Western Weekender April 14 2023

PANTHERS MAKE STATEMENT AS DYLAN BAGS FOUR TRIES

WIN SEALED WITH A KISS

The Panthers have declared this era of success is far from finished, racking up 97 points in two weeks and moving into second spot on the NRL ladder. Last week, Dylan Edwards grabbed four tries as the once under-rated star staked his claim as one of the game’s most dominant fullbacks. Extra Time: 16 pages of Panthers content inside today. See centre pull-out.

Delicious seafood, grilled fish, battered or crumbed in-store. Tender chicken, burgers, value packs, tasty salads, vegetarian and vegan options

Dylan Edwards with his partner Nadine after the win over Manly. Photo: NRL Images.

Karen’s plan for Penrith

New State MP’s first sit-down interview: McKeown pledges to listen to locals

important and what needs to be changed.”

Karen McKeown cannot believe that she will be getting paid to talk in Parliament, but listening to the community to invoke change will be her not so secret weapon to having a successful term as the new State Member for Penrith.

After an intensive campaign leading up to the NSW Election on March 25, that saw Labor dominate around the state, McKeown has been in a state of “limbo” until the declaration of results for each Legislative Assembly district on April 14.

Still having to pinch herself that she was able to pry the seat out of former long serving MP Stuart Ayres’ grip following her unsuccessful attempt in 2019, the stars aligned with the former Mayor.

“I think there was certainly an appetite for change coupled with the policies we were putting forward that appealed to people such as dealing with cost-of-living and tolls, plus I have been in the field for a long time so people knew me which helps,” McKeown said.

“With incumbency people can know your name but if you have been in a while and issues haven’t been sorted there can be that sense of frustration, which worked in my favour.”

Raring and ready to take on the role, improving frontline services, which was a major Labor platform during the election, is front of mind for McKeown.

“We already went to Penrith Public School through the department with Prue (Car) as the Deputy Premier, which was great, but I want to be able to get out there and visit some schools, and the hospital is a must do,” she said.

“I want to visit fire stations, the ambulance centre and have a meeting with the Police Area Commander because I don’t pretend to have the solutions, but these people do and when you talk to them, they let you know what’s

Rotary Club

A weekly “Coffee with your MP” could also be on the cards at different locations around the electorate as McKeown strives to be “accessible and visible” during the next four years.

A task for the Penrith City Councillor of the last 18 years, will now be juggling her roles in the two levels of government, something she thinks she will be able to master.

“There is legislation in place that says if you are elected you can continue on Council until the next election or for 18 months, whichever comes first because so many people tend to get elected to other tiers of government from local government so they don’t want to start by-elections because it is expensive for the community,” she said.

“That money can be better spent by Council, so it will be a matter of time management but as a mum of four who has studied for a degree and worked full-time, I think I will be able to do that quite well.”

As the Penrith region continues to develop, the new MP will ensure that her constituents get what they deserve.

“Anything that is in the pipeline we have committed to carrying forward and now it is my job to look at what’s in the best interest for Penrith,” she said.

There’s no question one of the most challenging projects for McKeown moving forward will be the planned Penrith Stadium overhaul.

“I have to be briefed on the business case for the stadium as there was a heap of community consultation done, and the figures. I just worry that the cost of construction will blow out, but I will get all the information and sit down to have a very robust discussion with the Treasurer around such things,” she said.

“Others believe that Penrith has had an overabundance of infrastructure and buildings going on but it is because we are a growing city and I always argue back that it is because we need that in order to keep up, so I am going to be out there loud and proud as a voice for Penrith.”

Karen McKeown is ready to be the new Penrith MP. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Westfield flags upgrade

Long-awaited makeover of Penrith’s Hoyts cinema complex finally in the works

EMILY FESZCZUK

Movie lovers rejoice! You could soon be seeing your favourite flicks in luxury with a major upgrade slated for Hoyts Penrith.

The refurbishments, which will also see two new LUX cinemas added, are part of a larger project that will include the creation of a new three-level dining precinct at Penrith Plaza.

Scentre Group, which owns and operates Westfield Penrith, has lodged a Development Application (DA) with Penrith City Council for works worth over $18 million for the shopping complex at 569-595 High Street, Penrith.

Carrying on from the recent revamp that saw the addition of Holey Moley and Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, along with a Coles supermarket and a host of new eateries inside, the proposal will be focusing on the corner of Jane and Riley Street where the existing Hoyts is located.

The ground floor of Riley Street is described as an activated pedestrianised zone with ample food and

beverage offerings, that currently offers direct access into Level 1 of the shopping centre and up to the Hoyts Cinema on Level 2.

The Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) said that, if approved, the upgrades will “revitalise and activate” the existing Westfield

Penrith including five new retail tenancies.

“Refurbishment works to the Hoyts Cinema, including alterations and additions to create two new LUX auditoriums and LUX lounge,” it said.

“Reconfiguration and enhance-

ment of the Riley Street entrance with vertical circulation via the Basement, Level 1, 2 and 3 to provide an improved arrival experience and circulation.”

LUX is Hoyts’ premium dine-in cinema experience, with a bespoke luxury menu, a premium wine

selection and comfort with cutting edge sounds and visuals.

Modifications will also be undertaken to the Riley Street façade to create a “visually interesting and modern” look, and a reconfiguration of the restaurants along the ground floor will make way for three new restaurant sites.

The SEE states that a new restaurant will be added on Level 2 and a new Level 3 will be created to offer a restaurant and bar on the rooftop. Internal amendments to car parking spaces across the basement and Level 2 will have to occur for the work, which will result in a loss of around 42 spaces.

There will be new lifts, escalators and stairs added to connect the levels while providing an “open and light entry experience” that contributes to the “modern and luxurious” feel of the space.

“The retail and cinema components of this application will continue the revitalisation of Penrith City Centre by providing diverse entertainment and leisure offerings in Penrith,” the DA said. Scentre Group and Hoyts were contacted for comment, but neither responded before deadline.

An artist’s impression of what the new Riley Street entrance to Westfield could look like.

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The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Feel-good move wouldn’t be right

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The never-ending Jarryd Hayne rape case took its most dramatic turn yet last week when the former Parramatta Eels star was found guilty of sexual assault at what was his third trial.

Our only sympathies here should be with the victim, who has herself had to re-live that night in 2018 over and over again given the repeated trials.

Rightly, she won’t be named through this process but we can only hope she’s been given the support she needs to heal and get through this dark chapter of her life.

There is a trivial side-note to this case that is likely to spark intense debate in the coming weeks and months, once Hayne is sentenced and when the case is done once and for all (pending any further appeals).

That trivial issue is whether Hayne should be stripped of his Dally M Player of the Year honours he received in 2009 and 2014.

There is a feeling that the NRL, which has said it would review the matter but hasn’t swayed one way or another, may well attempt to erase Hayne from its history books.

But this would not be the right approach to a difficult and delicate situation.

We can’t beat around the bush here: Hayne has been convicted of a horrendous crime, and rugby league is right to want nothing to do with the bloke moving forward.

So yes, we can cancel Jarryd Hayne, to use a modern term.

But we cannot erase the past.

It will do nothing to have a blank space in the spot where Hayne’s name sits on the list of Dally M winners.

Hayne was the best individual player in the 2009 season and what he did a decade later has no relevance to that fact.

In 2014 he shared the honour with Jonathan Thurston: would Thurston be given solo recognition if the NRL washed its past of Hayne?

Awards like this are written in ink, not pencil. They are not intended to be erased regardless of what may happen in the future.

First, it sends the wrong message. Rather than put its hands over its eyes and declare

there’s nothing to see here, the NRL should own Hayne’s place in its history and treat it as a warning that everything can be taken from you so quickly if you step out of line.

Hayne’s name on that list can be a reminder to young players that they are not above the law, and of the NRL’s responsibility to ensure it provides education to its players.

Second, it sets a dangerous precedent. What crime is considered serious enough to get you wiped from the list?

After all, previous Dally M winners include Ben Barba, Todd Carney and Andrew Johns – players who at various stages of their lives have been far from the example the NRL would like from its most honoured individuals.

But the bottom line is that the NRL cannot take this high and mighty approach when it allows players back into its fold who are convicted of serious crimes.

You can do jail time and still be welcomed back into first grade rugby league.

Rugby league is a game of second chances and it’s OK to open your arms in support if that’s the kind of sport you want to be. In many ways, it can be applauded.

But you can’t then decide to read the room differently in a case like Hayne’s and retrospectively remove individual honours.

Rugby league should distance itself from Hayne in the future, but it cannot erase him from its past.

Panthers culture is just fine, thanks

You get the feeling the likes of Paul Kent sit in front of their televisions with a pen in hand, noting if a Penrith try celebration was too over the top, or if Ivan Cleary dared speak his mind at a post-match press conference.

And it would indeed be from their lounge rooms such criticism would originate because the loudest critics of Penrith haven’t set foot near the club in this current era.

It’s an important fact to remember whenever you’re told Penrith’s culture is a problem, or certain players or coaches are mugs or acting without class.

Ivan Cleary holds two press conferences every single week, as per NRL rules. When was the last time Paul Kent, Phil Rothfield or any of Penrith’s loudest critics attended one?

When was the last time they actually took the chance to put proper and direct questions to him about the club’s culture and approach, versus taking shots from afar?

Every single week, players are put up for media interviews – an opportunity to discuss pretty much anything, with restrictions rarely placed on topics.

When was the last time Paul Kent headed down the M4 to take up an opportunity?

The media was recently invited to tag along with Jarome Luai when he visited local school kids. The perfect opportunity to see the real Luai; and understand the positive impact he’s having in certain sections of the community in particular.

Again, Penrith’s harshest critics were nowhere to be seen, presumably busy replaying a wayward best man speech that a young bloke would probably prefer to have a do-over on. Not the first time a 20-something bloke has gone a bit over the top at a wedding.

This is not necessarily a criticism of Kent, Rothfield and co. Their days of on-theground journalism, chasing players at media sessions and tapping out your day-to-day interviews are behind them.

But the next time one of them, or one of their colleagues, decides it’s time to unleash on the Panthers and the club’s culture again, remember to ask yourself this question: How would they know?

“What crime is considered serious enough to get you wiped from the list?”

you're setting health and fitness goals, there's nothing better than a personal trainer to show you the right way to exercise, motivate and keep you on track so you make your goals a reality.

Henry Street centre heading to market

The site where the Henry Lawson Centre sits, that could be replaced with hundreds of residential apartments along with dining and retail options, is now up for grabs.

The Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford), which owns 61-79 Henry Street, Penrith, is now looking to sell the mixed-use commercial site.

Afford is currently going through the planning process to amend Penrith Local Environment Planning (LEP) controls to allow residential accommodation as an additional permitted use on the 16,000 square metre site.

If successful, there was a $417 million plan to potentially deliver a hotel tower with tourist and restaurant facilities at street level along with commercial and retail spaces.

Multi-storey residential apartment blocks would also be included providing 455 homes with a percentage of affordable and accessible dwellings for seniors and people with disabilities, as well as health services and communal facilities such as a gym and pool.

While the approvals stage is still underway, it has now made the decision to sell the complex to enable the organisation to “focus its resources on its purpose and client-centred service delivery for people with disability”.

“We are a disability services organisation first and foremost,” Afford CEO Jo Toohey said.

“Our priority is our clients and the provision of quality, safe and meaningful service and programs

that supports people with disability to achieve their goals. We will be investing the income generated from the sale of the Henry Street site in the development of our programs and services, safe and fit-for-purpose building improvements and in our digital infrastructure the benefit of our clients into the future.”

Afford currently runs community services for clients at one of the units located in the Henry Lawson Centre, which will continue to operate from the site until further notice.

At the Penrith City Council Ordinary Meeting on March 20, Council endorsed the Planning Proposal for finalisation, and agreed that Council and the proponent would continue to work towards finalisation of an acceptable Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) Offer, which is to be reported to a future Council meeting for consideration.

It also recommended that the Planning Proposal be forwarded to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment in accordance with the LEP plan making process for finalisation, after the VPA has been executed.

The organisation said it will be continuing to work with Council on the planning process whilst the sale of the site is being undertaken, and it is hopeful of finalising this over the coming months.

The Weekender understands that a new owner could leave the site as it is or can continue with the Planning Proposal and if it is given the green light, then proceed to lodge a Development Application for the project that will be in line with the approved allowances.

Repeat offender sent to prison

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Aman who stole a massage appliance from a St Marys store will spend six months behind bars.

Roberto Moscatelli, 31, fronted Penrith Local Court on Thursday, April 5, charged with ‘larceny’.

According to a set of facts tendered to the court, he visited Aldi in St Marys around 10.30am on January 31.

It is alleged that Moscatelli picked up a massage appliance from the display counter and placed it into a green Woolworths bag before exiting the store.

About 2pm on February 16, police attended his home and arrested him for unrelated stealing offences.

Moscatelli was conveyed to Mt Druitt Police Station where he was taken into custody.

He was represented by a Legal Aid lawyer who told the court that her client suffers from schizophrenia, bipolar and attention-deficit disorder (ADD).

She said that “his ADD coupled with a lack of money” led to her client’s offending.

Magistrate Fiona Toose was frank in handing down her sentence, telling Moscatelli that “clearly nothing” stops him from reoffending.

“You come before the court with almost 100 pages of criminal history,” she declared.

“I think it would be completely and utterly inappropriate for you to receive anything other than a custodial sentence.”

Moscatelli was ordered to pay $100 in compensation to Aldi and was sentenced to six months imprisonment, which was backdated to when he first went into custody.

He will be eligible for release on August 14 this year.

Teen fined for pushing officer

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Ateenager who was found guilty of pushing a police officer in the back has been fined $800.

Aaron Donahue, 18, fronted Penrith Local Court last month charged with ‘assault police officer in execution of duty’.

It is alleged that he was heavily intoxicated when he tried to entice another man to fight him on the street just before 11pm on March 17.

According to court facts, Donahue was near the Sandra Place and Stevenson Street intersection in South Penrith when he had a verbal interaction with the man.

It is alleged that the man went inside to

avoid confrontation, but Donahue began kicking the door and yelling words to the effect of “come out and fight me”.

Police facts state that they attended the residence where they found and handcuffed an obviously intoxicated and aggressive Donahue in the front yard.

Donahue was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station.

Police facts indicate that Donahue was initially compliant, but grabbed his vape and attempted to smoke while he was being spoken to. It is alleged that an officer took the vape from his hand and walked him towards the cell. As he turned to close the cell door, Donahue pushed him in the back.

Donahue was convicted and fined $800 over the matter.

Prospective buyers can contact Colliers. The site at 61-79 Henry Street, Penrith is for sale.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY FESZCZUK

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That’s Moore like it: Local knowledge to lead city’s future Council’s new GM

Andrew Moore has been appointed Penrith City Council's new General Manager.

It follows the departure of Warwick Winn from the role last year.

Board Members

Application for Appointment

Blaxland Crossing Recreation and Rest Ground Land Manager Applications are sought for appointment as Board members of the above mentioned Statutory Land Manager of Reserve No. Reserve No. 81721 at Wallacia notified on 19-Jun-1959 for Public Recreation, Resting Place, Reserve No. 500350 at Wallacia notified on 26-Jun-1931 for Resting Place, Public Recreation. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years. Successful applicants will be responsible for the care, control and management of the reserves in a voluntary capacity. Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 12 May 2023.

For further information: Elizabeth Lobo on (02) 9842 8336 or on reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

Raised in Penrith, Moore brings a wealth of experience to the position, having climbed the ranks at Council over the past 21 years. His extensive knowledge of the organisation and track record in delivering results across a number of portfolios including Finance, Property Development and Management, ICT and Sustainability and Resilience made him the ideal candidate to lead Penrith City Council through its next growth phase, according to Mayor Tricia Hitchen.

“We’re thrilled to be appointing Andrew Moore as our new General Manager. Andrew’s experience, commercial and financial acumen, leadership skills, and passion for Penrith’s community set him apart,” she said.

“We have fantastic, talented people working at Penrith Council, so I’m not surprised that the best candidate has come from within the organisation.

“We’re confident that Andrew will provide strong leadership to our staff and will continue to deliver strong financial stewardship and positive outcomes for our community.”

Moore is looking forward to starting in the new role from April 24.

“THE PRINCE OF LIBERTY IS ETERNAL VIGILANCE”

RSL SUB-BRANCH

(ESTABLISHED 1920)

Roads

High St (between Station St & Lawson St) Lawson St (from Traffic Lights on High St)

Castlereagh St (between Lethbridge St & High St)

Tindale St (between Woodriff & Castlereagh St)

Tindale St (Penrith RSL car park entrance closed)

To enter/exit Penrith RSL during these hours enter via Lethbridge St Woodriff St (to Derby St)

Union Lane (between Station & Woodriff St)

Special note:

The ANZAC MARCH starts from Castlereagh St and down High St at 2:45pm

Masters Car Park entrance (Woodriff St closed & Astina building driveway closed to all in/out

“I’m honoured to have been selected as the next General Manager of Penrith City Council,” he said.

“I am committed to continuing the great work already unfolding across the City and working collaboratively with our stakeholders and the community to ensure that Penrith continues to be a great place to live, work and visit.

“I’m excited to lead the opportunities I see for Penrith’s future and I am committed to working with the Council to see our shared vision for Penrith delivered.

“I understand our community’s aspirations; my family lives, works, is being educated and plays sport in our community. Penrith has a strong identity and I want to see that identity grow.”

ANZAC DAY

Tuesday 25th April, 2023

City of Penrith RSL Sub-Branch Commemorating ANZAC Day 2023

Date: 25 April, 2023

Place: Memory Park, Woodriff Street, Penrith

Arrival Time: 4:30am

Silent March commences: 4:45am

Ceremony commences: 5:00am

General Public most welcome

Women Veterans’ Network Australia (WVNA)

ANZAC Day Service Saturday 22nd April 2023

Memory Park, corner High & Woodriff Streets, Penrith Seated by 10:30am. Public invited to attend.

RSL Sub-branch

New Council General Manager with Mayor Tricia Hitchen.

West being left behind in arts funding, report says

EMILY FESZCZUK

While western Sydney is flourishing in some areas, new statistics reveal how under-resourced the local arts sector is compared to other parts of Sydney.

The State of the Arts in Western Sydney 2023 report, which was recently released, was undertaken over six months by Western Sydney University’s Centre for Western Sydney.

Chief Researcher at the Centre for Western Sydney, Dr Rhonda Itaoui said the report highlighted the critical inequities in funding and infrastructure that has restricted the success of the arts economy in western Sydney.

“Today, western Sydney represents one in 10 Australians, yet only attracted 3.4 per cent of federal funds between 2015 and 2022, and beyond the Powerhouse Parramatta, western Sydney received only 3.5 per cent of cultural infrastructure funding allocated to Sydney to date since 2015,” Itaoui said.

“From 2021 to 2022, western

Sydney received just over $4.5 million, which is seven per cent of funding from the NSW Government via the Create NSW Arts and Cultural Funding Program, while eastern Sydney received over $48 million or 74 per cent of these funds.”

The Western Sydney Arts Alliance, which represents 33 arts and cultural organisations across the region, welcomed the report and the 12 priorities it recommended, including the proposal to base funding on population distribution.

Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PP&VA) is a member of the Alliance and CEO Krissie Scudds told the Weekender that the findings are vital moving forward.

“This is a follow up from the Deloitte Building Western Sydney’s Cultural Art Economy report in 2015 and while we knew there was a stark difference it looks like we have almost gone backwards after the pandemic,” Scudds said.

“We have seen that western Sydney only received 1.7 per cent from the Federal Government for post pandemic economic recovery despite being hardest hit, so to

have the figures gives us a definite platform to argue for more funding for this region.”

While PP&VA has a supportive relationship with Penrith Council, Scudds said that they are working to establish a stronger relationship with the other levels of government to receive multi-year funding.

“The whole industry is still getting back up on its feet and bouncing

back doesn’t happen in a quick way, it has to be a long slow sustained recovery and is going to need a lot of support,” she said.

“Extra funding would enable us to give our staff the hours they need to run our programs to their very best, we could run more free programming for the community, we could amplify more local stories and employ more local artists by

building some pathways between school and professional practice for those who want a career in the arts.”

The arts scene in Penrith is set to receive a boost through the WestInvest program however, which has allocated some arts and cultural facilities of varied purpose, including the St Marys City Heart and Entertainment Canopy and the City Park.

Linda Brescia’s ‘A Girl Like You’ exhibition. Photo: Jacqui Manning.

The annual Youth Theatre Festival in 2022.

Photo: Phyllis Photography.

Administration

Penrith Office

Civic Centre, 601 High Street. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

Contact Centre Open 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

council@penrith.city

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Services Waste Services 4732 7777

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

Graffiti Hotline Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

1 & 29 May – 7pm Online via penrith.city (Ordinary Meeting)

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Mayoral Charity Ball

Friday 5 May 2023

Evan Theatre, Panthers Penrith Rugby Leagues Club

Time 5.30 - 11pm

Dress Black tie attire

Ticket $200pp - includes $50 charitable donation

Ticket sales close Wednesday, 19 April

Enquiries 4732 7652 | events@penrith.city

Council Briefs

● Safely pack your unwanted, out-of-date and unused household chemicals into the boot of your car or trailer and bring them down to the NEW LOCATION of The Kingsway Playing Fields car park in Werrington for the Chemical CleanOut weekend on Saturday, 15 April and Sunday, 16 April, between 9am and 3.30pm. Please make sure the types of chemicals are clearly labelled to assist the friendly team on the day to ensure the right waste goes to the right place.

Only household quantities of chemicals 20L or 20kg and up to 100L in 20L containers of paint will be accepted at the event. As a contactless event, residents are requested to remain in their vehicles when attending the CleanOut weekend. For more information, visit penrith.city/events

● Don’t miss out on Council’s free Microchipping Day for Penrith cats and dogs! Visit our Animal Services team on Saturday, 22 April at Ridge Park Hall in Oxley Park between 9am and 12pm. A range of local animal services will also be there on the day offering free health checks and answering any of your questions. For more information about the day, visit penrith.city/events

● Penrith is home to many dedicated, selfless and inspirational people and Penrith City Council’s Local Celebration Awards are an opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate these people in our community.

We’re calling for nominations for our Citizen of the Year Award. Do you know someone who has contributed significantly to our city, demonstrated commitment to a cause, or been involved in activities that have improved the lives of people in our community?

This is your chance to shine a light on them. Give them the recognition they deserve by nominating them for the 2023 Local Celebration Awards.

Find out more about the award program and how to nominate at penrith.city/local-celebration-awards

Public Notices

Public Meeting – Penrith Local Planning Panel

The Penrith Local Planning Panel will meet to determine the following:

• DA21/0968

342–350 High Street, Penrith

Demolition of existing structures and construction of mixed-use commercial and residential development including 2 x 7-storey buildings (Building A – High Street; Building B – John Cram Place), ground floor retail tenancies and upper floor (Levels 1–4) commercial tenancies (Building A), 29 residential apartments, 2 levels of basement car parking and associated site works

When: Wednesday, 19 April 2023 commencing at 1pm

The Local Planning Panel meeting will be conducted in a hybrid environment with opportunity to either attend the meeting in person or connect online.

To enable access to the meeting and registration of speakers, please contact the Development Services Department on 4732 7637 or email localpanel@penrith.city by 4pm on Monday, 17 April 2023. A meeting invitation with log in details will be provided upon request. Please also confirm if you wish to register to speak. Any person joining the online meeting are informed that the meeting will be audio recorded, and a copy of that recording will be made publicly available following the meeting. Relevant documents will be available on Penrith Council’s website penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Local-Planning-Panel/

Section 154 of the Roads Act 1993 –Proposed Lease on Road Reserve

Under Section 154 of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to grant a road lease located at the corner of Henry Street and Kendall Street, Penrith as detailed below.

Applicant: Red Rooster Foods Pty Ltd

Proposed Use: Landscaping

Description of Land: Section of road at Corner of Henry Street and Kendall Street, Penrith

Term: Five years

Subject area is outlined in red above. All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or council@penrith.city within 28 days of the date of this notice, being Wednesday, 24 May 2023.

For all enquiries: Please contact Nina Mikho on 4732 7492 or Property@penrith.city

penrith.city

Introducing MC David Campbell OAM

World-leading tech to assist knee replacements at Nepean Hospital

New robotic technology has been introduced at Nepean Hospital to assist orthopaedic surgeons in delivering knee replacements with improved accuracy.

The Robotic Surgical Assistant, known as ROSA, applies 3D modelling pre-operatively to support surgeons in planning the optimal position of the knee implant with millimetre accuracy.

Knees are the most common joint replacement procedure performed at Nepean, with Associate Professor Yasser Khatib, Head of Orthopaedic Surgery, stating that he hopes the use and implementation of ROSA will assure patients that they’re getting the most technologically advanced experience of surgery at the high-volume centre – which is only the second public hospital in New South Wales to access it.

“With the introduction of ROSA, people in the Nepean Blue Mountains area can be assured they’re receiving world-class surgery with world-class surgeons,” Khatib said. In addition to being the most common, knee joints are also a more complex joint due to movement and balance, which can result in a more involved recovery, longer length of hospital stay and more physiotherapy than other joint replacements.

Khatib has high hopes that improving the preciseness of the procedure with ROSA will result in improvements for patients throughout their time at Nepean.

“ROSA may be particularly beneficial with some of our more complex cases as it provides us with objective data on soft tissue balance and tolerances, providing us with valuable information to judge and modify the best position of the prosthesis,” he said.

“Ensuring the precision of the procedure has the potential to improve patient outcomes, enhance the patient’s surgical experience and make the recovery easier after surgery.

“ROSA may assist us to minimise pain, improve balance and movement of the knee and overall, reduce the length of hospital stay and rehabilitation required after surgery.”

With exciting benefits on the horizon, Khatib has partnered with fellow Nepean Hospital orthopaedic surgeons Associate Professor Rami Sorial, Dr Eli Olschewski and Dr Pavitar Sunner to conduct a clinical trial examining just what ROSA can offer.

The surgeons hope that the study’s data will demonstrate just how the use of robotic technology, such as ROSA, can support a faster recovery and a shorter hospital stay.

“Our patients deserve the best care possible and anything we can do to help improve their experience and speed up recovery is worth investing in,” Khatib said.

Development Consent/s Determined

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

Approved Development

Applications

• Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd

DA22/1236

Lot 2 DP 865459, 1–11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park

Alterations and additions to existing Coles Supermarket ‘Click & Collect’ facilities

• Council Approval Group

DA22/0778

Lot 274 DP 31824, 205 Richmond Road, Penrith

Construction of 2-storey detached dual occupancy dwelling and Strata title subdivision x 2 lots

• Think Planners Pty Ltd

DA20/0858

Lot 11 DP 854412 and Lot 1 DP 1265105, Soper Place

Car Park, 99a Henry Street, Penrith

Construction of part 10-storey and part 5-storey mixed-use building including public & private car parking, motorcycle parking & bicycle parking (Basement Level And Ground Level to Level 4), multi-use community space, public rooftop garden, 4 storeys of commercial floor space (Levels 5–8), plant rooms (Level 9) and related demolition works, tree removal, ground level public domain works, road works and landscaping of rooftop garden

• John Chammas

DA23/0163

Lot 8 DP 1172956, 53 Tall Trees Drive, Glenmore Park

Solid fuel heater

• Amanda Elizabeth Cardwell

Lot 3 DP 520366, 171–185 Boundary Road, Cranebrook

Demolition of existing dwelling

DA23/0006

• Jye Saliba

DA23/0170

Lot 488 DP 252148, 23 Gandell Crescent, South Penrith Detached secondary dwelling

• Julie Elisabeth Thomas & David Porter Mod22/0242

Lot 157 Sec C DP 1687, 34 Martin Street, Regentville Section 4.55 Modification to DA18/1236 for amendment to alterations and additions including the enclosure of the rear patio and the construction of a laundry

Integrated Developments

Penrith City Council have received Development Applications in respect of the subject properties. The consent authority for these Development Application is Penrith City Council.

• Childcare Developments Group Pty Ltd DA23/0236

Lot 502 DP 807597, 18 Enterprise Road, Cranebrook Demolition of existing structures, tree removal and construction of a childcare facility x 89 children with basement parking and associated works

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary office hours, in the period from Monday, 17 April 2023 to Monday, 1 May 2023.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA23/0236. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jane Hetherington on 4732 8078.

• Maryland Development Mod23/0064 Company Pty Ltd

Lot 1 DP 1248480 and Lot 6 DP 1248480, Wianamatta Parkway, Jordan Springs

Section 4.55 (2) modification to DA17/0889 to Include the excavation and reinstatement of fill material, public road connection between Wianamatta Parkway and the East West Connector Road and minor boundary adjustments

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary office hours, in the period from Monday, 17 April 2023 to Monday, 1 May 2023.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number Mod23/0064. For any queries relating to the proposal:

Please contact Lucy Goldstein on 4732 8136.

Viewing of Development Applications

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/

DATracker Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

ROSA is currently being used in the surgical theatres at Nepean Hospital.

Do

TEN

Mother’s Day is a special occasion to express love and appreciation for all the hard work and dedication that mothers put in every day.

This year, Haven Candles and Two Trees Hammocks have teamed up to create an exceptional gift package that will help spoil and pamper Mum. The package includes three beautifully scented soy blend candles from Haven and a Deluxe King Hammock from Two Trees.

The candles are specially crafted to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room. With a mixture of fruity, floral and earthy scents, they are sure to soothe and relax Mum after a long day. Each candle is made with high-quality soy wax, which

burns cleanly and evenly, ensuring a long-lasting burn time.

The Deluxe King Hammock is the perfect complement to the candles, providing Mum with a comfortable and relaxing place to unwind. Made with 100 per cent durable cotton, the hammock is spacious and sturdy, providing space for Mum to nap, read, or simply enjoy some peaceful time in the sun.

The Weekender has four Mother’s Day gift packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Mother’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, April 28 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

paceway winners lucky

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

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

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

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

This week’s lucky winners are: 0342, 4327, 0662.

Tell us exactly where this week’s featured I Spy image is located in Penrith and you could win! Email ispy@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 beautiful Mary holding baby Jesus statue is located in the front garden of Penola Catholic College in Emu Plains. This was a tricky one to spot!

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Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Oxley Park: Witnesses restrain drunk driver after he crashes into vehicles

A man has been charged after he was caught high range drink driving in Oxley Park over the long weekend.

About 9.15pm on Friday, April 7, it is alleged that a 42-year-old man was driving along Sydney Street, Oxley Park when his vehicle collided into five stationary vehicles parked on the side of the road.

The man allegedly attempted to leave the scene but was followed on foot by witnesses. He was restrained by the witnesses in the backyard of a residential property until police arrived.

The man was placed under arrest and was subjected to a breath test which returned a positive reading for alcohol.

He was taken to St Marys Police Station for a secondary test which returned a reading of 0.181 grams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.

The man’s licence was suspended, and he was issued a Court Attendance Notice to appear before Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, May 10.

Penrith: Man fined after invading field at Panthers home game

A man has been fined after invading the pitch at a football game in Penrith.

About 7.10pm on Saturday, April 8, police were present at BlueBet Stadium, Penrith for an NRL game between Penrith Panthers and Manly Sea Eagles.

It is alleged that a 22-year-old male spectator entered the playing field by jumping a fence.

The man ran into the middle of the field which caused the game to stop.

Security apprehended the man and escorted him off the field where he was met by officers.

The male was issued with an infringement notice for the offence of, ‘Enter/remain on playing field without authority’ and may receive a lifetime ban from all NRL matches in the future.

Londonderry: Trio charged after trespassing on RAAF property

Three men have been charged after they were caught trespassing in Londonderry.

About 9.20am on Sunday, April 9, police received an urgent call for assistance from three people whose vehicle become stranded in bushland located on Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) owned property in Londonderry.

This prompted a multi-agency response requiring resources including, PolAir, Ambulance, Rural Fire Service and Police. Emergency services located the three men –aged 27, 28, and 28 – and escorted them back to safety.

They were all issued Court Attendance Notices for the offence of, ‘Enter enclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse’. The men are due to appear at Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, May 10.

Kingswood: Police officer injured after chase’s dramatic conclusion

A man has been charged with a string of driving offences after a police pursuit ending in Kingswood.

About 1.50am on Tuesday, April 11, police were patrolling the M4 Motorway near The Northern Road, Orchard Hills when they observed a vehicle allegedly travelling at a speed of 130km/h in a 110km/zone.

Officers attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the driver allegedly suddenly increased their speed and exited the M4 Motorway.

A police pursuit was initiated, and police followed the vehicle through numerous local roads before deploying road spikes to stop the vehicle.

The male driver allegedly attempted to run away from the scene and was apprehended by police on foot.

The man violently resisted police during the arrest, injuring two officers, causing one officer to be taken to hospital.

He was subjected to a breath test at the scene which returned a positive result for alcohol before being taken to Penrith Police Station and subjected to a secondary breath test which he failed to complete.

The 31-year-old man was charged with ‘Police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly’, ‘Class a motor vehicle exceed speed', ‘Drive motor vehicle during disqualification period’, ‘Refuse or fail to submit breath analysis’, ‘Hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty’ and ‘Drive recklessly/ furiously or speed/manner dangerous’.

with Daniel McKinnon

EXPLAINER: RESTRICTIONS AS TO USER AND COVENANTS – WHAT ARE THEY?

In last week’s column we explained the concept of easements including drainage easements and rights of carriageways.

Two other types of dealings that commonly affect property in New South Wales are known as “Covenants” and/or “Restrictions as to user”.

If you have recently purchased a property you might have discussed with your lawyer that the property was subject to a covenant or a restriction as to user.

These are very similar things and affect property in similar ways.

A covenant is essentially a positive obligation on the person who owns the property that is affected by the covenant to do something or observe a particular obligation.

A common type of covenant on property titles in the Penrith area is a fencing covenant that says that an owner of a property cannot require an adjoining covenant contribute to the costs of constructing a boundary fence. Usually covenants like this are out of date and were put on title decades ago when a developer was developing a vacate plot of land but did not want to have to contribute to the cost of boundary fencing for each lot that they sold.

A restriction on the use of land or “restriction as to user” is essentially the same thing just by different name.

A restriction as to user prevents the owner of a property from doing a particular thing.

Examples include things like not constructing a fence in front of the street facing the side of a house (ie a picket fence) or prohibiting the construction of more than one dwelling on a block of land.

The Penrith Local Government Area is a

good example of how things like covenants, restrictions as to user and easements are used in practice because there are lots of new developments that have included different rules and regulations imposed on land owners.

For example in places like Jordan Springs, Waterside, and new parts of Glenmore Park like Glenmore Ridge and Mulgoa Rise there are restrictions on things like colours and types of fencing and design guidelines in place with respect to what kinds of houses can be constructed.

As opposed to something like a fencing covenant which seeks to avoid a developer needing to go to the expense of contributing to boundary fences on individual lots in a subdivision, design guidelines and similar restrictions are used to achieve uniformity in the aesthetic of a neighbourhood.

This is a fairly modern thing.

If you drive through most new estates you will see that most, if not all, of the homes are similar in design, style and things like colour palette.

These types of restrictions were less common years ago which is why lots of older suburbs have many different types and styles of homes and are not as “symmetrical”.

Things like covenants, restrictions as to user and easements are built into the title of the property. They are not negotiable and you need to be aware of their presence before you buy a property.

It is a legal requirement that any contracts for the sale of land in New South Wales include details of any covenants, restrictions as to user, easements, rights of carriageway or other such dealings.

SYDNEY WATER COMPLETES UPGRADE

Sydney Water has announced it is close to completing a $42 million upgrade of its St Marys Wastewater Pumping Station.

The St Marys wastewater system currently caters for approximately 161,500 people and is set to increase by approximately 20,000

individuals by the end of 2023 and 67,000 by 2036.

The pumping capacity of the St Marys Wastewater Pumping Station is 900 litres per second and this has more than doubled with the site now able to pump 1,900 litres.

How VR can make dreams come true for those in palliative care

After over a year of planning and fundraising, the team from Our Community Cares has paid a visit to Nepean Hospital to hand over virtual reality technology to the Palliative Care department, in hopes of enriching the lives of patients now, and into the future.

For Our Community Cares, the idea of fundraising for VR technology came from the knowledge that so many people in palliative care were unable to tick off the last items on their bucket list. Though they still might not be able to do the real thing, the technology opens doors to visit safe spaces and exciting locations in a new way, Bev Gibbins said.

“It’s really about them being able to see things that they wish they’d seen in their lifetime, we can put them on a virtual reality and they can feel like they’re there,” she said.

“Even if it’s only for 15 minutes, 15 minutes is a long time for them. Why wouldn’t we do it if we could?”

The team have been fundraising for the technology since the Christmas before last, with their 2021 gift wrapping initiative, up until their High Tea Garden Party just a few months ago. It’s because of this that the handover of five headsets was so momentous for co-founder Kris Gauci.

“It’s just the most amazing feeling, giving back to the community, I feel really lucky to be able to do that,” she said.

“We’ve got an amazing group of volunteers who work really hard all the time, right through the year. They’re always coming up with new ideas that might help someone in

the community, and to know that it’s going back to your own community is an awesome feeling.”

Gauci and Gibbins were joined by the team from Mobiddiction, who provided the VR headsets for the hospital with an experience called Virt-Real – a mix of virtual and real,

which allows patients to log in and visit locations ranging from the Sydney Opera House to seeing the elephants in Thailand in a 360-degree photograph.

Mike Vasavada, the Co-Founder and Director of Mobiddiction, said that he was excited to be involved in the initiative.

“It feels unreal that the technology is finally being applied in this way, I have goosebumps. It’s not easy, we’ve been working with all the departments, whether it’s the hospital or Our Community Cares, and we’ve had a lot of support from a lot of people,” he said.

“It’s not just developing a gaming app for VR, it’s meant to be very simple, but it has to feel good.

“We’ve gone through the whole process, and 12 or 15 months later, we’re here!”

The application also includes simple exercises to help patients with movement skills, with the Mobiddiction and Our Community Cares teams hoping to expand the use of the headsets with even more feature developments and uses after the initial trial, for implementation across a variety of wards in the hospital.

“I’m hoping that we can now build this into other hospitals, and other clinical care, aged care for example,” Vasavada said.

“VR is so big, and is going to get that big, that you can only imagine the possibilities with that interactivity.”

The teams from Our Community Cares and Mobiddiction came together last week to hand over the VR headsets to Nepean Hospital’s Palliative Care department. Photo: Cassidy Pearce.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Penrith is home to many dedicated, selfless and inspirational people and the Local Celebration Awards are an opportunity to recognise and thank these people who work so tirelessly for the benefit of our community.

There are four categories to choose from:

Citizen of the Year (over 18 years old)

Young Citizen of the Year (24 years or under)

Mayor’s Local Heroes Award (all ages)

Community Service Award (all ages)

Nominations are open until 30 April 2023. Find out how to nominate and learn more about the award program at penrith.city/local-celebration-awards.

New PCYC initiative builds cash to deliver important programs

EMILY FESZCZUK

PCYC Penrith has launched a new initiative and is calling for help to support local youth who are at risk.

The Ambassadors Club is seeking members to sponsor the club for 12 months to ensure that vital programs for young people can continue.

With PCYC being 90 per cent self-funded, some programs are not able to run if targets are not reached, so a more reliable source of fundraising was needed.

“Every time PCYC thinks of a great initiative to help someone in a group they have to then find extra funds to get it off the ground, so sometimes a project can only be done once,” PCYC Committee President, Gai Hawthorn said.

“We needed something more reliable and sustainable, so we thought of the concept that if we had a minimum number of local businesses or individuals on board then with that income flow we can have programs forecasted for the future.”

PCYC Penrith Club Manager Tristan Summerhayes said sponsors will also receive some perks from their donations and will receive updates on where the money is going.

“We will be putting business’ logos on our TV screen in our foyer, a hyperlink on our

website and a couple of shout outs on social media to acknowledge they are part of the Ambassadors Club,” Summerhayes said.

“We will be doing some newsletters on how we are spending the money and some good news stories, and businesses will have the opportunity to be part of a networking event.”

Offering programs that assist young people with preparing for work or improving their mental resilience, Summerhayes sees firsthand the positive impacts PCYC has on locals.

“These programs really touch base with mental wellbeing and our after school programs are very beneficial for kids as an

outlet to socialise with friends and have time away from the stressors that are in their lives,” he said.

“We do see some caregivers not being able to afford these programs, so having local businesses would give us the opportunity to help these disadvantaged youth to be able to access these programs and not leave them in the dark.”

AonAri Property, Rafton Family Lawyers, ALA Law, Nepean Valley Rotary and Rotary Club of Penrith are some of the first members to sign up.

As a team of mums, ALA Law Marketing and Events Coordinator Gina Neilson said it is crucial to support youth because they are “the future of our society”.

“We believe in investing in their education, health, and wellbeing; therefore, we are ensuring a brighter future for everyone,” Neilson said.

“Additionally, supporting young people helps to create a more equitable and just world, where everyone has access to opportunities and the ability to reach their full potential.

“When we provide resources and support to young people, we are strengthening our communities and building a better tomorrow.”

For more information or to join the Ambassadors Club, call 4732 1755 or email penrith@ pcycnsw.org.au.

Tristan Summerhayes and Gai Hawthorn at PCYC Penrith.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Your chance to take a look inside Amazon thanks to new public tours Where the magic happens

each station we break it down and make it as simplistic as possible for our team members, so they can do it efficiently.”

Have you ever wondered how Amazon can get your order to you so quickly?

Now, for the first time, the public can go behind the scenes by taking a free tour of the robotics fulfillment centre in Kemps Creek to see the action in person.

Launching for the school holidays, people aged six years and over can visit the largest warehouse ever built in Australia with tours operating four days a week.

The tours follow on from the launch of virtual tours in August last year, which are still running on Mondays and Fridays, where you can get a look at the Sydney fulfilment centre, as well as crossing live to sites in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Italy.

The Weekender visited the centre on Emporium Avenue, and got to see how the integration of 1500 team members and over 2000 robots work together to pick, pack and ship Amazon orders.

Tour Leader Joshua Dawe explained how every system in the inbound and outbound processes are built for “speed and simplicity”.

“We hold up to 20 million items and work with 14,000 small and medium businesses that sell their products, so we have a physical and digital match to know where everything is stored and can be easily accessed,” he said.

“There are lots of things going on but at

A major part of that process is the robotic platforms that really have a mind of their own.

“The robots move stock around autonomously through machine learning and artificial intelligence,” Dawe said.

“We utilise barcodes on the floor and QR codes while the robots have 27 sensors on them to read it to know exactly how to move safely around an area and where they need to go.”

While the technology is almost futuristic, the role of the local workers cannot be surpassed.

“There is a bit of a misunderstanding that robotics takes away jobs but the way we do it at Amazon is we use the simplistic innovations to empower our team members,” he said.

“This allows them to do some amazing things for our customers by having that really cool interface between robots and people.”

While Dawe is excited to lead tours for the public, he is most looking forward to showing some special guests around.

“Most of all I’m excited for my kids to be able to see where their Dad works,” he said.

“After all, it’s not every day that you get to see the inside of a robotics warehouse the size of 24 rugby league fields.”

Tours will run for 60 to 90 minutes. Registration is essential, visit www.amazontours. com/au/onsite.

CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM

Throughout history artists in almost every culture looked to the divine for inspiration. Art was meant to uplift, bringing joy to those who created and experienced it. Today, Shen Yun Performing Arts pays homage to this tradition, weaving the wisdom and virtues of Chinese civilization with ancient legends and modern heroic tales on stage.

Shen Yun brings to its audiences a whole new experience, revealing a China untainted by communist rule. Be prepared to traverse time and space and be mesmerised by the action, humour, and beauty of ve millennia. It’s an experience that will uplift your spirit and touch your heart.

Cosby, Emmy Award-winning journalist

Amazon Tour Leader Joshua Dawe is ready to show you around.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY FESZCZUK

I’ve reviewed about 4,000 shows. None can compare to what I saw tonight.”

—Richard Connema, Broadway critic

“

“It is breathtaking! I am walking away deeply inspired and profoundly moved!”

—Rita

CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM

From Penrith to the world: How Andrew chased his music dream

Andrew Hewitt has been drumming in bands since he was 19, travelling all over the world for his craft. You wouldn’t know if you’d only heard him play, but Hewitt was born with cerebral palsy, and is now looking to pass his talents on to other budding musos with mindsets just like him.

Hewitt has been playing the drums for 43 years, spurred on by his parents who he said had no idea what they were getting themselves into.

“My parents thought it would be a good form of physical exercise for me, but they assumed that the drums would be collecting dust in about six months. They were wrong about that!” he said.

Within his long career, which has seen him perform everywhere from Anaheim to Berlin and appear in magazines worldwide, Hewitt said he’s faced no shortage of criticism and disbelief – but that’s only made him better at beating it.

“Saying ‘no’ to me is like waving a red flag at a bull,” he said.

“Every time someone tells me ‘no’, I become more determined to go and do it, and prove them wrong.”

It’s for this reason that he’s also become an advocate for people with disabilities, facilitat-

ing hand drumming workshops in disability centres, and being a founding member and director of Can-Do Musos – a non-profit organisation formed in New York, which has 364 members across 36 countries.

“It’s really important to change perspectives about people with a disability,” he said.

“There are so many people out there that see a wheelchair, and they don’t see past it. I’ve only been in the chair for about 13 years, but

I’ve always had a disability, and I’ve always tried to show people that just because my legs don’t work, doesn’t mean you can’t do something good in your life.”

Hewitt also aims to portray this message through his teaching.

Despite having taught the drums since 2004, Hewitt admits that COVID brought the music industry to a halt – including his lessons. Unable to coordinate them online, he was forced to take a break, and is now back getting the ball rolling.

Hewitt’s first post-pandemic performance was at last month’s Nepean Disability Expo, and he’s aiming to continue teaching out of his home in Penrith, with a special call-out to those with disabilities.

“I mainly teach people with disabilities because I want to give them the same opportunity that I’ve had, and learn something cool,” he said.

To anyone thinking about learning to play the drums, Hewitt has a strong message.

“Give it a go, you don’t know if you don’t try,” he said.

“Sometimes, someone might fail somewhere, but you try something else. There’s always more than one way to do things, and I’ve always told people there are no rules, you just do it the way you can do it, don’t give up!”

For more information, visit drummerstix. com.au.

Autism AcceptAnce month Autism AcceptAnce month

in our community and welcoming their different perspectives and experiences. In the past, the focus has been on building awareness of autism, and now, this is shifting into promoting acceptance of the autistic community by highlighting their unique strengths, abilities, and talents. You can take part in Autism Acceptance month by engaging with and listening to autistic people in your life or local community. This may look like supporting autistic owned business, talking with autistic people in your life, donating to organisations that support autistic individuals (like LPF), and most importantly, being kind and accepting. Keep your eye on our socials as we will be promoting various autistic artists, businesses, and organisations, as we celebrate Autism Acceptance month.

Another thing we are doing to celebrate Autism Acceptance month is holding an online raffle for the chance to win a framed and autographed 2021 Penrith Panthers Premier jersey! We are fundraising to be able to provide subsidised services for families experiencing financial difficulties.

Raffle Online

Sensory Playgroup - LPF Centre: Thursday 10am - 11.30am

-

Groups & Support - We aim to increase social development and to foster an inclusive and creative culture, to actively participate in the community. Parents have the opportunity to receive resources and advice on strategies relating to issues that may be of concern with a carer support environment.

Andrew Hewitt at his home in Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Royce first partnered with NRL legend and high-profile resident Royce Simmons for the inaugural Royce’s Big Walk last year, with the event raising over $1 million for dementia research. The Tulich facility has recommitted to the cause as Simmons wraps up final preparations for this year’s 313-kilo-

Do you ever wonder about the history behind the street signs we look at every day?

The Breyley brothers lived on a farm at Cambridge Park. One brother was a photographer and many of his pictures can be seen in historical collections in the Nepean Historical Society and Penrith Library. Another brother, William Breyley, taught at Emu Plains for 23 years.

Source: A History of the Nepean and District Street Names compiled by Lorna Parr.

Δ Environmentally smarter: Mars Wrigley has announced it’s partnering with leading supermarket, Coles to trial new sustainable off-location displays made from ocean-bound plastic (pictured above). The initiative will see a reduction of 74 tonnes of cardboard from Coles’ value chain and a potential eight tonnes of plastic stopped from entering the marine environment. The new recycled ocean-bound plastic displays form part of Mars Wrigley’s broader point-ofsale overhaul with Coles, which also includes stackable cardboard shippers that reduces cardboard and plastic from the company’s value chain and creates greater operational efficiencies. The new product displays are being trialled in 51 Coles stores around the country.

Δ Kids eat free: Gami Chicken & Beer at Nepean Village has a Kids Eat Free promotion running until April 21. Kids under 12-yearsold can eat free – either a kids nugget meal or a kids slider meal. Pop in to the restaurant for all the finer details.

Δ New bar: A brand new bar, Phone Booth, has opened on Batt Street. Pop in to try out the delicious drinks and food options. You’ll find it in the complex at 62-72 Batt Street, Penrith.

Δ Big walk’s new sponsor: Royce’s Big Walk has received a major boost with Penrith’s award-winning retirement living and aged care facility The Royce signing on as the event’s major sponsor for 2023. The

Mayor’s News

metre walk from Dubbo to Bathurst, kicking off on Tuesday, April 18. Pictured above is Simmons and Tulich Managing Director, Maurice Tulich.

Δ Got Source: Tell us about your store openings, closings, new products and more! Email news@westernweekender.com.au or call 4722 2998.

The weekly views of

Penrith’s Mayor

Clean out those chemicals!

We all have those household chemical items stored in our house, the garage, out the back and in our garden sheds that we’re waiting for the perfect opportunity to dispose of responsibly. That’s why Council is once again hosting their annual Chemical CleanOut weekend on Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16 2023.

If you’re coming down to the event, please label the types of chemicals you’re disposing of and pack them safely into the boot of your vehicle or trailer. Council staff will be available to unpack these for you as it will be a contactless event.

We’re at a new location, so please head to The Kingsway Playing Fields car park in Werrington between 9am and 3.30pm on both days to participate in this event.

Quantities of 20L or 20kg of household chemicals and up to 100L in 20L containers of paint will be accepted at the event.

It’s vital that, as a community, we dispose of our household chemicals correctly and safely.

They should never go into your regular

household bins or down the sink as they pose a serious risk to the health of our garbage collectors; they can contaminate our environment and harm wildlife.

Plus, some chemicals can add to the flammability and toxic effects, increasing the risk of fires.

Many chemical materials can be reused and recycled. Taking your chemical waste to the right place means that you’re disposing of them safely and assisting with the community’s resource recovery efforts.

Acceptable items include acids and alkalis, garden chemicals, car batteries, fire extinguishers, household cleaning products, fluorescent globes and tubes, gas bottles, motor oils, paint, pesticides and herbicides, pool chemicals and more. For more details about the weekend and a complete list of what you can bring, visit our website, penrith.city/events.

LOOKING FOR A PAPER?

Did you know there’s a number of ways to get your hands on a copy of the Western Weekender each week?

Head to www.westernweekender.com.au/ getapaper to find out how you can make sure you never miss out.

CR TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor of Penrith

2023 MAYORAL CHARITY BALL

Standing together to show support

Penrith’s highly anticipated Mayoral Charity Ball is fast approaching – and it is set to be a wonderful night for a worthy cause.

Well-known faces of Penrith, large and small businesses, community services and residents will converge at Panthers on Friday, May 5, to raise money for The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter and help make a difference in the lives of women and children impacted by domestic violence in our community.

Entertainer David Campbell OAM will emcee the event, where guests will enjoy a threecourse meal and drinks and be amazed by a performance by illusionist Jack Daniels, as well as other roaming and stage entertainment.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said she was grateful to everyone in the community, and friends of the City from near and far, who had purchased tickets.

“I want to personally thank those who recognise the significance of this event and have chosen to support The Haven by attending the Mayoral Charity Ball next month,” Cr Hitchen said.

“This is an opportunity to come together as a community, to celebrate one of our crucial and hard-working services on the ground, while enjoying a night of entertainment and sparking important conversations about domestic violence that will continue long after the event.”

Ticket prices include a $50 donation to The Haven and there will be a silent auction on the night to raise more money.

The Haven’s Shelter Manager, Samantha, has been touched by the heart-warming stories of shelter residents since the charity started in 2018. She said ongoing support would guarantee the organisation’s continued success and enable them to give back to those who are vulnerable in the community.

“One of our older residents wrote a lovely card for staff when she left the shelter and had written about how she never lived alone – she lived with family, then married young and due to domestic violence she moved into the shelter,” Samantha recalled.

“Upon leaving the shelter, this woman had secured her own, independent unit through community housing and was excited to finally live alone. The client also said she came to The Haven on her birthday and it was the best birthday gift she had ever received.

“This client’s experience is just one of several and this support from our community and Council will mean that many more women in our area will go on to live a life free from violence.”

Ticket sales to the Mayoral Charity Ball close on Wednesday, April 19. Purchase yours via the QR code below or visit penrith.city/events for more information.

This photograph from 1976 will bring back plenty of memories for long-time Penrith locals.

It shows the original Tattersalls Hotel on the corner of High and Station Streets, built in 1889.

Charles Messenger was the first licensee of the pub, which was built by William Jordan. The hotel became extremely popular with railway workers and hosted many social gatherings.

It underwent major renovations in 1922 and again in 1939, when the ornate verandas were removed.

The hotel as we knew it was demolished in 1980, with the retail and commercial development The Penrith Centre replacing it.

A pub would remain as part of the centre, slightly further down Station Street.

After many name changes, it now carries the traditional Tattersalls Hotel name.

As a side note, the iconic Murray’s Hardware can also be seen in this photo.

(Photo: Penrith City Library)

WITH NATHAN TODD WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

Creating effective video content that gets results for your organisation

Creating effective video content on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube requires a combination of creativity, planning, and execution. Here are some tips to help you create engaging and effective content..

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3. Keep it short and sweet: Effective content is typically short-form videos that last between 15 and 60 seconds, so keep your content brief and to the point. Use eye-catching visuals, captions and music to keep your audience engaged.

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If you are after some further information about how to create engaging content, please feel free to get in touch at any time.

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Get ready for a new sensation!

Are you an INXS fan and want to go on a journey through all the classic hits that made the band a household name for decades?

The Australian INXS Show will make you feel like you are at a proper rock ‘n’ roll stadium show when they visit Blue Mountains Theatre on Friday, April 21 and The Joan on Saturday, July 29.

By far the best INXS experience in the world today, the full six-piece band, that hails from Melbourne, has travelled to Dubai, India, Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Vanuatu, Singapore, Japan, China, Bora Bora, New Caledonia, Taipei and South Korea to captivate audiences.

Fronted by the incredible Dellacoma Rio, who does an uncanny portrayal of Michael Hutchence, the passion for the rock band is clear.

“I am a storyteller and a performer and one of the things that I love most about life is observing humans and the way they interact and what makes them tick,” Rio said.

“It’s always been fascinating to me studying what captures the human heart and INXS had a way of doing that and even now, over a decade after they called it quits, their music still captures the heart.”

While touted as a tribute show, the Australian INXS Show adds its own flair with a band of talented musicians.

“We are the most authentic INXS

tribute show going around, from the guitar parts each guitarist plays right down to the harmonies sung,” Rio said.

“We’ve taken our inspiration for the show from the iconic Wembley Stadium performance in 1991 and added our own twist.”

A high energy two-hour show with a full video show to accompany the entire performance, the band will invoke every emotion in you, especially from the first chord of ‘Never Tear Us Apart’.

“We pride ourselves on our live performance and engagement with

the audience,” he said.

“For INXS fans, we hope we can make you feel what you felt the last time you saw them live.”

Get ready for a ‘New Sensation’ and buy your tickets by visiting www.theaustralianinxsshow.com. au.

THE DHARUG CONNECTION

A special weekly focus on local Indigenous affairs and services

AEC begins its work ahead of The Voice referendum: What voters need to know

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is this week increasing its communication with the nation’s 17.3 million enrolled voters following the introduction of the Constitution Alteration (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice) 2023 Bill into federal parliament in late March.

Throughout the coming months, AEC communication will strive to inform voters about the Australian Constitution and the role of a federal referendum.

Digital advertising, media outreach and the distribution of curated products through community groups and other stakeholders will all point back to the dedicated referendum sub-site now live at aec.gov.au/referendum.

Australians have not voted in a federal referendum in almost a quarter of a century with more than 6.4 million enrolled voters not of voting age when the previous referendum was held in 1999. It is not the AEC’s role to explain the topic of a referendum but it is important for the body conducting the vote to explain to voters how that process works.

A range of educative resources, including AEC TV videos, animations, graphics and fact sheets, will be progressively distributed to help Australian voters understand the role of a referendum. The social media accounts of the AEC will continue to be an active proactive and reactive presence – pushing out messages regarding the history and role of federal referendums.

“We’re taking all the necessary first steps to kick off an education phase for the Australian public in order for all to understand how referendums work and the AEC’s role," said AEC Commissioner, Tom Rogers.

“The Constitution plays an active, daily role in the lives of Australians but it’s not on everyone’s coffee table at home, so it’s appropriate that ahead of a referendum we explain what it is and the upcoming process that seeks to change a part of it.

“More than 6.4 million enrolled voters have never voted in a referendum before. Some may not even know that it is compulsory to vote in a referendum and you will need to vote in-person, similar to a federal election.”

“The topic of the referendum is for others to debate but when it comes to the process, we’ll be running it and we’re here to help inform Australian voters and answer any questions they might have.

“Knowing what the Constitution is and what the role of a referendum is will clearly be vital in providing a solid foundation for how people consider their opportunity to vote in the back half of 2023.

“Our aim is for Australians to feel comfortable voting in a referendum and know how the process works.”

COLOURING COMP

Helpful Contacts

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services 4721 8520 nepeancommunity.org.au

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service 4729 7300 27-29 Lawson St, Penrith

Muru Mittigar 4730 0400 murumittigar.com.au

KARI Aboriginal Resources (02) 8782 0333 kari.org.au

Aboriginal Home Care 1300 973 058 australianunity.com.au

NSW Aboriginal Affairs 1800 019 998 aboriginalaffairs.nsw.gov.au

Aboriginal Land Council (02) 9689 4444 Service NSW 13 77 88 service.nsw.gov.au

back in the groove

THE PANTHERS HEAD TO NEWCASTLE LOOKING FOR THREE STRAIGHT WINS. MATCH PREVIEW: SEE PAGE 31

INSIDE: WIN A CASE OF BEER!

MASKED PANTHER

SEE PAGE 34

SEE PAGE 39

MATT RUSSELL

SEE PAGE 40

Jarome Luai.

the final word v

Plenty of people have asked questions about Penrith’s ability to win the Premiership again this year. After the last two weeks, those questions have well and truly been answered.

We heard all off-season that the loss of Api Koroisau and Viliame Kikau would end Penrith’s dream run. But after a shaky start, Ivan Cleary’s side has proven the club’s “next man up” mentality is more than just a convenient catchphrase.

Indeed, Penrith’s thrashings of Canberra and Manly over the past fortnight have come not only without Koroisau and Kikau, but without try scoring machine Taylan May, as well as Australian forward Liam Martin. And Kiwis enforcer James Fisher-Harris was also missing from the Manly game, and most of the match against the Raiders.

Penrith just keep producing, no matter what the challenge.

In part it’s because Penrith’s back three do so much work that it can cater for a forward the quality of Martin or Fisher-Harris being out.

The workload is spread so evenly across the squad that the Panthers are able to adapt to challenges other clubs would find impossible to overcome.

Momentum usually swings back and forth in NRL games but Penrith manages to maintain it for longer than most and it’s hard to stop them once they’re on a roll. It was only in the second half last week that Manly finally got some decent ball after being starved of possession, but it was all too late as the damage had been done.

Yet again Penrith conceded just two tries – a consistent defensive effort that sees Penrith

with the best points differential in the competition after six rounds.

And it is that defensive resolve that could prove the difference against Newcastle on Saturday evening. Of all the top eight teams, the eighth placed Knights have the worst defensive record – having let 138 points past them this year. And while last week’s win over the Warriors was a significant confidence-boost, they’d need a very sharp improvement to get past the Panthers.

Victory has been made even more difficult for Newcastle with captain Jayden Brailey to miss this encounter after picking up an injury last Sunday night. With Kalyn Ponga also out for another week before his much-anticipated Round 8 return, the Knights are struggling when it comes to troops.

Penrith meanwhile look set to welcome back

Liam Martin, and with Origin just around the corner, you can bet your bottom dollar he'll come back with a bang if he does get promoted from the extended bench.

At times this season the Knights have looked like the easybeats of the competition, but Adam O'Brien has clearly got them in a strong mental state and they’re certainly not surrendering without a fight, which is not something you could have said of them last year.

Even so, it’s hard to see them toppling an in-form Penrith here, especially with the likes of Dylan Edwards and Nathan Cleary in such good form.

A trip to McDonald Jones Stadium is never easy, but the Panthers should have too much experience and way too much quality to not get the job done here.

Tip: Panthers by 18.

The Panthers celebrate a try.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

nrl ladder & fixtures

here ’ s cheers

NAME: ABBY SMITH

22

SUBURB: WERRINGTON COUNTY

Seasons as a Pantherette? Two

Favourite food? Burritos

Favourite TV show? ‘Money Heist’

Favourite Panthers player? Stephen Crichton

Must-follow social media account?

@boilerroomtv Go to pump up song? ‘My People’, The Presets

What do you love about being a Pantherette? I love being surrounded by such high energy from fans and the other Pantherettes on game day!

If you were stranded on a desert island, who are you bringing with you and why? My Dad, he can fix any problem, so he would definitely be able to get us through it.

panther rumblings

BABY YEO A WELCOME ADDITION

! Baby Yeo arrives: It was a crazy week for Penrith co-captain Isaah Yeo in the lead-up to the clash against Manly, with his partner Ash giving birth to little Lennox ahead of schedule on Thursday. “So proud of Ash and how she handled everything, the little man just couldn't wait any longer,” Yeo said in a post on Instagram. “Our hearts are very full with Haven and now little Lennox.” Lennox has been gifted the middle name Gerard – after Yeo's uncle, who was killed in the Bali bombings.

! Fox treads fine line: Penrith officials have discussed everything from interview bans to legal action when it comes to perceived unfair coverage of the club across News Corp, particularly the flagship magazine show ‘NRL 360’ and The Daily Telegraph. The issue was due to be discussed at Board level on Wednesday, with many club officials frustrated that the team’s culture continues to be brought into question. 20,000 people packed into BlueBet Stadium last Saturday night to watch Penrith play against a team that barely brings any crowd with them. It was a vote of confidence that the people who matter most – Panthers supporters and the local community – have enormous faith in the team and what’s happening across the club. But the comments made by the likes of Paul Kent make everyone’s job at the club harder – forced to defend the side’s culture to sponsors, corporate partners, fans and other media. It’s not what should be focused on during a successful era for Penrith.

! Dylan has Blues support: There's growing calls for Penrith fullback Dylan Edwards to be considered for an Origin berth but obviously captain James Tedesco is standing in his way. Former NRL star Josh Morris has backed Edwards as the next man up should Tedesco be injured at any stage. “I’m going to throw it out there, if James Tedesco doesn’t play fullback for the Blues, Dylan Edwards should,” Morris said on 2GB. “He’s been one of the best

fullbacks the last couple of years. We’ve got Turbo and Latrell but I think you could easily put Turbo on the wing, (and) Latrell in the centres. If Teddy doesn’t play he would be a great substitute for him.”

! Costly laugh: The man who ran onto the field during the Panthers v Sea Eagles match last Saturday (left) would have had an expensive hangover the next day. He’s been fined by police and is likely to be banned from NRL games for life. It was all part of an online promotion, with the man hoping to win $100,000 for making a viral video. He didn’t win.

! Fox phones it in: Is anyone else frustrated that Fox League has kept up the habit of calling some matches off TV, which was forced upon them during COVID? It's obvious to any keen-eyed supporter. It’s mainly interstate games but it’s pretty poor form considering how much Fox and Kayo subscribers pay for premium broadcasts.

! Short and sweet: After just a couple of words got him some unwanted headlines after the Canberra game, it was perhaps no surprise that Ivan Cleary’s post-match press conference against the Sea Eagles went for just two min-

utes and 38 seconds. Not that Cleary was in a rush – he looked very relaxed at the presser and answered every question asked of him.

! May’s new addition: Injured Panthers flyer Taylan May has a new addition to his family. He recently adopted a dog, Ellie, from the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (pictured above).

! Redcliffe sell-out: Penrith's first match against the Dolphins is officially a sell-out. No tickets remain for the match at Kayo Stadium on Sunday, July 16.

! Fans out in force: How good is this photo? It shows hundreds of Panthers fans lining up to see the side arriving at BlueBet Stadium BEFORE the game against Manly last weekend. There has rarely been so much support for the Panthers in the community, even in the halcyon days of the early 1990s.

EDWARDS SHRUGS OFF ORIGIN TALK

anyone down,” the centre told Extra Time on Tuesday.

Following his spectacular fourtry performance against Manly last weekend, Dylan Edwards’ teammates are now backing the recently engaged father of two to play representative football.

After narrowly missing out on a place in Mal Meninga’s World Cup team last year, there’s now calls from experts and fans for Edwards to wear the Sky Blue in State of Origin this year.

While an injury to skipper and long-time fullback James Tedesco is his only likely pathway into the team, Edwards’ teammate Izack Tago believes he has what it takes to represent New South Wales.

“100 per cent… I don’t think he’d let

“He hasn’t let us down for any game, any moment – he’s always there for the big moments and I feel like that wouldn’t change on that stage.”

Edwards was on fire against the Sea Eagles, scoring three tries in the first half before getting his fourth early in the second in Penrith’s 44-12 thrashing.

Tago said it was exciting to watch the severely underrated fullback rack up a quadruple amount of tries.

“It was mad… I was happy to see him finally get the recognition that he deserves,” Tago said.

“There’s still so much behind the scenes that people wouldn’t observe normally that adds to that. He’s a special talent.”

The 27-year-old was all smiles following Panthers training on Tues day afternoon, however in classic Edwards fashion, he wasn’t willing to talk up his four-try feat to Extra Time

“Yeah, I was in the right place at the right time for a couple of them… it’s nice to get a couple of tries. I’m part of a pretty good side that make it pretty easy,” Edwards said.

“There was a chat on the field about me getting another try, Spud (trainer Shane Elford) was telling us there was a Panthers record of five, but I’m more than happy with four.” Unlike other top fullbacks in the game, Edwards isn’t known for his try scoring capabilities. While he’s fit as a fiddle and his support play is outstanding, he doesn’t cross the line for that many tries. In fact, coming into this year, Edwards only averaged five tries per season. His tally already after five games in 2023 – five.

As humble as ever, Edwards said he was proud of his performance then pulled back all in the same breath.

“Yeah and no… I don’t really think about the tries. Someone else would’ve scored them if I didn’t,” he said.

“It's hard to say… I was pleased with patches of my performance but it’s still kind of early in the year and there’s plenty of stuff to work on.”

With the naming of the teams for the first State of Origin game in Adelaide a little over a month away, there’s a chance Edwards could feature if the cards fall his way.

While Tedesco will definitely get picked by Brad Fittler if fit, there’s an argument that Edwards – the reigning Clive Churchill Medallist – is playing a lot better in the first quarter of the season than other fullback contenders Latrell Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic.

When asked if he heard his name being touted for Origin, Edwards wasn’t buying into it.

“Not really… I don’t look at the news or social media too much,” he admitted.

“I just got asked a question about it then, but nah, there’s plenty of good fullbacks ahead of me. Teddy is there, the incumbent and interna-

Dylan Edwards at Panthers HQ this week. Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Izack Tago says Dylan Edwards should play Origin. Photo: Melinda Jane.

SMITH KEEN TO LEARN FROM THE BEST

NATHAN TAYLOR

With some world class players ahead of him, young Panthers forward Lindsay Smith is happy to learn from some of the game’s best while he awaits his opportunity.

Last Saturday night against the Sea Eagles, the 23-year-old local junior played his second consecutive NRL game of the season –bringing his total tally in the top grade to six matches since making his debut in 2021.

While Smith would love to play regular first grade on a weekly basis, he knows he just has to train hard and stay ready for whenever his coach taps him on the shoulder.

“I just have to keep training at the intensity they expect here and always be ready,” Smith told Extra Time

“I’ve only played a handful of games the last couple of years, but everyone’s journey in the NRL is different and I have to understand that.

“I just have to take it week by week and trust the coaching staff that we have here and take the opportunities where I can.”

A St Marys junior, Smith first entered the Panthers Development Pathways Program at the age of 14 via the club’s Junior Elite Training Scheme.

A former Australian Schoolboys representative, Smith overcome several injury setbacks throughout his junior career, including backto-back shoulder reconstructions.

In Round 13 2021, Smith made his NRL

debut against the Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval before not seeing another game in the top grade until Round 3 last year.

During his time away from the NRL, Smith had been busy plying his trade in the NSW Cup, winning a Premiership and National Championship under coach Peter Wallace last season.

Smith said whenever he gets an opportunity to play alongside his heroes in first grade, he has to pinch himself.

“It’s pretty special playing around some of those boys who have won the last two comps and all the achievements the last couple of years with Origin and all that,” he said.

“It’s special to go out there and be around them and the good thing is, you always feel safe out there with them and just do your job.”

While Smith would love to play more games in the NRL, he knows he has to wait for his opportunity with the likes of internationals James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota, Spencer Leniu and Scott Sorensen ahead of him.

In the meantime, the man they call ‘Larry’ is more than happy to use Penrith’s powerful pack of stars as a source to improve his own game.

“I try and be a sponge at all times,” Smith, who is contracted until the end of the 2024 season, admitted.

“The last couple of years I’ve been getting to learn from them week in, week out, and ask them questions.

“I plan to continue to do that and enjoy the experience whilst I can out on the field and just take it week by week.”

Panthers forward Lindsay Smith in action recently.

Photo: NRL Images.

analysis THANK JIM IT'S FOOTY FRIDAY! $25 JIM BEAM AND COKE BUCKETS

Well I can’t believe a quarter of the season has already passed and the Panthers find themselves in second spot on the NRL ladder courtesy of three wins, two losses and a bye. The start of the year was not what supporters were expecting with two tough one-point losses, but things have really started looking up over the last couple of weeks.

So, without further ado, let’s get stuck into the quarter season report card.

Attack: The Panthers’ attack was spluttering badly during their first three matches with 16 being the highest score they could muster. Not a good stat for any team, let alone one with as many star players as this one. However, the side has definitely found its attacking mojo over the last two weeks and now has the second-best attack in the competition.

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WHAT A CRUEL GAME IT CAN BE

NRL players are well paid and well looked after. On the field and off it, the game is working to make them safer and better rewarded than they have ever been.

It is easy for the casual observer to scan the fame, the figures, and the frills, only to run their mouth off without switching their brain on by considering the totality of a professional rugby league player. Look no further than the Easter round.

matt russell

The injury toll in Round 6 finished only when Adam Doueihi landed on a leg that buckled and set him on the road to a third recovery from a damaged anterior cruciate ligament. Having endured the same injury in 2018 and 2021, he has every right to be devastated by the long road ahead.

If followed Jayden Brailey being struck down by the same injury 24 hours earlier. He was quickly ruled out for the season and has endured the same injury once before, on top of a ruptured Achilles. Three massive stints on the sidelines.

Add to Doueihi and Brailey, Josh Addo-Carr ruled out for eight weeks with an ankle injury; Te Maire Martin out for the same period with a fractured leg; and Griffin Neame taken to hospital with a throat injury that will cost him two months.

Then there’s a story like Toby Sexton, who couldn’t crack an NRL start until Saturday, when he scored the match-winning try, only to emerge with a broken wrist and his own long stint out of the game.

But back to Adam Doueihi, spotted standing alone and downcast in the Accor Stadium underground car park long after full-time on Monday. Glanced from a long way away, there was an urge to go and shake his hand and offer some sort of consolation. Deciding on the spot it was probably the last thing he wanted, I moved on.

When told about that scenario before ‘NRL Tonight’ on Tuesday, retired Parramatta captain Tim Mannah stressed how mentally challenging a long-term injury is, especially when it’s not the first.

“He goes from looking forward to footy each week to knowing there’s a long recovery, time away from the team, hard work. It’s lonely. It’s depressing. It’s horrible. He would have loved you to go over.”

Respected broadcaster Peter Donegan has worked on many Melbourne Cup broadcasts and interviewed many jockeys before the big race, often wished them ‘safe passage’. It’s a nice touch.

The jockeys are only a set of clipped heels away from a life changing injury or death, which makes a season on the sidelines in

footy seem relatively inconsequential, but next time you think an NRL player has it good, think of Adam Doueihi, Jayden Brailey and the others who will face long, lonely,

laborious recoveries after their job is snatched away in an instant. And if you get a chance to say g’day to them and shine a bit of positivity, take it.

hidden panther WHO AM I ?

Adam Doueihi is out for the year. Photo: NRL Images.

PANTHERS CRASH TO SEA EAGLES

The Penrith Panthers have suffered a surprise loss to the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles in the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, falling 26-24 in breezy conditions at BlueBet Stadium on Saturday.

Both teams defended strongly early, before Aaron Woods and Jake Toby combined with Brad Abbey to race 50 metres and open the scoring for Blacktown.

A penalty while in possession against Jesse McLean put the Panthers under pressure and they cracked again, with Clayton Faulalo crossing out wide, before Josh Stuckey spun over in the 26th minute to take a 12-0 lead.

McLean came close to getting the Panthers on the board in the 35th minute, only to lose the ball attempting to ground it.

Luke Sommerton got the Panthers on the board, throwing a dummy and diving under the posts, to cut the deficit to 12-6 in the dying seconds of the half.

They took the lead early in the second half when Liam Henry and Tom Jenkins both touched down on the right.

Three straight tries to Blacktown put them ahead 26-18 within the final 10 minutes, however an incredible trysaver on Toby and Sommerton’s second try gave the Panthers a chance at the death.

It wasn’t enough though, as Blacktown held on to the two-point lead until full-time.

Earlier in Jersey Flegg, an excellent kicking performance by Ryley Smith and Kristian-Li Mai set the Panthers up for a 30-16 win over the Sea Eagles.

Penrith’s first two tries to Luke Philp and Daeon Amituanai both came as a result of Manly’s inability to defuse kicks, while Connor

Mason scored late in the half after grubbering into the upright for himself.

In between, Smith and Li-Mai combined to send Sam Lane over in the corner for a simple try.

Cody Lawson extended the Panthers’ impres sive lead to 24-0 as Manly’s backs still struggled

with kicks in the BlueBet Stadium wind after half-time.

Three quick tries to the Sea Eagles threatened the Panthers, however a late try to Peter Taateo ultimately guided Penrith home 30-16.

Panthers fullback Isaiah Iongi. Photo: NRL Images.

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DOLPHINS ROOSTERS STORM COWBOYS PANTHERS TITANS

DOLPHINS SHARKS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS

RAIDERS EELS

RAIDERS EELS

RAIDERS BULLDOGS

RAIDERS EELS

RABBITOHS SHARKS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS EELS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS

RAIDERS EELS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS

DRAGONS EELS

PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS EELS

RABBITOHS SHARKS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS

RAIDERS EELS

PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS EELS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM COWBOYS PANTHERS BRONCOS DRAGONS EELS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM COWBOYS PANTHERS BRONCOS DRAGONS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS EELS

DOLPHINS ROOSTERS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS EELS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM COWBOYS PANTHERS BRONCOS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM COWBOYS PANTHERS BRONCOS

DRAGONS BULLDOGS

DRAGONS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS SHARKS STORM COWBOYS PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS ROOSTERS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS DRAGONS EELS

DOLPHINS SHARKS STORM WARRIORS PANTHERS BRONCOS RAIDERS BULLDOGS

Pick up a copy of the paper

YOU CAN PICK UP THE LATEST COPY OF THE WEEKENDER AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS EACH WEEK:

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LAUGH UNTIL YOU CRY AT RIVERSIDE

as though they’re back on board, and we’re pretty pumped up about it.”

Sydney’s biggest month of laughs is about to kick off, with some of comedy’s best set to hit the stage at Riverside Theatre in Parramatta.

After a few years of restrictions and alterations, Sydney Comedy Festival’s Director, Jorge Menidis, said he’s ecstatic to see it finally back in full swing.

“Every festival we’ve done in recent years has been under a bit of a shadow, so although we’ve been working really hard, there’s always been that threat of it not happening,” Menidis said.

“Even when we got out last year, audiences weren’t really there, whereas this year it feels

With over 250 shows on the program, this year’s festival will be the biggest ever, hosting exciting acts from all over the globe – some new, and others returning.

Menidis said there are a few that even he can’t wait to see.

“I’d lie if I didn’t say that I was particularly excited about Joe Lycett and Sara Pascoe,” he said.

“But, I’m also super excited about the fresh program that we have, which is unearthing the next batch of acts. If you see ‘Fresh’ on any of our marketing program, that’s an act that we’ve got a lot of faith in.”

Though the talent in the famous Sydney Comedy Festival Gala, which will be held at

Riverside on Wednesday, April 26, is still under wraps, Menidis said audiences should expect to laugh until their cheeks hurt.

“The Galas are a great sampler of what we’ve got coming up,” he said.

“What you can expect is about a dozen acts, and they’re all killer acts. Some will be from overseas, some will be from here, some you will know, lots you won’t, but they’re all going to come out and give you five minutes of ridiculously funny times.”

In addition to the Gala, one of South East Asia’s most iconic and respected comedians, Kumarsutra, will also be taking the stage at Riverside as part of the Sydney Comedy Festival program.

For those who may not have seen his work, Kumar describes his comedic style as ranging

from current affairs and politics to sexual innuendos.

“It’s a bit more daring, and edgy,” he said. The festival will see Kumar heading back to Australia for just the second time, and he couldn’t be more excited.

“I love the audience, so I’m happy to be coming over again,” he said.

The show, ‘Greatest Hits’, will be on Saturday, April 29, and is a culmination of Kumar’s best work, showcasing all that made him famous in the first place.

“I’m going to be saying a lot of old jokes that I’m not going to say again ever, and, of course, a lot more new stuff,” he said.

Sydney Comedy Festival will be on across Sydney from April 24 to May 21. Visit sydneycomedyfest.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

From the page to the stage

Next week, head to The Joan for ‘Are We There Yet?’ – a play by Finegan Kruckemeyer, based on the book by Alison Lester. Featuring songs, fun and quokkas, ‘Are We There Yet?’ is a celebration of family, love and the diversity of our beautiful country. Performances will be held on Tuesday, April 18 and Wednesday, April 19. To book, head to thejoan.com.au.

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.

Penrith Markets

Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

Regular events.

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Sunset Station Singers

Mondays 7pm, St Marys RSL. Rhonda 0408 218 965. The Sunset Station Singers entertain residents mainly in nursing homes. The song list is over 130 songs, ranging from their old time favourites to more current songs.

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

Saturdays 4.30pm, WSU Kingswood Campus. Guan 0422 120 738. Tai chi and qiqong exercise.

School Holidays Wake Camp returns

Kids in the kitchen at Grill’d Penrith Cables Wake Park will be holding their advanced School Holidays Wake Camp next week. On from Tuesday, April 18 to Thursday, April 20, the camp will see kids set goals and achieve with professional coaching and personalised access to Cables’ world-class training facilities. All meals provided and Aqua Park sessions included. Visit cableswakepark.com.au.

Next Tuesday, April 18, Grill’d Penrith will be serving up a whole lot of fun in their Kids Masterclass. Aimed at kids aged five to 10, the class will have participants seeing all the secrets to their famous burgers, learning the ‘superpowers’ of great nutrition and building a perfect burger from the bun up. For more information, visit grilld.com.au.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Penrith Lions Club

Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546. For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit the Lions on Facebook.

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542.

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0402 699 611.

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.

Penrith NASHO’s monthly meeting

Penrith RSL Club. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

Tuesday and Thursday 9am-5pm. 7/458-470 High Street, Penrith.

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.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42

Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

The Nepean Naval Museum opened in 2014 and is the area’s first museum dedicated to the naval forces. The Museum houses a collection of Naval forces memorabilia.

Arms of Australia Inn

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

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.

Nepean Puffers & Wheezers 1800 654 301.

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

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

Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call

There is no question that ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ needed a big Hollywood name to get it across the line, and thankfully Russell Crowe delivers... almost.

Crowe’s performance in the horror flick is the film’s saving grace in what is an otherwise bumpy ride.

Crowe plays an Italian priest in 1987 working under the authority of the Vatican to investigate alleged demonic possessions.

We’re told that 98 per cent of these possessions are really mental illness related, but there’s the other two per cent we must consider. These small percentage of cases are “pure evil”, we’re told.

One of these situations appears to have occurred within an American family that has recently moved to Spain, with a child

being possessed and Father Gabriele Amorth (Crowe) sent to investigate.

As Amorth works out a way to tackle the demon, and cruel his devastating intentions, the Pope stays back in Rome to investigate the abbey the family has inherited – could it actually hold the answers?

Some of the film’s best moments are actually its attempts at comedy – Amworth riding through the streets of Spain on his motorised scooter brings more than a smile.

The movie’s climax is rather elaborate and it’s not much a pay-off for what we’ve been through for the majority of the film.

‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ is far from a terrible movie, but it promises plenty without really delivering much substance.

– Troy

Dodds

Looking for something to impress on your next date night?

Look no further than Riverside Bar & Dining. This beautiful restaurant provides stunning views of the river, while treating your loved one to delicious food and cocktails. Why not try the Date Night Special? Consisting of a mouthwatering share entree platter for two and any two signature or classic cocktails for just $30!

This special is available every Thursday from 5pm.

DATE NIGHT

Dancing up a storm: Mayoral Ball is the perfect night out in Penrith

Beloved Australian singer, actor and television personality David Campbell will visit Penrith in May to host an event that will help change the lives of local women and children in need.

Campbell (pictured) is the confirmed Master of Ceremonies for Penrith’s inaugural Mayoral Charity Ball being held in support of The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter on May 5.

This event will bring together a night of entertainment, touching true stories and community celebration for the life-changing work of this local service, while fundraising to expand the support available on the ground so that no one is turned away.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen thanked Campbell for recognising the significance of the Mayoral Charity Ball.

“It means a lot to the Penrith community to have a well-known Aussie entertainer acknowledge that there is a real need in our City and to get behind this worthy cause,” she said.

“I wholeheartedly thank David Campbell for wanting to be part of this event, to help spark important conversations around domestic and family violence.

“This fundraising effort will ensure that many more local women and children who have been impacted will have access to a safe space in their time of need.”

Campbell said: “I am incredibly honoured to MC this charity evening. The Haven is doing vital work for the community and I

hope we raise a lot of much-needed money.”

Tickets for the Mayoral Charity Ball are on sale now and include a $50 donation to The Haven.

Guests will hear from Campbell, Hitchen and Chair of The Haven, Sharon Levy, and there will also be an illusionist show, a silent auction, and other entertainment, plus a three-course meal and drinks. All funds raised on the night will be donated to The Haven.

To find out more, visit penrith.city/events. Tickets can be purchased directly via the Eventbrite page for the Mayoral Charity Ball – Penrith 2023.

M

a

Friday 5 May 2023

Evan Theatre, Panthers Penrith Rugby Leagues Club

Time 5.30 - 11pm

Dress Black tie attire

Ticket $200pp - includes $50 charitable donation

DATE NIGHT

Paint your partner! The unique date night concept right here in Penrith

If you're looking for the perfect Penrith date night with a twist, why not head to Pinot & Picasso.

And on May 12, couples can paint each other in a unique experience at the Penrith studio.

It’s a real art knowing who someone truly is. How well do you know your partner?

Join Pinot & Picasso for a fun filled session and get to know one another deeper as you work your way through fun conversation starter cards and add colours of meaning to the background of your painting.

For those who don’t know what an aura is, it is a special quality or feeling that seems to

come from a person, place, or thing. What aura does your partner emanate? Come along and learn more in this vivid, vibrant and fun painting session!

BYO partner and favourite glass of pinot and connect with colour at Pinot & Picasso!

If the May 12 event isn't for you, make sure you get in contact with the Pinot & Picasso team or browse the website to see other upcoming events, or to book a private night at the studio – perhaps with other couples!

Pinot & Picasso Penrith is located at 458 High Street, Penrith.

Visit www.pinotandpicasso.com.au for more details.

The perfect date night to make deep connections!

Paint Your Partner

Aura Edition

A fun-filled arty session where you get to learn more about each other as you work your way through entertaining conversation starter cards and add colours of meaning to the background of your portrait. Laughter guaranteed!

Book now at www.pinotandpicasso.com.au/penrith

is not only your one stop shop for all high-quality Golfing equipment, it’s the most swingin’ place in town for your next date night!

Take a swing on the Big Swing Golf virtual green and stay for some food and drinks. With a massive screen and a selection of exciting games, Big Swing Golf delivers a oneof-a-kind simulation for golfers and non-golfers alike!

Available from Monday 9-5.30, Tuesday through to Friday 9am –10pm, Saturday & Sunday late with bookings.

Friday/Saturday nights fill up fast, so book now to secure your spot!

KINGSWOOD

we’ve got you covered

Kingswood locals can pick the paper up at the following locations

SHOP

COUNTRY BREWER

HALLANI’S

KINGSWOOD HOTEL

KINGSWOOD NEWSAGENCY

KINGSWOOD SMASH REPAIRS

KINGSWOOD SPORTS CLUB

PENRITH GAELS CLUB

RADHE INDIAN

GROCERY STORE

VOLUNTEERS DESK

NEPEAN HOSPITAL

7/11 KINGSWOOD

CIRCUS FUN IN THE MOUNTAINS

This school holidays, see the winners of the 2021 Gasworks Circus Showdown Adelaide Fringe Award in action at Blue Mountains Theatre.

‘BOOP’ by Statera Circus will transform your everyday supermarket into a joyous world of trolley races and edge-of-your-seat stunts, as a ragtag team of employees try to find their place in the world by travelling into existential spirals of absurdism.

The hilarious and inventive 50-minute show will immerse the whole family into the show, with physical theatre, clown and acrobatics galore.

westernweekender.com.au/getapaper

In creating BOOP, Statera engaged at-risk youth through a collaborative creative development process, resulting in a show

that’s not only something you’ve never seen before, but delves into the ideas of capitalism and self-discovery in the fast-paced, ‘memey’ performance.

Plus, for children aged eight to 12, the team from Statera will be holding a one-hour circus and physical theatre workshop, which will see participants jump and run around in a fun and safe environment.

There’s nothing better to encourage them to give it a go than the promise of theatre games, creative acrobatics, and letting their imaginations run wild.

‘BOOP’ will be on at Blue Mountains Theatre on Wednesday, April 19 at 10.30am. Tickets are $28 adults or $25 child/concession, and $18 for the workshop held after the show at 12.30pm. For more information or to book, visit bluemountainstheatre.com.au.

Give a little time for someone who’s out of time

Caring for someone approaching the end of their life can be a uniquely rewarding and enlightening experience.

Palliative care volunteers offer companionship and practical help to people living with a life limiting illness, their carers and families.

Ordinary men and women can give the extraordinary gift of their time and compassion during a period when it is most valuable.

The Nepean Hawkesbury Palliative Care Volunteer Service, coordinated through Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, is seeking volunteers who are patient, flexible and non-judgmental, understanding and accepting of other people’s beliefs and values.

Jenni cared for her husband, Jeff who had motor neurone disease. Sadly, Jeff passed away in early 2019.

“Our volunteer carer Margaret seemed like an instant friend. She and Jeff hit it off from the beginning, you could see they had a great caring relationship. The Service matches personalities with clients which I believe is a big help. I needed to get out for different things and knowing Margaret was there made those respite times easier,” says Jenni.

Volunteer carer Margaret (pictured middle) says, “Doing the volunteer work is a way of giving back. It’s a privilege to be welcomed into someone’s home at such a difficult time. For me, it’s about doing what I can to ease the burden, both for the carer and for the patient.”

The Nepean Hawkesbury Palliative Care Volunteer Service is inviting enquiries from people interested in supporting someone at end-of-life in their own home or in Nepean Hospital.

There is also opportunity to become a Volunteer Biographer, capturing someone’s reflection of their life and sharing their story in a written memoir.

Volunteers only need to commit up to four hours of their time each week. Clearance checks, training and ongoing support are provided. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator on 0401 715 851 for more information.

Nepean Palliative Care Volunteer Service

Carolyn Wilkinson, Volunteer Coordinator 0401 715 851

Carolyn.Wilkinson@health.nsw.gov.au

CASSIDY PEARCE

BARISTA BAR COFFEE

(NEPEAN PRIVATE HOSPITAL)

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê One of Australia’s great comedy shows ‘Thank God You’re Here’ is officially returning to 10 this year. Casting is already underway for some of this country’s best improv talent, with Celia Paccquola confirmed as host. The original series ran on both 10 and Channel Seven between 2006 and 2009 to excellent ratings. It’s expected to launch later in the year.

Ê One of my all-time favourite shows, ‘Travel Guides’, is coming back for a new season this Wednesday, April 19 at 7.30pm. The popular Channel Nine series returns for a sixth season with most of the usual cast. The only change is cowgirl Mel is taking time off to be with her baby, with twin sister Stack joined by her younger brother, Josh. This season will see the guides travel to some exotic destinations including the Arctic Circle where yours truly ran into a few of them on a recent holiday to Finland.

TUESDAY,

12PM WHITE HOUSE PLUMBERS, FOX SHOWCASE

Ê Former ‘Australian Survivor’ and ‘MasterChef’ contestant Khanh Ong will host his first TV series on SBS Food from Sunday, April 30 at 8.30pm. ‘Khanh Ong’s Wild Food’ is a 10-part series that explores Australia’s wild side, combining regional produce, adventure and a hint of glamour.

Ê Exciting news for cricket fans, with Foxtel extending its long-term partnership with the Indian Premier League as the exclusive tournament broadcaster in Australia until at least 2027. The renewed five-year deal will see 74 matches made available to its 4.6 million subscribers each season across Foxtel and Kayo Sports. The 2023 season is currently airing on FOX Cricket.

Ê New eight-part local drama series ‘The Messenger’ will premiere on ABC on Sunday, May 14 at 8.20pm. Based on Markus Zusak’s best-selling novel of the same name, ‘The Messenger’ tells the story of Ed Kennedy, who becomes an accidental hero when he receives mysterious messages scribbled on playing cards that set him on a strange jour-

ney. But what he does with them allows Ed to change lives, most of all, his own.

Ê The sequel to the hugely popular Chris Hemsworth action flick ‘Extraction’ will drop on Netflix on Friday, June 16. After barely surviving the events of the first movie, Rake is back as the Australian black ops mercenary, tasked with another deadly mission: rescuing the battered family of a ruthless Georgian gangster from the prison where they are being held.

Ê New limited series ‘White House Plumbers’, starring Woody Harrelson and Justin Theroux, will premiere on FOX Showcase and Binge on Tuesday, May 2 at 12pm. ‘White House Plumbers’ takes the audience behind-the-scenes of the Watergate scandal as Nixon’s political saboteurs, E. Howard Hunt (Harrelson) and G. Gordon Liddy (Theroux), accidentally topple the presidency they were zealously trying to protect… and their families along with it.

Get Macca’s®

TV Guide: April 14–20

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

10:00

Sandown *Live*

(PG) 6:00 Seven

Movie: “Peter Rabbit 2: The

(PG) (’21) Stars: Rose Byrne 9:00 Movie: “My Best Friend’s Wedding” (M l) (’97) Stars: Julia Roberts 11:15 TBA 1:00 Home Shopping

12:00 Surfing Australia TV 12:30 The Pet Rescuers (PG) 1:00 Living Proof 1:30 Lego Masters - Grand Masters (PG) 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s

2:50 Movie: “Looney Tunes: Back In Action” (G) (’03) Stars: Brendan Fraser 4:40 Movie: “Blast From The Past” (PG) (’99) Stars: Brendan Fraser 7:00 Movie: “Maverick” (PG) (’94) 9:40 Movie: “The Butterfly Effect” (MA15+) (’04)

3:50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 4:50 Bush Bands Bash 5:55 Power To The People (PG) 6:25 Chuck And The First People’s

(’03) Stars: Jack Black 9:15 Movie: “The Spy Who Dumped Me” (MA15+) (’18)

2:00 Movie: “I Live In Grosvenor Square” (G) (’45) Stars: Anna Neagle 4:25 Movie: “The Cruel Sea” (PG) (’53) Stars: Jack Hawkins 7:00 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: Waratahs v Force *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post Match

Movie: “Blast From The Past” (PG) (’99) Stars: Brendan Fraser 6:00 Modern Family (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M)

8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M) 11:30 Hell’s Kitchen USA (M l)

2:30 One Mississippi (M l,s)

2:00 Froth 2:30 Still Frothin’ 3:00 AFL: Women’s Under 18s

4:15 AFL: Men’s Under 18s

5:40

5:00 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:10 Movie: “Spy Kids” (PG) (’01) Stars: Antonio Banderas 7:00 Movie: “Ocean’s Thirteen” (PG) (’07)

Stars: Brad Pitt 9:30 Movie: “Logan Lucky” (PG) (’17)

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

2:20 Movie: “The Small Back Room” (PG) (’49)

Stars: David Farrar

4:30 Movie: “The Thousand Plane Raid” (PG) (’69) Stars: Christopher George 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Battle Of Britain” (PG) (’69) Stars: Michael Caine

Last week’s solution

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black . These need to be filled in with numbers that is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

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

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store. The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

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: SQUIRRELS

ARBOREAL

BURROWS

BUSHY TAIL

CHICKAREES

DIURNAL

FLYING

FORAGING

FOREPAWS

FOX SQUIRREL

GIANT

GRAY

GROUND

HAIRY TAIL

HIBERNATE

HINDLIMBS

LEAP

PRAIRIE DOG

PYGMY

SHARP CLAWS

STRONG LEGS

TUFTED-EAR

VEGETARIAN WOODCHUCK

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about western Sydney radio stations in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. Who hosts the breakfast program on western Sydney radio station, SWR?

2. Who hosted the high profile breakfast program on the now defunct KICK FM when it launched in Penrith in 2007?

3. Which decade of music does online western Sydney radio station MY88 focus on?

4. Previously on the 87.6 dial in Penrith was which radio station that played classic songs from the past?

5. Which local radio station broadcasted Penrith Panthers games from 1967 until 1993?

6. In 1990, 2KA converted to the FM band. What was the new station name?

ANSWERS

1. Wayne Buscombe

2. Jason Bouman and Amanda Flynn

3. 1980s

4. Vintage FM

5.

2KA

6. ONE FM

more than just home brew

• Cheese Kits

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Liqueur

Essences

If

No. 641 you would like more information about what we do, call us on 4731 5444 or pop in 218 Great Western Highway, Kingswood.

their wise teaching. Then Lord willing, one day they can affirm me into the next steps of what that might look like to glorify God best from

Maddie Marlow, one half of country duo Maddie & Tae, has announced she and her husband Jonah Font are

“We are so excited to become parents,” Marlow

“We’ve always wanted babies, so it is surreal that this chapter is beginning for us. We feel so grateful that God chose us to be this sweet little boy’s parents!”

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The big challenge this week is the Sun/Pluto square on Thursday, which could reactivate a festering family issue that’s been brewing and stewing. Tonnes of Aquarian tact – and a heap of humility – will get you through. With Jupiter and the fiery Solar Eclipse stimulating your neighbourhood zone, expect increased social and educational activities in your local community. When it comes to an ongoing neighbourhood problem, think global and act local.

Jupiter and the Solar Eclipse shine a light on your self-esteem. So steer clear of criticism (in person and online); avoid letting negative self-talk drag you down; and stop worrying about the qualities you perceive you don’t have. Be your number one fan! Confidence is the rocket fuel that will take you where you want to go. As birthday entrepreneur Victoria Beckham says, “If you haven’t got it, fake it.” So your motto for the week is ‘Fake it until you make it!’

It’s action stations, as Jupiter and the Solar Eclipse turbo-charge your motivation and boost your determination. If you’re lacking confidence (and feel more like a meek lamb than a courageous ram) then spend time with an uber Aries friend. Hopefully, some of their chutzpah and self-assurance will rub off on you and activate your fiery Sun! So your motto for the week is from Aries actress, producer and entrepreneur Reese Witherspoon, “Confidence is everything.”

People are looking to you for powerful leadership. Taurus is a fixed sign and you can be a bossy, stubborn Bull. Aim to be more adaptable and adventurous this week, as you focus attention on helping those around you. Being of service to others sees you glow on the inside. When the Sun shifts into your sign on Thursday, it’s time to sparkle and shine, as you call in a few old favours. When you’re firing on all cylinders, it’s hard for others to resist your bovine charms!

This week Venus (in your sign) and Mars (in your money zone) stimulate your urge to splurge on extravagant purchases that you don’t really need. So perhaps it would be best for clever Twins to avoid spontaneous spending sprees … both in person and online.

In the words of financier J. P. Morgan (who was born on April 17, 1837), “If you have to ask how much it costs, you can’t afford it.” Mercury turns retrograde on Friday so prepare to revise, reboot and re-do.

Avoid being a lonesome Crab! Professional projects and creative collaborations with colleagues are favoured, as you spark ideas off each other and pool your talents to produce something special. The Solar Eclipse and Jupiter increase enthusiasm and encourage rebooting a rickety work relationship that’s been experiencing problems. But be careful you don’t get into an emotional stew over a festering secret, a broken promise or a breach of trust.

On Thursday there’s a fiery Solar Eclipse in your adventure zone, which is good for travel, exploration and exciting new beginnings. But relationships with loved ones or colleagues could be stressful as Pluto squares the Sun, which boosts your bossy streak. And then Mercury turns retrograde, which will limit patience, shorten timelines and lengthen frustrations. So you’ll need to be on your best behaviour if you want to cruise through the week!

Mercury turns retrograde from Friday until May 15. So – even though there’s a New Moon/Solar Eclipse on Thursday – it’s not an appropriate week to expedite tasks, initiate ideas or race ahead with projects. Instead, use the time wisely to revise, research and review. Be patient, pace yourself and move ahead slowly in stages. Your motto is from birthday great, financier J. P. Morgan, “Go as far as you can see. When you get there, you’ll be able to see further.”

This week positivity planet Jupiter and the Solar Eclipse energise your relationship zone, so you’re keen to motivate, encourage and inspire others. But are you barking up the wrong tree? Wisdom for the week comes from writer (and birthday great) Charlotte Bronte, “What you want to ignite in others must first burn inside yourself.” The weekend stars favour reflection, relaxation, listening to your inner voice and paying attention to your nightly dreams.

Jump off the comfy couch! This week’s dynamic stars encourage you to be proudly proactive as you get your body moving, set challenging daily goals and then actively pursue them. Not sure how to do that? Try rubbing shoulders with your kickass Aries friends … they’ll show you how to crank up your motivation and energise your enthusiasm. But – with Pluto squaring the Sun – be careful you don’t stir up trouble and play power games.

With your sparky Sagittarian mojo and momentum running on high speed, you’re ready to rock and roll! Jupiter (your power planet) and the Solar Eclipse activate your leisure and pleasure zone. So all forms of entertainment will appeal as you socialise with friends and enjoy yourself to the max. However – with Mercury reversing through your job zone – be careful you don’t say the wrong thing to the wrong person at work. Think things through before you speak.

This week’s fiery Solar Eclipse promises a fresh start involving family plans, a domestic situation, a revamped living space or a new housemate. But the difficult Sun/Pluto square – and Mercury turning retrograde – could delay a project, exacerbate a misunderstanding with a friend or frustrate a financial situation. So proceed with a pragmatic attitude plus plenty of tact and caution. As birthday great Charlotte Bronte reminds us, “Look twice before you leap.”

BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOHO ASTRO - JOANNE MADELINE MOORE

PET CHAT

Easter is over, but the chocolate egg danger for our beloved dogs remains

Do you still have some hidden eggs in the backyard from the Easter egg hunt or left over chocolate? As much as you might want to spoil your pets with some of the goodies, there is one treat that can be particularly dangerous for your pets – chocolate.

Chocolates contain a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion of even small amounts of chocolate can cause a range of symptoms in pets including vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, hyperactivity, tremors and seizures. In severe cases, it can result in death.

Easter is one of the biggest chocolate holidays of the year, making it a particularly dangerous time for pets. With Easter eggs and chocolate bunnies aplenty, it’s common for pets to find their way into the sweet treats. Aside from the theobromine content, chocolate also contains high amounts of sugar and fat which are not good for pets. Consumption of these ingredients can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and allergic reactions.

It’s important for pet owners to be mindful of what foods their pets consume, especially

during holidays. Here are a few tips to keep your pets safe during the Easter holidays:

• Keep all chocolate and other sweets out of reach of your pets, and especially dogs.

• Educate your children and guests on the dangers of feeding chocolate and other sweets to pets.

• If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate, seek veterinary attention immediately.

In conclusion, while Easter is a festive time for humans, it can be a dangerous time for pets. As tempting as it may be to share your chocolate treats with your furry friends, it’s important to remember that chocolate is not safe for them to consume. Being vigilant in keeping chocolate and other sweets away from pets is the best way to ensure a safe and happy holiday period for all, including our furry companions.

There are plenty of other options if you want to treat your pets. Pet Food Australia has a range of all natural delicious treats including dried green lipped mussel. Dogs and cats love them! A healthy range of food and treats can be ordered online at www. petfoodaustralia.com.au.

It’s one of the most common ailments people endure on a daily basis yet so many only find short-term solutions to chronic headaches.

Taking a painkiller or having a rest are some examples of short-term strategies that provide only temporary relief.

However, many headache sufferers do not seek, nor receive the treatment they need as they are unaware of the help available to them.

So, what do you need to know about headaches?

Determining the headache type and cause Headaches are always caused by a trigger. Depending on that trigger will depend on the type of headache a person suffers and how it presents and behaves.

There will usually be symptoms a sufferer can identify that will give insight to the type of headache they are experiencing.

A very common headache type, Cervicogenic headaches can be identified from symptoms such as stiffness, dysfunction or pain in the neck.

It is these common triggers that refer pain to the head.

How does tension in the neck cause headaches?

The trigger of Cervicogenic headaches comes from the neck, but sufferers often do not make the connection.

This is because people associate the painful area as the problem area which is not always the case.

Often in Cervicogenic headaches it is often a restricted joint in the neck, neck muscle weakness or prolonged poor positioning. This can create tension that can travel up to the head, causing headaches.

This is why without targeted intervention to the cause of the pain, long-term headaches often recur.

How does physiotherapy provide longterm relief?

Physiotherapy practices focus on providing treatments that deal with the pain triggers for long-term headache relief.

Performing exercises that focus on strength and muscle activation is a primary goal of physio treatments to relieve the pain at the trigger spot.

Once this is achieved, your physiotherapist should investigate, recommend and trial other changes in your daily routine to prevent the source of the pain continuing such as sitting/sleeping posture correction, workplace ergonomic checks and mobility improvement.

Getting to the source means finding a longterm solution!

So it’s time to put a stop to ‘band-aid fixes’ and start seeking long-term solutions provided by a physiotherapy professional.

Pet of the Week

My name: Max

My proud owner: Lisa Hutchison I live in: Cranebrook

TALKING TECH

WITH DAVID NORRIS • NORTEC IT • 9894 9514

Handy tool or invasion of privacy?

Google Maps is a powerful tool widely used for navigation, but did you know it also has a feature called Google Maps Timeline? Timeline is a feature that allows users to track their movements and location history over time and stores it in their Google Account. It is an opt-in feature that can be turned on or off any time. Once enabled, Timeline will keep track of all the places you visit, the routes you take, and the times you arrive and leave each location. This information is then compiled into a timeline you can access through the Google Maps app or website.

One of the most significant benefits of Google Maps Timeline is that it can help you remember where you have been.

For example, if you are trying to recall a restaurant you visited a few weeks ago, you can check your timeline to see the exact location

and time of your visit. It can also help track your travel history when on vacation. It will also display photos taken within the Timeline. After recently travelling to Mexico, we found this feature brilliant as it helped us catalogue our photos. If Google is unsure of the location,

Timeline allows you to confirm or edit the information.

One of the biggest disadvantages of Google Maps Timeline is privacy concerns. The feature tracks your every movement and location down to the restaurant name or location name. While Google assures users

that their location history is private and only accessible, some users may still feel uncomfortable with the amount of data being collected.

I don’t have any issues with this, given that other social media applications also track your location.

To access your Google Maps Timeline, you must have location history enabled in your Google account.

You can check if it is enabled by going to your Google Account settings and selecting “Data & Personalisation”. From there, you can scroll down to “Location History” and make sure it is turned on. Once you have location history enabled, you can access your timeline.

To use Timeline, scroll through your Timeline to see your location history. You can tap on specific dates for more detailed information about your movements that day. You can also edit or delete specific locations if you do not want them to be included in your Timeline.

Google Maps Timeline works on both Apple iOS and Android phones. You must give the application access to location services on both platforms.

Please play with it and let me know what you think.

Brand new way to drive

Car rental innovator KINTO has announced the nationwide launch of KINTO Flex, a new subscription-based, all-inclusive car rental plan which offers Aussies the benefits of car ownership, without the long-term commitment.

KINTO Flex allows users to take freedom to the next level by providing the benefits of car ownership on a monthly subscription basis. With the option of booking a car to suit the individual’s needs across over 160 national locations, shortening or lengthening the subscription and paying by the month, KINTO has created a car service that truly adapts to the user’s lifestyle.

Whether in need of a zippy hatchback to run errands or an SUV for the family – KINTO’s range of majority hybrid vehicles will get users from A to B in comfort and style.

Users pay a monthly duration fee plus a per kilometre fee that is inclusive of fuel, insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, maintenance, and servicing – no sign-up fee, no security deposit or establishment fee. Drive as little or as much as needed with no excess km or additional driver fees.

Service is all managed through KINTO’s purpose-built smartphone app. From sign

up and picking a vehicle, to unlocking the car and hitting the road – enjoy fully digital self-service car rental.

What’s more, KINTO Flex is powered by a fleet of trusted Toyota cars, and with a passenger fleet consisting of over 97 per cent hybrid vehicles, Australians can rest assured they are travelling safely and sustainably.

Users can also extend their subscription through the digital self-service function within the KINTO app, and if they’re ready to unsubscribe from KINTO Flex, cancel free of charge from the upcoming bill cycle with just seven days’ notice.

“We believe that everyone deserves the freedom to move, so we’re thrilled to be expanding

KINTO’s local offering and now offer Australians a car subscription that adapts to their lifestyle,” Mark Ramsay, General Manager of KINTO said.

“We’ve seen the demand for short-term and flexible mobility increase, and KINTO Flex is the nation’s answer to those who want all the benefits of car ownership for those who may not want to take the leap yet into purchasing their own vehicle.

“There is no one size fits all to travel, that’s why we prioritise flexibility and are creating a service that aims to fit into the lifestyle of our customers, not the other way round. KINTO Flex allows users to drive some of the latest cars without any long-term commitment, and

the flexibility to adapt to their lifestyle, and we hope the Australians love KINTO Flex as much as we do.”

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations, Sean Hanley, said the expansion of KINTO’s services will offer consumers even greater freedom and flexibility.

“The introduction of KINTO Flex offers Australians the next best thing to vehicle ownership, as it is simple and easy to drive the latest Toyota vehicles, including our popular hybrid models,” he said.

KINTO Flex subscriptions start from $1215 per month and $0.17 per kilometre travelled. Visit KINTO.com.au.

EMUS READY FOR NEW SEASON

Determined to succeed. See page 71.

Blencowe gets back in the cage

Jordan Springs MMA fighter Arlene

Blencowe celebrated her 40th birthday this week, but the mother of two said the celebrations won’t truly begin until she knocks off her latest opponent at Bellator 294 in Hawaii next week.

It’ll be the second time in 12 months Blencowe has fought in the Aloha state after she went down to the legendary Cris Cyborg in the Bellator Women’s Featherweight World Championships last April.

Blencowe’s nail biting defeat at the hands of Cyborg was the last time she stepped foot in a cage. Now she’s hungrier than ever to get back in.

“I was really hoping to be stepping back in the cage late last year, but nothing came to fruition,” Blencowe told the Weekender from the US.

“I was actually super keen to get back in there ASAP after my last fight and build off that momentum and confidence I gained from fighting Cris.

“I knew I wouldn’t be matched as soon as I was wanting, but I definitely thought I would’ve been on by November.”

During her longer than usual layoff, Blencowe remained in the gym, building on her skills for whenever her next fight would be.

“I knew that after a performance like my last one, I wanted to get back in there with all that I had learnt in that fight, but also add some finesse to my skills and

become a better fighter,” Blencowe said. “Each fight is a learning curve and I know I haven’t given my absolute best yet.”

Blencowe discovered she’d be on the bill for Bellator 294 while at a fight camp in Albuquerque last January. After a longer than usual camp, which comprised of two stints, Blencowe said she’s more than ready to take on former Olympian Sara McMann next week.

“It feels like it’s been a really long camp. As always, it’s a rollercoaster but this is my last week of training and I’m feeling very sharp and ready to go,” she said.

“Sara is an Olympic silver medallist in wrestling, that is an extremely high pedigree of a skill. Wrestlers are tough and hardworking.”

After representing the US at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, McMann wrestled all over the world before switching to MMA in 2010.

The 42-year-old, who fought for many years with the UFC, will make her Bellator debut against Blencowe at Honolulu’s Neal S. Blaisdell Arena.

“Sara is on her promotional debut and she knows that a win over me will align her with an eventual title opportunity,” Blencowe said.

“I know I’m in for a hard 15 minutes of grinding to get that win. That’s what I’ve prepared for. I expect nothing less than another tough fight next Friday night and I welcome it. Ideally though, I’ll finish her quickly with some solid punching.”

10play will stream the fight live.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Arlene Blencowe at her fight camp in New Mexico last week.

Finals in sight for Wanderers as drought on verge of ending

The Western Sydney Wanderers can secure their first playoff berth since the 2016/17 A-League season when they battle last placed Melbourne Victory tomorrow night at CommBank Stadium.

A win over the Victory will give the Wanderers enough points to lock in their place in the coveted top six with just two games in hand.

The Wanderers could’ve secured their Finals fate last Saturday against lowly Macarthur, however the two sides ended up sharing the points after an epic draw at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

With the end of the see-sawing match fast approaching, both sides were locked up at one goal apiece before the home side broke the deadlock to lead 2-1 in second-half stoppage time. With the Bulls looking likely to take all three points, the Wanderers pulled off the near impossible when Brandon Borrello notched up his second goal of the match with a 96th minute header into the back of the net.

The goal stunned the home crowd, who thought their team had done enough to secure the win and keep their slim Finals hopes alive.

“We played really well the first half, controlled the ball, penetrated, scored a goal – it was a really good first half performance. I told them to stick to the principles, but we didn’t do that in the second half and that’s what disappointed me the most,” Wanderers coach Mark Rudan said at full-time.

“For sure we left the two points out there, particularly against a team we’ve beaten comprehensively the last two games and we understand they are fighting to make the top six, which makes it a lot harder, but we shouldn’t worry about that.”

Asked what his side took away from the result heading into their first Finals Series in six years, Rudan was rather blunt with his response.

“We’re not there yet, we still have to make sure that we are there and that’s the key for us,” he said.

“We take out that we had a really solid first half performance away from home and to score basically with the last kick of the game, it shows that mentality that we are trying to create and it’s been evident throughout the year. “As disappointing as it was to concede in extra time, they didn’t drop their heads and that’s the real positive as far as I’m concerned.”

The Wanderers will play two of their remaining three games at Parramatta to round out the regular season. Rudan said a clean sweep of victories in the coming weeks should give his side a home final.

“We have two games at home now and the expectation is to win both of those games,” he said.

“We want to not just be in the semis but have a home final as well – that’s also a massive carrot for us.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

The Wanderers celebrate a goal last weekend.

Impressive paddlers selected in National Development Squad

Two local teenage paddlers have a very bright future ahead of them after they were selected in the Canoe Slalom National Development squad for 2023.

11 athletes from around the country were chosen in the exclusive team, with 15-yearold Ada Mackie and 13-year-old Sevan Billaut among those selected.

The National Development Squad was designed to identify young paddlers with the potential to reach current and future national teams, and provide opportunities for paddlers to learn what is required to train and race at an elite level.

Paddle Australia Performance Pathways

Lead and former Australian paddler Ros Lawrence said she was excited to work closely with the talented group over the next 12 months.

“There were some wonderful young paddlers nominated for the National Development Squad this year,” she said.

“The strength of the juniors across the country is a testament to the great development that is happening in our state hubs.

“I am excited to work with this year’s squad, and continuing to grow the National Development Squad for years to come.”

Speaking with the Weekender, Cranebrook resident Ada Mackie said she’s looking

forward to spending more time on the water as part of the squad.

“I hope to gain more experience, more sessions and I’ll get to work under the best coaches,” she said.

The Lakes Christian College student took up paddling when she was eight-years-old after moving to the area from South Australia.

“I was just looking for something to do. We moved here from South Australia and I was sitting around the house and this was down the road, and I thought ‘why not?’” Ada said.

“I’ve been doing it for seven years now and I enjoy the friendships you make. There’s so many kids doing it your age and you get to

know a lot of people.”

Year 9 student at Blaxland High School, Sevan Billaut, has also been paddling for most of his life after his father, a former French team paddler, introduced him to the whitewater.

“Dad used to race with France and he introduced me pretty early, when I was five,” Sevan told the Weekender

“I’m looking forward to being part of the squad as I’ll get to paddle more often and get more training sessions on the whitewater during the week.”

Currently focused on the K1 event, the Leonay resident said he loves the feeling when he’s out paddling and hopes to make a long-

term career out of it.

“I just love it because it’s outdoors, I love the water and feeling my boat glide through it,” he said.

“Hopefully I can get into the NES, which is the National Emerging Squad, and then one day into the Senior team.”

If you want your child to give canoe slalom a crack, the Western Sydney Whitewater Club, who are affiliated with Paddle Australia, will host a free Talent Identification camp for 11 to 16-year-olds at Penrith Whitewater Stadium from April 19-21.

For information and to register for the upcoming event, visit https://bit.ly/3ZIgjmM.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Leonay’s Sevan Billaut on the water. Photo: Melinda Jane. Teenager Ada Mackie has a big future in paddling. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Around The Grounds

BASKETBALL: Following last weekend’s Easter break, Penrith’s men’s and women’s teams will return to the court on Friday night to face the Hills Hornets in Round 5 of the NBL1 East competition. As it stands, Penrith’s women’s team are currently sitting in 10th spot with one win and three losses to their name. Penrith’s men’s team are struggling in the new competition, sitting in last place with no wins so far. Both games tonight will be played at Hills Basketball Stadium.

PREMIER LEAGUE NETBALL: Following the Easter long weekend, Panthers Netball’s Opens and U23’s teams will return to the court to take on the Central Coast Heart in Round 3 of the Netball NSW Premier League. Both sides are playing well to start the season, with the U23’s undefeated after two rounds.

SUPER NETBALL: Giants Netball are finally celebrating their first win of the season, defeating the Adelaide Thunderbirds 59-54 in Round 4 of the Super Netball competition last weekend. It was a tight contest throughout and despite a strong performance from the home side, it was the Giants’ desperation that got them over the line in the end. Behind the strong shooting of Sophie Dwyer, well assisted by Jo Harten, the Giants meant business at the start of this game. On defence, Amy Parmenter had active hands early and was doing what she does best, making things difficult for the Thunderbirds. This continued throughout the game, her, and Jamie-Lee Price’s presence proved insufferable for their opposition. The Giants will aim for two wins in a row when they face the Collingwood Magpies this Saturday evening at Ken Rosewall Arena.

HARNESS RACING : Port Au Prince has taken out the 2023 Renshaw Cup, held at Penrith Paceway last Thursday night. Driven by Joshua Gallagher and trained by Kerryann Morris, Port Au Prince reached the finish line first ahead of Total Diva in second and Naturally Gifted in third. The team behind Port Au Prince took home a whopping $50,000 for winning the famous time-honoured event. The Renshaw Cup will return to Penrith next year.

AFL: It was an unhappy Easter Sunday for the GWS Giants, going down to Essendon 88-75 in Round 4 of the AFL competition. It was the Bombers’ first win over the Giants since 2019, but it just wasn’t GWS’ day, who were well in the fight before some crucial errors cost them. The Giants will strangely take a home game to Norwood Oval in Adelaide this Sunday afternoon when they do battle with Hawthorn. They’ll be looking to snap a three-game losing streak.

SOCCER: The Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed the re-signing of dynamic midfielder Bethany Gordon until the end of the 2023/24 A-League Women season. Gordon was pivotal part of the Wander Women’s midfield this season and featured in 18 matches. The western Sydney local scored two goals for the Red & Black and was looking forward to continuing to build on her impressive performances next season. “I’m from western Sydney, I am very proud to be from western Sydney, so to be able to represent all of the members and fans that come and watch our games, it’s what I’m here for,” Gordon said.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan@westernweekender. com.au.

Hope lives on for determined Emus

“The coaching staff are now more experi enced and they know what to expect,” McColl said.

Despite not winning a single game in first grade, the Penrith Emus hope to build on last year’s efforts as a club as they enter their second season in Canberra’s John I Dent Cup.

After being unfairly axed from Sydney’s Shute Shield competition in 2021, the Emus were given a lifeline last season by the ACT & SNSW Rugby Union to join the Brumbies’ feeder competition.

While their first grade side failed to chalk up a win, Penrith’s Colts and Women’s teams both made the Finals in what was an incredible year for the pair.

With the 2023 John I Dent Cup season set to kick off this Saturday, Penrith Emus President Gary McColl is expecting continued improvement across the board.

“We want to keep building from the ground up. We want our Colts to be strong again, so they can move up to first grade. Four of our Colts made the Brumbies U19’s squad last year, which was a great achievement,” he said. With former New Zealand rugby player and coach Ronnie Patea back at the helm, recruitment has been strong at the Emus during the off-season.

“Last year every team we played was an unknown but we now know what the strengths and weaknesses of our opposition are.

“In first grade we’ve recruited some new players and we’re hoping they will deliver. We also have plenty of guys coming back with only a couple moving on.”

The Emus will make the three-hour journey from Nepean Rugby Park to Phillip Oval in the ACT this Saturday morning ahead of their 3.05pm clash against the Canberra Royals.

It'll be a tough start for the Emus to kick off the season, playing last year’s Grand Finalists in back-to-back weeks.

“On Saturday we play the Royals in Canberra, who made the Grand Final last season, and the following weekend we play defending Premiers Queanbeyan at home, so two tough games to start it off,” McColl told the Weekender

“Every club that visited us at Nepean Rugby Park last year really enjoyed it. We tried to be accommodating and welcoming, so what was really good.”

Oh and we checked, the world-famous Emusburgers will be back for next Saturday’s big home opener at Nepean Rugby Park!

Draft Cranebrook Overland Flow Flood Study

Penrith City Council invites residents to have their say on the Draft Cranebrook Overland Flow Flood Study which is on public exhibition from Thursday 6 April to Friday 5 May 2023.

The study area includes the suburbs of Cranebrook, Northern Penrith and parts of Castlereagh and Cambridge Gardens.

The flood study will help us to better understand, plan for and manage the risk of flooding across the catchment.

You can view the draft study report via the Your Say Penrith website: yoursaypenrith.com.au/cranebrookfs or in person at:

• Penrith Library or Civic Centre

- 601 High Street, Penrith

• St Marys Library

- 207-209 Queen Street, St Marys

Got questions?

A community information session will be held on Thursday 20 April from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre, 17-35 Hoskings Street, Cranebrook.

The Penrith Emus return to the field this weekend.

NATHAN TAYLOR

SPORT

Paddlers on the rise – see page 69

Gak heads north for new season

call-up from the Chicago Bulls to play at NBA Summer League last year.

Former St Dominic’s College student Akoldah “AK” Gak will remain in the NBL next season after signing with the Cairns Taipans on a two-year deal.

The 20-year-old Penrith Basketball junior joins the Taipans from Illawarra, where the Hawks secured the NBA prospect on a threeyear contract when he was just 18.

Instead of accepting US college offers during the pandemic, Gak completed his final year of high school online and was rostered as a development player during his first NBL season under Brian Goorjian.

“AK is exciting. He has the ideal blend of strength and athleticism that’ll complement our style of play,” Taipans coach Adam Forde said.

“He has spent time in Illawarra learning from great coaches, while learning what it takes to be a pro. He also won the Players’ Player award there which highlights the type of character and work ethic we will expect from him here.

“AK is not your normal 20-year-old – he’s been in the league for three seasons already. I anticipate his impact for us to be immediate and eye-opening.”

In his past two seasons at the Hawks, Gak has played limited minutes, but still got the

“AK has NBA ambitions. During the recruiting process, we spoke with his Summer League coaches and they were honest in their feedback,” Forde said.

“They said he possesses all the physical tools to make the transition, but just needed some more polish to his game.

“Our plan here is to provide him that opportunity in Cairns. He’ll showcase his talents to help us win, and we’ll help him reach his full potential.”

In February, on a visit back home to Penrith, the 210cm forward was mobbed by students, asking for selfies and autographs, when he wandered through the playground during school lunchtime at St Dominic’s.

Gak was in town to check out his very own mural, which the Kingswood-based college had commissioned at the same basketball court he played on growing up.

“That was crazy! It was chaotic,” Gak told the Weekender at the time.

“This is the first time I’ve been back in six years. It just shows, it’s love from the school. I love that I came back and showed my support to them.”

Gak is currently playing with Queensland side the Southern Districts Spartans in the NBL1 North competition. He’ll link up with the Taipans later this year.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Akoldah Gak in front of his mural at St Doms.

Photo: Christina Michaleris.