Western Weekender October 18

WW38932

weekender the western Friday, October 18, 2019 • FREE

PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

www.westernweekender.com.au

WESTERN LINE TRAIN SERVICES FAIL TO MEET ON-TIME RUNNING TARGETS

OFF THE TRACKS

Transport Minister Andrew Constance is facing questions over the reliability of trains

It’s been nearly two years since Transport Minister Andrew Constance introduced the “timetable that Sydney needed” but for western Sydney train commuters, the headache continues to worsen with poor on-time running, delays and growing frustrations.

Monday presented a familiar challenge for commuters with extensive delays during the afternoon peak, caused by signal problems at Werrington and Milsons Point.

As a result, many Western Line services were either delayed or cancelled as the network tried in vain to recover.

It comes as figures reveal that the monthly on- time running targets for Western Line

services during peak periods haven’t been met once this year.

Despite issuing five separate transportrelated media releases in the past week, including excitedly announcing extra services for the T5 Cumberland line, Mr Constance wasn’t keen on addressing the Western Line reliability issues when contacted by the Weekender this week.

Instead, he handballed the issue to Sydney Trains, which said an “increase in services and longer dwell times” had impacted peak punctuality.

Shadow Minister for Transport, Chris Minns, said the reliability figures were appalling, claiming there has been a lack of focus and investment in the rail network.

Story continues on page 6

ADVERTISEMENT

KITCHENS & JOINERY Unit 1/70 Mulgoa Road, Penrith VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Specialising in custom-built kitchens tailored to suit your every-day needs at competitive prices.

Phone now for a free measure & quote WW38885

NICOLA BARTON

4721 1500

www.rositanokitchens.com.au Lic No. 102962C

WW37396

2

WW39037

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Exclusive: Strained relationship between Councillors and Council officers revealed

F

rustrated Penrith Councillors have broken ranks and provided a damning assessment of Council officers, claiming certain managers see them as an “inconvenience of democracy”.

Councillor Mark Davies suggested Council officers are just not listening to Councillors’ concerns, or worse, simply disregarding what they have to say.

He cited a situation in December last year when he sought more information on shade structures for the city’s parks as an example. Despite Council touting its commitment to cooling the city, Cr Davies’ formal request for a shade policy fell on deaf ears for months.

After chasing it up multiple times without success, he finally got traction by involving the General Manager.

“The impression I get is that they don’t even want to do it,” he said.

“It’s terrible. These policies are the sorts of things that don’t exist and it’s taken eight months to even get to a briefing.”

Cr Davies said he is speaking out in the hope the culture will change.

“If they are not going to take it seriously, and we’re the elected people to make representations at the end of the day, if

they are going to treat me like this then I think the community has a right to know,” he said.

Fellow Councillor Kevin Crameri has also previously taken Council officers to task publicly over extensive delays, but was careful not to tar them all with the same brush.

He said while some Council officers “bend over backwards” to help, others will push ahead with their own agenda even if it went against Councillors’ views.

“Councillors I believe are the bosses, and if they ask for something, Council officers should work on that,” he said.

“They shouldn’t set their own priorities, they should work to our priorities.”

In a lengthy statement, Council failed to acknowledge it had dropped the ball, rather it defended its position, saying Council staff treat all requests from Councillors and members of the public “seriously and in a timely fashion”.

It said of the 477 Councillor/MP requests received between April 1 and September 30 this year, 51 per cent were finalised within two weeks and 82 per cent within four weeks.

“As at October 14, 26 requests are awaiting an initial response, 24 of which were only received by Council in September,” it read.

Councillor Mark Davies is concerned over the response times of Council officers

WW38933

ALENA HIGGINS

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Councillors vent concern

3

Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255 www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith westernweekender Issue 1424

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Journalist: Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Journalist: Nicola Barton | @nicolabarton123 Journalist: Emily Feszczuk | @emilyfeszczuk Photographer: Megan Dunn If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Kate Shaw, Kendall Clarkson, Jay Lowe To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Ian Beard, Claire Catacouzinos, Bonita Vasquez

Administration: Sarah Coates, Jennifer Zuleni

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

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

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Email bungle exposes scripted pollies At 7.13am on Monday an email from the Prime Minister’s Office landed in the inboxes of journalists right across the country.

That’s not unusual, except this email wasn’t a head’s up that Scott Morrison was about to go toe- to- toe with Alan Jones on 2GB, or don a hard hat and head to a factory that showcases the ‘backbone of Australia’.

It wasn’t a transcript of a press conference from yesterday that reminded you of why a morning coffee was needed, or a press release talking up a re-announced policy.

No, this email was never intended to find its way to journalists, at least not in the format it was delivered.

Instead, the 8,203 word email was intended to be sent to ministers and staffers – a Hollywood- style script designed to ensure everyone stayed ‘on message’ when dealing with the media throughout the day.

Everything from the drought to immigration, banks, welfare and Gladys Lui was covered, on one hand showcasing the wide range of topics the government deals with on any given day, and on the other showing how our politicians are scripted sheep who proudly toe-the-line.

I’m not sure what happens if you go off script, but I can only presume you line up at the end of the day, bend over and accept your whipping.

Nobody should really be surprised that this stuff happens, although I’m sure the length and detail involved in the briefing raised a few eyebrows. It is a shame however that we’ve reached such a point where we need to script almost every

word that comes out of the mouths of our politicians, almost robbing them of personal opinion, empathy or legitimate conversation.

Perhaps it is no real surprise, however.

After all, we have become so soft and sensitive that the outrage brigade would likely be offended should there be a move outside the accepted lines.

Case in point, last week Scott Morrison was in Fiji where he ran the water for the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII rugby league team and was spotted chugging a beer in the stands.

The snowflakes were disgusted, and the boring ‘we need content so we’ll run anything’ media jumped on board.

We say we want our politicians to be more real and less scripted, yet when we get it, we demand them to be less real and more scripted.

Is it any wonder 8,203- word briefing documents are sent out so regularly?

NRL scandal that probably isn’t Newspaper editors and TV producers were spotted frothing at the mouth

Index

earlier this week when footage emerged of Melbourne Storm player Nelson AsofaSolomona in a ‘brawl’ on the streets of Bali. Rugby league had delivered its first scandal of the off- season, less than two weeks from its grandest day.

Truth is there’s probably not all that much to this story, when the context is provided. While the investigation is ongoing, it appears Asofa- Solomona was reacting to his team- mate Sulisai Vunivalu being king- hit. He could have reacted in a better way, sure, but to suggest he was a Neanderthal rugby league player bashing people up on the streets was unfair and incorrect.

The powers that be at the NRL will react to the media beat-up, however, and will likely impose a suspension and fine on the Storm forward rather than bring more attention to the fact that rugby league players are being consistently targeted by ‘fans’ when out and about, often resulting in unsavoury incidents.

If only the NRL had some guts, it may call the real problem out instead of throwing one of its own under the bus.

VAR’s threat to A-League The A-League is currently experiencing a dose of the NRL’s medicine when it comes to video technology.

Rather than get rid of the ‘howler’, video reviews are now being used to judge the smallest of issues.

I think Fox Sports commentator Simon Hill summed it up best this week when he said: “Part of the emotion of football is that it’s full of imperfection.�

The use of video tech in sport is a good thing overall, but it should only be used to correct the glaringly obvious errors.

Weekender Living.........51-56 Business Directory......57-60 Auto...........................................61-62

$25

Sport ........................................63-67 Speedway Feature........68-71 Sport.................................................72

Phone Matt:

S P A• S E R V I C E S

0407 700 981

For all your spa service needs • Spa Filters • Chemicals • Spa Heaters

™

• Maintenance • Friendly Advice • Service & Repair WW39221

Whether at school, home, the e workplace or travelling we all have the right to feel and be safe. Psalms 91 tells us that when we turn to God ZH ³FDQ ¿QG VDIHW\ XQGHU KLV ZLQJV´ DQG WKDW ZH ³VKDOO QRW IHDU´ 0DU\ %DNHU (GG\ WKH DXWKRU RI 6FLHQFH DQG +HDOWK ZLWK .H\ WR WKH 6FULSWXUHV IRXQG WKLV WR EH WUXH LQ KHU OLIH 6KH ZURWH ³&ODG LQ WKH SDQRSO\ RI /RYH KXPDQ KDWUHG FDQ QRW UHDFK \RX (p.494)).

“I can only presume you line up at the end of the day, bend over and accept your whipping�

News..............................................1-32 Business.................................33-36 Entertainment .................37-50

Staying Safe

4

@troydodds

Scripts, scandals and the VAR

ÂŽ

Solutions

&KULVWLDQ 6FLHQFH 5HDGLQJ 5RRP :RRGULII 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 3KRQH 0RUH LQIRUPDWLRQ FKULVWLDQVFLHQFH FRP

WW36202

Friday, October 18, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

the western weekender

• Electronic Control Panels • Spa Pumps, Air & Water Jets / Blowers

Email: platinumspaservice@gmail.com

www.platinumspaservices.com.au

Residents hope to catch thieves green-handed: String of bizarre garden robberies NICOLA BARTON

H

omes across a number of suburbs in the Penrith region have fallen victim to the latest string of bizarre crime – plant thefts.

From small shrubs to medium sized trees and hedges, residents have been equally shocked and furious to find their gardens vandalised.

Plants both in- ground and pots have been targeted.

Waterside Estate resident Silvia Perri has only recently moved to the area but her newly planted stalks of Mother in Laws Tongue have already been stolen.

Lining the fence in her front courtyard, she was shocked to find the plants missing when leaving her home last month.

“I couldn’t help but be flabbergasted, before laughing. I couldn’t believe someone would go to that sort of trouble to obtain plants,” she said.

“I thought it could’ve been kids just mucking around, until I posted on the community Facebook group and found out the same thing had happened to a few others in the estate on the same night.

“My only other thought is that someone needed to do their own landscaping and decided stealing was easier than buying.

Dominic Zammit had an olive tree stolen from his property. Photo: Megan Dunn

ROLLER ROLLER SHUTTERS SHUTTERS

“I think they would have come prepared with tools and equipment to be able to dig and transport all of the plants.”

But it’s not just Waterside that has been targeted, with residents in Glenmore Park, Caddens, Penrith and Kingswood also reporting similar incidents of plants and trees being swiped.

Glenmore Park resident Dominic Zammit recently had a seven- foot- tall olive tree stolen from his property.

“I came out and had a look and thought something’s missing and then I realised the plant was gone,” he said.

“It would be easily 60kg or 70kg, with the pot and soil, you couldn’t get that into a car, it would have to be a trailer or ute.

“Surely if it’s vandalism you’d find it down the road somewhere, you’ve got to think why and all I can think is it’s someone trying to save money.

“But it’s not just the money for me, it’s the thought of somebody being at my place and taking something, that’s what annoys me.”

A spokesperson from Penrith City Council confirmed they too have been a victim of plant theft and vandalism on councilowned parks and greenspace over time.

It’s understood a Dendrobium Orchid was also stolen from a property on Tindale Street in Penrith last week.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Locals digging for clues

WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE, QUALITY OR SERVICE FULLY LICENSED & INSURED FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND

DEAL DIRECT WITH THE MANUFACTURER & SAVE! THGE ER N SBPEARTICW NLT EF IAI TO O P D S L O C UP

SAVE

% 0 5

OFckF,

d stolast lecte on seile stocks wh

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS AS YOUR LOCAL BUILDER

FREE MEASURE & QUOTE HIGH QUALITY ROLLER SHUTTERS YOU CAN AFFORD ENGINEERED TO PERFORM, DESIGNED TO IMPRESS & BUILT TO LAST ROLLER SHUTTERS HELP OFFER PROTECTION AGAINST…

• INTRUDERS & VANDALS • THE HEAT OF SUMMER

• LIGHT CONTROL • NOISE REDUCTION

• STORM PROTECTION • THE COLD OF WINTER

Phone today and see the ALLGUARD difference

1300 884 260 www.allguard.net.au ABN 68 003 685 112

Contractors Lic. No. 28640C

HIA M/NO 382542

WW37931

SPAAL M/L No 408199447

Fun for the whole family • Sausage Sizzle • Coffee Truck • Face Painting • Giveaways / door prizes When: Saturday 19th October 2019: 10am- pm Where: 125 Batt Street, Jamisontown Hot Offers on New Builds for the Month of October • Product up to $10,000 or Rent Relief up to $10,000 – your choice!

• Spring Into Action and Unlock the Equity in Your Home ….thanks to our highly recognised and reputable suppliers we have an amazing range of giveaways on the day. If you are thinking of building it’s time to Spring into action….

Ph: 0403 723 486 hotondo.com.au

WW37736

5

But Sydney Trains says it is providing “more frequent services and choice” Continued from front page “This is yet another appalling example of the lack of investment and focus on the existing rail network,” Mr Minns said.

“The government cannot simply neglect those who rely on this important transport infrastructure.

“It simply does not meet the definition of functioning public transport to have a service that is late or does not arrive 20 per cent of the time.”

Transport for NSW’s publicly available train performance data shows that the on-time running target of 92 per cent has not been met once between July 2018 and October this year.

The average on-time running percentage during that period, excluding the current month, is 86.32 per cent with the lowest being 80.3 per cent in November last year and the highest being 90.7 per cent in September last year.

These figures only worsen when PM peak times are exclusively selected.

Some factors that impact a train’s performance times include sick passengers, fatalities, delays, weather conditions, mechanical problems and anti- social behaviour.

During these delays, timetable changes do occur, some skipping scheduled stops

Penrith train commuters continue to deal with regular delays on the T1 Western Line to help minimise the delay on services of which the majority rely on.

A spokesperson from Sydney Trains said there had been a massive increase in services stopping at Penrith, which contributed to punctuality targets not being met.

“The T1 Western Line is one of the busiest on the Sydney Trains network. Since November 2017, we have added hundreds of extra services to western Sydney, including a 20 per cent increase in trains

ANG AN NG53 536 5 36 3 61

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Trains fail to meet targets

stopping at Penrith,” the spokesperson said.

“The increase in services and longer dwell times has impacted peak punctuality, however we are providing more frequent services and choice to customers than ever.

“Future stages of the More Trains, More Services Program will also address the need to add extra services on lines where demand continues to grow, like the T1 Western Line.”

A commuter caught in the latest afternoon of chaos on Monday opted to delay her trip home due to safety concerns.

“I’ve actually been forced to make the decision to hang around in the city until I can get on a train and still be able to breathe,” Kristina Wilson said on Twitter.

“It’s not like I want to go home or anything! The amount of people on the last Penrith service was so unsafe!”

Performance data can be viewed on the Sydney Trains website.

Restaurant closed following early morning blaze in CBD NICOLA BARTON

1 BED UNITS AVAILABLE

Retire in Penrith for $183,000 Take a look at our newly-refurbished spacious North-facing cottage-style units featuring open-plan living and dining area, new kitchen and bathroom, and your own garden with easy access to tranquil open spaces.

• BBQ area, community centre • Varied activities and social groups • Close to shops, restaurants and public transport • Residential care onsite (eligibility applies)

Call 1300 111 278 for an appointment

Lemongrove Gardens anglicare.org.au

6

WW38918

F

ire crews extinguished a blaze at popular Henry Street eatery, The Village, on Wednesday, after a gas bottle caught alight.

About 4.30am firefighters were called to the restaurant, formerly known as King Henry’s Court, after reports of a fire.

Crews were faced with numerous LPG cylinders alight at the rear of the building, which were directly impinging on the premises.

Eight fire crews were in attendance, attacking the fire from the front and rear of the building.

“A rapid attack on the fire from numerous crews saw it quickly extinguished, however, the building sustained extensive damage,” Fire and Rescue NSW Station 077 St Marys said in a statement.

Thankfully, no one was injured and neighbouring businesses were not affected.

“The Village will be closed until further notice,” owner Luke Deeb said.

“Product of Italy is unaffected and will open as normal.”

Mr Deeb said the fire was contained to only the kitchen.

Police will now investigate the cause of the fire.

Mr Deeb said he will have tradesmen in to fix the space as soon as possible.

The aftermath of the fire

Police at the scene on Wednesday

From humble beginnings, this local business has become a major success story EMILY FESZCZUK

L

ike many small businesses, Purrfect Pet Products started in a garage with just far away dreams and a whole lot of hope.

Now the Penrith-based business is flourishing, and much of the credit is going to the State Government’s Business Connect program, which helped the operation get off the ground.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope visited the business last Friday, celebrating the success of the Business Connect program, which began in January 2017 and has created about 15,000 new jobs.

“Business Connect is a service that gives multifaceted advice to people with an idea to expand their business and tell them about potential pitfalls with the help of 80 independent advisors across the state,” Mr Tudehope said.

“The advice can range from the best location to have your business and also training for things you need to deliver such as accountancy, HR and health and safety.”

Purrfect Pet Products General Manager Daniel Romerio started making cat scratching poles in a garage in 2006. He

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Scratching up a winner

Business owner Daniel Romerio, Small Business Minister Damien Tudehope and advisor Michelle Locke. Photo: Megan Dunn now has the only certified cat scratching pole business in Australia and said he would strongly advise other small businesses to tap into the support network.

“Our business advisor, Michelle, has given me advice and helped me with planning. She has made the right decisions before I could even make the wrong one while giving me clarification and helping

me connect with other businesses,” Mr Romerio said.

“We now supply 35 pallets of products each week to 270 retailers across the nation and donate to the RSPCA. We are needing to hire between 10 and 20 more staff and find a manufacturing factory in Penrith to double our space.”

Western Sydney Business Centre Advi-

sor, Michelle Locke, said it is great to see the progress made from the program.

“When I took over Daniel’s case there was a lot of issues to work through with structure, policies, bookkeeping and finances,” she said.

“We put in a plan to work through that, now we are at the next stage where he needs a bigger factory size and more staff.”

Lower Mountains AIR CONDITIONING

4735 6411

DIAMOND DEALER

SPLIT SYSTEMS

Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW 2. 5k W 3.5kW 3. 5k W 5kW 5k W 7kW 7k W 8kW 8k W

$1790 $1980 $2410 $2790 $3240

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

SPLIT SYSTEMS

Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW 2. 5k W 3.5kW 3. 5k W 5kW 5k W 7kW 7k W 8kW 8k W

$1650 $1830 $2210 $2560 $3070

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

HEATING AND COOLING SPECIALISTS WW38657

7

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

PENRITH

NEWS CONTACT US ADMINISTRATION 3HQULWK 2IÀFH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 2SHQLQJ +RXUV DP² SP 0RQ²)UL 6W 0DU\V 2IÀFH 4XHHQ 6WUHHW &HQWUH ² 4XHHQ 6WUHHW 2SHQLQJ +RXUV DP² SP ² SP 0RQ²)UL &RQWDFW &HQWUH 2SHQ DP² SP 0RQ²)UL 3 ) :ULWH WR 32 %R[ 3HQULWK 16:

COUNCIL’S DRAFT LOCAL STRATEGIC PLANNING STATEMENT (LSPS) IS NOW ON PUBLIC EXHIBITION We welcome you to view the report and provide your feedback.

Online at penrith.city/LSPS, in person at an exhibition display or come to a drop-in session.

Comments close 11 November. penrith.city/LSPS

TENDERS

COUNCIL BRIEFS ● 5HDO )HVWLYDO WDNHV HQWHUWDLQPHQW WR GD]]OLQJ QHZ KHLJKWV IURP ² 1RYHPEHU (QMR\ VSHOOELQGLQJ VWDJH VKRZV EUHDWKWDNLQJ DUW LQVWDOODWLRQV DQG SRS XS SHUIRUPDQFHV DORQJ WKH ULYHUEDQN $QG GRQ·W PLVV WKH KHDGOLQH SHUIRUPDQFH ¶$OO 7KDW :H $UH· D EUHDWKWDNLQJ DHULDO VSHFWDFXODU DQG LQWHUQDWLRQDO SURGXFWLRQ SHUIRUPHG RYHU ODQG DQG ZDWHU RQ ERWK QLJKWV 7KHUH·V DOVR OLYH PXVLF LOOXPLQDWHG DUW DQG KLODULRXV VWDJH VKRZV IRU NLGV WR HQMR\

( FRXQFLO#SHQULWK FLW\

*UDE \RXU IULHQGV DQG IDPLO\ DQG KHDG WR WKH 1HSHDQ 5LYHU IRU D ZHHNHQG RI XQIRUJHWWDEOH HQWHUWDLQPHQW ,W·V DOO IRU IUHH

SERVICES

+HDG WR realfestival.com.au WR YLHZ WKH IXOO SURJUDP

:DVWH +RWOLQH )UHHFDOO

● 2Q DYHUDJH HDFK \HDU FKLOGUHQ GURZQ DQG DQRWKHU VXIIHU VHULRXV QHDU GURZQLQJ LQFLGHQWV

,OOHJDO 'XPSLQJ &RQWDFW WKH (3$ KRWOLQH RQ DQG DVN IRU WKH 5,' 6TXDG 5HJLRQDO ,OOHJDO 'XPSLQJ 6TXDG

3RUWDEOH DQG LQÁDWDEOH SRROV KDYH WKH VDPH GURZQLQJ ULVN DV SHUPDQHQW SRROV LQ IDFW RQH LQ ÀYH RI WKH VZLPPLQJ SRROV LQ ZKLFK FKLOGUHQ GURZQHG EHWZHHQ DQG ZDV SRUWDEOH

*UDIÀWL +RWOLQH )UHHFDOO

7R KHOS SUHYHQW FKLOG GURZQLQJ

MEETING DATES &RXQFLO 0HHWLQJV

2FWREHU ² SP 3ROLF\ 5HYLHZ &RPPLWWHH

• +DYH D FRPSOLDQW SRRO EDUULHU WKDW LV XVHG FRUUHFWO\ DQG PDLQWDLQHG UHJXODUO\ • $Q DGXOW VKRXOG EH ZLWKLQ DUP·V UHDFK RI VZLPPLQJ FKLOGUHQ • 7HDFK FKLOGUHQ ZDWHU IDPLOLDULVDWLRQ DQG VZLPPLQJ VNLOOV

2FWREHU ² SP 2UGLQDU\ 0HHWLQJ

• /HDUQ &35 5HPHPEHU WKDW DQ\ DWWHPSW LV EHWWHU WKDQ QRQH DW DOO

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

)RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ RQ VDIHW\ UHTXLUHPHQWV YLVLW RXU SRRO VDIHW\ SDJH DW penrith.city RU FDOO &RXQFLO RQ ● $UH \RX FRPLQJ WR RXU IUHH *UDQGSDUHQWV 'D\ IDPLO\ HYHQW" 6XQGD\ 2FWREHU EHWZHHQ DP DQG SP DW 3DUNHU 6WUHHW 5HVHUYH LQ 3HQULWK LV QRW D GD\ \RX ZDQW WR PLVV &HOHEUDWH \RXU JUDQGSDUHQWV DQG WKH ROGHU SHRSOH LQ RXU FRPPXQLW\ ZLWK D VSHFLDO GD\ GHGLFDWHG WR WKHP 7KHUH·V QR RQH TXLWH DV VSHFLDO DV DQ ROGHU LQVSLUDWLRQDO SHUVRQ LQ \RXU FRPPXQLW\ D JUDQGSDUHQW JUDQG IULHQG RU VWHS JUDQGSDUHQW -RLQ XV IRU D IXQ GD\ ZLWK D MXPSLQJ FDVWOH ELOO\ FDUW UDFHV DUWV DQG FUDIWV D IUHH %%4 OXQFK DQG PRUH )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW WKH GD\ YLVLW penrith.city/events

8

Design Services for City Park Reference RFT19/20-22 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO LV VHHNLQJ 7HQGHUV IURP VXLWDEO\ H[SHULHQFHG FRQVXOWDQF\ DV D SULQFLSDO FRQVXOWDQW IRU WKH SURYLVLRQ RI VHUYLFHV UHTXLUHG IRU WKH GHWDLOHG ODQGVFDSH DUFKLWHFW XUEDQ DQG FLYLO GHVLJQ IRU WKH &LW\ 3DUN ORFDWHG DW WKH FRUQHU RI 6WDWLRQ DQG +HQU\ 6WUHHWV 3HQULWK 6LWH YLVLW DP RQ 2FWREHU 9LVLW penrith.city/tenders WR UHJLVWHU DQG GRZQORDG WHQGHU GRFXPHQWV IUHH RI FKDUJH $OWHUQDWLYHO\ D KDUG FRS\ LV DYDLODEOH IRU D QRQ UHIXQGDEOH IHH RI LQF *67

E\ DUUDQJHPHQW )RU TXHULHV SOHDVH FRQWDFW /DXUD 6WRWW RQ RU procurement@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au $OO VXEPLVVLRQV VKRXOG EH ORGJHG RQ WKH IRUPV SURYLGHG LQ DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK WKH ORGJHPHQW LQVWUXFWLRQV FRQWDLQHG LQ WKH GRFXPHQWV QR ODWHU WKDQ DP RQ :HGQHVGD\ 1RYHPEHU ¶WKH &ORVLQJ 'DWH· 7HQGHUV UHFHLYHG DIWHU ZLOO QRW EH FRQVLGHUHG

Design Services for Depot Redevelopment Reference RFT19/20-20 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO LV VHHNLQJ 7HQGHUV IURP VXLWDEO\ H[SHULHQFHG FRQWUDFWRUV DV D SULQFLSDO FRQVXOWDQW IRU WKH GHVLJQ RI WKH UHGHYHORSPHQW RI WKH .LQJVZRRG GHSRW 6LWH YLVLW DP RQ 2FWREHU 9LVLW penrith.city/tenders WR UHJLVWHU DQG GRZQORDG WHQGHU GRFXPHQWV IUHH RI FKDUJH $OWHUQDWLYHO\ D KDUG FRS\ LV DYDLODEOH IRU D QRQ UHIXQGDEOH IHH RI LQF *67 E\ DUUDQJHPHQW )RU TXHULHV SOHDVH FRQWDFW $OO\FH /DQJWRQ RQ RU procurement@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au $OO VXEPLVVLRQV VKRXOG EH ORGJHG RQ WKH IRUPV SURYLGHG LQ DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK WKH ORGJHPHQW LQVWUXFWLRQV FRQWDLQHG LQ WKH GRFXPHQWV QR ODWHU WKDQ DP RQ :HGQHVGD\ 1RYHPEHU ¶WKH &ORVLQJ 'DWH· 7HQGHUV UHFHLYHG DIWHU ZLOO QRW EH FRQVLGHUHG

facebook.com/penrith.city.council

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

visitpenrith.com.au WW39192

Real Festival 2019 fireworks displays $V SDUW RI 5HDO )HVWLYDO ÀUHZRUNV GLVSOD\V ZLOO EH FRQGXFWHG E\ +RZDUG 6RQ·V 3\URWHFKQLFV 'LVSOD\V 3W\ /WG 7KH SHUIRUPDQFHV ZLOO EH KHOG RQ WKH HYHQLQJV RI )ULGD\ 1RYHPEHU DQG 6DWXUGD\ 1RYHPEHU RQ WKH ZHVWHUQ EDQN RI WKH 1HSHDQ 5LYHU 5LYHU 5RDG /HRQD\ 6KRXOG \RX KDYH DQ\ TXHVWLRQV SOHDVH FRQWDFW &RXQFLO RQ

Public Meeting of Penrith Local Planning Panel 7KH 3HQULWK /RFDO 3ODQQLQJ 3DQHO ZLOO PHHW WR GHWHUPLQH WKH IROORZLQJ • '$

:H ZDQW WR PDNH LW HDVLHU IRU UHVLGHQWV WR JHW

)DFW VKHHWV DQG JXLGDQFH RQ KRZ WR PDNH D

UHOHYDQW LQIRUPDWLRQ DQG WR KDYH WKHLU VD\

VXEPLVVLRQ DUH DOVR DYDLODEOH DW WKRVH VLWHV

2XU GUDIW 6WUDWHJ\ FDQ EH YLHZHG RQOLQH DW

<RX DUH LQYLWHG WR UHYLHZ DQG FRPPHQW RQ WKH

yoursaypenrith.com.au RU LQ SHUVRQ DW WKH 3HQULWK &LYLF &HQWUH 6W 0DU\V %XVLQHVV 2IÀFH RU DQ\ 3HQULWK &LW\ OLEUDU\ EUDQFK 7HOO XV KRZ \RX SUHIHU WR EH LQYROYHG LQ WKH GHFLVLRQV ZH PDNH WKDW LPSDFW \RX E\ • 2QOLQH VXUYH\ DW yoursaypenrith.com.au;

RU OLEUDU\ EUDQFK

• /HWWHU WR WKH *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU $WWHQWLRQ &RUSRUDWH 3ODQQLQJ 3HQULWK &RXQFLO 32 %R[ 3HQULWK 7R PDNH VXUH &RXQFLO JHWV WKH FKDQFH WR FRQVLGHU

'HPROLWLRQ RI H[LVWLQJ VWUXFWXUHV DQG FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI D VWRUH\ SODFH FKLOGFDUH FHQWUH ZLWK SDUNLQJ IRU FDUV

SOHDVH KDYH \RXU VD\ EHIRUH WKH H[KLELWLRQ SHULRG

5HFRQVWUXFWLRQ RI D SDUW RI WKH ERXQGDU\ IHQFH • '$ 29–31 Castlereagh Street, Penrith &RQVWUXFWLRQ RI VWRUH\ UHVLGHQWLDO ÁDW EXLOGLQJ FRQWDLQLQJ DSDUWPHQWV DQG OHYHOV RI EDVHPHQW FDU SDUNLQJ • '$ 65–73 Dunheved Circuit, St Marys 'HPROLWLRQ RI H[LVWLQJ VWUXFWXUHV DQG FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI DWWDFKHG ZDUHKRXVHV DQG DVVRFLDWHG ZRUNV

PDNLQJ D ZULWWHQ VXEPLVVLRQ EHIRUH )ULGD\ 2FWREHU &RXQFLO RIÀFHUV ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH WR DQVZHU TXHVWLRQV RQ WKH 3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO GXULQJ EXVLQHVV $OWHUQDWLYHO\ SOHDVH FRQWDFW 1DWDOLH 6WDQRZVNL RQ RU DW natalie.stanowski@penrith.city

• (PDLO WR corporate.planning@penrith.city; or

\RXU FRPPHQWV EHIRUH ÀQDOLVLQJ WKH 6WUDWHJ\

Lewers Art Galley, 84–88 River Road, Emu Plains

SURSRVHG FKDQJHV WR WKH SODQQLQJ FRQWUROV E\

KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH 0RQGD\²)ULGD\

• 3ULQWHG VXUYH\ DYDLODEOH DW DQ\ &RXQFLO RIÀFH

49 Gibbes Street, Regentville

• '$

HQGV DW SP RQ 0RQGD\ 1RYHPEHU +HOS XV EHWWHU XQGHUVWDQG KRZ \RX SUHIHU WR EH LQYROYHG VR \RX FDQ LQÁXHQFH \RXU ORFDO DQG ZLGHU FRPPXQLWLHV )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ YLVLW yoursaypenrith.com.au/ LQÁXHQFH

Planning Proposal for 33–43 Phillip Street, St Marys 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO ZDQWV WR KHDU \RXU YLHZV RQ D

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED 3XUVXDQW WR 6HFWLRQ RI WKH Environmental Planning & Assessment Act WKH VFKHGXOH EHORZ OLVWV DSSOLFDWLRQV UHFHQWO\ GHWHUPLQHG E\ 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO 'HWDLOV RI WKHVH GHWHUPLQDWLRQV DUH DYDLODEOH IRU SXEOLF LQVSHFWLRQ IUHH RI FKDUJH GXULQJ &RXQFLO·V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK

Approved Development Applications • , 'HVLJQ +RXVHV

'$

3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO WKDW UHFRPPHQGV FKDQJHV WR WKH

Lot 12 Sec B DP 1452 (No. 235) Park Road,

SODQQLQJ FRQWUROV DSSO\LQJ WR ² 3KLOOLS 6WUHHW

Wallacia

6W 0DU\V /RW '3 7KLV VLWH LV RSSRVLWH

5HPHGLDWLRQ RI FRQWDPLQDWHG ODQG DQG

WKH WUDLQ DQG EXV VWDWLRQ DQG LV DOVR NQRZQ DV

FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI D VWRUH\ GHWDFKHG GXDO

6WDWLRQ 3OD]D 7KH 3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO VHHNV WR PDNH FKDQJHV WR WKH SODQQLQJ FRQWUROV LQ WKH /(3 E\ LQFUHDVLQJ

RFFXSDQF\ ZLWK DVVRFLDWHG RQ VLWH VHZDJH PDQDJHPHQW V\VWHP • 3DXO /HPP 3ODQQLQJ &RQVXOWDQW

'$

When: : HGQHVGD\ 2FWREHU FRPPHQFLQJ DW SP

WKH PD[LPXP EXLOGLQJ KHLJKW IURP PHWUHV WR PHWUHV DQG LQFUHDVLQJ WKH ÁRRU VSDFH UDWLR IRU

Lot 2 DP 1169433 (Nos. 85–88) Galaxy Road,

Where: 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO 3DVVDGHQD 5RRP )LUVW )ORRU +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK

WKH VLWH IURP WR

Luddenham

7KH FXUUHQW RZQHU RI WKH VLWH KDV DSSOLHG IRU LWV

5HWURVSHFWLYH DSSURYDO RI H[LVWLQJ KRUVH WURWWLQJ

5HOHYDQW GRFXPHQWV ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH RQ 3HQULWK &RXQFLO·V ZHEVLWH penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ Local-Planning-Panel/

UH]RQLQJ WR DOORZ WKHP WR UHGHYHORS WKH VKRSSLQJ

WUDFN FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI VHGLPHQW WUDSV

FHQWUH LQWR D QHZ PL[HG XVH GHYHORSPHQW XS WR

HPEDQNPHQW VWDELOLVDWLRQ DQG VWRUPZDWHU ZRUNV

VWRUH\V KLJK DQG FRQWDLQLQJ

DQG FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI KRUVH VWDEOHV LQFOXGLQJ KRUVH

7R UHJLVWHU WR VSHDN DW WKH PHHWLQJ SOHDVH FRQWDFW WKH 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW RQ RU HPDLO localpanel@penrith.city E\ SP RQ 7XHVGD\ 2FWREHU

• DSDUWPHQWV

ZDWHU ZDONHU DQG ODQG ZDONHU DQG DVVRFLDWHG

$Q\ SHUVRQ PD\ DWWHQG WKH PHHWLQJ WR REVHUYH

• FDU SDUNLQJ LQFOXGLQJ D EDVHPHQW FDU SDUN

• VTP RI UHWDLO DQG FRPPHUFLDO ÁRRU VSDFH DQG

WR VHUYLFH WKH GHYHORSPHQW

PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS

7KH 3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO LV WKH NH\ GRFXPHQW LQ WKH

Draft Community Engagement Strategy and Community Participation Plan

SODQV VXFK DV 3HQULWK /RFDO (QYLURQPHQWDO 3ODQ

7KH GUDIW &RPPXQLW\ (QJDJHPHQW 6WUDWHJ\ ZKLFK LQFOXGHV RXU &RPPXQLW\ 3DUWLFLSDWLRQ 3ODQ ZLOO JXLGH KRZ ZH LQFOXGH UHVLGHQW IHHGEDFN LQ GHFLVLRQV DERXW WKH SURMHFWV SODQV DQG SROLFLHV WKDW ZLOO VKDSH ZKDW 3HQULWK LV OLNH WRGD\ WRPRUURZ DQG \HDUV IURP QRZ

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

PUBLIC NOTICES

FXUUHQW SURFHVV IRU DPHQGLQJ ORFDO HQYLURQPHQWDO /(3 ,W H[SODLQV WKH LQWHQGHG HIIHFW RI WKH SURSRVHG FKDQJHV DQG VHWV RXW WKH MXVWLÀFDWLRQ

ZDVWHZDWHU PDQDJHPHQW V\VWHP ZRUNV Viewing of Development Applications 7KH DERYH GHYHORSPHQW DSSOLFDWLRQ V PD\ EH YLHZHG RQ &RXQFLO·V '$ 7UDFNHU YLD penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ DATracker $OWHUQDWLYHO\ WKH DSSOLFDWLRQV FDQ EH YLHZHG GXULQJ &RXQFLO·V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IÀFHUV RI &RXQFLO·V 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW ZLOO EH DEOH WR DVVLVW ZLWK \RXU HQTXLULHV

IRU WKH UHFRPPHQGHG DPHQGPHQW RI /(3

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

7KH 3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO LV RQ SXEOLF H[KLELWLRQ IRU

'HYHORSPHQW $SSOLFDWLRQV DUH GLVSOD\HG DW WKH 3HQULWK

GD\V IURP 7KXUVGD\ 6HSWHPEHU WR )ULGD\

&LYLF &HQWUH %\ ODZ UHSRUWDEOH SROLWLFDO GRQDWLRQV RU

2FWREHU RQOLQH DW yoursaypenrith.com.au

JLIWV PXVW EH GLVFORVHG E\ DQ\RQH ORGJLQJ D SODQQLQJ

DQG DW &RXQFLO·V &LYLF &HQWUH 6W 0DU\V 2IÀFH DQG

DSSOLFDWLRQ WR &RXQFLO &DOO RU YLVLW

3HQULWK DQG 6W 0DU\V /LEUDULHV

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrith.city WW39193

9

B

ased on the hilarious hit movie, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘School of Rock’ will open at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre in November 2019.

‘School of Rock’ is a “treat for all ages” and features a cast of 31 performers including 12 extraordinarily talented children aged nine to 13 years alongside some of Australia’s leading stage performers including Brent Hill as Dewey Finn and Amy Lehpamer as Principal Rosalie Mullins.

Based on the hit film starring Jack Black, ‘School of Rock’ follows Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star trying to earn some extra cash by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. But Dewey isn’t going to teach his straight-laced students’ algebra or arithmetic, oh no. These kids are going to learn what it takes to become the most awesome rock band of all time and along the way are given an education of a lifetime.

For tickets and more information, visit www.schoolofrockmusical.com.au.

The Weekender has a School of Rock family pass to give away (November 14 performance), including a merchandise pack.

For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Rock’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, October 25 and winners will be notified by email. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au.

prize cupboard

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

Well done to St Marys Rugby League Club, which last week hosted “The Pink Climb” to raise important funds for breast cancer research. The event saw 30 breast cancer survivors tackle Skypeak Adventures alongside Channel 9’s ‘Today’ crew.

my Penrith

lucky paceway winners Members of the Penrith Paceway have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and The Western Weekender. Club members can pick up a free specially numbered bumper sticker from the Paceway, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize.

Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0503, 0221, 0822.

Dose of Dorin

Jodie Neal

South Penrith

10

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Three Junction Thai.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Coffee Club Nepean River.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Dominique’s at Panthers.

FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? The river.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? Love the community, many outdoor areas for children to run around and have fun.

WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? Lakeside Restaurant at the Regatta Centre – stunning views and food.

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

wwpenrith

westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Funding aims to help bust congestion on local roads NICOLA BARTON

To celebrate our 10 Years of building QUALITY new homes in Western Sydney & the Blue Mountains we would like to offer

T

FREE ACTRON DUCTED AIR CONDITIONING* to the first 10 new Customers who choose us to build their new home.

Call us now for more details on 1300 882 770 Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh has announced new road upgrades

www.jadcohomes.com.au info@jadcohome.com.au

Building Quality New Homes YOU can Afford!

ableofficefurnituresydney.com.au

FOR YOUR OFFICE FURNITURE NEEDS

1300 341 644

Used Furniture Specials

¢ $50

POA

*Conditions apply

WW38039

Street and Woodriff Street will also be upgraded thanks to $600,000 in funding. $805,000 has been allocated to the Coreen Avenue Corridor Study which will look at widening the road to four lanes between Castlereagh Road and The Northern Road in Penrith, and upgrading intermediate intersections.

“We are delivering infrastructure upgrades to bust congestion, improve safety for all road users, and support the local jobs we are creating in western Sydney,” Ms McIntosh said.

“These projects are making people spend less time stuck in traffic, and more time at home with their family.”

POA

incl GST

Silver Metal Mobile Pedestal Durable all metal construction

TORMOB21CHUSED

¢

$90

Grey Namco Brownbuilt 2 Drawer Filing Cabinet

SEE IN STORE FOR MORE FURNITURE

Grade A Grade B

$120 $100

TOR2FILEUSED

We have a great selection of office furniture available, including modern office desks and chairs as well as other contemporary office furniture catered to your individual needs and requirements

19/26-32 Abel Street, Penrith | 1300 341 644 | ableofficefurnituresydney.com.au

WW36730 WW35000

he Federal Government has announced $14 million in funding for three new road projects in a bid to bust congestion.

The funding will go towards the widening of a section of Caddens Road, intersection upgrades on Jamison Road and a Coreen Avenue Corridor Study.

Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh announced the funding last Friday and said the projects, once completed, will greatly improve congestion in the region.

“I am proud that the Morrison Government is delivering $12.5 million for the widening of Caddens Road from Gipps Street to Kent Road to Caddens Hill Sport and Recreation Precinct to provide 3.2 metre wide travel lanes in each direction with double barrier central line marking,” she said.

“This will also include a bridge extension for the provision of a 2.5 metre wide shared user path across the culvert at Claremont Creek.”

The Caddens Road upgrade will also see the construction of a mountable roundabout at the intersection of Caddens Road and White Cedar Avenue as well as the installation of a new bus stop and bus shelter adjacent to the roundabout on the northern side.

Jamison Road intersections at Station

11

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

12

Changing face of housing Secondary dwellings becoming more popular across Penrith’s older suburbs ALENA HIGGINS

W

ith land costs and property prices in Penrith skyrocketing in recent years, more people are turning to secondary dwellings and dual occupancies as affordable housing options.

A scroll through Penrith City Council’s Development Application (DA) tracker shows just how popular these smaller housing types are.

Council estimates about 11 per cent of all DAs lodged with it last financial year were for dual occupancies and secondary dwellings. And in future they could become even more prolific.

Coming into effect for Penrith Council from July 1, 2020, fast track complying development approvals for well designed dual occupancies, manor houses and terraces will be allowed, as part of the implementation of the State Government’s Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code.

Managing Director of Penrith’s A1 Granny Flats, Stefan Dimov, said secondary dwellings, such as granny flats, took off after new legislation was introduced in 2008.

He said clients wanting to keep their aging parents close or help their children

save for a deposit, as well as investors, made up the bulk of his client base.

“When kids eventually grow up they don’t necessarily use the backyard, they’re trying to get out but obviously you can imagine with Sydney prices, they can’t exactly afford to fork out a $100,000 deposit just to get a loan,” he said.

“So people are putting $120,000 into a granny flat and getting a 12 to 15 per cent return. With a house you are spending $600,000 to get much less than that, so the benefits are quite dramatic.”

Mr Dimov said older suburbs such as Cambridge Park, Cambridge Gardens and Cranebrook were local hot spots.

“Back in those days the block sizes were a little bit larger so there is a lot more they can do there,” he said.

“And the ability to develop on a block size once it goes over 650sqm is tremendous because that’s when you can actually subdivide depending on site conditions.”

Unlike a dual - occupancy home, a secondary dwelling cannot be sold or sub- divided, a Department of Planning, Industry and Environment spokeswoman explained.

“Both types of dwellings are subject to strict controls on setbacks, building heights, streetscape compatibility, privacy and landscaping,” she said.

Stefan Dimov with one of his clients Allan McMahon at a newly constructed twobedroom granny flat in Cranebrook

WW38990

WW39095

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

13

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Man refused bail over drugfuelled rampage in Penrith

A Penrith man has pleaded guilty to lighting a fireball and injuring police during a violent drug-fuelled rage.

About 5.30am on July 12, officers attended a Dent Street, Jamisontown residence after Danny Flowers contacted police.

When they arrived, they were confronted by the 36-year-old, who used a spray can and lighter to direct a fireball at police before barricading himself in the unit.

Inside, Flowers continued to behave erratically, threatening police with the flames while smashing walls and setting property within the unit alight, prompting the fire brigade to be called.

He was finally apprehended on Mulgoa Road after scaling his balcony onto a neighbour’s premises and fleeing the scene.

During his bail application at Penrith Local Court last Thursday, his lawyer argued Flowers’ continued detention wasn’t justified as he required a bone graft for injuries sustained in the arrest.

He submitted what could have been fixed with a screw now required more invasive treatment because his injury wasn’t assessed for 12 weeks.

He also indicated there may be a spot available for Flowers to attend residential rehabilitation.

But the prosecution countered, saying there was nothing to suggest Flowers’ needs could not be met in a custodial setting.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen said Flowers’ behaviour on the day could have been “catastrophic” to police.

“He could of set fire to the whole building, presumably,” he said.

He said he was not persuaded to grant Flowers bail on the “vague” or “undefined promise” of residential rehabilitation, and noted the charges, which Flowers had previously pleaded not guilty to, were “extremely serious”.

When Flowers was collared, he admit-

ted to ingesting a quantity of methamphetamine, otherwise known as ‘ice’, saying, “it’s just all to do with the drugs, man”, the court heard.

Appearing on screen, a dejected Flowers placed his head in his hands as the news sunk in.

After bail was refused, his lawyer formally entered pleas of guilty to all seven charges, including two counts of ‘assault police’, two counts of ‘assault police cause actual bodily harm’, ‘resist police’ and ‘destroy/damage property’.

Three police officers suffered minor injuries after being exposed to the flames and during the struggle to arrest Flowers.

The 36-year-old will be sentenced at Penrith Local Court on November 21.

His mother was in court in support.

Driver’s request for court’s leniency falls on deaf ears

A lead-foot driver has been stung with more than $1,200 worth of fines after he was nabbed speeding and driving while suspended in a school zone.

When Magistrate Geoff Hiatt asked James Dounis how he intended to plea, Dounis hesitated.

“I’ll go guilty with a bit of leniency,” he finally said.

But his request for mercy was denied after Magistrate Hiatt read the facts.

Dounis, who was clocked travelling 65km/hr in a Mulgoa school zone on August 30, told the court his suspension was over at the time but he had not attended the Roads and Maritime Services to complete the driver knowledge test.

“The problem is, your suspension wasn’t over,” Magistrate Hiatt said dryly, noting he had to complete the test before his licence was reinstated.

Dounis appeared to make matters worse when he admitted the fact he was travelling in a school zone “went out of my head” after the motorist travelling in front of him broke sharply, prompting Dounis to angrily accelerate and overtake them.

He was convicted, fined $800 and disqualified for six months, while he was fined $450 for the speeding matter.

Woman says she had knife for “personal safety” reasons

A woman detected with a knife and drugs at a Berkshire Park correctional facility has copped $1,000 worth of fines.

Beka Higginbottom fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday after she was caught taking a knife into John Morony Correctional Complex.

“Why does a person carry a flick knife?” a perplexed Magistrate Brian van Zuylen questioned.

“For my own personal safety,” she replied.

After finding the knife, prison officers subsequently searched her car and found cannabis, which Higginbotton claimed she had forgotten was there.

Magistrate van Zuylen said there was “no reason whatsoever” for anyone to carry a knife.

“The community has spoken very strongly about that,” he said, before telling her if she was caught in possession of a knife again she risked jail time.

She was fined $500 for each offence and ordered to enter a 12-month good behaviour bond.

Man could be sent to prison despite initial sentence

Norman John Williams has a nervous wait ahead after he was advised of a sentencing error that could result in him being thrown in jail.

Williams fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday where he was told he was ineligible to serve the 11-month community-based jail sentence he was originally given.

The court heard the charge Norman had pleaded guilty to – possessing child abuse material – could not be disposed of by way of an Intensive Correction Order.

His matter was adjourned for two weeks to allow Williams to see Legal Aid.

Man’s angry response to Magistrate’s ruling

Joshua Stephen O’Shea has been bail refused on drug charges.

O’Shea stands accused of supplying more than the indictable quantity of a prohibited drug and also dealing with the proceeds of crime.

Despite offering two sureties and his lawyer arguing a term of imprisonment if convicted was not “guaranteed”, Magistrate Geoff Hiatt denied bail.

He said it was a reasonably strong prosecution case and a lengthy custodial sentence would likely be imposed.

“F**king dog,” O’Shea swore as he departed the video suite.

“Thank you, have a nice day,” Magistrate Hiatt quipped in response.

His matter is set down for hearing on January 28.

Man refused access to Internet despite search for jobs

A man’s bid to soften his bail conditions has been knocked back after the prosecution raised unacceptable risks.

Robert Ellis Kennedy appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday seeking a bail variation to provide him extended access to the Internet for job searching and emailing purposes.

However, the prosecution opposed the variations.

They pointed out that while they were “empathetic” to his situation, the majority of his alleged offending had taken place over social media or email.

The court heard Kennedy was charged with a number of offences, including ‘publishing false or misleading information’, ‘stalk/intimidate’ and ‘use carriage service to menace, harass or offend’.

Magistrate Geoff Hiatt noted Kennedy’s bail had been varied in the past to allow him limited access to the Internet, and refused the further application “given the nature of the offences”.

His matter was adjourned to November 7 for reply.

We contribute to the Weekender with a weekly legal column

• Conveyancing and Property Law

• Will Disputes

• Wills, Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship

• Business and Commercial Law

• Deceased Estates

COMPLETE L E G A L & C O N V E YA N C I N G

14

4704 9991

• Traffic Law • Family Law

Complete Legal & Conveyancing are happy to offer readers of the Weekender a 20% discount on their legal fees – call today to find out more Suite 11, 354-360 High St, Penrith info@completelaw.com.au • www.completelaw.com.au

WW28971

Call us today for a FREE phone consultation on

• Migration Agents

• Criminal Law

COMPLETE L E G A L & C O N V E YA N C I N G

LegalMatters

Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

Penrith: Witnesses scare off men who were robbing teen

Police are appealing for public assistance following an armed robbery that occurred on Station Street, Penrith on Friday, October 11.

About 7.55pm an 18-year-old man who had just caught the train into Penrith was walking on Station Street when he was approached by two male persons from behind.

One held a knife to his back, the other, a firearm and demanded property.

The victim complied, handing over his phone and its wallet casing which held his license, identification and credit cards.

One of the offenders instructed the victim to reset the phone back to factory settings, to which he again complied.

Nearby witnesses yelled out to the offenders, causing them to flee.

One witness gave chase but eventually lost site of them. One of the offenders dropped the knife, which police have now obtained.

The offenders have been described as Caucasian males, about 18-19-years-old and wearing handkerchiefs across their faces.

Penrith: Offensive language costs man $500 in fines

A Penrith man has been fined after yelling abusively and using offensive language towards police inside and around Penrith Police Station on Friday, October 11.

At 1.10pm the 21-year-old Penrith man was walking past the police station when he began yelling offensive comments.

Police who were walking nearby asked him to stop.

He continued to behave in an offensive manner, despite pedestrians including children in close proximity.

As he entered the police building, he was stopped by officers and issued an infringement notice for offensive language.

This offence carries a fine totalling $500.

with Daniel McKinnon

St Marys: Man charged after intimidating homeowner

A Mt Druitt man has been charged after throwing rocks at the windows of a St Marys home.

About 1.50pm on Friday, October 11 a man was at his Carpenter Street residence when he alleges that a 24-year-old Mt Druitt man entered his rear yard.

The 24-year-old asked the homeowner if there was a particular person inside the premises.

It is alleged the 24-year-old then walked to the front of the home and threw a bottle through a window.

He then proceeded to throw rocks at the windows of the home, smashing two before leaving.

About 20 minutes later, he returned, attempting to fight the homeowner and throwing more rocks at the windows.

He left the scene.

About 5.30pm on Sunday, October 13 the man returned yet again to the backyard of the address, attempting to fight the homeowner.

He was behaving aggressively and threw more rocks.

Police were called and attended.

He was charged with ‘armed with intent to commit indictable offence’, ‘common assault’, ‘destroy or damage property (x2)’ and ‘stalk and intimidation’ to appear at Penrith Local Court on Monday, November 25.

Cranebrook: Police believe home invasion was targeted

A man has been injured after a number of people forced their way into a home in Cranebrook on Wednesday morning.

About 12.40am, a group of people entered the Offerton Way premises where they assaulted the 36-year-old occupant.

He suffered a broken hand and a laceration to his back.

He was treated at the scene before being taken to Nepean Hospital for further treatment. His injuries are not considered life-threatening.

CC TYRES FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED, WITH OVER 60 YEARS SERVICING THE PENRITH REGION.

Complete Legal & Conveyancing • 4704 9991 • Suite 11, 354 High Street Penrith

Search for Silverdale snake Residents of Silverdale, on the outskirts of our great city of Penrith, are on the lookout for a fugitive boa constrictor said to be stalking the suburb.

A snakeskin measuring over 2.5 metres in length thought to be that of a boa was found at a building site in the residential Cascades development this week sparking fears that there is a huge snake at large putting native animals, pets and residents at risk.

Despite the best efforts of local snake hunters (think Samuel L Jackson from ‘Snakes on a Plane’ or J Lo from ‘Anaconda’) the snake is yet to be found.

What is particularly peculiar about this case is that the boa constrictor is native to the Americas and is illegal in New South Wales outside zoos.

Ergo, the only way the species could have came to be on the loose in Silverdale is as a result of it having escaped from or being freed by someone who was housing it illegally.

New South Wales has a number of pieces of legislation that regulates the keeping of animals and animal welfare.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act sets out a range of offences punishable by fines and imprisonment for people who engage in acts of cruelty against animals. The Companion Animals Act regulates the use of companion animals such as guide dogs and the Animal Research Act puts in place strict regulations around how animals can be used in research and teaching.

One of the more controversial pieces of animal legislation in New South Wales however is the Exhibited Animals Protection Act. Zoos, circuses and other animal

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

exhibitions often come under fire from animal activists who argue that exotic beasts should be left to their own devices in the wild and not kept in captivity.

The Exhibited Animals Protection Act regulates exhibitors to ensure that minimum standards of care, presentation and safety are provided for animals they exhibit.

The Act requires the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries to issue authorities and licences for particular animals to be exhibited. Generally speaking, the same Act prohibits certain species from being kept as pets and/or outside a licensed exhibition such as a zoo or circus. The boa constrictor fits into this category.

Animals that are subject to the Exhibited Animals Protection Act are usually non domestics such as cats and dogs that could represent a danger to the public if not managed properly. The types of animals concerned are those you would normally find in a zoo, such as lions, tigers and bears – and giant boa constrictors. People who hold licences to keep animals in captivity for the purposes of exhibition must provide an environment for the animal that takes into account their psychological and physical welfare, provides some educational value and prioritises public safety.

To obtain a licence to exhibit an applicant must show that they have appropriate qualifications and experience in handling and exhibiting the animal in question. For example, someone who wanted to open a tiger exhibition in Penrith would need to demonstrate that they have experience handling big cats.

✓ All tyre brands available & a wide selection of wheels ✓ We service local business, fleet companies, government and the local community ✓ Large diameter fitting and balancing & Advanced camera alignments ✓ Tyre puncture repairs (all tyres) ✓ Road Side Service for on site equipment inc backhoes, bobcats trucks, tractors etc

We'll get the job done right!

(02) 4731 4822 / 108 BATT STREET, PENRITH WW38796

WW38796

15

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Penrith’s biggest problem Frightening new statistics show one in three local residents has an obesity issue NICOLA BARTON

N

ew obesity statistics reveal Penrith’s got a big problem, with 32.8 per cent of adults in the region being classified as obese.

The numbers are significantly higher than surrounding cities, with Blacktown currently sitting at 30.6 per cent, the Blue Mountains at 26.2 per cent and Parramatta at 25.5 per cent.

The statistics, released by the Mitchell Institute, show how the rate of obesity varies dramatically across the country, highlighting the impact of where people live and their income has on their health.

Areas like North Sydney sit at a low 14.7 per cent.

Health expert Rosemary Calder said it was no surprise that wealthy city suburbs have the lowest rates of obesity and believes more preventative strategies need to be in place for regional or disadvantaged communities.

“We have spent too long as a nation expecting individuals to be able to change their behaviour to reduce their weight,” she said.

“However, the evidence is very clear that this has little chance of success without a very strong focus on the environmental

New research shows Penrith has a significant obesity problem. Stock photo factors in the places where we live that contribute to poor nutrition and inactivity.

“People in our wealthier suburbs tend to have better access to information about healthy diet and the financial means to access healthy food options and enjoyable physical activity.”

So is the recent closure of health food store Healthy Life in Penrith Westfield

indicative of our unwillingness to splash money on nutritious food? Or are we just getting lazier?

Penrith Dietician Candace Sciberras from OnePointHealth said there are a whole host of contributing factors to the region’s weight problem including money, convenience, variety and education.

“There’s a big misconception that

healthy food is expensive but there’s definitely ways around it,” she said.

“With careful planning and creativity you can easily eat healthy on a budget and make that food taste good as well.”

Her tips for saving on healthy foods include buying fruit and veg that’s in season, being strategic by looking out for sales on bulk items and replace expensive animal proteins with legumes and lentils when necessary.

“Avoid eating out is also a big one, feeding a family of four at a restaurant can cost you upwards of $80, just imagine how many fruits and vegetables you could buy for that cost.”

Ms Sciberras said for those looking to make lifestyle changes, be wary of the misconception of some ‘healthy’ foods.

“Greek yogurt is great for you but there’s so many flavours, same with oatmeal or cereal, pre- sweetened or flavoured items have so much added sugar,” she said.

The latest data shows the national obesity rate has risen 27 per cent over the past 10 years with almost a third of Australians obese, placing them at much higher risk of diabetes, some cancers, heart disease, arthritis and dementia.

Currently the top medical killer in Penrith is circulatory diseases like heart disease, strokes or cardiovascular disease.

2.30pm Sunday 3 November 2019

JOIN US FOR THIS VERY SPECIAL MASS

All Souls Day MASS 2019

230 - 260 Western Road, Kemps Creek P: 02 9826 2273 E: admin@kempscreekcemetery.com.au www.kempscreekcemetery.com.au

16

WW38020

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

17

WW38931

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

SNIPS AND SNAPS !

TIM IN TOWN

Socceroos legend Tim Cahill will be in Penrith this weekend to meet with adoring fans and sign copies of books from his new series Tiny Timmy.

Cahill will be appearing at Big W in Penrith from Midday until 1pm on Saturday, October 19.

The Tiny Timmy series is a great range of books for children that feature Tiny Timmy and his dreams of playing for Australia when he grows up. He’ll have to work hard to make that happen, but now he has a chance to be out on the field with his heroes at their big game!

You can purchase the books from Big W or all good book stores.

NUDE BAR ENJOY A DRINK IN THE BUFF Stitch Bar in the Sydney CBD, along with Young Nudists of Australia, will co-host ‘Bottoms Up Sydney’ – an opportunity for less- inhibited Sydneysiders to enjoy a Sunday session, a few beers and a feed with your friends, minus all your clothes.

‘Bottoms Up Sydney’ will run from 3pm to 8pm on Sunday, October 27 and will be the perfect way to shake off the curse of winter and kick off your au naturale summer.

Tickets from Eventbrite.

THE GREATEST WALK CAKE BAKE

Well done to the team at the Red Cross Penrith Branch, who held a Big Cake Bake recently to raise important funds. It was great to see so many people taking part in the event.

FAREWELL

St Nicholas of Myra Parish Penrith secretary and office manager Lyn Olander is retiring after 25 years of service to the parish community.

During her 25 years, Lyn has had the pleasure of working with five different parish priests.

Lyn said “it was time” to move on into retirement.

“It’s my hope that the facts will win the day. That the truth will always matter.

That journalism and journalists will thrive.”

FOX NEWS VETERAN SHEPARD SMITH’S FAREWELL TO VIEWERS

MEN STILL UNDER PRESSURE TO LIVE UP TO OLD STEREOTYPES

18

A report released by Movember has revealed that 51 per cent of 18 34 year olds have avoided talking about their problems because they don’t want to appear less of a man.

The survey, commissioned by Movember and carried out by Ipsos MORI, included 1000 Australian adult men aged between 18-75. It found that despite significant awareness that talking openly was an effective way of dealing with problems, younger men, in particular, were reluctant to do so.

Over a third (35 per cent) of Aussie men – of all ages – said they felt under pressure to behave in a masculine way and over half (59 per cent) believed that society expects them to be ‘emotionally strong’ and not show weakness.

Brendan Maher, Movember’s global mental health director, said: “Although we’ve made great strides in

raising awareness of the challenges in men’s mental health and the importance of speaking up especially when you’re struggling, it is worrying that Australia’s young men are still feeling under pressure to conform to age - old, masculine stereotypes that stop them from talking about the things that keep them up at night.”

ACCESS THE FULL REPORT AND LEARN MORE BY VISITING MOVEMBER.COM.

65KM TRAIL A WIN FOR THE WEST A new 65 kilometre walking trail has opened in western Sydney, showcasing some of the region’s most vibrant cultural spaces, beautiful landscapes and oldest architecture.

The Great West Walk is the first- ever continuous walking track from Parramatta CBD to the foot of the Blue Mountains.

“The Great West Walk crosses through towns, parks and woodlands, over

!

SLEEP HIGH The Sydney Tower Eye has joined forces with Koala to give one lucky couple the once -in-a lifetime opportunity to experience Sydney’s Highest Sleepover – an exclusive overnight stay at the city’s tallest building, the Sydney Tower Eye, 250 metres above the streets of Sydney.

To enter, you need to explain in 50 words or less why you are in need of the ultimate night’s sleep from Sydney’s highest viewpoint!

To enter, visit www. sydneytowereye.com.au/ news/sydneys-highestsleepover.

rivers and bridges, and past some of Australia’s oldest buildings housed in Parramatta Park,” said Planning and Public Spaces Minister, Rob Stokes.

“This is a huge win for western Sydney resi dents and tourists and a fantastic example of the Government, community, landowners and Councils coming together to create high quality public open spaces.”

The route forms part of

the NSW Government’s Green Grid – a network of interlinked walkways, cycleways and open spaces across Greater Sydney creating green connec tions from people’s homes to local centres, to their workplaces and to where they spend their leisure time.

For more details about the walk, including highlights and the full route from Parramatta to Penrith, visit greatwestwalk.com.au.

SPIDER-MAN VISIT

STARS DOWN UNDER Jacob Batalon and Remy Hii are touring Sydney this week in celebration of the home entertainment release of ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’, available now on digital and yours to own on Blu-ray and DVD from October 23.

Last weekend, the pair toured Sydney and came faceto-face with some of Australia’s iconic spiders at Wild Life Sydney Zoo, Darling Harbour.

the western weekender Âť Friday, October 18, 2019

Tench Reserve Nepean River

WW38652

19

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Research could save lives Experts to investigate neonatal deaths caused by bacteria in intensive care units NICOLA BARTON

M

edical research to help prevent serious infections in premature babies at Nepean Hospital has now become a reality, thanks to a generous grant from the Australian Women and Children’s Research Foundation (OZWAC).

Awarded at the Nepean Clinical School’s Research Day event, three professors will now commence potentially life saving research into preventing neonatal deaths caused by Serratia Marcescens in intensive care units.

Serratia Marcescens is a serious bacteria found in most hospitals that is antibiotic resistant.

Infectious disease specialist James Branley, Microbiologist Adam Polkinghorne and Bioinformatician Nathan Bachmann will look at studying the DNA sequences of the bacteria to help understand where the babies are exposed and how these can be eliminated from the hospital environment.

“When these babies are born, they are desperately unwell and, as a result, they are at a high risk of getting exposed to a number of infections that their bodies are just not ready to fight,” Professor Polkinghorne said.

Adam Polkinghorne, James Branley and OZWAC board member Stephen Jack are excited about the upcoming research “In a hospital environment, these bacteria are present and babies have the chance to be exposed to them.

“The DNA sequences can potentially tell us how to better treat these infections because these particular bacteria, present

in the hospital environment, are actually resistant to many antibiotics. So this information helps us to find the best treatments we can as soon as possible because these are life threatening infections and time is really precious in treating them.”

Serratia Marcescens is present in most hospital environments but is a particular problem in neonatal intensive care units.

The $15,000 grant will go towards the study to generate the DNA sequence information, which then are studied with different types of computer analysis.

OZWAC presented grants totalling $69,000 on the night, all towards projects that provide medical research into the health of women and children.

Professor Polkinghorne said it was important that organisations like OZWAC provided such assistance.

“The funding landscape is there’s more need and a diminishing amount of money available,” he said.

“Grant funding is extremely competitive and so many important projects just can’t get the funding from the traditional sources.”

He said local charities played a major part in ensuring projects got the funding they required.

“Having organisations like OZWAC providing that makes a big impact,” he said.

As the only research foundation in the Greater Western Sydney region, OZWAC draws upon community support to raise funds in order to sponsor local doctors.

To donate visit, www.ozwac.org.au.

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

• Babies • Children • Adults

Love to Swim Swim for Safety Swim for Life!

WW38516

LEARN TO

nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au • 4730 8900

0404 459 600 Penrith based, family owned company dedicated to providing quality painting services

www.visionpainting.com.au

WW36307

Licence No. 151503C ABN: 54 518 520 984

Just for balance, can you display a photo of the 50,000 people in Penrith happy to let these four be the guinea pig?

TREVOR DALEY, VIA FACEBOOK

This was always in the master plan.

Before anybody ever bought a block of land in Caddens. People should’ve done their research before buying on Cadda Ridge Drive. I know people that chose to buy closer to Caddens Road than Cadda Ridge because they did their research and anticipated a quieter location.

BRENDAN DERRICK, VIA FACEBOOK

Painting and Decorating

20

Not quite taking over

I really can’t see this affecting anyone but the school bus and the bushfire brigade (Concern over road closure, Weekender October 11). Absolutely ridiculous closing it at that section. Most people already use the new road through the estate now. It doesn’t make any sense to close it there. The road diverts at the eastern end near the new footy field so the only general traffic that use that road are the ones who want to access Ulm Road, now they will have to go the long way round. Dumb move Council.

PETER BOWLER, VIA FACEBOOK

Closure always planned

VISION >>» Domestic andCommercial Commercial TextureCoatings Coatings Domestic and »>> Exterior Exterior Texture >>» Decorative Finishes >> Heritage & Federation Work Decorative Finishes » Heritage and Federation Work >> Roof Restorations >> All General Painting » Roof Restorations » All General Painting A new coat of paint can add value and rejuvenate the appearance A new of paint can add value and rejuvenate the appearance of your home. of yourcoat home.

It therefore makes sense to invest in maintaining your It therefore makes sense to invest in maintaining your most valuable asset. most valuable asset.

Road closure is dumb

Electric car discussion What’s the point? (More power to the drivers, Weekender October 11). You are charging it with a coal fired power station which generated equivalent carbon as a new petrol powered car.

GEOFFREY BIRCHALL, VIA FACEBOOK

Station stinker I haven’t used Penrith Station in years but had cause to catch a train on Saturday morning. I was stunned by how awful the upgrade to this station was. No shop, ridiculous stairs and the smallest lift in Australia. This station upgrade is one of the worst infrastructure spends I’ve ever seen in Penrith.

GREG CLARKE, VIA EMAIL

Horse racing shame The dark secrets of horse racing have repeatedly outraged the public. Now, Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Darren Weir and two others have been charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty.

Weir has been charged with nine offences including three counts of “engaging in the torturing, abusing, overworking and terrifying” of a racehorse. Police cameras earlier this year captured the men repeatedly shocking the horse with an electronic device called a “jigger”. Weir has already been banned from racing for four years, but that was all racing officials did. If you hate animal cruelty, please avoid the races.

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.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Retire where you feel at home Enjoy the freedom of maintenance-free living in a friendly community of social retirees at Anglicare. A place you can truly call home.

Stay healthy and active with a variety of onsite facilities. Connect with others and pursue new interests. Nurture and grow your faith in a caring Christian environment. Enjoy a tranquil yet convenient setting, close to shops and transport.

Choose from a mix of villas, apartments and units, something for every budget. Ask about our move-in early on a 10% deposit offer

Book a village tour and view our accommodation.

ANG5416

(conditions apply).

NEW APTS AVAILABLE FROM $265,000*

NEW VILLAS FROM $348,000*

UNITS FROM $240,000

Rooty Hill Village, Rooty Hill

Caddens Village, Caddens

St Stephens Village, Penrith

• New village conveniently located next to Rooty Hill Station and shops • 1 and 2 bedroom apartments available • Pet-friendly village with multipurpose community centre, playground and BBQ area • Residential care onsite

• New 1 and 3 bedroom villas available • Pet-friendly village 3km from Penrith • Pool, gym, bowls, workshop and more • Close to shops and public transport • Residential aged care onsite

• Newly-refurbished 1 and 2 bedroom units available • Friendly village community • Tranquil yet convenient location • Close to shops and public transport • Residential aged care nearby

* Price based on 50% deferred management fee option. Conditions apply.

WW39165

1300 111 278 anglicare.org.au/retirement 21

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

‘Thursday Night Live’ adds spark to CBD Penrith City Council will launch ‘Thursday Night Live’ later this month.

For three consecutive Thursdays from October 31 to November 14, Council

will host live family friendly entertainment in Triangle Park from 6pm.

“Worthless” pet insurance caned by advocacy group EMILY FESZCZUK

I

t’s something many pet owners take out to ensure they’re not burdened with financial heartache when their furry friends get sick, but there’s now real question marks over whether pet insurance is worth the investment.

Consumer advocacy group Choice reviewed 86 different pet insurance policies and said it can’t recommend a single one of the available products.

It has handed the pet insurance industry one of its Shonky Awards, suggesting many Penrith residents with such products may be getting ripped off.

Choice says the main issue is the ‘preexisting condition’ trap that results in exclusions that make it worthless.

Jaime Horninge has experienced this issue firsthand with her English Staffy Charlie.

“I took out pet insurance with Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) that is administered by PetSure when Charlie was eight-weeks-old to the day and got a full check to ensure she was healthy and covered for her insurance policy,” Ms Horninge said.

“They still added a pre-existing condition of allergies on my policy when she was three- months- old because the vet wrote in their notes that she seemed to be scratching.”

Department of Planning, Industry and Environment

Exhibition of Critical State Significant Infrastructure Application M12 Motorway Application No Location Proponent Council Area Approval Authority

SSI-9364 Kemps Creek, Mount Vernon, Cecil Hills, Badgerys Creek, Luddenham Roads and Maritime Services Fairfield City, Liverpool City, Penrith Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

Description of proposal A new dual-carriageway motorway to connect the M7 Motorway with the Western Sydney Airport and The Northern Road. The motorway will be initially two lanes in each direction, with capacity for an additional future lane in each direction.

Exhibition Details The Critical State significant infrastructure (CSSI) Application, Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and accompanying documents may be viewed electronically at the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment at 320 Pitt Street, Sydney or on the Department’s website (https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/onexhibition). You may also view an electronic copy at a Service NSW Centre located near you (www.service.nsw.gov.au/service-centre/service-nsw) and a hard copy may be inspected at the location(s) listed below from Wednesday 16 October 2019 until Monday 18 November 2019 during the ordinary office or opening hours of the agency concerned: • • • • • • • • • •

Fairfield City Council: 86 Avoca Road, Wakeley; Liverpool City Council: Ground Floor Shop R1, 33 Moore Street, Liverpool; Penrith City Council: Civic Centre, Penrith; St Clair Library: 12 Bennett Road & Endeavour Avenue, St Clair; Wetherill Park Library: 561-583 Polding Street, Wetherill Park; Carnes Hill Library: 600 Kurrajong Road, Carnes Hill; Camden Council: 70 Central Avenue, Oran Park; RMS Office: 20-44 Ennis Road, Milsons Point; Western Sydney Airport Visitor Centre: Eaton Road, Luddenham; and Sydney Nature Conservation Council: Level 145, 338 Pitt Street, Sydney.

Not happy that any skin issues were now not covered under the pre-existing condition rule, even though pet owners can only take insurance out on a puppy at eight-weeks-old, Ms Horninge challenged the policy.

After complaining to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), she was eventually refunded her premiums and had the policy cancelled.

The Cranebrook resident, who works in the Financial Services industry, said she still believes pet insurance has its benefits, despite Choice’s findings, and is now with another provider.

“I do still have a policy, because my cash savings will no doubt get dipped into when needed and I want the peace of mind in an accident or cancer type situation,” Ms Horninge said.

“I couldn’t imagine not having it and being asked to choose between coming up with money I don’t have and losing my dog, so I am a passionate insurance advocate, but it does have room for improvement.”

Choice CEO Alan Kirkland is warning pet owners to sign up for any policy with their eyes wide open.

“Riddled with exclusions and technicalities, pet insurance is one of this country’s worst value insurance products. It relies on emotionally manipulating your love of your pet to sell you worthless insurance,” he said.

At the time of publishing this advertisement, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces has not directed that a public hearing should be held.

Controlled Action Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) The Commonwealth Minister for the Environment and Energy has decided that the proposed development is a “controlled action” under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The EPBC Act Part 3, Division 1 controlled provisions are: Listed threatened species and communities (sections 18 and 18A) The project M12 Motorway will be assessed under Part 5, Division 5.2 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The assessment will be in accordance with the Bilateral Agreement between NSW and the Commonwealth, made under the EPBC Act. The assessment will be done in the manner specified in Schedule 1 of the Bilateral Agreement.

The public notice for the project may be found at: www.environment.gov.au/epbc/public-notices Have your say To make a submission online, create a user account on the Department’s Major Projects website at www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects. To create a user account, click the ‘Sign In’ icon in the top right of the homepage or under the ‘Services’ tab and then click the ‘Have Your Say’ link.

When you are logged in, find the project you want to have your say on, and click the ‘Make a Submission’ icon.

Anyone can make a written submission about the CSSI application during the exhibition period from Wednesday 16 October 2019 until Monday 18 November 2019.

To find out what is reportable, and for a disclosure form, go to www.planning.nsw.gov.au/ DonationsandGiftDisclosure or telephone the number below for a copy. Note the disclosure requirements apply however a submission is made.

22

For more information: 1300 305 695 Planning and Assessment, Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, GPO Box 39 SYDNEY NSW 2001 (Your submission should be marked, Attention: Director – Transport Assessments)

WW39113

If you cannot lodge online, you can write to the address below. If you want the Department to delete your personal information before publication, please make this clear at the top of your letter. You need to include: • Your name and address, at the top of the letter only; • The name of the application and the application number; • A statement on whether you support or object to the proposal; • The reasons why you support or object to the proposal; and • A declaration of any reportable political donations made in the previous two years.

BLZ_LP0630

Before making your submission, please read our Privacy Statement at www.planning.nsw.gov.au/privacy or telephone the number below for a copy.

The Department will publish your submission on its website in accordance with our Privacy Statement.

WW39195

Chance for the community to recognise dedicated work of local police officers NICOLA BARTON

N

ominations for the Police Officer of the Year Awards are now open, set to recognise those who go above and beyond to protect the community.

Over the past 15 years the local Rotary clubs including Penrith, St Marys, Nepean, Penrith Valley and Wallacia – Mulgoa Valley under their Community Service Awards have held the awards night.

Relying on nominations from the Nepean community, the awards put a spotlight on officers who fulfil the mantra ‘service above self’.

After the brave acts shown at the recent shooting outside Penrith Police Station, Nepean Police Area Command Superintendent Chris Keane said this highlights the sacrifices officers make.

“The women and men of the Nepean Police Area Command come to work each day in a challenging, busy, and at times physically dangerous environment,” he said.

“Our officers come to work each day to fulfil the NSW Police Force’s commitment to the community to prevent and disrupt crime and to respond to the calls for assistance.

“They are driven by a desire to do their very best to serve the local community.”

Categories for the awards include Police Officer of the Year, Leadership and Vocational Excellence.

“Much of what happens is unseen and goes unheralded, but I couldn’t be prouder of the team of women and men working here at the Command,” Superintendent Keane said.

“We are extremely grateful to Rotary and all the event sponsors for their ongoing support of the Nepean Police Area Command and for continuing the tradition of these local Police Officer of the Year Awards.”

The Police Officer of the Year award acknowledges outstanding acts of courtesy, kindness, understanding, compassion, courage and devotion to duty.

This award is judged by members of the committee from the participating Rotary clubs.

The Leadership award is for an officer who has shown exceptional leadership skills similar to the Police Officer of the Year requirements, however selection is carried out by Nepean Police Management.

The Vocational Excellence award is for exceptional devotion to duty. Nominations cover all Nepean Police Area Command

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Honouring our top cops

Rotary’s Chris Miller with Superintendent Chris Keane (centre) joins officers to launch this year’s Police Officer of the Year awards. Photo: Megan Dunn staff, including those who work in the background and selection is carried out by Nepean Police Management.

Nomination forms can be found at

Penrith and St Marys Police Stations or any of the Rotary clubs.

Entries for all categories close on February 3, 2020.

Love where you live? But need a new home?

Knock down and rebuild specialist | New custom-built homes mes Multi-Generational homes | Homes to suit any size land FREE QUOTE & SITE INSPECTION

Display Homes: 14, 16 & 18 Kingscott Place, Castle Hill I n s p e c t | We d & F r i 2 p m - 5 p m | S a t & S u n 1 1 a m - 4 p m binethomes.com.au | 9868 3222 | Designing and building Sydney’s finest homes since 1965

WW39229

HIA Award Winner

23

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Chiefs rocked by robbery Baseball club shattered after equipment and apparel is stolen during holidays EMILY FESZCZUK

T

he Colyton and St Clair Chiefs Baseball Club has taken a hit after their clubhouse was broken into last week.

The club is holding a fundraising event at Flip Out in Penrith to help with the losses.

Club President Matthew Forbes, whose two children play with the club, told the Weekender that he was shocked to hear about the robbery.

“We were on a break over school holidays and got a call from Council who came down to mow and discovered we were broken into,” he said.

“We have an alarm system, but they disconnected it and we have been told there have been similar break-ins around, so they seem to know what they are doing.”

The small club, which only makes a profit from their canteen, is struggling to come up with over $2000 excess to put an insurance claim through.

“They took a ride-on lawn mower, whipper snipper and an edger, which is vital for us. They also took club apparel like hoodies, hats and bags that will be no use to them,” Mr Forbes said.

“We keep our fees low and any money

Chiefs Club President Matthew Forbes at the clubhouse earlier this week. Photo: Megan Dunn we make from the canteen and fundraising goes towards the Presentation for the kids, so it’s now disappointing we need to use it for this.”

Mr Forbes said they already had a fun day planned to fundraise, which will now

be used to cover the cost of the break- in and insurance claim.

“We wanted to add some rides to the end of season Presentation to make it better for the kids, so we had already organised a fundraiser with Flip Out,” he said.

“If you come down on Sunday, October 20 from 10am to 12pm it will be $20, and if you say you are here for the Chiefs Baseball fundraiser half of that will go to the club, which will really help.”

For more details, visit bit.ly/2Bbjn20.

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

Be safe this swimming season

24

WW39218

The warmer weather brings with it the swimming season and, unfortunately, an increased risk of drowning particularly in a poorly fenced or maintained backyard pool.

Everyone wants to beat the heat if possible, or have a good time in the pool – but the pool can also be a dangerous place, especially if there is no barrier to stop children from going for an unsupervised swim.

Children aged under five continue to be the age group that accounts for the largest number of drowning deaths in swimming pools in Australia.

This is why Penrith Council is issuing a warning about unfenced swimming pools and is calling on residents to ensure all pools – especially inflatable pools – are properly fenced off.

Inflatable pools are a cheap way to keep cool but there have been cases where a family has simply bought the pool, blown it up, filled it and started swimming.

If you think you don’t need to fence

off an inflatable pool or a swim spa, you’re wrong.

Portable and inflatable pools have the same drowning risk as permanent pools and any that are more than 30cm deep must be properly fenced off.

Properly fenced off means the pool is inside a four sided barrier of at least 1.2 metres high with a self-closing gate with latch height of 1.5 metres. The boundary fence minimum height is 1.8 metres.

Too often a toddler wanders around a backyard and gets into trouble because the pool is unfenced or the gate is propped open.

For the sake of your family, your children’s playmates and above all – for peace of mind and to avoid the tragedy of a drowning – make sure pools are properly fenced.

Have a great and safe summer.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: Keep up to date with all the local breaking news, sport and more by ‘liking’ us on Facebook. Visit www.facebook.com/ westernweekender

How a North St Marys toddler’s bravery saved her brother’s life in his time of need NICOLA BARTON

T

he biggest challenge most siblings under five face is who gets the bigger slice of cake.

But for a brave three- year- old North St Marys resident, donating her bone marrow to her four-year-old brother was a no-brainer decision and one that would go on to potentially save his life.

Diagnosed with Leukemia in 2016, it’s not been an easy ride for now five- yearold Taylor but despite harsh and rigorous treatments, his cheeky personality has shone throughout the process.

Initial chemotherapy treatments led to kidney stones requiring stents. After having these removed he contracted a fungal infection before undergoing a further 18 months of chemo maintenance.

“He was then a month clear and the day we went to the hospital to ring his celebration bell he relapsed,” Taylor’s mum, Sandy Hall said.

“We then went straight into the next treatment but this time the only way to get rid of it was to involve a bone marrow transplant.”

Taylor began conditioning, involving heavy duty chemotherapy and radiation, with further complications leading to the

Siblings Ruby and Taylor share an unbreakable bond. Photo: Megan Dunn removal of his gall bladder. On October 15 last year he had the transplant, thanks to a generous donation from his sister Ruby.

“All of the family were tested but she was the best possible match,” Ms Hall said.

“She knew she was the only one, she wasn’t scared one bit, she didn’t hesitate and we even got t- shirts made up for the day which read ‘today I saved my brother’s life’, we are just so proud.”

Ms Hall said the two kids are “insepara-

WIN 1 OF 5 EXPRESS ENTRY TICKETS EACH THURSDAY! Join us at Workers Blacktown each Thursday to WIN 1 of 5 express entry tickets or a share of $500 cash!

Activate your entries between

ble” and “basically twins”, having been born only 12.5 months apart.

Since the transplant, Taylor has had bone marrow biopsies every two months.

This week marks the one year anniversary of his operation – another significant milestone on his journey to recovery.

“Two years is the magic number to achieve to be considered cured, so we’re half way there and he’s crossed off some huge milestones now, so hopefully that’s

OVER

WIN

$90,000

IN CASH AND PRIZES TO BE WON

5.30pm - 7.30pm to enter.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

An unbreakable bond

Ruby and Taylor in hospital it. It hasn’t held him back at all, he jumps on the trampoline like any other kid, ran in a running race the other week, it doesn’t stop him.”

Next year Taylor and Ruby will be starting Kindergarten together, where the incredible bond of brother and sister will have a new chapter written.

To stay up to date with Taylor’s story through his recovery, head online and visit bit.ly/2OvyFXm.

CAR, CASH, HOLIDAY

GAIN ENTRY WITH $10 $ 0 SPEND WITHIN THE BWC GRO GROUP

MAJOR DRAW 7.30pm THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER AT WORKERS BLACKTOWN BLACKT

WW39224

Authorised Auth ed Under Under NSW SW W Permit Perr mit miit i Number Numb umb mbber LTPS/19/Pending m LTPS/ T P 19/P TPS 19 Pend ending ndi dinngg | See S eeee W Website ebsi ebs bbsssi bsi site ittee For Foorr Full Full u Terms Term rm ms & Conditions Cond Con Co C oond on nnddiit iti itio ttiiioons tio ns

WIN ME

workers blacktown 55 campbell street, Blacktown 2148 | P: 9830 0600 Authorised under nsw permit number LTPS/19/38689

workersclub.com.au

25

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

DUCTED PACKAGES FULLY INSTALLED ALL WITH 5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY

NO DEPOSIT

60

DUCTED PACKAGE 1

MONTHS INTEREST FREE#

#

Conditions apply. See store or website for details. Interest free offer only available on ducted aircon packages - no split systems.

DUCTED PACKAGE 2 12.5kW COOLING & 14kW HEATING INVERTER NEW • 6 OUTLETS MODE WITH 2 ZONES L

12.5kW COOLING & 14kW HEATING INVERTER NEW • 6 OUTLETS MODE WITH 2 ZONES L

$

6495

$

6995

DUCTED PACKAGE 5

DUCTED PACKAGE 6

14kW COOLING & 16kW HEATING INVERTER • 8 OUTLETS WITH 2 ZONES

20kW 3 PHASE • 10 OUTLETS WITH 3 ZONES

$

$

8895 LY FUL LLED A T INS

10995

DUCTED PACKAGE 3

DUCTED PACKAGE 4

12.5kW DUCTED SYSTEM WITH 14kW HEATING BO N BAC U S • 6 OUTLETS E C O T K LIT OU WITH 2 ZONES WALL C H

14kW COOLING & 16kW HEATING INVERTER BO N BAC U S • 8 OUTLETS E C O T K LIT OU WITH 2 ZONES WALL C H

$

$

CONT

8295

ROL

CONT

9295

ROL

LY 5 YEARS FUL LLED A PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY! T INS

3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW COOLING, 8kW HEATING

DAIKIN

UP TO 17 METRE REACH

LY FUL LLED A T S IN

3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW COOLING, 8kW HEATING

5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

$

2495

$

2699

LY FUL LLED A T INS

5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

1HP 3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW Cooling, 8.0kW Heating

LY FUL LLED A T INS

3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW Cooling, 8.0kW Heating

LY FUL LLED A T INS

$

2495 5 YEARS

1HP

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

$

2295 5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

MULTIHEAD PACKAGE • 1 Outdoor and 2 Indoor Units • Ideal for 2 Bedrooms • Individual Control for Every Room

LY FUL LLED A T INS

5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

$

3295

LY FUL LLED A T INS 5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

1.5HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 3.5kW Cooling, 4kW Heating

$

1695

1HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 2.5kW Cooling, 3.0kW Heating

$

1349

2HP REVERSE CYCLE 5.1kW Cooling, 5.1kW Heating

$

1495

22/12 Abbott Road Seven Hills NSW 2147

www.globalrez.com.au WE SELL ALL THE MAJOR BRANDS. COMMERCIAL QUOTES ARE WELCOMED.

26

ph: 9371 1611 ph: 1300 781 855 Email: sales@globalrez.com.au

* Terms and Conditions apply. All prices are based on Single Story Homes and Back to Back installation on split systems or extra charges apply.

Finance is subject to approval check with store for conditions and charges. Ducted Air conditioning pricing is based on single storey homes only or extra charges apply. Licence number 215189c.

WW39206

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Help put smiles on faces Locals urged to play Santa and help brighten Christmas for families in real need EMILY FESZCZUK

C

Marissa McGregor, Byron McGregor, Sarah Cuzner, Jo Skrzypnik and Elisa Kupresanin from Community Smiles help us to save and buy gifts in bulk your gift is tax deductible and you can ensure that 100 cents in the dollar goes to the cause.”

Ms Cuzner said they aim to help those experiencing poverty and other forms of disadvantage to participate more fully in

Become a Host Employer with My Gateway :H Ƭ QG WKH ULJKW DSSUHQWLFH RU WUDLQHH IRU \RXU EXVLQHVV

everyday life and ensure that their wellbeing is supported in practical ways.

“We know that even the smallest gift can be priceless when people know that their community cares about them,” she said.

“The Drive concludes on November 15 to ensure those with housing have presents

under their tree just like their mates to make sure they are included at this special time of year.”

For details, visit www.communitysmiles.org.au or email enquiries@communitysmiles.org.au. To donate money, visit www.paypal.me/communitysmiles.

1800 993 200 P\JDWHZD\ RUJ DX WW39225

ommunity Smiles is deep into their fourth annual Community Christmas Drive and is calling for donations to help people in the Penrith area who are really struggling.

Founding CEO Sarah Cuzner said the group is busy collecting goods to sort and then distribute to the community groups and charities they work with.

“As community members ourselves we have seen the power of local people supporting each other through tough times,” she said.

“The main needs this year are for gifts for teen boys and men. We also offer the suggestions of donating Aeroguard, sunscreen, basic kitchen wear, aftershave and perfume, baby items for new mums along with hats, board games and toys.”

You can drop off the items at one of the community partners or you can donate money for the charity to buy products that they need.

“It’s easy to get the donations to us at Australia Post and Salt Therapy Wellness Centre in Penrith or Flawless Laser Solutions in Glenmore Park, which are collection points,” Ms Cuzner said.

“If you would rather donate money to

27

If you want a behind the scenes look at everything that goes on here at the Weekender, make sure you follow us on Instagram!

Share a laugh with us, and be more informed!

You can follow us now by searching for ‘westernweekender’.

Support group shows plenty of heart to raise critical funds

Roads and Maritime Services

M12 Motorway: Environmental Impact Statement exhibition period Roads and Maritime Services is proposing to build the M12 Motorway, a new 16 kilometre motorway between the M7 Motorway at Cecil Hills and The Northern Road at Luddenham.

The public are invited to make a submission on the M12 Motorway Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) now on exhibition from 16 October to 18 November. The EIS is an opportunity for the community to comment on the road design and social and environmental impacts of the proposed motorway.

We encourage you to find out more about the project and the environmental assessment and speak with members of the project team at an upcoming information session. A formal presentation will not be given, so please feel free to

drop in at any time on: Information sessions:

Volunteers from the Nepean Blue Mountains Cardiac Support Group

Kemps Creek Public School 100 Cross Street, Kemps Creek: Thursday, 24 October – 5pm to 7pm

EMILY FESZCZUK

T

Kemps Creek Sporting and Bowling Club 1490 Elizabeth Drive, Cecil Park Saturday 2 November – 10am to 1pm Holy Family Primary School Lot 32 Willowdene Avenue, Luddenham Saturday, 26 October – 10am to 1pm Thursday, 7 November – 5pm to 7pm We look forward to seeing you there.

Submissions can be made online on the DPIE website: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ major-projects/projects/on-exhibition

BLZ_SB0672

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Follow the Weekender on Instagram

For more information about the project, call 1800 517 515 email m12motorway@rms.nsw.gov.au or visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/m12 WW39160

Elegance – Style – Quality / WARDROBES

Custom designed and built to suit your needs

he Nepean Blue Mountains Cardiac Support Group put their heart and soul into everything they do.

The volunteer group raise money and provide support for the Cardiac Rehab and Heart Failure Services at Nepean Hospital.

President Lynn Andrewartha told the Weekender that it is a cause close to all the volunteers’ hearts.

“11 years ago I had a heart attack and ended up in the cardiac support group but after I finished my physio sessions, I applied to join the group,” she said.

“Every volunteer is an ex- patient and

we just want to give back a little of what they gave to us during our stay.”

The group provides support during training sessions each day and is holding their annual silent auction and dinner to raise funds to buy equipment needed by the Cardio Rehabilitation Gym. “We are just there as a group to assist and also show them that you can come out the other end,” Ms Andrewartha said.

“We have bought gym equipment and training programs in the past and are looking for donations to auction, to get whatever they need next.”

The event is at the Emu Sports Club in Leonay next Friday, October 25 from 6pm. Tickets are $35. To book, contact Lynn Andrewartha on 0412 025 896.

Chloe’s first crown a result of hard work and dedication NICOLA BARTON

R WINNER

Most Outstanding Trade & Services 2008 True Local Business Awards Remember: “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten.”

UNUSUAL FITOUTS + REFURBISHMENTS ARE OUR SPECIALTY, CUSTOM DESIGN TO SUIT YOUR SPACE

Your choice of: • Hinged or sliding timber & craftwood, Colonial or Federation style doors • Reflect your lifestyle in our awardwinning aluminium Sliding Mirror Doors • A range of design options to make all your storage dreams come true • Mirror, veneer, painted & polyurethane • Innovative features • Professionally designed to meet your needs • WALK-IN ROBES • BOOKCASES • LINEN PRESS • HOME OFFICE FITOUTS • ENTERTAINMENT UNITS • HAND-MADE FURNITURE & MORE

We Make All Your Storage Dreams . . .

A Reality!

Visit our Showroom 47 Sterling Rd, MINCHINBURY

Rating on Google

Lic No. 309281C

28

WW38854

FACTORY DIRECT. ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 25 YEARS

9832 4588

www.tntwardrobes.com.au E: info@tntwardrobes.com.au

ookie beauty queen Chloe Zrebiec has won her very first pageant after competing in the Junior Miss of Australia competition in Melbourne earlier this month.

The Weekender last checked in with Chloe back in February when she was selected out of over 500 applicants to attend the pageant.

After months of preparation, Chloe stepped out on the catwalk, before being crowned the Queen titleholder of the event.

She also won Miss Popularity and Miss Social Media.

Mum Kerri Murphy said she was extremely proud of her daughter and that it has been great for her confidence.

“People couldn’t believe that she’s never done a pageant before, there were some pretty hard judges and scoring, so I was amazed she did so well,” she said.

“I felt sick all the way through it, I was so nervous for her but I could see she was enjoying it and having fun, so that’s what I wanted.

“When she got called up I cried, I was over the moon and absolutely ecstatic.

To see that crown placed on her head gave me goosebumps.”

In the lead up to the pageant, Chloe had a special costume made by So Wild Creations and had lessons from pageant coach Kim Cancellier.

Chloe Zrebiec. Photo: Megan Dunn Paying credit to her dance experience from her studio, Reign Elite, she said without this she wouldn’t have had the confidence to get up on stage.

“My experience as a dancer means I’m used to performing in front of audiences, I think if I didn’t dance I wouldn’t have been that confident to go out,” Chloe said.

“I was very nervous having not done it before but once I got out there I just wanted to keep going.”

With her eyes already set on her next pageant, Chloe will be competing in the National Australian Miss program held at St Marys Rugby League Club in November. If she’s successful, she will then go on to compete in the United States.

%

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

50

PR

S E

D L O

Artist Impression

BRAND NEW LUXURY 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS 1 Bedroom $408,000 - $450,000 | 2 Bedroom $534,000 - $620,000 | 3 Bedroom $723,000 - $785,000 From oasis-like pools, an exclusive rooftop cinema and resort-style amenities to lakeside promenades, world-class restaurants and retail, Aqua delivers a life of excitement, connection and vibrancy

Don’t Miss This Exciting Opportunity!

Enquire Now

Sales Display Gallery Open at Retreat Drive, Penrith (Next to Panthers) Wed - Sun, 10am - 1pm

1300 181818 esqpenrith.com.au WW38603

This information was prepared prior to completion of construction and whilst is believed to be correct, is indicative only, is not guaranteed and does not constitute an offer or contract. All details are approximate, are set out as a general outline for the guidance of intending purchasers and are not warranted as correct. All SKRWRJUDSKV DQG DUWLVWV LPSUHVVLRQV DUH IRU LOOXVWUDWLYH SXUSRVHV DQG DUH LQGLFDWLYH RQO\ 7KH GHYHORSPHQW LV VXEMHFW WR DXWKRULW\ DSSURYDO DQG WKH GHVLJQV RU VSHFL¿FDWLRQV PD\ EH DOWHUHG DW DQ\ WLPH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH )XUQLWXUH DQG SODQWLQJV DUH QRW LQFOXGHG DQG FRPSOHWHG DSDUWPHQWV PD\ YDU\ IURP WKH LPDJH VKRZQ 3URVSHFWLYH purchasers must satisfy themselves by inspection as to the correctness, completeness and suitability of all details and where necessary seek advice and refer to contracts of sale. No third party supplier or their agents has any authority to give any representations or warranty in relation to this property. Subject to terms and conditions available on our website.

29

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Home & Garden MEGA GIVEAWAY COMPETITION

WIN A

MiWVubishL Electric 5kW Reverse Cycle Inverter split system Coming soon to Home & Garden magazine

Lower Mountains AIR CONDITIONING 30

the western weekender

Home & Garden WW39162

20,000 plasma donors desperately needed before end of year EMILY FESZCZUK

T

he Australian Red Cross Blood Service is calling on people from Penrith to take a leaf out of Christopher Pett’s book. The 62-year-old from Cranebrook made his 263rd blood donation last Friday and isn’t stopping there.

After 121 whole blood donations Mr Pett then started making plasma donations which have helped to save thousands of Australian patients who need plasmabased medicines.

“I started in the ‘80s when I worked for Willoughby Council and we visited a nearby centre to donate blood,” Mr Pett said.

“I’ve been doing it ever since and swapped to plasma every fortnight. It is easy to do, and you are helping save lives in the process.”

Mr Pett hopes to keep donating until he is 80- years- old, which is good news for the Blood Service as Group Account Manager, Ronny Maroun, said Australia is experiencing a significant increase in demand for plasma and plasma products.

“Over the last decade, the demand for some plasma products has increased by around 10 per cent every year,” he said.

“Plasma and plasma products can be the last line of defence in the treatment of many serious medical conditions like

State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres is encouraging local sporting clubs to apply for funding under the 2019 Local Sport Grant Program.

“There are so many clubs in Penrith that can take advantage of this opportunity to increase participation in sport and active recreation,” he said.

“If you have a project that will boost training for coaches, promote grassroots sport or enhance existing facilities you should apply now.”

Funding is now available throughout NSW with $85,000 being allocated to electorates which are considered regional drought affected areas and $35,000 has been allocated to all other electorates.

Visit sport.nsw.gov.au/localsport or phone 13 13 02 for more information.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Roll up your sleeves to help

Funding on offer

New restaurant

Christopher Pett makes his latest blood donation cancer, bleeding disorders, immune and neurological conditions and burns.”

Mr Pett’s latest donation fell in International Plasma Awareness Week, which aims to highlight the importance of plasma donation.

Mr Maroun said blood donation is not just about the red stuff.

“Plasma makes up the majority of our blood and is full of important proteins

and nutrients that protect us against invaders and help our blood to clot,” he said.

“We’re calling on more Australians to roll up their sleeves and donate plasma as we need at least 20,000 new plasma donors before the year is out.”

For more information or to make an appointment, call 13 14 95 or visit www. donateblood.com.au.

A new Indian restaurant has opened its doors in Penrith this week, promising a new twist on the popular cuisine.

Dosa Hut opened on Riley Street, replacing Coco Cubano, which recently closed its doors.

More than 300 people attended Monday night’s opening of Dosa Hut, with guests trying a range of the menu items that are available.

Dosa Hut in Penrith is the 21st branch of the popular Indian chain to open in Australia and the third store to open in Sydney.

What started as a small establishment has now become a favourite among foodies across the country.

FOR SALE capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery in an unbelievably small package!

The Inogen One G4 is officially the smallest and lightest portable oxygen concentrator ever released

by Inogen. Weighing in at 1.27kg with the single battery, the Inogen One G4 even weighs less than some of the most commonly used portable oxygen tanks.

Benefits to using portable oxygen therapy include: • Travel where you want, when you want • Improved quality of life • Improves mental alertness • Provides a better night’s sleep • Increases stamina • Gives you your independence back Less than 8 months use – remainder of three year warranty applies.

Has a second 8 cell lithium Ion battery Has an 20,000 hour compressor life.

New price: Over $5,000 Sale price: $2,500

TERRIGAL LIFT AND RECLINE CHAIR

This Terrigal Chair has sturdy electric lift and recline action with a high leg raise and with back recline for relaxing comfort.

It is in soft vinyl and is dark brown.

The Terrigal Recline and Lift Chair: • Is designed for those who require assistance sitting and leaving their chair • Has a leg rest that provides comfort and support and helps promote circulation Near new – Only used for 1 month and has a two year structural warranty.

New price: $1,850 Sale price: $1,090

PLEASE CONTACT ANDREW ON 0424 859 267

WW39226

INOGEN ONE G4 PORTABLE OXYGEN The Inogen One G4 is the latest CONCENTRATOR in portable oxygen delivery. It is

31

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Grandparents Day The local community will be given a chance to celebrate their grandparents, grand- friends, step grandparents, carers and the older people in their lives at Penrith City Council’s free Grandparents Day later this month.

The event will be held on Sunday, October 27 at Parker Street Reserve in King Street, Penrith between 10am and 1pm.

“Grandparents Day is a great day for the whole family and a fantastic way for grandparents, people who play the role of grandparent and older people to be recognised for their invaluable contributions to our families, volunteer organisations and the broader community,” said Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler.

For more information about the event, visit penrith.city/events.

World of flavour

Local Heroes grant ensures community service can survive EMILY FESZCZUK

T

he winners of the 2019 Penrith Westfield Local Heroes have been announced.

Three inspiring local leaders were voted by the community to win $10,000 each to help continue their important work.

Brooke Wilkie from Nepean Area Disabilities Organisation (NADO) is well known in Penrith along with Nicole Celeban from Nepean Therapy Dogs for their hard work.

The final winner, Christy Hartlage, has been doing great things for new parents with her You Ask, We Nurture (YAWN) Project in the Blue Mountains but is hoping to expand to the Penrith area in the near future.

Ms Hartlage told the Weekender that her own experiences as a new mother led her to start the project eight years ago.

“My son was 10- months- old when I moved from New Zealand and was not a good sleeper, I didn’t have any help and wished I had a grandmother around who could hold him sometimes,” she said.

“The service is simply for babies in the first year, so our gorgeous volunteers get training and help while the parent is there to let them make dinner or have a shower, just practical help that they might get from extended family.”

Christy Hartlage from YAWN is one of this year’s Westfield Local Heroes The service has helped over 150 families and runs as a part of Connect Child and Family Services but is a mostly unfunded project.

Ms Hartlage said that winning the Westfield grant was extremely important to their team.

“We actually thought we would be finished in March this year, but we are now guaranteed to have another year

which lets me breathe a little and concentrate on finding some more sustainable funding,” she said.

“It is fantastic to have received it and we can now train more volunteers and keep the service going for a little bit longer right through the Blue Mountains and Penrith.”

To volunteer or to donate to YAWN, call 4759 1462 or visit connectcfs.org.au.

WW38828

Sydney’s best food trucks are serving up delicious food and exciting flavours from all around the world when Real Festival returns to the Nepean River on November 1 and 2.

International cuisines and everyone’s favourite foods will be dished up by the talented chefs and passionate cooks behind more than 27 popular food trucks across the Friday and Saturday.

New food trucks this year include the 2018 Pizza World Champions Lucio Pizzeria and Burnt Ends BBQ, who have a strong following for their American style ribs and slow-cooked meats.

Urban Pasta, Lambda Sydney and local favourites Burger Head will also be there.

Helping parents ease stress

Every Day is an Open Day at The Lakes ChrisƟan College The Lakes Chris an College is a Prep to Year 12 Chris an school that aims to educate, nurture and disciple young people to be all they were created to be.

Penrith South Public School – where every child’s journey is one of purpose, high expectations, dignity and options.

Now enrolling for Kindergarten 2020

The College is a place where each student can learn in a peaceful, safe and nurturing environment. Staff are commi ed Chris an professionals, ac ve in building posi ve rela onships and delivering quality teaching.

We work as partners with parents to encourage our students to develop their God-given gi s and talents as they pursue excellence in all areas of their lives. Students are challenged to strive to reach their full poten al.

Enrolment packages available from front office

32

Contact 4721 3160 or email penrithsth-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au 172-190 Jamison Road, Penrith

WW38914

Every day is an Open Day! Please contact us to arrange a tour of the College: P: 47774057 | E: office@thelakescc.nsw.edu.au W: thelakescc.nsw.edu.au

A life with momentum It was only five years ago that Deb was living her life-long dream of being a doctor. A mental health issue changed everything.

Deb was having episodes that put her in hospital every 18 months on average. “Although it was demanding, I loved practising medicine,” she says. It was the mental health services of Flourish Australia that helped Deb find new structure in her life and reassess her priorities.

Now, instead of chasing a career, Deb finds fulfilment in meaningful advocacy, allowing her health and happiness to take priority.

A milestone for me in the past two years has been staying out of hospital for longer than at any stage over the last 20 years. I put it down to the support of Flourish Australia and the NDIS. Following her recovery, Deb was invited to be the keynote speaker at the inaugural Mental Health

flourish like Deb

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Deb’s Story

ADVERTISEMENT

and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) conference. More opportunities followed. From working with Fair Trading to help people understand their rights in the NDIS, to helping rewrite the scheme itself to be more applicable to those with a psychosocial disability, Deb has leveraged her lived experience and her medical training to make a difference.

These days, health and happiness are firm priorities for me. I’ve gained a fresh perspective and feel that life is getting better and better every day.

Deb says she still drops into Flourish Australia centres every once in a while for a mental health boost, catching up with others who have a lived experience, sharing a meal, instead of giving in to feelings of isolation.

“When I’m among friends and we’re laughing together, I’m at peace. That’s when I’m flourishing.”

If you or someone you care for needs support with their mental health or the NDIS, talk to Flourish Australia today on 1300 356 874.

To learn about our recovery-focused mental health support, including NDIS services, call 1300 356 874 or visit our local centre at 232 Derby Street, Penrith.

... for me, flourishing is taking care of my mental health with purposeful work. flourishaustralia.org.au/deb

WW38929

-Deb

33

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

BUSINESS How your business can capitalise on Halloween Katina Beveridge // Digital Business Solutions Advisor Western Sydney Business Centre | 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

FREE SATURDAY SEMINARS ON LEGAL ISSUES FOR THE PUBLIC

I

28 September to 14 December 2019

12TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISING DINNER Saturday 16 November 2019

LOW-COST CLE SEMINARS for solicitors & barristers 2019 & 2020

www.tlc.asn.au

WW39180

For more information & registration go to:

t’s just over a week before Halloween comes knocking on our door... is your business geared up for the Trick or Treat season? Although not a traditional Aussie holiday, Halloween has been growing each year. With its popularity growing it is a great time to promote your products and services whilst people are in a festive mood and ready to buy.

Here are some tips on how to draft a Halloween-themed social media strategy for your business.

Make your products and content relevant The best way to enjoy the Halloween vibes is by integrating it into every aspect of your business. Create Halloween versions of your products and feature them on your social media pages. You can also create Halloween deals and discounts your customers will enjoy.

Listen to what people are talking about Be on top of the buzz by listening to actual conversations on various social media channels. Which Halloween

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

WE

SHOW YOU

design is trending? Which characters are more interesting? What Halloween deals are customers looking for? There are various social media listening tools you can use to find out what customers are looking for this Halloween. Once you’ve figured out what your customers want, you can then create deals or customized services to meet these demands.

Be willing to spend more You’re not the only business promoting their products and services during the holiday season. It will be an aggressive market where businesses will be competing for the customers’ attention and money. To ensure that you remain in front of your customers, you need to be willing to spend on social media ads and PPC. Relying on pure organic reach will no longer work if you want to outperform your competitors.

Be more personal Businesses will be competing with each other and people will be bombarded with promotions everywhere. To stand out of the crowd, add a personal touch to your content and stay away from sale-sy pitches.

WHY..

WHAT..

HOW..

Local Business Advisors are ready to assist you with Starting or Running Your Business

WW33414

Two Fully Subsidised & Confidential Appointments Small Business Workshops & Training Offices across Western Sydney & the Blue Mountains Mobile Advisors Available to visit you at your home or business

02 4721 5011 W W W . W S B U S I N E S S . C O M . A U 34

SPONSORED CONTENT

LandHQ

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

81 Camden St, Penrith 4786 1300 www.landhq.com.au

Your headquarters for everything outdoors

E

nrich your outdoor work experience with help from the team at LandHQ in Penrith.

LandHQ is Sydney’s exclusively licensed John Deere Agriculture, Golf and Turf dealership. LandHQ offer a full range of John Deere Tractors, Gator UTVs, Golf Equipment and Commercial and Residential turf equipment. LandHQ is also excited to now be a Stihl Power Equipment specialist with their Stihl

shop offering a full range of new outdoor power equipment.

If you need a part, a chainsaw or blower vac, a ride-on or zero-turn mower, or even a tractor or attachment, LandHQ are waiting to help and always have a great range of machines ready to go.

LandHQ have a dedicated team that are highly trained with John Deere and Stihl products to ensure that you have a quality experience, every time.

The trained parts specialists can supply parts and consumables for every model and make of John Deere and they have a fully qualified team of in-field John Deere and Stihl service technicians.

Demonstrations are available on all equipment and rapid and priority parts are also available meaning you can have same day service and next day delivery.

With technicians available on-site within three hours of a machine going down and

GRAND OPENING AT LANDHQ

quality warranty options, they always have you covered.

LandHQ will be hosting a STIHL Grand Opening on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26 to showcase their great range of products and celebrate their newest Stihl product line. Head on down to 81 Camden Street, Penrith, to see that latest products on offer. LandHQ is open Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 5pm and Saturday from 8am to 12pm.

YOU’RE INVITED! WE WANT TO SHOWCASE THE GREAT RANGE OF STIHL PRODUCTS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS & CELEBRATE LANDHQ’S NEWEST PRODUCT LINE! Friday 25th October 2019, 8am - 5pm Saturday 26th October 2019, 8am - 1pm

STIHL DEMO SESSIONS FRIDAY - 10am, 12pm & 2pm Saturday - 10am & 12pm

Bring yourself, bring your family, meet the local team, demo a Deere or Stihl and get some great deals! Join us for a sausage sizzle, fun for the kids and maybe win a lucky door prize.

LANDHQ 81 Camden Street, Penrith We will also have a Deere Demo Site featuring a 1025R Tractor with a loader & a 3038E Tractor with a loader.

www.landhq.com.au | (02) 4786 1300 WW39170

35

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

WIN 10 HOYTS MOVIE TICKETS

HOW OFTEN DO YOU READ THE WEEKENDER?

WHICH SOCIAL MEDIA SITES DO YOU FOLLOW THE WESTERN WEEKENDER ON?

Ō Every Week Ō 1-2 times per month Ō Less than once a month Ō Other (Please specify)

Ō Facebook Ō Instagram

WHAT OTHER LOCAL NEWSPAPERS DO YOU READ?

Ō Penrith Press Ō Nepean News Ō Roaming Ō Other (Please specify)

Ō Local News Ō Law and Order (Court and Police reports) Ō Sport Ō Extra Time (NRL) Ō Page 10 Ō Lifestyle columns (Weekender Living) Ō Entertainment Ō Western Property / Home & Garden Ō Puzzles Ō Special Features Ō Everything – can’t choose one!

HAVE YOU EVER PURCHASED A PRODUCT OR UTILISED A SERVICE AFTER SEEING IT ADVERTISED IN THE WEEKENDER?

Ō No

HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE DELIVERY OF THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

Ō Exceptional – I get it every week Ō Very good Ō Good Ō Poor Ō I never receive it

Ō Over the weekend Ō During the week

HOW MANY PEOPLE IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD READ THE WEEKENDER?

Ō2 Ō 5 or more

Ō No

YOUR AGE RANGE

Ō Under 18 Ō 26-35 Ō 46-55 Ō 66-74 YOUR SEX

Ō 19-25 Ō 35-45 Ō 56-65 Ō 75 or over Ō Female

WHAT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO SEE MORE OF IN THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

Ō Community notices Ō Competitions Ō Advertising Ō Puzzles Ō Discount coupons Ō Seniors content Ō Kids content Ō Automotive content Ō Travel content Ō Household tips Ō More lifestyle columns Ō Food reviews Ō No additional content Ō Other (please specify)

DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN UNDER 18?

Ō Yes

Ō No

HOW COULD WE IMPROVE THE WESTERN WEEKENDER? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HOW FAR WOULD YOU TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF PENRITH TO EAT OR FOR AN EVENT?

Ō 15-30 minutes Ō Over an hour

Ō 30-60 minutes Ō Wouldn’t travel

WHERE IS YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY LIKELY TO BE?

Ō1 Ō4

Ō Yes

----------------------------------------

WHEN DO YOU USUALLY READ THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

Ō Thursday Ō Friday Ō No set time

Ō Twitter Ō None

WOULD YOU TRUST NEWS OR ADVERTISING YOU SEE IN A LOCAL NEWSPAPER ABOVE AN ONLINE STORY OR ADVERTISEMENT?

Ō Male

WHAT DO YOU MOST LIKE TO READ IN THE WEEKENDER?

Ō Yes

READERSHIP SURVEY

Ō3

Ō Within NSW Ō Overseas

Ō Within Australia

YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS ----------------------------------------------------------YOUR PHONE NUMBER (REQUIRED TO BE ENTERED INTO HOYTS MOVIE TICKET PROMOTION)

------------------------------------------------

36

The readership survey will close on Friday, December 13, 2019. Winner of the Hoyts Movie Tickets will be drawn at random on Monday, December 16, 2019. Everyone who completes a readership survey is automatically entered into the movie ticket competition. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au or from Weekender reception.

WW39067

FILL IN AND POST TO OUR ADDRESS: WESTERN WEEKENDER READERSHIP SURVEY, 2/42-44 ABEL ST, JAMISONTOWN 2750 WW17383

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Country’s young stars all grown up A

dam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Darren Coggan and Felicity Urquhart formed The Young Stars of Country two decades ago.

Now fully fledged country stars in their own right, the performers are getting back together to celebrate the 20 year anniversary.

Adam told the Weekender how excited he was to be performing with the group again.

“Performing is an amazing feeling, the adrenaline and excitement that goes with

it is amazing. Then add doing it with some of your best friends and it just multiples that experience and emotions,” he said.

“It’s crazy to think when we started 20 years ago, we were kids and now we have our own kids. Our hair may be greyer yet we are not any wiser but we are so excited to perform together again.”

The 2019 reunion tour promises the hits of the stars along with a whole heap of stories from the road.

“We do some of our own songs then duets plus the four of us sing together, so you get a great mix, then there are all the funny stories we have of touring over the years,” Adam said.

“We are really great friends and enjoy

working together but we also love dishing the dirt and taking the Mickey out of each other on stage.”

The tour will be kicking off in Penrith, which Adam said is the perfect place to start.

“Western Sydney is the heart of country music, there are a lot of fans out there so it will be great to start there with a bang,” he said.

“We can’t wait to roll up and put on a great show, hopefully survive our opening night and we want everyone there with us.”

You can expect some very special moments during the show including laughs and, of course, quality country

music. The four artists will come together after 20 years with love and respect for each other, which will be a once in a lifetime treat for the audience.

‘The Reunion’ will be on at the EVAN Theatre in Penrith on Thursday, November 14 at 8pm. Tickets are $54. To book, call 1300 PANTHERS. The Weekender has two double passes plus an exclusive VIP meet and greet with the artists to give away along with five other double passes. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Country’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details.

Entries close Wednesday, October 23.

WW37426

EMILY FESZCZUK

37

38

WW37876

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Annual fair returns to Museum of Fire

T

he Museum of Fire will play host to the 31st Annual Doll, Bear and Craft Fair later this month.

Running for the past three decades, it has become one of the premier fairs in New South Wales.

With over 110 stalls undercover, all on one level with wheelchair access and plenty of bus and coach parking, it makes for a fun day out for all ages.

Stalls this year include an assortment of dolls, including re- born, porcelain, vintage and pixie dolls, plus many hand-made and hand-dressed teddies.

There will also be home- made chil-

drenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothes, Christmas decorations, quilts, soaps and candles.

You can also purchase doll cradles, prams, dream catchers, jewellery, doll clothes, as well as fully restored prams with many more craft stalls.

Many stallholders travel a long distance to be at the event as it is one of the few two-day indoor fairs still left in Sydney, so make sure to come down and support one of the Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main fundraising events for the year.

The Doll, Bear and Craft Fair will be on at the Museum of Fire in Penrith on Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27 from 9am. Tickets are from $2. Tickets are available at the door. For more information call 4731 3000.

SYDNEY

A T N SPA ECTACULAR S

Experience the Magic

WW39032

EMILY FESZCZUK

Sydney Santa Spectacular at Panthers 2019 Sessions from November 23 until December 26 a complete funbe ill w r la cu ta ec Sp Sydney Santa HV DQG D 1RUWK 3ROH LG I U R WV OR LWK Z D Q] Ã&#x20AC;OOHG H[WUDYDJD Q ODXJKWHU DQG IX RI V LH RU HP P J WLQ H[SHULHQFH /DV JXHVWV LOO EH UHPHPEHUHG E\ Z H· P WL LO\ P ID O ¶ LD VSHF DV FRPH WR D FORVH K QW YH H KH U W IWH D QJ OR DQG XODU LV IRU HYHU\ FKLOG DF FW SH 6 WD DQ 6 H\ 6\GQ l of us. the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;inner-childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in al

RE? WANT MrO an affordable

WW39071

All this happiness fo K ZLOO LQFOXGH IODW HQWU\ WLFNHW ZKLF V ² DQG RI DOO ULGHV DQG DFWLYLWLH

NLQ FRXUVH IUHH SDU J

www.sydneysantaspectacular.com sydneysantaspectacular@yahoo.com.au 0472-594-182 www.facebook.com/sydneysantaspectacular

39

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

FINE MUSIC, DRAMA

Q THEATRE

The magic of The King recreated on stage at Workers

COMPOSED BY Ann Boyd Ross Edwards Percy Grainger Elena Kats-Chernin Peter Sculthorpe

EMILY FESZCZUK

D

ue to overwhelming demand, ‘Elvis an American Trilogy’, the show that embodies the essence of The King, is back.

Three of the world’s leading Elvis performers will take the audience on a spellbinding journey through the many eras of The King, a 20th century icon and one of the world’s most recognisable figures.

The show begins with Vic Trevino Junior, who is returning to Australia for his fifth tour. Vic captures the audience with his raw rockabilly sound and feel combined with some of the best Elvis dance moves.

Ben Thompson, winner of the 2018 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest,

Ages 18 months+

BILBY’S BLUEGUM MELODIES Ensemble Offspring, Sydney’s favourite musical mavericks, take toddlers and their families on a journey through the wonderment of chamber music.

Bilby’s Bluegum Melodies is the perfect introduction for your little ones to the vast sonic world of piano, woodwinds and percussion, in an intimate and informal music show. Get your ears and imaginations tickled.

effortlessly recreates him straight out of the Army and into black leather, personifying the period with all the songs and sex appeal that was Elvis.

Since the passing of Elvis there has never been a tribute artist that has captivated the look, moves and sound, more than Justin Shandor.

These three combine to make the ultimate Elvis experience that fans will not want to miss.

‘An American Trilogy’ will be on at Blacktown Workers Club on Saturday, October 19 at 8pm. To book or for more information, call 9830 0600 or visit www.workersclub.com.au.

WED 6 NOV 10AM & 12PM Adult $25 | Children $20 | Family $80

BOOK NOW thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600 WW38530

Almost as good as the real thing EMILY FESZCZUK

T

he greatest Beatles show in the world is coming to Penrith!

2019 marks the 50th anniversary of ‘Abbey Road’ and, to celebrate this milestone, the Bootleg Beatles will be embarking on a world tour that will start in Liverpool, England accompanied by the 70- piece Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

Their show will feature the authentic instrumentation as used on the original recordings. Joining them on stage will be the 16- piece Abbey Road Orchestra conducted by George Ellis.

The tour will honour ‘Abbey Road’

The Black Door Gallery, Penrith’s only Indigenous Art Gallery, also offers a full custom framing service!

Lifetime guarantee and same day framing available.

40

WW37933

4721 4255 | BLACKDOORGALLERY.COM.AU

and celebrate the later hits, while also paying homage to the history of the greatest band in the world, with their customary four costume changes, solo pieces, ballads, rock ‘n’ roll classics and all their timeless masterpieces.

The Bootleg Beatles will captivate audiences nationwide with their uncanny resemblance and musical perfection, capturing the soundscapes of the ‘60s and ‘70s. If you love the Beatles, you will love the Bootleg Beatles. Almost mistakable for the real deal, don’t miss this unforgettable show.

The Bootleg Beatles will be on at the EVAN Theatre on Friday, November 1 at 8pm. Tickets are $67.15. To book, call 1800 PANTHERS.

WW39222

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

41

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, October 18

Cold Chisel Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Lady Beatle – The Joan From $30, 7.30pm 4723 7611 Bohemian Rhapsody – The Joan From $30, 8pm 4723 7611 Tiki Party – O’Donoghues Free entry, 7pm 47 355 509 Big Radio Dynamite – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Kasey Chambers Penrith Panthers, 1800 061 991 Friday, October 18, 7.30pm, $59.50

Rockin Mustang – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Cazcade Duo – Workers Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 8822 2444 Skyz the Limit – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Ignition Fridays – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 8pm 4736 4466 Hayden Cleary – Red Cow Free entry, 8pm 4721 5666

Saturday, October 19

Big Swing Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Rock City Saints – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Lady Beatle – The Joan From $30, 2pm & 7.30pm 4723 7611 Bon Jovi Show – St Marys RSL Free entry, 9pm 9623 6555 Gypsy – Blue Mountains Theatre & Hub From $32.40, 8pm 4723 5050

Sydney Hotshots Penrith Panthers, 1800 061 991 Saturday, October 19, 10am, $22.20

Sunday, October 20

The Shuffle Boys – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Martys Place – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777 Franky Valentyn – Workers Sports Club Free entry, 2pm 8822 2444 John Romeo – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 1pm 4736 4466

Mad Cow St Marys Band Club, 9623 1211 Saturday, October 26, 9pm, Free entry

Friday, October 25

Celebration Mix – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Blackstar – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 The Breakaways – Workers Sports Club Free entry, 8pm 8822 2444 Dwayne Elix & The Engineers – Blacktown Workers Club Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Elvis An American Trilogy – Blacktown Workers Club $50, 8pm 9830 0600 Time Machine – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Big Way Out – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 9pm 4736 4466 Goodbye Monday – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4734 5555 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Archie – Red Cow Free entry, 7pm 4721 5666 Gypsy Blue Mountains Theatre & Hub, 4723 5050 Sunday, October 20, 2pm, From $32.40

JJ Duo – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Iron Lion – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Gypsy – Blue Mountains Theatre & Hub From $32.40, 8pm 4723 5050 The Frocks – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Johnny V Duo – Workers Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 8822 2444 Hyjinx Band – Workers Hubertus Club Free entry, 7pm 47 734 444 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Ignition Fridays – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 8pm 4736 4466 Royale With Cheese 90’s Tribute O’ Donoghues, 4735 5509 Friday, October 25, 9pm, Free entry

Saturday, October 26

The Best Of The Bee Gees – Penrith Panthers $49.90, 8pm 1800 061 991 Shaylee Wilde – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Laurie Bennett – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Garry Johns & Sydney Funk Collective – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Gypsy – Blue Mountains Theatre & Hub From $32.40, 2pm & 8pm 4723 5050

Rave On – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Groove Kitty – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4734 5555 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 The Bandits – Workers Sports Club Free entry, 8pm 8822 2444 Chris Drummond Duo – Blacktown Workers Club Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Bandcamp 90s & 00s – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9.30pm 9623 1384

Sunday, October 27

Rockin Eddie – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Blackwater – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 5pm 4722 8180 Gypsy – Blue Mountains Theatre & Hub From $32.40, 2pm 4723 5050 Venus 2 – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777 Power Of Two Duo – Workers Sports Club Free entry, 2pm 8822 2444 Muscle Car Show Sydney Motorsport Park, 0418 654 402 Sunday, October 27, 9am, Free entry

1

$

42

WW38331

each

O D UST

M

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 St Marys Probus Club Second Tuesday of each month • 0411 248 149 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Penrith Museum of Printing Saturdays from 10am-2pm Pen Paceway • 0415 625 573

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Nepean Retired Men’s Club Third Wednesday of each month • 0401 507 260 Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Penrith Red Cross Branch Second Thursday of each month • 9623 6702

Car lovers delight at Museum of Fire this Sunday Bring the whole family down to the Museum of Fire to celebrate the 33rd All Chrysler Day. Featuring pre-war Chryslers along with modern models, it is great for owners or simply someone who likes old cars. A fun day for enthusiasts with over 200 vehicles but also a family day with free entry and rides for children under the age of 12. The car club welcomes you to come along and be part of the day. It is on this Sunday, October 20 from 8am to 3pm. Tickets are $5. Call 4731 3000.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

CWA Annual Meeting October 28 from 9.30am CWA Rooms Penrith South Probus Club Third Thursday of each month 4729 2119 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143

Peter Cousens sings in Penrith

Head to the eight week drawing school workshop at Penrith Regional Gallery starting on Wednesday, October 23 at 4pm. Call 4735 1100.

Don’t miss Morning Melodies at The Joan with Peter Cousens on Wednesday, October 23 at 10am. Tickets are $20. Call 4723 7611.

BEER BREWING  ...................................................................

DISTILLING  ...................................................................

CIDER AND SOFT DRINKS  ...................................................................

CHEESE MAKING  ...................................................................

YOGHURT AND KEFIR  ...................................................................

TOFU  ...................................................................

SAUSAGES SMOKING CURING  ...................................................................

COFFEE ROASTING  ...................................................................

FOOD PRESERVING  ...................................................................

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE FOODS  ...................................................................

CHOCOLATE MAKING  ...................................................................

WINE AND MEAD MAKING  ...................................................................

English lessons Mondays and Fridays All levels • 4721 2124

more than just homebrew • Cheese Kits • Beer Making Kits • Jerky Making Kits • Smoker Boxes

Ph: 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Hwy Kingswood

• Bacon Kits • Spirit and Liqueur Essences • Chocolate Making Kits

www.countrybrewer.com.au

WW37711

SPECIALISING IN

Learn to draw thanks to new workshop

43

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

At the movies...

Girl power flick fails to deliver HUSTLERS  1 hour, 44 mins EMILY FESZCZUK

‘Hustlers’ joins the long list of films that start off strong, but ultimately lose their way and deliver an unsatisfying finale.

Inspired by a real magazine article, ‘Hustlers’ follows a crew of savvy former strip club employees lead by Ramona (Jennifer Lopez), who band together to turn the tables on their Wall Street clients after the financial crisis.

The beginning of the film was very fast paced with Destiny (played by Constance Wu) experiencing the heightened life of working in a strip club.

From here ‘Hustlers’ had plenty of

glamorous and girl power moments, but as the strippers’ plan fell apart around half- way through the film, the plot went in the same direction.

The story slowed right down and took a turn trying to be a more emotional look at these women, but it just didn’t do it justice.

There needed to be more foundation with the two leads’ relationships in the build- up, but that was skimmed over.

The story is interesting with a strong female cast including Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer and appearances from rapper Cardi B and singer Lizzo, but sadly the writing and directing

by Lorene Scafaria didn’t deliver what was promised.

WRITTEN AND CREATED BY Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Scott

COMEDY, MUSIC Q THEATRE

WITH Simon Burke Drew Forsythe A SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY PRODUCTION

THE WHARF REVUE 2019

Back with a bang.

The all-singing, all-dancing, side-splittingly funny solution to all the world’s problems returns for another year of satirical genius. The West is crumbling, democracy is besieged and the world is run by morons with funny hair. You have to laugh. And that’s exactly what The Wharf Revue delivers. The indefatigable team is back once more to dig through the year’s political dirt and unearth comedy gold.

THUR 31 OCT 7.30PM | FRI 1 NOV 7.30PM SAT 2 NOV 2PM & 7.30PM Standard $70 | Concession $65 | Under 30s $30

BOOK NOW | thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600

44

WW38234

WW39053

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

ADVERTISEMENT

Dine under the stars Be treated to live entertainment while helping the community Indulge in a delicious 6 course tasting dinner under the stars on Riley Street at Westfield Penrith to raise funds for the McGrath Breast Care Nurses as part of the Pink Up Your Town initiative! 100% of ticket sales and all funds raised on the evening will go to this amazing cause.

Riley Street will be closed down to traffic and transformed into a sea of pink with a long table running down the middle. Upon arrival, walk the pink carpet with your glass of pimm’s before you dine under a beautifully dressed pink canopy finished with dreamy lighting. Dishes from Sittanos, The Bavarian, Fratelli Fresh and Mad Mex have been generously donated that enables the full cost of the tickets to be donated to this wonderful cause.

On the evening, guests will also enjoy live entertainment with a saxophonist, inspiring guest speakers and a silent auction with some great items donated by Westfield Penrith retailers.

The other end of Riley Street opposite Gelato Messina, will be closed off with a

Free Family Fun Zone active between 5pm – 8pm! Everyone’s favourite PAW Patrol character Skye will be visiting for the kids to meet, there will be free face painting, balloon bending, pink fairy floss, music and fun games by Australian Geographic.

This is a night not to be missed and a great way to be part of something special in

the Penrith community to make a real difference for those who need it the most.

Limited seats/tickets are available.

Book your tickets today and view the menu at westfield.com.au/Penrith

WW39194

45

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

LUNCH FROM

DINNER FROM

$65

$95

PER P E R S O N

BOOK

NOW

PER P E R S O N

P R I VAT E BOAT FROM

$125 PER P E R S O N

C A P TA I N COO K .COM . AU C A LL 0 2 9 2 0 6 1111

Captain Cook Cruises Pty Ltd, Circular Quay Wharf 6, Sydney NSW 2000 | sydney@captaincook.com.au | 61 2 9206 1111 | captaincook.com.au

46

Special terms & conditions apply. Refer website for full details.

WW38563

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

10 has finally found its new set of 

judges for next year’s season of ‘MasterChef Australia’. Jock Zonfrillo, Melissa Leong and Andy Allen will take the helm of the show that celebrates food and the love of food. The usual format of the hit program is changing however, with the best contestants from the past 11 seasons returning to the kitchen in an all-stars version. ‘MasterChef: Back to Win’ will premiere in mid-2020.

It feels like forever since we saw the 

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

pilot episode but ‘Trial By Kyle’ is finally hitting screens on Thursday, October 24 at 8.30pm. In the series, the popular KIIS FM host dishes out his own mediation on assorted civil disputes. According to 10, all parties involved have signed an arbitration agreement stating that the show’s ruling is final and Kyle’s verdict must be upheld. I’ll certainly be tuning in!

Rumours are swirling that Channel 

Seven could revive the ‘Midday’ show. It’s understood a rebooted version could be very different to what you may be used to as well – so less big band and more advertorials? Probably.

OCTOBER 24

8.30PM

It only feels like yesterday that 

producers were asking for applicants but ‘The Amazing Race Australia’ will hit screens on Monday, October 28 at 7.30pm. Hosted by Beau Ryan, 11 teams will race around the world in pursuit of $250,000.

tention?’, ‘Hughesy, We Have A Problem’, ‘Five Bedrooms’, ‘Kinne Tonight’, ‘Trial

By Kyle’, ‘Neighbours’, ‘Celebrity Name Game’ and ‘Bondi Rescue’.

Also at its Upfronts, 10 revealed hit 

of Atlanta’ and ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’ will premiere on Arena on Monday, November 4 and Thursday, November 7 respectively. The new seasons will screen the same day as the US.

series ‘The Masked Singer’ will return for another year along with two seasons of ‘Australian Survivor’, which will include an all-stars version. 2018 Pilot Week show ‘Drunk History’ will also be proceeding to series but no word yet if any of this year’s Pilot Week offerings will be green-lit. Pilot Week will also be returning in 2020.

10 has revealed its slate of shows at its 

‘Christmas with The Australian 

New seasons of ‘The Real Housewives 

2020 Upfronts. Popular shows returning next year include ‘The Bachelor’, ‘The Bachelorette’, ‘Bachelor in Paradise’, ‘Dancing with the Stars’, ‘I’m a Celebrity’, ‘Gogglebox’, ‘Have You Been Paying At-

OCTOBER 28 7.30PM THE AMAZING RACE AUSTRALIA

TRIAL BY KYLE, 10

Women’s Weekly’ is heading to 10 for the first time with its annual mix of recipes, gift ideas and decorating. Sarah Harris will host the one-hour special on Monday, December 16 at 7.30pm.

FINE MUSIC, DRAMA

Q THEATRE

COMPOSED BY Ann Boyd Ross Edwards Percy Grainger Elena Kats-Chernin Peter Sculthorpe

Ages 18 months+

BILBY’S BLUEGUM MELODIES Ensemble Offspring, Sydney’s favourite musical mavericks, take toddlers and their families on a journey through the wonderment of chamber music.

WED 6 NOV 10AM & 12PM KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LTD 1490 Elizabeth Drive | Kemps Creek | Phone: 9826 1375 Email: functions@kcsb.com.au | Website: www.kcsb.com.au

WW37892

Adult $25 | Children $20 | Family $80

WW38235

Bilby’s Bluegum Melodies is the perfect introduction for your little ones to the vast sonic world of piano, woodwinds and percussion, in an intimate and informal music show. Get your ears and imaginations tickled.

BOOK NOW thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600

47

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

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

1

Crossword ACROSS

DOWN

1. Bullets 4. Incessantly (2,3,2) 8. Actress, ... Winslet 11. Imp-like 13. Shade of brown 15. Roman III 17. Eat late in the evening 18. Nifty 20. Yahoo!

21. Valuable quality 24. Striped cat 27. Witness (event) 28. Sumptuous 30. Common solvent 31. Lease again 33. Pollen-producing part 34. Tatters 35. Inflated promotion 36. Musty 39. Fears 42. Singer, ... Springsteen 44. Peruse 45. Binge 46. Locks 48. Low-cost 49. Persona non ...

50. Strait-laced 52. Crawled, went on all ...

54. Heavy soil type 55. Actor, Matt ...

56. Show (movie) 57. Hearing-impaired 60. Inactive 62. Small islands 65. Yellow fruit 67. Fairy 69. Nudge 70. Respite from combat (1,3,1) 72. Cereal grass 73. Look unblinkingly 75. Strong wind gust 77. Bizarre 79. Stages 81. S African ruling party (1,1,1) 82. These or ...

84. Possibly 85. Veneer 86. Kick out 87. Floral memorial rings 88. Please reply (1,1,1,1)

1. Affectedly cultured 2. Oscar-winner, ...

Streep 3. Bullfight cheer 4. Obligation 5. Classic writer, Jane ...

6. Downward distances 7. Deaden 8. Wooden barrel 9. Come up 10. Fencing blade 12. Banquet 14. Barked (of hounds) 16. Content 19. Divulge (3,2) 22. Unnerved 23. Corrects (text) 25. Aground 26. Gap 29. Second-hand vehicle (4,3) 32. Acid drug (1,1,1) 35. Incubated 37. Fine display 38. Sing-along bar amusement 40. Speedy 41. Tea stirrer 42. Lagers 43. Two under par 44. Old photo colour 47. Persian 51. Croquet club 52. Rear another’s child 53. Scribble 54. Spreading conifer trees 58. Citizen living overseas 59. Secure 61. Peers 63. Coward 64. Corrupt goings-on 65. Lynx 66. Dapper 68. Single things 71. Room exits 72. Knuckle of veal stew, ... bucco 74. Afresh 76. Sickens 78. Pirates Of The Caribbean star, Johnny ...

80. Gently touch 83. Him or ...

2

3

11

15

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

21

28

22

23

29

25

30

27

31

32

34

36

40

41

44

42

45

38

46

47

49

50

51

52

53

55

58

67

54

56

59

62

60

63

64

68

73

79

65

70

74

80

75

71

76

81

84

61

66

69

72

86

37

43

48

57

19

26

35

39

10

18

24

33

9

14

17

20

Last week’s solution

4

77

82

78

83

85

87

Sudoku brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

88

creative A U

S T

R

A

L

I

A

sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au 4722 2998

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

Last week’s Sudoku solution

48

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

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

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

Theme: ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS ALVIN BRAINY CHARMING CHIPMUNK COMEDY DAVID FAMILY FUN FUNKY TOWN GUITAR LOVING MUSIC NUISANCE SEVILLE SIMON SING SONGS STAR SWEET TALENT THEODORE TRIO TROUBLE WAFFLES WILD Last week’s Word Search solution

Test your knowledge about the TV show ‘Friends’ in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. To get over Richard, what did Monica start making?

2. What was wrong with the couch Ross returned to the store?

3. How many long- stemmed roses did Ross send to Emily?

4. What was the name of the

photographer who almost moved in with Chandler?

5. Which of the girls did Joey mistakenly see in the shower?

6. How many lasagnas did Monica make for her aunt?

7. On what Australian network did ‘Friends’ first air?

ANSWERS 1. Jam 2. It was cut in half 3. 72 4. Eric 5. Monica 6. 12 7. Channel 7

Trivia Quiz

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (PG Mild fantasy themes and violence, some scenes may scare young children)

Daily except Wed: 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 3:50PM, 6:40PM, 8:00PM, 9:20PM. Wed: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 3:50PM, 6:40PM, 8:00PM, 9:20PM.

PENRITH

Zombieland 2: Double Tap (MA15 Strong horror violence)

SESSIONS VALID 17TH TO 23ND OCTOBER

Daily: 10:20AM, 1:10PM, 3:50PM, 6:20PM, 9:30PM

Hustlers (MA15 Strong sexual references, coarse language and nudity) WW38935

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

Daily except Wed: 10:20AM, 12:50PM, 3:30PM, 6:10PM, 8:50PM. Wed: 10:10AM, 12:50PM, 3:30PM, 6:10PM, 8:50PM.

49

50

WW39074

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

WEEKENDER LIVING PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

HOROSCOPES LIBRA BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOHO ASTRO

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE DAILY POSTS AT WWW.BOHOASTRO.COM TWITTER @JOMADELINEMOORE © JOANNE MADELINE MOORE 2019

AQUARIUS

PISCES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Do you love your work and does your job stimulate your Aquarian creativity? On Wednesday, take the time to re-evaluate your professional position and options, as the Sun moves through your career zone for the next four weeks. Friday is a fabulous day to slow down and look within, as you meditate, contemplate or ruminate. Your intuition will point you in the right direction.

When it comes to plans for the future, you’re full of innovative ideas and creative schemes. But can you tell the difference between an inspiring daydream and a dodgy delusion? Pluto demands that you dig deep and set substantial goals that are worthy of your talents. And strive to get the balance right between being impulsive, and taking thoughtful action.

ARIES MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

This week Rams can expect a rollicking ride, as your motivation levels fluctuate.

Is a work colleague or loved one being difficult and demanding? Don’t be too hard on them … they have a lot on their plate. Friday is fabulous for financial matters and taking care of business but you’ll feel a bit stir-crazy on the weekend.

Try channelling your fiery energy and ambition into challenging projects.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Monday night favours friendship and lashings of romance. When dealing with others, being kind of heart – and offering sensible advice – is a winning double. The Venus/Neptune trine also helps you empathise with family, friends and colleagues who are experiencing difficulties. Whereas Friday’s Venus/Pluto link encourages deep emotions, intense connections and plenty of passion.

The Sun, Mercury and Venus are visiting your wellbeing zone, so be proactive about finding a fitness routine that keeps you motivated. And choose healthy food options that you actually enjoy eating!

Attached Twins – are you stuck in a relationship rut? Jupiter encourages you to be more adventurous with your partner.

Single? Don’t be dazzled by bulging pecs or a substantial bank balance.

LEO

Many Crabs will be alarmingly charming as you make family and friends feel extra special. Venus also stimulates your love of the good things in life, as you enjoy convivial company, beautiful surroundings, fine food and stylish fashion. But avoid the tendency to worry and obsess about something that’s out of your control. As Mary Engelbreit said: “If you don’t like something, change it”.

VIRGO

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Are your goals and dreams for the future ambitious enough? This week’s stars favour ruminating over big-picture ideas.

Romantic liaisons are likely and friendships are favoured. But there’s no room for false modesty or passive procrastination as you enjoy talking, texting, posting, promoting and socialising. As Katy Perry said: “If you’re presenting yourself with confidence, you can pull off anything”.

Have you been sitting on the sidelines?

This week the Sun joins Venus and Mercury in your sign. So sarcasm and sulking are out, and buoyant joie de vivre is in! There’s much to look forward to as you attract good luck, acknowledge a success or celebrate a milestone. It’s also time to be as proactive and positive as you can manage.As Pablo Picasso said: “One must act in painting as in life, directly”.

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

With the Sun, Mercury and Venus moving through your wealth zone, tap into the abundance that is all around you – and not just on a financial level. It’s time to combine your outer creativity with your inner strength, so that you shine brightly for all the world to see. Strong self-esteem and self-acceptance is your Libran birthright! As Katy Perry said: “Self-acceptance is the key to be truly free”.

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The planetary patterns promise a period of nurturing old friendships and establishing new ones. Creativity is high, as you tap into the magical muse within. With the Sun, Mercury and Venus visiting your domestic zone, strive to be more proactive and diplomatic about a current family problem. Many domestically-inclined Cats are in the mood to de-clutter, decorate or renovate.

CAPRICORN

You’re keen to be in charge but are you being the boss – or just plain bossy? This week the celestial patterns encourage you to utilise your leadership skills in more subtle, disciplined and diplomatic ways that result in cooperation rather than consternation! Your creativity, compassion and spiritual side are stimulated, as you connect with your inner muse or help a friend in need.

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Promising professional and business opportunities are around, and clever Capricorns will examine all possibilities in a sensible and realistic light. With Mercury, Venus and the Sun in your hopes and wishes zone, it’s important to have an ambitious long-term goal that you’re working towards. You need to be patient, as you focus on bringing your dreams down to earth via a practical plan.

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

OPEN 7 DAYS MOST PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

WW37184

$$$$ buyers of all Ferrous SYDNEY - 9748 0611 PENRITH - 4732 1683 34 PEACHTREE ROAD, PENRITH FAX - 4721 7658 and Non-Ferrous Metals (Off Castlereagh Road) 6 BLIGH STREET, AUBURN PICK-UP SERVICE AVAILABLE

51

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

MONEY MATTERS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES

ALEX MCKENZIE • 4704 8585

Self-employed people must not forget about superannuation

C

ompulsory superannuation contributions ensure that most of us are mandated to save a large portion of our income to provide for our retirement. This is not the case for the self-employed.

Some self-employed people will be able to sell their business and use these funds for retirement. This is not an option for lots of businesses. In many cases, the business value is closely linked to the owner, effectively they ARE the business.

In these cases, without the owner, the business is difficult to sell.

Businesses that operate as a company are required to pay the owner’s superannuation on income they earn for working in the business. This ensures that many self- employed people are mandated to make some provisions for their retirement. However, it is a common strategy for business owners to pay themselves a modest income and take profits from the company in the form of dividends or director fees, neither of which requires compulsory super payments.

The self- employed need to proactively

prepare for their retirement. The areas to build wealth include making superannuation contributions, acquiring assets outside superannuation and creating value in the business.

Superannuation has many taxation benefits and is specifically designed for retirement. All contributions are tax

deductible; the earnings inside taxation are taxed concessionally. It is easy to invest savings in line with your individual needs and risk tolerances. Preservation means those funds aren’t available to be accessed, which ensures they will be there at retirement.

Building wealth outside super, although

not as tax effective as superannuation in most cases, enables you to continue to have access to those assets. Given that the self- employed often have less stable income, the ability to access these assets often outweighs the tax benefits of the super system.

The type and nature of the business greatly affects the ability to sell the business. Businesses in some industries are very easy to sell and have high values.

Financial planning businesses fall into this category. Other industries however, are much more difficult to create value.

There are a number of strategies to increase the value of a business. Things like becoming less key person dependant, creating a succession plan and having well defined practices that would allow an outsider to come and run your business are all methods to extract value from your business.

If you are self- employed it is extremely important to be aware that you must actively save for your retirement. Otherwise you run the risk of not being able to fund the lifestyle you imagined.

Everything you want and more at SEW MANY STITCHES – your sewing machine specialists!

Bringing to you the very latest in Brother technology...

Scan N Cut DX-SDX1200 • Built-in scanner – up to 300 DPI • Wireless network ready • Large 12” x 24” scanning and cutting area • Reads SVG and PHC data • Stand-alone paper and fabric cutting machine, no PC required

Innov-is A80

Shop 4/level 2, 147 Queen Street, Campbelltown Ph 4628 4437 52

www.sewmanystitches.com.au

ONL 1 HO Y U FRO R PENR M ITH!

WW37307

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

ALLAN HAMLIN ALLAN.HAMLIN@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU WWW.ALLANHAMLIN.COM.AU

Connecting with loved ones who have passed into the Spirit World Hello Allan, I would like to connect with my father.

Greg, Glenmore Park Immediately I sense a very strong energy that stands next to me as I reach out to the Spirit World to make a connection. This energy was quite stoic and perhaps even stern when disciplining children. Then, just as suddenly, I feel light headed and balance issues come to mind as my link continues to build with this Spirit.

Your father, who now strengthens his connection with me, asks me to pass on his apologies for leaving some things left unsaid before he passed. There may have been some frustration about his inability to contribute to the family beyond a certain point. However, I feel that you still miss his conversations and his guidance.

He talks of a name sounding like ‘Andy’ or ‘Adam’ and ‘Thomas’, in reference to your job and he seems to be very interested in your work life and career.

Your father encourages you to consider employment opportunities and getting back to basics in your own life.

This means working hard and then living life well as the reward. When you reach this point and are happy with your work/life balance I hear your father say the words ‘spend don’t save’ and he has a little laugh to himself. The year 1958/59 seems to be an important time for him and he shows me an old EH Holden. He enjoyed engineering, cars and construction of all kinds.

A new energy now presents itself and it is the energy of another gentleman which you would know as your grandfather. The first memory he brings to me is of “not letting them get the house” or fighting the banks for the money. He talks of your mother and becomes emotional and I can sense that you also have some mixed emotions about the important women in your life.

Your grandfather makes me feel proud of your intelligence and what you have already achieved so far. As both your grandfather and father begin to pull back into the world of spirit, your father wants to give you an item that helps you connect to him. I hear your father say “have my

ring son”. He does not need to push you, as the drive and passion you have will bring the success you deserve and crave.

He just smiles as he departs and whistles a happy little tune.

Hello Allan, I would like to connect with my husband.

Sue, South Penrith The Spirit World is amazing Sue, we just have to think of our loved ones and immediately they are right beside us. I can see an image of your husband holding his stomach and complaining of pain and/or a medication.

He was a generous man and if it was in his power to fulfil your wishes he would do his best to do so. I also feel like he viewed life as a fortunate experience full of adventure. He shows me the house of his dreams and talks of the retirement plans you had together and some of these plans I feel that you should still try to fulfil. I feel that your financial situation and being independent in retirement was important to ensure that those dreams came true.

I sense that he now takes care of some children in the Spirit World that are not his own and his task is to take care of, mentor and assist in the mental care of youth both in the Spirit World and in this world.

In my mind, he shows me your home and opens up the cupboard to show me his shoes and they seem to have sentimental meaning to you. He talks about you getting married again or finding a partner because he wants to see you smile and hold hands with someone who loves you as much as he did.

A very comforting energy surrounds him and he says he is happy to wait many years before meeting again. There is a young girl with a name sounding like ‘Sharon’, that he wishes to say hello to, and he was with her in spirit when she went to the doctor’s appointment.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

PSYCHIC CONNECTIONS

Want a reading? Email Allan and include your full name, date of birth and your question. Please note your first name plus your question and reading may appear in print.

NEPEAN FOOD SERVICES INC (Meals on Wheels)

Annual General Meeting DATE AMENDMENT

Be one step k ahead and book with Eggcellentt Services!

Eggcellent Services Pty Ltd provides a variety of services to the Western Sydney area including Pest Control, Lawn Care and Rubbish Removal.

We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service, high quality products and value for money spent.

We are friendly, reliable and know how important it is to have fast and simple communication with all our new and existing clients.

We are always flexible around our customer’s needs, time schedules and availability and do our best to meet them.

WW39223

Wednesday 13 November 2019 Commencing at 12.00pm for a light lunch, AGM to commence at 12.30pm Regentville Hall 16 Jeanette Street REGENTVILLE RSVP by 30 October 2019 on 4733 7200 or admin@nepeanfoodservices.org.au If you wish to become a member of Nepean Food Services please contact the office by 30 October 2019 on 4733 7200 or email admin@nepeanfoodservices.org.au to complete a membership application. A $2.20 membership fee is applicable.

We all love spring – including spiders and cockroaches!

WW38659

53

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

SWIM SAFETY

VIEW FROM ABOVE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE & EVA BORY’S SWIM SCHOOL

GLENMORE PARK ANGLICAN CHURCH

J ULIE SHELDR AKE • 4730 89 00

How swimming can help you get back in shape

O

besity in Australia has risen by 27 per cent over the past decade with three per cent of adults, nine per cent of young people and four per cent of children now considered obese across the country, and 66 per cent of all Australians now falling into the weight brackets of overweight or obese. Locally, 70 per cent of adults and 26 per cent of children are considered overweight or obese.

While I think we are all guilty of piling on a few kilos over the winter months (Tim Tam anyone?), ignoring weight gain can lead to major health problems, placing us at a much higher risk of diabetes, some cancers, heart disease, arthritis and dementia.

If you are looking to reverse weight gain and improve fitness, the water is a great place to start. Water-based exercise burns calories, and provides low impact resistance, making it perfect for weight loss. Body weight is supported by the

REV JOHN LAVENDER • GPA.CHURCH

water around you, and water is 15 times more resistant than air, so working out in a pool for 30 minutes gives you similar benefits of a two- hour, land- based workout.

So what options are there to exercise in the water? Lap swimming is the ultimate all-in-one exercise, incinerating calories whilst increasing flexibility and muscle endurance. Muscles are strengthened and toned as a result of water resistance, core strength is improved, and the nature of breathing whilst swimming promotes greater lung capacity.

Joining a local swim club is a fun and social way to swim for fitness, and we also run weekly classes available for children and teenagers who like to swim for fitness, without the training schedule and competitive aspect that comes with squad swimming.

Aquarobics is another great option, which can be highly challenging and effective, and now attracts a mixed audience of participants across ages, genders and Aquarobics class types, ranging from gentle exercise to high intensity, tabata and deep water training.

If you prefer to be outdoors and are confident in the water, the waves at the beach provide both turbulence and resistance, constantly challenging the whole body to remain upright or swim through the water.

Do you know how much God really cares about you?

H

ow can you be sure that God cares about you? That he loves you?

The Apostle John, in his book of the Bible, describes what happened, as a few hours before his brutal crucifixion, Jesus gathered his 12 disciples together.

John tells us how Jesus was about to show “the full extent of his love” for his disciples.

With the evening meal being served, we read how Jesus “got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.” He then proceeded, one at a time “to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel wrapped around him.”

Peter, one of the 12, shocked that someone as great as Jesus would do something so lowly, at first refused. But Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

John goes on to tell us how this foot washing, while a humble act of service,

HEALTHY LIVING

GET OUT OF COMPUTER TROUBLE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ONE POINT HEALTH L AUREN BR AGG • 4732 518 8

Why nail salons can do you more harm than good

FREE!

O

54

1300 525 587 (1300 KALL US) sales@nortec.com.au nortec.com.au

WW35769

Put that cheque book away! If you are a small business owner with 10 or more PCs, we want to give you TWO free hours of computer support to help you solve any computer problem you are experiencing, or to . . .

• Diagnose slow, unstable PCs • Check your network’s security against hackers, theft & viruses • Scan and remove viruses etc • Check your network’s back-up • Diagnose any network problem • Discuss a project or upgrade

pointed to the greater act of washing, the cleansing Jesus was about to bring through his sacrificial death on the cross.

The Bible declares that none of us have treated God as we should. We keep him at arm’s length, not looking to him, nor honouring him as we should. This is called sin.

Sin stains our relationship with God, so that if we are to have friendship with God, we need to be made clean, forgiven, by having our sin washed away.

This is exactly what Jesus does in his death on the cross, taking on himself our guilt and sin, making us clean and giving anyone who would trust in him a fresh start in life.

It is this loving act of sacrifice which shows exactly how much Jesus really does loves you!

ver the next few weeks I will be addressing some foot issues that arise heading into summer. If you find that your feet struggle in the warmer months, stay tuned.

This time of the year we have a lot of patients attending to have their feet tidied up after keeping their feet hidden for months over winter.

In this article I wanted to outline a few reasons why it’s not recommended to go to the nail bar to have your feet “cleaned up”.

Are the instruments sterile?

In our clinics all our podiatry equipment is sterilised following the National Infection Control Guidelines. A new set of sterilised instruments is used for each patient. Dirty instruments is a large factor in the spread of infection.

It’s difficult to know in these nail salons what their regulations are, and if the equipment they’re using on you has been used on the person beforehand.

Are they cutting your nails right?

Podiatrists are university trained to cut and manage your nails the correct way.

Nail salons focus on aesthetics, which can mean that sometimes the nail gets trimmed too far down the side. This can lead to ingrown toenails which are quite painful. Luckily, we treat these every day but it is still important to have them cut correctly in the first place.

Fungal infections When you have your nails painted remember that whatever nail polish colour you choose, that nail polish brush has been used on many other toenails before yours. It is highly likely that it has come into contact with fungal toenails somewhere along the line.

Have you ever had a pedicure and noticed when the nail polish was removed that there are white spots on the surface? Or, your nails have become discoloured or thickened. This is likely a fungal nail infection and it can be stubborn and difficult to treat. It is not good for your nail to be covered in polish for weeks.

GREENCROSS COREEN AVENUE

NICOLE MCMILLAN • 4731 3055

Skin disorders that could be causing pain and discomfort to your dog

Atopy results in itching, especially in skin folds like the flanks and armpits.

Over time it progresses to infection and generalised dermatitis. Many of these microscopic allergens penetrate through the skin directly as dogs with this condition often have a genetically inherited skin barrier defect.

Food allergy dermatitis: This condition usually develops from one year of age

onwards. If you suspect your dog may be suffering a food allergy, it is recommended to change to a strict food elimination trial diet for three months. This usually involves feeding your dog a sole protein diet using food that your pet has never had before, e.g. kangaroo and pumpkin, and nothing else. If the symptoms improve over this time, there is a possibility your dog has a food allergy. At the end of this time, test

your dog by going back to the regular diet and monitor if symptoms recur. If they do, chances are it is a food allergy. The most common allergens in dogs in Australia are beef, chicken and wheat.

Mange: Mange is a skin disease of dogs, which is commonly caused by two types of mites: Demodex or Scabies.

Hot spots: Hot spots are another common skin disease seen on dogs. Its medical name is traumatic pyodermatitis.

It usually appears as a moist patch of hair loss on your dog’s skin that is very itchy.

Often, it can discharge of pus, which tends to smell bad. They can be caused by anything that irritates your dog’s skin including infections, wounds, flea bites, etc, leading to the dog chewing at the skin. It then gets worse through persistent chewing and licking, which in turn causes further infection and itching. These wounds usually end up with a secondary bacterial infection.

If your pet is suffering from itchy or irritated skin, contact Greencross Coreen Ave on 4731 3055 to arrange an appointment today.

S S ME

WW35939

S

kin disease and disorders are a common problem seen in pets.

The condition of your pet’s coat and skin is an important indicator of their overall health. As with allergies or skin reactions in people, these conditions can vary from acute, self- limiting problems to chronic or long- lasting problems requiring life-long treatment.

Dogs suffer from a variety of different skin conditions and allergies that routinely need a vet’s attention. Here are five common skin conditions found in dogs: Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD): This is the most common skin disease in pets, and results from an allergic or hypersensitivity reaction to the flea’s saliva during feeding.

Contrary to popular belief, dogs don’t need a huge flea burden to develop a reaction, and in fact can develop FAD if they have only one to two fleas on their body.

Atopic dermatitis (Atopy): Atopy is caused by a general allergic or hypersensitive reaction to an indoor or environmental allergen. This can include plants, pollen, dust mites and mould spores.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

PET HEALTH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

1906

Coreen Avenue

MO

DEL PARK

Passionate about Pets Extended consulting hours Phone for an appointment We are Australia’s largest and oldest model engineering organisaƟon, and we invite you to come experience the fun and excitement on Sunday, 27th of October.

Set on 25 acres of land, The Model Park boasts fun acƟviƟes for the enƟre family. With slot-car tracks, ponds for RC boats, mini steam train rides, and an area to fly RC planes, and a variety of other experiences available, there’s something for everyone!

With BBQ faciliƟes on site, The Model Park is a great opportunity for a family day out! On-leash dogs welcome.

Exclusive Cat Clinic including boarding Best Behaviour Puppy Programs

WW38664

Indoor Park with Hydrobath

Unit 2 & 3/117 Coreen Avenue, Penrith 4731 3055 | www.greencrossvet.com.au

The Society has membership opportuni es available Gate fee is $15 per car $5 discount off the entry fee if a copy is presented at the gate Address: 869 Luddenham Road, Luddenham

For more informa on: www.modelpark.org.au

55

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

TRAVEL

Camping with a difference: Overnight stay in a bubble is a treat for the senses

I

BUBBLE TENT Words Nathan Taylor Photo Monique Lacaze More Info bubbletentaustralia .com

f you love mother nature, stargazing and a touch of camping – or should I say glamping – then staying overnight in a Bubbletent in the middle of nowhere is probably for you.

Recently, my fiancé and I travelled twoand-a-half hours west of Penrith to spend a night under the stars. While sleeping outdoors isn’t our usual thing, we jumped at the chance to experience one of the most unique glamping set-ups we’ve ever seen.

Bubble origins Bubblehosts Sonny and Mayu’s Bubbletent journey began several years ago on a trip to Lake Tekapo, New Zealand – one of the best places to stargaze on the planet I’m told. After witnessing an incredible meteorite shower one night the pair were hooked, and desperately wanted to find a spot back home in Australia that provided a similar wonderment – not just by night but by day as well.

The search ended when Sonny and Mayu found a slice of splendour overlooking Capertee Valley – the widest canyon in the world and a mecca for birdwatchers.

And so Bubbletent Australia was born.

Getting there and location My partner and I set off on our Bubbletent journey at about 11am and, after a quick pitstop in Lithgow to get some

“IF YOU COULD CAMP (OR GLAMP) ON MARS, THIS WOULD BE IT!” supplies, arrived in time for our midafternoon check-in.

The exact location of the Bubbletent Australia property is a closely guarded secret but it’s roughly midway between the country towns of Lithgow and Mudgee (don’t worry, in the weeks leading up to your stay, they’ll give you the exact coordinates). When we finally arrived at our Bubbletent, we were greeted with fresh air, breathtaking views and a flock of sheep from the working farm that’s also

part of the property. We felt like we were a million miles away from home.

The glamping experience My partner and I have been together for more than 13 years, we’ve travelled all over the world but have never camped with one another before. Fortunately for us our first camping experience was more glamping than Bear Grylls. When we unzipped our gateway to our bubble, we immediately began our ‘room tour’. Inside was a comfy bed, telescope for stargazing, binoculars for bird watching, tablet with music, a hot water thermos along with T2 tea, a small chillout space and a handy eye mask for the morning sun.

Attached to the main bubble was a separate bathroom that included a pump tap, mirror and compost toilet which, instead of flushing you scoop a generous amount of sawdust to bury your business with – that’s an interesting experience in itself!

Once we got acquainted with our room, I mean bubble, we decided to step outside and check out our surroundings. Close by we found a decked outdoor area to relax, fridge to keep our ciders cold, fire pit for cooking, love swing, wood- fired bathtub and rinsing station. If you could camp (or glamp) on Mars, this would be it!

Handy tips While your Bubbletent site has pretty much everything you need for a comfort-

able stay (like some very handy fire starters), they do not provide you with food aside from a sneaky jar of marshmallows.

So, to avoid a hunger meltdown, pack as much food, drinks and snacks with you before you leave. We stopped off at the Woolworths in nearby Lithgow for our bacon, eggs and pancake mix.

Another good tip is to bring some games, reading material or an iPad to pass the time. While there’s some amazing hikes you can do around the property as well as bird watching during the day, the nights can get a tad tedious if you’re used to being stimulated by technology. Surprisingly, there’s decent phone reception on site, so logging into Netflix shouldn’t be a problem.

Final word Lastly, there are three Bubbletents on the property – Virgo, Cancer and Leo – and each vary in price per night depending on their size and features. I recommend the bubble we stayed in, Virgo. It’s a little pricey but it includes air conditioning unlike the other two.

Due to their size, Bubbletents are perfect for couples looking for a unique romantic adventure ‘off the gird’. So why not make your friends and family super jealous by staying at a Bubbletent on your next getaway. For more information, visit bubbletentaustralia.com.

OFFER ENDING SOON! 7 nights accommodation in Thailand FOR 2 ADULTS. Total was

now

$499

Visit worldaway.com.au to find out more & for terms & conditions.

(02) 8872 9697

WW36148

56

$2,000

WW37864

Awnings

Awnings

WW38789

Alarms

Reach your customers through the power of your local newspaper.

Local people make up to 90% of your customers.

Classified advertising is the most cost effective way to reach them.

Like to know more...

PLANTATION SHUTTERS . CARPORTS AND PATIO AWNINGS . SCREEN AND GLASS ENCLOSURES

MOBILE: 0403011058, PHONE: 4732 6595, EMAIL: dave@davehi.com, FACEBOOK, Dave’s Home Improvements

For your convenience

Blinds

Lic No. 829 19C

We accept!

Call 4722 2998 Be Wise ... Advertise!

Automotive

Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms, Wooden Decks Call Peter Dunn 4735 5055 or 0416 035 645 www.patioman.com.auWW32289

WW38072

CALL DAVE AND SAVE

Ph: 0403 577 431

Est 1989

WW36277

M/l 000103162

WW37535

Free quote

PATIOMAN

Dave’s Home Improvements

Supply, install and service all alarms, cameras, intercoms, antenna’s and all wiring data.

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED

Bathrooms

AUTO CENTRE FULL MECHANICAL WORKSHOP REGO CHECKS LPG & SERVICE

☎ 4721 2500

No tile removal required – Full grout and seal

WW38747

Ȉ Colorbond Carports & Awnings Ȉ Sunrooms & Glass Enclosures Ȉ Timber Decks & Pergolas

p Home Service Dro

Pink & Blue Slips Logbook Service Full Servicing All Work Guaranteed Warranty Safe

IS YOUR SHOWER OR BALCONY LEAKING?

P A T I O S AWNINGS t CARPORTS t DECKS

Lic No 20505

Guaranteed No Mess No Fuss

0412 000 893 www.1choicebm.com.au

Call now for all types of Blinds, Security and Safety doors, Fly Screens, Plantation Shutters & Canvas Awnings.

We also repair Doors, Screens & Blinds.

WW37278

ORTRANTO P/L

STOP LEAKS

WW38301

FREE QUOTES 0416 765 565

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE

Good Old Fashioned Service

TO GET YOUR SUPER DEALS

www.summerbreezeblinds.com.au

CALL NOW

4722 2998

Phone 0407 217 582

Bricklayers

Concrete Contractors

JDN BRICKLAYING

D & J Concrete Resurfacing & Landscaping

‘GET LAID RIGHT’

Wake up to a greener lifestyle!

or Email: djconcreteresurfacing@gmail.com

QUALITY SOLAR INSTALLATIONS FROM LICENSED AND ACCREDITED INSTALLERS

LN: 336266C

Building Contractors

Home Solar Power Systems

LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE BUILDER?

Battery Storage Solar Systems

St Clair Concreting

All concreting needs, driveways, patios, crossovers, paths, coloursealing, stenciling.

Bobcat work & tipper available.

Commercial Solar Power Systems

NO JOB TOO SMALL Free quotes – 30 years experience Lic. No. R66076

0405 107 506 ABN 568 649 24654

WW36016

DECKS • RENOVATIONS • BATHROOMS • CARPENTRY WWW.CHRISLAWLERBUILDING.COM.AU

Catering

WW39030

Ph: Charlie 0404 331 164

- All electrical wiring and repairs

WW38378

WW37464

0405 312 281

ABN: 18342307434

We specialise in concrete resurfacing & landscaping such as spray-on paving, colour sealing, concrete resealing, concrete grinding, non-slip coating, pressure cleaning, concrete garden edging, roof restoration, returfing.

Call Darren on 0403 374 216

Electrical Contractors

- Downlights/Fans/Power points - Hot water repairs

0401 741 474 | info@pepperberrycatering.com.au

www.pepperberrycatering.com.au

- Safety switches/Meter Box upgrade

0416 643 633

solecindustries.com.au Put a Splash of Colour in your ad

Licensed and Insured | Solec Licence 302284c | CEC Accreditation A1331112

Call

4722 2998 Concrete Contractors

WW38035

E P Y T Y N A ICE V R E S CONCRETING Licence No. 82330c Yves Dhyon

A ALLROUND SERVICE

Want to increase cash flow?

Need more Work?

Plain, stencil, coloured driveways & garage slabs Bobcat & tipper available NO JOB TOO SMALL – ALL AREAS 30 Years Experience

Western

Call for a free quote

0412 277 611

or

4735 3339

’

can help advertise your business in our Trades & Services and Classifieds

der

Weeken

FREE QUOTES PROMPT, RELIABLE SERVICE WW37964

• Morning Teas, Lunches, Afternoon Teas, Dinners etc.

• Canapes/ Finger Foods, Platter Service, BuffetStyle Menus, A La Carte Dining etc.

WW37330

• Corporate & Private Catering Services • Any event – no minimal guest numbers • Corporate Meetings, Weddings, Engagements, Birthdays, Seminars, etc.

John Newham

WW38803

Servicing the Nepean & Hawkesbury regions since 2013

Mobile 0414 833 356 Phone/Fax 9833 3563 Licence No. 95571C | ABN 70 510 279 284

Garage Doors & Fittings

Ezy Glide

Garage doors Pty. Ltd.

92 099 831 955 Specialising in: A.B.N: A.C.N: 099 831 955 - Domestic Garage Doors - Remote Controls WW36089 - Repairs and Service Lawrie Sandona Mobile: 0414 822 723

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CALL NOW

4722 2998

TO GET YOUR SUPER DEALS Gardening

Penrith Valley Garden Care All garden and lawn services provided including: * * * * *

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

* * * * *

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

Call Steve on 4735 3142 or

0416 116 602

Driveways, PaƟos, Pathways and Pool Surrounds Coloured or plain concreƟng available

Call Greg on 0408 868 860

Call NOW on

4722 2998

RHS

“Specialists in Landscape Gardening & Design”

ROWLANDS HORTICULTURAL SERVICES • Garden Renovation Specialists • Complete Garden Maintenance Programs • Quality Plants supplied and planted • Turf supplied and laid • Ride-on mower avail.

CALL NOW

0419 993 866

WW39157

For all your concreƟng needs

WW39205

WW36229

For domestic, commercial and body corporate work call Peter Rowlands today for quality, value and service

Peter Rowlands 0419 993 866

Available payment methods

Member - Australian Institute of Horticulture & Horticulturist/Team Member

Western Weekender WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED

ALUMINIUM & GLASS

Plumbers NEPEAN MAINTENANCE PLUMBING

Lic No. 4715C

www.mjpainting.com.au

4733 2525

9006

Guttering & Spouting

9 9 9 9 9

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL â&#x20AC;˘ Fast Clean Service â&#x20AC;˘ Big Or Small Jobs â&#x20AC;˘ Interior & Exterior â&#x20AC;˘ Fully Insured â&#x20AC;˘ Reliable Service â&#x20AC;˘ All Work Done Personally â&#x20AC;˘ Decorative Finishes â&#x20AC;˘ Competitive Prices â&#x20AC;˘ Wallpapering Glenmore Park Lic No. 44995C Over 30 years experience

WW36642

WW35958

We do ď&#x20AC;¸Shower screens ď&#x20AC;¸Mirror wardrobes ď&#x20AC;¸Security doors & grills ď&#x20AC;¸Aluminium windows ď&#x20AC;¸Sliding doors & flyscreens

Call us on 9833

FREE QUOTES

Jason 0417 221 822 â&#x20AC;˘ Mark 0417 223 288

Water & Gas Service Repair Blocked Drains Hot Water Heaters Backflow & TMV Testing Full Plumbing Maintenance

CALL GREG NOW ON: 0400 873 805

WW37947

Glass Merchants & Glaziers

Andrew Downer Plumber Drainer Gas Fitter â&#x20AC;˘ Blocked Drains â&#x20AC;˘ Bathroom Renovations â&#x20AC;˘ Plumbing Maintenance

WW39013

http://westernweekender.com.au/directory/

â&#x20AC;˘ Hot Water Issues â&#x20AC;˘ Storm Water Solutions Lic No: 229122C

Call Andrew 0431 954 035

Refrigeration

LOCAL ELECTRICIAN Electrical & Hot Water Specialists

CALL NOW for a FREE measure & quote

Kitchens

WW39019

WW34220

TRADING OVER 20 YEARS | OVER 40 YEARS TRADE EXPERIENCE

Swimming Pool Maintenance & Repairs

7JTJU PVS TIPXSPPN BU +BDL 8JMMJBNT %SJWF 1FOSJUI ] .POEBZ 'SJEBZ BN QN 4BUVSEBZ BN QN

www.jandlkitchens.com | info@jandlkitchens.com Pest Control

CONTACT: 4735 5322 2/133 RUSSELL ST, EMU PLAINS

We accept!

OVER $500 WORTH OF SERVICING FOR $400 PAY NOW FOR A SPARKLING CLEAN SWIMMING POOL SERVICED THROUGHOUT SUMMER

Email: envirocare1@bigpond.com

Lawn Mowing Services

TOTAL SATISFACTION GUARANTEED WE CARE FOR YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Ph 1800 600 760

*includes 6 monthly services. Chemicals not included.

Plasterers-Plasterboard Fixers

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

Tutoring

Plaster & Plasterboard Supplies

George Larin - Licence #R71555 No Job too big or small Renovation specialist

0424 135 877

Looking for a friendly, clean and professional team for your Plastering & Gyprocking needs?

Benchmark plastering has got it covered, from small patch jobs to new homes and everything in between!

Call us now for a free quote!

WW38959

WW37143

LAWNS MOWED Plasterer Greg 0421 116 663 Will respond to ALL messages

â&#x20AC;˘ Pool and Spa Chemicals â&#x20AC;˘ Free Water Tes ng â&#x20AC;˘ Pool Servicing including Repairs and Spare Parts â&#x20AC;˘ Equipment Installa ons â&#x20AC;˘ Pool Refurbishment

WW36871

WW39107

WW38902

QKM Kitchens Pty Ltd 6/77-79 Batt Street, South Penrith Ph: 02 4732 6262 | qkmkitchens.com.au

OUR TEAM HAS OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

WW35985

PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

FREE QUOTES

WW38005

Eftpos & Credit Cards Available

9670 5885 0425 310 022

We oďŹ&#x20AC;er 24 months t 0GĂ˝DF 'JU PVUT interest free! t 4VQQMZ BOE JOTUBMM t 4VQQMZ POMZ o ĂžBU QBDL PS QSF CVJMU UP PSEFS t 8F PSHBOJTF BMM USBEFT

Ph: 0413 212 041

Trading 6 Days Prompt Reliable Service

For your convenience

PH MARIO PACE FOR A FREE QUOTE

2 - 11 metre Bins

WW37962

WW38570

WW38120

t $VTUPN NBEF JO PVS 1FOSJUI GBDUPSZ t ,JUDIFOT -BVOESJFT t 0VUEPPS BMGSFTDP BSFBT

Call 4722 2998 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Be Wise . . . Advertise!

Transforming your kitchen into new by replacing your benchtops, doors, panels.

Additional cabinets, pantries and laundry ďŹ touts.

ADVERTISING WORKS

4732 4566

Reach your customers through the power of your local newspaper. Local people make up to 90% of your customers. Classified advertising is the most cost effective way to reach them. Like to know more . . .

RE-DO KITCHENS

PH: 9724 1609 or 4733 6035 MOB: 0418 294 998

Rubbish Removers

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED

ATES

1300 686 000 www.SAPPHIRESERVICES.com.au

All home repairs and maintenance No job too big or small PENRITH Call Peter 0410 737 321 LOCAL

Specialising in Domestic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

I S R AL

CALL

ABN 34933562535

ENIOR

WW35907

HANDY FOX

ENQU IRE A BOUT OUR

SPEC S

WW38819

Handyman

Upfront Prices, no surprises Licenced Tradesmen 24/7 Emergency Services General & Emergency Electrical

DAVEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S REFRIGERATION

Lic. No. 335437C

Tutoring for Year 10-12, ATAR Specialists Penrith and surrounds

From $30 per hour Ph: 4701 4947 younggrowth.academy

WW39131

WW37595

â&#x20AC;˘ ROLLED ON SITE â&#x20AC;˘ NO JOINS â&#x20AC;˘ NO LEAKS â&#x20AC;˘ LEAFGUARD â&#x20AC;˘ ALL TYPES OF GUTTERING INSTALLED â&#x20AC;˘ METAL ROOFING â&#x20AC;˘ ROOF RESTORATION

GARAGE SALES

PUBLIC NOTICES

GARAGE SALE Sat, 19th October, 10am-4pm 2 Friedmann Place, South Penrith - Exercise equipment - Children’s clothing - Lawn mowing equipment - Tools - Furniture and more WW39166

PUBLIC NOTICES

BOARD NOMINATIONS

MINING LEASE APPLICATION NoƟce is given in accordance with SecƟon 51A of the Mining Act 1992 and Clause 26 of the Mining RegulaƟon 2016, that Mining Lease ApplicaƟon No 572 (1992) for Clay/Shale and Structural Clay has been lodged with the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment by Hi-Quality Quarry (NSW) Pty Ltd, ACN 104 362 110, over an area of about 15.10 hectares which is located approximately 16.05 kilometres South East of the town of Penrith, in the Parish of Melville, County of Cumberland as shown on the diagram below.

InformaƟon regarding this applicaƟon can be obtained from Hetherington ExploraƟon & Mining Title Services Pty Ltd, Phone Number (02) 9967 4844.

InformaƟon about landholder’s rights is available on the Department’s website: hƩp://www.resourcesandgeoscience.nsw.gov.au/ landholders-and-community/landholders-rights

NOTICE OF NOMINATION Nominations for cand id ates, for election by Penrith Home Club Members, as a Director of the Penrith District Rugby League Football Club Ltd will be open on 21.11.2019 from 10.00am and will close on 5.12.2019 at 10.00am.

WW38677

PUBLIC NOTICES

Nomination forms will be available at Club Reception, Panthers Penrith, 123 Mulgoa Road , Penrith from 7.11.19 at 10.00am. The requirements for nomination and election will be explained in the nomination forms.

We need saleable donaƟons of your clothes, goods & furniture to directly assist people living with cancer in the Penrith Valley region.

There are five positions available. All five current Directors will be re-stand ing for election. If more than five nominations are received, voting for the positions will be conducted in the Foyer, Panthers Penrith 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith on the following dates:

WW39144

Saturday 22.2.20 between 12.00pm and 8.00pm Sunday 23.2.20 between 12.00pm and 6.00pm Monday 24.2.20 between 10.00am and 4.00pm Tuesday 25.2.20 between 10.00am and 12.00pm

To book a pick up Call Gail on 4721 5823

Members elected as Directors of the Penrith District Rugby League Football Club Ltd (ACN 003 908 503) will automatically become Directors of the Penrith Rugby League Club Ltd (ACN 000 578 398).

VOLUNTEER WITH US

volunteer.cancersupport.org.au

BRIAN FLETCHER SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICES

PENRITH DISTRICT RUGBY LEAGUE FOOTBALL CLUB LTD

Senior lady with a small dog and three cats requires temporary accommodation as soon as possible.

Penrith – St Marys area All animals are desexed and house trained.

Rent $200 p/w and a car space is required.

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

NATURAL RESOURCES ACCCESS REGULATOR

Hawkesbury and Lower Nepean Rivers Water Source An application for a new water supply work and water use approval has been received from Penrith Lakes Development Corporation for two pumps (maximum extraction rate of 250 litres per second each) on Lot 338 DP 752021, Parish of Castlereagh, County of Cumberland (A019333). The pumps can only be used during high flows as specified in clause 57(4) of the Water Sharing Plan for Greater Metropolitan Region Unregulated River Water Sources 2011.

Objections to this application for an approval must be registered in writing to Natural Resources Access Regulator, PO Box 2213, DANGAR NSW 2309 within 28 days of this publication. The objection must include your name and address, and specify the grounds of the objection.

Any queries should be directed to Estelle Avery, Senior Water Regulation Officer, on 4904 2512.

WW38943 WW39187

For your convenience We accept!

PUBLIC NOTICES

WW39177

WW39110

Call 4956 1956

WW39172

Accommodation Wanted

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the St Marys Town Centre will be held on Tuesday, 29th October 2019 at the St Marys Band Club, 411 Great Western Highway, St Marys. Canapes from 6pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.

St Marys Town Centre is accepting applications for 2 positions on the Board (2 x business/property owner positions).

Further information can be obtained by calling the office on 9833 2433 or emailing bdm@stmarystowncentre.com.au

NEED TO GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED - GOT A GARAGE SALE COMING UP - HAVE A POSITIONS VACANT - CALL 4722 2998 TO ADVERTISE IN OUR TRADES & SERVICE SECTION

WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters submitted for publication are done so on the condition that The Western Weekender may edit them, without affecting the overall message or intent of the letter. The Western Weekender reserves the right to publish letters in other publications.

COPYRIGHT Content in this publication belongs to Western Sydney Publishing Group, publishers of The Western Weekender, or its licensors, advertisers or affiliates. All content in this publication is protected by Australian and international copyright laws.

ETHICAL AND ACCURATE CONTENT The Western Weekender operates under a code covering both ethics and accuracy. If you believe either have been compromised in relation to editorial or advertising content that appears in this publication, you should initially contact the Managing Editor.

Want to increase cash flow?

Need more Work?

We can help advertise your business in our Trades & Services and Classifieds

Call NOW on 4722 2998

WW639

Western

r

Weekende

NATHAN TAYLOR @NateTaylor87

T

oyota has confirmed it will supply up to 20 specially designed “Tokyo 2020 Version” e-Palette vehicles to support athlete mobility at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo next year.

The vehicles will operate in the automated, loop- line transportation Toyota will provide in the Olympic and Paralympic villages for athletes and related staff.

Takahiro Muta, development leader for the unique version of the e- Palette for Tokyo 2020, said the battery- electric, automated vehicles have been adapted specifically for use during the Games based in part on feedback from athletes about their mobility needs.

“Olympic and Paralympic athletes work tirelessly to achieve the impossible, and we wanted to provide them with a vehicle specifically designed and calibrated to fit their mobility needs during Tokyo 2020,” he said.

“Throughout the development process, athletes, especially Paralympians, helped us to better understand how we could adapt and upgrade the e-Palette to better meet the need for simple, convenient and comfortable mobility.

“We are proud to work with them on a vehicle that will not just move athletes physically throughout the Villages but will also offer them new opportunities to interact with others, share new experiences, and be moved emotionally.”

TOYOTA

WW38972

Vehicles of the future for Olympics

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

AUTO

PAULICO PTY LTD Trading as

SUZUKI SX-4 MANUAL HATCH

GREAT VALUE FAMILY 4X4 SUV, 7-SEATER, APRIL 2020 REGO & AUTOMATIC

BEAUTIFUL REGAL PEACOCK PAINTWORK, 3.6 EFI ENGINE OFFERING POWER & ECONOMY, AFFORDABLE LUXURY

LOW KLMS, LOGBOOKS, CRUISE CONTROL & A GREAT LEARNER’S CAR

NICE CAR & REAR WHEEL DRIVE, AUTOMATIC, CRUISE CONTROL & READY TO DRIVE ANYWHERE

$

12,999

CT CT50XL X

2012 FORD FALCON FG XR-6 SEDAN

NICE & TIDY THROUGHOUT, LOGBOOKS & ALLOY WHEELS, A SOUND FAMILY CAR

AUTOMATIC WITH GOOD SERVICE HISTORY, GREAT BUYING

Ph. 9622 2010 96 Sunnyholt Rd, Blacktown

10,999

CAPTIVA 7 2014 TURBO DIESEL $

14,999

YES ONLY 60,500KLMS, AUTOMATIC LT SERIES WITH LOADS OF STANDARD FEATURES

ALL FINANCE AVAILABLE - SELF EMPLOYED, PENSIONERS WELCOME! www.paulicoautos.com.au

$

CGA72C CGA

2011 HYUNDAI ACCENT 5-DOOR HATCH

Cash paid for good clean cars.

Call Mal now!

2016 HOLDEN VF COMMODORE EVOKE SEDAN

7,999

MEMBER OF

$

16,999

CSE64G CSE

9,999

$

RD

$

18,999

BESSEM

ER ST

WE ARE HERE

x

NYH OLT

VOO DOO BLUE WITH A HARD COVER & UTE LINER, TOWBAR. WHAT A LOOKER!

CM CM78KN K

2008 HOLDEN SV-6 MANUAL UTE

$

DUNSTA

BLE RD

SUN

12,999

DZL48R

$

CQO54X CQO

2013 HOLDEN VF CALAIS S/N8749

NISSAN PATHFINDER TURBO DIESEL

BGV71M BGV

Need Finance Sell Your Car Trade Your Car Up To 5 Yrs Warranty Available

61

AUTO EXPERTS

AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR CENTRE

TERRY’S GARAGE

SPONSORED CONTENT

Complete Mechanical Repairs to Petrol, Diesel & LPG Vehicles

www.nepeanvillageauto.com.au

ASK ABOUT OUR NO INTEREST EVER OFFER N Cooling System Check & Car Air Conditioning Regas

5. Air duct chambers 6. Battery lead test 7 Receiver/condenser 8 Fluid levels

SERVICE AND REPAIRS to: Cars and Light Trucks up to 4 tonne • Disc Machining on and off-car • Off-car injector cleaning • Tyres • Headlight polishing • Air conditioning regassing

Ph: 4732 3444

17 Copeland Street, Kingswood

Ph: 1300 288 662 or 4731 5888

MVRL Lic. No. 46552

MVRL Lic. 43130 | ARC Lic. AU30526

BIG WHEEL TYRE MECHANICAL AAN N AUTO AUT UTOO EELECTRICA AL REPAIR RSS AND ELECTRICAL REPAIRS

BIG WHEEL TYRE MECHANICAL AND $ AUTO ELECTRICAL REPAIRS 145 WE NOW DO MAG WHEEL REPAIRS, MOTOR TRIMMING AND UPHOLSTERY

• All Mechanical Repairs • Auto Electric • Tyres - wheel alignment, etc.

• Rego checks, blue slips, new car servicing, LPG Regos.

WW37556

Lube Special from

Unit 2a/10 Eddie Rd, Minchinbury

Phone:

9832 3222

MOBILE ONE AUTO REPAIRS

MVRL Lic. No. 032795

• All mechanical repairs (award-winning service) • Brake repairs • LPG Rego Inspections • New car servicing (your warranty is protected) • Auto services • Latest diagnostic scanner • Timing belts

Nepean Village Auto Service and Repair Centre is a family run business with customer service at its heart.

Servicing the local community for over 15 years, owner Norm Hardy has been in the automotive industry for more than half a century and knows what customer service is all about.

“We pride ourselves on return service. Like your local family GP, we get to know your car’s ailments over its lifetime and can diagnose more effectively based on its history,” Norm said.

“Here at Nepean Village Auto, we understand what an important part of your day-to-day life your vehicle is.

“We will provide you with value

• Fully Equipped Workshop • Over 70 Years Combined Experience • Repairs & Service on all vehicles • 4WD Lift Kits • Pink & Blue Slips • Wheel Alignments • Vehicle Lowering Kits & Coilover Suspension

for money on whatever job or service you undertake.”

When Nepean Village Auto quote a new job, they will give you a fixed price quote and always seek your approval for any additional work.

All vehicles are inspected thoroughly on a hoist and customers are welcome to view any repair that is required or advised, so you can share in the decision making.

“We can also work within your budget and advise on what needs to be addressed urgently as opposed to what could be saved until your next service, or perhaps your next pay packet,” Norm said.

“Let us worry about your automotive repair needs, so you don’t have to.”

Call them today on 4731 5888.

www.sydneysuspension.com.au 143 Coreen Avenue PENRITH 4721 2112 ABN 75 130 584 673 Licence No 45519

SPRAY PAINTING PANEL BEATING ALL WORK GUARANTEED ALL INSURANCE WORK 42 Cox Avenue, Kingswood

ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

Nepean Village

ph: 4731 4587

Fully equipped workshop at Unit 6/176 Forrester Rd, St Marys

AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR CENTRE

info@mervshipp.com.au www.mervshipp.com.au facebook.com/mervshipp

9833 7995

WW36874

www.nepeanvillageauto.com.au

COOLING SYSTEM CHECK & CAR AIR CONDITIONING REGAS

ORTRANTO P/L

149

$

Lic No 20505

p Home Service FULL Dro MECHANICAL Pink & Blue Slips WORKSHOP Logbook Service REGO CHECKS Full Servicing LPG & SERVICE

SEDANS / SUVs

☎ 4721 2500

WW36736

All Work Guaranteed Warranty Safe

Ask about our no interest ever offer

Additional Checks: 1. Drive belts 2. Cooling system hoses 3. Coolant condition 4. Air conditioning pollen filter 5. Air duct chambers 6. Battery lead test 7 Receiver/condenser 8 Fluid levels

Ph: 1300 288 662 or 4731 5888 160 Station St, Penrith

MVRL Lic. 43130 | ARC Lic. AU30526

WW39216

AUTO CENTRE

62

Service you can rely on at Nepean Village Auto

MVRL Lic. No. 49904

WW36824

MOTOR TRIMMING AND UPHOLSTERY

DK Fitzpatrick P/L Trading as

• Competitive prices • European car specialist • Latest computer scanning equipment for the latest makes & models • We also service ‘hybrid’ cars • Loan car available • Open Saturdays All Mechanical Repairs & Warranty Servicing www.indyperformance.com.au

4735 2697 Green Environment Accreditation

Unit 1/11 Smith St, Emu Plains Lic. No. MVRL55954

WW37189

160 Station St, Penrith

WW36888

Additional Checks: 1. Drive belts 2. Cooling system hoses 3. Coolant condition 4. Air conditioning pollen filter

SEDANS SUVs

WW36850

149

$

WW36856

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Nepean Village

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

SPORT

RUGBY LEAGUE

Wheely good competition p.67

New rivalry born in the west T

Jaguars star Jodie Newton and Leopards veteran Claudine Te Ahuru-Kostic

he Penrith Baseball Club will be split right down the middle this Friday night when the club’s two women’s teams face- off in a regular season match for the first time.

Tonight at 7.30pm best friends will become arch- rivals when the Penrith Leopards and Penrith Jaguars do battle at Andrews Road Baseball Complex in Cranebrook.

The highly anticipated match will kickoff Round 5 of the NSW Women’s Baseball League second grade competition.

Speaking with the Weekender on Monday, Leopards veteran and pitcher Claudine Te Ahuru-Kostic said she’s very excited to be part of local baseball history tonight.

“I’ve been at the club for more than a decade and we’ve had women’s first grade sides in the past, but it’s been a very long time since the club’s fielded two teams in second grade,” she said.

“The club’s second women’s team, the Jaguars, is newly formed and are very good, so I’m expecting a challenging game.”

Earlier this week the two teams were involved in a combined training session but, unlike previous weeks, Monday’s session was a little bit more intense as

• Cheese Kits • Beer Making Kits • Jerky Making Kits • Smoker Boxes

Ph: 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Hwy Kingswood

• Bacon Kits • Spirit and Liqueur Essences • Chocolate Making Kits

POPULAR BRANDS

more than just homebrew

both sides put their game faces on ahead of tonight’s clash “We train under the same banner, so there’s no separation at all,” Te AhuruKostic said.

“I’m expecting plenty of banter on Friday night, it should be really exciting.

Everyone gets on really well but we’re all hungry for the win this week.

“We’ve all been giving each other ‘eye balls’ at training, so it’s on!”

Just who will win bragging rights later this evening is anyone’s guess but one thing that is certain is that women’s baseball in Penrith is thriving.

Currently 23 female players are registered at Penrith Baseball Club, with that number growing by the week.

Te Ahuru- Kostic said it was fantastic to see the sport going through a growth phase in the local area.

“I’ve been at the club for the past decade and have always rallied for our women’s side – gaining more support, more players,” she said.

“We started to see progress around two years ago and we’ve been forging ahead ever since.”

The Penrith Baseball Club is always on the hunt for more female players, if you’re interested in reviving your baseball career or want to give the sport a go for the first time, contact the club for more information.

Country Brewer Epicurean Roberts Confectionery Wyeast Fowlers Vacola A Taste of the Bush Andale Coopers Weyermann Joe White

www.countrybrewer.com.au

WW37712

NATHAN TAYLOR

63

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

Thunder look to make cracking start Story continued from » p. 72 “It’ll just be how we connect and how we click in the opening weekend,” Griffith said.

For the first time since its inception, this WBBL season will be played as a standalone tournament. Usually the season kicks off in December alongside the men’s competition, but league bosses brought the season forward to attract more families to games.

Griffith, who is also a valued member of the Penrith Cricket Club, said it was a “weird” feeling starting a few months early.

“It feels later in the year than what it is, it’s hard to believe it’s only October and we’re getting stuck into Big Bash, but I think it will be fantastic and a great way to showcase the talent that is women’s cricket,” she said.

“I love that women’s sport is starting to trend towards their own standalone competitions, I hope we get can get people to games and eyes on screens.”

All eyes will be glued to Channel Seven tonight when the Thunder and Sixers do battle from 7.30pm.

Griffith said there’s no better way to begin the new season than with a good old fashioned Sydney derby.

“I think it’s a great way to kick-off the new season,” she said.

MOTORSPORT

James heads home Penrith-born Courtney keen to deliver for western Sydney NATHAN TAYLOR

T

ekno Autosports brass Jonathan and Kobe Webb have announced they have signed Penrith- born racing driver and 2010 Supercars champion James Courtney as well as confirmed they’ll become the first Sydney- based team in the Supercars Championship in over 15 years to operate from Sydney Motorsport Park at Eastern Creek.

The team will commence operating from their Sydney facility ahead of the first event of the 2020 Supercars Championship. It will then relocate to a new building at Eastern Creek as part of a $33 million investment by the State Government.

Diehard Panthers supporter James Courtney said he was thrilled with the opportunity and was looking forward to spending more time in western Sydney.

“I am a Penrith boy, so in many ways it’s coming home for me,” he said.

“The western Sydney fanbase haven’t had their own team to get behind for a long time, so I’m excited to work with the Webb family and their partners to build

James Courtney is returning home something new and something they can take pride in.”

Supercars Australia CEO Sean Seamer said it was a significant outcome for the sport in Sydney.

“Having a Supercars team housed in a permanent facility in the heart of Sydney’s booming western suburbs is a

massive coup for the Championship,” he said.

“The Webb family have delivered significant developments in Sydney, including the Eastern Creek area, and James Courtney is born and bred western Sydney, so their collective knowledge and connection to NSW makes them the perfect match up for a Sydney Supercars team.”

Sydney Motorsport CEO Glenn Mathews said the arrival of a Supercars team is a vital step towards establishing western Sydney as the motorsport hub of Australia.

“Today is an exciting day not only for Supercars but for the Australian Racing Drivers’ Club,” he said.

“The investment in the permanent lighting creates significant opportunities for new audiences, users and events, and the facility being built to house the new team is an integral part of our strategy to position the entire Sydney Motorsport Park precinct as a motorsport innovation and high performance hub.”

Tekno Autosports hope to finalise other key partnerships, as well as a second driver, in the coming weeks.

SPORTSMANS LUNCH WHEN: Friday 25th October, 2019 WHERE: Penrith Panthers, Mulgoa Rd Penrith TIME: 11:30am - 4pm COST: Tables of 8 for $1,400 or $195 each

Special

All Star Line-u to be announcepd soon!

Ticket includes a two course lunch, beer, wine and soft drink

BOOKINGS CAN BE MADE ONLINE AT HTTPS://WWW.TRYBOOKING.COM/BDZUW SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE – PLEASE CONTACT SEAN HOGAN 0414 637 513

HELP US TO REVERSE THE TIDE OF DECLINING MENTAL HEALTH AND TO REDUCE SUICIDE IN MEN AND BOYS

Proudly sponsored by:

:ŅƋÏʱĊXĜüå ± ĹŅƋěüŅųěŞųŅĀƋ üŅƚĹÚ±ƋĜŅĹ ƋʱƋ üƚĹÚŸ ŸƚŸƋ±ĜűÆĬå åÚƚϱƋĜŅűĬ ƵŅųĩŸĘŅŞŸ ±ĹÚ Ƌų±ĜĹĜĹč ŞųŅčų±ĵŸ ƋŅ ÏʱĵŞĜŅĹ ƋĘå ĜÚå± Ņü ĵåĹƋ±Ĭ ĀƋĹ域ţ Ņ ÆƚĜĬÚ ųåŸĜĬĜåĹÏå ĜĹ ĵ±ƋåŸØ ü±ĵĜĬĜåŸ ±ĹÚ ÏŅĵĵƚĹĜƋĜåŸ ÆƼ ÚåƴåĬŅŞĜĹč ƋĘå ŸŅÏĜ±Ĭ ±ĹÚ åĵŅƋĜŅűĬ ÏŅĹĹåÏƋĜŅĹŸ ųåŧƚĜųåÚ ƋŅ Úå±Ĭ ƵĜƋĘ ƋĘå ÏʱĬĬåĹčåŸ ƋʱƋ ĬĜüå ƋĘųŅƵŸ ±Ƌ ƚŸ ±ĬĬţ

64

gotcha4life.org

WW38409

Penrith Rams proudly supporting:

RUGBY LEAGUE

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

RUGBY LEAGUE

League season rolls on as international duties call

Young gun Burns secures his future with Panthers

Viliame Kikau is one of seven Panthers involved at the 9s. Photo: Megan Dunn Billy Burns has re-signed with the Panthers. Photo: Megan Dunn

NATHAN TAYLOR

P

anthers forward Billy “Spaceman” Burns has landed a new deal to stay at the foot of the Mountains until the end of the 2022 season.

The 20-year-old, who made his debut in Round 24, said he was thrilled to remain a Panther for a further three years.

“I’m stoked to re- sign with Panthers and to be staying in Penrith for at least the next few years,” Burns said.

“I have a lot of good mates at this club and together I believe we have the potential to build something special.

NATHAN TAYLOR

“Heading into next season I’m focused on locking down a spot in the NRL side and delivering consistent performances at that level.

“I want to thank Ivan (Cleary) and everyone at Panthers for the opportunities they’ve given me to this point.”

Having played his junior rugby league with Parkes Spacemen, Burns relocated to Penrith and was a member of the club’s premiership-winning SG Ball side in 2016.

He progressed through the grades at the Panthers before making his NRL debut against the Sydney Roosters in late August.

I

f you thought rugby league was over for the season – think again.

Seven Panthers players will be hitting the field tonight (Friday) and tomorrow for the first ever Rugby League World Cup 9s at Bankwest Stadium.

While there are no Penrith players involved with the Australian and New Zealand 9s teams, there are plenty representing Pacific nations Samoa, Fiji and Tonga.

The Samoan 9s team features the most Panthers players with Jarome Luai, Moses Leota, Brian To’o and Dean Blore set to don the blue jersey.

Powerhouse backrower Viliame Kikau and new Panthers recruit Apisai Koroisau have been selected in the 16- man Fijian squad, while winger Malakai WateneZelezniak will run out for the Tongan 9s team.

Panthers lock James Fisher- Harris was due to line up for New Zealand but was forced to withdraw after suffering a pectoral muscle tear at training.

The 2019 Merv Cartwright Medallist will now undergo surgery and will be sidelined for the next four months. It’s hoped the 23-year-old will be fit for the opening round of the 2020 NRL season.

12 national teams will contest the men’s World Cup 9s tournament, while four sides will compete in the women’s event.

The low rate card with a

e s o p r u p r highe + Same low rate of 8.99% p.a.* on purchases, cash advances and balance transfers + Half of the $40 annual fee ($20) is donated to the McGrath Foundation every year + Purchases are up to 55 days interest free when you pay your balance in full by the due date each month

9 0 4 Raised to date for the McGrath Foundation

8.99

p.a.*

on purchases + balance transfers + cash advances

Credit eligibility criteria, terms & conditions, fees & charges apply – details available on application. *Rate is current as at 01/07/16 and subject to change without notice. Community First Credit Union donates $20 to the McGrath Foundation from the annual fee for each McGrath Pink Visa card. The McGrath Foundation raises money to place specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses wherever they're needed and seeks to increase breast health understanding. Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay are registered trademarks of Apple Inc., Google Inc., and Samsung Electronics Co. respectively. Community First Credit Union Limited ABN 80 087 649 938 AFSL and Australian credit licence 231204.

Take the next step today. Call us or visit us in-store Nepean Village, Penrith 02 9735 1780 communityfirst.com.au WW39230

65

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

SOCCER

Wanderers grab early win Western Sydney return home in style, but face tough task on the road this evening NATHAN TAYLOR

I

t may not have been pretty but the Western Sydney Wanderers have got their 2019/20 A-League campaign off to the perfect start following a 2-1 win over the Central Coast Mariners last Saturday night.

In what was the first ever A- League match at Bankwest Stadium, the Wanderers were forced to come back from a goal down to record their maiden victory of the new season.

New Wanderers skipper Mitchell Duke was the star of the show, scoring a double to send his troops home with the allimportant three points.

The visitors scored first after 36 minutes through Serbian debutant Milan Duric before Duke struck back five minutes later with a goal of his own.

The Wanderers hit the lead late in the second half after a VAR decision awarded a penalty against Central Coast’s Dylan Fox for a handball. Captain Duke stayed composed to score the go-ahead goal with less than 10 minutes remaining, putting his side in front.

The Wanderers were back at training on Wednesday morning. Photo: Megan Dunn Speaking to the media after match, Wanderers coach Markus Babbel said Duke was the driving force behind the win.

“Mitch Duke is the captain and he was the captain today, I’m very happy for him,” he said.

“You can see how important he is to us.

The boys wanted him as captain because he’s always on the pitch fighting, and this is what the boys need.”

Western Sydney’s victory last weekend was the first time in two years they’d won their opening round clash.

While the match wasn’t attractive due to the injection of new players as well as injuries, the Wanderers did enough to get home.

“We know we can play better football… the first game isn’t easy, you don’t know where you are,” Babbel said.

“Also, many players came late or were injured in the pre- season, so it was a difficult time for us to know where we are.

“I’m very happy the boys had some luck on their side.”

Tonight (Friday) the Wanderers will look to make it two wins on the trot when they travel to Marvel Stadium to face the Melbourne Victory.

Unfortunately, Western Sydney will be without several key players for the clash including Tarek Elrich, who injured his hamstring in the win over the Mariners.

Bruce Kamau and Kwame Yeboah could also be missing following injuries suffered at training last week.

SPONSORSHIP & STALLS AVAILABLE Contact Penrith CBD Corp on

4722 5556

66

WW39231

Wheely good competition Search is on for new players as Wheelchair Rugby League season gets closer NATHAN TAYLOR

O

rganisers of Western Sydney Wheelchair Rugby League are hoping to attract more people to the growing sport by opening it up to everyone.

Able-bodied and disabled men, women and teens are all welcome to sign up for the upcoming Western Sydney Wheelchair Rugby League competition, which begins on November 9 at YMCA Hawkesbury Stadium.

Four local rugby league clubs – St Clair, Minchinbury, St Marys and Emu Plains – will compete over a 10-week period to see who will be crowned the best wheelchair rugby league team in western Sydney.

Organiser and Emu Plains skipper Nathan Pentecost said he came up with the idea for a local competition several years ago as a way to grow the sport out west.

“This competition runs each year and we are now approaching our third season,” he told the Weekender.

“It was originally my idea to go to the hierarchy of NRL Wheelchair and inform

Local teams in action. Photo: Rev William A Stewart AFIAP, FAPS them of the interest in western Sydney and that I wanted to try and grow the sport out here.

“It’s been very successful so far and the junior clubs involved have been great.”

Pentecost is a local sporting hero, not only has he captained the Panthers wheelchair rugby league team for many years but he’s also represented his state on the big stage.

Pentecost said he loves playing wheelchair rugby league because it brings him closer to his able-bodied friends.

“The reason I love playing wheelchair

Around the grounds CRICKET: A rainy Saturday has saved Penrith from defeat against Gordon in Round 2 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Gordon won the toss and elected to bat first. The visitors put in a strong batting performance on day one and declared on 9/361. Penrith’s Ryan Smith was best with the ball, taking 4/64. When Penrith hit the crease on day two last Saturday, they managed to get 28 overs in before rain cancelled the rest of the day’s play.

Penrith were 0/99 when the game was called off. Penrith’s Brent Atherton led the way with 52 runs. Penrith will travel to Owen Earle Oval this Saturday to face Hawkesbury in a Two-Day match.

CRICKET: Round 2 of the Nepean District Cricket Association is in the can, with Panthers Cricket Club enjoying mixed results in rain affected matches.

In first grade, Panthers drew with Glenmore Park. In third grade, Panthers drew with Glenmore Park. In sixth grade, Panthers drew with Glenbrook Blaxland. In ninth grade, Panthers defeated Glenbrook Blaxland.

BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers first grade team have enjoyed a mixed round against Cronulla in Round 4 of the NSW State Baseball League competition. In the weekend game Penrith defeated Cronulla 9-8, while in the midweek game Penrith went down 4-1.

The Panthers will take on the Central Coast in Round 5.

GRIDIRON: The Nepean Ducks have

continued their losing ways, going down to the West Sydney Pirates 39-26 in Round 8 of the Gridiron NSW Men’s competition. In the day’s other matches, Nepean’s Colts team were victorious against West Sydney 34-18, while the Ducks women’s team were smashed by the Northern Sydney Rebels 56-28. This Saturday Nepean’s men’s team will have a bye while Colts will play UTS and the women will play the Central Coast Sharks.

GOLF: A charity golf day will be held at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, November 12 for MATES in Construction. MATES in Construction is a charity established in 2008 to reduce the high level of suicide among Australian construction workers. It is owned and controlled by the Australian Building and Construction Industry.

The four-man ambrose event costs $225 per person and includes cart hire, 18 holes, unlimited beer, wine and soft drink, and buffet lunch. 100 per cent of proceeds raised will be donated to MATES in Construction. For more information and to secure your ticket, call Stephen Hanson on 0410 264 389 or email hansonmetalroofing@hotmail. com.au. Make sure you get in quick, spaces are limited!

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/westernweekender or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

RUGBY LEAGUE

It’s just like the real thing. Photo: Rev William A Stewart AFIAP, FAPS

rugby league is it allows me to play with my able-bodied mates on the same playing field,” he said.

“All of my able- bodied mates not only have the opportunity to represent their junior clubs but I’m always looking for players that are good enough to play for the Panthers as well.”

One of the big misconceptions of wheelchair rugby league is that it’s only available to wheelchair- bound people, this is simply not true as players come from a wide variety of backgrounds and abilities.

If you choose to sign up, you will be

provided with a wheelchair to use for the season and you will receive plenty of training to get you up to speed with the modified rules of the game.

“Each team has five players on the court and the game is very similar to OzTag as we wear tags on shoulders,” Pentecost said.

With the new season fast approaching, Western Sydney Wheelchair Rugby League are still on the hunt for more players and sponsors to get involved. If you’re interested, visit www.nrlwheelchair.com. au/wswrl.

October Special

15 off %

all showers

From rail showers to twin showers to ceiling showers, all showers are reduced by 15% during October only.

Visit any Cook’s showroom or buy online at cooksplumbing.com.au

Offer valid in-store and online to retail customers only, for purchases made between October 1 - October 31, 2019.

WW39228

67

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

EVERY MAKE, EVERY MODEL WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. THE OIL THAT KEEPS SYDNEY MOVING. WWW.GULFWESTERN.COM.AU

WW38940

“NO ONE KNOWS YOUR P A S S I O N L I K E S H A N N O N S.”

Shannons understands your passion doesn’t run to stock standard. If you like to modify your car Shannons policies can be tailored to your needs. Shannons insurance includes features like: Choice of repairer Agreed value Cover for legal modifications and non-standard accessories listed on your policy Pay by the month premiums at no extra cost One excess free windscreen claim per year Call Shannons on 13 46 46 for a quote on your special car and speak with a genuine enthusiast.

Join the Shannons Club today! Get connected and share your passion - shannons.com.au/club

INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU

68

Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 (“Shannons”) is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 (“AAI”), the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to comprehensive vehicle cover. Shannons and AAI have not taken account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. Contact us for a copy.

WW39141

WW39214

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

Thinking home loans?

Don’t settle until you know all your options.

Starting from *

3.12 3.32 %

pa

%

pa

comparison rate^

Until 22 November 2019 Contact us now**

Find out more - visit

pepper.com.au Call your Broker or Pepper on

1800 737 737 Important Information *Interest Rates range from 3.12-5.24%p.a. (Comparison Rates range from 3.32-5.61%p.a.) for Pepper Essential loans until 22 November 2019. Pepper Easy Loans interest rates range from 4.26-7.61%p.a. (Comparison Rates range from 4.63 – 8.24% p.a.). Loan applications lodged after the promotional period will be offered the current interest rates then applicable. Offer may be continued, withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. The actual interest rate applicable will depend on the individual borrower’s circumstances. **Pepper Money interest rate promotion applies only for new Pepper Essential applicants. Offer does not apply to existing borrowers. Applications must be submitted between 3pm AEST 1st October 2019 and until 11:59pm AEST on 22nd November 2019. ^WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. All Comparison Rates are calculated based on a secured loan of $150,000 over a 25 year term. Pepper Group Ltd ACN 094 317 665 Australian Credit Licence Number 286655 is the servicer of loans by Pepper Finance Corporation Limited ACN 094 317 647.

Applications are subject to Pepper’s normal credit assessment and loan suitability criteria. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply.

WW39119

69

Friday, October 18, 2019 « the western weekender

SYDNEY DRAGWAY ATLANTIC OILS EAST COAST THUNDER FEATURE

Fire up for awesome racing at Sydney Dragway

T

he Atlantic Oils East Coast Thunder rolls into Sydney Dragway at Eastern Creek this November!

Featuring the first round of the 201920 400 Thunder Professional Drag Racing Series Championship, racers from across the country are set to do battle at one of

70

the most prestigious events on the Sydney Dragway calendar.

Two- time and reigning 400 Thunder Top Fuel Champion Wayne Newby will again line up for Rapisarda Autosport International as part of a three- car team assault on the championship.

Popular American driver Ashley Sanford returns, with the bubbly Californian looking to take her first win after a string of runner-up performances.

The Atlantic Oils East Coast Thunder will also see the return of three-time Australian champion Phil Lamattina after a five

SPONSORED CONTENT

year hiatus from the cockpit. Lammattina will be stepping into his family- owned car which was driven to a title win and runner-up by Kelly Bettes in the last two seasons.

Pro Slammer is wide open with huge changes in the category following the departure of the reigning champion Paul Mouhayet.

Perennial contender John Zappia is favourite, but faces stiff competition from the likes of Queensland’s Steven Ham, western Sydney’s Mark Hinchelwood and fan favourite Michelle Davies amongst many others.

Pro Stock and Pro Alcohol are categories looking at their strongest line- ups in several years, with reigning champions Gary Phillips (Pro Alcohol) and Aaron Tremayne (Pro Stock) looking to repeat as title winners in 2019-20.

Two wheeled fans have plenty to be excited about with the race for the first five second pass on two wheels in the southern hemisphere still wide open with the favourite, six- time champ Chris Matheson, the front runner.

He will be doing battle with the nitrofuelled Harleys at over 350km/h.

Qualifying takes place at Sydney Dragway on Friday, November 1, with professional racing getting underway on Saturday, November 2.

For all the event information and tickets, visit www.sydneydragway.com.au. Tickets are available at the gate as well.

Kids under 12-years-old are free.

WW39168

the western weekender » Friday, October 18, 2019

71

WW39167

4736 4400 • 24 Hour • Accident • Trade • General • All Vehicles • Bobcats • Forklifts • Machinery

FOR ALL YOUR TOWING NEEDS

WW38392

24 HOURS

SPORT

Friday, October 18, 2019 Penrith’s #1 NRL coverage – Extra Time – returns in 2020

Thunder ready to rumble NATHAN TAYLOR

T Personalise your ideal body.

We have some exciting news! Our clinic is now happy to offer truSculpt® iD. It takes as little as one comfortable 15-minute treatment to permanently eliminate fat cells in stubborn areas, thereby resulting in fat reduction in the treated areas.

WW39197

Everyone has their own body iD. It’s time to define yours.

Schedule your consultation today!

471 High St, Penrith | 4732 4488

he Sydney Thunder will get a really good idea of where they sit on the pecking order when they face last season’s Grand Finalists in back to back games to start the new Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season.

Tonight the Thunder will take on 2018/19 runners- up the Sydney Sixers in front of a packed house at North Sydney Oval before backing up two days later to face reigning champions Brisbane at the same venue.

With a host of new faces as well as a new coach and skipper, the Thunder are hoping to get their campaign off to a red-hot start and return to the WBBL Finals for the first time since the 2017/18 season.

Thunder bowler Lisa Griffith told the Weekender the team has a fresh, positive outlook on the season ahead.

“We’ve spoke briefly about our values, which is to play aggressive and positive cricket… if we live by those values this year, we’ll do well,” she said.

“All teams will be looking for that trophy at the end of the Big Bash and I’d be lying if I said that we weren’t looking towards that also.”

Story continues on » p. 64

Thunder star Lisa Griffith is excited for the new Women’s Big Bash League season to start

WW38948