’03) Stars: Will Ferrell 9:30 Movie: “Candy Cane Lane” (PG) (’23) Stars: Eddie Murphy
1:30 The Weekend Prospector (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 Sunraysia Safari 2024 (PG) 4:00 Desert Collectors (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Cricket: Test 3: Day 1: Australia v India *Live* 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 4:40 Declassified: The Royal Scandals: Queen Elizabeth: Love, Honour And Crown (PG) 5:35 Movie: “The Angry Birds Movie 2” (PG) (’19) Stars: Jason Sudeikis 7:30 Movie: “Sing 2” (PG) (’21) Stars: Matthew McConaughey
Fool
2:50 Movie: “The Red Turtle” (PG) (’16) Stars: Pascale Ferran 4:20 The First Inventors 5:15 Black As (PG) 5:20 Black And Dusty 6:10 No Ordinary Black (PG) 6:20 NITV News: Summer Yarns 6:30 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (PG)
(PG) 3:40 Speechless (PG) 4:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:30 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 6:10 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 QI (PG) 5:30 Lorraine Pascale: Be A Better Cook 6:00 Patti’s Mexican Table 6:30 Tales From River Cottage 7:30 Hugh’s Fish Fight 8:30 Rick Stein’s Spain 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 10:35 Extreme Food Phobics 11:30 Dishing It Up Christmas Special
“The Lion King” (G) (’94) Stars: Rowan Atkinson 9:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 10:30 Ambulance Australia (PG) 11:40 Shark Tank (PG) 12:50 Ambulance UK (PG) 11:00
6:30 Bondi
(PG)
3:50 BBC News At Ten 4:20 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:50 PBS News Hour 5:50 The Mega-Brands That Built The World (PG) 7:35 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 Icons Unearthed (M v)
English/ German) 9:25 The Great House
3:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Football: Isuzu Ute ALeague Men: Round 8: Sydney FC v Western United *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight 7:25 Football: Isuzu Ute ALeague Men: Round 8: Western Sydney Wanderers v Brisbane Roar *Live* 10:00 NCIS (M) 11:30 Impractical Jokers (MA15+) 12:30 Friends (PG) 1:00 Shark Tank (PG) 2:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 2:30 Becker (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 2:00 Renovation Aloha 3:00 Maine
2:40 Movie: “Pokémon The Movie: The Power Of Us” (G) (’18) 4:40 Formula E 2025 Highlights 5:45 Movie: “The Secret Life Of Pets” (G) (’16) Stars: Kevin Hart 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince” (M) (’09) Stars: Alan Rickman
10:00 Secret Science (PG) 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Nigella’s Christmas Bites 1:20 Gardening Australia 2:35 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen 3:10 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:00 Fake Or Fortune? 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Muster Dogs - Where Are They Now? 8:00 Douglas Is Cancelled (M l) 8:45 Love Me (MA15+) 9:30 Spicks And Specks 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:30 Cricket: Pre-Game 11:20 Cricket: Australia v India: Test 3: Day 2 *Live* 1:20 Lunch Break 2:00 Cricket: Australia v India: Test 3: Day 2 *Live* 4:00 Tea Break 4:20 Cricket: Australia v India: Test 3: Day 2 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Perth v Melbourne Stars *Live* 10:30 Cricket: PostGame 11:00 7News Spotlight: Prince George 12:00 Patrick Melrose - Mother’s Milk (MA15+) 1:15 Travel Oz (PG) 12:00 Drive TV 12:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 1:30 Movie: “Merry & Bright” (PG) (’19) Stars: Jodie Sweetin 3:30 Endangered - Expedition Kimberley 4:30 Helloworld 5:00 NINE News First At Five 5:30 RBT (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 2024 The Year That Was 8:00 John Farnham - Celebrating 60 Years (M) 9:50 The Bee Gees - How Can You Mend A Broken Heart (M) 12:00 Maritime Masters - Expedition Antarctica (PG) 1:00 Helloworld 1:30 Home Shopping 12:00 Pooches At Play 12:30 Cook With Luke 1:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 1:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 2:00 Farm To Fork 2:30 NBL: Round 12: S.E.
Desserts (PG) 3:15 A Moveable Feast (PG) 3:45 The Voice (PG) 5:30 A Year On Planet Earth (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 2:00
Going Out (PG) 3:40 Speechless (PG) 4:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:30 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 6:10 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 QI (PG)
(PG) 12:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 12:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 2:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 3:00 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 4:00 I Fish 4:30 NBL: Round 12:
Eating Inn 6:30
Martin’s
7:30 A
Farmshop 8:30 Rick Stein’s Mediterranean 9:40
(PG) 4:00 Ghosts (PG) 5:00 Friends (PG) 5:35 Movie: “The Lion King” (G) (’94) Stars: Rowan Atkinson 7:25 The Big Bang Theory (PG)
Bourdain: Parts Unknown 10:30 Extreme Food Phobics 11:30 Jack Stein: Inside The Box 4:15 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 4:40 Scandinavian Star (PG) (In Danish/ Filipino/ Norwegian/ Portuguese) 5:50 The Engineering That Built The World (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (M) 8:30 Charge Around Australia (M)
1:00 Movie: “Crooks Anonymous” (G) (’62) 2:45 Movie: “The Party” (G) (’68) Stars: Peter Sellers 4:45 Movie: “Yours, Mine And Ours” (PG) (’68) Stars: Lucille Ball 7:00 Swimming: World Aquatics Championships: Day 5 *Live*
3:00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders (PG) 4:00 Movie: “Mr Mom” (PG) (’83) Stars: Michael Keaton 5:50 Movie: “Over The Hedge” (G) (’06) Stars: Bruce Willis 7:30 Movie: “Ocean’s Thirteen” (PG) (’07) Stars: Brad Pitt 12:00 Movie: “Silent Dust” (PG) (’49) Stars: Sally Gray 1:40 Movie: “The Big Country” (PG) (’58) Stars: Gregory Peck 5:00 M*A*S*H (PG) 7:00 Swimming: World Aquatics Championships: Day 6 *Live* 9:00 Movie: “A View To A Kill” (PG) (’85)
Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence
Get Macca’s® delivered.
5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:05 Kangaroo Beach 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Andy And The Band 7:35 The Inbestigators
5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:05 Kangaroo Beach 6:25 Peppa’s Christmas 7:05 Andy And The Band 7:35 The
12:00 Movie: “Destination Christmas” (AKA ‘Single And Ready To Jingle’) (PG) (’22) Stars: Natasha Wilson 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon
5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:05
JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 8:30 FBI: Most Wanted (M)
4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG)
5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Great Getaways (PG) 8:30 Budget Battlers (PG) 9:30 A+E After Dark (M) 10:30 Captivated (M
SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE FOR NEW AIRPORT CITY
In another significant milestone for Bradfield City Centre, construction of the First Building – housing Stage 1 of the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) – is now complete.
The AMRF will offer world-class support to help businesses grow faster, reduce risks, and compete globally, while strengthening the NSW economy.
The AMRF is central to the economic development strategy underpinning Bradfield City Centre. By strengthening the manufacturing sector, the AMRF will play an integral role in creating more high-value jobs, leveraging the $20 billion worth of Government infrastructure in the Aerotropolis.
With sustainability at its core, the First Building sets the bench-
mark for the new city. It features extensive use of natural materials and a cooling green roof to reduce solar thermal heating loads.
“IT’S
Designed with Country, the building draws its design cues from the surrounding natural waterways and the Cumberland Plains. Internal rammed earth walls provide a stunning visual feature, alongside extensive glass walls that allow visitors to witness the creation of new prototypes
and technologies in the AMRF Manufacturing Hall.
A rooftop viewing platform provides a unique vantage point to watch the construction of the new city and the nearby Bradfield Metro station.
The Bradfield Development Authority has now begun commissioning the building and installing advanced manufacturing equipment, with a scheduled opening in early 2025.
“Bradfield Development Authority is committed to building a stronger future for Western Sydney by delivering Bradfield and attracting investment to the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. The Authority has firmly shifted from planning to a delivery phase, with momentum well underway,” said Bradfield Development Authority CEO, Ken Morrison said.
“Completion of the First Building is a milestone that will accelerate innovation across the manufacturing sector in western Sydney and beyond.”
The First Building and AMRF will be magnets for innovation and investment across NSW and Australia, aligning with the NSW Government’s commitment to prioritise rebuilding the state’s manufacturing capability.
“The people and industries of western Sydney can now utilise AMRF’s expertise and world leading advanced manufacturing equipment to connect with global opportunities, create jobs and drive the NSW economy,” Morrison said.
“It is the first step in delivering more highly paid, skilled jobs, improving the lives of people in western Sydney.”
Completion of the First Building in Bradfield City Centre. Photo: Quentin Jones/thinkMammoth.
LUXURY LIVING AWAITS
FAMILY
What’s so special about this property?
This modern Waterside home features open-plan living, a stunning kitchen, luxurious master suite, alfresco entertaining, and low-maintenance design, with access to community facilities, lakeside trails, and Penrith’s shopping and transport.
Who does this property suit?
This property suits families or professionals seeking a modern,
low-maintenance home with premium amenities, community facilities, and convenient access to shopping, transport, and lifestyle perks.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
Waterside is a serene, family-friendly area offering picturesque lakes, walking trails, community facilities, and easy access to Penrith’s shopping, transport, schools and amenities.
a beautiful home that can handle a
family has
been
The Genero luxury vinyl collection is stylish, durable and easy to maintain.
With over 50 styles to choose from, it really is the smart choice.
in-store or view at
Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0
FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME
WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE
Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me.
GROUND BROKEN ON SENIORS’ LIVING PROJECT
Ground has been broken at Park Meadows by Uniting, with works officially commencing for the project’s expansion in Westmead.
The new development will address the needs of the growing number of seniors in Westmead and neighbouring suburbs, creating a welcoming community where every stage of life is supported with exceptional care and services.
This milestone was marked with a Welcome to Country and
smoking ceremony performed by a Darug Elder, alongside a symbolic sod-turn at Park Meadows by Uniting. It was attended by residents of both the retirement living village and the residential aged care home, along with Simon Furness, Director of Property and Housing at Uniting, who all celebrated the growth of this thriving retirement and independent living village.
Speaking at the ceremony, Furness said the expansion was testament to Uniting’s commit-
ment to the local community.
“Uniting has been providing high-quality seniors’ accommodation and services to the Westmead community for over 50 years. This expansion of Park Meadows by Uniting means we can continue to provide a continuum of care for our local seniors
“THE
that prioritises independence and wellbeing, alongside the security of staying close to those they know and love, even as care needs may change,” he said.
Set for completion in mid-2027, the new village will provide a variety of amenities for existing and future residents, their families and local community
including 153 quality independent living apartments, bringing the total number of apartments to 223 and 171 parking spaces. There will also be an indoor pool and spacious gathering and relaxation areas, including an activities green, children’s playground, village green, designated BBQ areas, and alfresco dining and lounge areas.
Adrian Ciano, Head of Property Development at Uniting, said Stage 2 is the final step in realising Uniting’s vision for the Westmead community.
“The new development at Park Meadows will address the increasing demand for high-quality, contemporary accommodation for seniors in our local area. We continuously look for ways to enhance and expand villages such as Park Meadows, ensuring that our services provide for people well into the future,” he said.
For more information, visit www.uniting.org/park-meadows-by-uniting-expansion.
DIVE INTO YOUR DREAM POOL WITH OUTBACK POOLS
Outback Pools is your one-stop shop for all concrete pool essentials. Stocking top brands like Pentair, Maytronics, Theralux, Lincoln BWT and more, we offer a wide range of supplies, including heat pumps, pool covers, chemicals, and cleaning equipment.
Our expert team provides free water analysis, onsite maintenance, and personalised advice to keep your pool in perfect condition. Whether you’re upgrading or maintaining, we have products for ever y budget.
PROTECT YOURSELF THIS FESTIVE SEASON The Experts
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and generosity. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to exploit the festive spirit and the increased online activity. Here are some common scams to watch out for during the holidays, along with tips on protecting yourself.
1. Gift card scams
Gift cards are a popular holiday gift, but they are also a favourite target for scammers. A common tactic is to trick people into buying gift cards as a form of payment for fake services or debts.
Example: This happened to one of our clients. A new staff member identified on LinkedIn was targeted to buy gift cards. The reasoning was that the owner wanted to give them out as bonuses. Being new, no-one would find out and spoil the surprise.
Protection tips: Only buy gift cards from reputable retailers. Check the packaging for signs of tampering. Most importantly, never use gift cards to pay for services or debts.
2. Impersonation scams
Scammers often impersonate trusted entities, such as banks, government agencies, or friends and family, to steal personal infor-
mation or money. These scams can occur via phone calls, emails, or social media messages.
Example: A resident in a retirement village we look after got caught in this scam. A virus protection company was impersonated. They were allowed to log into his computer. They then asked him to log into his bank as they suspected it may have been compromised. They then captured his banking details and emptied his account.
Protection tips: Verify the identity of the caller or sender before providing any information. Call them back using phone numbers directly from their website. Be cautious of unsolicited requests for personal information.
3. Malware scams
Malware scams involve tricking victims into downloading malicious software that can steal personal information, lock files for ransom, or spy on online activities. These scams often take the form of fake software updates, email attachments or malicious links.
Example: You receive an email or phone call claiming to be from a well-known software company urging you to download an urgent security update. The link installs malware on your device.
Protection tips: Keep your software and
antivirus programs up to date. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
4. Email phishing
Phishing scams involve sending fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, aiming to trick recipients into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Example: You receive an email from what looks like a popular online retailer claiming there was an issue with your recent order and asking you to click a link to resolve it. The link leads to a fake website designed to steal your login details.
Protection tips: Check the sender’s email address for authenticity. Look for spelling and grammar errors in the email.
5. Spoofing
Spoofing involves disguising communication from an unknown source as being from a known, trusted source.
Example: You receive a call that appears to be from your bank’s phone number, but it’s a scammer using caller ID spoofing.
Protection tips: Be sceptical of unsolicited calls or messages. Verify the source by contacting the organisation directly.
MAKING THE SILLY SEASON SAFER!
Summer is here, children are nearly finished school, and Christmas is coming! However we can’t afford to become complacent about water safety during the silly season, as Royal Life Saving Australia research shows that Australians are twice more likely to drown on a public holiday than any other day of the year.
210 Australians drowned on public holidays over the past 15 years, and holiday makers are at highest risk, being 2.5 times more likely to drown due to lack of knowledge and familiarity with the local water ways. Alcohol is a significant contributor to public holiday drowning deaths, and it’s men that are commonly susceptible to a higher risk, with the report showing men are four times more likely to drown than women. Let’s do all we can this summer to take care of one another and minimise the risks.
These are my top 10 water safety tips for a happy holiday period:
children to swim and continue to attend lessons regularly. It may be tempting to drop lessons as life gets busy but until children reach their age related milestones swimming lessons should remain non-negotiable.
2. Avoid alcohol around water.
3. Check for snags and currents before entering inland waterways and rivers.
inflatable pools, bathtubs, buckets, fishponds, even pet bowls. Children have drowned in less water than a drink bottle can hold.
9. Make supervision of children the priority around all water – delegate a supervisor at all events with the adults talking turns on rotation. Never assume someone else is watching.
10. Learn how to perform CPR and use an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). Drownings remain a risk at home, where we are often most relaxed and assume nothing bad will happen, but we must remain vigilant. Make this weekend the time to check your pool fences and gates and refer to the Royal Life Saving home pool safety checklist to minimise the risks. You can find the checklist at: www.royallifesaving.com.au/ programs/home-pool-safety/ home-pool-safety-checklist. Wishing you a safe summer with your families! JULIE
1. Swimming lessons! Teach
4. Know your limits and never swim alone, or when intoxicated.
5. Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags and learn how to spot rip currents.
6. Children under five should be kept at arm’s reach at all times at the beach, at the pool, and in every other aquatic environment. Accidents happen very quicky.
7. Fence the pool, check and close all gates and make sure all gates are self-latching.
8. Be aware of other household items which represent a drowning risk, i.e. Eskys,
SHELDRAKE
At One Point Health, we can assess your neurovascular status as part of determining your overall diabetic foot risk status. This, in turn, helps us to guide regular treatment intervals if required or to provide advice if it is deemed safe for you to continue to manage your own feet at home.
In order to assess someone’s neurovascular status, we look at two things: neurological assessment and vascular status. High, uncontrolled blood glucose levels are known to cause peripheral neuropathy – nerve damage in the peripheries such as the feet or hands, as well as damage to vascular walls. Over time this can lead to the development of foot ulcers that have difficulty in healing due to the reduced blood flow.
Our role as a podiatrist is to determine and manage an individual’s risk status to assist in preventing these issues from happening.
As part of the neurological
assessment we use both a 10g monofilament and a 128Hz tuning fork to look at what is known as ‘protective sensation’. Reduced protective sensation in the feet increases the risk of development of ulcers due to a reduction in feeling, and therefore someone can step on something sharp and not know about it.
For the vascular assessment we palpate pedal pulses and assess them on an ultrasound known as a doppler. The waveform and sound shown on the doppler helps us to determine whether the quality of the blood flow in the feet.
At a minimum, it is recommended that you have an annual diabetes assessment with your podiatrist to assess and monitor your risk status.
Over time your risk status may change and it is important to be aware of these changes to best reduce your risk of diabetes-related foot complications.
See you next week!
Experts
DON’T BE SILLY IN THE SILLY SEASON!
Personally, I always think of Melbourne Cup Day as the start of the festive season. It seems that the Melbourne Cup functions are the first in a series of Christmas parties and end of year cele brations. It is a great time of year; it also be an expensive time of year!
It is very easy to overspend during this period, and way too many people get themselves into financial trouble. Hopefully, many of you read my article last year and have already allocated funds throughout the year for this period of increased spending, and have your festive period kitty ready to go. If you did, good work and enjoy! Obviously, you still need to be somewhat aware of what you are spending.
Increased spending over this period is inevitable, the key, as always, is to direct the increased spending to areas that add the most value. Too much of our spending adds very little value to our lives. It may not be necessary to buy a new outfit for every one of the functions you are attending. I know my wife loves to get a spray tan and her hair and make-up done for an event, it makes her feel great and this adds value. The difference is that she picks and chooses the events she goes “all out” for, while the others that aren’t
as important, she does her own and hair and make-up.
For me, if I decide not to have a few drinks at some events and drive, I can really reduce the cost of a night by avoiding the need for a taxi or a hotel room. Other nights, I will let my hair down and celebrate.
Christmas presents can really add up to be expensive. For my family, we no longer buy everyone a present, we have a Kris Kringle; we buy and receive a single present, but it is high quality. This works out to be cheaper and better value than buying a large number of inexpensive and lower quality presents.
This is just a few examples of how to direct your spending to the things that are important to you, so you can still enjoy the festive season without breaking the bank to do so.
The thing we really want to avoid is racking up a credit card debt. Ideally, you have put some money aside specifically for this period or have some savings. If you haven’t and will be putting money on the credit card, at least plan in advance how you are going to pay it back. Don’t let this enjoyable time of the year become an expensive millstone for the rest of the year.
We know that as a small busines you just want to be producti ve and not have to worr y about all that “business s tu ”.
But that “business stu ” is so impor tant to your success. That’s where the Western Sydney Business Centre can help. We h av e be en helping small businesses for years with things like Business Planning and Marketing, Pric ing and Sales , Business Resilience and more. Choose a One on One adviso ry sessions with a professional, independent business advisor who will come to you. Or sit in on one of our many tailored webinars or workshops.
Get started to day, call 4721 50 11.
The Western Sydney Business Centre has The
We stern Sydney Business Centre has been delivering business advice as a not for profit organisation for over 36 years winning multiple national business advice awards as both a Centre and as individual advisors. We are consistently being placed in the top 3 busines s advice centres in NSW. We complete over 6,500 hours o f business advice e ver y year wsbusiness.com.au
KELLIE TICKNER
THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF XYLITOL: A WARNING
The holiday season is a time for celebration, indulgence, and often, sweet treats. However, some festive favourites can pose serious dangers to our pets. Among the hidden toxins lurking in many holiday goodies is Xylitol – a common artificial sweetener that is harmless to humans but extremely toxic to dogs.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is widely used in sugarfree chewing gum, sweets, baked goods, toothpaste, and even some medications. While it is slowly absorbed in humans, in dogs, it is absorbed rapidly and triggers a surge in insulin production. This leads to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) and can cause seizures, coma, liver damage, clotting disorders, or even death.
Why is Christmas a risky time? Christmas is filled with tempting treats that often include Xylitol, even in unexpected places.
Holiday items to watch out for include:
• Sugar-free desserts and cookies baked with Xylitol-based sugar substitutes.
• Festive sweets and candies often gifted or placed within easy reach.
• Stocking stuffers and gift baskets containing sugar-free gum or mints.
• Holiday hygiene gifts such as toothpaste and mouthwash, which could be mistakenly
ingested by curious pets.
• Decorations and packaging, such as foil wrappers or discarded gum, can also attract pets and lead to accidental ingestion.
How much is too much?
The amount of Xylitol that can cause toxicity is alarmingly small – just one piece of gum can poison a small dog. Compounding the danger is the fact that many products do not clearly
list their Xylitol concentration, making it difficult to assess the risk. The first symptom of Xylitol ingestion is often vomiting. Other signs include lethargy, diarrhoea, weakness or collapse and seizures. If you suspect your pet has consumed Xylitol, seek immediate veterinary care.
To keep your pets safe during the holidays:
• Store Xylitol-containing products well out of reach.
• Inform guests and family members about the dangers of sharing sweet treats with pets.
• Check ingredient labels carefully when buying products that will be in your home. If your pet ingests Xylitol, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately. Quick action can save lives. Have questions about Xylitol or other potential toxins? Call us at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
Let’s keep your pets safe and your holiday season merry!
Email Alison.Hall@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.
Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.
At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.
Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.
We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.
Want to know more?
Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384
Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au
Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online
Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.
Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384
This week, vivacious Venus (in your sign) trines jolly Jupiter, so you’re at your charismatic Aquarian best as you charm the cynics and dazzle the doubters. Compatible companionship is a must, as you surround yourself with stimulating friends, positive peers and curious colleagues. As writer (and birthday great) Jane Austen wrote, “My idea of good company is the company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.”
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
It’s a fabulous week for many Bulls, especially involving work, career, money and business. Mercury moves forwards on Monday and Venus (your patron planet) forms a trine with prosperity planet Jupiter on Friday. So look out for a fortuitous meeting or a special sign/ synchronicity/opportunity. But you must make the most of good fortune when it comes along. If you procrastinate or fail to recognise the signs, then Lady Luck will promptly pass you by.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
On Monday, Mercury finally moves forwards, so communicating (especially with young children and moody teenagers) should gradually improve. On Wednesday and Thursday, the Sun (your power planet) squares Neptune, so be on alert for confusing information, fake news, and dodgy deals (especially involving friends and finances). Friday is fabulous for romantic relationships, close friendships, socialising, joint ventures and financial matters.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
This week, Mercury moves forwards in your money zone and the Sun shifts into your communication and education zone. So it’s time to be more financially literate, more conversationally engaged, and more curious about the world around you. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, actress and activist Jane Fonda (who turns 87 on Saturday), “Stay curious, keep learning and keep growing.” But friends and finances could be a dodgy mix.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
The Sun/Neptune square (on Wednesday and Thursday) could drain your Piscean energy and sap confidence so pace yourself and prioritise projects. Don’t make commitments unless you have the time and motivation to follow through on your well-meant intentions. If something can be put off until another week, then do so. Communicating with loved ones and colleagues also looks confusing and frustrating, but things should improve from Friday onwards.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Mercury (your ruling planet) moves forwards on Monday. When it comes to work, habits, health and fitness, the more proactive and organised you are, the better the results will be. But Neptune squares the Sun midweek, so a lack of focus, direction and diplomacy could temporarily side-track relationships and confuse you. And don’t let a dubious acquaintance lead you down the primrose path to trouble. Keep your trusty Truth Detector set on high.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Your ruling planet Mercury has been reversing through your home zone, which may have resulted in mistakes, misunderstandings, setbacks and/ or self-doubt (especially involving domestic matters and family members). Thank goodness Mercury finally moves forwards on Monday and – hopefully –you’ve learned a thing or two over the last few weeks. So your motto is from fellow Virgo, actress Lily Tomlin, “The road to success is always under construction.”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Mercury finally moves forwards on Monday morning (in your sign), which boosts your confidence, energy levels, and personal magnetism. But then Neptune squares the Sun on Wednesday/Thursday (in your sign) so, if you indulge in gossip or make vague pronouncements, you could end up in a confusing mess. Smart Sagittarians will have a better week if you slow down, think things through, communicate clearly, and double-check often.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
After three weeks of confusion, chaos, delays and/or dramas, Mercury finally turns direct on Monday morning (Sydney time) – yeah! It starts moving forwards in your travel, education and communication zone, which encourages you to explore exciting new horizons, physically and mentally. The wider your circle of friends and acquaintances, the more influence you will have in the big world outside your door. Being curious and confident are the keys.
CANCER
22 TO JULY 22
With the Sun shifting into your partnership zone, you can’t escape close relationships this week Crabs! And Mercury finally moves forwards on Monday, so don’t approach things with the same old stale attitude. It’s time to recalibrate. If there is a problem: fix it. If there is a misunderstanding: sort it out. If there is too much distance between you and a loved one: get closer. The more positive energy you pour into partnerships, the more enjoyable they will be.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Courtesy of the Sun, the Venus/Jupiter trine, and Mercury turning direct, the buzz words this week are communication and education. Your curiosity is piqued, and you’re keen to connect with a wide range of stimulating people, within your local community and further afield. But Neptune squares the Sun (in your conversation zone) so some relationships will be complicated, and communication could be confusing. Clever Librans will listen and learn!
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
You’re in the mood to let your hair down and party but don’t accept things at face value. With Mercury moving forwards in your mystery zone (and Neptune squaring the Sun) look beneath the surface gloss to discover what’s really going on. And – when you’re buying last-minute presents – Saturn encourages you to choose gifts that are timeless, practical and sturdy. When the Sun transits into Capricorn on Saturday, it’s your turn to sparkle and shine!
Relax & Unwind
GET INTO THE SUMMER
One of the coolest things I’ve done this year was go to school.
My school had a classroom.
My school had a teacher.
My school had gin.
Lots and lots of gin.
That’s right… I went to Gin School – and bloody loved it!
Recently, my wife and I were invited to Manly Spirits Co. to experience their $190 per person, two-hour Gin School class at their fancy Brookvale distillery.
Manly Spirits Co. are one of the leaders in the Australian gin and alcohol market and it’s no surprise why.
At their purpose-built distilling laboratory, my wife and I sat down with a gin & tonic in hand, and not only did we dive into the art of distilling, but we learned step by step how to craft Manly Spirits’ award-winning gin.
As we sat down at our round wooden table, we got to select from dozens of native and exotic botanicals to create our own personalised flavour profile.
With help from our excellent teacher Sasha, we were both able to create our own unique gin blend that we wouldn’t be able to find on liquor store shelves anywhere!
“THIS WAS A REALLY COOL AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCE FROM START TO FINISH”
With our gin ‘cooking’ away in the neat-looking distilling equipment nearby, Sasha treated us to a tasty antipasto platter as well as another gin cocktail as she kept a close eye on our brew.
Following the hour-long distillation process, we finally got to sample and name our unique creations (I called mine Festive Choc Orange Gin) before bottling them up and personalising them with our special bottle labels.
Like I said in the opener – this was a really cool and unique experience from start to finish and one that I would highly recommend to friends, family gatherings, or special events like hens or bucks parties.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast like me or just looking for a one-of-a-kind activity to do on a weekend with your partner, Manly Spirits’ Gin School is an intimate and must-do experience!
After leaving the best school ever, my wife and I retreated to our nearby accommodation for a rest, the recently refurbished Mercure Sydney Manly Warringah.
While this property doesn’t have views of the Pacific Ocean, it is situated in a prime location for any Northern Beaches getaway.
The hotel’s friendly General Manager Scott Bear dubbed the property “the gem of the Northern Beaches” and I can see his point! Located in Brookvale, directly opposite Manly Sea Eagles Leagues Club and a five-minute walk from Brookvale Oval, the Mercure Sydney Manly Warringah is just a short drive away from beautiful Manly, Dee Why and Collaroy beaches as well as the fabulous Warringah Mall shopping centre.
The three-level hotel comprised of 120 rooms with a private kitchenette, smart TV, air conditioning, iron and a safe. While services included on-site parking, free Wi-Fi, a laundry, 24-hour reception and a self-check-in desk.
Perhaps one of my favourite things about this family-friendly property though (apart from its location) was its restaurant, the Distrikt Press Café.
The hotel bills Distrikt Press as “your home away from home”, with dynamic spaces to sit, work or play, as well as flexible service styles and eating options.
I must admit, District Press’ buffet breakfast was sensational to wake up to and their all-day dining menu – which featured snacks, pizza, toasties and desserts – was perfect for those random hunger cravings.
The Gin School lab at Manly Spirits Co in Brookvale.
Having a drink at Bucketty’s.
The atmosphere at Bucketty’s brewery on Saturday night.
Breakfast at Distrikt Press was delicious.
SPIRIT ON NORTHERN BEACHES
Speaking of cravings, once the gin started to wear off, we couldn’t wait to get stuck into our next boozy location that night, Bucketty’s Brewing Co.
I swear my wife and I aren’t big drinkers, but after a long and tough year, this weekend away was very much needed!
Bucketty’s is a popular (and
“THIS
I mean popular) brewery located a less than five-minute drive from the hotel along Orchard Road, Brookvale.
This up-and-coming area is full of breweries and the like, but judging by the line to get in during a wet and dreary Saturday evening, Bucketty’s was the place to be!
Bucketty’s is a large indoor-outdoor venue with 15 regularly changing taps
serving up fresh, delicious beers and ciders. The heaving bar also serves up some great Aussie wines, spirits and cocktails for the non-beer lovers.
Bucketty’s also has a decent food menu as well as live bands multiple nights a week on their dedicated stage, showcasing local artists. I must say, the atmosphere at Bucketty’s was incredible and unlike any brewery I’ve visited before.
Please put this on your itinerary!
The Northern Beaches can often feel like a million miles away but, in reality, it’s not. It’s just over an hour from western Sydney and features some wonderful places that you won’t find anywhere else in our wonderful city.
From breweries and distilleries like Manly Spirits Co. and Bucketty’s to incredible places to eat like Chargrill Charlie’s and Butterboy Bakery, the Northern Beaches is more than just beaches, it’s one of my favourite destinations of the year, and there’s so much to do.
The Mercure Hotel Sydney Manly Warringah was the perfect base for a Northern Beaches getaway.
25.
26.
32.
35. Crisp
54. Cord tuft
58.
59. Chicken
61.
63. Blood-sucking
64. Craftiest
65. Drink
66. Diction
68. Foolish
71. Escape
72.
74. Fertiliser
76.
78. Patch
80.
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: CAR WORDS
CAR PARK
CARAMEL
CARBON
CARDBOARD
CARDIGAN
CARETAKER
CARGO
CARNATION
CARNIVAL
CAROL
CAROUSEL
CARPENTER
CARRIAGE
CART
CHILDCARE
CREDIT CARD
MACARONI
SCARCE
VICAR
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about famous Christmas carols in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. In ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’, how many swans are swimming?
2. The words for ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ come from a poem by Cecil Frances Alexander. Who wrote the music?
3. In which famous carol does ‘the little Lord Jesus lay down His sweet head’?
4. ‘Joy to the World’ is based on which book of the Bible?
5. Which Christmas carol is also the third best-selling single in world history?
6. What was the original title of ‘The Little Drummer Boy’?
7. ‘Jingle Bells’ was originally written for which holiday in the United States?
Gauntlett
‘Silent Night’
‘Carol of the Drum’
Thanksgiving
m i n i s u d o k u
ALFAKODO
Use the key to crack the telephone code and find out what the man is saying on his mobile phone.
Letters A to Z have a number value, some are shown in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Fill in 1 to 6, in each row across and down, and in each rectangle.
Letters A to Z have a number value Some are shown in the right hand cells Create remaining values using clues in centre cells
Next chapter: what we know so far about the LandCruiser 300 Series SUV range
Toyota’s LandCruiser 300 Series SUV range is set to gain the latest generation safety and multimedia technologies across the six-variant line-up when the refreshed range arrives in Australian showrooms in the second quarter of 2025.
The legendary off-roader will also be augmented with additional comfort and convenience features to further improve its appeal to off-roaders, adventurers and families alike.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the new features would enhance the considerable desirability of Toyota’s flagship four-wheel drive SUV.
“For generations, the incredible capability, performance and reliability of the LandCruiser has resonated strongly with Australian customers, and we’ve seen that continue with the LandCruiser 300 Series since its launch in 2021,” he said.
“This latest upgrade with its improved safety and multimedia technologies and enhanced equipment will make the LandCruiser 300 Series even more appealing, whether transporting the family around town or heading into the outback for an off-road adventure.”
All LandCruiser 300 Series variants from the entry-level GX grade to the top-of-the-range
Sahara ZX gain an enhanced range of Toyota Safety Sense active safety technologies.
This latest generation driver assistance technology now includes lane trace assist with steering wheel vibration, and emergency steering assist – functions that were previously only offered on VX grade and above – and emergency driving stop system, all standard across the range.
All GXL and above grades that are fitted with blind spot monitor also gain additional functionality with the addition of Toyota’s safe exit assist feature that warns of vehicles
or cyclists approaching from the rear while the GXL grade also gains rear parking support brake, which can help avoid collisions with objects and vehicles when reversing.
A vast array of information and entertainment is provided by the latest generation Toyota multimedia system with connected navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the range.
On GX and GXL grades, the system functions are displayed on an 8-inch touchscreen display with all other grades featuring a larger 12.3-inch display.
Toyota Connected Services safety and convenience functionality has also been expanded with new features for all LandCruiser 300 Series variants including remote air conditioning operation, vehicle and recent trip information, and additional alerts, through the myToyota Connect smartphone app.
GX and GXL grades benefit from the addition of a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster that offers a range of customisable display options, while all other variants now feature a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
In addition to the safety and multimedia technology upgrades across the range, several variants gain additional equipment to improve comfort and convenience with the GX grade benefitting from new power adjustment for the tilt and telescopic steering wheel, front LED interior lighting and guidelines for the reversing camera.
The GXL steps up the luxury with new suede-like fabric upholstery, eight-way powered driver’s seat adjustment with lumbar support, four-zone automatic climate control (previously dual-zone), a centre console cool box and 40/20/40 split-folding second-row seats with a centre armrest.
Further details on the LandCruiser 300 Series range including pricing and full specification will be announced closer to its Australian arrival in the second quarter of 2025.
NATHAN TAYLOR
2021 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series Sahara ZX.
A Giant dream comes true for rookie talent Josaia
New GWS Giants draftee Josaia Delana always wanted to be a professional athlete from a very young age.
With a proud Fijian background coupled with growing up in western Sydney, it appeared to many that rugby league was going to be the path for him.
“I played league since I was five-years-old,” Delana told the Weekender
“Since I could walk, I was picking up and kicking a footy.”
Unbelievably, Delana’s first rugby league game was over in France because his dad was playing professional footy over there at the time.
“I lived in France with him for a year and I came back to Australia when I was seven,” he said.
“For many years, I played rugby league and enjoyed it a lot. I made a lot of good mates, but I didn’t enjoy the physical component of rugby league.”
As he got older, Delana started to turn off from the game when he was forced to tackle players often twice his size.
“When versing the big western Sydney teams, you would often come up against huge Polynesian boys that were 80, 90, 100kg and I was a 40kg stick – it wasn’t fair,” he said.
“It got to a point where I wasn’t enjoying it
very much and Mum and Dad were big on me having fun when I was young.”
While Delana was losing the passion for rugby league, at the same time he was also dipping his toe into other sports like rugby union, AFL and soccer.
Despite not being the tallest or strongest kid in his team, AFL intrigued him a lot and his natural flair and energy made him quite good at it.
“When I was younger, I knew I wanted to make it professionally in sport. Originally, it was going to be rugby league, but once I shifted my focus to AFL, bit by bit I learned what I needed to do to get drafted,” he said.
At 16, Delana put all his eggs into the AFL basket and joined the Giants Academy.
Delana flourished at the Giants Academy, playing eight games for the Giants VFL side this year and representing the Allies on
four occasions. The nippy small forward’s best performance for the Allies came in their National Championship win over Western Australia, where he picked up 19 disposals and seven tackles in four matches across the Championships.
Recently, Delana’s hard work, disci pline and persistence paid off when he was drafted by his hometown club, the GWS Giants, as a Category B Rookie in the 2025 AFL Draft.
Delana, now 18, said getting to train and be around his footy heroes every day is a dream come true.
“It’s an amazing experience! To train with the boys, eat with the boys, be in the locker room – to be equal to the boys almost, it’s just a feel-good moment,” he said.
“I’ve worked so hard throughout the years to be where I am today, and it feels good to get the reward that I’m basically a professional athlete now.”
Now, he’s preparing himself for a long career.
“For me, my ultimate goal is longevity in the game. I really want to be a big ambassador for my community, my family, my culture, my history and, to do that, I want to make a stamp in the game and be around for a long time,” he said.
DISTRICT TENNIS ASSOCIATION
Josaia Delana on Draft night.
NATHAN TAYLOR
Panthers go back-to-back
Four-time Premiers named Australasia’s best sporting team for second year in a row
The Penrith Panthers have won a $10,000 grant after being named Australasia’s Best Sporting Team by Gain Line Analytics.
It was the second time in as many years that the Panthers have taken out the prestigious title after winning the past four NRL premierships as well as being the 2020 NRL runners up.
According to Gain Line, the team is widely credited with having one of the outstanding talent development and retention programs in the country, which is reflected in their outcomes.
“We are extremely proud to be named Australasia’s Best Sporting Team once again,” Panthers Rugby League CEO, Matt Cameron said.
“This continued success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire club –including the players, staff, board and members.
Sydney-based actuary, Douglas Isles, generously donated this year’s prize of $10,000 to the Panthers’ chosen charity.
“I love people, numbers and sport and having been introduced to Gain Line’s work, I have learned so much more about the role of cohesion on success both on the field and in business,” he said.
“It’s great to help support a cause like the Panthers Foundation, which does so much work in the community.”
Gain Line GM of Sport, Simon Strachan, said the Panthers are the “benchmark club” when it comes to long-term success.
“We as a business often use them as an example how to achieve on-field success when we are working with organisations in Australia and abroad,” he said.
The club nominated the Panthers Foundation to receive the $10,000 grant in recognition of their success.
“I’d like to pay tribute to our head coach Ivan Cleary, whose exceptional leadership continues to guide us to new heights, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. This success is a result of careful planning, strategic development and the patience shown by our leadership. It’s essential that we stay focused and keep pushing forward.”
“The Panthers Foundation’s aim is to be a source of community pride and something that our fans and members resonate with and endeavour to be a part of,” Panthers Foundation Chairman, Peter Graham said.
“We will achieve our goal by having a positive and lasting impact on the members of our community through inclusive education, local community and participation opportunities.
Young basketballer is a star on the rise
Local Year 10 student Jackson Loy may be holding a ball and wearing a basketball jersey in this image, but he does a lot more than just shoot hoops.
The latest Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star winner has been dominating in basketball in recent years, but he’s also excelling in a range of sports including AFL, Futsal and Softball.
The 16-year-old started playing basketball two years ago after getting involved through his school, Kingswood High.
Jackson went from the beginner’s team to first division in a flash and this year was chosen to represent New South Wales at the 2024 Ivor Burge Championships.
“I played alright for New South Wales and got picked in the Australian team,” Jackson told the Weekender
“It was scary representing my state for the first time. Everyone was older than me, taller than me, bigger than me.
“Getting picked for Australia made me feel better because it
meant I actually did something out there.”
Next year, Jackson will travel overseas for the first time as an athlete when he plays basketball at the 2025 Virtus World Basketball Championship in Kazakhstan.
The Championships, which will be held in June, features top-level competition for athletes with an intellectual impairment.
Jackson said he loves playing basketball whether it’s for his club team Nepean on Friday nights or at a higher level like for New South Wales or Australia.
“I love having fun, passing the ball off to people and trying to get the win,” the big Sydney Kings fan said.
“I want to keep pursuing basketball and see how far I can go with it.”
On top of his basketball endeavours, the Penrith resident has also represented New South Wales in AFL, and early next year will represent his state in Futsal down in Melbourne.
“Jackson does every sport humanly possible,” his teacher at Kingswood High, Frances Cassettari said.
“He’s pretty good at any sport
when he puts his mind to it and has a busy schedule with fitting in all the different sports that he does.”
Nominated by his proud aunty Jenni, Jackson’s PVSF Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club.
PVSF Junior Sports Star of the Month winners take home a cool $350 each for their efforts.
If you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. Nomination forms are available at the PVSF website at www.pvsf.org.au. Nomi nate now!
“We are extremely delighted and grateful to be the beneficiaries of this grant – support like this is how we can continue to achieve our goals and impact more people in our community.”
“In fact there are some sporting teams that actively use the Panthers as a model for their own development and pathways structures.”
Runners-up to the mighty Panthers this year were the Brisbane Lions AFLW team, Sydney FC’s A-League Women’s team, the North Melbourne FC Kangaroos, and the Western Australia One Day Cricket team.
NATHAN TAYLOR
The Penrith Panthers are the best sporting team in Australasia. Photo: NRL Images.
NATHAN TAYLOR
Penrith’s Jackson Loy is the lastest PVSF Junior Sport Star. Photo: Melinda Jane.
DUCKS AIM TO CAUSE BOILOVER
Story continued from » p.80
Standing in the Ducks’ way of consecutive Gridiron NSW titles are the Cubs, who went through the entire 10-round season plus playoffs without a loss.
“The Cubs were our only loss for the season,” White said.
“Sydney Uni are a really strong unit. They are a force, and they are always tough.
“They seem to have a really good squad and it’s going to be a tough test for us to go back-to-back – it’s not going to be a ‘cake walk’ that’s for sure.”
The 2024 Kookaburra Bowl between the Nepean Ducks and Sydney University Cubs will be played at Brookvale Oval this Saturday at 9am. Supporters are encouraged to watch all three finals, with the Opal Bowl (Women’s Final) due to be played at 12pm and the Waratah Bowl (Men’s Final) set down for 3pm.
Panthers strike gold
Fans flock to pre-order new strip
The Penrith Panthers have struck gold with their new alternate jersey for 2025, with pre-orders through the roof before Christmas.
After months of speculation, the jersey was finally unveiled to the public last week with scores of fans eager to get their hands on the winning black and gold number.
“The bold and captivating black jersey, adorned with striking gold logos, will make its debut when the Panthers take the field in front of the global spotlight to face off against the Cronulla Sharks at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas,” the club said in a statement.
“The front of the jersey features four gold stripes, representing the unprecedented reign
as NRL Premiers from 2021 to 2024, while the stripes on the sleeves are a nod to our inaugural premiership in 1991 and iconic triumph against the Sydney Roosters in 2003.”
Penrith’s two newest and high profile recruits Blaize Talagi and Isaiah Papali’i were the first players to don the new kit for promotional photos, prompting fans to salivate as to what’s to come in season 2025.
The new alternate jersey and alternate shorts are both now available to pre-order at the Panthers Shop, with the men’s jersey retailing for $159.99, while the women’s jersey is $149.99 and the youth jersey is $129.99.
The new alternate jersey will be worn in selected games next season along with the club’s main black ‘home’ jersey and pink ‘away’ jersey.
New recruits Blaize Talagi and Isaiah Papali’i.
A previous meeting between the Ducks and Cubs. Photo: Jim Walker.
NATHAN TAYLOR
SPORTS SHORTS
WITH NATHAN TAYLOR
Familiar face returns to Penrith Rams
AFL: In some exciting news in the local AFL community, the Penrith Rams have announced the return of former head coach Kevin Kirk for the upcoming 2025 AFL Sydney season. Kirk returns to the Rams after leading the club to first grade premierships in 2018 and 2020. Kirk has an extensive football resume and is looking forward to leading all teams to success in season 2025. In other coaching news, David Sanders returns after a year at the helm of Penrith’s women’s program. An experienced player and coach who has spent time in both WA and Sydney football regions, Sanders is looking forward to continuing to develop the program and go a step further to winning a premiership this coming season. Michael Bottrill will carry on leading Penrith’s reserves team after a Finals berth in 2024. Bottrill has a wealth of football knowledge and experience to draw from and is excited to continue to take the team a step further next season.
BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have announced several new signings ahead of the 2025 NBL1 East competition. Committed to Penrith next year are Ben Kearins, Zeke Evans, Brodie Schwarzer, Josh Kalwy, Chloe Williams, Sofia Hunt and Tatiana Beaumont. More signings will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
BASKETBALL: A Girls Only School Holiday Camp will be held at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre on Wednesday, January 22 from 9.30am to 10.30am. The camp will be open to girls aged between 5-12-years-old and costs $15. Players should register their attendance via Basketball Connect or phone up the Penrith Basketball office.
BASKETBALL: 3x3 Hustle is back in Penrith on Thursday, January 23. Get your friends together now and start building your teams for this exciting format of the game. To register, visit 3x3hustle.com/events.
RUGBY UNION: To mark the club’s 60th anniversary next year, the Penrith Emus have reproduced the club’s original 1965 jersey to purchase (pictured right). The sensational-looking brown and gold sleeved jersey will be sold through major manufacturer O’Neills in limited runs, with the first run now open. To purchase one, visit the club’s Facebook page
RUGBY UNION: The 2025 Penrith Emus Board has been confirmed, with Adam Fletcher remaining on as President for their return to Subbies rugby next season. Other
members of the Board include Ian Joliffe as Vice President and Chairman, Colin Cheong as Secretary, Kevin Carlin as Financial Director, while Warren Walsh, Mark Cannon and Ray McDonald will all serve as directors.
CRICKET: For the second week in a row, Penrith’s One-Day Match has been abandoned due to rain. Penrith were due to face Northern District at Mark Taylor Oval in Round 9 of the Belvidere Cup, however torrential rain on
Saturday forced the fixture to be cancelled. All going well with the weather, Penrith will play Mosman this Saturday at Howell Oval from 10am.
CRICKET: Penrith have suffered a narrow loss to St George-Sutherland in Round 9 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a T20 match, St George-Sutherland won the toss and elected to bowl. At the crease, Penrith put up a gettable 3/93 after 20 overs. Opener Kiera Jobson led the way with 43 runs. When St George-Sutherland went into bat, they weren’t troubled at all – reaching Penrith’s target with 4.1 overs and nine wickets in hand. Penrith will hit the road this Sunday to battle Sydney University at St Paul’s Oval.
RUGBY LEAGUE: Sad news last week with the passing of former Penrith Panthers star Peter Langmack, aged 73. Langmack played 57 games for the Panthers in the 1970s and famously scored five tries in one match for Penrith in 1974. It remains a club record. RIP.
BASEBALL: Penrith Baseball have announced current Team Australia Baseball and Sydney Blue Sox pitcher Liam Doolan as a guest coach for their upcoming Summer Development Program – Pitching Clinic. Doolan, who impressed during the 2022 College season with the Tennessee Wesleyan Bulldogs in the Appalachian Athletic Conference, delivered outstanding performances with a 2.15 ERA
across 32 games. He pitched 54.1 innings, striking out 74 batters, and recorded an impressive 5-0 win/loss record with 10 saves. In 2023, Doolan continued to showcase his skills in the Minor Leagues with the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Single-A affiliate, Rancho Cucamonga Quakes in the California League. He maintained a 3.63 ERA over 20 games, with 39.2 innings pitched and 43 strikeouts, achieving a 3-0 win/ loss record and 1 save. Doolan’s return to the Sydney Blue Sox is a significant addition to the roster, as he was previously part of the team during the 2022/23 ABL Season. As a current member of Team Australia, he also represented the country at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, further highlighting his experience and talent on the international stage. Doolan is a former student at St Dominic’s College in Kingswood.
FOOTBALL: Following a bye last weekend, the Western Sydney Wanderers will return to the pitch this Saturday to play the Brisbane Roar in Round 8 of the A-League Men’s competition. The match will be played under lights at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta at 7.35pm. The Wanderers will go into the match against the last-placed Roar as red-hot favourites Roar, having won prior to the bye down in Melbourne.
FOOTBALL: Western Sydney’s A-League Women’s team will also return to the field this Saturday when they take on Western United at CommBank Stadium at 4.40pm. The last-placed Wanderers are yet to taste victory this season and will be coming up against a confident United side fresh off a win.
GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message me on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.
Kevin Kirk (centre) heads up the new Penrith Rams coaching panel next season.
The Emus are going back to the future.
Liam Doolan is coming back to Penrith.
SPORT
QUACKING BATTLE
The Nepean Ducks will be aiming for back-to-back championships when they face the undefeated Sydney University Cubs in this Saturday morning’s blockbuster Kookaburra Bowl.
The two best Colts teams in the competition will battle it out in the U19’s Final at Brookvale Oval from 9am.
Sydney University won every single match on their way to this weekend’s decider, while the Nepean Ducks’ only loss
this season was to the Cubs.
Speaking with the Weekender, Nepean
Ducks President Darren White said he’s
“stoked” to see his troops back in the final once again.
“The boys put in a lot of effort during the off-season and it’s paying off now,” he said.
“They just get in and get the job done.
They don’t try and go after records; they just execute their game plan, and the results speak for themselves.”
The Ducks defeated the Wollongong
Mustangs 32-12 in last Saturday’s semi final at Neptune Park in Revesby. It was
the second time in the space of two weeks that the two sides faced one another.
“The boys were excited for a moment after the game, but they knew the hard work was not over yet,” White said.
“When we played the Mustangs the previous week, it was a lot closer affair due to the wet weather but last Saturday, the boys executed well when it mattered the most.”
Having won last year’s Kookaburra Bowl at the same venue, the Ducks have somewhat of a mini advantage over Sydney University in this Saturday’s fixture,
however White says the Ducks team isn’t a carbon copy of last season’s Champions.
“There is an advantage to have already done it before, but there are a few of our players from last year that aged out, some of our leaders in the team,” White said.
“Fortunately, we’ve had others step it up this year, so it will be interesting to see how they handle the big dance differently.
“The coaching staff has been working hard to get everyone prepared, so they can put their best foot forward on the day.”
Story continues on » p. 78
NATHAN TAYLOR
A previous meeting between the Ducks and Cubs. Photo: Jim Walker.
