Western Weekender December 16 2022

Photo: Melinda Jane.

After decades of debate, an ambitious plan to transform the 2000-hectare Penrith Lakes site into a waterfront destination has been unveiled.

The rebranded Western Sydney Lakes could see the Lakehouse Pier, a two-storey pavilion with dining and retail options, constructed next to a walkway surrounding 700 metres of sandy beach and safe swimming access to a 121-hectare recreational lake.

An 80-hectare piece of land known as Southbank will include a business park, a commercial precinct and tourist accommodation.

There will also be a film and TV studio, 18-hole golf course, a rowing facility plus cycling and walking trails including a 20-kilometre extension of the Great River Walk.

“Western Sydney Lakes is entering its next phase of renewal and will transform into a major tourism and recreation destination that will be locally loved,” Western Sydney Lakes CEO Jacqueline Vozzo said.

“Upon completion, this will not only be western Sydney’s playground, but one of the country’s truly iconic attractions that combines the best that a harbour foreshore

and

“The

visit, with access to fresh water against a panoramic backdrop. The precinct has the potential to offer a variety of destinations delivering regionally significant open spaces

that are supported and enhanced by sustainable mixed use urban development.”

The vision was shared at last week’s Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue’s annual Boomtown! Property and Infrastructure Summit.

“This is a once in a generation opportunity to totally transform a disused site in the heart of greater western Sydney into a unique amenity for all to enjoy,” Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue Chairman Christopher Brown said.

“We have long campaigned for access to swimmable waterways in the region, and we urge the State Government to get behind this project and deliver much needed green and blue open spaces that the people of western Sydney are crying out for.”

Parts of the proposal are currently being assessed by the NSW Government, but some community members are questioning if the long-discussed dreams will ever become a reality.

State Member for Londonderry, Prue Car, agrees with the sentiment.

“The NSW Government have failed to get Penrith Lakes open to the public a decade after promising to do so, keeping the precinct under lock and key,” Ms Car said.

“It’s a precinct that should be opened, but residents are right to ask how they could trust yet another announcement from the current NSW Government when the community has seen no real action during the 12 years they have been in office.”

beachfront has to offer in the heart of western Sydney.

Southbank precinct offers a refreshing climate for people to play, work, relax and

Penrith Lakes could be transformed into a major waterfront destination.

Penrith’s

EMILY FESZCZUK

Drones,

missing dog Can we track down Bailey?

attempt to

EMILY FESZCZUK

Amonth-long search for a missing dog has brought the Penrith community together but a twist could take it in another direction.

Local resident Shayne Winfield has been searching high and low after his 15-month-old Golden Retriever named Bailey got washed down the Nepean River on November 17.

“My partner Heidi was walking Bailey and let him off the lead as he loves swimming in the river, but he went to a different spot and chased some ducks in,” Mr Winfield said.

“She wasn’t alarmed as he is a strong swimmer and kept walking but when she turned around, she couldn’t see him, and a man fishing said he had gone over the weir.”

Dreading that he may have drowned; the pair didn’t lose hope and searched up and down both sides of the river every day and did letterbox drops.

They narrowed down possible sightings to a parcel of land

behind the Regatta Centre on Old Castlereagh Road.

“The Penrith Lakes Development Corporation were great giving us access and letting us search as we heard barking, but the land is so vast, by the time you get there it stops,” he said.

“There were other signs that we think could have been him like different prints and bundles of feathers, but the ground is now too dry, and all of the other signs went cold.”

Sharing the search online, it garnered attention from community members who wanted to help.

“The local people who have seen my posts and flyers have been so helpful coming to look for him and we have had four people put up drones, one used a thermal scope, and some have been out walking to look for him,” Mr Winfield said.

“I drive a truck for a living, and I see the worst of people around Sydney with inconsiderate behaviour on the road so to see this response from a local community is really touching.”

Suggested by some of the volun-

teers and desperate for any new information, Mr Winfield was connected with two independent mediums who gave eerily similar recounts.

“They both believe Bailey is alive and was picked up by a young man who drives a dark blue or black dual cab 4WD who has a dog of his own that found him in a secluded area of the Nepean River upstream from where he went missing,” he said.

“The person had good intentions but has now become attached and is keeping Bailey in a house in Emu Plains with the word ‘Walker’ and the number five coming through, as well as a triangle associated with the house.

“I understand how crazy his sounds, but I am determined to get our boy back so am looking into it and offering a $500 reward for his return.”

Anyone who spots Bailey or with more information about his whereabouts can contact emily@westernweekender. com.au or call us on 4722 2998. Information can be kept anonymous.

flyers and even mediums used in desperate

find

Golden Retriever Bailey has been missing from Penrith for a month.

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Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Like many of you, I’ve spent the last couple of weeks going to various Christmas parties and end-of-year catch-ups.

And what became glaringly obvious over this period was how much Penrith is on a growth trajectory, with incredible investment into our city and venues that we once had to jump on a train or in the car and travel for an hour to experience.

I kicked off the Christmas party season by attending the Chamber of Commerce’s event at the Rusty Penny Brewery. It’s one of a number of breweries that have opened up in recent times, each one offering something unique and filling what was a significant gap in the market.

Long gone are the days where a VB or a Tooheys New were what defined Penrith’s beer drinking culture.

These days it’s more about The Nepean or Penrith Lager at Rusty Penny, the Halfway Haze from Squinters or perhaps a Status Quo Pale Ale from Mountain Culture in Emu Plains, where I happened to end up last Friday. What an impressive fit-out this facility is; signifying yet again further investment in Penrith and its surrounds.

And soon Drink West will open at Manufactor, in itself an impressive new development that will also house Brisket Boys – the latest in a string of restaurants that are helping take Penrith out of its dining slumber.

Indeed, it was less than 10 years ago that all of my favourite restaurants and cafes were in the city or Parramatta.

Now, they’re all in Penrith, headed by The Union, Chechos, AG Bar & Restaurant and Percy Plunkett.

Last Thursday I was up at Astina and Theo’s, a development and bar almost unthinkable in Penrith a decade ago.

This week I’ll be headed to the opening of The Flower Shop, a hidden bar on High Street that will be the place to be this summer.

Just up the road is Elton Chong, where you can rediscover your youth in a ‘dive bar’ environment that is a heap of fun.

Head down the road a little and you’ll be at Panthers where the continued investment is obvious, with a major new conference and corporate centre, along with a hotel, being built out the front.

Keep going and you’ll be at the site of The Orchard, which will open in the new year and be yet another game-changer in Penrith.

The best thing about all of this is that everyone is co-existing; proving there’s very much room for everyone in a growing Penrith. Nobody is forcing anyone else to close their doors; such is our desire to stay closer to home for our entertainment.

There is work to do, of course, but I’m not sure there’s a better time to be in Penrith than now.

Penrith is only going to get better.

In a few short years Penrith will have a major international airport on its doorstep.

St Marys, often the forgotten part of our Local Government Area, will become one of the most important transport and business links in the country.

The completion of the next stage of WestConnex will ensure a Penrith local can drive into Sydney without seeing a single traffic light.

We will, hopefully, have a brand new stadium we can be proud of; hosting sporting and entertainment events the current Penrith Stadium simply wouldn’t be capable of handling.

And Penrith Lakes, one way or another, will become a stunning part of our city; finally reaching its potential.

Council is doing its bit too; the Tench Reserve and Regatta Park transformations will help make Penrith one of the best places for recreation in Sydney.

Along with all of this there will be more restaurants, more shops, more businesses and importantly, more jobs.

Plenty will laugh at this column, or disregard it. I can see the Facebook comments now; and when you read them, start writing a list – they’re the people who can’t see what’s happening right in front of them.

There’s a whole bunch of people investing in Penrith right now. Many have lived here their entire lives, and instead of heading elsewhere to make their money, they’re doing it right here at home. We lost that for a while, now we’re getting it back.

Not everything that happens in Penrith will be your cup of tea.

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

For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

The after-party to this particular event, which I swiftly avoided as part of my ‘be careful of the second venue’ rule, was at Duck Duck Goose, another new venue.

Only a few years ago searching anywhere in Penrith to have a drink after 9pm on a Thursday would yield only a couple of stock-standard results. Now, it’s all changed.

Of course the naysayers will disagree with that, throwing out the argument that Penrith’s best times are behind it, muttering something about the “good old days”.

One day, these times we’re in now will likely be the “good old days” too.

I too look back at the Penrith I grew up in fondly.

But I can also recognise the current growth our city is experiencing is a good thing; not something to groan about.

Index

And indeed there are still problematic parts of our city; it will take some time before a lot of that is addressed.

Penrith is growing, and growing for the better. The rest of Sydney hasn’t quite realised it yet, but then again neither has half of Penrith itself.

It’s a special time in the story of our region, and if you don’t believe me, you’re either looking in the wrong places or you’re impossible to please.

“I’m not sure there’s a better time to be in Penrith than now”

Penrith steps into the future as home of plant-based products

Penrith is now home to Australia’s first plant-based meat ingredient facility that has plans to help create a more sustainable future.

Federal Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic officially opened Harvest B on Tuesday in the new industrial hub, Manufactor.

With the proteins used as key ingredients in plant-based meat products traditionally imported, the company now converts locally grown grains and other ingredients into a product that can be sold to brands who make plant-based meals or alternatives to things such as sausage, patties and mince.

With a growing population of eight billion people and a global need to manage emissions, Harvest B Co-Founders Alfred Lo and Kristi Riordan have come up with a complementary protein solution that is affordable and more environmentally friendly.

“It made absolutely no sense that high quality, Australian grown produce is shipped offshore to be processed only for us to buy it back at higher costs as finished consumer products,” Ms Riordan said.

“It became quickly evident to Harvest B that there was a significant opportunity for this value add to be done in Australia, creating local jobs and greater export opportunities.

“To ensure we can grow our business, Harvest B invested heavily in research and development to create a novel product range that we believe exceeds the taste, texture, and price expectations of our consumers.”

The Federal Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) co-invested $1 million in the company with industry partners, including Woolworths’ venture fund W23 in a bid to boost Australia’s

manufacturing capability.

“Australia is a nation blessed with abundant natural resources, yet we have relied too heavily on the luck associated with trading these commodities in a raw state,” AMGC Managing Director Jens Goennemann said.

“Like Harvest B, we should be leveraging our smarts and add value to these high-quality natural resources – right here in Australia.”

Offering an initial output of 1,000 metric

tonnes of product that does not require a cold-chain solution and boasts a long shelf life, Mr Husic congratulated the team on an innovative product that can also be exported.

“We want to see more of this in this country, that is why we introduced in the previous sitting of parliament the National Reconstruction Fund legislation, $15 billion of which a big priority will be the value-add in agriculture,” Mr Husic said.

“We do believe Australia should be a country that makes things. We can do it, we’ve got the people, we’ve got the capital, we’ve got the great ideas so we should make this happen.”

Harvest B intends to initially develop 10 different product lines with substantial export into Southeast Asia which is already presenting opportunities.

Kristi Riordan, Ed Husic, Alfred Lo and Jens Goennemann trying Harvest B products.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Some of the Harvest B products.

EMILY

FESZCZUK

Being financially impacted over the last few years, Penrith City Council is working towards strong financial management, including chasing overdue rates to gain income.

In accordance with guidelines, Council staff prepared the 2021-22 Financial Statements which were referred to the Audit Office of NSW and then placed on public exhibition, a process that received no submissions.

A report to Council completed the final stage of the process which noted that the Rates and Annual Charges Outstanding percentage of 5.2 per cent is now above the benchmark of five per cent.

“The pre-COVID June 2019 result was 3.37 per cent and the amount has continued to increase during the pandemic,” it stated.

“This increase is predominantly attributed to Council’s compassionate approach to debt recovery during the pandemic and during the recent flood events, including a pause in taking legal action against ratepayers with significant overdue rates.”

A recommendation that the Councillors adopted at a recent Ordinary Meeting will see a recommencement of debt recovery processes to manage operational management.

“It is intended that debt recovery processes

will now revert to the pre-pandemic processes, including the recommencement of legal action in March 2023, after the third instalment due date,” the report said.

“The recommencement of legal action will be in line with most other councils who have recommenced such action.”

It acknowledged that while cost-of-living increases add to the pressure ratepayers face, it is not in their best interest for their rates debt to increase.

It said that Council will still continue with a compassionate approach when ratepayers make contact to see assistance.

A separate report in the same business paper outlined Council’s progress towards implementing its four-year Delivery Program for the first quarter period of July 1 to September 30, 2022.

Projecting a balanced budget in the adoption of the Original 2022-23 Operational Plan, it documented that the September quarter presented some variations.

A positive variation was Council receiving its 2022-23 Financial Assistance Grant entitlement which was $386,413 more than originally budgeted for the General component.

Vacancies across departments led to a net salary savings of $158,391 and the NSW Government has continued for a third year to cover the increased costs of the Emergency Services Levy.

Losses were recorded when it came to library income as visitor numbers have decreased since COVID and inflated costs for the Cooks and Banks cricket practice facility upgrade have affected the budget.

Despite ongoing challenges, the mostly favourable variations resulted in a surplus.

“It is proposed as part of the Review to transfer the first quarter surplus of $593,170 to the Financial Management Reserve. This allocation will provide capacity to respond to any current and emerging priorities, including some of the priority resource requests and results in a balanced budget position being predicted for 2022-23,” the review said.

Penrith City Council is in a strong financial position.

EMILY

Former top cop farewelled

Emotional scenes in Glenmore Park as police turn out in tribute to Tony Lauer

The community came out in force at Grace West Anglican Church in Glenmore Park on Tuesday to farewell former NSW Police Commissioner Anthony “Tony” Lauer.

Born in Newcastle on December 19, 1935, Mr Lauer moved to Springwood at the beginning of the Second World War, before calling Kingswood, Emu Plains, Castlereagh, and Glenmore Park home.

Suffering from the terminal disorder Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, Mr Lauer passed away peacefully at home with family on November 30 at age 86.

Married 67 years to his wife Joy, who passed away in April, Mr Lauer loved his four children, Tony, Debbie, Rodney and Tanya, along with his 15 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Living for his family, Mr Lauer’s daughter Debbie Thornhill told the Weekender that he had a passion for the Police Force.

“His mother wouldn’t let him have a motorbike, so he joined the police on the bikes at Penrith in 1955 and it became his life,” Ms Thornhill said.

“He improved himself by going to university for Criminology as a mature age student and studied with the FBI in Virginia, USA because he always believed that you never stop learning and bettering yourself.”

The Police Commissioner of NSW from 1991 to 1996, Mr Lauer was a Life Member and former President of the Police Association of NSW, a former board member and Chairman of the Police Bank, and a former Grand Master of the NSW/ACT Masonic Lodge.

He belonged to both the Blue Liners and Ulysses Bike Groups and enjoyed learning about history and reading. While he will be greatly missed, Ms Thornhill said her father would want to be remembered for his achievements during his 41 years of service.

“He would want to be remembered for changing standards for the police officers and their families. Listening to others and acting appropriately,” she said.

“He believed everyone should always aim high in life no matter what humble beginnings you come from as he did by example.

“He was a doer and a leader of his generation.”

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb attended the service and a procession of police vehicles formed afterwards to honour him.

“I had the privilege of knowing Tony through my time in the NSW Police Force, and I can wholeheartedly say that he was a gentleman who changed lives for the better,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Tony always found time to visit police stations across NSW, to check in on the welfare of his staff and their family members.

“On behalf of Council and my councillor colleagues, I’d like to express my condolences to Tony’s family, friends, and the extended NSW Police force.”

Mr Lauer’s funeral service is available to watch on YouTube.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen paid her respects during Monday’s Council meeting noting “he made his mark as a strong leader and a dedicated mentor”.

There were emotional scenes this week as Anthony “Tony” Lauer was farewelled. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Police, family and friends turned out in force to honour the former NSW Police Commissioner. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY FESZCZUK

penrith.city/christmaswaste

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

30 January 2023 – 7pm Online via penrith.city (Ordinary Meeting)

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Council’s Civic Centre, St Marys Service Desk, and Library branches will be operating with shortened hours on Friday, 23 December and Saturday, 24 December before closing for the Christmas and New Year break until Tuesday, 3 January 2023.

The eLibrary and Online Services Portal will still be accessible during the closure period. Waste collections will operate as per their scheduled collection days.

For more information, visit penrith.city/news

● Penrith City Library’s 2023 Local History Calendar takes you back to some of Penrith’s suburbs’ naming origins. See how Penrith has changed and developed over the years with photos of suburbs such as Emu Plains, Penrith and Kingswood.

The Calendar is available at Council’s Library branches for $5. Get your copy today.

● Penrith is home to a wide range of exciting adventure attractions and activities, and the new Penrith Visitor Guide can provide you with all the information you need to dive right in!

Don’t be fooled by the name. The guide is not just for visitors! We’re positive it will become your go-to guide to a great day, weekend or night out. From indoor skydiving and jet packing, to axe throwing, and hand feeding lions and baboons, Penrith delivers.

Grab a copy of the Visitor Guide at the Penrith Civic Centre or online at visit penrith.com.au

Public Exhibitions

Planning Proposal for Affordable Rental Housing Contributions for

Glenmore

Stage 3 and Orchard Hills North

You are invited to provide feedback by making a written submission to Council by Monday, 19 December 2022 by:

• Email: cityplanning@penrith.city

• Post: The General Manager (Attention: Kathryn Sprang)

Penrith City Council, PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

• Online: planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ppr

Please include a subject line indicating ‘Affordable Rental Housing Contribution’ in emails and letters.

For further enquiries please contact Kathryn Sprang, Senior Planner on 4732 7834 or email cityplanning@penrith.city

Planning Proposal for Draft Development Control Plan (DCP) and Letter of Offer to enter into a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for 221–235 Luddenham Road

Planning Proposal

Council is exhibiting a Planning Proposal, draft Development Control Plan (draft DCP) and Letter of Offer to enter into a VPA (Letter of Offer) for 221–235 Luddenham Road, Orchard Hills.

The Planning Proposal seeks to amend Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 to rezone part of the site from RU2 Rural Landscape to part IN1 General Industrial and part IN2 Light Industrial. The Planning Proposal will also apply a maximum height of building control of 24metres, a minimum lot size control of 1,000sqm, and minimum lot density provisions.

The draft DCP contains specific development controls that apply to future development within the site and will form a chapter of Penrith DCP 2014.

The Letter of Offer seeks to enter into a VPA for the provision of key infrastructure at no cost to Council. A draft VPA will be prepared and reported to a future Ordinary Meeting of Council to be endorsed for public notification as a separate process to the Planning Proposal and draft DCP.

Park

Council invites you to view and provide feedback on a Planning Proposal to amend Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP 2010) to enable Penrith City Council to collect contributions for the delivery of affordable rental housing. The Planning Proposal applies to future residential development within the proposed urban release areas of Glenmore Park Stage 3 and Orchard Hills North.

The objective of the proposed amendment is to increase affordable rental housing within Penrith Local Government Area.

The NSW Department of Planning and Environment has authorised Council to exercise delegation to make this plan.

Viewing the exhibition and making a submission

The Planning Proposal, and supporting information are on public exhibition until Monday, 19 December 2022. The documents can be viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au, at Council’s Civic Centre and at Penrith and St Marys Libraries.

Viewing the exhibition and making a submission

The Planning Proposal, and supporting information are on public exhibition from Thursday 15 December 2022 until Monday, 6 February 2023. The documents can be viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au, at Council’s Civic Centre and at Penrith and St Marys Libraries.

You are invited to provide feedback by making a written submission to Council by Monday, 6 February 2023 by:

• Email: Glen.Weekley@penrith.city

• Post: The General Manager (Attention: Glen Weekley)

Penrith City Council PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

• Online: planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ppr

Please include a subject line indicating ‘221–235 Luddenham Road, Orchard Hills’ in emails and letters.

For further enquiries: Please contact Glen Weekley, Executive Planner on 4732 7415 or email Glen.Weekley@penrith.city

Locals urged to keep security front of mind during holidays

CASSIDY PEARCE

With summer now well underway, many will soon be setting off on holiday adventures. But, as important as it is to properly plan your getaway, it’s equally vital to keep in mind what you’ll be doing with your home in the meantime.

Though Nepean Police Area Command (PAC) Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Richard Gentle, said that there hasn’t been any local evidence of an increase in break and enters during this period, that’s not to say there aren’t people who will try to take the chance.

“There are certainly people out there that do take the opportunity to do the wrong thing, though here at Nepean, there’s nothing to suggest that we do have an increase or spike,” he said.

However, it’s because of these few opportunistic individuals that Detective Inspector Gentle encourages residents to be aware this holiday period.

“It’s always good to be proactive and ensure that you’ve got strategies

in place to ensure that you’re not a victim of crime,” he said.

When it comes to what you should be doing to keep your home safe, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference.

Ultimately, it can be pivotal to ensure that your home looks lived

in, by employing a family member, friend, or neighbour to do things such as taking your bins out, or picking up deliveries.

“It’s important to keep things as normal as possible,” he said.

“Something as simple as clearing out the mail from the letterbox can

make a big difference. There have been instances where people will actively target those places that appear to be vacant, or appear not to be lived in during that time, so having a neighbour looking out for your property is a very worthy approach.”

Providing this person with contact details and an itinerary of your trip can also be helpful in ensuring that they’re aware of your whereabouts, and are able to reach you in the event of any uncertainty.

Having security systems and CCTV cameras can also be a surefire way of scaring away those who are considering doing the wrong thing.

“Anything that will deter a would-be offender, we would definitely suggest,” he said.

“Places that have CCTV cameras anecdotally tend to not be victims, or the subject of break-ins, because of the propensity of being caught.”

Detective Inspector Gentle is reminding everyone that if you see something, it’s important to say something.

“If you do see anyone hanging around or loitering around an area and they look suspicious, contact Crime Stoppers or the Police, and we’ll always attend to check those people out,” he said.

“We do rely heavily on the community, and this would be one of those important times where, if they do see something, they’re our eyes and ears.”

Public Notice

Section 38B Roads Act 1993 –

Proposed Road Closing

In pursuance of the provisions of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council proposes to close the Council public road listed in Schedule 1. Schedule 1: Part Chatsworth Road, St Clair. The location of the road is identified in the map below outlined in red.

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

• Ansa Homes Pty Ltd DA22/0948 Lot 43 DP 16478, 30 Inkerman Road, Emu Heights Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of 2-storey dwelling, tree removal, retaining walls and asset protection zone

• Who Pools & Excavations Pty Ltd DA22/0998 Lot 1063 DP 1215087, 12 Lance Street, jordan springs Swimming pool

• Michael Edwin Breckenridge DA22/1055 Lot 43 DP 236855, 2 Blackbutt Place, Leonay Deck and awning

Shopfront alterations and signage (Shop SP001 –Knockout Nutrition)

• Leaf Architecture DA22/0986

Lot 138 DP 2576, 90–98 The Lakes Drive, Glenmore Park

Removal of 2 existing signs and installation of 1 double sided pylon sign with digital display

• Jaryd Nematalla DA22/1002

Lot 6 DP 239315, 31 Treetops Avenue, South Penrith

Demolition of existing carport, tree removal and construction of a secondary dwelling with attached garage associated with the primary dwelling

• Sharon Ann Jones DA22/0966

Lot 62 DP 218969, 5 Fairways Avenue, Leonay

Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling including an attached garage

• Mark Zeina DA22/0965

Lot 3052 DP 263158, 2 Melaleuca Place, Kingswood

Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling including a first floor addition and attached secondary dwelling

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 of the date of this notice.

For all enquiries: Please contact Rhi Slaughter, Project Officer on 4732 7777 or rhi.slaughter@penrith.city

Development Application

The following Development Application has been received by Council:

• ES Drafting DA22/1126

182 Oxford Street, Cambridge Park

Demolition of an existing dwelling and associated structures, and construction of a single storey co-living housing development containing 5x rooms and 1 x manager room and associated works pursuant to State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021

Contact: Jane Hetherington 4732 8078

Closing Date: Monday, 30 January 2023

• Jye Saliba DA22/0833 Lot 202 DP 811535, 4 Komirra Road, Cranebrook Detached secondary dwelling

• The Cobra Group (Aust) Pty Ltd DA21/0991 Lot 6 DP 259038 and Lot 90 DP 883411, 30 Bent Street, St Marys

Alterations and additions to an existing resource recovery facility to increase the processing quantity to 24,000 tonnes per annum

• Care Park Group Pty Ltd DA22/0882 Lot 100 DP 1255804, 38 Somerset Street, Kingswood

Directional signage for Somerset Specialist Centre

• Alicia Jade Buchanan DA22/1029

Lot 102 DP 258210, 72 Pyramid Street, Emu Plains

In-ground concrete swimming pool

• Larissa Ribeiro-Piedade

Lot 47 DP 236855, 1 Deloraine Drive, Leonay

Home business – beauty therapy

• Mark Zeina

Lot 1 DP 715198, 122 Station Street, Penrith

• Zac Homes Pty Ltd DA22/0701

Lot 131 DP 216783, 17 Panorama Road, Penrith

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 2-storey attached dual occupancy

• Luke Sleiman DA22/1102

Lot 100 DP 1258889, 11 Perth Street, Oxley Park

Strata title subdivision x 8 lots

Refused Development Application

• The Trustee for Hsem Holdings Trust DA22/0993 Lot 4 DP 718232, 1 Water Street, Wallacia

Boundary fencing

Viewing of Development Applications

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

DA22/0890

DA22/0989

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

Richard Gentle at St Marys Police Station. Photo: Melinda Jane.

cupboard prize

The Vitis Vinifera Rejuvenating 3-Step System by luxury skincare brand, Enbacci, harnesses the antioxidant benefits of lab-engineered grape stem cells to protect skin from free radical damage and combat the physical signs of premature ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles, texture, and pigmentation.

Cultivated from the meristems of the Gamay Teinturier Fréaux, a French genus of grape, this celebrated botanical is rich in phytonutrients, including polyphenols, peptides and proanthocyanidins; and contains

the cellular benefits of kinetin, a ‘super-antioxidant’, which is purported to protect human skin cells from oxidative stress and stimulate the synthesis of regenerative enzymes.

Containing a foaming gel cleanser, soothing facial mist, and nourishing moisturising crème, the innovative formula is enriched with green tea, witch hazel, and aloe vera to soothe skin sensitivity and redness, balance sebum production, and restore hydration.

Extending epidermal cell activity and encouraging the proliferation of new, healthy skin cells, the Vitis Vinifera Rejuvenating range is ideal

for all ages, genders, and skin types, and serves as an effective preventative treatment for ageing and compromised skin conditions.

To learn more, please visit www.enbacci.com.

The Weekender has four Enbacci gift packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Enbacci’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, December 21 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available on our website.

paceway winners lucky

A pat on the back this week to radio stalwart John Stanley. Not only is his Nights program recording incredible ratings on 2GB, but he stepped up at late notice to take over Breakfast.

ANSWER

Christmas is fast approaching and if your kids are animal lovers, there's some great toys on the shelves this year.

Vacation in style with the all-new Hatchimals CollEGGtibles Rainbow-cation Camper (RRP $49.99) playset that is loaded with an exclusive poodle family, over 10 accessories and a sticker sheet. This transforming camper van turns into a vacation playset with a pop-up bed, kitchen area and pool area for the perfect family vacation. Suitable for children aged 5+ and available at Big W, Kmart, Target and all good toy retailers.

Looking for something different?

Hidden inside the puffiest fluff, FurFluffs (RRP $49.99) is an adorable pet looking for its fluff-ever home. With over 100 sounds and reactions, you never know what adorable response you will get. These adorable soft interactive toys transform from fluff to pet once you have earned their trust. Available at Big W, Target and all good toy retailers.

The Weekender has two Furfluffs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Furfluff’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Sunday, December 18 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

Spider season has some serious bite this year

CASSIDY PEARCE

Though for many the warm weather has been a welcome rest from back-to-back months of rain and flooding, it seems we can’t truly catch a break, with rising temperatures and humidity creating the perfect environment for eight-legged creepy crawlies.

In addition to the hot weather, the past few months of rain has seen spiders returning to homes and backyards, much to the dismay of residents, said the Australian Reptile Park Reptiles and Spiders Keeper, Sam Herrmann.

“With all the heavy rain, where they’re living is flooding and they’re moving around a lot, which means that people will encounter them a lot more as they try to seek shelter,” he said.

Mr Herrmann is reminding everyone to stay calm, with a few precautions going a long way in helping everyone avoid them.

“Anything that’s going to be in use that stays outside is always to be checked. If it’s shoes, tap them, or

tools, anything like that,” he told the Weekender

“Keeping stuff clutter-free can always help, nice and tidy around the backyard so there’s not as many places for these animals to hide.”

In the case of most spiders, Mr Herrmann said that they’re very easy to live alongside – as you likely have been already.

“If you haven’t seen it, it’s probably been there anyway for quite a while, and it’s lived peacefully without you even knowing about it,” he said.

But, for more dangerous species’ it’s important to get rid of them in the proper manner – with an increase in funnel web spiders the primary root of warnings.

“Anything like a funnel web, obviously there has to be caution taken, because they can deliver a pretty painful and harmful bite,” he said.

“We do encourage people to catch those funnel webs safely – we have lots of videos on our social media and all of our media that explains how to do this.”

But, if they beat you to it, there are a few steps to take in the event of being bitten.

“If you have been bitten by a spider

and you’re not sure what it is, if the spider is right there in front of you, you can always take photos and call any sort of wildlife officer,” he said.

“If you are thinking that it’s a funnel web, or even a redback spider, then the safest thing to do is

follow the first aid procedure, which is using a bandage or a compression bandage, and basically wrapping the limb up on which you were bitten – so if you were bitten on the left hand, you would bandage right up your left arm all the way to the

shoulder and back down if you can.

“You want to keep that limb as still as possible, stay as calm as you possibly can, and then call 000 and let them know what’s happened, so you can receive assistance once you get to the hospital.”

A funnel web spider can be extremely dangerous.

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LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Mount Vernon: Man charged after truck found on rural property

A man has been charged after being caught trespassing and stealing a motor vehicle in Mount Vernon.

Between 3pm on Friday, December 9 and 9am on Saturday, December 10, a Kenworth prime mover and attached semi-trailer were stolen from an address in Bligh Park.

About 12pm on Sunday, December 11, a man attended a rural property that he was renting on Mamre Road, Kemps Creek.

He allegedly located the prime mover, attached semi-trailer and another two trailers on the property.

The man said he did not know who owned the truck and trailers and contacted the owner of the property. The owner attended and matched a stolen truck on a Facebook post to the truck that was on his property.

As the men were standing there, it is alleged that a 38-year-old Cranebrook man attended the location and informed the men that he was there to pick up the truck.

The 38-year-old entered the prime mover and drove it out of the property.

The owner of the property followed the man in his vehicle to an address in Mount Vernon, where the 38-year-old drove the stolen truck onto another rural property.

The 38-year-old got out and hid behind a car before police located and arrested him.

The man was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with ‘Take and drive conveyance without consent of driver’, ‘Drive motor vehicle during disqualification period’, and ‘Enter enclosed land without lawful excuse’.

He was bail refused and was to face Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, December 14.

Investigations are continuing into the two other stolen trailers located on the property.

Kingswood: Teenager charged after road rage incident

A teenager has been charged with assault after a road rage incident in Kingswood.

About 6.30pm on Friday, December 9, a 20-year-old man was driving a motor vehicle on First Street, Kingswood.

It’s alleged he attempted to drive around another vehicle and as he did this, the female driver made a rude gesture out of the window of her vehicle.

Upon seeing this, the 20-year-old allegedly made the same gesture back to the woman.

As a result, the woman pulled her vehicle over and the man drove past.

The woman then allegedly followed the

man to where he stopped in a driveway of Western Sydney University on Second Avenue.

As the man stopped, the passenger in the woman’s vehicle, a 17-year-old Werrington Downs youth exited the vehicle, and told the 20-year-old to get out of his vehicle.

The youth allegedly punched the man numerous times in the face whilst the man was still seated in his motor vehicle.

The youth ran back to the woman’s vehicle, before she drove off.

The 20-year-old contacted police, who started an investigation.

About 9.30pm on the same day, police allegedly attended an address in Werrington Downs and spoke with the 17-year-old youth and his mother.

The youth was arrested and charged with ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’.

Orchard Hills: Man to face court after refusing to undertake breath test

A man has been charged with a string of offences after being pulled over in Orchard Hills.

About 12.10am on Sunday, December 11, police were travelling westbound on the M4. It is alleged they saw a vehicle quickly approaching the rear of their vehicle and after it passed them, they activated their lights and pulled it over.

Officers asked the driver, a 39-year-old Jamisontown man for his licence and he allegedly asked what would occur if he did not produce it. The man was informed that he would be arrested and he allegedly attempted to get out of the vehicle while telling police to arrest him.

Police asked the man to submit to a breath test three times but he allegedly refused each time. The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was placed in the custody suite.

A short time later he was asked by police to enter the breath analysis room.

The man allegedly refused on three occasions and the officers had to forcibly remove him and take him to the chair.

Once in the room the man refused to sit in the chair and resisted all requests from police to undertake a breath analysis.

The man was returned to the custody suite where he was charged with ‘Exceed speed > 10km/h – Estimated’, ‘Refuse, or fail to submit to breath test’, ‘Hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty’ and ‘Refuse or fail to submit to breath analysis’.

ALCOHOL AND DRIVING DON’T MIX

Unfortunately at this time of year we always see a spike of enquiries about drink driving offences. Whether it is getting a little too merry at a work Christmas party or otherwise letting your hair down with a few drinks to round out the year, drink driving offences tend to increase around holiday periods, particularly Christmas.

There are three main types of drink driving offences. These are expressed as “PCA” offences and occur when a person driving a motor vehicle exceeds the legally allowed prescribed concentration of alcohol in their blood.

PCA offences are categorised with reference to a person’s blood alcohol content.

Any person caught driving with a blood alcohol content of between 0.05 and 0.079 is guilty of a low-range PCA offence. This results in a minimum licence disqualification of three months, and usually a fine. The minimum disqualification can be contested in Court, but an offender will need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances to avoid the disqualification. Exceptional circumstances usually means more than things like “I need my car to get to work” or “There is not much public transport where I live”.

A person with a blood alcohol content of between 0.08 and 0.15 is guilty of a

mid-range PCA offence. This offence attracts a minimum disqualification of six months and usually a fine. A mid-range PCA offence will also result in an offender being subject to an alcohol interlock order requiring that their vehicle be fitted with a device which measures their blood alcohol content prior to operating a motor vehicle. The interlock device is fixed to one vehicle only and the person who is subject to the alcohol interlock order is not permitted to drive a vehicle without an interlock device fitted.

A person found driving with a blood alcohol content above 0.15 is guilty of a high-range PCA offence. This carries a minimum disqualification period of 12 months, and usually a fine. Again, a person guilty of a high-range PCA offence will also be subjected to an alcohol interlock order.

PCA offences can also attract terms of imprisonment depending on the circumstances. Usually, for such an offence to result in imprisonment, an offender will have committed offences like these before and/ or there will be aggravating features such as a car accident on the injury or death of a passenger or other person on the road.

We urge everybody to take extra caution over the holiday season. Alcohol and driving are not happy bed fellows.

SHOCK TWIST IN CHERYL ARDLER CASE

A man has faced court after allegedly concealing information in relation to the suspicious death of a woman in Cranebrook a decade ago. Cheryl Ardler (pictured), aged 41, was last seen by neighbours on Greenhalgh Road in December 2012.

In 2018, human remains were located in bushland near Laycock Street, Cranebrook, which were later forensically confirmed to be Ms Ardler. A man was arrested and charged a year later. He has since been convicted of manslaughter.

This week, a 38-year-old man was arrested and charged with ‘improperly interfere with corpse or human remains’, and

‘conceal serious indictable offence of another person’. The Kingswood man was refused bail and faced court on Tuesday afternoon.

Complete Legal & Conveyancing

with Daniel McKinnon

purpose: Vaccination Clinic in Kingswood shuts doors

CASSIDY PEARCE

Since opening on March 15, 2021, Penrith Vaccination Clinic on Somerset Street, Kingswood has been a hub for anyone needing vaccinations for COVID, Monkey Pox or the flu. But, with vaccination rates high and demand slowing, the Clinic officially closed its doors on Friday, December 9.

With the need for the Clinic decreasing due to increased vaccination rates, its inevitable closure is a positive sign, said Jaimie Earl, Nurse Unit Manager for Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s Penrith Vaccination Hub.

“The majority of the general public... has been vaccinated,” she said.

Over the almost two years it has been open, the Clinic’s team has delivered 135,120 COVID, 123 Monkey Pox and over 250 flu vaccinations – over 135,500 vaccinations all up.

In Ms Earl’s eyes, this is a major success.

“There is no doubt in my mind that it fulfilled its purpose,” she said.

“We’ve vaccinated over 135,000 people, which is a crazy number – it’s huge!”

Ms Earl said she owes the success of the Clinic both to healthcare staff, who worked day in and day out to run it as smoothly as

possible, and to the community, who she thanks for coming out in strides to get the jab.

“It’s the community for turning up for vaccinations, and being patient with us in the rollout of the vaccinations. The community who waited for hours to be vaccinated,” she said.

“Then, the staff. From nursing, medical, admin – healthcare in its entirety really helped and pitched in to get the job done.”

In particular, Ms Earl wished to thank Kim

Maddock, the Nurse Manager for the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, for her support and guidance throughout.

“She’s the one who arranged the set-up, and has supported us all through the running of the vaccination hub,” she said.

“It was a huge job for her, and we are very grateful, because without her we wouldn’t have had the clinic at all.”

Though the Clinic’s closure will leave a hole for many who have relied on its accessibility

since its opening, Ms Earl has faith that things will revert to normal swiftly.

“I think initially, we will be missed, for the ease and convenience of coming to a central place for a vaccination, where we gave a variety of COVID vaccinations to a variety of age groups,” she said.

“But, people go to their GPs and their pharmacies for their regular vaccinations anyway, so it will be quickly accepted that that’s just the new way of life.”

Penrith Vaccination Clinic staff have farewelled the facility, which closed last Friday.

Residents of growing Glenmore Park can rejoice over having more local options with two new food and drink premises slated for Mulgoa Rise.

A Development Application (DA) that is currently on public exhibition by Penrith City Council seeks to add the offerings to the upcoming Glenmore Village that is under construction.

Located at 90-98 Glenmore Ridge Drive, Glenmore Park, the tenancies will sit on the north-eastern corner of the site bordered by Glenmore Ridge Drive and Glenholme Drive.

The Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) said the proposal will see a building constructed for café or restaurant dining and another for a fast-food restaurant with drive through and a seating area.

“The development seeks to provide two new food and drink premises, which will have a contemporary high quality architectural design, which will contribute to the locality,” it said.

“The end users for these tenancies are yet to be determined however

a food and beverage offering is considered the most appropriate use of this prominent corner of the site as compared to the prior concepts for the car wash on this corner that was removed from the parent DA for the site.”

They will have a total gross floor area of 272 square metres and a bold brown brick design is being proposed with black and off form

concrete finishes. If the proposal is approved, the site that will be used is part of a prior approved car park with 217 commercial car parking spaces.

“The addition of the restaurants will remove a total of 15 car parking spaces, resulting in a total of 202 commercial car parking spaces in the ground floor car parking area,” the SEE said.

“The basement car parking area including 146 commercial car parking spaces is unchanged as part of this proposed modification.”

No changes to the existing approved vehicular access arrangements are noted other than the creation of a circular ‘loop’ in association with the drive through component.

A signage pylon that is approxi-

mately 10 metres high will also be erected that identifies the Glenmore Village Local Centre and some key tenants.

The SEE states that a new landscape concept for the area is included with new range of plants and public domain works with paving treatments.

With ‘Food and Drink Premises’ permissible within the B2 Zone, the document says it will provide a range of benefits.

“The development seeks to utilise the land in accordance with the zoning and provide a valuable service within land earmarked as the primary commercial focal point within Glenmore Park Stage 2,” it said.

“The proposal will assist in providing commercial opportunities, which will directly promote pedestrian activity at the street level, whilst increasing employment opportunities within the locality both during the construction phase and through an increase of commercial space at the completion of the proposal.”

People can currently submit feedback regarding the DA to Council in writing.

Despite a pandemic and increased stressors to everyday life, the national birth rate has remained steady with a slight increase.

New 2021 birth figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that there were 309,996 registered births last year, an increase of 15,627 from 2020.

4,012 babies alone were born in Nepean Hospital in 2021, an increase of 4.8 per cent on the previous year.

Behind those figures are real people with real stories, along with the increased need for fertility treatments for some families being highlighted.

Penrith resident Kylie Cargill’s journey to motherhood has not been an easy one after struggling to fall pregnant naturally and turning to IVF at The Fertility Centre.

“I have done 10 IVF round over six years and had multiple miscarriages and an ectopic pregnancy but what kept me going was that I was getting one step closer each time,” Ms Cargill said.

“I froze three embryos when I was 43 and had my second embryo transfer during a COVID lockdown which was a stressful time wondering if we would be able to go ahead but with the procedures in place, we were able to.”

Experiencing pregnancy during an uncer-

tain period, it was all worth it when Ms Cargill and her husband Rhett welcomed their little boy Brodie when she was 46-years-old.

In some ways, the pandemic eased the pressures of her pregnancy.

“It’s not that we liked the COVID period, but it was a blessing being able to work from home in the comfort compared to being out on the road and on my feet which I usually am with my job,” she said.

“If I didn’t have such a loving, supportive husband and family as well as absolutely amazing doctors and nurses it would have been difficult but my advice for people is to stay strong because it is possible to have a baby if you are struggling.”

Clinical Director at The Fertility Centre, Doctor Peter Leung said the figures are promising as one in six couples have problems trying to conceive.

“It’s great to see the new figures which show a slight increase in births last year,” Dr Leung said.

“Struggling with infertility is immensely tough for women and couples, and many had to cope with the added anxiety of going through IVF during a pandemic.

“IVF doesn’t improve egg quality, but it can help by selecting the best quality egg to be used in each IVF cycle – helping increase the chance of a pregnancy.”

Got a birth to announce? Email announcements@westernweekender.com.au.

Penrith mum Kylie Cargill with her miracle baby Brodie. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Story dreams are made of

Local author’s first book, more than a decade in the making, launches this week

CASSIDY PEARCE

After years of going back and forth with the project, Penrith author Anne Maree Durnan has published her very first book, Cloud Kingdoms, and it’s officially launching locally this weekend.

Ms Durnan came up with the idea for Cloud Kingdoms over 10 years ago, inspired by a number of different aspects of her life.

“My son and I used to play games with bubble bath in the bathtub and with clouds laying on the trampoline, and we would find shapes and make up stories, so that’s where the idea first started,” she said.

“But, it also developed from my fascination with the clouds and with constellations, which came from my mum who was a science teacher.”

Initially, she set pen to paper in 2009, with the intention of writing Cloud Kingdoms as a screenplay. But, after putting it down and picking it back up in 2013, then again in 2021, Ms Durnan found herself with the perfect opportunity to instead turn it into a children’s book.

After so many years spent working on the project, she said she couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.

“I’m thrilled. I’m really pleased that I’ve been able to do it,” she said.

The book, an adventure-packed novel aimed at children aged seven to 11, follows cousins James, Billy and Ruby as they’re teleported

New entertainment venues to open in Westfield Penrith today

Penrith will welcome Holey Moley and Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq to Westfield Penrith from today.

The ‘kidult’ venues feature two bars, arcade games galore, six bowling lanes, and 18 holes of golf, just in time for summer.

Funlab CEO Michael Schreiber said following the success of multiple inner Sydney locations, the Westfield Penrith venues will be Funlab’s first in western Sydney.

“We are overjoyed to launch this new precinct and introduce western Sydney locals to an unparalleled entertainment experience,” he said.

“The arrival will showcase the opening of both Holey Moley and Archie Brothers, in Penrith’s iconic Riley Street, amplifying the destination hub with further food, beverage, and experience options, in one of western Sydney’s most popular shopping centres.”

Holey Moley and Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq will provide entertainment, dining, and beverage options for everyone to enjoy. Signature cocktails including the Sugar Caddy and Rub a Dub Tub will be available, and when it comes to the snacks, all ingredients are sustainably sourced from local Australian producers. The

onto the clouds. Though the story is fun and entertaining, Ms Durnan’s favourite part is the lessons she’s been able to intertwine throughout, which she hopes will see children learn about topics such as bullying, friendship, and caring for the environment.

“It’s really important to me that people are aware that there’s more to it than just being a funny adventure,” she said.

“There’s been a shift in the way that young boys, for example, are allowed to express themselves, so I’m just hoping to play a part in people shifting to be more comfortable in their own skin.”

The book will be officially launching at an event at Aqua Golf this Saturday, December 17 from 10.30am to 12.30pm, complete with copies of the book available for sale, and a sausage sizzle.

“It’s not a picture book, so I can’t just sit there and read it, and the library’s not the type of environment that would be suitable for this, so I wanted to do it somewhere lighthearted and fun,” she said.

“I’m so excited to get the book into people’s hands!”

Now that it’s finally out, Ms Durnan’s big goals are still alive.

“I’ve always seen it as a movie, when it came to me it was just clear as day, so that’s still what I want to do,” she said.

For more information about the book and its launch, keep an eye on the Cloud Kingdoms Facebook page, facebook.com/mycloudkingdoms.

Anne Maree Durnan with copies of her new book. Photo: Melinda Jane.

new Holey Moley at Westfield Penrith.

CASSIDY PEARCE

For many, it’s not purchasing gifts that provides the most grief at Christmas –it’s wrapping them. Luckily, volunteers from Our Community Cares are here to help.

Each year, Our Community Cares sets up stalls in both Westfield Penrith and Nepean Village for people to bring gifts along to be wrapped up for a gold coin donation. Now that they've officially begun for 2022, volunteer Kim Hicks said they couldn’t wait for everyone to pay them a visit.

“Our days go so much faster if people come down and get their gifts wrapped!” she said.

“The donation bucket is always ready to accept more cash.”

This year, the local charity is aiming to raise $50,000 to buy laser equipment for Nepean Hospital through the initiative, allowing premature babies with retinal issues to stay close to home and have the necessary operations onsite.

Ms Hicks said that after explaining their goals to visitors, the minimum amount is often out of the question.

“People are being incredibly generous – they start off making a gold coin donation, and then when we say that we’re raising money for the babies, they’re putting in extra or EFTPOS-ing extra,” she said.

“We’re incredibly grateful and encouraged by people’s support.”

By getting gifts wrapped by Our Community Cares’ elves, you’re not only supporting a charitable organisation, but also guaranteeing beautifully wrapped presents under the tree.

“People say that they’re bad wrappers and that we do such a great job,” she said.

“They also say they can’t make their gifts look as good as ours; they love the paper, because we have beautiful double-sided wrapping paper that gives them a lot of choices!”

Ms Hicks notes it can also be a real timesaver during what is an extremely busy period for many.

“People bring a trolley in in the morning, drop it off, and pick it up in the afternoon when they’re going home, and all they have to do is put it under the tree,” she said.

And, there’s no limit to what they can do.

“We’ll pretty much do anything and everything,” she said.

“One of the big things that we did last year was wrap a 1m tall plush dinosaur, and that was a bit of a challenge – definitely a two-person job – but we pretty much give everything our best shot!”

With the team set to finish off the festive season without their fearless

leader, Kris Gauci, to whom they send their love and best wishes, Ms Hicks is putting a call out to expert gift wrappers who could provide an extra set of hands.

“We’ve lost a couple of volunteers in the last week due to health and

teers,” she said.

“You only have to work four-hour shifts –morning, afternoon or night. Any help would be much appreciated!”

Our Community Cares will be wrapping gifts at Westfield and Nepean Village every day until

Our Community Cares volunteers outside of Mimco at Westfield Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The gift of shopping locally

For some, buying Christmas presents is no easy feat. By this point, panic has likely set in – what do you buy for someone who has everything, or someone who says they want nothing at all?

Luckily, there are a host of last-minute gift options right on our doorstep.

For the adventurer

If you’ve got a red balloon voucher or two sitting at home, unused, you’re definitely not alone. For a friend or family member who loves to live life to the fullest, shopping local guarantees that your gift makes it out of the drawer.

If they don’t mind going for a dip, consider sending them on a jetpack adventure at the Regatta Centre, or get them a pass to make a splash at Cables Wake Park & Aqua Park.

For someone who might prefer to be up in the air, you can’t go past an indoor skydiving package at iFly.

If they love to be pampered

There’s no shame in being high maintenance – just make sure you gift the friend or family member who loves to look and feel amazing the best of the best.

If pretty in pink is their vibe, you can’t go past Bombshell Blow Dry Bar’s Christmas Packages, ranging from $59 for a facial and signature cocktail, to $500 for the works.

For the men, a gift card for Gabriel Barbers

will go down a treat. Or, if it’s skin treatments they love most, book your loved one a luxury experience or buy them a product from the brand new, high-end medi-spa, Melissa Peters Beauty.

For foodies

It’s no surprise that Penrith is a hub for foodies, with no shortage of options for any

craving, or budget. For those who love to eat, you can’t go wrong with restaurant vouchers – consider going with one of their favourite spots, or encourage them to try something new.

If they love to be entertained Who doesn’t love a good show? If your loved one is a fan of live music, theatre, comedy or

dance, there are plenty of options right on your doorstep for incredible shows – and with big names like Don McLean, Toni Childs and Richard Marx already locked in for 2023, you can’t go wrong.

For more information on what’s on, head to the entertainment pages of The Joan or Panthers, and if they don’t mind a drive, Sydney Coliseum Theatre is just a short trip from home.

Happy hour lovers

By this point, Penrith may as well claim the title of the brewery capital of Australia. For those who love a good craft beer, and wouldn’t say no to a cheeky happy hour at home, you can purchase a slab from Mountain Culture Beer Co, Squinters Brewing Co or Rusty Penny Brewery.

If a good drink out with friends is more their scene, fund their night out with a

Still searching for that perfect Christmas present? Here’s some brilliant ideas...

Grab some beer from Mountain Culture Beer Co. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Christmas at Bombshell Blow Dry Bar. Get a Gabriel Barbers gift certificate. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Cables Wake Park is perfect for the adventure lovers.

CASSIDY PEARCE

State Government to chip in close to $800,000 for flood management projects Funds to tackle flooding

EMILY FESZCZUK

Penrith City Council has accepted nearly $800,000 worth of funding from the NSW Government to better prepare to manage future floods, but the projects may have a lengthy wait time.

As flooding continues to be an issue in the region, the grant will be used to undertake two detailed local overland flood studies and to prepare detailed designs of two potential flood mitigation projects.

A report in the latest Council business paper notes that the NSW Government’s Flood Prone Land Policy states that the management of flood prone land is primarily the responsibility of Councils.

“The State Government also provides financial assistance and technical support to local Councils for managing their floodplains,” it said.

“Floodplain Risk Management Studies and Plans for various catchment areas within the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) will be required to effectively manage Council’s floodplains.”

The report stated that Council has completed 10 flood studies covering almost the entire urban areas located within the Local Government Area – including flood studies for South Creek and Nepean River – over the past eight years.

In addition, five floodplain risk management plans have been completed and adopted. The potential flood mitigation measures recommended in these management plans

are now listed for consideration, and Council applies for future grant funds for the investigation, design and implementation of them on a priority basis.

In February 2022, Council submitted four applications for funding under the 2022/23 NSW Floodplain Management Program.

According to the report, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment that manages the grant funding recently advised that it has been approved for $792,666 of funding.

The projects include a flood study for the upper Byrnes Creek catchment and Blackwell Creek catchment.

An investigation and detailed design will also be undertaken for the Chapman Gardens basic augmentation in Kingswood and potential flood mitigation for the Byrnes Creek catchment in St Marys with a detention basin and drainage.

With the Councillors voting to accept the offer at Monday’s Ordinary Meeting, the agreement must be signed and returned before January 20, 2023, with the condition that the projects are completed by 2025.

A cost breakdown showed that Council would have to contribute $393,334 to meet the estimated cost of $1,189,00 for the projects, which would be funded from the Stormwater Management Service Charge.

The report concluded with: “These four projects continue to deliver upon Council’s Floodplain Management Program and works towards ensuring we provide sound floodplain management across our various catchments.”

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Blessing in disguise for MP?

Labor wanted Stuart Ayres dumped from Cabinet but I have a feeling it could end up backfiring on Chris Minns. Ayres appears to be putting all of his energy back into Penrith, already on the ground at various train stations – while his social media is full of business and community visits. One wonders if in the end, it’ll all be a blessing in disguise for Stuart Ayres and the Liberal Party. They have a big fight on their hands to retain the seat of Penrith, but one thing is for sure – nobody has as much energy as Mr Ayres at present. Where has the Labor candidate been? I am very intrigued to see how this all plays out.

STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

Ice rink no more

What sort of Winter Sports World is it without an ice rink? (Ice rink axed from plans, Weekender December 9). What is the point of building that ugly thing if it doesn’t serve its complete purpose?

SYLVIA JONES, VIA FACEBOOK

Silenced over rink plan

Dumping the ice rink is probably the worst thing that could have been done. Over 500 winter sports athletes displaced over this that were holding out for this rink after Ice Palace closed down. Actually seen a lot of those skaters started selling off their equipment over this. To top this off, anyone who expressed their views on the ice rink being removed were met with being blocked and their comments all removed from their

social media making us all feel like we were pretty much being told to shut up.

DYLAN BROWN, VIA FACEBOOK

Concerned over new plans

No ice rink means the entire project should be overruled and dumped by government, Council or State I don’t care. The ice rink was the biggest selling point for getting the public onside for this development. To shelve it now is playing us all for chumps.

BRYAN GILFEDDER, VIA FACEBOOK

Location not ideal

Firstly Penrith needs a modern ice rink that is accessible. Second why is this being built right next to Nepean shores? That area is congested enough already. A better place would have been near The Lakes and include a practice ski jump for aerials.

CATHERINE MICALLEF, VIA FACEBOOK

Go vegan for Christmas

Around eight million cattle are slaughtered in Australia each year, after a short, wretched life during which they were burned with hot irons (branded), their horns cut or burned off, and males’ testicles ripped out of their scrotums – all without pain relief. Here’s the best Christmas present for those that you love – give them a future, with liveable temperatures, clean air and water and cruelty-free food. Go vegan, for the season of peace on Earth.

DESMOND BELLAMY, VIA EMAIL

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

Council has received funding to undertake flood studies. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Vouchers to help ease pressure Making festive season sweeter

EMILY FESZCZUK

Penrith parents can claim a $500 voucher from the State Government for Before and After School Care (BASC), which can be used for vacation care over the school holidays.

Under the Government’s $155 million BASC Voucher Program, families with children aged four to 13-years that attend a primary school in NSW can receive a $500 voucher per child to reduce the out-of-pocket costs for care.

The vouchers are also available for children starting Kindergarten in 2023.

Members for Penrith and Mulgoa, Stuart Ayres and Tanya Davies, welcomed the assistance with household budget pressures and encouraged locals to make use of it over the coming months.

“I encourage families who have not already downloaded and redeemed a BASC voucher

before the summer holidays to do so, this will help cover the cost of vacation care,” Mr Ayres said.

“These vouchers aim to alleviate some of the financial pressures that we know occur after the summer break and the start of school.”

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said parents, guardians and carers can apply online via the Service NSW app or at a service centre.

“Every family with a child going into Kindergarten in 2023 can now download their voucher until January, 31, 2023 if they have not yet done so,” Ms Mitchell said.

“These vouchers support students in getting quality before and after school care, but also allows parents to have more money back in their household budgets.”

Participating providers can hold the voucher credit to use until June 30, 2023.

Visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/bascvoucher.

CASSIDY PEARCE

After being forced to take the past two years off due to COVID, Mrs C’s CupCakes is renewing their tradition of donating gifts to some of Penrith’s most vulnerable, and they’re calling out to the local community for donations.

It’s no secret that for many, Christmas is the most difficult time of year, riddled with financial and emotional battles. But, owner of Mrs C’s CupCakes, Brittany Caines, noted that it’s the elderly who often have it the hardest.

“We try to do as many fundraisers throughout the year as we can, like the RSPCA Pet Day, and breast cancer, but Christmas is always good – especially for the elderly, because people usually give back to children,” she said.

“One day, I reached out to one of the supervisors at the hospital, and she said that the department that’s really missing is the elderly people, because they don’t really get much, and they miss out on seeing their families. She enticed us to do it, and ever since then, it’s been such a good thing.”

Earlier this month, a Christmas tree was put up in Ms Caines’ Castlereagh Street store, encouraging customers to bring gifts along to place under it, to be collected and donated to elderly people at Nepean Hospital who will be spending Christmas Day alone.

With the hospital not accepting gifts over the past two years, Ms Caines couldn’t be more excited to finally bring the initiative

back, and give her customers the opportunity to contribute.

“It’s just something we like to do, and it gives our customers an easier way to also reach out without having to go in there,” she said.

“Everyone wants to donate and help, but they don’t know how to do it, so something easy is just wrapping a gift and sticking it under our tree, and then it gets handed out for them – it’s an easy way to do it.”

Whilst there’s no limit to what you can donate, Ms Caines notes that the hospital has requested age-appropriate gifts which could be enjoyed by a variety of different types of people.

“Things like teacups with tea, nice tea towels, or even nice hand creams or a box of shortbread biscuits would be nice,” she said.

“Just stuff that they can enjoy on the day themselves.”

As part of the initiative, Ms Caines is giving a cupcake to each person who brings in a gift.

“It’s just our way of saying thank you to our lovely customers for doing it, and for coming back and doing it,” she said.

“It’s a lot of regulars who are the ones who continue to do it every year, and also a lot of kids, who feel really special that they’ve done that, and get a little treat out of it as well.”

Having received 70 gifts the last year they took donations, and with upwards of 30 under the tree already, Ms Caines expects another giving holiday season from the community.

Mrs C’s CupCakes will be accepting gifts until Wednesday, December 21.

Nadia Broom and Talisha Masini with gifts at Mrs C’s. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres visits a local before and after school care service.

Showground to host spectacular night of Carols this Saturday

EMILY FESZCZUK

The community is encouraged to bring their singing voices and Christmas cheer as carols return to Penrith for the first time since 2019.

Carols by Candlelight will be on at Penrith Showground this Saturday, December 17 from 5pm to 9pm.

The popular event had to be cancelled in 2020 amid COVID-19 restrictions before being transferred to a virtual event.

It did not take place in 2021 but after another trying year plagued by the pandemic and floods, Penrith Paceway CEO Tash Greentree said she wanted to ensure that the tradition that has spread joy to thousands of people in the past could continue.

“Jim Aitken and the regular organisers were unable to coordinate the event this year, but we wanted to make sure that the legacy they created continued,” Ms Greentree said.

“Now more than ever people are eager to get together and feel that community spirit, so we are thrilled to be able to run it this year.”

With all the Christmas classics you know and love, the night is set to be a fun one for people of all ages.

“We will have a range of varied performances from local dancers including LKM Performing Arts Springwood, tiny tots from

Kids Academy Regentville and Penrith, as well as singers coordinated by local performer Paige Peters,” she said.

“We will also have food trucks with delicious options and rides, plus All Occasions Pyrotechnics tell me they have a fantastic fireworks display planned which should be better than the one they did at Penrith Show.”

As with previous events, the community will come together to celebrate the holiday season but also to support those less fortunate.

“Our area has experienced the extreme weather, but others are really doing it tough, so we are supporting the flood relief efforts in Eugowra by requesting a gold coin donation on entry,” she said.

“We will also have candles available to purchase and we welcome it if people want to donate more to help out.”

The Paceway site has been a topic of discussion as it awaits the State Government’s decision in relation to acquiring the Penrith Showground to construct a new stadium.

With the future still uncertain, Ms Greentree said it was vital that the carols took place this year and she invites everyone to come along.

“I wouldn’t have attempted to plan anything like this in the short timeframe I have been given but under the proposed acquisition I wanted to ensure that it can continue as it potentially represents the last community event at the showground,” she said.

Penrith Paceway staff are preparing to host Carols by Candlelight on Saturday night.

STAYING SWIM SAFE

while enjoying the water,” Mr Shirvington said.

Royal

Royal Life Saving Society (RLS) NSW has reported that in the 10 years to 2022, Greater Western Sydney recorded the most drowning fatalities in NSW, “indicating a clear gap in knowledge, experience and opportunity across the state”.

The news that our region has suffered the most fatalities can be found in the background statistics supporting RLS NSW’s Summer Safety Campaign, lunched this week with Olympic Champion Matt Shirving ton as Summer Safety Campaign Ambassador.

As aquatic centres, community pools, riverside beaches and waterways across the state prepare for the summer

“There are four simple tips to keeping each other safe. Know your limits and avoid taking risks; Check the conditions before you head out; Wear a lifejacket when on the water; Supervise children at all times.”

from 2021/22 and a 67 per cent increase on the 10-year average – a strong reminder to anyone planning their summer holidays,” he said.

Summer Safety Campaign:

RLS NSW CEO, Michael Ilinsky, said while ACT was the only region to record a decrease in drownings, the recent 2022 Drowning Report

95 per cent of drowning fatalities in NSW were adults (82 per cent of which were males), and the highest number of drowning fatalities were recorded in Greater Western Sydney.

As we head into the silly season, let’s all look after each other in and around the water – watch your

There are many things we can be proud of in western Sydney, but this statistic is definitely not one of them.

For further information please visit www.drowningprevention.org.au.

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medicines safely when

warms up

With summer now upon us, it is important that we know how to keep our medicines safe and effective in the warmer temperatures.

All medicines carry an instruction on the label advising that they must be stored below a certain temperature. This is because some medicines lose their effectiveness when stored above a certain temperature.

Some even may change form and become difficult to use. For instance, gelatine capsules may soften, ointments and creams may become runny, and suppositories may melt.

If you are in an area of regular and prolonged high temperatures your medicines should be stored in the coolest, safest place available.

Storing medicines safely is particularly important if you are travelling over the summer months. Do not leave medicines in cars. Even in the boot, glovebox or console the temperature in a car can exceed 50°C in summer which can affect the active ingredient contained in medicines.

A slight reduction in the efficiency of pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol may not present a major problem.

However, for patients taking medicines for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, epilepsy or anti-coagulant therapy,

taking damaged medicine may mean that management of the condition is reduced. This may lead to harmful consequences so proper storage in a cool place is essential. Blister or foil-packed products are more likely to maintain their integrity than tablets or capsules packed loosely in a bottle if they are stored in below-optimum conditions for a short time.

It is advisable to check with your pharmacist about storing your medicine in the fridge as most medicines should not be stored at these temperatures.

If a medicine label says it should be stored in the fridge, it means the main compartment, not the freezer. If your medicines accidentally freeze, they are almost certainly unstable and therefore should not be used. Once again, check with your pharmacist.

Most bathrooms have a “medicine cabinet” and so the natural tendency is to store medi cines in the bathroom, but this is actually one of the worst places to keep them.

Medicines should be stored in a cool, dry place and not a bathroom where the heat and important to try to store

medicines away from heat, moisture and sunlight. Most medicines should be stored below 25°C and they should never be left in warm places such as in front of a window where

tions, and talk to your pharmacist if you have any questions about storing your medicines

Δ Hampers will help: The Kingswood High School community has donated non-perishable items, as well as kids water play items to make up Christmas hampers for The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter (pictured above). A not-for-profit organisation that provides crisis emergency accommodation for women and children escaping domestic violence, the hampers will help make the lives of eight families a little easier at a time of need.

Δ Cheque donation: The Lions Pride Holden Car Club, which loves cars and charity, presented another $5000 cheque to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia on Sunday at Hog’s Breath Café St Marys (pictured right). The local club also donated $2000 to the Animal Welfare League Hawkes-

Δ

Δ Cheers to that! Some of the Weekender team headed to Mountain Culture Beer Co. in Emu Plains on Friday afternoon to check out the stunning new brewery (pictured below). If you haven’t been yet, make sure you get along during the summer!

Δ

Δ Gigs called off: Penrith’s High Street Social has cancelled all planned live music gigs for the rest of the year as it battles challenges around its licence and noise complaints. The venue, which opened in 2017, has faced challenges over the years and has recently undergone a change of management. The High Street bar has been running live gigs, featuring mainly heavy metal bands, in ‘The Sound Garden’ at the back of the premises.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Additional waste services

Penrith City Council is providing additional waste and resource recovery services this Christmas and New Year period to help you with any extra waste or recycling you may have over the festive season.

The additional services include two weeks of extra bin collections, two weeks of additional recycling drop-off and a real Christmas tree drop-off collection day.

Two weeks of extra bin collections will start from Monday, December 26 and continue until Friday, January 6 2023 –including public holidays. During this time, you can place all three bins at the kerbside for collection each week.

Place your bins kerbside the night before your normal collection day and leave them until they are emptied.

The waste collection drivers will be starting early and working late into the evening to help accommodate the extra services.

Recycling drop-off days are also available for residents to conveniently dispose of excess household recyclables that may not fit in their yellow-lidded bin.

Drop-off days will be held at Jamison Park from 3pm until 6pm on weekdays from Monday, December 19, through to Friday, December 30 2022, excluding weekends and public holidays.

We are also collecting excess house-

hold recyclables, including paper and cardboard boxes with staples and tape removed, glass bottles and jars, milk and juice cartons, plastic bottles and containers, and steel and aluminium cans.

Non-recyclable items such as polystyrene will not be accepted; however, clean, white polystyrene can be dropped off at Penrith’s Community Recycling Centre for free. For more information, visit penrith. city/CRC.

And don’t forget the real Christmas tree drop-off on Saturday, January 7, it is being held at Jamison Park from 10am until 2pm where real trees will be collected for mulching. Artificial trees and decorations will not be accepted on the day, we recommend residents who want to dispose of old and unwanted artificial trees book a bulky waste collection or break the tree down and place it into their red-lidded residual bin. To book a bulky waste collection, visit penrith.city/ thewastespot.

For more information about the additional Christmas waste and recycling services, head online and visit penrith.city/ christmaswaste.

See you next week!

CR TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor of Penrith

bury Nepean branch, $2000 to Nepean Therapy Dogs and $2000 to the Riding for the Disabled Association.

New cafe coming: Mulgoa residents rejoice! The team behind The Bunker in the Blue Mountains is opening a new venue in Mulgoa in early 2023. Details around the location and job opportunities will be announced in the next few weeks.

Italian delight: The Weekender was invited to attend the inaugural WEST Supper Club event at Gellafrenda in Penrith. In partnership with The WEST Journal, it aims to shine a spotlight on the high-quality culinary offering available in the west. Doing Penrith proud, Gellafrenda served up a delightful

menu of elevated Italian cuisine, a premium wine selection and plenty of laughs during the evening (pictured below).

New trees become permanent tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Schools around Penrith have commemorated the passing of Queen Elizabeth II with ceremonies funded as part of the Australian Government’s Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program.

The grant program was created with the intention of marking the Jubilee – 70 years of service – of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, in 2022, allowing communities to celebrate the occasion, and create a legacy of tree plantings across the nation for Australians to enjoy.

Though grant applications opened prior to the Queen’s passing, the ceremonies have become memorials, allowing school students and members of the local community to pay their respects.

A tree planting ceremony was held at Montgrove College on Monday, December 5, which saw the school’s staff and students come out in strides, in the company of Londonderry MP Prue Car, Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, and a representative of Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh.

With their grant being received prior to the Queen’s passing, Principal Lourdes Mejia said that the ceremony was made even more momentous.

“It was a very special occasion, with a number of special guests in attendance,” she said.

“It had a special tone, because we received the grant before the Queen passed away, and this happened afterwards, so it was almost double the celebration, or a commemoration, of what she’s done in her life.”

Prior to the planting of 25 new trees on Montgrove’s school grounds, the Montgrove primary choir performed ‘Sing’, a song that was commissioned for Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

Another ceremony was held at Penola Catholic College the following day, at which Ms McIntosh, who put forward the project, was in attendance. The event was a great success, allowing for the school’s community to benefit in a number of ways, said Principal Jim Fanning.

“From being involved in this project our community has gained an increased community awareness and celebration of Her Majesty's Jubilee, and created a legacy of tree plantings that increases and enhances the area of tree canopy at Penola,” he said.

Mr Fanning also noted that the ceremony was just as much about creating connections with the land and its traditional owners.

“During the ceremony we emphasised that Australia is sacred

land, and we acknowledged the traditional owners of this land, the Dharug, Gandangara and Wiradjuri people, who have walked upon and cared for this land for thousands of years,” Mr Fanning said.

“The planting of the olive trees planted at Penola was one way for our community to acknowledge the traditional owners' care of the land and everyone's connection to Country.”

The trees will serve as permanent tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.

Licensed Electrician

Fire Services Technician

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Fire

The tree planting at Montgrove College. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh with Penola students.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Kingswood Post Office began as a receiving office for mail at the railway station.

In 1894 it was relocated to Mr Apps’ store located on the south eastern corner of the Great Western Highway and Bringelly Road.

It closed in 1963 when the post office moved to a temporary shop in the shopping centre.

The pictured post office was opened in 1965 with Mrs M Longmore as Postmistress. It was located on the Great Western Highway. Other shops of this era include Kingswood Sewing Centre, which was located next door.

A new post office was opened on the corner of Bringelly Road and Orth Street in October 1990. This remains the site of Kingswood Post Office today.

Rotary says "Thank You"

to the many sponsors, helpers, and performers involved with the 2022 Smithfield RSL “Carols at Horsley Park”

Over 50 volunteers from the Rotary Club of Wetherill Park, their friends and families, local residents, as well as volunteers from Anowah Community Living, Fairfield Hospital, Horsley Park RFS and the SES combined with over 50 performers to present the 26th Carols at Horsley Park in partnership with Smithfield RSL The always-entertaining free event culminated with a dazzling display from Foti Fireworks (sponsored by Global Renewables) and raised a net of over $20,000 (final amount yet to be confirmed) for distribution.

Major beneficiaries of the event were: Anowah Community Living Fairfield Hospital – Women’s & Children’s Health the Horsley Park Brigade of the Rural Fire Service Projects of the Rotary Club of Wetherill Park

Also receiving donations were: St John Ambulance, Marion Primary School, Our Lady of Victories Church, Horsley Park Primary School, Kemps Creek Public School St Narsai Assyrian Christian College

Many thanks to our performers: The Eastern Charms (Koren, Emlyn & Kate), Melanie Driver, “QuickStix” classic rock band, Makayla Mizzi, Marika Zorlu, Chloe Piscopo, The Chilean Tradition dancers, Kemps Creek Public School, Marion Primary School, and our hard-working Musical Director Koren Beale

Volunteer P.A. Operator Kieran Vella and his assistant Josh Mardel worked their magic once again ensuring the P.A. and the performances ran smoothly all night. Thanks to Tom Murphy from Starr Partners (who made sure Santa was there!) And many thanks also to our new honorary Masters of Ceremonies Tony Cocks & Dwayne Cocks, who MC’d for us for the first time, doing a fantastic job like Carols veterans $13,000

Tickets: 1st 2192, 2nd 1361, 3rd 3445, 4th 1508, 5th 1715, 6th 3063, 7th 1949, 8th 3166, 9th 1245, 10th 3481, 11th 2059, 12th 2409, 13th 1432, 14th 2165, 15th

Sanctuary

St

Starr

Sydney

Taronga

Trim

VegMasters

Wallacia

Watson

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

BUSINESS

WITH NATHAN TODD WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

Well, it’s that time of year (already), the Christmas period can be both a rewarding time for small businesses and a stressful one. So, as you start to pack up your last orders and close your doors for another year, it’s time to reflect on 2022 and analyse how well your business performed. What improvements/

adjustments do you need to make for 2023? But more importantly, it’s time to celebrate another year having run a successful small business.

It’s time to take a break and unwind, this will help with the longevity of your business, reduce the stress of the year, and help kick start 2023. Once you have had your break and are ready to return, make sure you have a plan for the year and set out your goals. Where do you want to be at the conclusion of the year? How many clients? How much turnover? It’s important to set these goals, and plan for how you are going to achieve them.

You must take the time to create a social media strategy for your business, conduct a business health-check, and expand on your knowledge by attending our free webinars. We also have many advisors that would be more than happy to meet with you regularly to continue your businesses growth.

There have been many challenges throughout the last few years, but as a business owner, you can hold your head high as we close the doors on 2022. We have seen many great businesses come through our Centre this year, and it was great to be able to assist them on their small business journey. So, from both myself and the staff at the Western Sydney Business Centre, we thank the community for having trust in us, and we look forward to helping many more next year!

It’s time to reflect on the year that was, and start setting goals for a big 2023

Returning for their first festive season in over 10 years, The Log Cabin confirms that they’ll be sticking to their roots when it comes to Christmas and New Year’s, with traditional events and offerings for everyone to enjoy.

Since reopening in April this year, COO Justin Tynan said he couldn’t be happier with the outstanding reception he and the new Log Cabin have received from the local community.

“It’s been a part of the landscape for so long, and then being shut down for 10 odd years, everyone came back in with a story of the old Log Cabin, and they hoped it would be the same,” he said.

“It’s brilliant being a part of the community again. It’s something that they really wanted to have back, so it’s a nice feeling.”

Now that they’re well and truly up and running, Mr Tynan couldn’t be more excited to bring back some of the Log Cabin’s traditional Christmas and New Year’s festivities, with a focus on fun, sport and the community to cultivate a true family affair.

“It’s about time!” he said.

“It’s nice to see people coming back in the doors, and putting on some of the things that they used to do back in the day will bring a really good sense of community.”

This year, the Log Cabin will be kicking the festive season off on Christmas Eve, with a Christmas-themed share menu for lunch and dinner at Sinclair’s, to the soundtrack of a live

acoustic duo.

“Traditionally, Christmas Eve at the Log Cabin was a very local affair, so we’re aiming to get those people back, and just enjoy a really local Christmas Eve night,” he said.

Though they’ll be closed on December 25, the Log Cabin is backing it up on Boxing Day.

“We’ll be showing the cricket test live out

in the courtyard, in partnership with 4 Pines Brewery,” he said.

“We’ll also have a DJ from 9pm to 2am.” The festivities will then be turned up a notch heading into 2023.

On New Year’s Eve, the Log Cabin will have a local DJ starting from 6pm, and an exclusive New Year’s Eve celebration at Sinclair’s with

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THE FOODARY WERRINGTON NEWSAGENCY

With daring acrobats and skilled musicians galore, ‘Afrique en Cirque’ is a celebration of diversity and dizzying fun wrapped up in one extraordinary show, and it’s coming to Riverside Theatre in Parramatta next month.

The show was created by Yamoussa Bangoura, who, after years of performing in some of the finest circus companies in the world, had big dreams of showcasing “how African people do circus”.

“I was touring for several big circuses combined, and I always felt like there was something missing in me,” he said.

“I wanted to create something with African flavour – like African music, African life – and so I created ‘Afrique en Cirque’.”

With the vast majority of the show’s artists being African, ‘Afrique en Cirque’ represents a smorgasbord of African culture. The show prides itself not only on its authenticity, but also on its entertainment value, providing audiences with a fusion of dance, music, singing and acrobatics.

“We have African costumes, African music – we have the Kora in the show, which is a really old instrument from West Africa,” he said.

“It’s all about people seeing how we do

contortion back home in Africa, and how we tumble with percussion and with the dunun – a big instrument which is the heart of African music.”

Though the company is based in Montreal, with Yamoussa the artistic director of Kalabanté Productions, his primary aim is to develop young African circus talent and share it with the world.

Now in its fifth year, ‘Afrique en Circque’ has toured the globe, from Budapest to Canada. Now, they’re headed on their first trip down under for Sydney Festival, and Yamoussa couldn’t be more excited.

“This is our first time coming to Australia, which is really great,” he said.

“It’s kind of a dream going that far. We weren’t expecting to travel to Australia this year, less than a year after things opened back up. It’s crazy, and we can’t wait to be there.”

Yamoussa said that audience members will be enveloped in African culture, making you feel like you’re there.

“People are going to see a crazy African show, which will make them feel like they’re travelling to Africa,” he said.

“I would love to meet all kinds of people from there. They won’t regret seeing our show – they will be in love with Africa.”

‘Afrique en Cirque’ will be on at Riverside Theatre from Friday, January 6 to Sunday, January 15. Tickets start at $35 concession and $39 full price. For more information or to book, visit riversideparramatta.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

Kids can dance the night away

On Monday, December 19, bring the kids down to St Marys Leagues Club for Santa’s Christmas Dance Party (for cool kids). For just $15 per child or $3 per adult, you’re guaranteed two hours of fun with loud music, dancing and prizes to be won. Doors open at 5.45pm for a 6pm start. For more information, visit stmarysleagues.com.au.

Help search for The Missing Elf

Head to the EVAN Theatre next Friday, December 23 for a magical Christmas story that will have your child laughing, singing and dancing on their feet as Jacob and Emily Fletcher search for their very own missing elf. ‘The Missing Elf’ is the perfect way to kickstart the Christmas festivities with a morning of family fun. For more information, head to penrith.panthers.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.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Penrith Rotary Club

Mondays 6.30pm. 0416 157 668.

New members welcome. The Rotary Club generally meets at Penrith Bowling Club.

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.

Cambridge Park Lions Club

Second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Henry Sports Club. Call 0484 003 571 for details.

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 second Tuesday of each month from 9am-2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

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

JP Service

Victor Glanville – 0416 157 668.

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. A great place to discover the local history of Penrith

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.

Relationships Australia Counselling for individuals, couples and families. Domestic violence support group also available. 4728 4800. 340 High Street, Penrith.

Crisis Sexual Assault Service 24/7 support available for any sexual assault that has occurred in the last seven days. 4734 2000.

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

Bring your singing voices along to Penrith Showground for the return of Carols By Candlelight, on Saturday, December 17 from 5pm. Complete with food trucks, rides, fireworks and candles available for purchase, there’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit. Entry to the event is by gold coin donation, in support of Eugowra Flood Appeal.

Carols back at the Showground

The Joan’s final monthly stand-up event in the 2022 comedy season is on this Friday, December 16, and promises a night of cracking Christmas comedy.

Host Frida Deguise, who has built a reputation for breaking stereotypes by being Australia’s first and only hijab-wearing Muslim Australian stand-up comedian, will be bringing along another incredible line-up of comedians to the Q Theatre, including Al Del Bene, Chris Franklin, Peter Meisel, Michael Vincent, and Julia Wilson.

One of the night’s highlights, L.A. Comedy Awards’ Comedian of The Year, Al Del Bene

(pictured), started doing comedy in Boston at the age of 18.

Since then, he’s become best known for some of his television appearances, including on ‘Comics Unleashed’, HBO’s ‘Tourgasm’, ‘NESN Comedy All Stars’ and ‘Jon Lovitz Presents’.

Chris Franklin is also set to bring his best on the night, with his ‘Hoganesque’ style of comedy appealing to every average Australian, touching on the delicate issues of beer, sport and relationships.

‘Comedy @ The Joan’ will be on at The Joan on Friday, December 16 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are $25 for under 30s and PAL members, $30 concession and $35 standard. For more information or to book, visit thejoan.com.au.

On Saturday, December 31, bring in the new year with Disco Revolution at the EVAN Theatre.

Disco Revolution promises a fun-filled night like no other.

A powerhouse seven-piece band fronted by two incredible vocalists, Disco Revolution transports audience members back to the days when music was alive with disco, boogie and dance hits.

With dance and disco music remaining just as popular and influential as it was in its peak, this show is giving fans of disco, new and old, the perfect opportunity to be a part of an atmosphere of energy that will electrify

DANCE THE YEAR AWAY!

the dance floor to all your favourite tunes. The night’s set list will include only the most iconic tracks, such as hits from Tina Turner, Donna Summer, KC & The Sunshine Band, Gloria Gaynor, Earth Wind & Fire, and more.

With over two and a half hours of high energy dance songs specifically curated for the special New Year’s Eve show, Disco Revolution promises that fans are in for a night to remember.

Plus, head in early from 7pm in your best 70s and 80s party gear to dance the night away with their resident DJ.

Disco Revolution will be on at the EVAN Theatre at Panthers on Saturday, December 31 at 7.45pm. Tickets are $42.75. For more information or to book, visit penrith. panthers.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

CASSIDY PEARCE

CASSIDY PEARCE

The largest and longest-running Polish cultural festival outside of Poland, PolArt, will be returning to Sydney this month, with a special performance at Riverside Theatre.

With the resettlement of Polish ancestors to foreign lands, nostalgia remains at the core of much contemporary ethnic Polish culture, given the resettlement of Polish ancestors to foreign lands throughout history.

Though these traditions continue to be practiced as memories stay alive, ethnic minorities in Poland also maintained their customs within their adopted homeland. PolArt Festivals have been celebrating these

new and traditional forms of culture through dance, music, theatre, literature and visual arts for 45 years.

Now, after 19 years touring other Australian capital cities, PolArt is making its way back to Sydney, with a reinvigorated and reimagined folk identity for the current generation, evolved from traditional melodies into new sounds and rhythms.

In the show, ‘Reweaving the Tapestry – A New Polish Rhythm’, the audience will join performers through a time capsule of dance and music, from traditional and historical to modern.

‘Reweaving the Tapestry – A New Polish Rhythm’ will be on at Riverside Theatre on Friday, December 30 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $65. For more information or to book, visit riversideparramatta.com.au.

TO HOST SCREENING OF FESTIVE FAVOURITE

Nothing quite says Christmas like ‘The Nutcracker’.

A classic ballet which has become somewhat of a festive tradition for many, ‘The Nutcracker’ is an 1892 two-act ballet originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov with a now instantly recognisable score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The ballet follows Clara, whose Christmas Eve party becomes a magical adventure once everyone else is asleep.

Over the course of the spectacular show, Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker fight the Mouse King and visit the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince in the glittering Kingdom of Sweets.

The Royal Ballet’s live performance of the iconic ballet in the UK will be shown on screen at Riverside Theatre in Parramatta in the lead up to Christmas, providing a tremendous festive treat.

Peter Wright’s much-loved production for The Royal Ballet, with gorgeous period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, remains true to the classic ballet, combining stun-

$16. For more information or to book tickets, visit riversideparramatta. com.au.

ning classical dance with festive elements and the thrill of the fairy tale.

‘Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker’ will be on at Riverside Theatre in Parramatta on Thursday, December 22 at 7pm, and on Friday, December 23 2pm and 7pm. Tickets start at

CASSIDY PEARCE

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ tells the story of the Sully family, the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure.

Cast members Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Stephen Lang, Joel David Moore, CCH Pounder, Giovanni Ribisi, Dileep Rao, and Matt Gerald reprise their roles from the original film. Now showing.

Following the events of ‘Shrek Forever After’, Puss in Boots becomes a legend after defeating a giant monster, but is accidentally killed by a bell.

Upon waking up, he discovers that his passion for adventure has taken its toll: he

has burnt through eight of his nine lives. After initially hanging up his cape and becoming a domesticated pet cat, Puss realises his journey is not over, and sets out on his grandest quest yet. Now showing.

www.hoyts.com.au

TV SHOWS OF THE YEAR

missed these TV hits, it’s time

Do you finally have some downtime over summer? A chance to catch up on those TV shows everyone was talking about, but you never got a chance to watch? Here’s our list of the hottest 10 shows to watch this summer...

The White Lotus (Foxtel, Binge)

Season one of this comedy-drama was top notch but the second season, which has just finished airing, absolutely knocks it out of the park. Aubrey Plaza as Harper absolutely shines in what is a largely ensemble cast featuring holiday-makers all at the White Lotus resort for various reasons. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll get angry... there’s so much going on here, all wrapped up in a murder mystery of sorts. The finale was some of the most tense TV of the year. You don’t need to have seen the first season to enjoy the second, but you’d be mad not to watch both if you’re yet to discover this gem.

George & Tammy (Paramount+)

A late entrant to the list given it’s only just started airing in the United States, but ‘George & Tammy’ has plenty of buzz around it at present and is being fast-tracked to Australian audiences via Paramount+. The show chronicles the musical and personal partnership of country music icons George Jones and Tammy Wynette, and is an entertaining look back at one of the genre’s most intriguing stories. Starring Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain, this one is definitely worth a look over the summer.

Wednesday (Netflix)

This supernatural comedy horror has certainly got tongues wagging amongst its viewers and has received mostly positive reviews this year. Starring Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams (yes, from ‘The Addams Family’), the show follows Wednesday’s move to a school for monstrous outcasts, that her parents Gomez and Morticia once attended. Wednesday discovers she has psychic abilities, which help her to solve a local murder mystery. Well worth a look particularly if you love a bit of supernatural drama.

Tulsa King (Paramount+)

There’s every reason not to like ‘Tulsa King’ featuring an ageing Sylvester Stallone as a gangster released from jail after 25 years; adjusting to life on the outside. But this is actually a very good show – and has already been renewed for a second season. Stallone doesn’t take himself too seriously here; we’re not expected to believe that a 70-somethingyear-old is winning fist fights with those half his age. If you like a bit of action, ‘Tulsa King’ may just be the show for you over the summer holidays.

Better Call Saul (Stan)

Plenty of ‘Breaking Bad’ fans gave up on this prequel early on, but they’ve missed out on perhaps the best television show of the last five years. The sixth season of ‘Better Call Saul’, which follows lawyer Jimmy McGill on his journey to become Saul Goodman, aired earlier this year. It features some of the finest acting performances in years, with a storyline that is gripping and tense. You don’t have to have seen ‘Breaking Bad’ to appreciate ‘Better Call Saul’, but you’ll get much more out of it if you’ve seen Vince Gilligan’s trademark series.

Aubrey Plaza is a highlight of ‘The White Lotus’.

Bob Odenkirk is brilliant in ‘Better Call Saul’.

to catch up over the summer break

The Dropout (Disney+)

This intriguing biographical drama is even more timely now that Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of biotech company Theranos and the subject of the series, has recently been sentenced. Amanda Seyfried stars as Holmes, who claimed she’d revolutionise the healthcare industry with tech that could diagnose a range of conditions with a simple drop of blood. The only issue was, it never worked. Her deceptions ran deep, and the show details her intense relationships with family, friends and colleagues – and how it all unravelled in the end.

For All Mankind (Apple TV)

The third and arguably best season of ‘For All Mankind’ aired on Apple this year and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The science fiction drama asks the question, what would happen if Russia beat America to the moon in the 1960s? What follows is an alternate history storyline, with the global space race essentially never ending and America’s battle with Russia reaching intense and unprecedented heights. The casting here is superb, and ‘For All Mankind’ rarely drops the ball across its three seasons.

Colin From Accounts (Foxtel, Binge)

This new Aussie comedy has offered plenty of laughs at the end of the year, with eight great episodes that make for top entertainment. Starring Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer, ‘Colin From Accounts’ focuses on Ashley and Gordon, who are brought together by a car

accident and an injured dog. If you’re looking for something a little lighter over the summer period, a binge of this could be the way to go.

Love Me (Foxtel, Binge)

Nominated for a swag of awards, ‘Love Me’ premiered last summer and delivered six punchy, clever episodes that make this one of the shows of the year. Starring Bojana Novakovic and Hugo Weaving, the show follows the trials and tribulations of a typical family set-up, navigating the shallows of a terminal illness that has rattled their ‘normality’. There’s plenty of laughs here but it’s not quite

a light show, with some dark moments thrown in as well.

The Bear (Disney+)

This very clever comedy-drama follows a young chef from the world of fine dining who returns to Chicago to run his family’s Italian beef sandwich shop, after the suicide of his brother. Dealing with rising debts, a rundown kitchen and unruly staff, Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) must somehow keep the business afloat and prove to his family that he’s far from a no-hoper. This is an intense watch, but with enough laughs to break the tension.

Amanda Seyfried shines as Elizabeth Holmes in ‘The Dropout’.

Bojana Novakovic stars in ‘Love Me’.

Ê David Campbell and Brooke Boney have been announced as hosts of ‘Carols by Candlelight’ this year on Channel Nine. The Melbourne-based tradition will be broadcast on Saturday, December 24 at 8.00pm on Channel 9 and 9Now. David and Brooke will be joined again by Channel Nine’s beloved Carols family including David Hobson, Marina Prior, Silvie Paladino, Anthony Callea, Tim Campbell and Denis Walter. Also joining them this year will be Mitch Tambo, Casey Donovan, the Central Australian Aboriginal Women’s Choir, Rob Mills, Bobby Fox, Vika & Linda Bull, Emma Watkins and Simon Gleeson, with many more names to come.

Ê Country music-themed drama ‘Monarch’, which is currently airing in Australia on Paramount+, has been axed and won’t continue beyond its first season. If you’ve sat down to watch the first few episodes, you probably know why.

Ê Foxtel is preparing for the end of an

era, with perhaps its most famous show to disappear in 2023. ‘The Simpsons’, which has been a Foxtel flagship for the past 27 years, will leave the pay TV provider on January 1, with Disney+ to now house episodes exclusively. Foxtel hasn’t had new episodes of ‘The Simpsons’ for some time but repeats have been a staple of Fox 8’s schedule. To commemorate the departure, Foxtel is currently broadcasting a 25-day non-stop marathon of the cartoon, which will conclude on December 31.

Ê The media career of Chris Smith is in tatters. After an investigation was launched into his behaviour at a Christmas party last weekend, Sky News has now sacked the broadcaster. Smith hosted ‘Chris Smith Tonight’ on Sundays and was about to be given a regular weekday program. “Following an investigation into allegations of serious misconduct, we have today advised Chris Smith that his contract with Sky News Australia has been terminated as a result of inappropriate behaviour that is in breach of his contract and company policy,” Sky News boss Paul Whittaker said. Smith has also been sacked by radio station 2GB.

Ê Sad news this week with the passing of June Blair, best known for ‘The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet’. She became a regular on the iconic American family comedy, starring as June Nelson – portraying the wife of her real-life husband, David Nelson. She appeared on the comedy from 1961 to 1966, abruptly introduced in an episode entitled ‘The Newlyweds Get Settled’. I have to admit, I’m a fan of ‘Ozzie and Harriet’ (despite it now being very old fashioned and unwoke) and June became one of my favourites in the show. She’s one of the last permanent cast members of the show, which became one of the longest-running American comedies in history, to pass away.

Ê Channel Nine has already started promoting the next season of ‘Married at First Sight’, which will return early in the new year. Channel 10 will get a head-start on reality programming with a wave of shows to begin in the first couple of weeks of the year, but Nine will hold ‘Married at First Sight’ until after its Australian Open tennis commitments.

Ê Nathan Taylor is on leave.

CONCLUDING DECEMBER 31 THE SIMPSONS, FOXTEL

Troy Dodds

TV Guide: December 16–22

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00

The Pool (PG) 11:10 The Wimbledon Kidnapping (M) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Belgravia (PG) 1:45 Doc Martin (PG) 2:35

Poh’s Kitchen 3:05 Gardening Australia 4:10 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00 Back Roads (PG) 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:30 Vera (M d,v) 10:00 Troppo (M l,v) 10:55 ABC Late News 11:15 Adam Hills: The Last Leg (M) 11:55 rage (MA15+)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Christmas At Maple Creek” (PG) (’20) Stars: Jeni Ross 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer 7:30 Cricket: BBL: Melbourne Stars v Hobart Hurricanes *Live* 8:15 Cricket: BBL: Sydney Thunder v Adelaide Strikers *Live*

3:30 Aussie Lobster Men (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Cricket: BBL: Melbourne Stars v Hobart Hurricanes *Live* 7:30 Carnage (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Rambo: First Blood Part II” (M l,v) (’85)

3:00 Black-ish (PG)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra Summer 11:00 Swimming: The FINA World Swimming Championships *Live* 1:00 Christmas With Emma Dean - Eatwell Presents 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 4:30 Millionaire Hot Seat 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Swimming: The FINA World Swimming Championships *Live* 10:30 Movie: “Deck The Halls” (PG) (’06) Stars: Danny DeVito

3:30 My Name Is Earl (PG) 4:00 The Simpsons (PG) 5:00 Wild Transport (PG) 6:30 Movie: “Rio 2” (G) (’14) Stars: Anne Hathaway 8:30 Movie: “Alien” (M l,v) (’79) Stars: Sigourney Weaver 11:00 Bridezillas (M)

6:05 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 6:25 Octonauts 7:00 Odd Squad 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Love The Coopers” (PG) (’15) Stars: Steve Martin 10:15 Doctor Who (PG) 11:00 Back (MA15+)

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Vera (PG) 2:00 Midsomer Murders (PG) 3:30 Harley & Katya 4:55 Dream Gardens 5:25 Monty Don’s Japanese Gardens 6:25 The ABC Of Sarah Ferguson (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 8:20 Shetland (M) 9:20 Midsomer Murders (M v) 10:50 Movie: “The Post” (M l) (’17) Stars: Meryl Streep 12:40 rage (MA15+) 5:00 rage (PG)

12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:30 Border Security International (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 9:30 Escape To The Perfect Town 10:30 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 Cricket: Pre Game 11:20 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 1:20 The Lunch Break 2:00 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 4:00 Tea Break 4:20 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 2022 VIC State Schools: Spectacular 9:30 2022 NSW State Schools: Creating The Magic 12:00 TBA 1:00 Home Shopping

3:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 4:00 Carnage (PG) 5:00 Leepu And Pitbull (PG) 6:00 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Ultimate Rides (PG) 8:30 Counting Cars (M)

3:25 Little J & Big Cuz 4:00 Grace Beside Me 4:30 Thalu 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 Songlines On Screen 6:00 Bamay (PG) 6:40 Great Blue Wild 7:30 Barrumbi Kids (PG) 8:00 Movie: “Bush Christmas” (PG) (’83) Stars: John Ewart

5:30 Come Dine With Me Couples 6:30 Nigella Express 7:00

The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Gordon Ramsay’s Christmas Cookalong 9:00 Gok Wan’s Easy Asian 10:00 Donal’s Meals In Minutes 10:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

6:00 The Talk 7:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 7:30 Judge Judy (PG) 8:00 10 News First 8:30 Studio 10 (PG) 12:00 Dr Phil (M) 1:00 Jamie’s One-Pan Christmas 2:00

Entertainment Tonight 2:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) 3:30 Freshly Picked 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Jamie’s Easy Meals For Every Day 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Graham Norton Show (M) 9:30 Just For Laughs Australia (M l,s)

12:00 NCIS: Los Angeles (PG) 1:00 NCIS (PG) 2:00 Bull (M) 3:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 3:30 The Love Boat (PG) 4:30 Star Trek: The Next Generation (PG) 5:30 MacGyver (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 8:30 NCIS: Los Angeles (PG) 10:20 Evil (M)

5:05 Shortland Street (PG) 5:35 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross 6:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 6:30 Football: FIFA World Cup 2022 Daily World Cup Show 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Hoarders (M l)

11:00 Swimming: The FINA World Swimming Championships *Live* 1:00 Surfing Australia TV 1:30 Cross Court 2:00 Animal Embassy (PG) 2:30 Explore 2:45 Movie: “A Glenbrooke Christmas” (M l,n,s) (’20) Stars: Autumn Reeser 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Country House Hunters Australia 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Swimming: The FINA World Swimming Championships *Live*

3:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 3:30 America’s Got Talent Extreme (PG) 5:30 Better Homes And Gardens Summer 7:00 Movie: “The Santa Clause” (G) (’94) Stars: Tim Allen 9:05 Movie: “Aliens” (M) (’86) Stars: Sigourney Weaver

6:05 Interstellar Ella 6:25 Sir Mouse 7:00 Andy And The Band 6:55 Adventures Of Paddington 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (MA15+) 9:15 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (M s) 10:00 TBA

5:35 Power To The People (PG) 6:05 Pacific Island Food Revolution 6:55 NITV News Update 7:05 On Country Kitchen (PG) 7:35 Boteti: The Returning River (PG) 8:35 Movie: “The Tracker” (M v) (’02) Stars: David Gulpilil

4:30 Weekend Breaks With Gregg Wallace 5:30 Taste Of Diversity 6:30 Gordon’s Ultimate Christmas 7:30 Destination Flavour Japan 8:30 Jamie’s American Road Trip 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 10:30 Top Chef

5:00 Worldwatch 9:05 Peer To Peer (PG) 10:00 Paul O’Grady Little Heroes 11:00 Barkley Manor 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Saving Lives At Sea (PG) 3:00 Luke Nguyen’s Railway Vietnam 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys: Spain (PG) 4:50 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers (PG) 5:30 Football: FIFA World Cup Extra 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Engineering Reborn (PG) 8:30 Inside Central Station (PG)

11:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 12:30 Frasier (PG) 1:30 Seinfeld (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Mom (M d,s) 11:00 Frasier (PG)

4:00 That 70’s Show (PG) 4:30 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Nanny Diaries” (PG) (’07) Stars: Scarlett Johansson 7:40 Movie: “Mean Girls” (M) (’04) Stars: Tina Fey 9:40 Movie: “Monster-In-Law” (M s) (’05)

9:30 Studio 10: Saturday 12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 Well Traveller (PG) 1:00 The Offroad Adventure Show 2:00 All 4 Adventure 3:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures 4:00 Farm To Fork 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:30 Hungry (PG) 7:00 Jamie’s OnePan Wonders 7:30 Movie: “Sherlock Holmes” (M v) (’09) Stars: Robert Downey Jnr 10:00 Movie: “Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows” (M) (’11)

2:00 A-Leagues All Access (PG) 2:30 Stories Of Bike (PG) 3:00 MacGyver (M) 5:00 Reel Action 5:30 I Fish 6:00 Scorpion (PG) 7:00 Football: Round 7: Melbourne City v Melbourne Victory *Live* 10:00 MacGyver (M) 11:00 48 Hours

4:30 Mastermind Australia 5:35 Vs. Arashi 6:30 Football: FIFA World Cup 2022 Daily World Cup Show 7:30 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Super Mario Bros.” (M) (’93) Stars: Bob Hoskins

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Blog Cabin 4:30 Barn Hunters 5:00

Island Of Bryan (PG) 6:00

House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Yard Crashers 8:30 Lakefront Bargain Hunt Renovation 9:30 Building Off The Grid

3:30 Movie: “Brothers In Law” (G) (’57) Stars: Richard Attenborough 5:30 Murder, She Wrote (PG) 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 TBA 8:30 Movie: “The Living Daylights” (PG) (’87) Stars: Timothy Dalton 11:10 New Amsterdam (M)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:05 Britain’s Great Outdoors (PG) 10:05 The World From Above (PG) 11:05 Paul O’Grady Little Heroes 12:00 Worldwatch 12:30 Sport: Surf Life Saving Iron Series *Live* 2:30 Football: RO16: Group G Winner v Group H Runnerup *Replay* 5:30 Football: FIFA World Cup Extra 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Lapland: The Ultimate Winter Wonderland (PG) 8:30 Kensington Palace: Behind Closed Doors (PG) 9:25 Thatcher & Reagan (PG)

8:00 Frasier (PG) 9:00 Becker (PG) 10:00 Friends (PG) 12:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 1:00 The Challenge Australia (PG) 3:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 TikTok For You Fest (PG) 10:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

3:00 Inside Phuket Airport (PG) 4:45 Movie: “About A Boy” (M l,s) (’02) Stars: Hugh Grant 5:15 Movie: “Bee Movie” (G) (’07) Stars: Jerry Seinfeld 7:00 TBA 7:30 Movie: “Mean Girls” (M) (’04) 9:30 Movie: “Monster-InLaw” (M) (’05)

2:30 Restored 3:30 Island Of Bryan (PG) 4:30 Holmes Family Rescue 5:30 Yard Crashers 6:30 Building Off The Grid (PG) 7:30 Escape To The Chateau (PG) 8:30 House Hunters USA 9:30 House Hunters International

11:00 Seaway (PG) 12:00 World’s Greatest Natural Wonders (PG) 1:00 Movie: “Summer Holiday” (G) (’63) Stars: Cliff Richard 3:15 Movie: “Clambake” (G) (’67) Stars: Elvis Presley 7:30 Movie: “Licence To Kill” (M v) (’89) Stars: Timothy Dalton

Monday 19 December

11:20 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test

1: Day 3 *Live* 1:20 The Lunch Break 2:00

Cricket: Test 1: Day 3 *Live* 4:00 Tea Break 4:20 Cricket: Test 1: Day 3 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Hobart Hurricanes v Perth Scorchers *Live* 11:00 The Spin 11:30 April Jones: The Interrogation Tapes (MA15+)

12:00 Movie: “Christmas In Washington” (PG) (’21) Stars: Natalie Lisinska 1:50 Explore 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Snackmasters (PG) 8:50 Inside The Superbrands 9:50 Australian Crime Stories (MA15+)

2:00 Entertainment Tonight 2:30 Bad Chef 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) 3:30

Freshly Picked 4:00 Farm To Fork

Jamie’s Easy Meals For Every Day 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30

Bondi Rescue (PG) 8:30 Ghosts (M) 9:30

Movie: “Mission: Impossible” (M v) (’96) Stars: Tom Cruise 11:45 FBI: Most Wanted

SBS World News 7:30 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (M) 8:30 24 Hours In Emergency (PG) 9:25 Secrets Of Playboy (M) 10:15 SBS World News 11:45 Reunions (M l) (In French) 1:55 Medici: The Magnificent Part II

To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 8:30 Inspector Morse (PG)

4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape

6:00 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test 1: Day 3 *Live* 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 American Pickers (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Recruit” (M l,v) (’03)

6:00 My Name Is Earl (PG) 6:30 The Simpsons (PG) 7:30 Family Guy (M s) 8:00 American Dad (M) 8:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares

6:25 Rusty Saves Christmas 7:10 Odd Squad 7:30 Universe With Brian Cox 8:30 Long Lost Family (PG) 9:20 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces

6:30 The Land We’re On With Penelope Towney 6:45 Great Blue Wild 7:35 Hip Hop Evolution (M d,l) 8:30 Karla Grant Presents (PG)

7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey 8:00 Cooking With Curtis 8:30 Jamie & Jimmy’s Food Fight Club

3:30 The Love Boat (PG) 4:30 Star Trek: The Next Generation (PG) 5:30 MacGyver (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 The Code (M) 12:15 Home Shopping

6:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 6:30 Football: FIFA World Cup 2022 Daily World Cup Show 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

1:00 Broke (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Seinfeld (M)

5:00 Good Bones (PG) 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 8:30 Bargain Block 9:30 Steal This House 10:30 Windy City Rehab 6:50

7:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 7:30 The Weakest Link USA (PG) 8:30 Love Island Australia (M) 9:40 Movie: “Four Holidays” (M s) (’08) Stars: Vince Vaughn

6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Death In Paradise (PG) 8:40 Movie: “Tomorrow Never Dies” (M s,v) (’97) Stars: Pierce Brosnan

Strikers v Sydney Thunder *Live* 11:00 Chicago Fire: (M v) 12:00 The Real Dirty Dancing (PG)

6:00

12:00 Movie: “Fixing Up Christmas” (PG) (’21) Stars: Marshall Williams 1:45 Talking Honey (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Travel Guides: (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Bad Moms 2” (M) (’17) Stars: Mila Kunis 10:35 La Brea (M)

Earl (PG) 6:30

Simpsons (PG) 7:30 Family Guy (PG) 8:00 American Dad (M) 8:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares

6:30 NITV

Update 6:40 Great Blue Wild 7:30 Off Country (PG) 8:00 The Beach (M l) 8:30 The Last Land (PG) 9:00 Hunting Aotearoa (PG)

2:00 Entertainment Tonight 2:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) 3:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Jamie’s Easy Meals For Every Day 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Ambulance Australia (M) 8:30 NCIS (M v) 9:30 Movie: “Mission: Impossible II” (M v) (’00) Stars: Tom Cruise

3:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 3:30 The Love Boat (PG) 4:30 Star Trek: The Next Generation (PG) 5:30 MacGyver (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 8:30 Bull (M)

2:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 3:00 Jeopardy! (PG) 3:30 Ethnic Business Awards 2022 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are?: Denise Drysdale (M) 8:35 Whitney Houston & Bobbi Kristina: Didn’t We Almost Have It All (PG) 10:10 SBS World News

1:30 Seinfeld (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Mom (M d,s)

6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Escape To The Chateau Specials 8:30 Our Yorkshire Farm 9:30 Farmhouse Facelift

7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey 8:00 Shelfie With Dan Hong 8:30 John Torode’s Ireland 9:30 River Cottage Australia

7:10 Jeopardy! 7:35 NITV News Update 7:40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Billy Connolly: Made In Scotland (PG)

6:00 3rd Rock From The Sun (PG) 6:30 That 70’s Show (PG) 7:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Botched (M) 8:30 Love Island Australia (M) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Christmas Cabaret (PG) 2:00 Call The Midwife (PG) 3:00 Gardening Australia 3:55 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:45 Back Roads (PG) 5:10 QI (PG) 5:45 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:10 Grand Designs New Zealand 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Mad As Hell Does Hard Quiz (PG) 8:35 The Yearly With Charlie Pickering 2022 (M)

6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (PG) 8:40 Movie: “The World Is Not Enough” (PG) (’99) Stars: Pierce Brosnan 11:15 Snapped (M)

6:00 Sunrise 10:00 Cricket: Pre Game 11:20 Cricket: Australia v South Africa: Test 1: Day 5 *Live* 1:20 The Lunch Break 2:00 Cricket: Test 1: Day 5 *Live* 4:00 Tea Break 4:20 Cricket: Test 1: Day 5 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Melbourne Renegades v Brisbane Heat *Live* 11:00 Crime Investigation Australia (M v)

Heartbeat

v) 10:45

Wednesday 21 December 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30

6:50 Movie: “Shaun The Sheep Movie” (G) (’15) Stars: Justin Fletcher 8:20 Lost In Oz 8:45 Dodo 8:55 The Next Step 9:20 Holly Hobbie 9:40 rage (PG) 6:00 ABC Evening News 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 8:30 Australian Story 9:00 ABC Nightly News

12:00 Movie: “A Recipe For Joy” (AKA ‘Christmas À La Carte’) (PG) (’21) Stars: Erin Agostino 1:45 Explore 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Country Home Rescue With Shaynna Blaze (PG) 8:30 Dream Listing Byron Bay

6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Unknown Amazon (PG) 7:30 Deadly Funny (M l,s) 8:35 I, Sniper (MA15+) 9:35 Kutcha’s Koorioke (M)

3:30 The Love Boat (PG) 4:30 Star Trek: The Next Generation (PG) 5:30 MacGyver (PG) 7:30 NCIS (PG) 8:30 Hawaii Five-0 (M) 10:20 Tommy (MA15+)

2:30 The Big Bang Theory (M s) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M s)

6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Holmes Family Rescue 8:30 Home Town Takeover 9:30 House Hunters Reno

6:25

‘Let it Snow’ famously plays out at the end of which 1988 action adventure film, which is definitely a Christmas movie?

George Bailey is the main character in which classic Christmas movie?

In the Christmas hit film

‘Home Alone’ which city did Macaulay Culkin’s family visit, leaving him behind? 5. Which British actor plays Santa Claus in the 1994 remake of ‘A Miracle on 34th Street’? 6. In which popular Christmas film does Tim Allen’s character accidentally kill Santa Claus and is forced to take over the role?

Male Artist of the Year (International): Morgan Wallen What an incredible comeback year for one of country’s biggest stars, Morgan Wallen (pictured).

After a major controversy in 2021, Wallen returned bigger and better than ever in 2022, winning Entertainer of the Year at the CMA Awards, and delivering brilliant new music.

Wallen will be touring Australia early next year.

Female Artist of the Year (International): Lainey Wilson Lainey Wilson may have been around since 2011, but the now

30-year-old has exploded on to the international country scene this year.

She won both the Female Artist of the Year and New Artist of the Year gongs at the CMA Awards, and her album ‘Bell Bottom Country’ has earned extensive critical acclaim.

In 2022, Lainey Wilson without question made her mark as one of the biggest female stars in country music.

Headline Moment of the Year: Country’s biggest divorce Without question, this year’s Headline Moment of the Year goes to the shock split of Morgan Evans and Kelsea Ballerini. The pair finalised their divorce a few months ago.

AQUARIUS

Mars is reversing through your entertainment zone, so it’s up to you to handle Xmas celebrations (and misunderstandings) with stacks of Aquarian style. Be smart enough to rise above silly family squabbles! Saturn is still transiting through your sign, so you’re keen to keep the traditional parts of Christmas. And you can add some exciting new festive flourishes of your own. As birthday great Benjamin Disraeli wrote, “Change is inevitable. Change is constant.”

Have you been worrying about money? Jupiter is transiting through your $$$ zone for the next five months, so make the most of any lucky financial opportunities that come your way. However, with Mars reversing through your domestic zone, Xmas communication shenanigans are likely. So a truck-load of tact is required, otherwise you could find yourself in the middle of a feisty family feud, as you blurt out the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time.

Your bossy side usually goes into overdrive, as you take charge of festive preparations. But perhaps it would be smarter to slow down, delegate and cooperate this Christmas? With your ruler Mars in retrograde mode, it’s time to morph from a rowdy Ram into a gentle Lamb. Jupiter also moves back into your sign (until May 16). So capitalise on the positive vibes and good fortune it provides. Confidence is the rocket fuel that will really take you places!

When it comes to last minute gift shopping, look for presents that are practical and useful. But, if you spend more than you can comfortably afford this Xmas, then you’ll just end up with a heap of New Year debt. Remember … you don’t have to go overboard in order to have a good time. And avoid getting too serious and stressed. It’s time for Bulls to bliss out on Yuletide cheer! A calm and methodical approach is the best way to handle festive celebrations.

With Jupiter visiting your hopes and wishes zone (from Wednesday until May 16) it’s important to make plans and set goals. Go for gold, as Jupiter helps you envision ambitious dreams for 2023. A streamlined approach is the key to successful Yuletide preparations. If you plan carefully and prioritise, then you’ll get everything done without too much stress. But, if you eat and drink too much on Xmas Day, then you’ll be a grumpy Gemini on Boxing Day.

Jupiter – planet of good fortune and prosperity – transits through your career zone from Wednesday until May 16, 2023. Which bodes well for a welcome promotion, big new job or lucky professional break coming your way over the next few months. But this week, don’t get carried away and overdo the Christmas cheer, especially eating and drinking. If you pace yourself, then you – and your delicate digestive system – will enjoy the celebrations even more.

Party-loving Lions love the colourful drama of Yuletide celebrations. Just make sure you’re pulling your weight on Xmas Day – with preparations and cleaning up – otherwise you’ll be in the bad books by Boxing Day. Even though it’s the height of the festive season, strive to make your food choices as healthy and nutritious as possible. With Jupiter bouncing through your travel zone, 2023 will be a bumper year and Cats need to be in tip-top condition.

You’re in the mood for Yuletide cheer and holiday hijinks! But, with Mars still retrograde, erratic thoughts could cloud your judgment (especially about your career). So enjoy the festive celebrations, and leave important decision-making for another time (when you’re thinking more rationally). The Mercury/Neptune link encourages you to think creatively and communicate compassionately. Then you’ll have a satisfying and stimulating Christmas weekend.

It’s a good week to make plans and set goals for 2023, especially involving home, family and finances. Joyful Jupiter transits into your partnership zone (where it stays until next May). So strive to be more generous towards loved ones, as you view a troubled relationship from a more philosophical perspective. Your Xmas motto is from birthday great, singer-songwriter-activist Annie Lennox, “Make kindness your daily modus operandi and change your world.”

With the Moon and Saturn in your domestic zone on Christmas Day, many Scorpios will host festive celebrations at home. But communication between guests looks fiery, as argumentative retrograde Mars stirs up sensitivities. It will take your very best diplomatic (and acting) skills to keep children under control; parents from getting paranoid; and family members from feuding. When in doubt, take 10 deep breaths and continue. The show must go on!

Have you left most of your Christmas shopping to the last minute … again? If you make a detailed list and pace yourself, then you’ll get the gifts you need without too many problems. Look for creative presents that stimulate the imagination. And avoid jumping to hasty conclusions when you’re communicating with loved ones on Christmas Day. With Mars reversing through your relationship zone, do your best to display more patience and compassion.

With jolly Jupiter jumping through your home zone, you’re looking forward to some fabulous festive fun and cheer. Clannish Capricorns are the keepers of the family flame so aim to be super proactive about gathering loved ones together over the coming week. But don’t labour under the delusion that you can handle everything on your own. Cooperation is the secret to a successful Christmas. So ‘many hands make light work’ is your Yuletide motto.

PET HEALTH

Tackling fleas as weather warms up

Do you struggle with keeping your pet flea-free? Don’t be alarmed, you’re not the only one. During the warmer months fleas are particularly common. They make our pets’ lives itchy and uncomfortable. The answer to keeping fleas off your pet is simple – prevention.

What are fleas?

Fleas are tiny, dark brown parasitic insects that infest the coat and skin of pets. They can jump up to 150 times their own length, making the transfer of fleas between your pets difficult to prevent. Their remarkable jumping skills also allow them to transit easily from surrounding environments to your pet.

How do I know if my pet has fleas?

One of the first signs of a flea infestation in your pet is itching. On inspection of your pet’s coat, you will likely see one or more fleas moving around on the surface of your pet’s skin. You may also notice tiny black particles that look like dirt; these could be flea droppings. An adult female flea lays an average of 20 to 30 eggs each day.

How do pets get fleas?

Fleas form cocoons which can remain dormant for astonishingly long periods of time. They inhabit the garden, carpet, and furniture until they are able to hitch a ride on your pet. They jump great distances to find a host and bite both pets and humans.

Why is it important to treat and prevent fleas?

Fleas are the number one cause of skin disease in pets and can cause problems ranging from simple itchiness to weeping sores, scaly skin and infection. Some animals are allergic to flea bites (a condition known as Flea Allergy Dermatitis), where one bite sets off an auto-immune reaction. All skin conditions require veterinary treatment. Fleas breed at an enormous rate. The fleas you see on your dog represent only 5-10 per cent of

the fleas within their environment. The rest of the population is represented in the egg and larval stages found in your carpets, furniture, bedding, and garden.

The lifecycle explained Only five per cent of fleas live in the environment as an adult and 95 per cent of fleas live as eggs, larvae, or pupae. For effective flea control, it is essential to break the lifecycle in the environment. This is a crucial part of flea management and prevention.

Adult fleas – Jump onto your dog or cat, feed on their blood and then start laying eggs.

Eggs – One female lays an average of 30 eggs per day, which drop off into carpets and bedding before hatching.

Larvae – The hatched eggs release larvae which move away from light, deeper into carpets and under furniture before developing into pupae. The larvae feed on organic debris and at this stage can consume tapeworm eggs, allowing them to become an intermediate host for the development of tapeworms.

This lifecycle can take as little as two to three weeks and as long as 12 months. To rid your pet and household from fleas, you must break this cycle.

How do I protect my pet from fleas?

There are many different flea products available to purchase, so choosing the right one for your pet type and age is essential.

Preventatives come as ‘spot on’ applications are easy to use and last three to four weeks or oral tablets that work as an effective birth control for fleas, interrupting the lifecycle. It is sometimes necessary to treat both the pet and the environment.

If your pet is scratching or has skin damage, it is best to have them checked by a vet to decide the best next steps.

Pet of the Week

Awart and a corn are two skin growths that commonly affect the feet.

Both warts and corns can be painful. The management for a wart and corn are different, so it is imperative to see a podiatrist if you have either for us to manage and identify any skin growths on the feet.

It is quite common that patients will self-manage a corn as a wart or vice versa and it commonly results in further complications.

Warts are viral and the virus responsible for the formation of a wart is called the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Warts exist in the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin (being the first and second layers of the skin). Warts can be either transmitted via direct or indirect contact. A disruption of the of the skin (cut or abrasion) increases the likelihood of someone developing a wart there. To help eliminate pain, a podiatrist

will debride the wart and depending on how a wart presents we use different solutions to manage your wart.

A corn is an uncomfortable area of thickened skin. They are flesh coloured, dry, rough lesions that grow with a core into the skin. Corns exist in the epidermal layer of the skin (first layer). Corns develop when an area of the foot is under high pressure or constant friction. They are commonly seen in athletes, the elderly, diabetic patients and patients with tight fitting footwear. Therefore, as corns are caused by constant pressure or friction, a podiatrist will address the cause and symptoms. This is done by debriding the corn, giving you footwear advice and considering a custom made orthotic to offload and redistribute pressure from the affected area.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

TALKING TECH

Surprises await in Microsoft

Aprogram that is rarely used on a Windows PC is the Microsoft Store. Like the Apple and Android store, the Microsoft store has thousands of programs and applications available for download, many free. Here are some of my favourites from this year’s 2022 awards.

ShareX – Allows you to capture and record screenshots or videos and share them. It is much more powerful than the one built into Windows (Snip tool). Actions can be mapped to hotkeys. I highly recommend and use it daily.

Wi-Fi Analyser – A fantastic tool that helps you identify weak signal spots in your Wi-Fi network. It effectively turns your PC into a wireless analyser. It allows you to determine the best locations for your Wi-Fi hotspot devices.

One Commander – A modern updated file manager with significantly more features and power than Windows Explorer. Well worth a look at.

Ear Trumpet – overlays the standard Windows volume control

manager, allowing you to control volumes individually on all applications.

LiquidText - A notation applica-

tion that allows you to gather, review and organise information across all your documents. This is great for managing content and adding your thoughts or comments. It supports

most document types and allows you to pull them together.

Animotica – An easy-to-use Video Editor. Much more powerful

than the built-in Windows editor. It allows you to combine videos, photos and music, as well as add voiceovers, freeze frames, reverse video, and many other features.

Shapr3D – Allows you to start with a sketch and develop it into a production-ready 3D model. It supports the importing and exporting of most 3D formats.

Paint.NET - An image and photo editing software. It is simple to use with powerful underlying features like layering. I highly recommend this, and this is my default graphics editing tool.

Adobe Express – Also a graphics editing tool, but unlike Paint.Net, it has a template library attached to it. It allows you to create content, including web pages, flyers without any design skills

Other better-known winners and runner-ups included Discord, Whatsapp Desktop, Spotify, Tubi, Hulu, and Disney+.

Be sure to check out the store. You might find something you like without having to purchase it. It’s really a hidden gem.

MONEY MATTERS

Festive spending habits

Personally, I always think of Melbourne Cup day as the start of the festive season.

It seems that the Melbourne Cup functions are the first in a series of Christmas parties and end of year celebrations. It is a great time of year; it can also be an expensive time of year!

It is very easy to overspend during this period, and way too many people get themselves into financial trouble. Hopefully, many of you read my article last year and have already allocated funds throughout the year for this period of increased spending, and have your festive period kitty ready to go. If you did, good work and enjoy! Obviously, you still need to be somewhat aware of what you are spending.

Increased spending over this period is inevitable, the key, as always, is to direct the increased spending to areas that add the most value. Too much of our spending adds very little value to our lives. It may not be necessary to buy a new outfit for every one of the functions you are attending. I know my wife loves to get a spray tan and her hair and make-up done for an event, it makes her feel great and this adds value. The difference is that she picks and chooses the events she goes “all out” for, while the others that aren’t as important, she does her own hair and make-up. For me, if I decide not to have a few

drinks at some events and drive, I can really reduce the cost of a night by avoiding the need for a taxi or a hotel room. Other nights, I will let my hair down and celebrate.

Christmas presents can really add up to be expensive. For my family, we no longer buy everyone a present, we have a Kris Kringle; we buy and receive a single present, but it is high quality. This works out to be cheaper and better value than buying a large number of inexpensive and lower quality presents.

This is just a few examples of how to direct your spending to the things that are important to you, so you can still enjoy the festive season without breaking the bank to do so.

The thing we really want to avoid is racking up a credit card debt. Ideally, you have put some money aside specifically for this period or have some savings. If you haven’t and will be putting money on the credit card, at least plan in advance how you are going to pay it back.

Don’t let this enjoyable time of the year become an expensive millstone for the rest of the year.

Insignia has your gifts covered

Finding the perfect Christmas present can seem hard but it doesn’t have to be.

Everyone loves being pampered and there is no one better to look after your loved ones than the award-winning salon Insignia Hair and Day Spa in Penrith.

Located on York Road, Insignia has a range of gift vouchers and packages to suit all budgets.

Whether it is your best friend, Mum, sister, or the special man in your life, the team will have them feeling relaxed and refreshed from head to toe.

The services range from eyelash lifts and eyebrow wax and tints, to facials, massages, body exfoliation and spray tans.

Get a perfect manicure or pedicure and you can leave with beautiful hair after a

scalp massage and treatment or a shampoo and blow dry.

With a range of treatments and price options, you will want to purchase one for yourself as well.

If you want to treat someone for an extended amount of time, buy them a bronze, silver, or gold membership so that they can choose their own treatments over four months, six months or the year and receive great rewards as well.

There is only 37 of each pack available so make sure not to miss out on the amazing offers.

To find out about all the packages, pop into the salon to see the friendly team or call 4722 3503.

You can also visit www.insigniahairanddayspa.com.au.

R.I.P.

DAVID CAMPBELL (CAMBY)

18/12/84 - 08/05/21

38th birthday and our second without you.

Missing you ever y minute of ever y day our beautiful son, best mate, con dant and the heart and soul of our family.

We still struggle to understand how you could have been taken away from us so soon.

Your life simply became too ugly, cruel and hear tless for someone as kind and sensitive as you With love and deep respect for eternity. Mum, Dad, Toni.

XOXOXO

David Campbell (CAMBY) 18/12/84 - 08/05/21 WW50165

Plains on Friday 16th December 2022 at 11:00am.

Gardening and Lawn Care Officer

If you’re looking to join a workplace that has an inspiring purpose, offers a family-friendly work environment, and nurtures your personal and professional development, join the Connect Children and Families team.

We’re a small Blue Mountains Community based not-for-pro t organisation, meaning we exist purely to improve the lives of children and their families in NSW’s Blue Mountains region and areas of Wester n Sydney

Our work truly makes a difference, creating positive change for children, families and community

Our small organisational size means greater employee connection and a community feel to our workplace. Our team members are names not numbers.

Current Career Opportunities:

• Early Childhood Teaching Director—Part Time—Possum Early Childhood Centre

• Early Childhood Educator, Cert III—Full Time—Hazelwood Early Childhood Centre

• Cert III Traineeship—Full Time—Possums Patch Early Childhood Centre

• Occupational Therapist (Paediatric)—Connected Abilities

• Speech Pathologist (Paediatric)—Connected Abilities

• Early Intervention Specialist/Key Worker—Connected Abilities

Bene ts of working at Connect:

• Situated in beautiful bushland surroundings

• Lots of part time opportunities to t around family and study

• Female friendly working environment

• Not for Pro t, Values based workplace

• Nurturing professional development

• Passionate, friendly team that live the values

• Salary packaging – helping you to reduce your taxable income and increase your fortnightly take home pay

•We encourage diverse staf ng to re ect the diverse children and families’ we support and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates as well as candidates with a disability

For more information or to apply please visit our website or email us WW50124

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POSITIONS VACANT POSITIONS VACANT

Five stars for Pathfinder AUTO

Nissan Pathfinder passes safety tests with flying colours in big win for brand

and

Australasia’s independent voice on vehicle safety, ANCAP, has announced a five-star safety rating for the new Nissan Pathfinder.

All variants of the three-row Nissan Pathfinder have achieved five stars after being put through the comprehensive range of active and passive safety tests conducted at local test facilities in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and regional NSW.

Full points were awarded for the Pathfinder’s protection of the driver in both the side impact and oblique pole tests, and the front-seat passenger in the frontal offset test. High scores were also awarded for protection of the driver in the full width frontal test, however chest protection for the rear passenger in this test was rated as Weak.

For the protection of child occupants, maximum points were scored in the frontal offset and side impact tests. The Pathfinder is fitted with ISOFIX and top-tether anchorages for all three seats in the second row,

and in the left-hand seat of the third row. An overall Child Occupant Protection score of 93 per cent was achieved.

front

An Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system capable of detecting and responding to pedestrians and cyclists is fitted to all Pathfinder variants. This system was shown to provide an Adequate level of overall performance in pedestrian test scenarios, and Good performance in tests with cyclists travelling along and across the road.

Collisions with other vehicles are also minimised through the Pathfinder’s AEB car-to-car system. A Good overall performance score was recorded, with the Pathfinder able to brake autonomously in emergency situations when approaching a stopped or slower moving car, or when turning across the path of an oncoming car.

“We’ve seen some impressive safety results from Nissan this year with the Qashqai, X-Trail, and now the Pathfinder all achieving five star safety ratings,” said ANCAP Chief Executive Officer, Carla Hoorweg.

“We look forward to seeing Nissan continue their commitment to offering the highest levels of safety.”

The new Pathfinder is fitted with a centre airbag to minimise occupant-to-occupant and occupant-to-vehicle contact in the

row, and good results were achieved in tests of its effectiveness. Head-protecting side curtain airbags are also fitted as standard,

extend to cover the outboard seating positions of all three seating rows.

TROY DODDS

three-row Nissan Pathfinder have achieved five stars after being put through the comprehen-

THE MASKED PANTHER

Crichton set to depart. See page 71.

Thunder win to start Big Bash season

casting the Big Bash League this season. Seven is broadcasting 45 matches, including all marquee games and finals.

The Big Bash League is back and western Sydney-based Sydney Thunder have added a key signing to their squad with Blake Nikitaras to wear the lime green over the summer.

Thunder coach Trevor Bayliss said the exciting 22-year-old left-hander, who has played five First Class matches for NSW, had been on his radar for a few seasons.

“From a batting point of view Blake looks like a big, strong kid who hits the ball hard,” he said.

“He’s a natural stroke player, but he’ll get only stronger, and he’ll only get better. I believe in a few years’ time – and with more strength – he could be devastating.

“While that’s a little way off, Blake is a young guy who doesn’t mind playing his shots – and I like that he strikes the ball nicely.”

Nikitaras, whose father Steve played for the NSW, Western Australia, and Greek national cricket teams, said he had a heartfelt reason to be “happy” about earning a contract with Sydney Thunder.

“I’m absolutely rapt to be with the Thunder and that joining Thunder makes my father and mother happy and proud,” he said.

“I rate this alongside being selected to play for NSW last year. Sydney Thunder is an elite team, and I am proud to be here. It means the world to me to be a part of a great club, and I’m pleased to have the opportunity to learn from the great players in the squad.”

The Thunder kicked off their campaign with a thrilling win over the Melbourne Stars on Tuesday night and will take on the Adelaide Strikers tonight, and the Renegades this Sunday.

Channel Seven and Foxtel are again broad-

Led by the incomparable Ricky Ponting, Seven’s commentary team for BBL|12 is made up of Ian Bishop, Greg Blewett, James Brayshaw, Trent Copeland, Ryan Daniels, Holly Ferling, Damien Fleming, Brad Hodge, Erin Holland, Justin Langer, Andy Maher, Mel McLaughlin, Alister Nicholson, Will Pucovski, Jason Richardson, Lisa Sthalekar and Elyse Villani.

In a huge coup for cricket fans, current Big Bash League stars Sam Billings, Alex Carey, Alana King, Aaron Finch, Chris Green, Moises Henriques and Glenn Maxwell will be regulars on Seven’s coverage.

TROY DODDS

Blake Nikitaras has signed with the Sydney Thunder.

Brad Hodge and Lisa Sthalekar are part of Channel Seven’s BBL coverage.

Inclusivity wins the day as new netball team shines

EMILY FESZCZUK

Afirst-year netball team is proving that the mixture of inclusivity and having fun playing sport can be a winning combination.

The TigerKats Mixed Junior Team from Penrith South Netball Club have been named the Minor Premiers of the 2022 Night Comp and were roaring with pride when they won the Grand Final last week.

Penrith South Netball Club Vice President and Coach Michelle Dawson said the team formed in August in a bid to encourage more young people to enjoy the sport.

“I am on the steering committee for more inclusion in netball for Penrith District Netball Association so we had six girls, three boys, and four of the players had never played before because we wanted to prove that anyone can play sport,” Dawson said.

“Some teams have had one boy play before, but this team had to follow the mixed comp rules as per Netball NSW such as the boys playing in certain positions.”

Playing every Tuesday night, the TigerKats quickly bonded and started doing well.

“The players ranged from nine to 12 and mixed well which was great to see, and they would get out there every week and just give it a go,” she said.

“They are incredibly humble and kind to each other and the other teams, and just focused on having fun and being active while working hard throughout the season which is what it is all about.”

The hard work culminated when they took on the Cambridge Park Netball Club Cygnets during the Grand Final at Jamison Netball Courts.

“There was so much support down there for this little team playing for the first time and they played well winning 34-3,” she said.

“Outcome aside, I was incredibly proud of the team’s sportsmanship and the club culture to enable that. They even helped

pack away the kits at the end and thanked the people who keep score.”

Looking forward to the 2023 season, Dawson said the small club of around 60 members is always looking for new players.

“Our club already has enquiries for people to join a mix competition and there could even be an exclusive boy’s competition one day if the community and association get on board at a club level,” she said.

“This mixed team was an experiment which proved successful, and we always welcome new members who want to give netball a go.”

Anyone interested in joining, can email penrithsouthnc@gmail.com.

Around The Grounds

CRICKET: Penrith were narrowly defeated by Western Suburbs in Round 7 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing at Pratten Park, Western Suburbs won the toss and chose to bowl. In the one-day match, Penrith stepped up to the plate, clocking up an impressive 10/242 after 50 overs. However, Western Suburbs ended up on top on the final ball, resulting in a 5/243 win. Penrith will take on Manly Warringah at Howell Oval this Saturday.

CRICKET: Sunday saw Penrith take a strong win in Round 10 of the Women’s First Grade competition, playing in a one-day match against Bankstown. Playing at Grahame Thomas Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bat. Bankstown were left needing to chase 188 runs, falling short on 10/159. Penrith will face Senior Women Gordon in a T20 match at Beauchamp Oval this Sunday.

CRICKET: Panthers Cricket Club recorded another good first grade win, this time over Phoenix. Batting first Phoenix scored 9/161, and in reply Panthers were able to record a three wicket win to finish at 7/162. The Panthers seventh grade side made it two wins in a row with a four wicket win over Glenbrook-Blaxland. A hat-trick to Mark Dent stood out in an impressive bowling performance, as Glenbrook-Blaxland were dismissed for 10/86. Panthers had a mini collapse early on, but were able to finally score the winning runs to finish at 6/87.

BASEBALL: Despite putting up a good fight, Greater Western fell short in both of their games against Cronulla Sharks in Round 10 of the NSW State Basketball League. Wednesday’s game saw the local

side go down 10-9, followed by a 7-6 loss on Sunday.

AFL: The full fixture for the 2023 Toyota AFL Premiership Season was released earlier this week, with a suite of big games in front of home fans lined up in both Sydney and Canberra for the GWS GIANTS. GIANTS Stadium is set to host big Victorian clubs Carlton, St Kilda, Richmond, Hawthorn and Essendon and cross-town rivals the Swans, while Saturday night football will also be returning to Canberra in the new year.

FOOTBALL: Western Sydney Wanderers were out of luck in both the Women’s and Men’s competitions this week. In Sunday’s game of the Liberty A-League season, Adelaide United bounced back to winning form, grinding their way to a 1-0 win over the Western Sydney Wanderers – marking their third straight win over the Wanderers for the first time in their history. For the men’s side, a late equaliser from Western Sydney Wanderers’ Yeni Ngbakoto cancelled out Bozhidar Kraev’s opener and enabled his side to force a 1-1 draw with Wellington Phoenix at WIN Stadium. The men’s side takes on Western United this Sunday, December 18 at 3pm. The women’s side is up against Brisbane on Saturday, December 17 at 5pm.

GREYHOUND RACING: A 12 race card is due to be run at Richmond Greyhounds in Londonderry tonight, starting at 7.22pm.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email cassidy.pearce@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/westernweekender, or Tweet us @ wwpenrith.

The TigerKats in action in the Grand Final.

The TigerKats from Penrith South Netball Club have won their Grand Final.

US next stop for champs

Florida trip planned for 2023 after Reign Elite’s stunning results at Nationals

it was nice to go away on a trip and have that bonding time as well,” she said.

Athletes from Penrith’s Reign Elite have returned home as champions, having finished Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation (AASCF) Nationals with four bids to The Cheerleading World Championship in Florida next year.

Having competed primarily virtually in the past two years due to COVID, co-owners Kirsten Jude and Tyjana Domars said that being back at the gym was just the push their students needed to get on top of their game.

“In the beginning, the morale of the kids was probably a little bit low, because they were still deflated from COVID,” Ms Jude said.

“Once we got back into the swing of everything, and they got their new uniforms and training gear, then it just expedited into a whole new vibe.”

Over the course of the year, their teams went from strength to strength, beating out the competition at AASCF and CheerCon events all over the state, and earning themselves spots in both AASCF Nationals, and The Australasian Pinnacle.

Both events were held on the Gold Coast over a long weekend, and after not being able to travel with their teams for so long, Ms Domars said she was excited for the bonding opportunities, as well as competing.

“We hadn’t been to Nationals since 2019, so

By the end of the weekend, the gym had clocked up 14 first place wins, eight seconds, Grand Champions for their brand-new Open Level 6 cheer team, Dance Royalty for their jazz team, who performed the second highest scoring jazz routine of the entire competition, and Worlds bids for O6NT, jazz and pom –making them the only gym in the region to attain bids in both cheer and dance.

Four of their teams also qualified for Pinnacle – a selective competition where teams compete only against the best of the best from the season – from which they took home two firsts and a third.

With an additional pom bid from Cheercon earlier in the year, Ms Jude and Ms Domars couldn’t be more excited to be sending their dance teams to Florida in April. Though one of their bids was a partial paid bid, they admit there’s still a lot of work to do before they can get there.

“The first team got their bid in September, so they’ve been doing some fundraising, but now we’re just going to have to brainstorm with the other teams and come up with some fundraisers,” Ms Domars said.

With the competing teams in the open-age division, Ms Jude couldn’t be more excited that many of her athletes will get to end their cheerleading careers on a high.

“They’re pumped, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime

opportunity, and some of them are getting a little old for it and will be coming back to fulltime jobs next year, so it’s now or never,” she said.

“It’s really nice for them to get that and have that accomplishment, and then to be able to move on after achieving that goal they’ve had.”

CASSIDY PEARCE

Athletes from Reign Elite. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Chance buy started a sporting journey

exhibition games in the lead-up to the U18 World Cup.

17-year-old Kyan Wallington is making his baseball dreams a reality, having recently travelled to the United States to compete against the best of the best in the U18 World Cup.

For Kyan, it was a trip to Amart Sport with his Mum at the age of nine that inspired him to first pick up the bat.

“I went into the baseball aisle, and I asked Mum, ‘Can I get that?’, and she said we could only get it if we went straight down to the field for a hit,” he said.

“I did it, and I was alright at it, so she said, ‘Okay, I’ll sign you up!’.”

From there, Kyan admits that baseball became somewhat of an addiction, having fallen in love with the game entirely.

Known best for his batting chops, Kyan has been training hard with his team, Blacktown Workers Club, to make the Australian Training Squad, with which he would travel to the US to compete in tournaments and

Having trialled as a bottom age player, Kyan’s expectations were low – but this only made the shock greater when he was successful in making the team.

“I didn’t expect it at all – I thought we would just go to Canberra, go to the training camp for a bit of experience and then go home and expect nothing after that,” he said.

“I did say to myself though, ‘Why can’t I make it to the next stage? Why can’t I go all the way?’.”

The Training Squad was then cut in half to create the official World Cup squad, from which Kyan was one of only two New South Wales-based players selected.

Though Kyan admits one of his favourite things about America was the low price of Reese’s at Walmart, competing against a much tougher competition on professional fields made the trip one to remember.

“The competition was way harder – you’ve got left-handed pitchers throwing 96mph at not

even the blink of an eye,” he said.

“In our first game against Mexico, we were getting smashed in the first couple of innings, and I brought it back pretty close. We still lost, but it was a cool moment, and I did that twice.”

As for what’s next for the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Senior Sports Star Award recipient, he’ll be heading to New Zealand this Saturday in an attempt to qualify for the World Cup again in Taiwan next year.

“Hopefully we’ll score a bit better in that, go for a bronze medal, silver medal or gold,” he said.

“We want to go for gold, but it would be good if we got any of those medals!”

Nominated by his mother Kelly, Kyan Wallington’s Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Penrith Panthers Leagues Club.

If you or someone you know has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Baseball player Kyan Wallington. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

! Crichton set to depart: Two-time Penrith Premiership winner Stephen Crichton will almost certainly leave the club at the end of next season, with Canterbury set to officially table a mouth-watering offer that can’t be refused. But Penrith fans should actually be pretty happy with the way things will unfold. Keeping Crichton would have meant paying overs, something the club just doesn’t entertain any longer. It trusts its processes and development, more now than ever. ‘Critter’ also has a desire to play fullback, an opportunity that is likely to come quicker at Canterbury. Penrith are resigned to losing the 22-year-old and won’t enter a bidding war with Phil Gould to keep him at the foot of the Mountains.

! To’o secures future: One player going nowhere is winger Brian To’o, who officially signed on the dotted line last Friday and will be at the Panthers until the end of 2027. Final sticking points attached to the deal were ironed out last week. “I’m very grateful and blessed to call Panthers home for the next four years,” To’o said. “I’d like to thank everyone at the club for giving me the opportunity to do what I love. I can’t wait to play for our amazing members and fans, who have shown me nothing but love and support.”

! Wedding of the year: Apart from Jarome Luai’s best man speech, the rest of Brian To’o’s wedding to his beautiful bride Moesha was nothing short of spectacular. Forget any Royal wedding you may have seen over the years, this really did take the cake – and looked like it was a heap of fun.

an To’o’s wedding last week was in poor taste, no question, and he’s since apologised. Luai is a tremendous footballer and a great character. Those who know him also know he’s a terrific person. But reputation can be everything in rugby league and Luai’s is not in a good place at present.

! Vegas bound: Penrith co-captain Nathan Cleary has seen plenty of airports in the last few months. He was only back in Sydney for a few days after the World Cup and a quick Eu ropean holiday before he was back on a plane again, this time for a quick trip to Las Vegas to watch the UFC.

! Poor timing: Panthers members were given less than five minutes’ notice that tickets were on sale for the World Club Challenge. The pre-sale began at 10am last Thursday. Members started getting the pre-sale email at 9.55am.

! Christmas rush: The club is experiencing some unexpected delays in 2023 Members Packs arriving to those who signed up for next season. It’s now in a race against time to fulfil a promise to have them delivered before Christ mas to those who secured their membership before the advertised deadline.

! What a bargain: Looking for a last minute Christmas gift for a Penrith fan, or perhaps yourself? League and Legends out at Windsor currently has 2022 Premiership tees on sale for just $25. That’s more than 60 per cent off the ‘trophy’ shirt (pictured) and 50 per cent off the ‘Back to Back’ shirt. You can shop in store or online at www.leagueandleg ends.com.au.

!

best man speech at Bri-

Tough chat needed: It’s become clear that someone at Penrith needs to have a difficult conversation with Jarome Luai (pictured). Much of the criticism of Luai in the last few years is unfair, but that doesn’t make him a protected species. His

Sydney becomes home of football

TROY DODDS

The Western Sydney Wanderers may score a major advantage by hosting an A-League Grand Final, but their vocal active supporter group isn’t celebrating.

A major deal was announced on Monday that will see Sydney host the A-League Men’s and Women’s Grand Finals, as well as the E-League Grand Final, for the next three years. Venues haven’t been locked in but Parramatta’s CommBank Stadium, the Wanderers’ home ground, is certainly in the running and hosted Monday’s announcement.

APL CEO Danny Townsend said it was a positive announcement, moving on from Grand Finals being hosted in different cities depending on the teams participating.

“Football fans now get the best of both worlds – they can now look forward to a showpiece Grand Final event in a set location, as well as watching A-Leagues and national team stars week-in-week-out at their local A-Leagues team,” he said.

“This is a unique opportunity to

build a tradition for football fans.

When you think about a cup final in England, you think about the trip to Wembley, and we want fans in Australia to look forward to the A-Leagues finals in the same way.

“We have already broken the previous record for attendance this

season in the Liberty A-League Women and have set an objective to make history again with Grand Final attendance in the year that we host the FIFA Women’s World Cup.” NSW Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the addition of the A-Leagues Grand Finals to Sydney’s

annual sporting events calendar would have significant benefits for NSW.

“As the nation’s home of football I am delighted to be partnering with the APL to bring the Men’s and Women’s A-Leagues Grand Finals to Sydney,” Mr Franklin said.

“Sydney is renowned for hosting world-class sporting events and we are going to create a new tradition for Australian football fans, making the Grand Finals a week-long extravaganza that showcases football and the best of the Harbour City.” But not everyone is happy about the move, with Wanderers active supporter group the Red & Black Bloc (RBB) demanding the decision be reversed.

“We are completely against the decision for Sydney to host the next three Grand Finals,” it said in a statement.

“This once again demonstrates the lack of fan consultation. It was a decision to chase $$$ regardless of the integrity of the competition. A home Grand Final is the reward for the effort throughout the season. Earning the right to host the final was our tradition. We don’t need to copy the other codes. For this to be taken away with little consideration shows a lack of understanding.”

The A-League Women’s Grand Final is scheduled for April 30, while the E-League Grand Final is on May 27 and the Men’s Grand Final is on June 3.

Baseball star on the rise – see page 70

Players, politicians and officials at Monday’s announcement at CommBank Stadium. Photo: Melinda Jane.