Local father-of-four dies in workplace accident as community rallies behind family
ALLY HALL
Atrue Aussie guy who would do anything for his family is how heavy haulage interstate truckie Luke Vella is being remembered.
The Penrith father and fiancé lost his life in a work accident in Western Australia on Monday night, October 21.
Vella leaves behind four children under the age of 10 and his high school sweetheart Bec Gillespie, who he was set to marry on their 15th anniversary in March next year.
“He loved camping, being out on the road, spending time with his family – that was the most important thing to him,” said Bec’s sister, Gabby Gillespie.
“He was extremely hard working and he wanted to give his family everything that he could ever give them.”
She explained that Vella met Bec in high school, and soon became part of their family.
“They always said that as soon as he saw her, he was head over heels, he fell in love straight away,” she said.
“They had their first kid when they were 20, and obviously they didn’t have much because they were young at that point, but Luke worked so incredibly hard to get them into a house for themselves and get them the cars that they dreamed of, and they kept growing their family.”
A GoFundMe was set up by the Gillespie family to help Bec navigate her new day-today and has already exceeded the $40,000 goal.
“Luke knew so many people that they’ve just rallied together to support Bec, and we’re
Delays expected at Cranebrook
Road users are advised of changed traffic conditions on Cranebrook Road, between Londonderry Road and Taylor Road, Cranebrook.
These changes are necessary for upgrading drains, which help improve safety for road users by reducing flooding risk.
Work will be completed over 10 nights between Sunday, November 10 and Thursday, December 9, weather permitting. Work hours will be between 8pm and 5am, Sunday to Thursday.
There will be temporary traffic changes during work to make sure the work zone is safe for workers and road users. Cranebrook Road will remain open, but there will be a single lane closure and a 40km/h speed limit.
TEACHERS AGREE TO NEW PAY DEAL
Public school teachers have voted to accept a new three-year pay deal, following a stop work meeting on Monday.
The agreement will mean the state’s 95,000 public school teacher workforce will continue to have highly competitive salaries, receiving a three per cent pay increase annually for the next three years.
The deal follows the pay rise given to teachers last year which saw starting salaries lift from $75,791 to $85,000 and top of the scale teacher salaries increase from $113.042 to $122,100.
trying to make sure that she doesn’t have to worry about anything except getting through each day as they come,” Gillespie said.
“He was the only one that was bringing in the income in the family, we are a bit worried
about how they’re going to get by until the money comes in properly.”
that claimed Vella’s life.
The investigation and medical examination are expected to take up to seven weeks to complete.
For those who would like to donate to the young local family, visit the GoFundMe webpage at https://www.gofundme.com/f/ luke-vella.
Crash vision sought
Serious head-on crash
at Colyton left three in hospital
Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious crash at Colyton in September, which left three people in hospital.
About 10.30pm on Friday, September 20, emergency services were called to Carlisle Avenue, near Roper Road, Colyton, following reports of a head on crash between two vehicles.
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the 17-year-old female driver of a black Suzuki Swift at the scene.
She was taken to Westmead Hospital in a serious condition and has since been released from hospital.
The 51-year-old male driver of a white Toyota Corolla was also taken to the same hospital as the other driver.
A passenger in the Toyota – a 13-year-old girl – was conveyed to Westmead Children’s Hospital.
Both occupants of the Toyota remain hospitalised and are in a serious but stable condition.
Officers from Nepean Police
Area Command established a crime scene that was later examined by the Crash Investigation Unit.
As police inquiries continue into the crash, investigators are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the crash – or has any available dashcam/mobile phone footage – to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit Penrith or St Marys Police Stations.
The family are still in the dark about the circumstances of the two-truck collision at Leinster
Luke Vella with his family.
Luke Vella was a true family man.
The aftermath of the Colyton crash.
The carnage following the crash.
The scene of the crash in September.
Emotional tributes to long-time Councillor at Monday
Council meeting Council remembers Jim
night’s
Generous, visionary, experienced, larger than life.
Some of the terms used to describe the late Jim Aitken this week, as Councillors paid tribute to the former Mayor and local business icon at Monday’s Ordinary Meeting.
Aitken was a staple on Penrith City Council where he served for 28 years, during which he was elected as Mayor in 2008-2009 and twice as Deputy Mayor in 2010-2011 and 2013-2014.
Aitken resigned from Council last year after battling ill health for a period. He passed away in September at the age of 76.
In what was the first opportunity for Councillors to pay tribute to Aitken in the Council chambers, Mayor Todd Carney acknowledged the dedication Aitken gave to his local community.
“Jim always had the community at heart, giving back through his church community and the Penrith Valley Rotary Club. For more than 20 years, he ran the Penrith City Carols, working closely with Rotary clubs, and was presented with a Rotary Service Medal,” Carney said.
“His vision of making positive contributions to his community through his business and his role as Councillor allowed him to serve those in need. This was demonstrated in his advocacy for children with disabilities.
“He was a generous man and brought a pragmatic approach to council discussions, as well as passionate enthusiasm for our community’s need and interests.”
Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler recognised the loss of Aitken and said he was a good advocate in the community.
“I had the pleasure of being on Council for those 28 years… and got to know Jim fairly well. He was a person of many and varied interests that if you looked at it and said what were his main interests you could probably say Council for one, community for two, business for three and most importantly family for four,” he said.
“Penrith has certainly lost a remarkable person who was passionate about what he did, and he went about doing what he did with a vision and certainly extreme effort, and he put into what he did his whole heart and everything. He is certainly going to be missed by Penrith.”
Labor’s John Thain spoke about Atiken’s character.
“I spent about 20 years on Council with Councillor Aitken and I’ve got to say I always
found Jim a very interesting bloke,” he said.
“I attended his funeral and it was incredibly well attended, which is a tribute [from] the community of Penrith to Jim and [shows] how much he would be missed.”
New Councillor Garion Thain shared his memories of Aitken, someone he has known for his whole life.
“The year he was elected to Council was the year that I was born,” he said.
“I remember a very generous and larger than life man. Penrith has lost an experienced and passionate advocate.”
New Councillor Hollie McLean shared a story of Aitken helping her in a time of need.
“I’m one of the few around here who never had the privilege of meeting him in person. I have a very different experience – I’m one of the people he helped find housing in Penrith,” McLean said.
“When I moved here 10 years ago, I was really struggling like most people do finding a rental… I was calling around real estate agents asking, ‘Can you help me?’… And do you know who called me back? It was Jim himself.
“He then helped me… go through the listings and find somewhere that was going to be suitable. It was because of him that I was able to find something in a timeframe that was actually really quick.”
Long-time Councillors Ross Fowler and Jim Aitken.
Jim Aitken was honoured at Council this week.
Jim Aitken served on Council for close to three decades.
Jim Aitken was honoured at Council this week for his work in Penrith.
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Media owners dice up democracy
There is an intriguing sub-plot playing out to next week’s US election, as the battle between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris reaches its conclusion.
Two of America’s biggest newspapers – The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times –have refused to endorse a candidate.
It is a significant break from tradition, and not a decision made by the papers’ editors or journalists.
The decision to neither endorse Trump nor Harris has been made from the papers’ owners – billionaire Jeff Bezos in the case of the Post , and biotech tycoon Patrick SoonShiong at the Times
For those not quite across how these things work, owners and publishers rarely have involvement in the day-to-day editorial operations of their papers. This ensures editorial independence, and that the influence of owners is kept to a minimum.
Indeed, it would not be unusual for the owner of a paper to be completely unaware of what’s appearing on the front page of their own publication the next day.
The fact that Bezos and Soon-Shiong have interfered when the stakes are this high is extraordinary, and unsurprisingly there has been fallout.
Resignations of editors and journalists, and condemnation from the wider media industry in the States and beyond.
You may wonder why this is so important.
Well if America is at a crossroads, so is its media. That has been the case for some time, and indeed is repeated around the world as citizen journalism, social media and clickbait dominates the news cycle.
At its core though, that pre-election editorial – something that happens here in Australia too and something that we’ve generally produced here at the Weekender for Federal and State Elections – is about trust.
The newspaper in question has spent the entire election period, and tenure of the sitting government, on the front line. It has watched and reported on every issue, had insight into the background of said issues, and has its finger on the pulse on how decisions and promises have impacted or will
“These publications have let their readers down”
impact individuals, business, the economy and so on.
A newspaper does not just dip into the election race for the run home, as many of its readers do. It was there from the start, so it is well placed to have a say.
More importantly it is about democracy.
Ironic really that when Donald Trump took office back in early 2017, The Washington Post declared: “Democracy dies in the darkness”.
Now it sits abandoning its readers, abandoning democracy in its own right.
You may ponder if the pre-election editorial has a place these days, when people have access to so much information themselves.
But I’d argue this is not the information age, if anything it’s the opposite.
In a world of fake news, distrust, curated news feeds and celebrity endorsement, there is something about traditional media that stands tall. And standing with it is pre-election editorials.
We can surely not live in a world where everyone from Taylor Swift to Beyonce is endorsing candidates, but major American newspapers cannot do so.
It is crazy, and it’s dangerous.
The decision by these owners has wide-ranging ramifications.
Many will see it as intimidation having worked. Fear being installed in publications, the opposite of what a newspaper should uphold.
Others will see it as weak, again – no reader should feel the publication they have chosen to pay to read, or subscribe to, does not have the strength of its convictions.
These publications have let their readers down. They have walked in significant numbers, with hundreds of thousands of subscribers abandoning them this past week.
It is not about changing or forcing votes.
It is about a newspaper exercising its independence and its place in democracy.
It is about proving to its readers that it’s not bought, that is not intimidated, that it is not fearful of retribution.
It is not about getting it right or wrong.
The Weekender for example has endorsed both the Labor and Liberal parties at elections of the past, often watching as the readership agreed at the voting booth, but equally watching as they did not.
It can be a good leveller for an editor too –when a readership clearly does not agree.
Should Donald Trump win the election when Americans go to the polls next week, we will be left to ponder what influence the sitting President will have over two of America’s three biggest newspapers.
Should Kamala Harris win, it is hard to imagine the readership of either paper trusting that their news source of choice is delivering fair and balanced reporting of a first-time President.
America’s third big newspaper, The New York Times, hasn’t been scared off endorsing a candidate.
It has backed Harris, arguing of Trump, “it is hard to imagine a candidate more unworthy to serve as President of the United States”. Agree or disagree, we know where The New York Times sits.
The interference in the independence of journalism by Bezos and Soon-Shiong is a dark day for international media.
The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times may never recover.
They may continue to print, thanks to the deep pockets of their owners, but respect? It has been lost.
Regardless of next week’s election result, democracy has suffered a defeat.
“Generous”: Tributes to beloved local doctor and former Mayor
Penrith Council this week acknowledged the service and dedication of former Councillor and Mayor Dr William ‘Bill’ Gayed.
Originally born in Egypt, Gayed emigrated to Australia from England in 1972 to practice medicine.
Gayed joined the St Marys Medical Centre in 1975 and then went on to open his own practice in Werrington in 1977.
He was first elected to Penrith City Council in 1987 as a Councillor and went on to serve as Mayor in 1992 and 1993.
Mayor Todd Carney spoke about the large amount of community service Gayed undertook during his time.
“During his time as Councillor, Dr Gayed successfully advocated for discounted property rates for elderly residents,” Carney said.
“Dr Gayed’s service to the community also included: founding the Senior Citizens’ Club in Werrington and radio station WOWFM, participating in several organisations to help people with disabilities, advocating for bike lanes in Penrith and working with Egyptian Coptics in Australia, for which he won a Coptic Achievement Award.”
In 2013, Gayed received the Australia Day Penrith Appreciation Award, in recognition of
his service to the Penrith community through a range of local organisations.
Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler shared his memories of Gayed.
“I well remember Bill Gayed. He was Mayor during my first term of Council, and I can remember the elation of the community,
particularly the ethnic community in the election of a migrant to Australia as Mayor of the great city of Penrith,” Fowler said.
“I’m very fond of the times I spent with Bill… Bill was very generous, very caring and one of those quiet achievers who did what he had to do, did it with the least fuss but the best of
interest and I’m sure as Mayor of Penrith and a Councillor for eight years he provided a lot of service to the community of Penrith, particularly the newer people into the city of Penrith.” Some of Gayed’s family were present in the chambers to receive a hard copy of the Mayoral Minute.
Bill Gayed as Mayor visiting Australia Day babies at Nepean Hospital in 1993. EMILY CHATE
LAW and ORDER
Police Snapshot Legal Matters
Kingswood: Man charged twice for driving while disqualified
A man has been caught two days in a row driving when his licence was disqualified.
At 3.55pm on Sunday, October 27 police were patrolling Kingswood and noticed a black Kia Picanto travelling west on Derby Street. The vehicle was seen accelerating harshly through an orange traffic light which turned red as the vehicle entered the intersection.
The vehicle made a right-hand turn from Derby Street, Kingswood into Parker Street. Police followed and activated their lights and sirens to stop the vehicle. The vehicle pulled over and police had a conversation with the driver, a 28-year-old Glenmore Park man.
The man became argumentative with police, and they asked him to produce his driver’s licence. The man told police he could not produce his licence as another police officer had taken it from him the day before.
Police enquired into what the man meant and the 28-year-old further informed police that he was charged the previous day for driving whilst disqualified.
Police made checks on the status of the man’s licence which revealed the licence had been disqualified since August for a speed related offence. Further checks revealed that the man was stopped on Saturday, October 26 at 12.15pm on the Glenmore Parkway and was charged for driving while disqualified. The man will appear in Penrith Local Court for this offence on Thursday, December 5.
The man was then taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged a second time for driving a vehicle while disqualified. The man appeared in Penrith Local Court yesterday for the second offence.
Cranebrook: Stolen car found, driver arrested
A disqualified driver has been arrested after being caught driving a stolen car.
At 12.05pm on Monday, October 20 a 2023 Toyota Hilux was left at an address in Granville. At 9.40pm on Sunday, October 27 the owner of the Hilux returned to collect the vehicle and could not locate it.
The vehicle had a tracker on it and the owner contacted 000 and informed them the car had been stolen. The man also informed 000 that the car was heading west on the M4. At 10.25pm the vehicle was located travelling on Laycock Street, Cranebrook. Police activated their lights and sirens causing the vehicle to stop. Police had a conversation
with the driver, a 23-year-old South Granville man and he was arrested.
The man informed police that he was given the car by a friend. The man also informed police that his driver’s licence was suspended which police confirmed to be correct.
The man was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, December 11.
Jamisontown: Man who failed to stop at traffic lights found drink driving
A man has been found to be driving under the influence after police saw him not stop at the lights.
At 8.35am on Friday, October 25 police were patrolling Mulgoa Road, Jamisontown. Police saw a vehicle approaching the intersection of Wolseley Street, the traffic lights turned orange, and the car made no attempt to stop. The lights then turned red, and the vehicle continued through the intersection.
Police activated their lights and sirens and stopped the vehicle, Police had a conversation with the 67-year-old Penrith man before breath testing him, which returned a positive result.
The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a further breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.128. The man’s licence was suspended on the spot.
The man was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, November 21.
Penrith: Man caught with knife in public place
A man has been caught carrying a knife in a public place.
At 3.20am on Wednesday, October 23 Police were conducting patrols around a small shopping centre in Woodriff Street, Penrith. When police arrived, they saw a male duck down behind a skip bin in the loading dock area.
Police got out of their vehicle and called to the male to come out to which he did. Police have had a conversation with the 32-year-old Penrith man where they asked him what he was doing at that time in the morning. The man told police he was collecting bubble wrap.
The man was searched and located in his front pants pocket was a folding knife.
The man was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, November 11.
LAST CHANCE TO BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME BEFORE CHRISTMAS with Daniel McKinnon
Each year at the end of October we write a column reminding our readers that there is only about six weeks left until the end of the working year.
Conveyancing and law firms will shut up shop on or about December 20, 2024 and reopen in the second or third week of January.
Usually this means that settlements of property transactions cannot take place during this closure period so if you are looking to buy or sell a property and settle the transaction prior to Christmas now is the time to act because time is running out.
The rapid approach of Christmas coincides with spring which often sees a glut of properties come onto the market as the weather warms up, yards and gardens start to look fantastic, and people are ready to hit the open home circuit.
Here are some tips if you are thinking about buying or selling in the next few weeks:
Selling:
1. Talk to your real estate agent about small changes you can make to your property that might make a difference during inspections. This might be fixing minor issues like loose door handles, cracked windows, or patching up a hole in the wall that you have been meaning to get to for some time. Neat and tidy properties that present well attract the most offers as people’s first impression of your property is what they see when they walk through the front door.
2. Do not tie yourself to a particular sale price. Your real estate agent has probably advised you of a range in which the price you receive for your property is likely to fall. It is unwise to mentally commit to the top end of the range and have that inform your decision making in terms of your next step, such as buying a new property. If you are selling to buy, you need to plan ahead by factoring in a sale price at the low end of the range as well as the top end of the range and speaking with your mortgage broker about how your sale price will affect how much money you can borrow and in turn the
price you can afford to pay for your next property.
3. Think about the logistics of settlement. On the settlement day, you need to give the property to your buyer empty (unless it is an investment property that you have a tenant in). This means not only removing all of your furniture and personal belongings but other moveable items such as old timber down the side of the house, broken bricks under the house, used tins of paint and stuff you haven’t seen for years.
Buying:
1. Your first step is to make sure you have spoken with your mortgage broker and have a preapproval in place so you understand how much money you are able to borrow which will inform the maximum amount you can offer on a property you want to buy. It is no secret that interest rates increased rapidly in 2022 and there is still a hangover effect of that because people cannot borrow as much money as they used to. Make sure you have spoken to your mortgage broker before you hit the open home circuit.
2. When you go to an open home or a private inspection, look closely at the property. While you will have an opportunity to get a pest and building report, you need to make sure you are aware of any obvious defects or issues before you formulate your offer. We often say to clients if somethings comes up in a pest and building report that would have been obvious to you when you formulated your offer it is going to be difficult to negotiate with the seller to rectify it or reduce the price.
3. Have a chat to your solicitor or conveyancer before you start going to open homes, particularly if you are a first home buyer. Buying a property can move at a rapid pace. One minute you are attending an open home and all of a sudden within 24 to 48 hours you have an offer accepted and a real estate agent is asking you to pay a deposit and sign a contract. It is important you understand the process.
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Council Briefs
● Unsure if your child car seat is installed correctly? Our popular child car seat safety check days are back! Penrith residents can now book a session with an authorised child restraint
Join us on either Saturday 2 November, 2024 or Saturday
Visit penrith.city/events
● Penrith City Council is inviting community feedback on the proposed design for a multi-million-dollar upgrade of
New football facilities are a key feature of the design including a new synthetic playing surface and amenities building,
Bill Ball Oval sporting infrastructure upgrades, car park improvements, more playspace equipment, pathways, lighting, new public toilets with Changing Places facilities, tree
You can share your feedback with Council in-person at
Or have your say at yoursaypenrith.com.au/cookpark
Development Consent/s Determined
Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the schedule below lists applications
Approved Development Applications
• Lot 9 DP 262009, 18 Ironbark Drive, Cranebrook the shed
• Lot 71 DP 270417, 16 Pennard Crescent, Luddenham Alterations and additions to existing dwelling
• Lot 62 DP 241119, 11 Turner Street, Colyton
• Lot 7 DP 1057523, 7 Brunswick Close, Colyton
• Lot 266 DP 270417, 9 Halmstad Boulevard, Luddenham
• Lot 8 DP 1299774, 31 Rance Road, Werrington
• Lot 110 DP 28389, 3 Arnold Avenue, St Marys
Conversion of part of the existing garage into a home business
● Construction is underway to improve car park drainage and of rain through the creation of a new drainage swale that aimed at improving the playing surfaces and bringing it up will allow sports activities to resume more quickly, ensuring
penrith.city/sports-upgrades
• Lot 1 DP 561805, 34 Senta Road, Londonderry
Installation of manufactured dwelling creating dual occupancy and OSSM
Refused Development Application
• Lot 381 DP 574654, 1048–1058 Castlereagh Road, Castlereagh Shed
Viewing of Development Applications
penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker
Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts
By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
Health squabble escalates
“Disappointed”: Nepean Private Hospital
TROY DODDS
Bupa customers will be charged an extra $100 for an overnight stay at Nepean Private Hospital after negotiations between the insurer and Healthscope broke down.
Healthscope, which runs Nepean Private Hospital, said it would charge patients insured with Bupa an extra $50 per day, or $100 for an overnight stay.
The new fees will start from November 26 and will be on top of any out-of-pocket costs patients will already face.
Healthscope has already reached agreements with other major insurers including NIB, HCF and MediBank Private, who will pay more in funding.
“We’ve been in negotiations with Bupa and Alliance funds now for many, many months, and we have been unable to get deals that are fairly funded for the quality healthcare that we provide,” Healthscope
Chief Executive Greg Horan told the Australian Financial Review
“It is not something we’ve wanted to do, but when we’re put into this
position where we have to ensure the viability of our business.”
Bupa CEO Nick Stone said he was “shocked and disappointed” with the decision.
“This is an unprecedented and
Development Applications
unfair move by Healthscope.
Everyday Australians should not be caught in the middle and penalised as a result of contract negotiations,” he said.
“We have reminded Healthscope
The following Development Applications have been received by Council:
• Ampol Australia Petroleum Pty Ltd
Lot 1 Power Street, St Marys
DA24/0791
Removal of existing underground fuel storage system infrastructure and completion of site remediation works
Contact: James Heathcote on 4732 8378
Closing Date: Sunday 1 December 2024
• Matsuplan Planning Services Pty Ltd
37 Bringelly Road, Kingswood
of their contractual obligations under our current three-year agreement which is designed to give patients certainty when they are at their most vulnerable seeking medical treatment. Bupa is commit-
ted to protecting its members and is actively considering all its options with respect to Healthscope proposing to unfairly charge our members.”
Rachel David, CEO of Private Healthcare Australia, the peak body for health funds, said the fee was a “new low” and that Healthscope and its North American owners Brookfield were trying to “extort money from health funds”.
“This is a deeply unethical move from a $1 trillion North American private equity firm holding privately insured patients’ hostage and trying to bully health funds into paying them more so they can increase profits,” she said.
“Brookfield was only ever in the Australian hospitals market for the short-term. It is trying to squeeze out as much profit as possible before it abandons Healthscope hospitals, potentially making private healthcare unaffordable in the process.
“Targeting patients is a new low. I have never seen a hospital group do this before. This will cause great distress and uncertainty for thousands of people trying to plan healthcare across Australian right now.”
DA24/0808
Construction of 2-storey boarding house including 15 boarding rooms and basement car parking
Contact: Wendy Connell on 4732 7908
Closing Date: Sunday 17 November 2024
Integrated Development
Penrith City Council have received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council.
• The Trustee for O’Connell Street Caddens Unit Trust
Mod24/0178
Lot 3 DP 1103503 & Lot 6 DP 593628 and 46–66 & 46b OConnell Street, Caddens
development
The original proposal was Integrated Development. The application will be referred to Rural Fire Service and Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Water.
The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected period from Monday 4 November 2024 to Sunday 17 November 2024.
Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be number Mod24/0178.
For any queries relating to the proposal: James Heathcote on 4732 8378.
Nepean Private Hospital. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Located on Level 1, Pullman Sydney Penrith 81 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith
Why are Christmas trees bad at knitting? A: They always drop their needles.
cupboard prize
VTech is releasing a thrilling new range of fun, interactive and educational toys in time for the festive season!
VTech creates high-quality, innovative toys that enrich and enhance children’s development through fun, play and exploration.
A gift from VTech will offer more than just fun, it is incredible value for money that will help your child reach important learning milestones while they play. With a wide range of play-based learning toys for all budgets and ages, VTech has your festive season shopping sorted.
Consider the Soothing Starlight Igloo ($39.95), which projects a peaceful starry sky with twinkling lights on the ceiling. You can also choose to project a night light for a softer glow. The igloo comes with a removable and machine-washable plush penguin that can accompany babies out and about during the day. Or have a wheel-y great time with the
Sort & Discover Activity Wagon ($59.95) that’s full of activities on the outside and has plenty of space on the inside to fill with favourite toys, snacks and more!
That’s just two of the great VTech range. For further information on VTech and
its products, visit www.vtech.com.au.
The Weekender has two VTech prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Toys’ in the subject line. Don’t
paceway winners lucky
Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender Club members can pick up a free specially numbered
bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.
Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-
Dose Dorin of SPY
This week’s lucky winners are: 0111, 0547, 1021. Joke Week of the
Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.
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way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week!
Do you know where this picture was taken?
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LAST WEEK’S ANSWER
The image of Ivan Cleary, Penrith MP Karen McKeown and Nathan Cleary holding a ‘key to the city’ is located at McKeown’s office on High Street, Penrith.
Students cheer as new facilities open at Cambridge Gardens
Construction has officially been completed at Cambridge Gardens Public School after a major upgrade.
The second and final stage of upgrades at the school saw students able to use the brand-new restroom facilities on the first day of Term 4 after construction was finished ahead of schedule.
NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car and State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown last week joined School Principal Adam Wynn and student leaders to unveil the new facilities.
“I am so pleased to be able to deliver the second and final stage of our election commitment to students and staff at Cambridge Gardens Public School,” Car said.
“These completed upgrades demonstrate our commitment to providing safe, high-quality facilities for our students – and it doesn’t stop here. We will continue to provide every child across the state with the opportunity to learn, play and grow in the best environment possible.”
your say on the proposed drainage
Transport for NSW is seeking community feedback on the proposed drainage improvements on Springwood Road. This is one part of the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley Flood Evacuation Road Resilience Program. The community is invited to provide feedback on the concept design until 24 November 2024 Your feedback wi ll help us understand what is important to the community and identify ways to reduce potential impacts.
Proposed improvements include:
•upgrading drainage at key low points along Springwood Road and
•installi ng new culverts and constructing mounds to direct water away from roads into drainage
adjusting utility services as required (electrical, gas, water and communication lines)
•resurfacing roads where new drainage is being installed.
For more information, please scan the QR code or visit transport.nsw.gov.au/hnvferrp
For any further enquiries, contact us at: 1800 684 490 hnvferrpinfo@transport.nsw.gov.au
McKeown shared her delight that local schools are getting much needed upgrades.
“It is so rewarding to see much needed school infrastructure being delivered for students and families in our fast-growing western Sydney suburbs,” McKeown said.
“I can’t tell you how proud I am to be part of a government that prioritises education and delivers on its commitments to building high-quality learning facilities where they are needed the most.”
The new restroom facilities follow the completion of the first stage of construction – the resurfacing of the basketball court which was unveiled in August.
Wynn said it was great to see so much investment in the local school.
“Our students were already excited with their new basketball court last term, and now we have these new amenities to see the year out,” Wynn said.
“This upgrade makes our awesome school an even better place to come and learn, and we thank the NSW Government for investing in our school and our students’ futures.”
Deputy Premier Prue Car and Penrith MP Karen McKeown celebrating the completion of construction.
EMILY CHATE
Tributes flow for father
“We’re here with you”: Family tries to comprehend loss of their
ALLY HALL
Afamily has lost their protector.
Lual Awan Lueth didn’t return home to his wife and eight children after being hit by an alleged dangerous driver on his commute to work in St Marys about 4am on Tuesday, October 22.
Lueth’s nephew Yuol Yuol remembers his uncle as a caring joke-maker who was always smiling and played a huge role in getting his family to Australia safely.
“When we came from South Sudan, we had to escape the violence back home, and in order for everyone to make it out you’ve got to have someone strong to protect you to get out of that area, so he was one of those people,” Yuol explained.
Yuol received a distressing phone call from his family while he was getting ready for work last Tuesday, but no one could tell him what happened until he arrived at their home.
“Everyone was still distraught, no one was willing to say a word,” Yuol said.
Eventually, one of the children
hero
Haufano will remain in custody and is expected to appear in
A floral tribute to Lueth remains roadside on the Great Western Highway where the beloved father
If you’d like to support Lueth’s family, you can donate at www. gofundme.com/f/fundraising-forthe-family-of-lual-awan-lueth.
Parramatta man Edgar Haufano, who faced Mt Druitt Local Court on Thursday, October 24. He has been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, driving recklessly and driving while disqualified.
Penrith
Lual Awan Lueth.
Floral tributes on the side of the Great Western Highway at St Marys. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Hospital cafeteria to serve last meal
CHATE
Nepean Hospital staff have been left in the dark after hearing the news that the hospital’s cafeteria will be shutting down for good.
Staff at the hospital were told two weeks ago that the cafeteria would be closing on Friday, November 1 and quickly voiced their concern through a petition, according to a worker in the hospital who has requested to remain anonymous.
“They had thousands of signatures on the petition that went to them but because a lot of them were not union members they didn’t count them,” they said.
“A lot of them were doctors, a lot of them were nurses but unfortunately, they are in different unions than what we are or what the cafeteria is, so they wouldn’t recognise them.
“We had a meeting with the union and all they said was that there were only a dozen people who turned up because it is really hard when you are working in a hospital that you can’t just leave a patient unattended to attend a meeting.”
The hospital worker said that while there is other food options around the hospital precinct, it is more expensive and takes time out of staff breaks.
“We have cafeterias around us. We have a lot around us but… they’re more expensive. We
can get a large drink in here for $4.50 whereas everywhere else you are looking at $6 or $7,” they said.
“It’s also inconvenient because you have to go off-site to go to any of the other cafeterias. Staff just don’t have the time to do it.”
The source has worked at Nepean Hospital for five years and shared they use the cafeteria every day.
“It’s widely used,” they said.
“They have hot food there every day, they’ve got sandwiches there for lunches, and they have hot chocolate and coffee.
“I personally go there every day and have signed I don’t know how many petitions, but nothing seems to be happening.”
The Weekender reached out to HealthShare NSW, which operates the cafeteria.
They confirmed that the doors will be shut on the food outlet.
“HealthShare NSW is ceasing to operate the Nepean Cafeteria at Nepean Hospital to increase its capacity to focus on the preparation and delivery of patient meals,” a spokesperson for HealthShare NSW said.
“There are several alternative retail food outlets available on site for staff and visitors to purchase food and beverages from.
“HealthShare NSW has worked closely with the small number of affected staff to redeploy them to other suitable positions.”
As it stands the Nepean Hospital cafeteria is expected to shut its doors today.
Nepean Hospital. Photo: Melinda Jane.
EMILY
Health in spotlight as Lindsay ranks poorly
Lindsay has been identified as the most at risk electorate in NSW when it comes to health after new data was released.
The inaugural Wesfarmers Health: Australia’s Health Index report was launched in Parliament House by Wesfarmers Managing Director Emily Amos and Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney and reported that Lindsay had the highest Index score, which according to Wesfarmers Health pharmacist Amy Jones is due to a number of factors.
“This score is based on the prevalence of the four risk factors associated with cardiometabolic disease, which is Australia’s biggest killer, accounting for one in four adult deaths,” Jones said.
“These risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, daily smoking and diabetes risk.”
Of these risk factors, Lindsay ranks highly in most – a major concern for the area.
“Residents of Lindsay compared to the rest of NSW have higher rates of obesity at 39.5 per cent compared
to the state average of 25.5 per cent,” Jones said.
“Daily smoking rates are also higher at 15.6 per cent compared to the state average 12.9 per cent. Meanwhile, known diabetes rates are reported at 9.9 per cent compared to 6.2 per cent.
“However, it is a more positive story when it comes to high blood pressure rates, with Lindsay having significantly lower blood pressure rates at 18.3 per cent, compared to the state average of 28.5 per cent.”
Jones explained part of the reason behind Lindsay being labelled the most at risk electorate has links to the socio-economic standing of the electorate.
“A primary cause is the relatively low median income for Lindsay. The links between income and health outcomes are well established,” she said.
“Socio-economic factors, as measured by the Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (IRSD), play a significant role in these outcomes. Electorates with lower IRSD scores often face challenges like limited healthcare access and lower health literacy, leading to poorer health results.
“In Lindsay, the average family
BIGGEST
weekly income is $2,177. Comparing that to $3,150 in Bradfield, NSW’s healthiest electorate, shows a disparity of 45 per cent.
“It’s a pattern we see across the country. Accessibility and affordability of health is key to positive health outcomes.”
To curb the risk factors in personal health, Jones recommended a few tips.
“Change of habits and behaviours are key, along with knowing your numbers like your blood pressure and weight,” Jones said.
“High blood pressure for example can be asymptomatic and a leading risk factor in cardiovascular disease. Exercise, eating better and reducing your intake of alcohol and tobacco will all have you heading in the right direction.
“In order to track improvements, a great place to start is to visit one of the SiSU Health Stations, available in Priceline Pharmacies across the country. These checks are free, able to be completed in under five minutes and are a great way to identify risk factors before they escalate, making better health outcomes more accessible. Most importantly you can track your risk and biometrics over time.”
Amy Jones with Dr Nick Coatsworth.
Wesfarmers Health panel including Emily Amos, Dr Karam Kostner, Amy Jones and Noel Duncan.
St Marys steps into future
Council reveals long-term vision for Town Centre
Penrith City Council is inviting the community to give their feedback on draft plans that will decide the future of the St Marys Town Centre.
Both the draft St Marys Town Centre Master Plan and the design concept for the St Marys Central Park will be on public exhibition from Monday, November 4 to Saturday, November 30 after Council this week voted to endorse the exhibition.
“We’ve been working collaboratively with the community, local businesses, government stakehold
western Sydney as construction of the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport rail line continues.
The draft plan shows how Council will achieve its vision for a revitalised Town Centre across key areas like infrastructure, housing, employment, open space areas and transport through its key outcomes.
The draft plan highlights the rejuvenation of Queen Street as a mixed use ‘high street’ entertainment and dining precinct.
It speaks of a consolidated Commercial Core complemented by a new co-working and creative hub of activity on the northern approach to the Town Centre.
The plan also aims for retention
rich past, sensitively intensified to support housing growth in a transit-oriented centre.
There is a peripheral vehicular movement corridor around the Town Centre Core streamlining through-traffic and bus movement and protecting Queen Street’s ‘place’ function.
There will be consolidation of public car parking spaces into multi-deck structures accessible via the peripheral movement corridor, enabling redevelopment opportunities within the Town Centre.
Along with new and improved public open spaces, the plan includes enhanced connections to Wianamatta South Creek and restoration of the creek corridor.
Councillor Garion Thain spoke in favour of the draft plan, saying it was important to speak with people
“Having read the draft Master Plan it’s just incredibly exciting for St Marys,” he said.
“I think it’s great that we are doing this on a local level, engaging with local stakeholders because no one knows St Marys better than the people that live in this LGA and call
Councillor Reece Nuttall also spoke in favour of the motion, saying the only way forward is to consult with the community.
“We have one vision and that is to service the people of Penrith,” he said.
“This going on public exhibition is the only way that we, as Councillors, can understand what issues face our constituents and people in our community.”
Council has also prepared a design concept for the St Marys Central Park project, which will supplement the St Marys Town Centre plan.
The Central Park will see the connection of Coachman’s Park and
The new park will have an entertainment area, new children’s play space including waterplay, lawn area, trees, pathways and lighting.
To have your say on the draft plans, visit www.yoursaypenrith. com.au/stmarys or attend one of the in-person feedback sessions which are being held at Coachman’s Park on Wednesday, November 6 from 10am to 12pm, St Marys Library on Wednesday, November 13 from 4pm to 6pm and Village Café in Wattle Park on Thursday, November 21 from 9.30am to 11.30am.
Taser deployments in Penrith increase, new statistics show
New statistics have revealed an increase in taser deployments in Penrith.
There has been a 28.2 per cent annual increase in the last five years in Penrith for the number of taser deployments by police. In the year of July 2019 to June 2020 there were 20 deployments, which steadily increased each year to a total of 54 in the year of July 2023 to June 2024.
The numbers have been revealed via a new interactive tool produced by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).
A spokesperson for NSW Police said the use of tasers only happens when called for.
“Nepean Police continue to use tasers when appropriate and within the guidelines set out in the taser use standard operating procedures,” the spokesperson said.
“Where appropriate, Nepean Police will utilise, where justified, tasers to ensure the safety of all persons involved in a situation.”
Meanwhile, in the year of July 2019 to June 2020 the number of Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks conducted by NSW police in Penrith sat at 1,331. The numbers remained stable in the following year but saw a spike in the year of July 2021 to June 2022 to 3,027. The number of ADVO checks dropped to 2,357 in the year of July 2022 to June 2023 then to 1,537 in the year of July 2023 to June 2024.
The NSW Police spokesperson confirmed that compliance checks are continuing to be undertaken with specific targets.
“Nepean PAC (Police Area Command) continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) checks,” the spokesperson said.
“These are carried out to ensure there is compliance by the defendants and we specifically target defendants we consider high risk.
“Nepean PAC urge anyone with information regarding potential breaches of an ADVO or any domestic violence to contact Penrith or St Marys Police Stations or Crime Stoppers.”
Searches conducted by Police spiked in the year between July 2019 to June 2020 at 6,905 before dropping to 5,384 in the year of July 2020 to June 2021, before elevating to 6,720 in the year of July 2022 to June 2023 before reaching its lowest in five years at 4,153 in the year of July 2023 to June 2024. In the year of July 2023 to June 2024 there were a total of 3,617 person searches, 22 strip searches and 514 vehicle searches in the Penrith area.
In the last five years the highest number of move-on directions issued by police was in the year of July 2022 to June 2023 which saw 2,739. The lowest was recorded in the year of July 2020 to June 2021 with 1,995 recorded. In the most recent year of July 2023 to June 2024, there were 2,019 recorded.
There was a significant increase in bail compliance checks between July 2020 to June 2021 with 1,013 checks recorded to 3,142 in the year of July 2021 to June 2022. Since then, the number has continued to decrease, sitting at 2,452 in July 2022 to June 2023 and down to 1,360 in the year of July 2023 to June 2024.
The number of non-criminal domestic violence epsiodes recorded by NSW police has remained at a stable level for the past five years but are notably high.
There were 3,768 episodes recorded in the year of July 2019 to June 2020 and 3,359 episodes recorded in the year of July 2023 to June 2024.
Kokoda Park into one and act as the civic green heart of St Marys.
Visualisation of Kungala Street and the Green Spine Living Precinct.
ANZ opens new-look branch in Penrith CBD; MP cuts ribbon
Atrip to the bank isn’t usually considered a luxury experience, but Penrith’s refurbished ANZ branch is challenging that notion after its grand re-opening last Friday.
The new office invites customers into a welcoming space with light oak furnishings, lush greenery, and the classic ANZ blue.
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown praised the renovation and congratulated the bank on its investment in the community after cutting the ribbon.
“ANZ has put about $1.4 million into the refurb of this branch,” McKeown said.
“They’ve increased staff, so it’s gone from about eight staff to 11 staff which is great for local employment.”
Friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere aren’t the only attractions at the financial institution.
“The technology that’s been incorporated here well and truly brings us into the 21st
century,” McKeown explained.
“They’ve got all the additions to help people who are not that computer literate that maybe don’t have all the devices at home that they need, they can pop in here and speak to the staff and they’re more than ready, willing and able to assist.”
Branch Manager Tushar Mehta said he couldn’t be prouder of the refurbishment, and explained that while they were closed, their
dedication to the community never waivered.
“It took about six weeks to complete, but the important thing is we were not ready to give up, so we actually started a kiosk in Westfield Penrith,” Mehta said.
“The idea behind it was to make sure customers were still attended to.”
The temporary kiosk was so successful, it will now be kept until January 2025 as a second point of contact.
The ribbon was cut on Penrith’s new-look ANZ branch last week. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Inside the new-look branch.
ALLY HALL
Flying Femme Fatales of
Veteran journalist Terry Gallaway reflects on
Penrith stormed into the “Roaring Twenties” 100 years ago this month with the opening of the Penrith speedway – a dirt track that, in a few very short months, would earn the title “the best in the world”.
The D-shaped one mile (1.6 kilo-
metre) dirt track located on the site of the present day Thornton development, designed and promoted by the Western Districts Motor Cycle Club on land then owned by local State MP Sydney Smith, attracted 6000 spectators to its Easter opening event in 1924.
It rivalled Maroubra’s notorious Olympia speed bowl, with its almost vertical, concrete walls, that would
cost the lives of six car drivers, and two motorcycle riders in the 18 months after it opened
Over the ensuing years, the best riders and drivers in the world, all anxious to prove their superiority to “do it in the dirt” came to Penrith.
“Over
the best riders and drivers in the world came to Penrith”
It also attracted the attendance of two daredevil young women, whose successes on the circuit, ironically, would contribute to its eventual closure.
Melbourne socialite Marie Jenkins became the first woman in Australia to win a championship race, a five mile handicap, at Maroubra, The enigmatic Lithgow socialite,
charity sponsor, and the wife of a local brewer, Mrs J.A.S. Jones also entered the fray.
Then “Flying” Faye Taylour made her appearance in the motorcycle events, in her self-funded tour of Australia and New Zealand speedways.
The Irish-born, glamorous, devilmay-care rider attracted massive publicity, with promoters seeking
her attendance at races around the nation.
The pair won many events, but rumours of race-fixing by promoters to ensure their successes eventually led to dissention among male competitors and spectators.
The winning women proved too much of a challenge for some racers, and in 1930, speedway’s organisers barred women from competing in
The famous Fay Taylour raced at Penrith.
TERRY GALLAWAY
Mrs J.A.S Jones behind the wheel.
the Penrith Speedway
Speedway, and the women who conquered some of racing’s traditions
all speedway events. The reasons were never officially published.
But the sport continued its popularity
At Penrith Speedway, and Maroubra, heroes emerged, drivers who showed no fear and
amazing skills behind the wheel and at the handlebars of the Douglas and Zenith motorcycles of the era.
Teenagers worshipped the likes of car drivers Hope Bartlett and Phil Garlick, and their daredevil feats on the Maroubra concrete and in the dirt and dust of Penrith on both motorcycles and in the big roaring cars.
Bartlett earned the reputation of the most fearless of all pushing his big Sunbeam or Bugatti at speeds of up to and sometimes more than 100 miles an hour (163km/h).
Garlick would lose his life at Maroubra on January 8, 1927, crashing over the wall and into an electric light pole at more than 95 miles an hour (152 km/h), the third driver to die in race crashes on the bowl.
After the ban, Taylour took to midget car racing in the United States, but, the 1930s ended all that.
Politically active, she became an acolyte of Adolf Hitler and the rising Nazi Black Shirts in Britain, and is reported to have had a portrait of the dictator on her bedside table.
Throughout World War II, Taylour maintained her support for the Fascists, taking part in public rallies, and anti-Semitic protests.
Her behaviour came under the notice of British Intelligence, the US withdrew her visa, and anti-Nazi motor sport officials would not accept her race entry.
The 1930s also proved a struggle for the Penrith track, with a legal battle with the
local council over flooding, the death of the promoter, and the ban on women competing.
In 1936 Frank Arthur, Australia’s, first speedway world champion, took over as promoter, but two years later tragedy struck with the deaths of spectators Maria Jones and her two grandchildren Walter, 2, and Pamela, five months, when a driver lost control, and
crashed into them. It is known as one of Penrith’s darkest days.
The accident also proved the death knell for the Speedway, and in 1941 the army acquired the land.
Today, Thornton Oval sits as a reminder of the incredible history this part of Penrith holds.
Mrs J.A.S. Jones behind the wheel of her car on a race day.
Fay Taylour promoting midget car racing.
New hub is a real plus
Salvation Army’s Employment Plus hub helps parents break into workforce
The Salvation Army Employment Plus is turning Penrith into a full-time hub for parents who want to break into the workforce.
Through the Parent Pathways Program, parents and carers with children under six-years-old are eligible to receive obligation-free support and training to prepare for the future.
In addition to Penrith’s full-time site at 29 Doonmore Street, Claremont Meadows and Merrylands will operate part-time.
“When we were doing the original thinking as part of the tender, we noticed that as compared to national or New South Wales state averages, there’s a slightly lower educational attainment in the Penrith area,” said Richard Wingrove, General Manager Operations Specialist Programs at Employment Plus.
“That usually translates to opportunities to help people with skills, accredited training… or even informal training to help people
on an employment pathway.”
The program works by connecting participants to the Salvation Army’s services and
partners – another reason Penrith was an appealing destination.
“It’s a part of Sydney where we’ve got quite
deep roots and significant services,” said Wingrove.
“It’s the western end of a really important region so it’s
BLUE MOUNTAINS ABC FRIENDS
Proudly presents distinguished journalist, author and broadcaster
Quentin Dempster
As their Special Guest Speaker this November
Quentin Dempster worked at the ABC for 30 years (1984-2014) as a political and investigative reporter, TV current affairs presenter and interviewer, following a career as chief political reporter and columnist for the Brisbane Telegraph. Quentin is a former staff-elected director of the ABC (1992-1996) and former chairman of The Walkley Foundation. In 1992 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to journalism and current affairs.
Quentin will draw on his remarkable media experience, to speak about the challenges facing the ABC, including:
• the threats to our ABC and the consequent threats to Australian democracy
• the impact of 10 years of funding cuts to the ABC
• ABC managements role in supporting its staff.
All welcome!
Date: Saturday 9th November 2024, at 11am. RSVP: https://www.abcfriends.net.au/quentin
Venue: Wentworth Falls School of Arts 217-219 Great Western Highway Wentworth Falls
Enquiries: Sue Noske (0421 020 610) or Sue Bate (0409 744 196)
western
accessible to a lot of people, it’s a community with lots of young parents compared to other communities around the country.”
And educational pathways aren’t the only focus of the program.
Salvation Army Employment Plus’ National Director, Dr Graeme White, explained parents can also access assistance with personal issues prior to working towards future aspirations.
“The Salvation Army offers both basic living assistance as well as an array of effective wrap-around programs to help parents with any underlying issues like homelessness, domestic violence, drug dependence or financial difficulties,” said Dr White.
“Helping parents with these challenges makes looking for work and holding down a job much easier.”
The Penrith location will open on November 6. Those interested in joining the program can contact the Salvation Army on 136 123.
Mayor’s News
The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor
Vision for Mayoral term
I begin this term as Mayor at an incredibly exciting time for Penrith and our region. With the Western Sydney International Airport and the metro railway opening in just two years, Penrith is at the heart of one of Australia’s fastest growing regions.
thrilled that we’re another step closer, as Council is just about to kick off the next round of consultation, with exhibition of the draft Master Plan and the concept design for the central park.
As Mayor, one of my key priorities is to ensure we realise the benefits of growth for everyone, while also protecting and enhancing the things we value most. This includes our quality of life, our community spirit, being able to work and play close to home, access all the services we need, and our beautiful environment and connection to nature. Listening to our community is a top priority. I recognise that change can be challenging, especially with many people juggling busy lives and other pressures. I’m committed to hearing the diverse voices of our community while we work to embrace new opportunities, and address challenges together.
Delivering on the community’s aspiration for a more vibrant and beautiful town centre at St Marys remains a priority. I’m
This term as Mayor, I’ll continue to advocate for essential infrastructure to unlock Penrith’s potential, enabling economic development, job creation, and improved resilience. Collaboration across government and with other stakeholders will be vital, and I’ll continue to represent Penrith as a champion for Western Sydney.
I’ll also continue to push for investment in our beautiful Nepean River and Penrith Lakes, providing crucial recreation opportunities and community connections. Together with my fellow councillors, we are united in our commitment to fostering a welcoming, diverse, and resilient community. We’re enormously proud of our City and our people and looking forward to working together to achieve great things for Penrith in this term.
CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith
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The Salvation Army is helping people return to or enter the workforce through its employment hub.
ALLY HALL
NAB banks on generosity to raise funds for local charities
Three local charities
will receive a share of more than $45,000 after NAB Penrith’s Call for a Cause fundraiser last week.
The team of bankers donned their brightest pink outfits on Wednesday, October 23, as they called clients to raise money for The Haven, Penrith Community Kitchen, and Pink Up Penrith.
“NAB’s about more than money... and one of the things we’ve been doing in the past 10 or so years is one day a year we give our customers a call and ask them to support local charities,” said Peter Vickery, Manager of Business Banking at the Penrith branch.
“We do prefer the smaller local charities so the impact is local.”
He explained they do fundraising in October because it’s leading up to Christmas and businesses have started new financial years.
“People are giving, and people want to give back, and a lot of them are moved by the stories of what the charities
do as well, so I think that does help drive generosity and compassion when they make a donation,” said Vickery.
One particular charity that pulled Vickery’s heartstrings was Penrith Community Kitchen, an organisation that
feeds more people in need than he first thought.
“We see that initially as a charity that feeds the home-
less, but now myself and my team understand that they also provide breakfast and snacks to 11 local schools for underprivileged students who may come to school without having breakfast,” Vickery explained.
“They know that they get their nutrition and food by attending school, which helps encourage them to attend school, to get an education, and takes the worry from some parents.”
The branch chooses different charities each year, sometimes with the help of clients – but that’s not why they do it.
“We do it because we can and we’ve got the contacts, and if we had more, we would ring more,” he said.
With Pink Up Penrith also receiving funds, the tally for Penrith’s popular October charity drive has notched higher.
Details around the final
Up Penrith figures will be known in coming days.
Pink
NAB’s Penrith branch held its Call for a Cause fundraiser last week.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
ALLY HALL
Teacher joins elite class
Regentville Public School educator honoured with HALT Accreditation
Alocal school teacher has been celebrated for attaining one of the highest levels of accreditation in a prestigious ceremony at Parliament House last week on World Teachers’ Day.
Regentville Public School teacher Denise Robens was one of 34 New South Wales teachers who was recognised for achieving the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) Accreditation.
The HALT accreditation reflects on the innovative teaching practices of educators that enhance and improve learning outcomes across schools and early childhood services.
Robens said the accreditation was something she wanted to pursue, despite the significant process involved.
“It was a time in my career where I thought I’ve been teaching a long time and I looked at the National Standards when it came through and I thought I’d like to see if I’m meeting those standards in my teaching practice,” Robens said.
Robens has been a teacher for over three decades but has been working at Regentville Public School for 12 years, where she is currently teaching Year Three.
“I have a passion for it,” Robens said “It’s amazing getting to know the children and see them progress.
“Every day facing children is very special because they are very special. They are so innocent and absorbing.
“To see their beautiful faces every day, I am very privileged really.”
The NSW Education Standards Authority Chief Executive Officer Paul Martin congratulated the newly accredited HALT teachers.
“It is fantastic to see such a strong calibre of teachers being recognised in this year’s cohort of HALT accredited teachers and to celebrate their skills and accomplishment,” Martin said.
“I encourage more teachers to pursue HALT accreditation. It is a wonderful achievement that recognises the expertise and quality of teachers in NSW and encourages professional growth from within the teaching profession.
“Congratulations to all HALT recipients today, we value your contribution to education and our students.”
NSW now has 366 HALT accredited teachers statewide in NSW classrooms and early childhood centres, with more than 1,000 teachers having started the application process.
Recycle or repair: Get on your bike
Cyclists from across the region will gather at the Kingsway Playing Fields this weekend for Penrith’s second ‘Recycle your Bicycle’ event.
It was first held in May 2023, and Penrith City Council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer Carla Nelmes said its success spun the wheels for the next event.
“I think we had around 150 attendees and 150 bikes were dropped off and it was estimated around 1.5 tonnes of bike parts were donated and 60 bikes were repaired, so we thought, ‘Well, that’s a good start’,” Nelmes said.
The project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy initiative, which helps reduce the number of bikes in landfills and contributes to
the circular economy.
“Pretty much every part of a bike can be recycled, whether it’s [for] playgrounds, whether it’s the frames being reused, there’s titanium, there’s aluminium, rubber – so many valuable resources,” Nelmes said.
Council have partnered with Revolve ReCYCLING to deliver the tunes and check-ups.
“They will be the mechanics, and our first event we had four, and this year we’ll be having six,” Nelmes explained.
“They are only 15-minute repairs, but it’s more of a service, so if you’ve got a flat tyre, brakes, realignment, things like that, we can help with that.”
The event will run from 9am to 2pm on Saturday, November 2, and the Council are planning to hold repair workshops at various events over the next year. Repair bookings are essential.
Visit the Council website for details.
is
a
Celebrate the joy of the festive season with us.
Christmas Day Lunch $239pp
Indulge in a festive spread of fresh seafood, charcuterie, main meals, sides, decadent desserts and a beverage package
Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve Dinner from $75pp
Celebrate with family and friends over a two or three course menu crafted by our culinar y team
Denise Robens accepting her accreditation last week. EMILY CHATE
Council
holding
‘Recycle your Bicycle’ event this weekend.
ALLY HALL
Preschoolers start connection to culture by learning language
Preschoolers at Kingswood Park Public School Preschool have been learning the local Aboriginal language to kickstart their connection to culture and language before they start formal schooling.
For the last three years, Kingswood Park Public School Preschool has been a part of the NSW Department of Education’s Preschool Aboriginal Language Program where preschoolers spend one hour a week learning the Dharug language from an Aboriginal Education Officer.
The children learn over 100 words a year and can put the words into sentences.
The language is also embedded throughout the preschool and the rest of the children’s week including in the welcome signs, murals, songs, games, posters, toys and the names of the two groups of children.
NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said more than 7,500 children in early childhood education and care services across NSW were learning an Aboriginal language before they started school.
“All children benefit from learning an Aboriginal language and gaining an enriched and deeper understanding, appreciation and respect of the world’s oldest living culture,” Dizdar said.
“For Aboriginal children, the learning of their local Aboriginal language at an early age validates their identities, strengthens their self-esteem and galvanises sense of belonging to their culture, land, families and communities.
“NSW Aboriginal Languages Week also celebrates the role of Elders and community members for their work refreshing, revitalising and reclaiming local languages and teaching and mentoring current and future generations.”
NSW Aboriginal Languages Week was held last week from October 20-27 with the hope of raising awareness, sparking conversations and highlighting the work of communities trying to revtialise Aboriginal languages.
Currently, about 49 per cent of the children at Kingswood Park Public School are Aboriginal.
The Aboriginal Education Officer has also started running weekly language lessons for at least a term for every class in the school, from Kindergarten to Year 6.
Around 6,500 children in non-government early childhood education services are learning an Aboriginal language through the Ninganah No More program funded by the NSW Department of Education.
This includes more than 2,000 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children engaged in learning their local language.
A further 925 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children at NSW public preschools are learning a local language through the department’s Preschool Aboriginal Language Program.
Currently, 23 public preschools in NSW participate in the Preschool Aboriginal Language Program, learning languages including Paakantji, Dhurga, Gamilaraay, Dharawal, Dhaurg, Bundjalung, Wiradjuri, Yorta Yorta, Gathang, Dharug Dhalang, Awabakal and Darkinjung.
Aboriginal Education Officer Lauren Braley leading a lesson.
EMILY CHATE
Δ Recipe book with a difference: Chef and bestselling cookbook author Ross Dobson has a hobby: scouring old journals, newspapers and books for Australia’s ‘forgotten’ recipes. While his research has revealed some shockers not worth repeating, he has come across many more worthy dishes that are missing from the repertoire of modern-day cooks. In The Lost Recipes (pictured above) he sets about righting this culinary injustice by presenting a selection of bygone gems, savoury and sweet, dating from the Victorian era through
to the 1950s – all of them rescued, researched, tested and updated by Dobson. The Lost Recipes is out now through Echo.
Δ Dare you to try it: Dare has unveiled two brand new brews for caffeine kicks with no added sugar. No Sugar Added Intense Espresso (pictured) and Double Espresso Protein will hit supermarkets later this month.
Δ Burger Head founder departs: Josh Deluca, one of the founders of Burger Head, is leaving the business in Australia. The burger operation continues without Deluca, who is heading
overseas to start the venture in Bali.
Δ Library anniversary: Blue Mountains Library is celebrating its 50th birthday. To celebrate, Blue Mountains Library is hosting a series of activities and events for 50 days, featuring a photographic trip down memory lane, Library of the Future competition and creation of a time capsule, all culminating in a Golden Anniversary Party on Saturday, November 16 at all Library branches. Find out more about what Blue Mountains Library offers, and the
anniversary activities at www.library.bmcc. nsw.gov.au. Pictured below left is Deputy Mayor Romola Hollywood and Mayor Mark Greenhill at Springwood Library.
Δ Classic makes a comeback: Solvol, the iconic heavy-duty hand cleaning soap trusted by generations of Australians, is back with a new enhanced formulation that blends a powerful cleaner with a gentle, natural moisturiser. The Solvol Heavy-Duty Hand Cleaner 100g is RRP $7.00, and available from Bunnings Warehouse, Mitre 10, The Reject Shop and Total Tools nationwide.
Δ
Δ New pizza joint: The Manooch Club, a new pizza restaurant, will open on Caloola Avenue in Penrith this week.
Greek delight: A new Greek eatery will open at Westfield Penrith in the coming weeks. It’ll be part of the Riley Street strip of restaurants.
The
This
The
SELWOOD
Top quality care for your pets
The first and foremost reason for the scarcity of veterinary appointments is the shortage of veterinarians. The demand for veterinary services has surged due to the growing pet population, increased awareness of pet healthcare, and the expansion of specialised treatments. Unfortunately, the supply of veterinarians has not kept pace. This imbalance results in overcrowded schedules, limited availability, and longer wait times for appointments. This is placing additional burdens on veterinarians with an increased risk of burnout or mental health disease.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation. Veterinary clinics faced increased demand as more people adopted pets during lockdowns. The rising cost of veterinary care compounds the issue. As veterinarians seek to provide the best care, diagnostic tools, equipment, and
There has recently been a parliamentary inquiry into the challenges facing the veterinary profession in Australia, with hope that the situa-
Santa Paws (Nurse Brooke)
Photog rapher (Dr Lynn)
Novemb er 15th and 16th at Selwood House Vets.
Call 0 2 475 8 899 0 for b ookings
All proceeds go towards the Vanessa Grant Trust, a charity brinig ing educational opportunities to children and young adults in rural Kenya.
mid-mountains. For instance, located in Hazelbrook, Selwood House Veterinary Hospital appears to be one of the veterinary practices to have weathered well the recent challenges in the veterinary sector. Although a relatively young practice, Selwood has grown rapidly to become a large team of six veterinarians and 14 veterinary nurses. In order to help clients find suita-
ble bookings, clinics like Selwood House have also introduced online booking systems, to create greater flexibility for clients to book times that best suit them. Some clinics have also adopted teleconsulting to help clients access veterinary advice out of hours, whilst other clinics or sole practitioners are offering a dedicated home visit service, particularly for pet owners
who cannot transport their pets to a practice. Meanwhile, the number of practices offering after hours emergency services continues to decline. Pending more widespread improvements in the availability of vet services, it is advisable to book ahead to ensure appointment availability, and where possible to try to identify any emerging health issues before they become an emergency.
Selwood House Veterinary Hospital
Selwood House Veterinary Hospital is a fully equipped veterinary hospital in the mid- mountains, serving clients and their pets from the Blue Mountains and Penrith area. We welcome new clients and are pleased to now offer online b ookings.
Dr Lawrence Baker, our Principal Veterinarian, opened the practice 10 years ago, and feels privileged to have overseen its g rowth into an outstanding team of 6 vets and 14 nurses. Dr Mark Frost joined the hospital around 6 years ago and has a very keen knowledge of vet dentistry. Dr Lynn Mathison, an Animal Behaviour Vet, previously from Coreen Avenue Vets, joined the team almost 4 years ago and is continuing to receive referrals of patients with challeng ing b ehavioural disorders. Dr Lynn has also continued to foster her love of ferrets, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Dr Gemma Williams, with her extensive knowledge of internal medicine, pathology, and avian medicine, joined the team 3 years ago. Dr Madie Garnache joined Selwood 3 years ago and is an experienced surgeon with a keen interest in ophthalmology and orthopedic surgery. Dr Amy Sparks joined Selwood in 2 02 2, bring ing with her a strong interest and deep skills in ultrasonog raphy and diagnostic imag ing. Dr Amy also leads our Climate Care Prog ram, working closely with Vets for Climate Action.
The vets at Selwood House are closely supported by our team of experienced and dedicated nurses, underpinning Selwood’s focus on high levels of patient care and client service. Nurses Lesley, Brooke, Kate, Miche, Merin and Bec, are pleased to b e joined recently by Lisa and Tanya, and to welcome back Honor and Tonya. Together with our trainee nurses, Vanessa and Phoeb e, our close-knit team make owners and patients feel part of the Selwood family. Our H R Manager Alana continues to work with our team (from New Zealand!). Finally, nurse Kate offers professional advice on leading pet healthcare products tailored to your pets, at Selwood’s sister store, The Pet Health Hub in Lawson.
Three key questions to improve the marketing strategy for your business BUSINESS
EWITH HANNAH STACK
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011
ffective marketing isn’t just about having the right tools – it’s about listening to your customers and refining your approach based on their feedback. By asking a few key questions, you can unlock powerful insights to sharpen your marketing strategy and deliver what your customers truly value.
Here are three essential questions to ask:
1. How did you hear about us?
Understanding how customers first discover your business is crucial for knowing which channels are driving the most value. Did they hear about you through word-ofmouth, a Google search or social media? With this insight, you can allocate resources to the most effective platforms and optimise campaigns.
Pro tip: Include this question in online inquiry forms or ask customers during their first interaction – whether over the phone or in person.
2. What do you like most about our service?
This question taps into the aspects of your business that resonate most with your customers. The answers will help you identify your strengths and refine your advertising message to reflect what customers appreciate the most.
How to collect this feedback: Use follow-up surveys, gather reviews online, or
make personal phone calls to clients. These insights can shape your messaging, ensuring it speaks directly to your audience’s needs and preferences.
3. What’s one thing we could improve?
Constructive feedback is invaluable – it gives you the opportunity to address weaknesses and strengthen your competitive edge. When you know your customers’ pain points, you can fix them before they become major issues, building long-term loyalty in the process.
Collection tip: Ask this question through surveys, feedback forms, or during face-toface interactions. Being open to suggestions shows your commitment to improvement, encouraging stronger customer relationships.
Take action on feedback
Asking the right questions is only half the battle – the real impact comes from acting on the answers. Use these insights to guide your marketing efforts, focusing on what works, refining messaging, and addressing areas that need improvement. A customer-focused marketing strategy is a surefire way to align your business with customer expectations and drive long-term success. Make these questions a habit, and watch your marketing efforts become more effective, targeted and responsive to your audience’s needs.
Penrith Regional Galler y Woolworths Lennox Village
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)
Emu Height s
Super Save Compounding Chemis t
Erskine Park
Ashcroft’s Iga
Erskine Park Ctc
G lenmore Park
Coles
Mags News
McDonald's
Medi Advice Pharmacy
Woolworths
J amisontown
Abcoe
Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym
B att Street Take Away
Grey Gums Hotel
Har vey Norman
New On York Takeaway
Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen
(Penrith Homemaker)
Patt y’s Place
S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)
S hell Ser vice Station
The Coffee Club Nepean River
Three Sugars C afé
We stern Weekender
York Takeaway
Zoo Fitness
7/ 11 Jamisontow n
Jordan Springs
Brooks Tavern
Jordan Springs Newsagency
Woolworths
Kemps Creek
C altex Ser vice Station
Kemps Creek Bowling Club
Kingswood
B arista Bar Coff ee Shop
(Nepean Private Hospital)
Countr y Brewer
Hallani’s
Kingswood Hotel
Kingswood Newsagency
Kingswood Smash Repairs
Kingswood Sports Club
Penrith Gaels Club
Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital
7/ 11 Kingswood
Leonay
Emu Sports Club
Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)
Llandilo
IGA
Londonderr y
Londonderr y Liquor Store
S hell X Roads
Luddenham
Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham
Minchinbur y McDonald's
Minchinbur y Fruit Market
Mulgoa
Glenmore Heritage Golf Club
Mulgoa Newsagency
Mulgoa Pharmacy
The Bunker
Nor th St Mar ys
Boronia House (Retirement Community)
MFC Food Stores
Orchard Hills
Flower Power
Oxley Park
Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy
Penrith
Aldi
Astina
Atmosphere Gym
Au stralian Arms
Brisket Boys
Ca fé Fre d
C altex Coreen Avenue
Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)
Coles ( We stfield Penrith)
Crescent Mini Mar t
High Street Pies
Hoyt s Westfield
Joan Sutherland Arts Centre
Liquor Stax Pe achtree
McDonald's High Street
McDonald's Panthers Le agues
McDonald's Pe achtree
Mercure Hotel
Museum Of Fire
Nepean Aquatic Centre
Nepean Motor Group C afé
Nepean Rowing Club
Nepean Village Coffee Club
Nepean Village Newsagency
Nextra Westfield
O ffice of Karen McKeown MP
One Point Health
Panthers Le agues Club
Pe achtree Hotel
Penrith Bowling Club
Penrith CBD Corporation
Penrith City Council
Penrith City Librar y
Penrith Golf Club
Penrith Hotel
Penrith Paceway
Penrith RSL
Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre
Pioneer Tavern
RE/MAX
Sittano s Restaurant
Tattersalls Hotel
The Chicken Run
The Heritage Terrace C afé
The Log C abin
We stfield
World Gym
7/ 11 Henr y Street
Regentville
7/ 11 Regentville
Ropes Crossing
Coles
Ropes Crossing Newsagency
Silverdale
Mobil Ser vice Station
The Chemist Shop
S outh Penrith
Budget Ser vice Station
Fish Fish
Friendly Grocer
Grose’s Pharmacy
Southlands Newsagency
Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)
Lemongrove Community Health Centre
South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre
Woolworths
St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel
Foodworks
St Clair Librar y
St Clair Shopping Centre
7/ 11 St Clair
St Mar ys Andrew ’s Corner Store
Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy
C assand ra’s On Queen
Cr ystal C afé
Guido s Hair C are
Jayam Supermarket
Queen St Newsagency
St Mar ys Band Club
St Mar ys Fish Market
St Mar ys Le agues Club
St Mar ys Librar
McDonald's St Mar ys South Monfar ville Corner Store
GURUS BACK IN TOWN
pretty well with that!”
Today, Hoodoo Gurus are one of Australia’s biggest musical exports, boasting a string of hit albums over the ‘80s and ‘90s.
But, reflecting on the release of the band’s first album, ‘Stoneage Romeos’, singer Dave Faulkner said he never saw it coming.
“We made [the album] in bits and pieces. We’d do a single and a couple of extra songs, then go out on tour and promote the new single, then come back in and do another single, so it took nearly a year to make the whole thing,” he said.
“It wasn’t like we ever had a sense of it as a final work, it just gradually assembled itself without us knowing. We’d just get the songs we liked that worked well live and just chuck them down as best we can, and I think we did
That was 40 years ago, and now, Hoodoo Gurus are revisiting the album with a new tour, Hoodoo Gurus: Back to the Stone-Age.
As part of the tour, Faulkner said they’ll be playing ‘Stoneage Romeos’ in its entirety on every stop, finally giving the songs which sometimes get overshadowed a chance to be in the spotlight.
“The real joy of doing this is that there are certain songs on there that are crowd favourites, and people will often request them, but you can’t always squeeze them into a set when you’ve got other songs that people really want to hear that are more ‘iconic’ for the band,” he said.
“It’s been great to be able to get some of these slightly less well travelled songs out there.”
But, after test driving the setlist in the US last month, Faulkner said there’s a few songs in particular that he’s most excited to be playing – whether audiences like it or not.
“There’s a song called ‘In The Echo Chamber’ that’s our favourite song to play, because it’s probably the least favourite song of anyone else’s on the record! It’s a little bit ugly, a little bit grotesque and not pleasant, and we like that. It lets us have our own private fun –there’s a certain kind of perverse joy in playing a song that kind of rubs people the wrong way,” he laughed.
This month, Hoodoo Gurus are excited to be bringing the tour down under, in their first Australian tour since 2022.
“Australia’s our home, and this is where our biggest audiences are, and our most passionate audiences, so we just love playing here,” he said.
“As much fun as it was seeing the world and going to exotic places, it’s really great to be here!”
Faulkner said that over the years, western Sydney has been one of his favourite places to play, counting down the days until they hit the
Sydney Coliseum stage on November 29.
“When we started, we were kind of an ‘inner city’ band – that’s how people described that sort of scene at the time, what became alternative, independent music. In those days [that’s where] people were living in squats and sharing houses and living quite cheaply, and that encouraged a lot of different creative people to mix together and inspire each other, and music and rock ‘n’ roll were part of that,” he said.
“When the Gurus started, our very first intention was not to be stuck in that scene and just to play to the converters, we wanted to spread our music everywhere!”
Though ‘Stoneage Romeos’ is the main focus of the tour, Faulkner said fans won’t be missing all of their favourite hits, promising their longest show ever, and an unmissable night.
Hoodoo Gurus will be on at Sydney Coliseum on Friday, November 29 at 7.30pm. Tickets start at $79. For more information or to book, visit www.sydneycoliseum.com.au.
CASSIDY PEARCE
29 OCTOBER - 4 NOVEMBER
WesternSydney GigGuid e
IF YOU HAVE A GIG OR EVENT YOU Would LIKE TO PROMOTE PLEASE CONTACT AMANDA at AMANDA.COSKERIE@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU
Halloween karaoke ft blaiN
From 8pm
Prizes to be won Red Cow
Pasifika Film Fest
7pm - 9pm
Riverside Theatre
Albion Fridays
From 5pm
Albion HOtel thu 31
Goodness Brunch for Breast Cancer
Donations accepted
Goodness Allied Health
tolly diwali
From 8pm
Tickets $25
Fright NIght
5pm -7pm: Family
8pm - 10pm: 18+
Tickets from $35
Unreal Mini Golf
Halloween with Havana Brown
From 9pm Tickets from $22
From 8pm
Tickets from $30 am/pm hallowemo night
Tattersalls Hotels
Club brasilia bar & grill sunday thursday
Halloween Party
thu 31 fri 1
Bella Vista Hotel sat 2
The Angels
From 8pm
Tickets from $46
6pm - 3am Tickets from $15 sat 2 sat 2 sat 2
River Canyon bar
Blue Cattle Dog HOtel fri 1 sat 2
THINGS TO DO
Get back to Cables as weather warms up
Combining fun, exercise and excitement, test the waters at Cables Wake Park in the lead-up to summer! The park features two main cable lakes where thrill-seekers can water-ski, kneeboard and wakeboard, as well as an Aqua Park offering fun in the sun with inflatable slides and obstacles. Find out more at www.cableswakepark.com.au.
BARGAIN BUYS
Op Shop at Kingswood Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.
BUSINESS
Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce
For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au.
Penrith CBD Corporation
Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.
Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.
Nepean Riverlands Probus Club
Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club
The Monster Bash at Sports Centre
Penrith’s own Roller Derby League will slide on their spooky skates for the Monster Bash this Sunday. In Game One, Frankenstein’s Blockers will verse Deadset Mummies, and in Game Two, Dracula’s Pride will go head-to-head with The Scare-Wolves. The day will also include a raffle and Halloween costumes. It’s at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre.
from 10am. New members are always welcome.
Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club
Meets on the last Monday of the month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am.
South Creek Probus Club
Meets on third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club, Great Western Highway at 10.30am. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.
Penrith Lions Club
Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.
Nepean Valley RSL Day Club
Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542.
Penrith Hospital Auxiliary
Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.
Red Cross Penrith
Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and
A scary night out at Mamre Homestead
Prepare for a scare this Saturday night, November 2, if you’re brave enough to hunt ghosts at Mamre Homestead. Experts from Ghost Territory Tours will share the homestead’s dark history and paranormal phenomena. After that, attendees will be armed with tools and equipment to connect with the afterlife. Tickets cost $65. Visit www.stickytickets.com.au.
volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.
Penrith NASHOS
Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL. Call 0448 983 399 for details.
Nepean Evening VIEW Club
Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Nepean Food Services
Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au.
JP Service
Available weekdays at Western Weekender, 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown.
MUSEUMS
Penrith Museum of Printing
Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information.
Nepean Naval Museum
Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.
Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.
Penrith Carer Support Group
First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.
Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.
Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.
Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.
Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.
TUES 05 NOV
MELBOURNE CUP MEAT RAFFLE x10 MEAT TRAYS UP FOR GRABS! Tickets on sale from 2pm, Drawn at 3.30pm $4 SCHOONERS FROM 1PM – 3PM from a selected range celebrations pm M
At the movies...
‘Lee’ follows the true story of one of the greatest war photographers of all time, as she documents history’s darkest chapter.
Even if most people are unfamiliar with American war correspondent Lee Miller herself, many would have seen the photos she’s taken before.
Haunting and emotional, her images of concentration camps and their countless victims at the culmination of World War II would reveal the horrors of the Holocaust to the whole world.
Honestly, it’s a surprise a film wasn’t made about her sooner. A former model, the film opens in 1938 with Lee (Kate Winslet) lounging with her friends by the beachside. It’s here that she ends up meeting her future husband Roland Penrose (Alexander Skarsgård) for the first time.
But as the threat of war looms, everyone’s lives forever change, including Lee.
In London, she gets a job documenting life on the home front for British Vogue, but it’s not enough – she needs to go to the frontline.
It’s a bold move at a time where female photographers faced strict restrictions due to their gender. Lee has to use every inch of her ferocious tenacity and determination to get her way, which, of course, she does.
From there the film really picks up speed as Lee travels to photograph the liberation of Paris, and later, Germany
Every single person in the cast does a superb job in bringing the story to life.
Of course, Winslet delivers another powerhouse performance. She’s tough, angry, passionate and driven by a need to shine a light on injustice. There’s no other actress
who could play Lee.
Andy Samberg was a surprise. Portraying photographer Davy Scherman, who becomes good friends with Lee and joins her to photograph the horrors of concentration camps in Germany, the role was a far cry from Samberg’s usual comedic roles.
He handles it with ease, delivering one of the most heart-tugging moments of the
The nature of the film means it can be
hard watch at times, but even then, it’s impossible to look away.
‘Lee’ is a timely reminder of the importance of photojournalism when it comes to documenting war crimes and shining a light on the truth. A must-watch.
See these movies at... PENRITH
– Ellie Busby
COUNTRY CORNER
Lawrence drops cheeky new track
Top Aussie country artist Amber Lawrence (pictured above) has dropped the cheeky new single ‘You Can Admit You Like Country Music’ this week.
“‘You Can Admit You Like Country Music’ is a hugely fun, energetic, rollicking country song, about you guessed it, the world’s current obsession with country music,” Lawrence said.
“After being invited to talk on TV’s ‘The Project’ about the rise of country music, I sat down and wrote this latest single. It’s a celebration and an acknowledgement of the power of country music; a tongue in cheek boot scooting party tune.”
The song is out now on all streaming services.
Green’s new album out now
US country star Riley Green elevates his already skyrocketing career with the release of his highly anticipated third studio album, ‘Don’t Mind If I Do’ (pictured top right).
This album marks a thrilling continuation of Green’s hot streak, solidifying his status as one of the genre’s most exciting stars, garnering millions of streams and a dedicated following.
The 18-track project, which arrived via Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment, features Green’s signature sound, a pitch perfect balance between heartfelt and humorous lyrics and a blend of relatable storytelling with infectious melodies.
“It feels fitting that this
album is out on my birthday because this project feels very true to who I am, where I come from and what I’ve learned along the way,” shared Green.
“I learned to play guitar to my granddaddy’s favourite country songs from back in the day and this new album is a throwback to the era when I first became a fan.”
‘Don’t Mind If I Do’ delivers more of the signature Riley Green sound that fans can’t get enough of. Dann Huff produced the project along with Executive Producers Scott Borchetta and Jimmy Harnen and continues down the path set forth with ‘Ain’t My Last Rodeo’, leaning even further into pulling inspiration from his small-town life in rural Alabama.
Ê Channel Nine held their Upfronts last week, with several new and returning shows on the menu for 2025. Nine has confirmed that former Channel Seven presenter Sam Armytage will host a local version of popular dating series ‘The Golden Bachelor’, while actor Rodger Corser will front a new game show, filmed in The Netherlands, called ‘The Floor’. Also coming next year is ‘Chateau DIY Australia’, which will see Aussies renovate their own French chateau. In the drama department, two shows from New Zealand will be coming to Nine including Rachel Griffiths drama ‘Madam’ and Rebecca Gibney drama ‘A Remarkable Place to Die’.
Ê Returning to Channel Nine next year are new seasons of ‘Married at First Sight’, ‘The Block’, ‘LEGO Masters’, ‘Travel Guides’, ‘The Hundred with Andy Lee’, ‘Big Miracles’, ‘Tipping Point’, ‘Taronga: Who’s Who in the Zoo?’, ‘Emergency’, ‘Space Invaders’, ‘Paramedics’ and ‘Parental Guidance’. Not scheduled to come back are ‘The Summit’, ‘Under Investigation with Liz Hayes’, ‘Do You Want Live Forever?’ and ‘RPA’.
Crystal Fest
• MYSTERY TICKET GIFT VOUCHERS
Ê Good news for fans of ‘SAS Australia’, with reports the hit show will return in 2025. We’ll know for sure in the coming weeks when Seven hold their Upfronts, but star of the show Ant Middleton pretty much confirmed its return in recent media interviews.
Ê Casting is underway for the next season of ‘The 1% Club’, hosted by comedian Jim Jefferies. If you think you have what it takes to go far or just want to be on TV, you can apply to be on the show by visiting go.mycastingnet.com/Apply/Show/OnePercentClubS4.
Ê Exciting news for daytime soap fans, with legendary US soap ‘General Hospital’ coming to 10Play from January 1, 2025. The longest-running American soap opera in production joins other US soaps on the platform including ‘The Young and the Restless’, ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’. Fans of ‘General Hospital’ will be in heaven as 10Play drop a backlog of episodes as well as add new episodes as they air in the US.
Ê New sci-fi drama series ‘Dune: Prophecy’ will premiere on Monday, November 18 on Binge and Foxtel. Created by author Frank Herbert and set 10,000 years before the ascension of Paul Atreides, ‘Dune: Prophecy’ follows two Harkonnen sisters as they combat forces that threaten the future of humankind and establish the fabled sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit.
Ê With the festive season fast approaching, you’ll soon start seeing a whole bunch of new Christmas TV shows and movies. One to look out for is ‘Nugget Is Dead: A Christmas Story’ on Stan. When her beloved family dog, Nugget, falls sick over Christmas, Steph Stool must abandon her very elegant holiday plans with her boyfriend’s family, and instead return to her small coastal hometown to confront the chaos of her own… less elegant family. In the week leading up to Christmas, each member of the Stool family must grapple with the mortality of the one thing that unifies them. It drops on Thursday, November 21.
UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS
• $5 ENTRY FEE, UNDER 18 FREE
• 10% OF ENTRY FEE GOES TO ANIMAL RESCUE
Crystal lovers of Penrith, WE ARE BACK!!!!
Come and join us again for two wonderful days filled with the most amazing Crystals, Jewellery, Crystal Carvings, specimens, minerals, opals, fossils, wellness products and sooooo much more!!!!
Crystals make beautiful gifts, and at the show you will find something amazing for everyone, you will see a assortment of pieces to cater for everyone’s tastes and budget and of course something for yourself!! • LUCKY DOOR PRIZES
The Music of James Bond & Bur t Bacharach Wed 13 November - Morning Tea 10am; Performance 11am
Love Local Makers Christmas Market Sunday 1 December, 8:30am to 1pm
A Swinging Christmas! Wed 11 December - Morning Tea 10am; Performance 11am
Radio Luxembourg Friday 7 Februar y, 8pm
Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live! Thurs 13 Februar y, 7:30pm
Man, I Feel Like a Woman Thursday 20 Februar y, 7:30pm
Running in the Shadows of Fleetwood Mac Sat 15 March, 8pm
The Roy Orbison Story Friday 21 March, 7:30pm
TV Guide: November 1 – 7
Your guide to the week’s television viewing
6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America (PG) 10:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 11:00 Fake Or Fortune? 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Nolly (M) 1:45 Plum (M) 2:55 A Bite To Eat With Alice 3:25 Love Your Garden 4:10 Grand Designs Revisited (PG) 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:35 Gardening Australia 8:35 Nolly (M) 9:25 Fisk (PG) 9:50 Question Everything 10:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Fight For Justice: Billy’s Story” (AKA ‘The Right Mom’) (M v) (’21) Stars: Anna Schafer 2:00 Catch Phrase (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Growing Home With Jamie Durie (PG) 9:30 The Disappearance Of Grace Millane (M) 11:30 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 1:05 Travel Oz (PG) 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “For The Love Of Chocolate” (PG) (’21) Stars: Rhiannon Fish 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III (PG) 8:40 Movie: “London Has Fallen” (M l,v) (’16) Stars: Alon Abutbul 10:40 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival 10:00 Judge Judy (PG) 10:30 Sort Your Life Out (PG) 11:45 Entertainment Tonight (PG)
1:00 Disasters At Sea (PG) 3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Cricket: WBBL: Adelaide v Sydney Thunder *Live* 7:00 Cricket: WBBL: Sydney Sixers v Melbourne Stars *Live* 10:30 Movie: “Skyscraper” (M l,v) (’18) Stars: Dwayne Johnson
8:00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? (PG) 8:30 MythBusters
November
2
Saturday
2:00 Escape To The Country 3:00 I Escaped To The Country 4:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 6:00 Dog Patrol 6:30 The Highland Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country
7:00
7:35
12:00 Buffy The Vampire Slayer (M) 3:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 3:55 First Dates UK (M s) 4:55 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 6:20 Movie: “Ron’s Gone Wrong” (PG) (’21) Stars: Jack Dylan Grazer 8:30 Movie: “Easy A” (M s) (’10)
Evening News 4:05 Teenage Boss Next Level (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Merlin (PG) 6:10 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 My Family (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Wag The Dog” (M l) (’97) Stars: Dustin Hoffman 10:05 ER (PG)
Rosehill/
5:00 Seven News At Five 5:30
Farm
4:05 The Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:30 Black As (PG) 6:40 Wild Rockies (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Flight Of The Navigator” (G) (’86) Stars: Joey Cramer
5:30 Luke Nguyen’s India 6:00 River Cottage Australia 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Jamie’s Food Escapes 8:30 Donal’s Feasts, Fasts And Festivals 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK 10:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw
6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 Healthy Homes 8:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 Dr Phil (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 FBI (M) 11:15 48 Hours (M) 2:00 Becker (PG) 2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 Rules Of Engagement (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big
4:00 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:30 PBS News Hour 5:30 Gone Fishing With Mortimer & Whitehouse (PG) 6:05 A The Matchmakers (PG) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)
2:00 La Brea (M) 3:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 3:30 The Nanny (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Bruce Almighty” (M l,s) (’03) Stars: Jim Carrey 1:50 Keeping Up Appearances (PG) 3:00 Antiques Roadshow 3:30 Movie: “Elizabeth
Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Great Outdoors 7:30 Movie: “Independence Day” (PG) (’96) Stars: Will Smith 10:25 Movie: “The 6th Day” (M) (’00) Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger 12:55 Taken (M) 2:00 Home Shopping 4:00 Larry The Wonderpup 5:00 My Greek Odyssey 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday 11:30 Horse Racing: Derby Day *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “No Time To Die” (M) (’21) Stars: Daniel Craig 9:30 Movie: “Sully: Miracle On The Hudson” (M l) (’16) Stars: Tom Hanks 11:30 Movie: “No Escape” (MA15+) (’15) Stars: Owen Wilson 1:20 The Garden Gurus 1:50 Talking Honey (PG) 2:00 Religious Programs 10:00 The Weekly Kick Off 10:30 Shark Tank (PG)
1:30 On Tour With Allan Border (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under 3:00 AFL Women’s: Week 10: Sydney v West Coast *Live* 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL Women’s: Week 10: Carlton v Essendon *Live* 12:30 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 2:00 Wife Swap Australia (PG) 3:30 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 5:00 Movie: “City Slickers II” (PG) (’94) Stars: Jack Palance 7:30 Movie: “Big Daddy” (PG) (’99) Stars: Adam Sandler
3:45 Great Lakes Wild (PG) 4:15 Movie: “Poly Styrene: I Am A Cliché” (PG) (’21) Stars: Celeste Bell 6:00 NITV News Update 6:10 Pacific Island Food Revolution (PG) 7:00 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M I) 8:30 Movie: “Housebound” (M) (’14)
Fresh Off The Boat (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Merlin (PG) 6:10 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 QI (PG) 5:30 Lorraine’s Fast, Fresh And Easy Food 6:00 David Rocco’s Italia 6:30 Beyond River Cottage 8:00 Alex Polizzi Secret Italy 9:00 Rick Stein’s India 10:10 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 11:05 River Cottage Australia
4:30 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Round 3: Central Coast Mariners v Perth Glory *Live* 7:35 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Round 3: Western Sydney Wanderers v Adelaide United *Live* 10:00 NCIS (PG) 11:50 Bull (M v) 2:00 Frasier (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Frasier (PG) 5:00 Shark Tank (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 South Park (M) 12:30 Home Shopping 2:00 Just For Laughs Montreal (MA15+) 5:00 Home Shopping 3:00 Maine Cabin Masters 4:00 Country House Hunters Australia 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00
4:05 BBC News At Ten 4:35 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 5:05 PBS News Hour 6:05 The Future With Hannah Fry (PG) 6:35 The Secret Genius Of Modern Life (PG) 7:35 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 Great Australian Concerts 4:00 Movie: “Fletch Lives” (PG) (’89) 6:00 My Way 6:15 Horse Racing: Melbourne Cup Barrier Draw *Live* 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Shazam!” (M) (’19) Stars: Zachary Levi 10:15 Movie: “Vampires Suck” (M s,v) (’10) Stars: Matt Lanter
1:00 Movie: “Beach Party” (PG) (’63) Stars: Robert Cummings 3:00 Rugby League: Teams TBA *Live* 5:30 Rugby League: Kiwis v Tonga *Live* 8:00 Movie: “A Fistful Of Dynamite” (AKA ‘Duck You Sucker’) (PG) (’71) Stars: Rod Steiger
6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:40 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 3:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:00 Restoration Australia 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Grand Designs Australia 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 Fisk (PG) 8:30 Plum (M) 9:25 I Was Actually There 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Better Homes And Gardens 1:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 1:30 Cricket: WBBL: Melbourne Renegades v Adelaide *Live* 5:00 Seven News At Five 5:30 Sydney Weekender (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 7News Spotlight: US Election Special 8:00 Ego - The Michael Gudinski Story (M) 10:25 Crime Investigation Australia - Most Infamous (M v) 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 Cross Court 11:30 Fishing Australia 12:00 Drive TV 12:30 The Pet Rescuers (PG) 1:00 Helloworld 1:30 Rugby League: Pacific Championships: PNG Orchids v Kiwi Ferns *Live* 3:45
Tom Cruise
12:20 Behave Yourself (PG) 1:30 Home And Away 3:20 TBA 5:30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M s,v) 10:30 Law & Order (M s,v) 4:00 Nganampa Anwernekenhe 4:35 Ray Charles At Salle Pleyel 6:10 NITV News Update 6:25 Nature’s Great Migration (PG) 7:30 First Australians (PG) 8:30 Movie: “After The Apology” (M l) (’17) Director: Larissa Behrendt
Pooches At Play (PG) 12:30 The Yes Experiment (PG) 1:00 Everyday Gourmet 1:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 2:00 Farm To Fork 2:30 Basketball: NBL: Round 7: S.E Melbourne Phoenix v Perth Wildcats *Live* 4:30 Luxury
12:00 Escape With ET 12:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 2:30 Camper Deals 3:00 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 4:00 I Fish 4:30 NBL: Round 7: Sydney Kings v Tasmania JackJumpers *Live* 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 9:30 Becker (PG) 10:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00
France 24 English News 4:30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 4:55 Scandinavian Star (PG) (In Various) 6:05 Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes In 12 Hours 6:40 Mysteries From Above (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering (M)
2:00 Basketball: WNBL: Sydney Flames v UC Capitals *Live* 4:00 Movie: “Yours, Mine And Ours” (PG) (’05) 5:45 Movie: “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” (G) (’12) Stars: Zac Efron 7:30 Movie: “Godzilla: King Of The Monsters” (M l,v) (’19) 1:00 Movie: “How To Stuff A Wild Bikini” (G) (’65) Stars: Annette Funicello 3:00 Movie: “It’s A Mad Mad Mad Mad World” (PG) (’63) Stars: Milton Berle 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Fugitive” (PG) (’93) Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence
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5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:05 Kangaroo Beach 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 Little Lunch 7:50 Operation Ouch!
4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7:30 8:00 ABC News Tonight
4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 Merlin (PG) 6:15 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 My Family (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 6:00
(M) 8:40 Matlock (M) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)
5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:05 Kangaroo Beach 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 Little Lunch 7:50 Operation Ouch! 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7:30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 4:05 Would I Lie To You?
FBI (M)
5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:05 Kangaroo Beach 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 Little Lunch 7:50 Operation Ouch! 10:00 USA Votes: Election Day *Live* : 7:00 ABC News: USA Votes: One Hour Special 8:00 Planet America 9:00 ABC News: USA Votes Special 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 Merlin (PG) 6:15 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 My Family (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG)
5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 3:00 The
Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Windy City Rehab 5:00 Chateau
River Cottage Australia 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Marcus Wareing: Simply Provence 8:00 Nadiya’s Fast Flavours 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Movie: “Heartbreak Ridge” (M) (’86) Stars: Clint Eastwood 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 5:30
Matthew Sandstrom and Chris Rudduck, Directors of AlphaBuild.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
BRINGING LUXURY BUILDS TO WESTERN SYDNEY
Alocal luxury property developer duo have put Penrith back in their sights as they look to build prestige housing in the area.
Matthew Sandstrom and Chris Rudduck grew up in the local area and then both went on to work for large contractors where they were building projects up to $50 million in value.
Now, they are both Directors of their company AlphaBuild and want to bring their luxury builds back to the community they came from.
“We want to raise the bar of luxury living… we think the area deserves it,” Sandstrom said.
“Our mission is to build the most refined luxury residences in
western Sydney.”
Their first project back on home soil is called ‘Nura’, it is set to be a multi-storey home nestled away in the leafy suburb of Leonay.
“We have a couple of our own projects that we are doing on two sites in Leonay,” Rudduck said.
“We started one, it’s a three-storey luxury house. We have the site next door to that which is a luxury duplex which we will start on the back of this one as soon as it’s finished.
“It’s good to have some stuff closer to home and try bringing what we are doing in the eastern suburbs back here.”
Previous to ‘Nura’, the duo has worked on luxury developments closer to Sydney.
“We completed a project in Maroubra that was about a $7 million build value, and they just offloaded one apartment for $6 million,” Sandstrom said.
“We just finished one in Coogee and I think that is worth about $20 million build value.
“So nicer, high-end, luxury builds but now we are coming out here and we want to bring this back to our hometown now and provide a premium product to the Penrith area.”
Both Sandstrom and Rudduck describe AlphaBuild as the company willing to take on projects that others put in the ‘too hard’ basket.
“The site that we just bought over there sat on the market for
ages, I think it went through two or three designs and everyone was like ‘Nah, I don’t want to build that’ because it had an eight-metre cut straight into the rock,” Sandstrom said.
“The job that we just came off the back of in Coogee was a 13-metre cut and Maroubra was a 10-metre cut.”
Sandstrom said it’s about time Penrith had builders willing to go to the next level.
“We want to challenge the status quo for building intricate designs and unique architectural projects in the Penrith area,” he said.
To find out more about the work AlphaBuild is doing, visit their website at www.alphabuild.com. au.
The render of the Nura build in Leonay.
What is so great about this property? The proximity to Penrith High School only 500m and 1.3km to Nepean Hospital. Who does this property suit? Family looking to get proximity to Penrith High School, Hospital staff, first home buyer or savvy investor. Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Penrith is a
vibrant and growing community, with the facilities of a large city while still offering suburban charm. Penrith has so many fun activities for families, upcoming indoor snow field, water ski park, indoor flying centre, escape rooms, bowling, golf, arcade games, local walking tracks, white water rapid training park, playgrounds and so much more.
Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0
FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME
WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE
Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me
DIGITAL DETOX: TIME TO RECLAIM
Every year during the holiday period, I take the time to reduce my usage of digital devices. In effect, I have a digital detox. I limit my social media use and put an out-of-office reply to my emails. I watch less TV and really embrace summer and all the activities it offers. Christmas is the one time of year when almost everyone, including businesses, closes for two weeks. It’s the one time of year I do not have to worry about anything related to my business and be able to prioritise my family.
A digital detox offers numerous benefits, including:
• Improved mental health: Reducing screen time can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and boost overall mood.
• Enhanced relationships: By disconnecting from technology, you can spend more time with family and friends, strengthening your bonds and creating lasting memories. Perhaps even have a device-free date night with your partner.
• Greater mindfulness: A digital detox encourages mindfulness, allowing you to focus on the present moment.
• Reclaiming time: Remember when we used to read paperbacks or chat with friends without screens? Personally, I
use some of this time to read a couple of novels
• Sleep and serotonin: Screen blue light messes with our sleep patterns. A detox encourages better sleep hygiene, improving mood and overall well-being.
Some Strategies for a successful digital detox:
• Designate a tech-free space: Choose a specific area in your home where you can relax and unwind without distractions.
• Establish tech-free times: Set aside specific periods during the day, such
as mealtimes or evenings, when you’ll completely unplug.
• Use apps mindfully: If you can’t eliminate technology, use apps mindfully. For example, turn off non-essential notifications and unfollow accounts that fill up your social media.
• Set screen time limits: Use your device’s built-in features to limit your daily screen time.
• Rediscover old passions: Pick a hobby you’ve neglected, such as reading, painting, or gardening, or explore brand new hobbies.
• Spend time outdoors: Take walks in nature, hike, or sit in your backyard and enjoy the fresh air. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
• Inform: Tell your family and friends about your digital detox plans.
• Set boundaries: Politely decline social invitations that involve excessive screen time.
Remember, a successful digital detox is about balance and moderation. It’s not about eliminating technology from your life but rather about using it mindfully and intentionally. By taking steps to disconnect, you can experience a more fulfilling and meaningful holiday season.
WHY BATHTIME SAFETY NEEDS TO BE A PRIORITY
This week I want to highlight bathtime safety. With many of us quite time poor, who can blame busy parents from trying to fit as much as possible into a day?
Thinking “I’ll just go and grab a towel / hang the washing quickly / answer the door or phone/ go to the toilet / attend to another child / do the dishes” while their child is having a bath. Thinking “I will only be gone for a minute”. Sadly, this is plenty enough time for tragedy to occur.
In Australia, on average, five children under the age of five drown and 47 are hospitalised due to bathtub drowning or near drowning incidents each year.
One in four hospitalisations results in permanent injury such as brain damage. The majority of bathtub drowning deaths occur when there is an interruption to the bathing routine such as the doorbell or phone ringing while a parent is bathing a child. Most of the children who drowned in a bathtub in Australia were
already in the bathtub when they drowned and were less than two-years-old. 100 per cent of these deaths are due to a lapse in adult supervision. If you must leave the bathroom, please take your child with you.
No one is immune to the dangers of water. I myself once called 000 after a bath time incident. I was right there. I hadn’t even left the bathroom, but I was looking at my other child in the bath and
nearly missed seeing my toddler put a container of bath gel mixed with water to his mouth and swig. (How this container got into the bath for my one-year-old to get the lid off, add water and make a soapy soup I will never know).
The shock of tasting the mixture caused my little boy to inhale sharply – causing an unknown amount of water and soap to enter his lungs. It happened so quickly but soon he became very distressed and wheezy and the ambulance was called. Luckily he was given the all clear and settled well, but I watched him closely all night for any signs of secondary drowning (which can occur when water has been taken into the lungs). Secondary drowning is extremely rare, but it is important to have been with your child the entire time they were in the bath to witness any water inhalation which may have occurred. Older children do not provide adequate supervision, as they may not understand when the younger child is in trouble. Bath
seats or bath aids provide support for your child while leaving your hands free to wash them but are no substitute for active adult supervision as they do not prevent children from climbing or falling out of the seat and drowning. Please also remember to drain the bath as soon as bath time is over to remove this water hazard from the home. This also goes for any bodies of water in and around the home such as eskys, wading pools, wheelbarrows, drinks tubs, large pet bowls and anywhere else where water sit in any amount.
‘Kids Alive Do The 5’ have some fantastic videos on their YouTube channel showing parents how to familiarise very young babies with water in the bathtub and shower before they begin formal swimming lessons. I highly recommend that you take a look at these videos if you have an infant, and that swimming lessons are attended from six months of age. Until next week, please stay SAFER!
The Experts
One Point Health
CUSTOMISED ORTHOTICS AND HOW THEY WORK
Customised orthotics are medical devices designed to support and improve foot function. Unlike over-thecounter insoles, customised orthotics are specifically tailored to the individual’s foot structure, gait, and particular needs. These devices can address a variety of foot problems such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, and other biomechanical issues.
The key benefit of customised orthotics lies in their customised nature. They are created after a thorough assessment of the patient’s foot structure, gait analysis, and sometimes 3D imaging of the feet. This ensures that the orthotic provides optimal support to the areas that need it most. By redistributing pressure evenly across the foot, customised orthotics can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by abnormal foot mechanics. They can correct imbalances, promote proper alignment, and reduce stress on the joints.
For individuals with chronic
conditions like diabetes or arthritis, customised orthotics play an essential role in foot care. Diabetic patients, for instance, often suffer from neuropathy or poor circulation, which makes them prone to foot ulcers and other complications. Custom orthotics can reduce pressure points that may lead to these issues, thus preventing wounds and infections. For arthritis
Experience the thrill of coming face to face with the
King of beasts!
patients, orthotics can help alleviate pain by cushioning the joints and stabilising foot movements, reducing wear and tear on inflamed areas. Athletes also benefit from customised orthotics as they help optimise performance by improving foot alignment and reducing the risk of injury. They provide enhanced shock absorption and support during high-im-
pact activities, minimising strain on muscles and joints.
Customised orthotics are a powerful tool in managing foot pain, correcting biomechanical issues, and preventing injury or further complications in patients with chronic conditions. Their personalised fit ensures maximum effectiveness, making them superior to generic insoles for those with specific needs.
Zambi Wildlife Retreat is an exclusive and unique Not for Profit Animal Sanctuary, set in beautifully landscaped grounds.
A tour of the retreat allows you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals and learn about their history and species. Zambi only allows limited visitors each week and you will need to book your spot on our website booking page here: www.zambi.org/bookings
The bookings are only available for a total of 7 guests and includes a tour of the retreat with an experienced guide where you will get to hand feed the macaw parrots and baboon monkeys. Complimentary hot and cold drinks and light snacks are included in the cost.
There is also the opportunity to add on animal encounters such as hand feeding the big cats and meeting the meerkats and little marmoset monkeys. This can be booked at the same time as your tour or added during your visit.
Entry is 9 years of age and older and a further age restriction of 12 years and older will apply to hand feeding the zambi.org
BLAKE COSSOR
IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce
Ready Freddie: The solution
Everyone knows that the correct order to get ready to go out is hair, makeup, then outfit.
But, what you wear in the interim is extremely important – it can’t be anything white, or anything too tight over your head, so as to not ruin all your hard work.
For Allie Goodbun and Georgia Smith, the solution to this came when they started dancing at the Moulin Rouge in Paris.
“When I started, I realised that it was a very common thing for a lot of the girls to be wearing these cozy, one-piece jumpers,” Goodbun said.
“I had seen them before, but it was definitely something I hadn’t seen in a decade, because it was something little kids were known to wear, more so in the ballet world.”
As it turns out, these jumpers
were being made by the mum of one of the dancers, who had unfortunately put down her sewing machine the year that Goodbun started. So, she went on a mission to make one of her own, and though she did manage to have one made, it wasn’t quite what she wanted.
“Having one that wasn’t quite functional – it was too short in the crotch, the elastic on the top wasn’t tight enough, the straps were too close together – it just made me want to redesign it
myself,” she said.
And so, they created their brand Ready Freddie, selling ‘freddies’ for everyone to enjoy.
Though the girls started with no business experience, Ready Freddie blew up almost immediately with the help of their social media accounts, with people all over the world now incorporating them into their getting ready routine.
“It’s become really big in sport – lots of swimmers wear it to get ready, and being from Canada, it’s now also lifted off in the figure skating world, which is really cool,” she said.
“Mums are also just wearing it around the house or to do errands!”
But, it’s been particularly popular in the dance community, given their careers as professional can-can dancers.
“They’ve landed backstage in almost every show in North
America,” she said.
Whilst Goodbun is Canadian, Smith is from right here in Australia, leading them to launch their latest collection at the Australian Dance Festival in September.
Moving forward, they’re keen to expand the business here, with new launches in the works set to run with the Aussie seasons.
“Once we hit that year mark in December, we’re going to transition into new fabrics,” Goodbun said.
“We’re hoping to really get into beach cover ups, move into a terry towel material, and that will land right in the middle of Australian summer.”
Having now given one of the freddies a test drive for myself, I can confirm that they’re the perfect outfit to get ready in. I can’t wait to see what they do next!
Experts
EXPLAINER: COMMON ZOONOTIC DISEASES
Our pets bring joy and comfort into our lives, and keeping them healthy is an essential part of keeping ourselves and our families safe. Zoonotic diseases are animal infections that can be passed to humans, often through close contact or exposure to contaminated surfaces. Although the risk of contracting a zoonotic infection is generally low, understanding these diseases and taking preventive steps can help keep everyone safe. Here are some common zoonotic diseases and how to protect yourself and your pet.
Worms
Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms are common in domestic pets like dogs and cats. These worms can be transmitted to people, typically through contaminated soil, water, or by direct contact with an infected animal. Symptoms in humans can include stomach pain, nausea, or skin irritation. Regular intestinal worming of pets, along with proper hygiene, significantly reduces the risk of these parasites spreading to humans.
Ringworm
Despite the name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm. This fungus affects the
skin of both animals and humans, causing red, itchy, circular patches. Ringworm can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected pet or even contaminated soil. Avoid handling animals with visible skin issues and always wash your hands after playing with pets, especially if they roam outdoors.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira bacteria, is spread through the urine of infected animals, including rats, cattle, and even marsupials. People can contract it by coming into contact with contaminated soil, water, or vegetation, and the bacteria can enter the body through cuts or mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, nose). Preventing leptospirosis includes avoiding exposure to contaminated water sources, using gloves when cleaning animal areas, and ensuring pets are vaccinated.
Sarcoptic Mange (Sarcoptes)
Sarcoptes, or “scabies,” is a parasitic mite that burrows into the skin, causing intense itching and irritation. This condition is highly contagious and can spread from pets to humans through skin contact. Limit handling of infected animals and seek prompt veterinary treatment to help stop the spread.
Cat Scratch Disease (CSD)
Caused by the Bartonella bacteria, Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) can lead to symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue in humans. CSD is transmitted through cat scratches or bites. To prevent it, avoid rough play with cats, trim their nails, and discourage them from biting or scratching. Wash any scratches or bites immediately.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that often infects cats, particularly those who hunt. People, especially those with weakened immune systems or pregnant women, can contract toxoplasmosis through contact with contaminated cat faeces. Always wash hands after cleaning litter boxes, and avoid handling cat litter if pregnant. Additionally, cook meat thoroughly to avoid foodborne transmission of the parasite.
Prevention and final tips
Good hygiene and regular pet care are crucial for preventing zoonotic diseases. Wash hands after handling pets, clean up pet waste properly, and keep pets’ vaccinations and worming up to date. With the right precautions, we can enjoy the many benefits of pet companionship while reducing risks.
With Mars charging into your relationship zone, it’s time to maintain your independence within the partnership … and encourage your sweetheart to do the same. The Sun/Saturn trine is terrific for professional and volunteer work plus long-term career planning. Success will be more satisfying if you are patient and disciplined, as you follow your particular path. Be inspired by actress (and birthday great) Sally Field, “Your journey is unique; don’t compare it to others.”
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
With voluptuous Venus (your patron planet) opposing Jupiter and squaring Neptune, you’re in the mood to overindulge, overspend and exaggerate. But too much eating, drinking, partying and/or spending (plus too little sleep) could extend your waistline, shorten your patience and slow you down by the end of the week. Unrealistic expectations could also lead to disappointment and confusion, so try to keep your feet firmly on the ground.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Get cracking Cats! It’s one of the most proactive and productive weeks of the year as Mars charges into Leo, and Saturn (planet of discipline and patience) links up with the Sun (your ruling planet). Relationships with relatives should improve, as long as you take a cautious and responsible approach. Catching up with delayed chores and overdue DIY projects in your Lion’s den is particularly favoured. When it comes to personal projects, strike while the iron is hot.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
On Monday and Tuesday, being resourceful and strategic pays off well at work. Creative ideas and careful research will also take you far. But don’t blow your budget with an indulgent Venus/Jupiter spending spree or commit yourself to an ambitious project that you don’t really have the time or enthusiasm for. Short-term big talk is no good if it doesn’t translate into long-term action. This week, patience and persistence are the keys to Scorpio success.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
It’s a wonderful week to dream big dreams and set ambitious goals for the future, as the Sun and Saturn activate your aspirations zone. But family members and work colleagues need to be handled with an extra big dollop of diplomacy and discretion. As birthday great Joni Mitchell observes, “There are things to confess that enrich the world, and things that need not be said.” On the weekend, avoid the temptation to be vague about the truth and tell tall tales.
GEMINI
22 TO JUNE 21
Have you been wondering (and worrying) about your professional options in the future? The ideal is to follow your dreams and make your day-to-day work a pleasure rather than a full-time chore. This week, the terrific Sun/Saturn trine encourages you to turn an abstract idea into a rock-solid reality via an inspiring vision and a strategic plan, especially at work. Proactive Mars also encourages you to get busy and be productive in your local community.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
When it comes to romance, do you have ridiculously high expectations? Have you placed your partner (or imagined partner) on a towering pedestal? With Neptune and Saturn both transiting through your relationship zone, stop expecting the perfect soul mate and instead, be prepared to love a real flesh and bones person … faults and all. As singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell sings, “I’ve looked at love from both sides now, from up and down…”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
With Mercury and Venus both transiting through your sign, you’ll be at your chatty and charming best! So it’s a wonderful week to create, collaborate and communicate, in your friendly Sagittarian way. As birthday great Albert Camus wrote, “Charm is the way of getting the answer yes, without having asked any clear question.” But avoid making impulsive financial decisions, especially on Monday. Take your time, do your research, and get a second opinion.
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
The week starts with an impatient, indulgent Venus/Jupiter opposition, and then Mars (your boss planet) charges into fellow fire sign, Leo. So – if you want things to run smoothly – diplomacy, discretion and restraint are required. Not qualities that come naturally to Rams! Wisdom for the week is from singer-songwriter Lorde (who turns 28 on Thursday), “Take care of your thoughts when you are alone and take care of your words when you are with people.”
The Sun and Saturn are activating your entertainment and travel sectors. So jump out of your Crab comfort zone and book some tickets to a concert or plan a much-needed holiday. When it comes to your personal and professional friendships, strive to be extra patient and keep the lines of communication wide open. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, singer-songwriter-musician Joni Mitchell, “I want to have fun, I want to shine like the Sun.”
This week pleasure-planet Venus (your patron planet) opposes Jupiter and squares Neptune, so you’re in the mood to indulge your senses via over-eating, drinking too much, partying too often and/or maxing out your credit card. Wearing decidedly rose-coloured glasses could also lead to confusion and disappointment (especially involving love, romance, neighbours, work colleagues, clients or customers). The Sun and Saturn encourage you to stay grounded.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Your best days are Monday and Tuesday, when Saturn (your power planet) trines the Sun. Concentration, goal setting and creative plans will take you far, especially involving communication, education, social media and group activities. Jupiter encourages you to enjoy the simple things in life – like a walk in the park or a kiss from a child. Be inspired by actress Sally Field (who turns 78), “Find joy in the little things; they add up to something magnificent.”
65.
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: CARTOONS
ASTRO BOY
BULLWINKLE
DAFFY DUCK
DONALD
ELMER FUDD
FELIX
FLINTSTONES
FOGHORN
JERRY
JETSONS
MICKEY MOUSE
MINNIE
PLUTO
ROAD RUNNER
ROCKY
SCOOBY-DOO
SCROOGE
TOM
WILE E COYOTE
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about ‘Bluey’ in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. What city does ‘Bluey’ take place in?
2. What is the name of Chili’s sister?
3. Where did Chili and Bandit first meet?
4. In the episode titled ‘Bus’, what animal is Bandit married to?
5. Who voices Bandit?
6. What breed of dog is Bluey’s best friend, Chloe?
7. What job does Calypso have in the show?
8. Which famous rugby league commentator makes an appearance in the episode called ‘The Decider’?
9. What is the 28-minute ‘Bluey’ episode called?
Giraffe
David McCormack
Dalmation
Teacher
Ray Warren 9. ‘The Sign’
Using the key, can you crack the phone code?
ALFAKODO
Letters A to Z have a number value, some are shown in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Fill in 1 to 6, in each row across and down, and in each rectangle.
Letters A to Z have a number value Some are shown in the right hand cells Create remaining values using clues in centre cells
H+Z
Z×Z
S+Y Q Z+J 7
L+G R O+J
H+X S T-E
X+A T Y×V
J+Q U D+P
D×V 26 V B-O 2
S+Z W E+V
J+C X Z+V L J×V 8 Y Q+X 12 M Z+Z Z K÷M
Find fifteen words beginning with ‘t’ from these jumbled letters.
Can you help Stork find his next baby delivery?
CODE BREAKER: Kermit the frog is left-handed.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: 1. There is no ‘writing’ in the square on the book cover. 2. There is no shadow on the table at the base of the globe. 3. The island near Africa is missing. 4. There is only one alien in the UFO. 5. There are only two stripes on the man’s tie.
HIDDEN WORDS: Toaster, toast, toe, tore, tease, taste, trot, tea, toes, test, to, terse, tart, tee and taro. Special word: Taro - A widely cultivated tropical Asian plant. MINI-SUDOKU:
PUZZLE PLAY:
“I am eggcited, it looks like my omelette will pan out very well.”
PHONE CODE:
ALFAKODO: PIC PUZZLE: Ans: 5
Being the best of the best
NATHAN TAYLOR
As GWM surges into a Top 10 position in Australia, it also continues to ramp up local investment, officially opening a new training facility designed to support dealers across Australia and New Zealand.
Located in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, the ‘GWM Training Centre’ is purpose-built, dedicated to providing cutting-edge training and development for dealership staff with the end-goal of delivering a first-class experience for all GWM customers.
The state-of-the-art GWM Training Centre is designed for hands-on, interactive training, ensuring that dealership staff receive practical and real-world experiences. This approach will allow them to remain abreast of the latest industry advancements and maintain the high standards of the GWM brand globally.
“As we continue to grow at a rapid rate, GWM recognise the need to invest in our dealers and ensure staff remain well-trained and
possess the relevant skills to ensure the long-term satisfaction of our customers. This is an investment into our future within the Australian and New Zealand markets,” said GWM Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Charles Zhao. Ben Madden, GWM’s National
Training Manager said: “This facility underscores GWM’s commitment to supporting the growth of our dealer network, while ensuring the highest level of service and expertise for our customers. The opening of the GWM Training Centre marks a pivotal step forward in our continued investment in dealer development and customer satisfaction. We understand the current stresses of staff shortage in the industry with skilled labour and we hope this new program allows GWM to support the industry holistically.”
GWM Training Centre features include:
– In-house Developed Courses: Tailored content, built locally to align to the local product range.
– Modern Training Rooms: Fully equipped with the latest technology to facilitate a dynamic and interactive learning environment.
– Training Workshop: Featuring a full range of industry-standard tools, equipment, and GWM vehicles for immersive, practical training.
Commencing in November, GWM will launch their High Voltage Technician (HVT) training, which will be rolled out across the dealer network in both Australia and New Zealand. This specialised course will play a crucial role in addressing the high demand for skilled automotive technicians in the ever-evolving industry.
Locally, GWM have an outlet at Nepean Motor Group, off Castlereagh Road, in Penrith. The GWM brand currently sells eight models across the Haval SUV, Tank 4x4, Ora EV and GWM Ute ranges via its network of 107 dealers nationally.
GWM’s new Training Centre in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.
A-League Women’s season begins this weekend Paige is ready to deliver
Meet Paige Hayward, Western Sydney Wanderers’ newest recruit.
The 29-year-old is so new in-fact that the club only announced her signing to the public at 4pm on Tuesday afternoon.
But while she remains somewhat of a mystery woman to the supporter base, Hayward is certainly working fast to get acquainted with her new coaches and teammates since arriving from the Central Coast Mariners where she spent one season and played 24 games.
Before arriving in Wanderland, Hayward enjoyed an eclectic career which has included stints in the United States, Austria and Adelaide.
But it’s at the Wanderers where this Sydneysider is feeling right at home.
“My parents are originally from Sydney and I grew up in Earlwood near Sydney Airport, so the Wanderers is a step closer to home,” Hayward told the Weekender in her first interview as a Wanderer.
“My manager was speaking to the coach (Robbie Hooker) and coming
here felt like the right move for me. I’m really enjoying it here so far. I get to play my style, which is nice, and the Wanderers have a very similar style to me, so it’s been easy to ease into it.”
Born in Sydney, Hayward spent time in the US College System, playing with the University of Texas, before transferring to Texas Southern University.
In three seasons with the Tigers, Hayward scored 25 goals, including bagging 13 goals and five assists in the 2016 campaign.
During that time, she also spent a period with the Houston Aces in the United Women’s Soccer League, while also being invited to be a part of NWSL team Houston Dash as a non-roster invitee.
Hayward moved to Austria to play for FFC Vorderland in the ÖFB-Frauenliga, scoring once in her five appearances for the club.
She then moved back to Australia to link up with Adelaide United, playing 26 matches for the South Australians across multiple positions.
While Hayward said she’s happy to be back home in Sydney, her time spent overseas was the making of
her and she considers it one of the best experiences of her life.
“It was unreal!” she admitted.
“Honestly, it took my game to the next level. At 17, I thought I was doing well but then I got over there, and it was like starting all over again.
“My coaches worked with me on things, they pushed my fitness levels and built on my good attributes. It opened my eyes to a whole other world that I’ve never seen before.”
This Sunday afternoon in Cessnock, the Wanderers will take on the Newcastle Jets in the opening round of the 2024/25 A-League Women’s season.
After missing out on the Finals by the skin of their teeth last season, Western Sydney are more determined than ever to have a year to remember.
“It’s always the goal to make Finals,” Hayward said.
“If we keep pushing at those little things then the end goal will become a lot easier.”
On Tuesday, coach Hooker said Hayward is someone who he thinks can have a great impact on the team defensively, but also on the younger members of the squad.
NATHAN TAYLOR
Paige Hayward is Western Sydney’s newest recruit.
Alamoti’s new deal
Penrith Panthers premiership winner Paul Alamoti will be remaining with the defending champions for many more years to come after signing a contract extension with the club.
Already contracted with the Panthers for next season, Alamoti has extended his deal until the end of the 2027 NRL season.
The 20-year-old outside back made his first grade debut with the Bulldogs in 2023 and has played 35 NRL games across two seasons.
Since joining the Panthers at the start of 2024, Alamoti scored eight tries and kicked 18 goals in 16 matches, playing a key role in the Panthers’ premiership success, including scoring the match-sealing try in the Grand Final win over the Storm.
Following an impressive season, Alamoti made his Test debut for Tonga last month against Australia at Suncorp Stadium.
The Milperra Colts junior
was selected in the Australian Schoolboys merit team in 2019 and represented NSW in the U19s State of Origin in 2022.
“We’re pleased to have Paul commit to Panthers until the end of 2027,” Panthers General Manager of Football, Shane Elford said.
“Paul is an exceptionally talented and respectful young man, both on and off the field.
“He has taken every opportu nity presented to him, and we are excited to see what the future holds for him with the Panthers.”
Following a week’s rest, Alam oti and his Tongan teammates will return to the paddock this weekend when they battle New Zealand in Auckland for a spot in the 2024 Pacific Championships Final.
Tonga and New Zealand will be searching for their first win of the tournament after both sides lost to the Kangaroos in recent weeks.
The Kiwis were the latest team to fall to the Aussies, losing a tough one in Christchurch last Sunday 22-10.
It was an unhappy afternoon for New Zealand captain James Fisher-Harris after his side were outclassed by the Kangaroos on home soil.
“Australia were too good tonight but I thought it was a step in the right direction. We’ve got a bit of a younger team this year, but I thought everyone attacked it and there were some good signs in that game,” Fisher-Harris said after the match.
His Panthers teammate Isaah Yeo, who remains undefeated as Kangaroos captain, said he was thrilled with the win.
“I thought it was definitely an improvement on last week. I thought we showed a lot of resilience and stopped some good tries at the backend,” Yeo said.
Meanwhile in other international results, Sunia Turuva scored a try in Fiji’s monster 56-6 win over the Cook Islands in Suva, while Samoa – captained by outgoing Panthers half Jarome Luai – went down to England 34-18.
England and Samoa will clash again this Sunday morning in Leeds.
TOP COACHES HONOURED
Story continued from » p.72
“It’s just the two of us that do it, so to be recognised two years in a row for the award is just incredible… it’s amazing… it’s something that I never thought would ever happen,” Thompson said.
“It’s a great feeling because we do put a tonne of work into what we do. We live and breathe tennis.”
Each week at South Camden Tennis Club and Harrington Grove Country Club, Thompson and Lewis coach up to 200 players, with 30 of those part of their elite development program.
The pair have also launched their own sporting podcast, which has been surging up the charts, called ‘Tennis Talk 101’.
“I built my own podcast studio at my home in South Penrith and last week, we had the top tennis podcast in Australia,” Thompson said.
“The opportunity came up for us to coach in the south-west, but it would be great to coach locally one day. We’d love to be coaching in Penrith – we love the area! I’ve been here 20-odd years and Kelsey’s grown up here. We’re pretty much on the court seven days a week.”
Paul Alamoti playing for Tonga.
John Thompson and Kelsey Lewis.
NATHAN TAYLOR
Talented teen sets Olympic-sized goal
interested.
Everyone has a dream or a goal in life, something that they’re working towards.
One local teenager has a very lofty goal, but if her attitude, focus and determination is anything to go by, the world is her oyster.
After a successful decade in the sport of taekwondo, 15-year-old Ayva Soteriou is hoping to one day represent Australia at an Olympic Games.
It’s a goal she knows is going to take a lot of hard work to achieve, but this smiley teenager is prepared to do anything in her power to make it happen.
“I represented Australia for the first time in South Korea just a few weeks ago and I really want to make that National team again in 2026,” Ayva told the Weekender
“One of my goals is to make the 2026 Youth Olympics in Africa (Senegal), but I also want to represent Australia at the Olympic Games as well.”
The St Clair resident has been involved in taekwondo since the tender age of five when her father – a massive Bruce Lee fan – got her
“I was inspired by my Dad. He watched a lot of Bruce Lee movies growing up and he also did taekwondo as a teen as well. I’d say he got me into it,” Ayva said.
While it took Ayva a little while to get fully hooked, she said taekwondo is the best thing she’s ever done and has turned her into the individual she is today.
“I enjoy the focus, the discipline and the mental side of it a lot,” she said.
“The way you have to be mentally strong helps with my everyday life as well, and just the all-round discipline and focus you need to have to fight at your best.
“I also recently started coaching the young ones too and it’s allowed me to have a completely different outlook on the sport to when you’re fighting. You see things when you’re coaching that you don’t see when you’re fighting.”
Throughout her taekwondo journey, Ayva has won a swag of gold medals, been NSW Champion four times, and currently holds the National Champion title.
Just last month, she was one of
the top 20 junior athletes to repre sent Australia at the 2024 Junior World Championships in South Korea.
“It was crazy over there. The way they train is so different to us,” Ayva said.
“They train longer, they train more often, and they compete every week whereas we compete once a month.
“Overall, Australia did really well. We got a silver medal and that is huge for us.”
Another accolade this talented Year 9 Nepean CAPA School student collected recently is the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation (PVSF) Junior Sports Star Award.
“It felt very good and special to win that,” Ayva said.
Nominated by her mum Shannon, Ayva’s PVSF Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club.
PVSF Junior Sports Star of the Month winners take home a cool $350 each for their efforts.
If you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. Visit www.pvsf.org.au.
Ayva Soteriou is the latest Junior Sports Star. Photo: Melinda Jane.
NATHAN TAYLOR
SPORTS SHORTS
SPORT AWARDS: Three of the six coaches nominated in the prestigious Coach of the Year award at the NSW Sports Awards are from Penrith, proving the city’s dominance across multiple codes this past year. Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, paddling coach Myriam Fox-Jerusalmi and BMX coach Luke Madill are all nominated in the Coach of the Year category. Rebecca Rippon, Misha Payne and Simon Hull round out the nominations. Penrith features prominently in the nominations released last week. Olympic champion Jessica Fox is nominated for Athlete of the Year, while the Penrith Panthers are nominated for Team of the Year after their incredible fourth straight NRL title. Sport NSW CEO Stuart Hodge congratulated all 64 finalists across the 12 Award categories and said the standard of performances were exceptional. “An Olympic and Paralympic year inspires everyone to aim high and chase their dreams whether they are an athlete, coach, official or administrator,” Hodge said. “It is their collective efforts which motivate a nation of passionate sports lovers of all ages and abilities to dive into the pool, run around the block, shoot a basket, or jump onto a bike and enjoy the health, social and community benefits sport provides.” The awards will be held at The Star in Sydney on November 25.
CRICKET: Penrith have scored their first win of the season, defeating Hawkesbury in Round 4 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day Match at Howell Oval, Hawkesbury won the toss and elected to bowl. Penrith were strong with the bat, dismissed for 233 runs. Tyran Liddiard top scored with 67 runs. When Hawkesbury hit the crease, they were dismissed for 92 in their first innings and were 7/206 in their second innings before the game came to an end. Penrith’s bowlers were on fire throughout the clash, with Zachary Rizzo and Owen Cole taking three wickets each. Penrith will aim for back-to-back wins when they travel to the city to face lowly Sydney University this Saturday and Sunday.
CRICKET: Penrith have had a mixed weekend in Round 3 and Round 4 of the NSW Premier Cricket Women’s first grade competition. Playing Campbelltown Camden in a T20 match at Raby Spots Complex, Penrith won the toss and elected to bat. After losing skipper Sam Arnold for a golden duck, Penrith posted a disappointing 8/84 after 20 overs. Skipper Sam Arnold was best with the bat with 38. When Campbelltown Camden hit the crease, they reached Penrith’s target (4/85) after 10 overs and with six wickets in hand. Later
that day, Penrith played a second game at Raby Sports Complex and this time were victorious over Bankstown. Bankstown won the toss and elected to bowl. Penrith posted a very strong 2/154 after 20 overs. Vice-captain Elise Noble notched up 51 not-out. When Bankstown arrived at the crease, they didn’t even get close to Penrith’s target and were ultimately dismissed for 93 after 17.1 overs. Bowler Aimee Ravot took an impressive 3/12. Penrith will now play Gordon in a One-Day Match this Sunday morning at Howell Oval.
AFLW: The end of the season is near for the GWS Giants after they lost their seventh game in a row, this time to Fremantle 55-25 in Round 9 of the AFLW competition. Playing at Henson Park, the Finals-bound Dockers outclassed a gallant Giants outfit by an impressive 30 points last Saturday afternoon. The defeat leaves GWS still searching for their first win since the opening round and they are now at real risk of ending the season with the wooden spoon if results go against them this weekend. This Sunday the last-placed Giants will board a plane bound for Adelaide when they face Port Adelaide at Alberton Oval in the final game of the season.
FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have secured a 1-1 draw against Western United in Round 2 of the A-League Men’s competition. Played at Ironbark Fields in outer Melbourne, the Wanderers led the match early through
Brandon Borrello, who scored in the 14th minute. Up 1-0 at half-time, the Wanderers went into the second half full of confidence that was until United clawed back with a goal of their own in 48th minute via Japanese star Hiroshi Ibusuki. The two teams traded goal scoring opportunities for the remainder of the match, but neither one was able to gain the advantage on the scoreboard. In some positive news for the future, Western Sydney’s marquee man in Juan Mata started the game and played 62 minutes, enjoying 56 touches and creating five chances. The Wanderers will play Adelaide United this Sunday at CommBank Stadium.
FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers are set to mark the 10-year anniversary of their unforgettable 2014 AFC Asian Champions League triumph with a special celebration at their upcoming home A-League clash against Adelaide United this Saturday. The night will honour the Wanderers’ historic achievement as the first Australian club to lift the prestigious Asian Champions League (ACL) trophy. Members and fans can expect a night filled with special moments, including past players returning from the 2014-ACL winning campaign will be in attendance; the coveted Asian Champions League trophy will be on full display for members and fans; the Wanderers will officially launch the ACL Anniversary merchandise collection; a series of tributes to players, members and fans who played key roles throughout the 2014 campaign; and pre-match and half-time festivities. Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson shared his excitement for the upcoming celebrations. “This night is about bringing together the Wanderers family to honour one of the biggest moments in Australian football history,” he said. “We invite our members and fans to join us in celebrating the legacy of 2014, reconnect with some of the legends who made it possible and create new memories together.”
AMERICAN FOOTBALL: The Nepean Ducks have manhandled the UTS Gators 52-8 in Round 5 of the Gridiron NSW Colts competition. The Ducks remain undefeated
Ivan Cleary. Photo: NRL Images. Luke Madill and Saya Sakakibara. Myriam Fox and Jessica Fox.
Wanderers star Juan Mata.
Talented teen puts Olympic dream on the record PAGE 70
For the second time in two years, a Penrith local – who lives and breathes tennis – has won a major coaching accolade at the prestigious Tennis NSW Awards.
In October, 22-year-old Kelsey Lewis from Cranebrook took out the 2024 Coaching Excellence in Development Award at the 2024 Tennis NSW Awards, held in Sydney.
Handed out annually, the Tennis NSW
Awards recognise outstanding tennis professionals, players and programs in the NSW tennis community.
It was the second year in a row that a Penrith resident has won the coveted award after Lewis’ business partner and fellow tennis coach John Thompson collected the same gong back in 2023.
The pair, who have known eachother for 13 years, run an elite tennis coaching business in the south-west called Elite Personal Development.
Together, as a team, the pair facilitate a full-time junior to elite player pathway
as well as nationwide and overseas tournament travel tips for their elite and upcoming junior athletes to compete and develop the skills they need to be successful athletes.
“We started the business together two-and-a-half years ago, but I’ve been coaching for over 25 years. I started coaching Kelsey when she was nine and she has been with me ever since,” Thompson told the Weekender
“Kelsey played professional tennis and then when COVID hit, she made a decision that it would be too tough to go back
and play with all the restrictions, so she jumped into coaching with me and loved it!”
And it appears Lewis’ bold move to switch gears on her tennis journey well and truly paid off, winning the Coaching Excellence in Development Award at
Thompson said it’s “incredible” that both he and Lewis have been bestowed the same honour by Tennis NSW two years’ running.
