Western Weekender December 20 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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SUMMER SCORCHER

As local kids cooled off at the new Penrith Lakes Aqua Park this week, the city was preparing for blistering temperatures set to hit on Saturday. Troy Dodds reports on page 5

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Friday, December 20, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

Colyton High School student Prudence Tuiti killed while crossing busy highway NICOLA BARTON

ragedy has struck in Colyton less than two weeks out from Christmas after a fatal crash took the life of 14- year- old Colyton High School student Prudence Tuiti. As the community mourns the devastating news, urgent calls are being made for better safety measures on the notorious black spot where the incident occurred. Emergency services were called to the Great Western Highway near Bennett Street in Colyton just after 2pm on Monday, December 16, following reports a pedestrian had been hit by a vehicle. Witnesses rushed to her aid, desperately performing CPR while they awaited paramedics to arrive. Prudence sustained severe head trauma and was treated at the scene before she was conveyed by ambulance to the Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Tragically, she died on the way. Officers at the scene were told a white Nissan Pulsar driven by a 43- year- old woman had collided with the teenager. The driver was taken to hospital for mandatory testing. Ropes Crossing resident Natalie Cappa recalled the harrowing scene she

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Tragic start to Christmas

Prudence Tuiti. Photo: Facebook.

The car involved in Monday’s tragic crash at Colyton. Photo: Megan Dunn.

witnessed, as four paramedics frantically attempted to revive Prudence at the scene of the accident. She said more needs to be done to ensure the safety of school students and other pedestrians. “I think the biggest problem is that there are no places to cross,” she said. “So many school students cross through the median strip not using the lights and they appear through the bushes and dash across. It’s very dangerous.” An investigation has been launched and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

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Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Another year to remember A

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

Administration: Sarah Coates, Jennifer Zuleni

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

nd so the curtain comes down on another year in Penrith, and the city where we live, work and/or play has again delivered us quite a ride, and therefore an opportunity for reflection. It was a year in many ways dominated by politics, with our eyes firmly fixed on the State and Federal elections in the first half of 2019. We saw Gladys Berejiklian triumph at State level, brushing aside a ferocious anti- stadium push to be re- elected as Premier. In the process, she launched an unprecedented campaign assault on Penrith to ensure Stuart Ayres was returned locally, while Tanya Davies and Prue Car also retained their local seats. We saw Melissa McIntosh become our new Federal MP in May, on the back of one of the most remarkable political victories in recent times – the Scott Morrison miracle, that could change the way we predict election results forever. 2019 was a year of tragedy and triumph. We witnessed some of the year’s most horrible stories unfold on our doorstep, including the murder of Rita Camilleri at St Clair in July, the awful attack on Shannan Rushworth in February and that incredible shooting outside Penrith Police Station in October. Some of the year’s biggest stories were in sport – Phil Gould’s departure from the Penrith Panthers, Jessica Fox carving up the whitewater all over the world again and the GWS Giants qualifying for their first AFL Grand Final and inspiring all of western Sydney in the process. There have been some incredibly inspiring stories too, none bigger in my view than a little walk around the

Index

Nepean River that has quickly become a movement in its own right. The Men’s Walk and Talk is an initiative that Penrith should be so very proud of, and it has become a life- changing and, in some cases life- saving concept that will only grow in 2020. All in all about 2,500 stories have been published in The Western Weekender this year. Along the way I’m sure they’ve made you smile, perhaps made you angry, forced a tear, created frustration, sparked a laugh or, in the very least, kept you informed. Who knows what 2020 will bring, but with the ferocious start to summer we’ve already experienced, there is almost no doubt that the new year will commence with some enormous challenges. It will be a testing time. We are at an interesting time in Penrith’s history, on the cusp of massive change, and dealing with the benefits of progress and the loss of some of our history and tradition all in one. In such times an independent media, and an engaged readership and community, is critical, and the Weekender is proud to be your voice through this chapter in Penrith’s evolution. A few thank- yous to finish off quite a year, if I may. Let’s start in- house and firstly to our news team – Nathan, Alena, Nicola and Emily. You are delivering what nobody else in our city is – a high quality, legitimately on- the- ground news service of which Penrith can be proud, and which sets the agenda. To Chris and our sales team – Andrew, Linda, Kate, Jay and Kendall – well done on another fabulous year, and we look

News.............................................1-39 2020 Calendar.................40-41 Champion Awards.......42-44

WISHING YOU PEACE AND JOY THIS CHRISTMAS

Business................................45-46 Entertainment ..................47-58 Weekender Living.......59-66

Business Directory.......67-69 Speedway Feature.......70-74 Sport ........................................75-80

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forward to welcoming a new mini version of our Sales Director over the holidays! Thanks to Melinda and Megan who capture the moments that define Penrith over the course of a year, to Sarah and Jen for keeping us both organised and sane, and to our production team – Bonnie, Claire, Ian and Kacey – for making everything sing every single week. I’d like to thank all our columnists and contributors throughout the year, and make special mention of Reverend John Lavender, who will pull the curtain down on his weekly Weekender column on January 31 next year after a 23 year stint with the paper. Thanks to all our loyal partners and advertisers – you are the reason we can deliver the content we do each week and we appreciate your ongoing support. I’d also like to thank our CEO Kathryn Garton for her loyalty and for her passion for the Weekender. Last but by no means least, thanks to all of you – our readers. Your continued support of the Weekender, whether in print or digital, is appreciated beyond what words could describe. Today is the final edition of the paper for 2019 and, hard as it is to believe, for the decade. Our office will be closed from today and will re-open on Monday, January 13. A limited news service will run on our social media pages and website over the holidays. Our first edition of 2020 will be out on Friday, January 17. On behalf of the entire Weekender team, I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas, a tremendous holiday period and all the best for the new year. See you in 2020.

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Locals desperate to cool off as Penrith swelters through 40+ degree summer days TROY DODDS

Teenagers cool off at Penrith Lakes Aqua Park during the hot weather this week. Photo: Megan Dunn. Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Director of Public Health, Associate Professor Bradley Forssman said staying cool is the best way to remain healthy and avoid a visit to your local Emergency Department or GP. “If you have elderly neighbours, friends or relatives I urge you to check they are managing the hot weather. Pregnant women, overweight people, babies and

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enrith is bracing for what could be its hottest December day on record with temperatures set to skyrocket to a sweltering 46 degrees on Saturday afternoon. The record for the hottest December day was under threat on Thursday when temperatures were predicted to reach as high as 45 degrees, but it’ll most likely be obliterated on Saturday. The previous hottest day on record was in 2009 when it reached 42.3 degrees on December 17, though there is some conjecture with suggestions the record was broken in 2017. Regardless, Saturday is set to break new ground. It has prompted warnings from health officials for locals to take things easy – especially with the busy Christmas period in full swing and many people expected to hit the shops to buy last minute presents and food for the festive season. Hot weather can cause a number of health issues including irritability, thirst, dizziness, faintness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, rapid pulse, fast and shallow breathing, loss of the ability to sweat, reduced urine output and seizures.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Temperatures skyrocket

young children as well as those with chronic health conditions are also particularly vulnerable,” said Associate Professor Forssman. “If you or someone you care for is showing signs of severe heat related symptoms, please visit a GP or the Emergency Department and get checked.” Meteorologist Sarah Scully said the hot conditions mean extra precautions need

to be taken at home and on holidays as the temperatures soar. “Severe to extreme heatwave conditions will be felt, so it’s important people follow the advice of authorities and stay up to date with the latest forecasts,” she said. Those wanting to cool off are likely to flood into local public pools, as well as the new Penrith Lakes Aqua Park and Cables Wake Park.

St Marys Freight Hub would like to thank the community and businesses of St Marys for your ongoing support in 2019

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Stadium calls for upgrade 2000 Olympics venue in need of overhaul as participation and revenue declines ALENA HIGGINS

enrith Whitewater Stadium has recorded a deficit for 2018-19, with earnings down seven per cent on last year. Revenue for 2018- 19 was $1,063,442, a decrease from $1,445,350 for 2018, according to its latest annual report. However, total expenses were also down on last year, resulting in an operating deficit of $168,402 compared to $246,142 the previous year. Last week, Penrith Whitewater Stadium (PWS) Venue Manager Jack Hodge told Penrith Councillors a major focus of the coming year was securing funding to completely rejuvenate the site. “It’s 20- years- old now and time for a major renewal of the venue,” he said. However, Mr Hodge said the stadium was still considered world-class, with the Canadian team scheduled to use the site next month for their Olympic selections. Chairman Ross Fowler said patronage for whitewater rafting and canoeing- based activities remains healthy, despite challenging economic conditions. “The stadium continues to contribute to the overall Penrith economy and to the advancement of the sport of canoe slalom

Penrith Whitewater Stadium has been open for two decades. Photo: Megan Dunn. both locally and internationally, adding to its reputation as one of the world’s premier sporting facilities,” he said in his Chairman’s Report. “The venue continues to successfully host local, national and international competitions and attract a significant number of international athletes who see the stadium as their preferred off- season training venue.” Despite this, overall participation figures

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Cr Cornish suggested partnering with a hotel for the top end of the site, while Cr Aitken proposed camping facilities or spots for motor homes as ideas for consideration. During PWS’s 21st Annual General Meeting on September 26, Cr Fowler was re-appointed as Chairman while Helen Brownlee was re-appointed to the position of Deputy Chair. PWS was a venue for the 2000 Olympics.

Developers push ahead with seniors living plans

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were down on last year. PWS’s biggest revenue earner, whitewater rafting, saw participation numbers drop from 6,651 to 5,426. Swiftwater rescue courses also decreased by 21 per cent, but canoe/kayak numbers saw a major increase, up 55 per cent. Councillors Marcus Cornish and Jim Aitken suggested PWS look at providing accommodation on the site to boost visitor numbers.

onstruction of a $59 million seniors living development at Penrith Golf Club appears one step closer after modifications to the plans were recently approved. First lodged in March 2017 by Sunshine Property Investment Group, the development application (DA) for 160 self-care apartments and related facilities was approved by the Sydney Western City Planning Panel in June last year. Once built, the development is expected to include seven, three to fourstorey buildings, a basement car park with 160 spaces as well as ground level visitor parking. It will also boast a community centre featuring a commercial kitchen, lounge/ dining area, games room, consultation room and swimming pool. According to documents accompanying the modified DA, amendments relate to the relocation of an internal access road connecting the proposed development’s car parking to the new Penrith Golf Club access road, as well as landscape changes. It is understood the entry to the Golf Club will be moved from The Northern Road to Glenmore Parkway as part of current road upgrades to The Northern Road. The Golf Club was purchased by Seven

Hills RSL last year, but a spokeswoman for the RSL Club advised the Weekender it was the applicant’s project not Penrith Golf Club’s. It is understood an option to buy the land was granted to the applicant amid financial difficulties two or three years prior to lodgement of the DA. Urban planner, Mecone Western Sydney, is expected to manage the project. The iconic local golf course itself will continue to operate but in a newsletter earlier this year, the Golf Club said it was working to finalise any impact the new development would have on the course. Seniors housing has not been overlooked amid developers’ seemingly insatiable appetite for construction across the City. Lendlease recently lodged a $74 million DA for Stage 2 of a multi- storey seniors living development at 39 Jordan Springs Boulevard, Jordan Springs. The DA proposes three, six-storey apartment buildings featuring 139 independent living units, communal facilities and 171 car spaces. A $19 million DA for 35 independent living units and basement parking at 154-162 Stafford Street, Penrith has also recently been given the green light. Another lodged earlier this month seeks approval for five single- storey seniors living villas at 8 Linksview Avenue, Leonay.

New foundation aims to encourage leading doctors and researchers to our region TROY DODDS

new medical research foundation that aims to attract some of the country’s best doctors and researchers to Penrith has launched, aiming to revolutionise the city’s healthcare reputation. The Nepean Blue Mountains Education and Medical Research Foundation has cross-generational backing and is aiming to work alongside the $1 billion redevelopment of Nepean Hospital to compete for the best medical specialists to be based locally. The Foundation plans to lobby the State Government to be based in the old South Block at Nepean Hospital once the redevelopment is complete. “The Penrith community needs to get behind this – business people, health professionals and the general population,” said one of the Foundation’s drivers and Deputy Chair of the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) Board, Greg Allchin. “Nepean Hospital is the only teaching hospital in NSW without a teaching and research institute. We need that to change so Penrith can be competitive.” The Foundation aims to raise funds

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Attracting best to Penrith

Greg Allchin speaking at a recent function promoting the new Foundation. exclusively for medical research, clinical innovation, staff education and training. “We’re here to help the community of clinicians and researchers expand the boundaries of knowledge and shape the treatments of tomorrow,” Mr Allchin said. “We already know Penrith is a potential hub for drug trials and research into lifestyle illnesses, but we need to formalise the approach to research and teaching.”

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Chairman of the NBMLHD, Peter Collins, said Penrith was the ideal place for worldleading medical research to take place. “Our region reflects the diverse Australia of the 21st century,” he said. “We face the same significant and complex health challenges as our nation ages, struggles with obesity and lives with chronic health conditions and mental health issues.

“Health challenges have no borders. The solutions we find here will have global reach.” The Foundation has already started fundraising, and was the beneficiary of community spirit at last week’s opening of the Lone Star restaurant, where $15,000 was raised. The Foundation is looking for further donations, sponsorships and support.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

PENRITH

AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

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Locals reminded Castlereagh Road will close over Christmas as rail bridge moves EMILY FESZCZUK

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full steam ahead for Transport for NSW and McConnell Dowell, who have constructed the new rail bridge as part of the Mulgoa and Castlereagh Road upgrade project. State Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres and Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh visited the bridge on Tuesday before it replaces the old bridge in the coming weeks. Mr Ayres told the Weekender the bridge is a significant milestone in the bigger Mulgoa and Castlereagh Corridor Project. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This bridge will allow the Federal and State Governments to widen the road to six lanes in one of the most notorious bottlenecks in Penrith. It is such a difficult location but the $105 million invested in this project has brought it to life,â&#x20AC;? Mr Ayres said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The delivery method is also so innovative as they have built an entire bridge, which they will then jack up and move the completed structure into its place after the old one is demolished.â&#x20AC;? Ms McIntosh said the construction has provided many benefits for the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The community have seen it being built

Transport for NSW Project Manager Graham Christy, Stuart Ayres, Melissa McIntosh and McConnell Dowell Project Manager Sasho Anastasieski. Photo: Megan Dunn.

right in front of them on site and the SelfPropelled Modular Transporters, which have been brought over from Belgium, is a massive achievement as they have never been used in Australia before,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This upgrade will provide better access to Penrith for locals and visitors and once it is complete will have provided more than 1,000 jobs.â&#x20AC;? While road closures will occur, Mr Ayres said it has been planned to minimise disruptions for the area. He also recommended people interested in watching the move, do it from home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This whole project scope has been planned around a four-day closure of the rail line so the lowest period when people are on the road and public transport is from Christmas to December 30, so we have taken full advantage of that to minimise issues,â&#x20AC;? Mr Ayres said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would recommend people avoid the area but if you want to watch it there will be a live broadcast on the Transport for NSW website or once itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done, we will have a time-lapse of around 45 seconds that will be more riveting.â&#x20AC;? Castlereagh Road will be closed between Jane Street and Thornton Drive from 10pm on Wednesday, December 25 to 5am on Tuesday, December 31. Diversions will be in place.

the western weekender Âť Friday, December 20, 2019

Road closure on schedule

DESIGNATED & INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS

â&#x20AC;˘ Lendlease C/- Maryland DA19/0810 Development Company Pty Ltd Lot 4 DP 1216994 (No. 9) Bethany Circuit and Lot 5 DP 1216994 (No. 9A) Delany Circuit, Jordan Springs Vegetation removal and construction of 2 x stormwater detention basins (Basin C and V6) and remediation of land Council has received a Development Application seeking consent for vegetation removal and the construction of a stormwater detention basin (Basin I) at the subject site. In accordance with Section 4.5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 the consent authority for this development application is Penrith Local Planning Panel. â&#x20AC;˘ Lendlease C/- Maryland DA19/0811 Development Company Pty Ltd Lot 1002 DP 1215087 (Lot 1002) Wianamatta Parkway, Jordan Springs Vegetation removal and construction of a stormwater detention basin (Basin I)

These proposals are Designated Development under Section 4.10 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the Act). The applications are also Integrated Development under Section 4.46 of the Act. The applications seek approval from the following authorities in accordance with relevant legislation Natural Resource Access Regulator â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Water Management Act 2000 DQG 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH RI (QYLURQPHQW DQG +HULWDJH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. The Development Applications and supporting GRFXPHQWV FDQ EH YLHZHG RQ 3HQULWK &RXQFLOÂˇV '$ Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DAtracker or at the following locations: Penrith City Council â&#x20AC;˘ Civic Centre +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK â&#x20AC;˘ Queen Street Centre Â˛ 4XHHQ 6WUHHW 6W 0DU\V NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment â&#x20AC;˘ 6\GQH\ 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH 3LWW 6WUHHW 6\GQH\ â&#x20AC;˘ 3DUUDPDWWD 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH 9DOHQWLQH $YHQXH 3DUUDPDWWD $Q\ SHUVRQ PD\ IURP 'HFHPEHU WR -DQXDU\ PDNH D VXEPLVVLRQ LQ ZULWLQJ WR Penrith City Council on council@penrith.city in

relation to these Development Applications. Where D VXEPLVVLRQ LV PDGH E\ ZD\ RI DQ REMHFWLRQ WKH JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH written submission. Any person who makes a submission and who is GLVVDWLVĂ&#x20AC;HG ZLWK WKH GHWHUPLQDWLRQ RI 3HQULWK &LW\ Council to grant consent to the subject Development $SSOLFDWLRQ PD\ DSSHDO WR WKH /DQG DQG (QYLURQPHQW &RXUW LQ DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK 6HFWLRQ of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. $Q\ TXHULHV UHJDUGLQJ WKHVH SURSRVDOV SOHDVH contact Lucy Goldstein on 4732 8136. Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed RQ &RXQFLOÂˇV '$ 7UDFNHU YLD penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ DATracker $OWHUQDWLYHO\ WKH DSSOLFDWLRQV FDQ EH YLHZHG GXULQJ &RXQFLOÂˇV QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI &RXQFLOÂˇV 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW ZLOO EH DEOH to assist with your enquiries.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith &LYLF &HQWUH %\ ODZ UHSRUWDEOH SROLWLFDO GRQDWLRQV RU gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

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Council has received a Development Application seeking consent for vegetation removal and the construction of 2 x stormwater detention basins (Basin C and V6) and remediation of land at the subject sites. In accordance with Section 4.5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 the consent authority for this development application is Penrith Local Planning Panel.

fter four successful seasons in Sydney, your favourite outdoor bed cinema is back in town! This time, Mov’in Bed is taking things to a whole other level – literally. The biggest outdoor bed cinema is landing on the Showring rooftop at the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park. Of course, you will be extra comfy in one of the 150 soft beds, premium pillows and cosy blankets. And for some extra fancy features, food is delivered straight to your bed during the movie! Mov’in Bed is screening the latest blockbusters, rom-coms and classic movies on the most high-tech screen technology! Say goodbye to inflatable screens and hello to 4K quality. Get ready for the best balmy summer nights, the most beautiful view in Sydney from the Entertainment quarter rooftop, and the latest movies for 45 magical nights under the stars. For details, visit www.movinbed.com. The Weekender has five double passes to Mov’in Bed to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Cinema’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, January 10 and winners will be notified by email. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

The rebuild of the Sydney Football Stadium has blown out by almost $100 million. While the stadium revamp in Sydney is important, the huge extra costs need to be properly explained to an electorate that trusted the Government with the project at the election.

my Penrith

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

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week! This week’s lucky winners are: 0518, 0462, 0990.

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FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Happy Inn Chinese. FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Henri Marc. FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Panthers. FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Nepean River Walk. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? A strong local community. WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The BBQ area (The Backyard) at Panthers.

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Police car responding to emergency involved in collision NICOLA BARTON

Units sell at auction The aftermath of the crash at Emu Plains on Saturday. Photo: Jason Donnelly. “She was very confused as to what had happened and kept repeating ‘but I had the green light, I didn’t even see him coming’.” Mr Stokes said he thought the incident could have been avoided if the officers approached the intersection with more caution. “He was travelling so fast and didn’t slow down to even check if there were vehicles approaching from either direction on the green light,” he claimed. Mr Stokes noted that the vision at

the intersection was not clear and is obstructed by a building and hedge. He has since been in touch with the elderly woman and her family, who said she is bruised and a bit sore but doing well. A NSW Police spokesperson said the police vehicle displayed both lights and sirens at the time of the incident. It’s understood the vehicle was responding to reports of a brawl nearby. Investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

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police officer and an elderly woman escaped with only minor injuries after a two-vehicle crash at Emu Plains on Saturday. About 1am a marked police vehicle from Nepean Police Area Command was responding on urgent duty when it collided with a Mazda 3 at the intersection of the Great Western Highway and Russell Street. A female police officer and a 72-year-old woman were both treated on the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Nepean Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A male police officer, who was driving the police vehicle, was uninjured. There is conjecture over whether the siren on the police vehicle was sounding when it went through the intersection, reportedly on a red light. Emu Heights resident Michael Stokes was driving about 100 metres behind the 72-year-old at the time of the collision. “After the impact my wife and I and another man ran to her aid and once we determined she was OK to be moved away from the vehicle, we walked her to the side of the road and sat and comforted her until more emergency services and two of her sons arrived,” he said.

A local man has been charged after allegedly sending sexually explicit material and possessing child abuse content. Last month, detectives began engaging online with the man from Emu Plains. Police allege the man believed he was speaking with a 37- year- old mother of a nine-year-old girl and engaged in conversations about sexually- explicit acts he wished to perform on the child and sent sexually-explicit material. Detectives arrested a 59- year- old man at a home in Emu Plains about 5.30pm on Monday. Police seized a mobile phone and electronic storage device. The man was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with ‘possess child abuse material’ and ‘use carriage service to transmit/publish/promote child abuse’.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Confusion over bad crash

Sex fiend busted

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Permits back on agenda Parking reprieve could be on the way for Thornton locals thanks to permit plan NICOLA BARTON

esidents living in a terrace, townhouse or detached dwelling in Thornton could soon be eligible for a parking permit in two and four hour restricted zones. Locals have been calling for the implementation of a permit scheme for years, with Councillor Kevin Crameri seeking a report back in 2016 after numerous complaints. On Monday at the Penrith Council Ordinary Meeting, Councillor Marcus Cornish moved the motion to investigate potential parking exemptions, which was seconded by Cr Crameri. The report considers that a parking scheme not apply to residents who reside in high rise or high-density developments in the estate. “We raised this before and it was dismissed but these people do have the right to park outside their place and I do believe that they should have a parking permit in that area,” Cr Crameri said. “It’s a great place to live but you can’t park outside your door, so I believe that people who bought here and paid big money should have the same rights as anywhere else to park outside their home.

“A simple sticker on the window to stop rangers from charging them is not going to cost much.” Due to the estate’s close proximity to Penrith Railway Station, timed parking limitations are in place to assist with the commuter parking circulation. Cr Cornish said Council had the right intention but the parking situation is only worsening for locals. “It is a very expensive and up market area of Penrith and Council have done the right thing by trying to reduce commuters parking there during the day, however that has a detrimental effect for the people who live in the terrace houses,” he said. “We’re a city that’s growing at a rapid rate, I can see a time where our streets will end up one way because of the sheer amount of people moving to our area but we’ve still got to look out for the people we’ve got. “We should not be doing this sort of thing at the detriment of the ratepayer.” Cr Crameri also called for a further report that seeks to investigate a similar residential permit system in other suitable areas around the region. This would consider eligible streets such as those around Nepean Hospital and Jordan Springs as well as the Penrith and St Marys CBDs.

Councillor Kevin Crameri in Thornton. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Council to take action over abandoned shopping trolleys ALENA HIGGINS

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ocal retailers that fail to roundup abandoned shopping trolleys in a timely manner will now be penalised under tough new rules. The beefed- up measures, adopted by Penrith Councillors last week, are designed to make retailers more proactive in searching for and retrieving abandoned and unattended shopping trolleys dumped in public spaces. Council’s Environmental Health and Compliance Manager Greg McCarthy said he was looking forward to putting the new policy into practice and holding trolley owners accountable. “Word is going to spread pretty quickly that Council is taking this very seriously,” he said. “We’re employing all our powers under the Impounding Act.” The number of discarded trolleys littering the City’s streets, parks and waterways has increased in recent years, with fed-up Councillors and community members demanding action to address the eyesores. Under the new policy, Council rangers or city presentation staff will locate abandoned shopping trolleys, tag them, and if a retailer is identified, contact them and give them 24 hours to remove the trolley or risk it being impounded. If they fail to comply, Council will seize the trolley and issue them with

an invoice for costs incurred during impounding and storage. The trolley can only be released upon payment of fees and charges, and if the trolley is not collected, Council will dispose of it and pursue cost recovery with the retailer. Councillor Greg Davies said the financial penalties needed to be harsh to force the large companies to take action. “Let’s not muck around with how much we charge,” he said. “We have to make it worth their while.” Deputy Mayor Karen McKeown expressed her support for naming and shaming, suggesting Council take an ad out listing the top offending proprietors. “Let’s see if that gets their attention,” she said, pointing out retailers have a corporate and social responsibility to tackle the issue. However, Councillor Kevin Crameri said it was the people who dump the trolleys who were the problem and not the retailers. “They’re just damn lazy,” he said. “They don’t have any respect.” Councils can only fine customers who are caught abandoning trolleys in public places, making it difficult to enforce. Councillor Bernard Bratusa first requested a trolley management policy back in June, declaring “enough is enough”. Is the new policy fair enough? Let us know your view: Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Playing the waiting game Penrith’s social housing shortfall sees locals waiting years for appropriate homes NICOLA BARTON

mu Plains resident Diana McCarty is the living example of a social housing crisis that is raising more questions than answers, and putting pressure on the State Government to act. Ms McCarty, 55, has an inoperable brain tumor that has restricted her employment opportunities. Living with her two elderly parents, she has felt the wrath of the local housing supply shortage. Soon, she will enter her 12th year on the waitlist for a one bedroom apartment. Her story comes as NSW Labor Leader Jodi McKay questions recent points made in Budget Estimates, which discussed the Land and Housing Corporation’s plan to sell 345 social housing dwellings over the next two years. “In the last financial year, 352 social housing properties plus land parcels were sold by the Land and Housing Corporation for $333 million,” Ms McKay said. “If you push people out of their homes they either join the queue to attain an alternative social housing dwelling, usually outside their established community or they struggle to survive in the private rental market.” For Ms McCarty, the wait for an appropri-

Emu Plains resident Diana McCarty is on the social housing waitlist. Photo: Megan Dunn. ate apartment feels like it will never end as each year goes by. “The government is making it easier for rich people to get around but the poorer

people struggle more while they spend their money on silly things,” she said. “We need to build more housing in Penrith not luxury apartments.”

The Home in Western Sydney report released by Wentworth Community Housing and the Western Sydney Community Forum revealed there is currently a shortfall of about 6,400 social and affordable dwellings in the Penrith Local Government Area. “Wentworth is committed to working with the State Government and local councils to increase the supply of social and affordable housing in the region,” Wentworth Housing CEO Stephen McIntyre said. “We are also looking at ways to increase affordable housing stock outside of the social housing system through local solutions like partnering with homeowners to develop Garden Flats in their backyards and establishing a Tiny Homes village.” A NSW Government spokesperson paid credit to their social housing building program and the assistance available for people in the private rental market. “All housing applicants are assessed and if eligible, placed on the housing register. Our policy is to support clients with an urgent or complex need into housing as a priority,” the spokesperson said. According to the report, Penrith requires almost 550 additional social and affordable housing dwellings per year to meet the forecast demand in 2036.

Our oﬃce will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day, but the cemetery will remain open for visits. 14

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the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

* *pre-registration required for free activities.

A cool change is coming to Penrith’s Australia Day celebration in 2020. Make a splash and enjoy hours of free family fun at Cables Wake Park.

Register online for the free Wakeboarding and Aqua Park sessions.Limit of one session per person, on the day. Spaces are limited, register now to secure your spot at penrith.city/ausday. Parking on site and free shuttle buses from Jamison Park at Batt St (near netball courts). Conditions of entry include: No smoking. No alcohol. No glass. No pets. No take-away food/drink. No skateboards, scooters, rollerblades or bikes. No aggressive behaviour. Children must be supervised at all times.

Plus, if you’re keen for a swim dive into Ripples Penrith and St Marys with free entry on Australia Day!

1300 736 836 penrith.city/ausday

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New social housing development will be aimed at vulnerable women aged over 45 NICOLA BARTON

round has been broken on a new $4.4 million social housing development in St Marys, aimed at single women over 45-years-old. Developed in conjunction with Wentworth Community Housing and the State Government, the complex will produce 16 micro-units for single women at risk of homelessness. Homelessness in Penrith increased by 45 per cent between 2011 and 2016, with this particular demographic highlighted as being vulnerable. Earlier this year Wentworth Community Housing and the Western Sydney Community Forum released the Home in Western Sydney report, which revealed a staggering shortfall of about 6,400 social and affordable dwellings in the Penrith Local Government Area. Almost 550 additional social and affordable housing dwellings are needed per year to meet the forecast demand in 2036. Wentworth Community Housing CEO Stephen McIntyre said this development is an important step in closing that gap. “This micro units project in St Marys is an important step in responding to the growing need for older, single women.

Gareth Ward speaking at Wentworth’s launch earlier this week. Photo: Megan Dunn. Quite often, without access to assets, this group is vulnerable to homelessness and extremely limited affordable options in the private rental market,” he said.

Mr McIntyre said there is currently about 80 women over the age of 45 on the social housing wait list in Penrith. “Wentworth recognises the need to

provide a diverse range of housing products to cater for clients with different circumstances,” he said. The 16 23sqm micro- units have been thoroughly planned with input from tenant experience focus groups. The State Government has contributed $3 million towards the St Marys development. Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said he was proud of the great work Wentworth do locally. “I want to live in a state where we have more opportunities to live and feel safe and secure, where families are together and where we have opportunities like this, using the resources we have to find dynamic and innovative solutions to partner together non- government and government to find the right products that work,” he said. “It’s about delivering a hand up not a hand out, how we provide the best possible pathway for people to reach their full potential.” Mr Ward said it is important that they are not simply handing over the keys, but recognising the potential underlying causes that contribute to individuals at risk of homelessness and assisting them to work through that.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Protecting most in need

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

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Sex offender pleads guilty, will be sentenced early next year

A Glenmore Park sex offender has pleaded guilty to crimes against children as well as grooming a fictitious boy online. Michael Slegers, 59, will be sentenced next year at Penrith District Court after pleading guilty earlier this month. He did not appear on screen when his lawyer mentioned his case at Penrith District Court last Friday. The matter was set down for sentence in March and a full sentencing assessment report was ordered. Slegers was arrested and bail refused on January 17 after he began engaging in sexually explicit conversations with Child Abuse and Sex Crime Squad detectives posing as a 10-year-old boy online. Three months later, he was hit with fresh charges against real minors. These related to using a carriage service to groom a 10-year-old boy for sexual activity, as well as committing common assault against a boy, aged 14. Both sets of offending occurred at Glenmore Park between November 2, 2018 and January 19, 2019, court documents show. During his bail application earlier this year, the court heard Slegers lived alone and had no prior criminal record. The prosecutor said Slegers had admitted to accessing various sites and video games used by children, and claimed this enabled him to “facilitate contact” with potential victims. Slegers, who remains bail refused, faces up to 12 years jail.

Cranebrook man to spend Christmas behind bars

A Cranebrook man facing more than 200 child exploitation charges will remain behind bars until at least February. The 79-year-old man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was collared in July by NSW Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team members following a tip-off from

a law enforcement partner. The man is charged with a host of offences relating to producing, possessing and transmitting child exploitation material. Police allege the man produced material featuring a female child who is known to him. It is also alleged the man employed a number of tools and applications in an attempt to disguise his activity in the online environment. During the sting, officers seized a number of electronic devices including a desktop computer, mobile phone and numerous storage devices. On Friday, the man did not appear on screen at Penrith Local Court as his lawyer mentioned his matter on his behalf. Both parties sought a further eightweek adjournment given the voluminous nature of the brief of evidence. His matter was adjourned to February 7. Bail remains refused. Meanwhile, another alleged sex offender, Penrith’s James Wray, 27, had his matter adjourned to the same date for charge certification. Wray is charged with possessing child abuse material and using a carriage service to access child abuse material. He was arrested on July 5 following a referral from the United States but has since been granted bail.

Another alleged sex offender stays in jail for the holidays

A Werrington man accused of procuring a 14-year-old girl for sex online has had his matter mentioned again in court. Michael Amery, 47, was arrested at a Penrith shopping centre in September where he had allegedly gone to meet the teen. Police began engaging with Amery after receiving a tip-off that he had been communicating with the girl. Police allege the accused believed he was messaging the girl and engaged in conversations about sexually-explicit acts he wished to perform on her.

The offending is alleged to have occurred between June 25 up until the day of his arrest. Amery appeared before Penrith Local Court via video link last Friday where his matter was adjourned to February 17 for charge certification. He remains bail refused.

Man who assaulted step-son avoids full-time custody

A Colyton man who blamed misguided discipline for striking his step-son to the head on multiple occasions has narrowly escaped full-time jail. The man, who the Weekender has chosen not to name to safeguard the victim’s identity, was sentenced to 12 months’ jail and ordered to undertake 200 hours of community service work after assaulting the then 17-year-old on three separate occasions, the later two while subject to an AVO. Despite strongly denouncing his behaviour, Magistrate Brian van Zuylen allowed him to serve his sentence in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order (ICO). Penrith Local Court heard the first offence involved the man punching and slapping the teen to the face, with the offender claiming he hit the boy because he wouldn’t obey him. An ambulance was called and the stepson indicated he thought he had blacked out during the assault. The man spent four days behind bars before being bailed. He subsequently pleaded guilty to ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’ and was handed a good behaviour bond as well as an apprehended violence order for the protection of the boy. During his initial sentence, the pastor of his church provide a reference stating the man was sorry and had already changed his ways. “Well quite obviously you haven’t, have you?” Magistrate van Zuylen slammed him last Thursday.

“I won’t do it again... the usual,” he sniffed, referring to the man’s original apology letter. “And he did it again, on his way to church!” Magistrate van Zuylen declared to his lawyer. The court heard the man breached the AVO and bond in April, hitting his stepson to the head and back with both fists on his way to church after he claimed the teen had been disrespectful. Later that day at the dinner table, the man struck him to the eye and ripped his shirt after he asked the boy to sit next to him, who had mistakenly thought he was about to apologise for the earlier incident. His lawyer told the court the man came from a strict Christian family and heavyhanded discipline stemmed from his cultural beliefs. “He intended on the day in question to discipline his son – he didn’t intend to harm him,” he said. He submitted the step-son had since forgiven the man and highlighted there had been no further breaches since April. Magistrate van Zuylen warned the offender the parole board would revoke the ICO and send him to full-time jail if he offended again. “Please understand you’ve received a sentence of full-time imprisonment... please treat it as a prison sentence,” he said.

Man will search bus timetable after being ordered off roads

A man has been ordered off the road for three months after pleading guilty to drink driving. The man fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with low-range drink driving. The court heard the offender was detected during an RBT, returning a reading of 0.063. Despite being his first criminal offence, Magistrate Brian van Zuylen was not persuaded to let him walk free, noting his traffic record. He was disqualified for three months and fined $300.

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Police Snapshot Werrington: Police bust learner driving while suspended

A woman was caught driving without a licence after she attempted to evade police on Tuesday, December 10. About 10.40am police were patrolling around Joseph and Victoria Streets in Werrington when they noticed a car stop a short distance behind them. Police turned around and pulled the vehicle over, asking the 22-year-old driver to produce her licence. She informed police she did not hold one and was breath tested, which returned a negative result. Inquiries revealed that she was the holder of a NSW Learners licence that was currently suspended. She was charged with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;drive motor vehicle while licence suspendedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, to appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, January 14.

St Marys: Police discover woman was carrying knives

An invalid Opal card led to the discovery that a woman was carrying multiple knives at St Marys Railway Station last Friday. About 3.55pm a 36-year-old Quakers Hill woman approached police who were patrolling the station, informing them that she did not have enough money on her Opal card to tap off after her journey. Police conversed with the woman before conducting a search. It is alleged before the search, the woman has handed over a yellow handled folding knife, removed from her bra. Police discovered a further multi-tool containing three blades inside her bag. She was charged with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;travel or attempt travel without valid ticketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and two counts of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;custody of knife in public placeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. She is to appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, January 14.

Erskine Park: Employee at business busted stealing

An 18-year-old Willmot man has been

charged after stealing from his own workplace at a warehouse facility in Erskine Park. About 7.55am on Friday, December 13 it is alleged the man, who was employed as a pallet packer, was walking through the dock area holding a rolled up jumper. He was spoken to by the Security Manager but denied that there was anything inside the jumper. After placing it on a table, security officers unveiled a number of items concealed in the jumper including two Apple Airpod pros, one Apple iPhone 11, one Beats by Dre headphones, two Apple watches and one Apple watch band, equating to the value of approximately $3,500. Police were contacted and he was arrested. He was charged with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;steal property as clerk/servantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, January 7.

Glenmore Park: Youths charged as neighbours act

Residents are urged to stay vigilant after reports of break-ins in the lead-up to Christmas. About 8.30am on Sunday, December 15 the occupant of a Bluebell Close home in Glenmore Park received a phone call from his neighbour who said their lights were on, knowing the owner was not home. The man has returned home to find his premises had been ransacked. Police were notified and the man has attended his neighbourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property and waited for officers to arrive, checking the property every hour or so. Just after 3pm on the same day, it is alleged two Glenmore Park youths aged 14 and 15-years-old have entered through the rear of the property, rummaging through drawers and placing items in their backpacks. Other neighbours who had witnessed what was happening, ran inside the property and ordered the youths to drop to the floor. Police arrived a short time later and they were arrested and charged.

with Daniel McKinnon Complete Legal & Conveyancing â&#x20AC;˘ 4704 9991 â&#x20AC;˘ Suite 11, 354 High Street Penrith

Looking back on 2019 Merry Christmas everybody! Firstly, we would like to thank all of our clients and referrers for your support in 2019. The local businesses like ours are only able to thrive with the support of the local community and other professionals and we are extremely grateful for all of the support we have received from the Penrith community. We thought we would take this opportunity to reflect on some of the significant moments we have shared with our clients this year. â&#x20AC;˘ We have been able to successfully contest a number of unfair Wills for our clients this year. On one such occasion, we managed to secure a six figure sum for someone who had all but been completely disinherited under her motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Will. â&#x20AC;˘ We have also been able to successfully defend and settle a number of proceedings brought against Executors of deceased estates contesting Wills. We have drawn upon a team of experienced barristers and assisted our clients in the Supreme Court of New South Wales with difficult and complex litigation. â&#x20AC;˘ We have assisted a number of clients on a pro bono basis in circumstances where they would otherwise not have had access to legal representation. This includes representation in the Local Court for a woman who was the victim of significant domestic violence to assist her with traffic matters, complex litigation in the Supreme Court of New South Wales and a range of other business and commercial disputes. â&#x20AC;˘ We have assisted hundreds of clients in conveyancing transactions and have had the privilege of getting dozens of

first homeowners into their first homes in time for Christmas. â&#x20AC;˘ We have participated in community functions including the Salvation Army Wills Day whereby we provided our services free of charge to provide Wills to members of the community in return for a donation to the Salvation Army. â&#x20AC;˘ We have helped a range of new established small businesses in Penrith with all of their commercial needs including things like new leases and business sales and acquisitions and shareholders agreements and partnership agreements for new ventures. â&#x20AC;˘ Our resident family law solicitor, Jenna Cullen has been in the unenviable position of helping dozens of clients with the breakdown of their relationships in 2019. Unfortunately, these types of matters are a fact of life and we are pleased to be able to have a solicitor on board to help guide our clients through these difficult processes. â&#x20AC;˘ On a similar note, Natalie Viet has been able to assist a range of people from all different backgrounds with their migration questions and Visa applications. Natalie is a registered migration agent. Natalie has also assisted a range of conveyancing clients and is becoming a first port of call for commercial and business enquiries in the firm. â&#x20AC;˘ We have also welcomed four new staff to the firm, being a mix of administrative support and law students applying their trade before they become fully fledged solicitors. You might have heard Brittney, Orielle, James or Brendan answering the phone in 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we are thrilled that our law clerks will be sticking around in 2020!

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Maccas makes an impact Garton Group donates $100,000 to families in need on top of McHappy Day funds EMILY FESZCZUK

eriously ill children and their families will benefit from more than $100,000 thanks to a donation from McDonald’s Garton Group. Licensee Ian Garton presented the cheque to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) last week, with the funding to go towards 600 nights’ worth of accommodation in the Westmead and Nepean family rooms. “We are passionate about Ronald McDonald House Charities and our communityminded team are so dedicated to raising as much money as possible for this great cause,” Mr Garton said. “It’s more than just a home away from home for families of sick children – it also assists with educational programs so children undergoing treatment do not fall behind in their school work and also assists families have a much-needed holiday once treatment is over in the RMHC family retreats.” Garton Group owns nine McDonald’s stores, including six in the Penrith Local Government Area. The $100,000 comes from various fundraising activities conducted at the stores. The funding is in addition to the

Tim Hempel, Ian Garton and Zoran Radisavljevic from Garton Group with Amal Maait from RMHC. Photo: Megan Dunn. $126,000 raised by Garton Group during recent McHappy Day celebrations. “Our Penrith Leagues store actually won the competition across all stores in NSW as the highest fundraising store for McHappy Day, which was amazing,” Mr Garton said. “It is a credit to our teams across the

stores, but also to our fantastic customers who supported McHappy Day in huge numbers this year.” Mr Garton said Garton Group is looking forward to supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities again in 2020. “Raising funds is crucial for the charity,

to make sure families are kept together while their child undergoes hospital treatment,” Mr Garton said. “All of our 1100 staff can’t wait to be involved again next year and we are already discussing next year’s fundraising activities to help families stay together.”

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

Social housing push I have just read that there are plans to build another high storey building next to the Joan Sutherland Centre (Developers go sky high, Weekender December 13). I hope the council and government can now give a rest to building luxury apartments and start thinking about needy Penrith people that need social housing? This has now become a priority in the Penrith area and it’s time to start making more social housing units for us and not rich people they want to draw to the suburb. If they can do this then I personally want to place my name down for a unit in this block as soon as it is built. DIANA MCCARTY, EMU PLAINS

Games won’t be the same This is insane (Ground announcer axed, Weekender December 13). No matter who they get, it won’t feel like a Panthers game! Maybe they should concentrate on winning games! CLAIRE CARTER, VIA FACEBOOK

We need to accept change There has been a lot of anger around the decision by the Penrith Panthers to sack Scott McRae, but surely we need to look at the positive sides of this. A lot of rose coloured glasses are being used here. Things can always be improved, and sometimes that means making difficult decisions. I wish Scott all the best but

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personally I am looking forward to what next year brings. Let’s look forward with excitement, not back with bitterness. ROD MASON, VIA EMAIL

Love for announcer Such a big loss to the crowd and club. I wish you all the best Scotty and I hope some other club picks you up and appreciates you as much as your Panther fans. TANYA BELCASTRO, VIA FACEBOOK

End of an era I came to see players, cheerleaders and Scott! He made the atmosphere what it was! You will be missed mate! Good luck for the future! SHAMUS DAVIES, VIA FACEBOOK

Fundraising champions The Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke challenge has concluded for 2019. It was an incredible effort by all who took part. I want to take this opportunity to thank the almost 1000 people from across Australia who participated and their generous supporters. During November, striders got moving, walking in rehab, running, cycling, swimming, some participants even jumped out of a plane! Together we can reduce stroke’s impact on our community. SHARON MCGOWAN CEO, STROKE FOUNDATION

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

the western weekender Â» Friday, December 20, 2019

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Heart-warming donation to sick kids at Nepean Hospital

If you are sick or injured and your doctor is closed, the hospital is not your only option.

Sophie Lauster, patient Koen Ross, Laura Davies and nurses from Nepean Hospital.

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tudents from St Paul’s Grammar School played Santa this week, gifting goodie bags to children at Nepean Hospital. Year 6 students held a fundraiser earlier this year where they sold the bags to raise money for their end of year farewell. After the fundraiser, the school still had a lot of bags left over. “We created a stall to sell to the students and we all had to come up with different things to sell,” 12-year-old student, Laura Davies said. “We did have a lot of leftovers so we thought instead of just giving them to

the students, we could give them to the Children’s Ward.” On Wednesday Laura and fellow student Sophie Lauster attended the Children’s Ward at Nepean Hospital to present the patients and nurses with their gift bags. Inside the bags are notebooks, toys, bubbles and slime. The girls acknowledged that not everyone gets to come home for Christmas and said they hope it brings joy to the children who will be in hospital. “I just really hope it makes them feel special,” Sophie said. “We want them to know that we care and that we wanted to do something just for them this Christmas,” Laura added.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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enrith MP Stuart Ayres is calling on residents to celebrate seniors by nominating them for the 2020 NSW Seniors Local Achievement Awards. Mr Ayres said the awards acknowledge the contributions older people in the community make daily. “The unique insights, abilities and experience that seniors contribute to our community is what helps make our area thrive, and this is one of the ways we can show our appreciation,” he said. “I encourage everyone to nominate a

senior that makes a difference, whether it be a grandparent who supports the family, a volunteer that lends a helping hand, or an older person who advocates for the rights of others.” Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee said the awards showcase the positive impact seniors make, while challenging stereotypes about what older people can achieve. “The awards recognise the skills and generosity of older people while encouraging other seniors to get involved and participate in their communities,” he said. To nominate a local Penrith senior, visit www.stuartayres.com.au.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

City Park a game changer Next stage of Penrith’s transformation locked in with design contract awarded NICOLA BARTON

he $12 million Penrith City Park development is powering ahead, after Penrith Council appointed James Mather Delaney Design for the next stage of planning. Situated on the corner of Station and Henry Streets, bounded by Allen Place and Gaymark Lane, the 7,500sqm development is set to be the heart of a city centre transformation. The tender from James Mather Delaney Design (JMD) was accepted for the full scope of the development design at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Monday night. A Council report recommended the use of JMD on the grounds of the experience and value for money. “James Mather Delaney Design has demonstrated their skills and experience in delivering projects of similar scale and nature with other councils across NSW,” the report said. “JMD demonstrate the required level of expertise and experience to deliver the objectives for Penrith City Park.” As a result, JMD were rewarded the $519,720 contract for the design services of the park. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said the City

An artist’s impression of the new City Park in the Penrith CBD. Park is an exciting asset that will bring great benefits to the community. “A City Park will provide workers, visitors and residents with a large open green space with mature trees, mass plantings, water play for children, an amenities

building and public art. Research shows a central urban green retreat and events space is a feature common to all successful cities around the world,” he said. “Penrith’s City Park creates this opportunity, improves the liveability of the City

and will attract investment,” Cr Fowler added. The park is also part of Council’s Cooling the City Strategy, with the aim to create more green spaces in a response to the local urban heat crisis.

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

Merry Christmas

Thank you for your support in my first year as your local Federal MP.

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Wishing our community a Merry Christmas. MELISSA McINTOSH MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY

Christmas is a time that brings people together in the spirit of harmony and happiness. For many it is a significant religious occasion, for others it’s a celebration of family and friends, and an opportunity to reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to the new one just around the corner. 2019 has been an exciting year for Penrith and our community has played a major part in making it another successful year. As we look forward to 2020, Council is continuing to deliver some truly remarkable outcomes for our residents in the shape of Regatta and City parks, while serving the community of Penrith to the best of our ability. The community spirit and goodwill I see every day in my role as Mayor is amazing and while that spirit is with us all year it always seems that little bit stronger at Christmas. With this in mind, I ask that we think of others who are less fortunate at

this time of year. A simple smile, or a greeting, or a visit to bring some joy to those who may be lonely or in need can provide great hope and comfort during the holiday period. I would like to thank the many volunteers that have contributed to the Penrith community in 2019 whether it be the Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service, Meals on Wheels, local sporting clubs or the many health and well-being services. To our local RFS brigades who have been fighting fires in a number of areas, including the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains, while it’s been a difficult start to what will be a long hot summer, I hope you are able to enjoy Christmas and New Year with your loved ones. On behalf of my fellow Councillors and the staff of Penrith City Council, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and new year.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 02 4722 0600

melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au

melissamcintosh.com.au

MelissaMcIntoshMP

AAuthorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 331 High St, Penrith NSW 2750.

WE’LL BE BACK IN 2020: Today marks the final edition of the Weekender for 2019. Our first edition of 2020 will be released on Friday, January 17. A limited news service will run online over the Christmas holiday period.

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the western weekender Âť Friday, December 20, 2019

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

SNIPS AND SNAPS WEBSITE CAN HELP EASE THE LOAD ON HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOMS Up to two - thirds of Emergency Room patients presenting at night and on weekends could have been treated by a GP, according to local data. With the upcoming Christmas and New Year period just around the corner, our local Emergency Departments are bracing for an increased patient load. The good news is that for non-urgent medical assistance, the hospital is not always your only option and a long wait in the

Emergency Department may not be necessary. To help reduce the burden on our Emergency Departments, Wentworth Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, developed the Doc torClosed.com.au website, which helps local residents find after hours medical services.

VISIT WWW.DOCTORCLOSED.COM.AU FOR A LIST OF LOCAL SERVICE PROVIDERS

NO MOORE

It was the end of an era in Sydney radio last weekend, with George Moore presenting his last show on 2GB. The ‘George & Paul Show’ ran on weekends for close to 20 years, on 2UE and then 2GB. The show’s performance on 2UE is stuff of radio legend – topping the ratings despite the station itself running a poor ninth. Moore opted not to renew his contract after failing to agree to new terms with management. Last Sunday, he farewelled listeners to the program and said he was “not retiring”. Sidekick Paul will stay on.

SPENDING CHRISTMAS CASH SPLASH

DoctorClosed.com.au allows you to search for a GP who is open after hours or for doctors who can make home visits. You can also find pharmacies that are open or talk to a health professional 24 hours a day, seven days a week on the healthdirect helpline, to get advice about your medical issue.

With Christmas just around the corner, Accenture has released retail research which highlights that Aussies are expected to spend $686 each on average this Christmas, with more than half ($351) going on groceries. One- third (34 per cent) of Australians will complete their shopping online, with seven in 10 shoppers (66 per cent) researching Amazon before looking or buying anywhere else. The grocery store continues to be important to shoppers as twothirds (67 per cent) would prefer to hand pick all fresh food items. 43 per cent of consumers plan to make an impact with their money by doing business with retailers that reflect their values.

BLOOD NEEDED More than 1194 western Sydney blood donors are needed between December 16 and January 6 for Australia’s biggest ‘Secret Santa’ exchange this Christmas. To celebrate this Secret Santa exchange, blood donors at Australian Red Cross Lifeblood will not only receive a card to give someone special letting them know that they gave blood on their behalf, they will also be giving someone somewhere the most precious gift they’ve ever received: Life. To donate blood this Christmas holiday period, call 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au.

“When you consider it’s quicker to get from Penrith to the city, than from Randwick to the city, you have a major problem.” SHADOW TRANSPORT MINISTER CHRIS MINNS TALKING TRAMS

! DATE YOU WILL NEVER FORGET February has long been celebrated as a month of romance and next year there are even more reasons why. Amanda Ianna, Registrar of the NSW Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages said there are three significant dates on the calendar, with an influx of people expected to tie the knot. “Valentine’s Day is always special, but 2020 is also a leap year and offers the palindrome date of 02/02/2020 – which means the date reads the same in reverse order,” she said. So what date? February 2, February 14 or February 22? For more information visit the Registry website www.bdm.nsw.gov.au.

GIVING BACK TO RFS

The Blue Mountains tourism community will be saying thank you to local Rural Fire Service Brigades by donating funds from visitor tickets purchased for Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22. There will also be physical donation points at Scenic World and participating businesses over the same weekend, with all proceeds going directly to the South Katoomba and Katoomba/Leura Rural Fire Service Brigades. The fundraising campaign is a small gesture of appreciation for these brigades who have been working over the past couple of weeks to keep the Ruined Castle Fire at bay — and to support ongoing firefighting efforts in the region. The following tourism businesses are participating in fundraising: • Scenic World – $2 from every ticket sold. • Blue Mountains Explorer Bus – $2 from every ticket. • The Carrington Hotel – $10 per room booked, $1 per food and drink order. • Hotel Mountain Heritage and Falls Mountain Retreat Wentworth Falls – 10 per cent from all direct bookings. • Equeva Group’s Metropole Hotel, Heritage Motel, Town Centre Motel, Discovery Motel & Echo Point Village – $10 from every hotel booking. • Kurrara Historic Guest House – $10 for each booking. • No. 14 Lovel Street Hotel – $2 for each booking.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

LONE STAR OPENS ITS DOORS

Lone Star Penrith has officially opened its doors just in time for the busy summer holiday period. The restaurant is located on Tench Reserve, alongside a host of new restaurants that have opened their doors over the past 12 months. Lone Star held a soft opening last week, raising money for the Nepean Blue Mountains Education and Medical Research Foundation.

Some of the biggest names in Penrith business attended, throwing their support behind the Foundation in a ‘pay what you want night’, and celebrating the opening of yet another new restaurant. On Monday, the ribbon was officially cut to declare Lone Star Penrith open. Penrith Panthers legends Greg Alexander and Brad Fittler conducted the ribbon cutting. As expected, Lone Star

offers an awesome menu that features burgers, chicken, beef and of course their famous ribs. The restaurant can also host functions given its large size. “We think a steakhouse really complements the other restaurants we have at East Bank and we’re excited to have a steakhouse of such quality in Penrith,” the management of East Bank said this week.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Dry July helps fund new nurse EMILY FESZCZUK

unds raised by the Nepean Cancer Care Centre’s (NCCC) Dry July campaign have delivered a new Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) specialist nurse, Liz McKervey. Ms McKervey, who has been a nurse for 28 years, will be on the team to support men from the Nepean and Blue Mountains region impacted by prostate cancer. “I’m very lucky to be working in such a unique role as I’m looking out for the whole person, not just their cancer,” Ms McKervey said. “I ask patients what they need, and then I provide support through education and counselling, including for their family and caregivers to keep them well.” Brett Macdonald, co- founder and CEO of Dry July Foundation, said they were delighted that the funds have enabled the appointment of a full- time specialist nurse. “It is incredible that the Dry July campaign has been able to fund a fulltime Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse in Nepean,” he said. “Dry July will continue to do everything that we can to support PCFA to grow and

facilitate this program because it is so important.” PCFA’s CEO, Professor Jeff Dunn, said the support of specialist nurses like Ms McKervey is vitally important. “From the day of diagnosis, our nurses are available to provide information, care, and support, ensuring that men and their partners don’t have to go through prostate cancer alone,” he said. “Beyond the trials and tribulations of treatment, many men experience clinically significant distress, depression, and anxiety, and may face ongoing challenges long after treatment finishes.” 81 - year - old John Szymanski knows firsthand the positive effects of specialist nurses, as Ms McKervey helped him through his battle with prostate cancer. “I was honestly going to refuse treatment because I didn’t have any symptoms and the whole experience can be very overwhelming,” Mr Szymanski said. “You have so many questions but can’t just call up the oncologist for answers, you have to book appointments, but Liz became that direct contact and filled the gap. “I don’t think I would have got through it without her and I am so happy she gets to help others in the area.”

Prostate Cancer specialist nurse Liz McKervey. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Local chemists “will die” Pharmacy owners warn they’ll go out of business if planned changes go ahead NICOLA BARTON

ocal pharmacists are concerned their viability is at stake, as a proposal looks to extend the 30-day dispensing policy for patients on regular medication. The proposal, put forward by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, (PBAC) was first introduced in August last year and considered doctors to be given the choice to prescribe larger medicine quantities of approximately 60 days’ supply for some patients who have chronic stable conditions. This was subsequently shut down before the Federal Election. The Federal Government is now reconsidering the proposal and its convenience and financial benefits. However, local pharmacists believe this is the beginning of the end for them and their ability to closely monitor their patients. “This proposal is just to help the government save money but this will come at the expense of the relationship and time we spend with people and if they can’t come to us then they’ll have to go to a GP or Emergency Department where the waiting times are already blowing up,”

Colyton Centre Pharmacy’s Howard Mai, Morris Care and Advice Pharmacy’s Veronica Nou, Londonderry MP Prue Car, Councillor Robin Cook, St Marys Healthsmart Pharmacy’s Haidar Allbadi and Colyton Pharmacy’s Mina Girgis. and saved because of quick and effective intervention. St Marys Healthsmart Pharmacy owner Haidar Allbadi believes it is a push towards corporatisation and said it will destroy small, community pharmacies.

Morris Care and Advice Pharmacy owner, Veronica Nou said. Ms Nou spoke of a time she was seeing a man with red eye issues, who was identified and subsequently diagnosed with early stage myelodysplastic leukaemia

“The estimated average loss per pharmacy if this proposal is brought into place is about $85,000 per annum, us local pharmacies will die and it will be a monopoly from the big name companies,” he said. State Londonderry MP Prue Car met with pharmacists from Oxley Park, Colyton and St Marys last week to discuss the impact this proposal may have. “There’s always a big temptation from all levels of government to save money but it is illogical to move people’s interactions away from pharmacists when our local health services are already struggling,” she said. Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh said the Federal Government won’t implement the proposal without extensive consultation with consumers, the medical community and the pharmacy sector. “This proposal would allow clinicians to exercise greater choice and provide patients both financial and convenience benefits,” she said. “Prescriptions for smaller quantities could still be prescribed for patients as clinically appropriate, avoiding medicine wastage and supporting closer clinical monitoring of patients where required.” Ms McIntosh encouraged local pharmacists to meet with her to discuss their concerns.

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Lee Nova Craft has proudly been providing haberdashery to St Marys, Penrith, Greater Sydney, the Blue Mtns & Country NSW for 34 years! Described as an “Aladdin’s Cave”, Lee Nova Craft is an old fashioned store of sewing, knitting, crochet, needlework, home décor and craft materials, including discontinued vintage & modern fabrics and trimmings. Judy and her staﬀ can help you find the right wool, knitting needles, crochet hooks and cottons, fringes, tassles, frames and tapestries, trimmings from lace to diamontes for costumes and special days.

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Wilgarup

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

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Penrith Council moves annual celebration to Cables Wake Park on January 26 EMILY FESZCZUK

fter years of sweltering conditions at the Regatta Centre and Jamison Park, Penrith City Council is moving its Australia Day party to the water. Cables Wake Park has been confirmed as the new venue for the community event on Sunday, January 26. With free wakeboarding and entry into the inflatable Aqua Park along with a range of fun water place activities for kids under six on offer, there will be something for the whole family at the event. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said after consecutive years of hot weather on Australia Day he expects the renewed focus on water-play will be a popular one. “Cables Wake Park is one of Penrith’s favourite water sport parks and it is the perfect venue to escape the hot summer heat and make a splash with your family and friends,” he said. “Wakeboarding and Aqua Park sessions are hourly, and spaces are limited. Preregistration is essential to get on the water, so I encourage everyone to head to our website and register early to secure their spot.” Attendees can pack a picnic or purchase

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Cool change for Aus Day

Kids will have plenty of fun at next year’s Australia Day celebrations at Cables Wake Park. something to eat from the mobile food vendors on site while being entertained with a DJ spinning tunes and two water stunt shows by Australia’s best wakeboarders. Cr Fowler said the convenient location in

the heart of Penrith will make travelling to Cables Wake Park quick and easy. “There are public transport options close by, parking on site and we will have a free shuttle service operating from Batt Street near Jamison Park Netball Courts

throughout the day so there are a few options to consider,” he said. “Ripples Leisure Centres in Penrith and St Marys will also be offering free entry on Australia Day so residents can visit either facility from 9am to 5pm.”

Time for a smart Western Sydney energy and waste solution By 2020 Western Sydney will be sending 1.62 million tonnes of waste to landfill each year - which would create enough energy to power Christmas decorations from Penrith to Parramatta. Cleanaway is proposing to use world-leading, safe, energy-from-waste technology so that material that cannot be recycled and currently goes to landfill can be turned into electricity. Reduce landfill up to

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Find out more at one of our upcoming community events

WW39896

Friday, December 20, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

Locals come together to donate presents to those doing it tough this festive season EMILY FESZCZUK

he Christmas season is a time to give back and Rap 4 Change (R4C) has called on the community to get into the spirit. The not-for-profit organisation that helps youth, will be handing out presents to the homeless or people in need this festive season. R4C Operations Manager, Tino ‘MC Free’ Isaia said there is always a need to give to others, with Christmas the perfect time to start. “These people aren’t just in need at Christmas time but it’s the season to give so start by giving whatever you can and paying it forward will gain momentum for the future,” she said. “Even giving a little key ring or wrapping a present for a child that would usually have nothing is priceless.” The group has had the help of another organisation to stock up on gifts to give. “Good360 Australia is a not- for- profit that deals with charities so they can get bulk quantities of brand new items from businesses at a really discounted price,” Ms Isaia said. “We have always given gifts but with their help we spent $6,000 but have products that have a retail value of $140,000,

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Community spirit shines

Rap 4 Change staff and volunteers get into the Christmas spirit by wrapping presents for those in need this festive season. which gives us a much wider reach.” Ms Isaia said it was wonderful watching individuals volunteer their time to wrap the presents that will be delivered this week to homeless shelters, families in need along with fire stations.

“Kennards Storage in St Marys gave us a space to host two wrapping sessions and Alpha Products Australia donated food and drinks for all the volunteers,” she said. “We then put a call out to the community and people who knew of us or wanted to

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give back volunteered their time which is the grassroots stuff we are all about.” R4C does not receive any ongoing funding or grants and relies on donations, fundraising and volunteers. For more details, visit www.rap4change.org.au.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Get your Freak on at our newest adrenaline rush The Western Weekender road tests the hot new VR adventure at iFLY Penrith

Co-founder Kim Hopwood, journalist Emily Feszczuk and Marketing Manager Cheryl Dawson. Photo: Megan Dunn.

EMILY FESZCZUK

irtual Reality (VR) gaming has been around for a while but a new entertainment facility in Penrith has taken it to the next level. Freak VR has just opened in the iFLY Indoor Skydiving building and is an experience out of this world. Co- founders Kim Hopwood and Wayne Jones said it is something that you must try yourself to believe. Mr Hopwood said the system does not compare to previous versions on the market. “A lot of people have tried VR in the past and found it has made them feel motion sickness or have found it blurry due to the technology,” Mr Hopwood said. “VR has advanced so much and we have some of the best equipment from Europe that is constantly updating and improving so people need to try it to see how much they will enjoy it.” Mr Jones said the options available mean people of all ages can get involved in the fun. “Our arena on the bottom level is for people who want to get adventurous as they can roam around the room while taking on zombies in ‘Arizona Sunshine’ or try a magical escape room with ‘Corsair’s Curse’,” he said. “The arcade on the top level has individual pods where you can pick from a selection of games that will suit everyone in the family and there is ‘Beat Saber’

Freak VR in action at iFLY in Penrith. where everyone can watch you rock out while you feel the beat while wearing a sub-woofer.” Mr Hopwood said the central location should help make it accessible to more people, and they’re planning on expanding to more venues in the future. “While researching we found VR rooms were often hidden in buildings but at iFLY it really becomes a destination people can keep coming to with their friends, family or even hold parties,” he said. “We will be opening one on the Gold Coast in the new year then hopefully at more iFLY locations and eventually maybe shopping centres, so everyone can access this new level of entertainment.” For more information or to book visit freakvr.com.au. Western Weekender readers can use the promo code WEST10 for 10 per cent off any purchase or gift.

Co-founders Kim Hopwood and Wayne Jones with Marketing Manager Cheryl Dawson.

Some of the gear available to you at Freak VR. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Improvements at Kingswood Station will make big difference for commuters EMILY FESZCZUK

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, Anthony Mulholland and Downer Project Manager, Vlad Stanculescu. Photo: Megan Dunn. City Council’s Access Committee, said it is a much-needed addition for those with extra needs. “I am on the Access Committee along with the NSW Council for Intellectual Disability and the Accessible Transport Advisory Committee, so I often hear people with disabilities that feel their

needs have not been met at other stations,” he said. “These additions will make transport more accessible while making people feel appreciated, so the Penrith community needs to acknowledge the work the Government has done to make this happen.”

The NSW Government has committed more than $2 billion through the Transport Access Program since 2011. To date, more than 470 Transport Access Program projects are either completed or underway across the state. The new lifts were due to be ready for use today, December 20.

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ingswood Station has undergone a facelift to provide much- needed accessibility for customers. State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres joined local resident Anthony Mulholland this week to declare the new lifts open. With more than 4600 customer trips starting or ending at Kingswood Station, Mr Ayres said it will be a large improvement to accessibility. “Construction work at Glenbrook and Kingswood stations started in February this year, and I am pleased that the new lifts will be available for customers ahead of schedule,” Mr Ayres said. “Our less mobile customers and those travelling with luggage and prams will find it easier to access train services thanks to the new lifts and improved facilities at the stations and won’t have to avoid using this stop.” The upgrades, which include two new lifts, stairs, accessible pathways and improved toilets, have been delivered thanks to the NSW Government’s Transport Access Program, an initiative to deliver safe, modern and accessible public transport infrastructure across the state. Mr Mulholland, who is part of Penrith

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Station upgrade complete

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Sean’s inspiring recovery Stroke could have ruined him, but this Emu Heights local is choosing to inspire NICOLA BARTON

uffering a stroke can be a difficult and isolating experience as survivors come to terms with their new ‘normal’. The Australian Aphasia Rehabilitation Pathway (AARP) say every six seconds a stroke will result in the “reduced quality of life of an individual due to ongoing disability.” Emu Heights resident and stroke survivor Sean O’Brien is one of those, as he experiences a common yet often not spoken about disability, aphasia. Mr O’Brien acquired aphasia after having a stroke, as a result of brain surgery for an aneurysm. Aphasia is a communication disability that is caused by damage to the language centres of the brain. As a result, people can find it difficult to understand, speak, read and write. But Mr O’Brien does not let that hold him back as he performs talks all over the country on a quest to spread awareness about the condition. “Although thousands of people acquire aphasia every year, very few people have heard of it,” he said. “My message is that we are normal

Emu Heights resident and stroke survivor Sean O’Brien. Photo: Megan Dunn. with us, talk to us and treat us as they did before the stroke.” Mr O’Brien credits his positive rehabilitation to Director/Speech Pathologist of Optimal Speech Pathology Colleen Kerr,

people who have a communication disorder. Our intelligence is not affected, we are still the person we were before the stroke. “Aphasia is a very isolating and we want our friends and family to stay in touch

who assists him in performing his talks across the country. If you are interested in inviting Mr O’Brien to your next event, contact Ms Kerr on colleenk.optimalsp@gmail.com.

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Drought stricken families given Christmas boost thanks to generous locals EMILY FESZCZUK

hristmas came early to drought affected children earlier this month as part of a special mission. The team from the Sydney Santa Spectacular in Penrith delivered hundreds of gifts to the outskirts of Tamworth. Santa joined the team with his elf helpers to hand out presents to students from Timbumburi Public School for a morning of Christmas magic. Sydney Santa Spectacular founder Jane Evans said it was an amazing experience to bring joy to a region that has been hit so hard by the drought. “We saw first-hand the dry riverbeds and dusty paddocks and even the school oval was mostly dust and dirt, not to mention they now also have the threat of fires in their region,” she said. “It was an amazing experience for my kids to also be part of it, and to have a different perspective on Christmas gift giving. Timbumburri is a beautiful little school and we were so happy to be able to do this for them.” All 159 students from the school received two gifts each that were collected under the gift giving tree at the Sydney Santa Spectacular event at Penrith Panthers

Jade Evans with daughters Willow and Faith, Santa and school kids. from when it opened its doors on November 23. Ms Evans said all gifts left at the event until it closes on December 26 will be given to the Children’s Hospital at Randwick and Westmead.

“We’re constantly blown away by the generosity of people who come to our event,” she said. “There were some awesome gifts given out in Tamworth on Monday, and we’re sure more will come.”

Since the Sydney Santa Spectacular began four years ago event organisers have delivered more than 15,000 gifts to sick children at the Children’s Hospitals in Randwick and Westmead. This is the event’s first year in Penrith.

WW39752

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Festive spirit in the bush

Merry Christmas from Scott & the team at

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the western weekender Âť Friday, December 20, 2019

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Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year. A special big Christmas and thank you to all our volunteer firefighters.

Ross Fowler Mayor of Penrith

From all of us at LPF wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPIONS

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Winning businesses celebrate at the awards night earlier this year.

mall businesses throughout Australia are invited to enter the 2020 Australian Small Business Champion Awards. These Awards are the only national awards program of their type to recognise the hard work, efforts and achievements of the small business community across Australia. There are 46 different industry categories. Steve Loe, founder of the awards and Managing Director of Precedent Productions said: “The national awards program has quickly established a reputation for excellence and has become known as the ‘Oscars’ of the small business community in Australia. It provides an opportunity for small businesses to celebrate and receive national recognition for their achievements.” Entries for the 2020 Australian Small Business Champion Awards are now open and close on Monday, February 3. Complete your entry at www.businesschampions.com.au. The Awards are open to all eligible small businesses within the retail or

service sectors with no more than 40 full-time employees and the manufacturing industry with no more than 100 full-time employees. “Winning the 2019 Australian Small Business Champion Entrepreneur Award was an incredible validation that we’re not crazy, a huge recognition of the amazing work our team are doing, and a great personal win for myself,” said 2019 Australian Small Business Champion Entrepreneur, Rowan Kunz from Art of Smart. “Winning the award has been incredible for building our brand as a company, and was incredibly humbling. It has motivated us to continue working hard to innovate and deliver even more for our students as they navigate their final years of school and make the transition to further studies and career. A huge thank you to Steve Loe and the team at Precedent for creating a platform to celebrate the amazing work that small businesses are doing in communities across Australia.”. Mike Kellett, 2019 Young Small Business Entrepreneur said: “Being

Senator The Hon Michaelia Cash Minister For Small Business presenting Plie Groove ‘n’ Shuﬄe with the Champion Peforming Arts award.

Australia’s most prestigious small business awards. Entries now open at www.businesschampions.com.au

A huge crowd always gathers for the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. WW39722

SPONSORED CONTENT

champions and heroes across the country named the 2019 Australian Small Business Champion Young Entrepreneur was a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for me. With a deeply routed long standing dream of being recognised as a full time self funded entrepreneur, it’s given myself and the business massive industry recognition and respect. Since winning the award it’s taken our once small

start-up onto the same page as some of the biggest brands in the Australian and International health food space. “It’s helped build trust, form relationships and grow our business to another level and we’re on track to have a 500 per cent+ growth this year. Big shoutout to Steve and Precedent Productions for creating an amazing award platform to

truly inspire and empower Australian small businesses which are the true backbone to the Australian economy. When supporting small business you are supporting big dreams.” Businesses throughout Australia will be competing on a national level to be named Australian Small Business Champion in their category at the

national awards ceremony in March at The Star, Sydney. The Awards program is proudly supported by the sponsors, NOVA Employment and Castaway Financial. For further information about the 2020 Australian Small Business Champion Awards, visit www.businesschampions. com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPIONS

Kekilli Jewellery – Jewellery Store What did winning mean to you? It was very rewarding to be recognised in a National business awards. Kekilli Jewellery, is a multi award-winning family business and we are justifiably proud of our reputation for outstanding service, exclusive and unique choice and attention to detail.

Why do you love the Champion Business Awards? It is great to have small business recognised and supported for all their hard work and efforts, which is what the Champion Business Awards are about. It is also very satisfying to put your family business up against other strong competitors in the same category and to be recognised as a true leader in our field.

What is your message to your customers? Thank you for nominating, voting and supporting us. We appreciate your trust in us.

9643 1888 | www.kekillijewellery.com.au Shop 2/3-5 Station Road Auburn

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Our family has been in business working with the best jewellery artisans around the world for decades, ensuring we pick the very best high-quality jewellery for our customers. Each design is inspected with the utmost care to ensure we deliver the highest quality for you. Our passion for our customers is like our passion for our family. Once you enter our shop, you make the first step in joining the Kekilli family.

Nepean Regional Security – Business of the Decade What did winning mean to you? It is almost like a certification process of recognising what you do in business is on track. Owning a small business can be extremely stressful and very unappreciated at times, winning a significant award such as the “ Business of the Decade” just concretes that what we do here at NRS is a point of different in such a competitive and repetitive market.

Why do you love the Champion Business Awards? Who doesn’t love winning an award? It is a celebration of the best of the best in small business in Australia. I believe that these awards are critical for the identification and recognising amazing business owners. The flow on effect for us after the awards is just having that extra edge in tender submissions, gaining contracts and new customers for our business. We deliver the same product as the other security companies; however they see that we have won 27 industry awards, including the Australian Small Business Champion awards and this places our business in a great position for gaining contracts.

What is your message to your customers?

4732 5369 | nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au Unit 1, 42-46 Camden Street, Penrith

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ML No. 405714685

Firstly, Thank you! We love you! You don’t have a business without customers. We have had loyal customers with us for 21 years, when NRS first started in 1998 . It is their belief in us that has made the business as successful as it is. Our customers are family to us and whilst they grow , we grow, it’s a collaboration union. Over the many years, I pick up the phone and instantly know the different voices of the different business owners, we small chat and have a laugh as well. I love the fact that they trust NRS to look after their baby, their business. I am honoured that they trust NRS so much.

The Shower Repair Centre – Services What did winning mean to you?

Champion derives from the Latin word meaning “field” from where its usage evolved into “Best in the Field”. Winning the award gives recognition to our work and our team showing that, the 21 years we have been putting in the hard yards, has paid dividends. It shows our team members that with all the highs and lows, all the effort and long hours of training, over the years, we are heading in the right direction. The award demonstrates to others that our expertise, our innovations, our trailblazing methods and our attention to detail are recognized. We are the “Best in the Field “ in our area of expertise.

Why do you love the Champion Business Awards?

We love the Champions Awards because they are technically rewards. They are a prestigious recognition of a company’s success. They give recognition to all the hard work that our team, both in the office and out on the road, has put into the service we provide. The Champions Awards also give a great PR opportunity for The Shower Repair Centre in two ways: firstly, in making the short list and secondly and hopefully winning. These two factors get the company advertorial highlights in places that might not have been available previously and word of mouth exposure propagates the success of our company in intangible ways that attest to our professionalism.

What is your message to your customers? The motto of The Shower Repair Centre is “Punctuality and Perfection” which is instilled

1300 888 806 | showerrepaircentre.com.au

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into all of our technicians during their training: “Get there on time and do an excellent job”. We are so confident about our service that we give our customers a 25-year warranty. Sealing leaking showers is a back-breaking process but our ground-breaking technologies which were devised and trademarked by our company does the job successfully. No more leaks without the costly expense of removing and replacing tiles thereby saving our customers thousands of dollars. Our customers are our greatest asset whom we treat with the utmost courtesy for without them we have no business.

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

A U S T R A L I A N SMALL BUSINESS

CHAMPION AWARDS 2020

Be part of Australia’s most prestigious small business awards. Entries no now ow open at www.businesschampions.com.au

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Let your kids fall in love with dance

Sydney Coliseum Theatre, West HQ 55 Sherbrooke St, Rooty Hill NSW 2766 9677 4916 www.sydneycoliseum.com.au

ustralian kids love to dance. There are more Australian children participating in dance classes each week than in any other team sport. And the good news? It’s good for them. Dance classes promote social interaction and help children foster positive relationships. Getting children to attend class can help pull them out of their screen-time bubble and bring them face-to-face with each other all while improving their physical health. Instilling a love of dance in children from a young age can help motivate them to stay active as they grow. During dance classes teachers inspire kids to try new things while promoting self-motivation and self-discipline. Teachers also help students learn about themselves, boosting their confidence and improving their self-esteem. Looking for a way to inspire your child to dance? The Australian Ballet’s Storytime Ballet is designed especially for kids aged three and up. Running for under

an hour, these interactive, narrative versions of great classics are a perfect introduction to dance. These school holidays Storytime Ballet will take a young audience on a spellbinding adventure through the Land of Sweets. A bite-sized version of the world’s most beloved ballet, ‘The Nutcracker’, will be touring for two days only at the brand-new Sydney Coliseum Theatre on January 11 and 12 2020. Follow Clara as she goes on a magical journey and meets The Sugar Plum Fairy, The Mouse King and The Nutcracker Prince. Children are encouraged to come dressed in their favourite balletinspired outfits and make magic happen with the performers for pure, light-hearted fun. Both children and parents alike will love this special festive performance, so make sure to not miss the magic of this critically acclaimed series. Keep up with The Australian Ballet on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, visit australianballet.com.au

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the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

heading to www.facebook.com/westernweekender, or Twitter via @wwpenrith. See what we’re up to on Instagram via @ westernweekender.

Why voice search must be part of your marketing Katina Beveridge // Digital Business Solutions Advisor Western Sydney Business Centre | 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

Changes to trafﬁc and road closures at The Northern Road South Penrith from Friday 3 January 2020

As part of the work during this period, there will be ongoing changes to trafﬁc, including road closures and lane changes from 3 January to 24 January 2020. This work will include temporarily reducing The Northern Road to one lane in each direction and removing trafﬁc lights at the Smith Street intersection. Smith Street West will be left in left out, and Smith Street East will be closed.

Detours will be in place during the closures which may affect travel times. Traffic will be diverted via alternate routes. Please keep to speed limits and follow the direction of detour signs and traffic controllers. For the latest traffic updates, please call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App. Thank you for your patience during this important work.

For more information please call our delivery partner Lendlease on 1800 870 665 or email tnr.community@lendlease.com or visit rms.nsw.gov.au/wsip

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oice search is one of the upcoming digital marketing trends businesses should watch out for in 2020. In fact, according to Google, voice search is now the fastest growing form of online search, thanks to the rising popularity of virtual assistants like Siri, Cortana, and Alexa. It is quite clear that voice search has made queries a lot easier. All they have to do is turn on the virtual assistant and speak what they’re looking for. It is more convenient to say “Siri, where’s the nearest steak restaurant here?” than typing the whole sentence out. As a business, how do you optimise your website for voice search? Think of search in terms of questions The best way to prepare your site for voice search is to look at your content and come up with questions that you are able to answer. For example, if you’re a restaurant that offers salads and pasta in Sydney, you could edit or create your content to answer the following questions: • Where is the best salad/pasta place in Sydney?

• Where to find the best (type of pasta or salad in your menu)? Focus on long-tail keywords Long-tail keywords are search terms and phrases that are made of four words or longer. Since users will be searching more in the forms of questions, you need to think of conversational, long-tail keywords to include in your content. For example, instead of using “best pizza”, you should use more specific keywords, like “best pizza place in Sydney”. Improve page speed Google has already verified that page speed is one of its important ranking factors, so you need to make sure that your website loads quickly. People who use voice search want faster results, so Google prioritises page speed when it comes to voice search. Summary Voice search is going to be a key component of digital marketing in the future. Hence, it is important to incorporate voice search in your marketing strategy as early as now.

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Transport for NSW

BLZ_SB0946

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Did you know that you can keep up to date with what’s going on in Penrith via our social media pages? Make sure you like us on Facebook by

Transport for NSW is continuing work on The Northern Road upgrade, South Penrith.

BUSINESS

Follow the Weekender on social media

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Favourite duo back in Penrith A SPECIALISING IN

fter three straight years of selling out 130 shows around the country, powerhouses Marina Prior and David Hobson will bring their up close and personal show, ‘The Two of Us’, to Penrith next year. Marina said the opera and musical theatre duo love doing the shows around their other work, and are looking forward to returning to Penrith. “We cover everything we are known for with big musical theatre and operatic hits like ‘Phantom Of The Opera’ and ‘Les

Miserables’ along with Celtic, pop and classical music crossovers,” she said. “We both have busy work schedules on different shows but then we get to come back to this project, and it is so fun with lots of chat to the audience and an insight into what we do.” David said knowing Marina for 35 years creates a chemistry on stage for audiences to enjoy along with their accompanying pianist, David Cameron. “We met on our first show many years ago then continued crossing paths and we really push each other as musicians to achieve more,” he said. “Audiences really respond to our genuine comfort level and the three of

BEER BREWING  ................................................................... DISTILLING  ................................................................... CIDER AND SOFT DRINKS  ................................................................... CHEESE MAKING  ................................................................... YOGHURT AND KEFIR  ................................................................... TOFU  ................................................................... SAUSAGES SMOKING CURING  ................................................................... COFFEE ROASTING  ................................................................... FOOD PRESERVING  ................................................................... AUSTRALIAN NATIVE FOODS  ................................................................... CHOCOLATE MAKING  ................................................................... WINE AND MEAD MAKING  ...................................................................

us have a fabulous time on stage almost like a band, even though we are classical performers.” Marina said there is something for every music lover in the show and that her personal favourites change. “I do love the theatre and opera but the Celtic section where we all sing in threepart harmony just feels to me like a really special moment,” Marina said. “During these tours I have found one night a particular song will be the highlight then the next night something else will be, but it’s all about how the stars align.” With some added extras, David encourages everyone to join in on the fun.

“We can really feel the audience coming with us on the journey as we go in such diverse directions,” he said. “There will be all the favourites plus new material that will make it an uplifting and entertaining night with belly laughs and a lot of fun.” If you want to hear the classics you know and love, backstage and life stories, but also brand new songs with a hint of humour thrown in, make sure to get your tickets for this very special tour. ‘The Two of Us’ will be on at the EVAN Theatre in Penrith on Friday, February 7 at 8pm. Tickets are $59. To book or for more information, call 1300 PANTHERS or visit penrithpanthers.com.au.

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

Ph: 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Hwy Kingswood

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

www.countrybrewer.com.au

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EMILY FESZCZUK

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Start the new year right with this top kids’ show EMILY FESZCZUK

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ah- Lah, Australia’s premier band for young children performing original Australian songs influenced by a diverse palette of musical genres, is coming to Panthers. 11 years on, Lah- Lah has proven to be a hit with families with its annual national tour and international broadcast platform. The cast are all leading musicians and performers in their own right and each has their own adorably quirky character in the band. Seen daily on ABC KIDS and ABC iView, in their brand new show ‘Lah- Lah’s Stripy Sock Club’, Lah- Lah introduces

Festive fun

EMILY FESZCZUK

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500- strong congregation led by the splendid pipe organ, Penrith Symphony Brass and a massed choir will be an inspiring feature of this year’s ‘Music and Readings for Christmas’ at St Finbar’s Christmas Service. Carols will include ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, ‘While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night’, ‘The First Noel’ and ‘The North Wind’. Uplifting music from the choir will include ‘Hallelujah’ from Handel’s immortal Messiah and ‘O Holy Night’. There will be special moments from the soprano, tenor and harp soloists, including the singing of ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ in the dark-

KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LTD 1490 Elizabeth Drive | Kemps Creek | Phone: 9826 1375 Email: functions@kcsb.com.au | Website: www.kcsb.com.au

kids to music and musical instruments. Now is the chance for children to enjoy them up close and 100 per cent live in their concert. Every Lah- Lah show includes a free full cast meet and greet session after the show, so don’t miss the chance to see the band, touch and try the real musical instruments, have your photo taken with the stars, and collect their autographs which is all included in the ticket. Lah-Lah’s Big Live Band will be on at the EVAN Theatre in Penrith on Saturday, January 11 at 10.30am. Tickets are $29.90. To book or for more information, call 1800 PANTHERS or visit penrithpanthers.com.au.

ened church with only candle illumination. All will be conducted by Robert Ampt with Amy Johansen playing the pipe organ. As always, the Christmas Story will be read by members from Lower Mountains churches. The event is eagerly looked forward to by people of all faiths as well as music lovers as one of the best loved Christmas events, so make sure to arrive early for this truly traditional Christmas concert. ‘Music and Readings for Christmas’ will be on at St Finbar’s Catholic Church in Glenbrook on Sunday, December 22 at 7.30pm. Entry is by donation and it is suggested as $15 for individuals and $35 for families. For more information, call 4754 1780 or 4758 6067.

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the western weekender Âť Friday, December 20, 2019

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

2020

New Year’s Eve at The Penrith Gaels at Come and see in the New Year with

COVER X SHOW playing from 9pm. Enjoy a great night of classic rock covers from all over the music world – from AC/DC to ZZ Top!

LIVE AND FREE

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Cnr Glebe Pl & Richmond Rd Kingswood Phone 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au

Head back to the ‘80s! EMILY FESZCZUK

Your social media profiles managed from just $160 per week

Princess Bride’ plus on the final day of the film festival all five movies will get a run from 11am. Make sure to go all out and don your shoulder pads and bubble skirts, oversized tees or high waisted jeans. Be sure to bring the kids if rating permits, lower your expectations and prepare for some chilled summer fun out of the heat. ‘80s Film Festival’ will be on at The Joan in Penrith from Saturday, January 11 to Saturday, January 18. Tickets for a single film are $12 or $50 for the whole week. To book or for more information, call 4723 7600 or visit www.thejoan. com.au.

FACEBOOK MANAGEMENT

O THER PLATFORMS

Sit back and focus on your business, and let MTM Digital handle your Facebook page. We’ll arrange regular and consistent posts, plus manage your inbox communication and other elements of your page.

Need help with Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn? What about a regular newsletter to your valued clients and supporters? We can do it all. Talk to us about your social media and digital needs today.

“MTM Digital has taken the pressure off our business when it comes to staying relevant on social media. They have done an excellent job building our presence and generating interest” Rod Matthew, KSR Autobody

EMAIL SOCIAL@MTMDIGITAL.COM.AU OR VISIT WWW.MTMDIGITAL.COM.AU WW35928

THE NEWEST AQUA PARK IN NSW

NOW OPEN!

penrithlakesaquapark.com.au Gate A, Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith (Sydney International Regatta Centre)

Bring this voucher in to receive either $5 off on a single session OR $10 off on an all day pass *Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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t’s steaming hot outside, school holidays are in full swing and you’ve had enough of the festive season. Why not retreat to a cool, dark theatre to indulge yourself in some of the most iconic movies to come out of the ‘80s? There will be two movie showings per day from 11am and 2pm throughout the week at the ‘80s Film Festival at The Joan in January. Expect to see favourites like ‘Footloose’, ‘Dirty Dancing’, along with ‘Risky Business’, ‘Flashdance’ and ‘The

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Social media management without the stress

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, December 20

Fleetwood Nicks Pioneer Tavern, 4736 4466 Saturday, December 21, 9pm, Free entry

Dragon – Penrith Panthers $35, 8pm 1300 061 991 Born Jovi – Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9670 3050

Atomic Rock – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 All I Want For Christmas – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764

Sunday, December 22

Unforgettable Christmas Experience – Penrith Panthers Free for members, 5pm 1800 061 991 Tall Timbre – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Di Solomon – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777

Sips & Sounds Penrith Regional Gallery, 4735 1100 Friday, December 20, 5pm, Free entry

Friday, December 27

Creedence & Women Of Rock Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Ignition Fridays – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 8pm 4736 4466 Dwayne Elix – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211

Skyz the Limit – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Break Up Day Party – O’Donoghues Free entry, 3.30pm 4735 5509 Bon Jovi Tribute – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Frocks – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 On The Prowl – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Ignition Fridays – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 8pm 4736 4466 Rogue Syndicate – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 5764

Something to Talk About – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase – Penrith Panthers From $35, 8pm 1800 061 991 John Mackie & Yuki Kumagi Jazz Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 All Access 80s – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Pink Chevys – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Outlier – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777

Toxic Dolls St Marys Leagues Club, 9677 7777 Friday, December 27, 9pm, Free entry

Venus Two – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777 Blackwater – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 5pm 4722 8180 Family Fun Day – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 1pm 4736 4466 Pink Chevys Penrith RSL, 4728 5200 Sunday, December 29, 2pm, Free entry

Gabriel Emilia Jamison Hotel, 4721 5764 Sunday, December 22, 1pm, Free entry

Family Christmas Festival – Spence Park Penrith Free entry, 4pm Christmas Night Market – Glenmore Park Town Centre Free entry, 4pm 1300 385 838 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4734 5555 Sharron Syron – Kingswood Hotel Free entry, 7pm 4721 2999

Steppin Out – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180

Saturday, December 28 Jazz Express – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (M Science fiction violence) Thurs: 12:01AM, 12:15AM, 12:30AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:00PM, 1:00PM, 2:30PM, 3:00PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 6:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM, 8:50PM, 9:30PM, 10:00PM, 10:30PM, 11:30PM. Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon: 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:00PM, 1:00PM, 2:30PM, 3:00PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 6:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM, 8:50PM, 9:30PM, 10:00PM, 10:30PM, 11:30PM.

PENRITH

Tues: 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:00PM, 1:00PM, 2:30PM, 3:00PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 6:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM.

SESSIONS VALID 19TH TO 25TH DECEMBER

Wed: 3:00PM, 3:40PM, 4:20PM, 6:30PM, 7:00PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM.

Playing With Fire (PG Mild themes and crude humour) WW38935

Session times are subject to change without notice, visit www.hoyts.com.au to check session times or book tickets

Daily except Tues, Wed: 10:10AM, 12:40PM, 3:50PM, 6:20PM. Tues: 10:10AM, 12:40PM, 3:10PM, 6:10PM. Wed: 5:50PM.

Black Velvet – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4734 5555 Anything Goes – St Marys RSL Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 6555 Blow – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 The Bad 80s Band – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 Showpony – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180

Sunday, December 29

Saturday, December 21

Endless Summer Beach Party Colonial Hotel, 9623 1384 Saturday, December 28, 9pm, Free entry

O D UST

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

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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

Something for everyone at Panthers this New Year’s Eve It’s not just the end of the year but a commencement of a brand-new decade. Make your New Year’s Eve one to remember at Panthers’ Rio Carnivale themed party. With activities throughout the club from 3pm there is something for everyone. Kids can enjoy the rides and face painting while the adults can enjoy the cocktails and DJs until late. With fireworks at 9pm and midnight, it is set to be a big event so don’t miss it. It will be held at Penrith Panthers on Tuesday, December 31 from 3pm.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

Penrith RSL Travel Club New members welcome 0405 332 464 Penrith South Probus Club Third Thursday of each month 4729 2119 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143

Fun for the kids at Panthers

Card making at the Regional Gallery

Keep the kids busy during the school holidays with bingo at Panthers Penrith on Thursday, January 9 at 10am. Tickets are from $12.

Make a card for someone special for free at Penrith Regional Gallery between 9am and 5pm until Tuesday, December 24.

EPIC NEW COURSE

Castle Hill Showground, 19 - 22 December

TUFF TODDLERZ, TO CATER TO OUR 2-6 YEAR-OLD NUTTERZ

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2 Tuff Nutterz is coming back to the Hills to kick off the holiday season! 2 Launching our epic new course, Tuff Toddlerz, to cater to our 2-6 year-old Nutterz 2 We will have a large shaded area, food on offer and ice cream and coffee 2 Awesome music and other games all included 2 We are also launching a teen event: www.tuffteenz.com

Penrith Lions Club Second and fourth Monday Penrith Bowlo• 4736 1546

Book tickets now at www.tuffnutterz.com

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

At the movies... Not much of a spark PLAYING WITH FIRE ++ 1 hour, 36 mins EMILY FESZCZUK

We’re finishing off the year with a movie that probably won’t walk away with an Oscar, but you will certainly walk away with a smile on your face. ‘Playing With Fire’ shows the challenges and chaos when a team of expert firefighters (Keegan- Michael Key, John Leguizamo and Tyler Mane) led by straight- laced fire superintendent Jake Carson (John Cena) rescue three siblings (Brianna Hildebrand, Christian Convery and Finley Rose Slater). Unable to locate their parents, the team quickly realise that no amount of training can prepare them for baby

sitting as their lives and fire depot is turned upside down. Unlike the unpredictable fires they deal with in the movie, the storyline was very set out from start to finish. It was more just a series of shenanigans that didn’t really add to the plot but produced laughs here and there. You enjoy watching the burly men, especially Cena, transform as they soften while babysitting and learn that kids can be as uncontrollable as the fires. The children’s cast was great providing one liners and more moving moments throughout. ‘Playing With Fire’ is suited to younger audiences and it probably isn’t going to spark five star reviews from adults, but it’s a nice watch.

THIS SATURDAY DECEMBER 21 WE WILL BE HOLDING A

CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN DAY

CHARITY FUNDRAISER ACTIVITIES START AT 11AM - 3 PM Santa Claus & Elves

Fire truck Police car Hot rods

Dancers Face painting

Juggler Magician DJ

FREE

Giveaways Givea ways

Raffle lots of with prizes to be won!

All money raised will be donated to the NSW Rural Fire Services

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78-88 Tench Avenue JAMISONTOWN (opp. the Nepean River)

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the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Congratulations The Western Weekender’s Christmas Giveaway Bonanza delivered some festive surprises just before the big day. Drawn on Monday December 16th, 15 Lucky winners have won some fantastic presents just in time for Christmas! 1st Prize – Mercure Penrith 3 Night Stay (Valued at $600) – Ian Banks 2nd Prize – Twin Creeks | 4 Rounds of Golf (Valued at $500) – Raymond Griffith 3rd Prize – Cables Wake Park | 4 Family Passes (Valued at $320) – Soma Rudhar 4th Prize – Jetpack Penrith | 3 Passes (Valued at $297) – Michelle Trefelis 5th Prize – Nepean Belle| Lunch for 4 People (Valued at $260) – Pam Chamberlin 6th Prize – iFly Indoor Skydiving | Double Pass Intro for 2 People (Valued at $219) – Steve Otter 7th Prize – Major Oak Theatre Restaurant | 4 Tickets Show & Dinner (Valued at $200) – Dawn Smith 8th Prize – Nepean Belle | Devonshire Tea for 2 People (Valued at $156) – Sean Brandolino 9th Prize – Cincotta Chemist | Health & Beauty Hamper (Valued at $150) – Johnny Graffham 10th Prize – Annice Kathleen Photography | Photoshoot + 6 Images (Valued at $145) – Gary Johnston 11th Prize – Poles | Christmas Sweets Hamper (Valued at $125) – Steve Harvey 12th Prize – Big W |$100 Gift Card – Pam Cliff 13th Prize – News Extra Newsagency St Clair | Instore Credit (Valued at $100) – Jenny Alexander 14th Prize – Country Brewer |Camembert and Blue Cheese Making Kit (Valued at $89) – Adam Deenan 15th Prize – Bodycare Therapy | 2x 30 Minute Relaxation Massages (Valued at $70) – Joe Trefelis

The Western Weekender would like to thank all the participating businesses for donating the prizes and everyone for entering and supporting the competition.

Bodycare Therapy

Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by worldaway.com.au | 8872 9697

Crossword ACROSS 1. Unattractive 4. Sweet biscuits 8. Sudden attack 11. Of hearing 13. Fly around (globe) 15. Winged predator 17. Chubby 18. Unforeseen outcome 20. ... we there yet? 21. Cowboy’s rope 24. Sequence 27. Extended play recordings (1,2) 28. Charity appeal 30. Trim (bush) 31. Regions 33. Joined (traffic) 34. Inventor, Thomas ... 35. Rebuff 36. Female title 39. East African land 42. Satirical performance 44. Pickle flavouring 45. Scrub 46. Walks with muffled tread 48. Heavy horned animal 49. Perch 50. Very eager 52. Midriff swelling 54. Knock out 55. Confusion (3-2) 56. Slow-moving mammals 57. Apple pip 60. Imperial unit 62. Culturally revered 65. Inspiring dream 67. Channel 69. Rock/pop singer, ... John 70. Struggle 72. Spider’s lair 73. Baggy 75. Actress, Sophia ... 77. His, hers & ... 79. Get more guns 81. UAE state, ... Dhabi 82. Nairobi’s republic 84. Nation, ... Rica 85. Ruminated 86. Stick (out) 87. Diminishes 88. Ancient guitar

DOWN 1. Fertiliser ingredient 2. Beer 3. Oscar winner, ... Brynner 4. Round loaves 5. English university 6. Recite (prayer) 7. Traded for money 8. Lacerate 9. Bewildered (2,3) 10. Spots 12. Pry 14. Donkey 16. Cosmetics house, Elizabeth ... 19. Famed UK racecourse 22. TV reception pole 23. Squanders, ... wastefully 25. Ruddier 26. Slacken (4,2) 29. Suﬀusing 32. Finish 35. Neck garments 37. Malicious ﬁre-setting 38. Tomb inscription 40. Melancholy 41. Throw a tantrum (3,2) 42. Ladder steps 43. Soil 44. Beef dish, steak ... 47. Drenching 51. Kept man 52. Conceals 53. Weather feature (2,4) 54. Trouble 58. Variety bill presenter 59. Hullabaloo 61. Spiteful 63. Sedates 64. Launders 65. Single book in series 66. Hog’s grunts 68. Shocked, taken ... 71. Brahma follower 72. Enfold 74. Milky gem 76. Wheels’ outer edges 78. In no peril 80. Crustacean eggs 83. Moray ...

Last week’s solution

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Sudoku Fill in all squares so each row, column and each of the nine 3 x 3 squares contain all digits from one to nine.

Last week’s Sudoku solution

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by worldaway.com.au | 8872 9697

Word Search Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

THEME: BONNIE & CLYDE

BANKS BLANCHE BURGLARY CIGARS CRIME CRIMINALS CROSSFIRE DEPRESSION DESPERATE FRANK HAMER FUSILLADE GANG GAS STATIONS GUN-TOTING LOUISIANA NEW MEXICO NOTORIETY PARKER POLICE PROHIBITION PUBLIC ENEMIES SEX APPEAL SMALL STORES Last week’s Word Search solution

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1. Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed in March. What model plane was it? 2. In what month were more than 50 people killed in an horrific terror attack in Christchurch? 3. Fire caused heavy damage to which iconic Paris structure?

4. What is the first name of Prince Harry and Meghan’s child, who was born this year? 5. Which three- time Formula One champion passed away in May? 6. Who won this year’s AFL Grand Final?

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

Ê Well it’s that time of year again when I hand out my famous Chatter on the Box Awards for 2019. These awards dictate what I think have been the hits, misses and surprises of television in 2019…

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Channel of the Year: Channel Nine. It was just hit after hit after hit for Nine in 2019. They started the year with a bang with sensational seasons of ‘Married at First Sight’ and ‘Travel Guides’. They introduced us to the new juggernaut that is ‘LEGO Masters’ and gave us one hell of a series of ‘The Voice’ by bringing back past contestants and some familiar faces. ‘The Block’ killed it as always, while their rugby league broadcasts are the best in the business. Ê Best Aussie Reality Show: ‘Australian Survivor: Champions vs Contenders’. For the fourth consecutive year ‘Survivor’ on 10 has claimed this award. Just when you thought this show couldn’t get any better, producers delivered ten-fold. With an incredible cast and challenges to-boot, ‘Australian Survivor’ was once again this year’s runaway reality winner. Ê Surprise Hit of the Year: ‘LEGO Masters’. This ratings smash was the surprise packet of the year. No one predicted a show based around LEGO building could captivate a nation quite like it did. From the creativity of the contestants to Hamish Blake’s unique hosting style, this was a bloody darn good watch!

the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster only had five episodes, it was the quality of those episodes that had everyone talking. ‘Chernobyl’ has a 96 per cent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and in June became the highest-rated TV series of alltime on IMDB. Pure brilliance!

Ê Best Streaming Show: ‘The Loudest Voice’. Russell Crowe absolutely nailed his performance of former FOX News boss Roger Ailes. Crowe’s acting prowess was even rewarded with a recent Golden Globe nomination. This series also had me subscribing to Stan such was its hype. Ê Best Aussie Comedy: ‘Lunatics’. Slightly controversial choice I know but there was a serious lack of decent Aussie comedy on offer this year. While it wasn’t Chris Lilley’s best work, there were some

characters that had me crying with laughter like 12-year-old Gavin McGregor, DJ Quentin Cook and fashionista Keith Dick.

Ê Comeback of the Year: Jackie O. Following a string of television bombs, radio legend Jackie O finally had a hit with 10’s ‘The Masked Singer’. And it wasn’t just any hit either, ‘The Masked Singer’ was one of 2019’s highest rating shows and Jackie O was a huge part of its success. I’m already looking forward to season two! Ê Worst Shows of 2019: ‘Sunday Night Takeaway’, ‘Bad Mothers’, ‘Changing Rooms’, ‘Trial By Kyle’, ‘The Real Dirty Dancing’, ‘Australian Ninja Warrior’, ‘The Proposal’, ‘Saturday Night Rove’, ‘Love Island’, ‘The Super Switch’, ‘Today’, ‘NRL 360’ and everything on Pilot Week. WW37783

Ê Best International Drama: ‘Chernobyl’. With 19 Emmy and four Golden Globe nominations, ‘Chernobyl’ was the best international drama by a landslide. While the FOX Showcase series about

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the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

WEEKENDER LIVING PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

HOROSCOPES SAGITTARIUS BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOHO ASTRO

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE DAILY POSTS AT WWW.BOHOASTRO.COM TWITTER @JOMADELINEMOORE © JOANNE MADELINE MOORE 2019

AQUARIUS

PISCES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

With Venus visiting your sign, you’re in a festive frame of mind as you let your hair down and enjoy the Yuletide celebrations. For restless Aquarians, variety is the spice of life so the stars encourage you to balance being social with some quiet solo time where you can reflect on your goals for 2020. And avoid being a reckless Aquarian! The Solar Eclipse will increase your unpredictable side.

You’re in the mood for plenty of Yuletide cheer and holiday hijinks! Just make sure you pace yourself Pisces; then you’ll get through the celebrations without feeling totally exhausted by the end of the week. Venus also highlights your helpful humanitarian side. As Annie Lennox said: “Ask yourself – ‘Have I been kind today?’ Make kindness your daily modus operandi and change your world”.

ARIES MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

When it comes to Yuletide preparations, everyone wants to be in charge. Smart Rams will diplomatically delegate and let others initiate proceedings and share the load – for a change. Thursday’s Solar Eclipse suggests positive changes are brewing at work in 2020. Plus Jupiter sends professional luck and auspicious opportunities in your direction. So spend time formulating some fabulous goals.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Christmas Day finds most Taureans in a terrifically festive mood, as you let your hair down and enjoy the revelry. But, if you eat and drink too much, you’ll be grumpy on Boxing Day! This week the Solar Eclipse and planets are all moving through your travel and adventure zone. You need to start planning a trip or a new course of study, as you prepare to explore fresh pastures in 2020.

Sociable Geminis love to party and celebrate in style! So you’re in the mood for an extra magical and fun-filled festive season. This week’s Eclipse emphasises rebirth and transformation so don’t forget to make an extra special wish on Christmas, that will transport you into exciting new territory. As Henry Miller said: “One’s destination is never a place but rather a new way of looking at things”.

LEO

Clannish Cancer – you’re the sentimental keeper of the family flame, so be proactive about gathering the tribe together over the coming week. But there’s no getting away from intense interactions with recalcitrant relatives, as the Solar Eclipse revs up your relationship zone. Don’t be bossy and labour under the delusion that you can handle everything on your own!

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Avoid being overly controlling, as you rush around trying to organise everything. Slow down and enjoy the festive spirit of this special week. You’re the sensible soul of the zodiac so it’s up to you to handle Christmas celebrations with veritable Virgo composure and style. Be smart enough to rise above silly family squabbles! Thursday’s Solar Eclipse signals a fresh start involving someone.

With Venus in your party zone, Christmas Eve looks fabulous as you socialise with close friends and enjoy convivial conversation. Then the Solar Eclipse stirs up your domestic zone so additional tact is required mid-week, otherwise you could find yourself in the middle of a family feud. Do your best to help loved ones enjoy the Yuletide celebrations in a pleasant and peaceful way!

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Party-loving Sagittarians are in the mood for some fabulous festive fun, and you’re likely to overdo the Christmas cheer (again!) especially eating and drinking. If you slow down and pace yourself, then you’ll enjoy the celebrations even more. You’re also keen to bag some bargains at the post-Christmas sales but make sure you stay away from tempting buy now/ pay later schemes.

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Have you still got a heap of Christmas shopping to do? It’s time for lively Lions to look for gorgeous last-minute gifts that are colourful and creative. You certainly love the social side of Yuletide celebrations. Just make sure you’re pulling your weight otherwise you’ll be in the bad books on Boxing Day! Friday is one of your luckiest days of the year, when the Sun links up with Jupiter.

CAPRICORN

Mars is in Scorpio, so a strategic approach is the key to successful Christmas preparations. If you plan carefully and prioritise, then you’ll get everything done without too much unnecessary stress. But choose your words wisely, as the Solar Eclipse stimulates your communication zone. If you’re not careful, you could blurt out the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time!

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Keep things in perspective this Christmas. If you prioritise tasks, then you’ll get things done without too much stress. When it comes to loved ones, expect the unexpected. Whatever you think they will do, they’re likely to turn around and do the complete opposite. As Quentin Crisp said: “Treat all disasters as if they were trivialities, but never treat a triviality as if it were a disaster”.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

PET HEALTH

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Keeping our pets safe during busy fireworks season

ireworks may make us humans happy and excited but the same isn’t true for our furry friends. Just like thunderstorms, the loud, unexpected noises of fireworks can cause our pets extreme distress. It’s therefore important to create a safe, calm environment for them. This will prevent them from hurting themselves or becoming lost in panic. Prepare: Know when the fireworks night will commence and ensure your pet is in a safe and secure place a few hours before they start. Ensure your pet is exercised and well fed before the fireworks begin as this may help them de-stress, and be more inclined to nap once festivities begin Create a safe place: Pets can have a ‘flight’ response to unexpected noises, sometimes ending up kilometres from home in their panic. Because of this, pets should be kept indoors whenever possible, including rabbits and guinea pigs. Creating a calm, secure area for your

pet inside your house will also help them feel protected. Close the curtains and put familiar bedding in a small, confined hiding place. A laundry or bathroom is ideal. Otherwise, allow your pet to be with you while you play music or turn the television on to cover the sounds. Speak to your veterinarian early: If you are concerned about how your pet will cope speak to your veterinarian early! Short- term medications may help your pet but supervision is still recommended. Monitor for signs of stress: Staying home with your pet will help them feel comforted. If this isn’t possible, try to arrange overnight boarding at a kennel or veterinary hospital. When the noises begin, keep an eye out for subtle stress signs. Dogs may lick their lips, yawn or begin panting. Other signs may include vocalisation, heavy panting, shaking and shivering. If your pet does show signs that they are frightened, never raise your voice or punish him. Speak softly, stroke them, try to distract them, and reward calm behaviour with positive playtime and treats. A treat filled toy or filled Kong or favourite toy is a great distraction. Microchip and collars: If your pet does manage to escape, keeping microchip and registration details up to date is vital. A collar with identification is also a good idea.

What Christmas really means to all of us

t its heart, Christmas is a celebration. But a celebration of what? We say, “Happy Christmas”. We sing “Joy to the world”, but why should we be happy? What joy is there to sing about? At Christmas we remember the words of an angel to a startled bunch of shepherds on that first Christmas morning recorded for us in the Bible’s book of Luke; “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been to you; he is Christ the Lord”. Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth reveals two important things. Firstly, Luke anchors this event firmly in history. It is terribly sad when people jump on the bandwagon of dismissing Jesus’ existence without checking the facts. In Luke’s account we see real people in a real place at a real time. In other words, if you were there 2000

years ago you would have been just as startled as the shepherds! Be encouraged to carefully investigate the facts about Jesus for yourself. Secondly, Luke reveals the necessity for Jesus’ coming; Luke tells us that Jesus came as a “Saviour”. The reality is that our lives are out of step with God. We see it in our world. We see it in people around us. And if we’re honest, we see it in ourselves. The angel declares that Jesus has come to rescue us from the consequences of ignoring God and keeping him on the sidelines of our life. Jesus has come to give us new life with God when we put our faith and trust in Jesus. Therefore, we can say, “Happy Christmas”. Therefore, we can sing “Joy to the world”.

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How our day-to-day routine could be impacting our health and body – Carpel tunnel syndrome – Golfer’s elbow – Tennis elbow – Rotator cuff injuries If left untreated, a repetitive strain can hinder injuries sustained from healing, even after taking a long break from the cause. How can chiropractic help? If you are experiencing pain in your hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, backs or neck, consult a chiropractor for an assessment. Most people respond well to treatment and are able to return to their regular activities faster than waiting it out. Chiropractic care can restore healthy function to your spine and the related muscles and ligaments to get you moving again. Chiropractors can provide: Manual therapy: Your chiropractor will be able to utilise a treatment technique to help restore and regain motion within the joints related to your symptoms. Soft tissue therapy: Your chiropractor will also utilise soft tissue techniques to help relax and treat the tight and sore muscles related to your injury.

Exercise therapy/self - management: Your chiropractor will educate and provide the tips and right exercises that you can do at home to help prepare and prevent the repetitive cycle of a repetitive strain injury. Often, the treatment and education for repetitive strain includes making changes

to your workstation, taking breaks to relax overworked muscles and joints, and exercises to relieve stress and strengthen the affected parts of your body. For more information on how to treat a repetitive strain injury, visit or call One Point Health to start your journey of recovery.

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ften times, we take the necessary precautions and preparations to ensure we minimise the risk of sport injuries. Why then, are we not putting the same emphasis and importance in taking the same necessary precautions in our day- to- day routine? After all, our jobs are generally strenuous and put a strain on our bodies for many hours on a daily basis. What is a repetitive strain injury? Repetitive strain injury is typically caused by a gradual build- up of damage to muscles and joints exposed to repetitive vibrations, compression or even prolonged periods in a fixed position. Some common symptoms are numbness, tingling and burning sensations, swelling and aching pains. This injury affects a wide variety of people from athletes playing tennis or golf, to tradespeople (like jackhammer operators and assembly line workers). Other common occupations related to these injuries are computing, driving, knitting and musicians. Common types of repetitive strain injuries:

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

TRAVEL

An extraordinary adventure like no other: Experience the isolation and magnificence

ALICE SPRINGS Words Ellen Hill Photo David Hill More Info outbackballooning. com.au

eing caught between the cusp of a new day and the last flickers of night is like witnessing two of nature’s most intimate acts – birth and death. Secret and mysterious, only a select few are privy to its glory. Today, we are that select few, a group of strangers pressed together in a wicker basket like sardines in a can, suspended 1000ft above the ground on the outskirts of Alice Springs, smack bang in the centre of Australia. In the pre- dawn silence when the nocturnal animals have bedded down before the birds awake, the sun sends tentative golden strands across the red dirt until it glows like an ember. Its radiant tentacles stretch out slowly as they have done for millennia, highlighting desert features of oaks and mulga scrub, rock wallabies and craggy outcrops. On the opposite horizon a sleepy full moon melts down like an egg yolk behind the rugged outline of the MacDonnell Ranges, leaving the sky silvery blue in its wake. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and the 30m tall balloon with its cargo of Outback Ballooning Alice Springs passengers is carried along with it. Hot air balloons are the most basic of aircraft. But all fears and concerns for the world below and the flimsiness of our craft have whooshed above our heads as the pilot pumps the burners to send jets of orange, blue and white hot propane fuel into the balloon. We float aimlessly through the first heaven, unaware of our progress. There is no airspeed, no aerodynamic lift, no vibration and no wind noise. We cannot pitch or roll. The G- free experience is like gently levitating rather than flying. My seven-year-old son, almost too terrified to join the flight, pops his head up from the base of the basket to get a better

look at the unfolding palette before us. He remains there mesmerised until the basket scrapes the top of a tree on its final descent back to terra firma. Out here, the ranges are no fuzzy-topped mountains emanating a soothing blue haze but a jumbled stretch of rocky outcrops and hills that appear much larger and further away than they really are because the pathetic scrub is no more than a few patches of scrub and that accursed spiky buffel grass. This is one of the most isolated and arid places on Earth, a place where you can wander far into the horizon and not see another soul. A place where all there is for company is the melancholy “Ark, Ark, Aaaah” of a lone crow, the crunch of

your feet in the never-ending dirt and the gentle wail of the breeze. Where the sun beats down so hard it feels like it’s pushing you into the rock hard earth. Reality hits as the basket bumps and scrapes along the ground, sending puffs of ochre coloured dirt into the air. We hadn’t even noticed our descent. Still trapped in the romance of the experience, we tumble awkwardly from the basket and stomp our boots on the dirt. Reality hits when we’re summoned to help the crew pack up the nylon balloon into its bag before breakfast and a glass of sparkling Australian wine or juice. To book this incredible outback adventure, visit www.outbackballooning.com. au.

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Make a New Year’s resolution that could save somebody’s life

hristmas is nearly here, with the New Year to follow closely behind! Maybe this year, rather than the usual “eat and drink less, go to the gym more, pay off post Xmas debt” promises, we could all commit to some Water Safety resolutions? Five people drowned in less than 24 hours on New Year’s Day last year across Australia – please, let’s do better this year. Supervise – Keep Watch! 965 children aged 0- 4 years drowned in Australia between July 1 1993 and June 30 2018. A lapse in adult supervision was the major risk factor in 100 per cent of toddler drowning deaths. Of the 19 children under four who drowned in Australia last year, 12 did so in swimming pools. Don’t be distracted when with children around water – nothing is more important than their safety. Put the phone down, and enjoy this precious time in the sun. Watch children in the bath, and empty eskies and portable pools – children can drown in only a tiny amount of water. Learn To Swim. Every water safety education program has a common

message – learn to swim – from babies to children to adults. Make 2020 your year to learn, and/or to get your kids into lessons.

Fence the pool and shut the gate. Accidental falls into water remain the leading activity prior to drowning among children

under five. Barriers provide an extra layer of protection, but are never a substitute for constant adult supervision. Watch your mate – don’t let your mates drink and drown. The message is simple: wear a lifejacket when on the river, avoid consumption of alcohol and drugs around water and never swim alone. Respect the river. We are very lucky to live so near to the beautiful Nepean River, however the flat, still surface of an inland waterway can give a false sense of security, and currents, undertows or submerged objects can prove to be very dangerous. Learn CPR and educate children about water safety. Would you know what to do in an emergency? If the answer is no, make it your resolution to learn CPR in 2020. Have we visited your child’s school or pre- school to talk about water safety? If the answer is no, just contact me to book a free visit in. Wishing everyone a very safe and happy festive season, and a wonderful 2020 – see you next year!

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

PSYCHIC CONNECTIONS

ALLAN HAMLIN ALLAN.HAMLIN@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU WWW.ALLANHAMLIN.COM.AU

Connecting with the world of Spirit to provide comfort and answers I am wanting to connect with Margaret. Emily, St Clair Initially, Margaret indicated to me that she needs me to respect her privacy as I begin this reading. I feel that she wanted to be alone or was shunning company at the end of her journey as a way of adapting to the circumstances she faced. There is another presence with Margaret and it is of a very young child and she wants to let you know that this child is safe. The family have moved forward but they certainly have never forgotten these people in spirit that you all loved. This child’s energy is very strong and is often present around you. I also feel that you have saved hair and made prints of the hands and feet of this child and that these items are still cherished memories. Margaret is an interesting energy, she is not speaking but just pointing and ordering me around and even though I sense that she is a very nice person, she is very opinionated and insistent on always being right.

There seems to be a little bit of mystery around her passing which may be connected to a doctor’s report and the circumstances of her passing that may have been questioned. She does not wish to hold on to that memory but she is a straight talker and shows me these events just to demonstrate that she has moved on now. March 4 or 24 is a date she highlights on the calendar and says “please take the trip”. You may have a thought of travelling to New Zealand or Fiji to catch up with friends. If possible, take her ring with you, as it will keep you safe. The name “Rose” or “Rosie” is important to her and she says that you or the family have appeared in the papers. Keep being honest and up front in all you do and that will bring the best kind of people to you who will reciprocate that kind of friendship. The child in Spirit is coming back to be with the family again, so please let them know that the child will be staying the ‘second time’ around. What joy that will bring!

I would like to connect with my grandmother Franchesca. Marie, Orchard Hills I sense you are from a very successful family! A close bond exists between your parents and yourself and I feel you may come from a long line of women in your family named Mary. A name sounding similar to “Carmel” or “Carmen” also links me into your grandparents and they speak of a great career energy that opens up around you next year. Coming into your life very soon are the career areas of law enforcement, policing or legal work which will be and remain an influence that determines your future relationships very strongly and for an extended time frame. As I link with your family in Spirit I hear them say “I wish we could be with you”. Your family is a closely-knit group that treats its elderly family members with respect and care. As I link with your grandmother’s energy I begin to feel pain behind my eyes and ears and I sense migraines or vascular problems in her head that could have played a part in

the passing. She has been watching you dance and lifts up her legs to say that she can now do it too! A man with a great sense of humour comes in with your grandmother, and he likes to compliment the three of you, which is a reference to you and your siblings. When this man passed away he was in bed and may have been bed bound for some time. He presses his stomach and says, “it’s too late” which implies that his treatment options had passed him by. This man goes on to say ‘Don’t change a thing about your plans for savings and housing’ as he is adamant about you being safe and secure. Like all grandparents he tells me to tell you “she’s too skinny” and then he laughs! Your grandmother Franchesca shows show me a birth mark or scar that you carry on your body and it may represent what she calls “an angel mark” or a “sign from God”. She has an idealised, loving appreciation the of Angels and hopes you do too. Even in the Spirit World your family present themselves as a loving group.

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Friday, December 20, 2019 « the western weekender

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Friday, December 20, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

o, what is drag racing? Put simply, drag racing is a competitive race between two vehicles. It is also the most spectacular motorsport on Earth. You don’t just watch drag racing, you experience it – and

it is back on January 17 and 18 at Sydney Dragway with the Santo’s Summer Thunder. The first thing that grabs your attention is the sheer size of the cars. Almost 10 metres from end to end, with huge wings

at either end (to keep the cars planted to the race track at insane speed) and rear tyres that stand almost one metre tall – they are an intimidating sight. But that is before the engines start. Once fired, the noise is what grabs your immediate attention, like a rock concert on steroids. On a single trip down the race track these cars consume almost 90 litres of fuel which converts to 20,250 litres per hundred kilometres. Definitely not your daily driver. The blend of race fuel that these fire-breathing beasts consume is a blend of nitromethane and methanol – a potent mix that is a big contributor as to how these cars produce over 12,000 horsepower (or the equivalent of around 20 V8 Supercars) each. The burnout is only a taste of what is to come as these land-based missiles warm their tyres. Despite creating plumes of tyre smoke, the accelerator is only opened to around 10-20 per cent of capacity in the burnout, yet still unleashing mountains of horsepower for their pre-race ritual. As the drivers prepare for their run, each crew of between 10 and 15 members work in a co-ordinated orchestra of precision and timing. Each crew member has specific duties that they must perform to ensure maximum performance from the car and the safety of the drivers. The first launch that you ever witness from a Top Fuel Dragster is something that you will never, ever forget. The noise

is indescribable. The exhaust flames are impressive. But it is the shockwave of vibration that is most impressive – it hits you like a punch in the stomach. You literally feel the cars move away from the start line – accelerating to over 100km/h in eight tenths of a second (that is not a typo). Before your brain can process what your eyes are seeing, the cars have accelerated to over 400km/h by the 200 metre point of the race track in just over three seconds. As the cars cross the finish line side by side at 500km/h, the driver deploys the dual parachutes that are required to stop the cars – meaning deceleration from +3G to negative 5G in around six-tenths of a second. At launch it is eyeballs in, and when the chutes hit it is eyeballs out! If everything goes to plan and no major mechanical faults occur, the single 3.8 second run down the track will cost between $10–15,000 in fuel and parts. The crew will then go to work, completely re-building the engines and drivetrain in around two hours – ready for the next run down the race track. There is no sport quite like drag racing – and if you don’t believe what you have read here, see it for yourself as drivers from around the world return to the 400 Thunder Series at Sydney Dragway on January 17 and 18 for the Santo’s Summer Thunder. Tickets are on sale now at www. sydneydragway.com.au or are available at the gate. Kids under 12 are free!

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Friday, December 20, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

SPORT

SPORTS STAR

Bryan skates to big award p.76

New recruit is eager to impress NATHAN TAYLOR

Kurt Capewell is one of Penrith’s big off-season signings.

hen new Penrith recruit Kurt Capewell wakes up each morning and pulls open his curtains to let some light in, the first thing he sees outside his window is the famed Panthers Rugby League Academy. Since his arrival last month from the Cronulla Sharks, Capewell has made the Mercure Hotel at Panthers Leagues Club his temporary home as looks for more permanent accommodation. Not only does Capewell appreciate living so close to the Academy that he can walk to work each day, he also enjoys the luxuries of staying in a four-star hotel like free breakfast and housekeeping. “It’s really helped me settle in and living next door to training makes it easy in the mornings,” Capewell told the Weekender. “I’ve got a view of the Academy, so I wake up in the morning, open the curtains and see the glorious field heating up. “I then pop over to the Leagues Club for a quick breakfast at 6.30am before heading over to training.” While Capewell hopes to find a new place to live before Christmas, he will miss having his bed made and towels replaced every few days. “I put the ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door so I don’t have housekeeping come

around every day, I get them to make up my room every second day,” he admitted. “The staff are nice and friendly but, being so close to training, it can feel like you don’t get away from the place. I’ll hopefully have a new place in time for Christmas.” Along with Manly’s Api Koroisau and Rooster Zane Tetevano, Capewell was one of Penrith’s major off- season signings. Following a hugely successful four years at the Sharks, the talented utility is excited for a new challenge. “Ivan and Baz (Trent Barrett) are great coaches and we have some great staff here as well. I think we can do big things, it’s a great opportunity for me,” Capewell said. Panthers coach Ivan Cleary had been chasing Capewell’s signature since his stint at the Wests Tigers, but he finally managed to land the 26-year-old after the Sharks could no longer afford to keep him. “The Sharks asked for some time because they were trying to sort out their cap... but it came to a stage where I needed to make a decision,” Capewell said. “Knowing Ivan’s chased me a couple of times is great, it gives you confidence. He obviously sees potential in me and thinks he can help my game. “The Sharks will forever hold a spot in my heart, but my main goal now is to win a Premiership with Penrith and better myself.”

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AWARDS

Hard work and dedication earns Bryan huge honour “At the Masters Games Bryan and I came second in Pairs, it was also his very first figure skating competition,” she revealed. “Myself, our amazing coach Katherine Chong O’Neil and our skating community are all extremely proud of Bryan, not only for his success at the Masters Games but for his continual achievements and the dedication he puts into his training and for always helping others.” Bryan and Louise train regularly at Penrith Ice Palace in Jamisontown. The pair will continue in the sport in 2020 and are hoping to add even more achievements to what is likely to be a growing list over the next few years. Bryan Grayson’s Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Panthers World of Entertainment. If you or someone you know has achieved something special in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. There are three categories to be nominated in via the Foundation: Reach for the Sky (up to 10 years); Junior Sports Star (11-16 years); and Senior Sports Star (over 16 years). Nomination forms are available at www. pvsf.org.au, along with more information about the Foundation.

NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith Valley Figure Skating Club member Bryan Grayson is proving you can teach an old dog new tricks as he becomes the latest recipient of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation (PVSF) Senior Sports Star Award. The 58- year- old’s wife, fellow figure skater Louise Grayson, nominated her husband for the monthly sporting award. She said Bryan only took up the hugely challenging sport of figure skating in the last 12 months. “Bryan bravely has gone from speed skating and hockey skates to now embracing figure skating, which is a huge achievement in itself,” she said. “Bryan trains extremely hard and is always so friendly to everyone at the rink.” After just a year wearing figure skates, Bryan took his newfound talent to Adelaide in October to compete at the 17th Australian Masters Games, a national competition for mature aged athletes. Bryan competed alongside his wife, who is also his figure skating partner. Louise said skating alongside her husband in the Pairs event was one of the highlights of her life.

Louise and Bryan Grayson. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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Strong first-up win Thunder hang tough to record impressive Big Bash victory Callum Ferguson and England’s heavy hitting Alex Hales on his roster, he praised the all-round nature of the Thunder’s squad as its strength. “We have a fantastic squad,” he said. “Our goal is to win the tournament, and we think we have the squad capable of doing it.” Ferguson, who has been a member of the Thunder since 2017, said the quality of this year’s squad was the result of “a lot of hard work” and astute recruitment. “We’ve managed to bring in two overseas players including South African Chris Morris and Alex Hales from England… a fantastic player,” he said. “We also have Alex Ross from the Brisbane Heat; fast bowler Brendan Doggett is here, also from the Heat. He’ll have opponents jumping as if they’re on a hot tin roof, and Chris Tremain has returned to the Thunder from the Melbourne Renegades.” The Thunder will play their first ‘home’ game of the season tomorrow night against Adelaide in Canberra, while their first game at Sydney Olympic Park will be played on Thursday, January 2 against the Melbourne Stars.

NATHAN TAYLOR

he Sydney Thunder are off to a strong start in this year’s Big Bash League (BBL) after defeating Brisbane by 29 runs in Tuesday night’s season opener. Playing in front of nearly 30,000 fans at the Gabba, the Thunder batted first and scored a respectable 6/172 after 20 overs. When Brisbane began their chase, they lost some early wickets and were unable to recover. They were eventually dismissed with four balls to spare on 143. The Thunder, who missed the finals last year, have built a relatively strong squad this season, with second- year coach Shane Bond confident with the depth of talent at his disposal. “I’m very excited about this season, we’re ready to go,” Bond said. “It’s always nice to be in a position where it doesn’t matter who – out of the 18 in the squad – you put on the field, you feel as though you’re capable of winning games.” While Bond has several big names including Usman Khawaja, skipper

Thunder opener Usman Khawaja.

Wanderers may look to move Babbel on Story continued from » p. 80 In the report Lederer said: “Our expectation is to win [the A-League]. This team has the calibre, the quality to be right at the top and we are not doing it. As far as lacking the players, we are not. I would not change our squad for any other squad. If you look at our bench, those players could play for any team.” Lederer wouldn’t blame Babbel publicly for the side’s poor form but did admit recent results put him “under massive pressure”. Meanwhile, the Herald also reported that several club sources have suggested that assistant coach Jean- Paul de Marigny has caused a rift throughout the club and allegedly undermined Babbel. Sources also suggest de Marigny is after Babbel’s job if it becomes available. Following last Saturday night’s loss to the Glory in Perth, Babbel appeared lost for words trying to explain his side’s 2-0 defeat. “It’s a big disappointment because we had so much ball possession… we were dangerous a couple of times but couldn’t score,” he said. “It’s hard to accept but the boys tried everything.” The Wanderers will finally return home to Bankwest Stadium tonight to face A- League newcomers Western United.

the western weekender » Friday, December 20, 2019

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America comes calling for talented local kicker NATHAN TAYLOR

mu Plains teenager Jeremy Crawshaw will swap the mighty Nepean River for the swamps of Florida next month after earning a four- year scholarship to play American Football. The 18- year- old officially became a student and player of the University of Florida this week after signing the necessary paperwork to complete the deal. Crawshaw, a punter, was bestowed the incredible opportunity after impressing coaches of the Florida Gators with his monster boot and pin-point accuracy. The former Nepean CAPA High School student landed the scholarship recently with help of Prokick Australia, a Melbourne - based program highly respected in the US for developing punters and kickers. “I moved to Melbourne in January and for the past year have trained with the team at Prokick Australia,” Crawshaw told the Weekender. “They film you kicking and then send the footage off to various schools in the US to see if they are interested in you or not.” Crawshaw’s highlight reel had Gators coaching staff salivating and they quickly

arranged a FaceTime call to meet their potential new punter. “It was pretty crazy, I stayed up late due to the time zone difference,” Crawshaw said. “I ended up chatting with the head coach and special teams coach and they offered me a full scholarship right then and there. “When they hung up it was a weird moment, I couldn’t believe I just spoke to people across the world who I never met before and they offered me a full scholarship to play on one of the biggest stages in the world. I was in pure shock.” When Crawshaw arrives in Gainesville in the new year he’ll certainly have his work cut out of him. Not only will he be studying Physiology and Kinesiology in the classroom, but he’ll also be learning the ins and outs of a complicated sport that he’s never played before in his life. Crawshaw discovered he had a strong boot on him after playing Aussie Rules for several years with the Emu Plains/ Glenmore Park Lions Junior AFL Club. “I realised I had a strong kick on me when I started playing AFL with the Lions in 2015,” he said. “The Americans love an AFL background, we can kick the ball long and high and are very accurate with our kicks.”

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Around the grounds CRICKET: Penrith are on their way to a double innings victory against Blacktown Mounties in Round 8 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Blacktown won the toss and elected to bat first. Penrith were on fire with the ball, dismissing the home side for just 83 runs. Ryan Smith was the best of the bowlers taking 5/30. When Penrith hit the crease later that day, they reached Blacktown’s total with ease declaring on 2/111. Due to the first innings finishing so early, Blacktown Mounties batted for a second innings and were 3/85 at stumps. Play will resume this Saturday morning with Blacktown at the crease. CRICKET: Round 10 of the Nepean District Cricket Association is in the books, with Panthers Cricket Club winning just a single match. In first grade, Panthers 6/202 went down to St Clair 5/203. In third grade, Panthers 10/117 defeated St Marys Leagues 10/76. In sixth grade, St Marys beat Panthers. In ninth grade, Panthers 10/84 couldn’t get past Emu Plains 5/87.

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BMX: Congratulations to Penrith BMX Club riders Nicola Fleming, Danielle Fleming, James Paterson and Callagan Wilson who recently began their scholarships after being accepted into Western Sydney Academy of Sport’s Heartland Motors Lone Star program. The program, in partnership with Western Sydney University, is a fantastic opportunity that aims to prepare Penrith BMX’s talented young

athletes for progression to higher levels of individual performance and achievement on and off the track. Meanwhile, Penrith BMX are celebrating after they were named the number one club in the National Series for 2019. BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers first grade team have enjoyed a mixed round of results against Blacktown in Round 13 of the NSW State Baseball League competition. In the mid-week game, Penrith went down to Blacktown 3-0, while in the weekend match, Penrith defeated Blacktown 8-6. The Panthers and the rest of the competition will enjoy a month off for the Christmas and New Year break before resuming with Round 14 matches on January 15. GRIDIRON: The Nepean Ducks fought hard but ultimately went down to the UTS Gators 28-24 in last Saturday’s Gridiron NSW Kookaburra Bowl. Playing in their first ever Championship game, Nepean’s Colts team scored the opening touchdown of the match but were unable to hang on against a team chasing back to back titles. Y-LEAGUE: The Western Sydney Wanderers have played out an entertaining 0-0 draw against the Newcastle Jets in Round 5 of the Y-League. The result means the Wanderers remain in fourth place on the Y-League Conference B table. Western Sydney will enjoy a bye in Round 6 before taking on Canberra United after Christmas on December 28.

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ollowing the club’s fifth straight defeat, pressure is mounting on Wanderers coach Markus Babbel to either shape up or ship out. Passionate Wanderers supporters have turned to social media to vent their frustration after Western Sydney suffered yet another painful loss, this time at the hands of Perth Glory last Saturday night. While Babbel has an abundance of passion for the club, he is copping widespread criticism for certain player selections, ineffective game plans and sounding like a broken record in post-match press conferences. According to a recent report in the Sydney Morning Herald, Wanderers co- owner and chairman Paul Lederer was due to meet with Babbel this week to discuss the season thus far. It is unlikely to be a happy meeting with constant rumours suggesting Babbel may not keep his job next season. Western Sydney led the A-League after the first month of competition but have since fallen out of the top six after five consecutive defeats. Story continues on » p. 77

WSW coaches Labinot Haliti, Markus Babbel and Jean-Paul de Marigny. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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