Western Weekender October 21 2022

Sean Cade.

Melinda Jane.

Lucky Door Prize drawn at 7:30pm. RSVP and attend in person to be eligible to win a pink diamond.

Expert’s top snake

How to avoid a nasty bite as snake season continues

EMILY FESZCZUK

While it might not feel like spring has sprung with all the wet weather, it is snake season once again and locals should be prepared to see them slithering around town.

Owner of Australian Snake Catch ers Sean Cade is receiving six to 10 calls some days, partly attributing the increase to La Niña.

“There are less when it’s wet because it is naturally colder but

when there are nice clearer days that are warmer, they come out in an influx as they have had a couple of days’ inactivity and all want to get out,” Mr Cade told the Weekender

“If there is a week of good weather they will pick and choose when they come out so there won’t be as many, but people should expect to see them around paths such as Nepean River because the concrete is nice and warm.”

The St Clair resident said the best advice if you sight a snake is to leave it alone.

“Eastern Brown and Red Bellied snakes are the most common, but the Yellow Faced Whip Snakes are often around Glenmore Park as well,” Mr Cade said.

“Whether it is on your walk, in the bush or in your backyard don’t approach any snake. Leave it alone, don’t touch it and call the profes sionals if you need it removed.”

Trying to interfere with the reptiles could result in an unwanted and serious bite.

“Some snakes are more timid and retreat quicker but if you put enough pressure on any snake it will turn around and defend itself, and they defend themselves with their mouths,” Mr Cade said.

“Dogs should also be on leashes when out and about because they could approach what they think is a lizard, but it is actually a snake.”

While snakes will be out searching for food and mates during this period, Mr Cade said people can prepare to prevent unwanted visi tors.

“There is nothing to stop them completely but if you keep your yard tidy and free of debris that helps, as they like to be in firewood near houses after winter,” he said.

“People have water bowls at their back doors for pets but, coming into summer, if it’s a warm day a snake will drink from them, so moving them out will stop them coming close to your house.”

If you are bitten by a snake, Mr Cade recommends pressure and immobilisation, and says it’s impor tant to stay calm.

“If it is a bite, scratch or you are not sure, use a compression bandage if you have one and ring Triple Zero because you would rather be safe than sorry,” he said.

“If you don’t have a bandage keep the patient as calm and still to prevent the venom spreading and call Triple Zero to get emergency help straight away.”

Sean Cade has more than 20 years’ experience. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Locals should be alert for snakes when out and about. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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Troy Dodds

Sport’s modern conundrum

Sport and money were always destined to collide. That’s just how things roll.

But when Dally Messenger switched codes to help form rugby league in Australia in 1908, or when cricket became England’s national sport in the 18th century, I doubt anyone could have predicted the influence money and business would have over sport ing codes that it does today.

They certainly could never have imagined the position sporting administrators find themselves in – managing the delicate balance between sponsorship dollars and what’s deemed ‘right’ by the very partici pants in the sport.

This week, both netball and cricket have found themselves in very similar positions.

Netball, facing financial struggles at the top level of late, found a financial shot in the arm of sorts in the shape of mining company Hancock Prospecting, which put a $15 million sponsorship on the table.

But the deal turned problematic when rookie Donnell Wallam spoke up, unsettled about the arrangement given the company’s history in the Indigenous space.

Hancock Prospecting founder Lang Hancock infamously proposed in 1984 that some Indigenous people be sterilised to “breed themselves out”.

That was almost 40 years ago. Lang Hancock has been dead for three decades and one can safely say those comments do not align with the company today.

But it’s not the only cloud hanging over the deal, with former Australian captain Sharni Norder claiming it’s against the values of the team to align with Hancock Prospecting, given the climate change views of owner, and Lang’s daughter, Gina Rinehart.

Pioneer Sail Holdings, has been listed as one of Australia’s highest carbon emitters.

Never before has what logo sits across the front of a jersey been so problematic.

Minus a few notable issues in the past of players not wanting to wear certain sponsor ship logos due to various cultural or religious beliefs, players have generally chosen to toe-the-line when it comes to the bigger picture of who sponsors the team they play for. Not so much anymore, it seems.

Rugby league was very much in the spot light in this space just a few months ago, when seven Manly players chose not to play against the Sydney Roosters because their club dared put rainbow colours on the front of its jersey in the name of equality, pride and inclusion.

Will Cummins sacrifice a portion of his wage if Cricket Australia can’t find a replace ment for Alinta’s $40 million?

Perhaps the answer to both those questions is yes, and if so, bravo. I doubt it though.

Again, this is not a criticism of Wallam or Cummins. I am not suggesting they don’t have a right to use their platform to push for change in areas they believe are crying out for more attention and repair.

But players having a say on who can and can’t sponsor a team is a dangerous can of worms.

It’s akin to a journalist asking the Week ender not to accept advertisements from a particular company because their personal beliefs don’t align with that of the business. That same advertiser, however, pays their wage and may not be so easy to replace.

Nobody has ever suggested an ad that appears beneath a story written by a jour nalist suggests that journalist backs that company.

And I don’t know about you, but I’ve never connected the individual with the sponsor when it comes to team jerseys, either.

I didn’t necessarily think Craig Gower had a SANYO TV in his lounge room back in 2003 and I’m not convinced Dylan Edwards is big on strawberry milk.

Nor would I blame Pat Cummins if I signed up with Alinta Energy and got stung with an unimpressive bill.

Nobody is suggesting Wallam or Cummins should simply shut up and play sport, or Sea Eagles players don’t have a right to voice their concerns, warped as they may be.

I know, it’s not that simple.

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.

And it’s climate change that has Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins in the news this week too, after revelations he spoke with Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley about his ethical objections to energy company Alinta’s sponsorship of the team.

According to media reports, the concerns of Cummins and other members of the Australian cricket team primarily related to the fact that Alinta’s parent company,

Index

MISSING A FATHER OR TRYING TO BE A BETTER DAD?

Many have found the ideas in this book helpful.

The purpose and motive to live aright can be gained now. This point won, you have started as you should. You have begun at the numeration-table of Christian Science, and nothing but wrong intention can hinder your advancement. Working and praying with true motives,

Father

open the way.(SH

Many would say it’s something to be proud of that our sporting stars have the strength of their convictions and are so passionate about issues that they can voice them publicly.

But when do you cross the line and how much are you willing to sacrifice for those beliefs?

The “sisters in arms” mentality of the Diamonds, in support of Wallam, is an impressive display of team unity but how unified will they be if netball’s financial woes continue and they need to take a significant pay cut moving forward?

But for years corporate Australia has been asked to be very forgiving when it comes to sport and problems on and off the field, especially in cricket and rugby league.

And it largely has, continuing to pour cash into sport because they see the bigger picture. Sometimes, I’m not sure the players can see that same picture.

What’s becoming more and more obvious is that sporting codes are going to have to decide just how much weight their players have when it comes to corporate decisions.

And if they choose to listen, then how far do you go? Where does the line get drawn regarding what’s OK and what’s not?

Welcome to sport in 2022.

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

“Corporate Australia has been asked to be very forgiving when it comes to sport and problems on and off the field”

The staggering figure Penrith locals have lost on the pokies

EMILY FESZCZUK

Facial recognition technology will be rolled out in pubs and clubs across NSW from next year to help combat problem gambling.

The announcement comes during GambleAware Week (October 17-23) when people are encouraged to pause and think about how gambling may be impacting them or their loved ones.

Data from Liquor and Gaming NSW shows that $143,598,697 net profit was made in 2021 from gaming machines in the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA).

Minister for Hospitality and Racing, Kevin Anderson said the theme of this week – What’s gambling costing you? – asks people to think about the impacts other than money.

“These are the often-hidden costs which can slowly creep up on gamblers before they find they’re in serious trouble,” Mr Anderson said.

“Help through GambleAware is tailored to the needs and circumstances of an individual. There are now more ways than ever to have a bet with the rise of online gambling, sports betting and other emerging markets.”

The NSW Gambling Survey showed that 62 per cent of clients that access GambleAware services in Penrith LGA prefer poker machines while 10 per cent have a gambling activity of

sports betting.

part of the Multi-Venue Self-Exclusion scheme that prevents problem gamblers who have identified themselves from entering gaming areas.

The technology will scan the person’s face and match it to the system of people who have consented to being included before alerting staff at the venue, who will intervene and prevent gambling.

A recent survey found 85 per cent of self-ex cluded problem gamblers support facial recognition to identify self-excluded people, with the vast majority of those surveyed comfortable with it being used to enforce venue exclusion.

ClubsNSW CEO Josh Landis said close to 100 clubs around the state are successfully using the technology which will become state-wide.

“Clubs have a demonstrated commitment to protecting their members and patrons from gambling harm and this technology will take the world-leading Multi-Venue Self-Exclusion program to the next level,” he said.

“Those that have been proactive in choosing to self-exclude from the gaming rooms of clubs and pubs will now have extra support from our industry to make sure they maintain their resolve and stay out of harm’s way. That’s something we can be very proud of.”

The technology will have strict privacy protections in place with licensed venues unable to access the data. It will only include patrons who opt to self-exclude.

The GambleAware phoneline 1800 858 858 is open 24 hours a day for anyone needing support. It is free and confidential.

The state-of-the-art system that will be jointly implemented by Australian Hotels Association NSW and ClubsNSW is a major

Poker machine use continues to be high in Penrith.

State Government monitoring trials that could see bans lifted in near future Warning over e-scooters

EMILY FESZCZUK

The interest in electric scooters is quickly rising as people look for more economical and environmentally friendly methods of transport.

While it seems like a good idea to get around, people may be unaware that they are illegal in public areas and they could potentially be slapped with thousands of dollars in fines.

Private e-scooters are banned from public places in NSW but they may be used on private land and roads.

As they are classed as a motor vehicle under the Road Transport Act 2013, riders could be fined $723 for having an unregistered motor vehicle on the roads.

A fine of $603 may apply for driving on a road without being licenced and a fine of $723 would be added for not being insured.

Nathan Vandepol from 99 Bikes said the Penrith store educates people on the rules daily as they have been receiving multiple enquiries each week.

“E-scooters are what we class as a special order item, so we don’t stock them on the floor because we want to educate people that you can’t insure or register them as they don’t meet the safety standards, but if you use them in public, you are opening yourself up to a lot of fines,” he said.

“People ask why electric bikes are legal but not electric scooters, which is because on a bike you are still peddling for the motor to be engaged, but with a scooter you can just hit the accelerator and go quite fast.”

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said shared-scheme e-scooter trials are currently taking place in Western Sydney Parklands and the Australian Botanic Gardens where the e-scooters are speed limited and geo-fenced, which means they will not operate outside the approved areas.

“The NSW Government is closely moni toring the progress of the trials, looking at safety, usage and community feedback,” the

spokesperson said.

“Once complete, the NSW Government will then consider the future of e-scooter use in our State.”

If used appropriately and with regulations, Mr Vandepol believes they would be popular around Penrith.

“I think they would be great to go to the shops or even if you worked close to home and

it would be less congestion on the roads,” he said.

“If they allow it, I think third party insurance like you can get for bikes or e-bikes is impor tant in case you are involved in an accident.”

Glenmore Park resident Natasha Whiting also believes e-scooters should be regulated after she bought one a few years ago to use in a caravan park while on holidays each year.

“They are so much fun and so convenient, so I think the rules should change,” Ms Whiting said.

“They are safe as long as the person riding it does the right thing but that is the same as someone riding a push bike or driving a car.”

Do you think e-scooters should be allowed on public roads? Email your thoughts to news@westernweekender.com.au.

Tax time deadline approaching

CASSIDY PEARCE

With the deadline for 2021–22 tax returns just over a week away, the Australian Tax Office is encour aging taxpayers not to leave it until the last minute, by doing it yourself online, or getting in contact with a tax agent.

Though lodging your tax return with a tax agent does buy you a little extra time, Matt Free from A Grade Tax Penrith said that the October 31 deadline is just as important.

“The deadline for people who don’t lodge through a tax agent is at the end of the month, on October 31,” he said.

“If you go through an agent, such as A Grade Tax, you can get an extension until May 15 next year to do your tax – but you have to have seen the tax agent before October 31 to get on that extension list.”

For those with a simple return, the free myTax service will have you done and dusted in under 30 minutes.

But, for first-timers or those with a more complex return, seeing a tax agent may be the best option.

“The tax system doesn’t make it easy for

people who have more complex affairs to do the return themselves – it can be a bit daunt ing not knowing what boxes to tick or what information to put in an online form,” he said.

“If you’re not comfortable answering the questions, or you have dramas or problems answering the questions online, definitely

go and see someone who can help you. That way, you’ll still get your return lodged, you get a bit longer to do it, and the people at A Grade Tax or other accountants can give you a bit of advice along the way on what is best to claim, and what your options are with claiming deductions.”

Whether you’re doing it on your own or going to a tax agent, it’s important to know what to claim. For many, working from home expenses may be the big-ticket item.

“As a tax agent, we can get records of most taxpayers’ incomes from the ATO each year, it’s just the discretionary spending that we don’t know about, they’re the work-related deductions that people may spend,” Mr Free said.

“Particularly working from home, that’s been popular.

“For the last 12 months, try to have good records of what you spent at home – comput ers, printers, cartridges, paper, electricity costs, hours you’ve been working at home. There’s definitely some things you can claim there if you did work from home.

“I’d encourage people for the current tax year we’re in to keep all of your receipts, whether you think you can claim them or not. If in doubt, you can see a tax agent and they’ll help you out and let you know whether that’s something you can claim.

“If you use your car for work, if you haven’t already done so, start a logbook that you can claim your business usage of all your running costs.”

Nathan Vandepol from 99 Bikes educates people about electric scooters. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Matt Free from A Grade Tax Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

First sod turned as Council eyes 2023 opening for our City

EMILY FESZCZUK

The first sod has been turned as work gets underway to transform the centre of Penrith into City Park.

The 7,000 square metre park on the corner of Henry and Station streets, which is set to open in 2023, will be a green space for all to enjoy – where people can meet, eat, be active and connect together.

While some have criticised the concept, Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said busi nesses in the area will benefit from posi tive flow on effects as the park will draw more people to Penrith’s CBD.

“City Park will stimulate the local day and night time economy by encouraging people to venture further into the CBD and discover all the fantastic shops, cafés and restaurants on offer,” she said.

“Its prime position opposite Westfield, in the City Centre, and a short walk from the station makes it the perfect spot to meet up, relax, be entertained, get active and hold community events.”

The space will feature a central lawn with significant tree canopy cover, themed gardens, public artwork, shaded areas, water elements including misting clusters and ponds, amenities building with green roof, seating, and civic area.

ROBAR, Max

“Forever Loved”

Penrith City Council is contributing $12.6 million towards the project and $4 million is being funded by the NSW Government through the Public Spaces Legacy Program.

City Park is about creating a public amenity and share open space according to Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, who was part of the sod turning and welcomed the progress.

“As Penrith continues to grow this makes sure we have a fantastic green space right here in the CBD for people who live and work in Penrith,” he said.

“Converting this site into a beautiful central city park will provide people with a great space to gather outdoors and is a fine example of the NSW State Government and Council working together to deliver for the people of Penrith.”

The Allen Place laneway is also being revitalised as part of the project with it being widened to allow for two-way traffic.

It will be refurbished with a paved foot path, vehicle loading bay area, mountable kerb, garden beds and trees.

With a section of parking removed for the development of the park, additional parking was constructed on Woodriff Street last year to offset the loss.

For more information on the City Park project, visit penrith.city/citypark.

Stuart Ayres, Tricia Hitchen and Alan Stoneham turning the sod in City Park.

visitpenrith.com.au

Contact Us

Administration

Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

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

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city

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

Services

Waste Services 4732 7777

Illegal Dumping Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad. Graffiti Hotline Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

31 October – 7pm

Onine via penrith.city (Ordinary Meeting)

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Enjoy movie magic at the free St Marys Cinema series this October to December, as Coachmans Park plays host to three outdoor movie nights for the whole family to enjoy.

To kick it off we are bringing you Spooky Cinema with the family classic ‘Scooby Doo’ on Friday, 28 October 2022. Join us from 6pm for this free event and be sure to get in quick, there is free popcorn for the first 200 people!

Dress up in your favourite spooky costume, with prizes awarded for best dressed. Feel like a sweet treat during the movie? There will be dessert trucks on hand with tasty treats available for purchase.

Join us for a relaxing, fun and (slightly) spooky night! Find out more at penrith.city/events

● Council encourages residents to download the free Get Prepared app and put an emergency plan in place.

With disasters becoming more frequent, it has never been more important to get prepared. Whether it’s fire, floods or a family crisis, knowing what to do, where to go and who to tell in times of emergency can help keep you and your family safe. The free app is simple to use, can store important documents and includes tips on how to stay calm and identify risks, meeting places and the people who can help.

Download the Get Prepared app today at penrith.city/ emergencies

● Work is well underway to improve sporting infrastructure at Parker Street Reserve, Hickeys Lane Sportsground and The Kingsway Sports Precinct’s north fields, and to upgrade amenities buildings at Ched Towns Reserve, Bill Ball Oval and Doug Rennie Field.

Penrith City Council will also begin upgrading the cricket nets at Patterson Oval and Cook and Banks Oval this month.

These projects were identified through Council’s Sport and Recreation Strategy, which is a 15-year road map for the future provision of sport, play, recreation and open space facilities across our City.

Council is delivering 82 sport, recreation, play and open space projects between 2020–2024 to ensure our community has access to a diverse range of high quality infrastructure and open space to enjoy.

To find out more, visit penrith.city/spros

Public Exhibition

61–79 Henry Street, Penrith (the Henry Lawson Centre) – Planning Proposal and draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) Letter of Offer

Council invites you to view and provide feedback on a Planning Proposal to amend the planning controls in Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP 2010) for land at 61-79 Henry Street, Penrith, also known as the Henry Lawson Centre (the site). The land is legally described as Lot 1 DP 771927.

The Planning Proposal seeks to:

• Permit residential accommodation as an additional permitted use on the site;

• Ensure a minimum amount of floor space is retained for non-residential land uses to support Penrith’s commercial core; and

• Include a provision that will limit these controls to a period of five years after the date the LEP amendment is made.

The intent of the proposed amendment is to facilitate the redevelopment of the site as a mixed-use development, with a range of commercial, community and residential uses.

The NSW Department of Planning and Environment has not authorised Council to exercise delegation to make this plan.

The proponent has also submitted a Letter of Offer to Council to enter into a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA). The Offer outlines the landowner’s intention to deliver affordable and accessible housing, public open space and road and infrastructure upgrades through a future VPA.

Viewing the exhibition and making a submission

The Planning Proposal, Letter of Offer and supporting information are on public exhibition until Monday, 14 November 2022. The documents can be viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au and at Council’s Civic Centre.

You are invited to provide feedback by making a written submission to Council by Monday, 14 November 2022 by:

• Email: cityplanning@penrith.city

• Post: The General Manager (Attention: Peter Failes)

Penrith City Council

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

• Online NSW Planning Portal: planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ppr

Please include a subject line indicating ‘61-79 Henry Street, Penrith’ in emails and letters.

For further enquiries please contact Peter Failes, Senior Planner on 4732 7628 or email cityplanning@penrith.city

It’s not just for visitors!

Looking for the ultimate guide to positively adventurous Penrith? Check out the new Penrith Visitor Guide.

OFFIC

How to reduce bill shock

Simple changes can make a big difference as locals tackle cost-of-living pressures

EMILY FESZCZUK

Using water and electricity is some thing households do every day but as the cost-of-living increases, opening the bills each quarter can begin to sting.

Experts from Penrith company Hix Group have shared tips with the Weekender on what people can to do to keep their costs down.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Chair Gina Cass-Got tlieb told an Economic Committee before the House of Representatives that energy bills have lifted by an average of $300 since April.

Alinta Energy Chief Executive Jeff Dimmery has also predicted a rise of another 35 per cent by next year.

Hix Group Electrical Division Manager Paul Humphreys said small changes like changing to LED lighting and switching appliances off at power points “will all add up”.

“Newer styles of ducted air conditioning are quite efficient but something as simple as utilising blinds or using fans to stop using your big cooling system will drive the price down,” Mr Humphreys said.

“The government is continually introducing solar rebates, but I would stress people engage a reputable supplier and people who already have solar should be considering batteries.”

An understanding of what electricity plan you are on can also help you adopt habits

Public Notice

which will save money like using power in off peak times and Mr Humphreys says consum ers shouldn’t be afraid to “shop around for a better deal”.

Ensuring air conditioners are running

Public Meeting – Penrith Local Planning Panel

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

• DA22/0085

11a Canopus Close, Erskine Park

Torrens title subdivision into 3 lots including 1 lot to be retained as public reserve, new public pathway, tree removal, site remediation and ancillary civil works

• DA22/0084

25 Chameleon Drive, Erskine Park

Torrens title subdivision into 5 lots including 1 lot to be retained as public reserve, tree removal, construction of driveway and associated civil works

• DA22/0523

76 Mamre Road, St Marys

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 6 x town houses and associated works

• DA22/0652

16 River Road, Emu Plains

Torrens title subdivision x 6 lots and public road dedication

When: Wednesday, 26 October 2022 commencing at 11.30am

When: Online Meeting

To enable access into the online meeting please contact the Development Services Department on 4732 7637 or email localpanel@penrith.city by 4pm on Monday, 24 October 2022. A meeting invitation with log in details will be provided upon request. Please also confirm if you wish to register to speak.

Any person joining the online meeting are informed that the meeting will be audio recorded, and a copy of that

efficiently can also prevent them from using more electricity.

“Regularly cleaning filters is something most people can do because if you have blocked filters, you will have less air flow and

recording will be made publicly available following the meeting.

Relevant documents will be available on Penrith Council’s website penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Local-Planning-Panel/

Development Application

The following Development Applications has been received by Council:

• Carpenter Street Pty Ltd DA22/0926

Atf The Carpenter Street Unit Trust 246 Carpenter Street, St Marys

Demolition of existing structures, tree removal and construction of a 3-storey child care facility catering for x 70 children including car parking and associated works

Contact: Jane Hetherington on 4732 8078

Closing Date: Monday, 7 November 2022

Development Consent/s

Determined

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

Approved Development Applications

• Fowler Homes Pty Ltd

DA22/0755

Lot 69 DP 246593, 2 Ferox Court, South Penrith 2-storey dwelling

• Peter Warwick DA22/0803

Lot 304 DP 215243, 19 Mallee Street, North St Marys Strata title subdivision x 2 lots

• Better Built Homes & Developments Pty Ltd DA22/0811 Lot 47 DP 259982, 58 Pamela Parade, Leonay 2-storey dwelling

it has to work harder,” Electrical Field Super visor Nathan Powlay said.

“General maintenance, so getting air cons professionally serviced helps and some older models are not very efficient, but you need to weigh up the cost of getting a new system which is the same with other appliances.”

While limiting showers might be hard, Hix Plumbing Field Supervisor Dylan Cottrell said there is a range of ways to save water.

“On fixtures like showerheads there is the WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) system, so you are aiming for more stars which means less litres coming out,” Mr Cottrell said.

“Using a dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand can reduce water usage by 10 litres per day and using the eco mode on a washing machine compared to the normal mode can save an average family 3.7 kilolitres per year.”

Getting a plumber to repair any leaks and checking on the condition of water systems can reduce the risk of paying for more water.

“If you have natural gas service connected to your house installing an instantaneous water heater means it heats as you need it but one that constantly heats up can often lose four litres a day,” he said.

“Checking toilets to see if the valves have worn along with flexi-hoses under vanities or the pressure temperature relief valve could stop unwanted leakage.”

• Wayne Wilson DA22/0784

Lot 358 DP 261084, 7 Rydal Place, Cranebrook Carport

• Mcdonald Jones Homes DA22/0865 Lot 73 DP 243976, 34 Grassmere Avenue, South Penrith 2-storey dwelling

• Sarah Elliott DA22/0852

Lot 4220 DP 1234611, 9 Squadron Street, Jordan Springs 2-storey dwelling

• Sally Mikael DA22/0733 Lot 8 & 9 DP 30684, 15–17 Gordon Street, St Marys

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 6 x 2-storey town houses and associated works

• Leaf Architecture DA22/0746

Lot 3 DP 601023, 58a Blackwell Avenue, St Clair

Signage at Blackwell Public School

Refused Development Application

• Galea Group Pty Ltd DA22/0826

Lot 2 DP 1156996, 430 The Driftway, Londonderry

Existing earthworks, a retaining wall, and stormwater drainage works carried out ancillary to an existing farm building on the site and proposed drainage swale

Viewing of Development Applications

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ DATracker Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

Paul Humphreys, Dylan Cottrell and Nathan Powlay from Hix Group. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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Q: Where does fruit go

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to your wardrobe, Trollbeads gives you a unique opportunity to explore some thing new.

Inspired by the misty morning, find your own path and know that every acorn

on your way is a promise of renewal with the Woodland Bracelet.

Paired with the Pastel Flower Decor bead, this glass bead is handmade from red-hot glass in the open flame which means no two glass beads are ever completely alike. This goes for size, colouration and pattern. Your bead is absolutely unique.

Trollbeads has been making stunning collectible handmade jewellery since 1976, and now the full collection is avail able here in Australia at its flagship store or online at www.trollbeads.com.au.

The Weekender has a special Troll beads prize pack to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender. com.au with ‘Trollbeads’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, November 11 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are avail able at www.westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

paceway winnerslucky

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

I

SPY

Dose Dorin of

Do you know where this picture was taken?

Tell us exactly where this week’s featured I Spy image is located in Penrith and you could win! Email ispy@west ernweekender.com.au with your answer for your chance to win two movie tickets. Our winner will be notified by email. Entries close each Wednesday at 5pm.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The giant Panther statue is located within the grounds of Cables Wake Park in Penrith. Have you managed to spot this one in your travels?

Streaming newcomer Paramount+ is not fast-tracking many American shows like they did last year. They’ll quickly lose subscribers if they turn into a second rate service.

way to verify their

Look out for

this

This week’s lucky winners are: 0979, 0838, 0222.

Well done to 23-year-old Nedd Brockmann, who captured the hearts of the nation with his incred ible 3800km journey from Perth to Sydney over 47 days.

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

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

CASSIDY PEARCE

A festive atmosphere will be taking over this weekend, as Diwali celebrations kick off around Penrith.

One of the most popular festivals of Hindu ism, Diwali is a festival of lights, celebrating good triumphing over evil. This year, it will be held on Monday, October 24.

For Divya Kapoor, Diwali means reconnect ing with loved ones, particularly after the last few years of lockdowns and restrictions.

“For me, it’s a time to see the family to cele brate, and celebrate the blessings we have,” she said.

“It’s a three-to-five-day festival for us, so we try to buy new clothes, clean our homes. Everyone is excited to have gifts not only for yourself but for the little kids and your friends.”

Part of the festivities involves purchasing goods such as decorative handmade items for your home, wax and clay diyas, and sparkles –all of which can be purchased at Ms Kapoor’s store, Rice To Spice Supermarket.

“We made sure people know that we have all these things available in Penrith, so they don’t have to travel all around to the different suburbs,” she said.

“We’ve had lots of people coming to us recently!”

But, for those not celebrating at home,

celebrate Diwali

Jordan Springs Boys Group is holding a Diwali Party second to none.

“A lot of other councils will do Diwali func tions, with a lot of people who come together, they meet each other, they do food stalls and so many other different stalls, and we’re doing the same thing,” Nitin Jain said.

“We’re trying our best, starting with a small one.”

Their first event was held in 2019, which saw up to 100 families attend to celebrate with music, performances, dancing, and incredi ble food.

Now, this year is marking it’s triumphant return, this time at Jordan Springs Commu nity Centre.

According to Mr Jain, events like these are imperative in connecting members of the community, particularly at such an important time of year.

“It’s about enjoying a good time with friends,” he said.

“Most of these people don’t have their fami lies here. At this time, when we’re back home, we’re surrounded by a lot of family members, but here, without them, you don’t want people to feel isolated, especially on Diwali. In that case, it’s good to spend that time with your friends, and enjoy that time together.”

Jordan Springs Boys Groups’ Diwali Party will be on at Jordan Springs Community Centre on Saturday, October 29 at 5pm. For more information, visit bit.ly/3ESk3eY.

Business owners across the Mountains, Penrith, St Marys and, surrounds recently attended NOVA Employment’s launch of their eighth annual 100 jobs in 100 days campaign in support of disability inclusion.

NOVA Ambassador and seven-time Logie award-winning actor, Ms Paula Duncan AM, greeted guests as they arrived at the Log Cabin. ‘It’s wonderful to see so many different businesses show their support,’ said Ms Duncan, who took on the ambassadorial role for NOVA in 2010 ‘We’ve got a great mix who are not just providing jobs – they’re changing people’s lives,’ said Ms Duncan.

Speakers included Gareth Jones, Owner/Director, of Marley Flow Control and Jonathon Cooper, Uphire GM. ‘Mark’s quite outgoing, quite vivacious in what he says, ‘ said Mr Jones referring to the All-rounder he hired through NOVA 2 years ago. ‘Mark communicates very well. He talks to everybody, and it creates an atmosphere on the factory floor that we haven’t seen before.’ Uphire’s Jonathon Cooper said they had a similar experience ‘Right now we’ve got two NOVA employees,’ said Mr Cooper. ‘Jeff, who started washing machines with a gurney and is now at the end of his third-year Apprenticeship, which is fantastic. And Gary, who’s taken over Jeff’s old role the past six months and he’s now going to become a Trades Assistant.’

Simran Kaur and Divya Kapoor at Rice To Spice Supermarket.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Turning diagnosis into a lesson for all

CASSIDY PEARCE

For Glenmore Park local Karen Frugtniet, getting her first seeing eye dog was made a walk in the park with the help of Vision Australia.

Now, she’s making the world her classroom, and taking every possible opportunity to educate those around her about accessibility and inclusion.

Ms Frugtniet’s diagnosis of retinitis pigmen tosa – a disease she describes as being similar to tunnel vision – came not only as a shock to her, but also to her family.

“It’s a hereditary disease, but I’m the first one in the family. I’ve got a mutant gene,” she said.

“I was 36 when I found out that I had the disease – I had no idea because it wasn’t in the family.”

Initial symptoms, which saw Ms Frugtneit struggle to see objects on dark floors and stop and start at shadows, gradually got worse, deem ing her legally blind, and unable to drive.

After her discomfort with using a cane neglected to waiver, she began searching online, and discovered an avenue which she believed would work better for her, kickstarting her journey with what was then Seeing Eye Dogs Australia.

Though she had her reservations at first, Ms Frugniet notes that being matched with her first dog, Josie, changed her life forever.

“It absolutely gave me my independence back,

especially since it was so quick that I could no longer drive,” she said.

“I had two small children at the time that I had to get around to afternoon activities, had to get them around to school and preschool, and having Josie just helped me and my confidence so much.”

Throughout her seven years with Josie, Ms Frugtniet brought her to work each day as a teacher’s aide at Bethany Catholic Primary School. Now that Josie has retired to family pet, she continues to do the same with her new seeing eye dog, Queenie.

For Ms Frugtniet, being able to educate her students is of high priority.

“It’s not something that you see every day,” she said.

“She’s a seeing eye dog, and I make sure people know that. The kids at school know that when she’s got her harness on, which she always has on at school, that they can’t touch her, they can’t distract her, because she’s working. They’re very good with that.

“I often see them at the local shops and stuff and I hear them tell their parents, ‘These are the rules around Queenie, you can’t distract her, we have to pick up our rubbish because rubbish isn’t good for her’, and things like that.”

But, it’s not just in school that Ms Frugtniet teaches those around her, labelling herself as a walking lesson.

“I don’t mind answering questions from the community, it’s a conversation starter!” she said. Karen Frugtniet and Queenie.

Find

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Bumpy ride to roll on for travellers

CASSIDY PEARCE

You’ll often hear that booking your holiday with a travel agent is the best way to iron out all the kinks that could come up along the way. But, with flights continuing to be delayed and cancelled daily, it seems the only cure is patience.

According to Kim Owen from Helloworld Travel Emu Plains, the delays and cancellations come from a myriad of troubles down the line, and are well and truly the luck of the draw.

“The cancellations and flight changes are happening because they don’t have as many aircrafts flying, and because of sick leave for pilots and crew, and because of engineering problems with them, from what we hear,” she said.

“Some of these things just can’t be helped, but of course it’s just frustrating for the passengers, and for travel agents alike, because a flight will be there one day, and then it’s cancelled within an hour, so you’ve got all of these people that are booked for two

weeks’ time, and all of a sudden, that flight’s cancelled.”

Ms Owen admits that due to troubles with certain airlines over the school holidays, there are a few she’d steer clear of for the time being. But, it’s important to remember that these problems aren’t just happening close to home.

“Every airline in the world is having problems – it’s not just in Australia,” she said.

“We hear about airlines in Canada, where the aircraft was delayed leaving one flight to go down from Canada into America, which then meant that people missed their connection to their next destination, and they had to stay in the airport for six or seven hours.”

As for how long it will take for things to get back to the pre-COVID norm, Ms Owen has her predictions.

“I think up until Christmas, this is going to be the new norm,” she said.

“I know that’s not ideal for passengers, because they want to get there at a particular time, but

the health of ground staff or crew is out of everybody’s hands.”

To protect yourself, Ms Owen recommends knowing what you’re covered for, and what your rights are before you get to the gate.

“Especially for international, people should have travel insur ance. But, depending on what level of travel insurance you have, whether it covers you for flight delays or cancellations, that’s the supplier, so sometimes it won’t provide you with that level of cover,” she said.

“Other times, if the carrier gives you an alternative or a refund or a credit, then travel insurance doesn’t matter as much. Once you’re at the airport or it’s within 24 hours, everything is under the airline’s control.”

But, most importantly, travellers are urged to be patient.

“The airlines are trying to do their best with what they’ve got, and it’s just that patience,” she said.

“It’s very frustrating, and we understand that, but it is out of our control.”

Flight paths still a mystery

Construction continues,

EMILY FESZCZUK

The new Federal Government has taken over planning for Western Sydney Interna tional (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport but locals are still asking the same question: What are the flight paths?

A pop-up information stand that was at St Marys Village last week has prompted the community to call for more transparency when it comes to the design planning process.

Supportive of the airport which is on track to open in 2026, Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh told the Weekender that engaging with residents is a vital part of the project.

“The development of flight paths is certainly a complicated process and there is a lot to consider but it is important that our community gets the opportunity to receive information and provide feedback,” Ms McIntosh said.

“I don’t think the last-minute stand that a lot of people couldn’t attend was good enough so I have requested another one so people can understand the process as transparency is essential when it comes to this.”

Secretary of Residents Against Western Sydney Airport Trevor Neal

believes that a lack of consultation is a “premeditated choice”.

“Right from the start it became evident that the delay in releasing flight paths is a ploy to get the thing

constructed before people realise the true impacts of aircraft noise and pollution,” Mr Neal said.

“In our view the flight paths should have been a part of the original

won’t

process of assessing whether or not there should have been an airport or not, but was deliberately not done.”

Wayne Willmington, who is a Luddenham representative on the

until

Forum on Western Sydney Airport, attended the information session.

“I don’t necessarily agree with everything about the airport but with planes leaving Sydney, Bank stown, Camden, Richmond and Holsworthy I can understand why they have a process,” he said.

“I spent quite a bit of time at St Marys and saw a lot of locals coming up to learn about what was happen ing and actually thought it was quite well done.”

A spokesperson for the Depart ment of Infrastructure said the Government is committed to genuine consultation and is seeking community feedback before and during the public exhibition period to guide the final flight path design.

“These are the first of what will be many pop-ups and opportunities for the community to engage around the future of the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport,” the spokesperson said.

“We expect to be in a position to release the draft preliminary flight paths Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in mid-2023. The draft EIS will be accompanied by an interactive flight path and noise mapping program that will provide the community with the best possi ble opportunity to understand and engage with the process.”

Kim Owen from Helloworld Travel Emu Plains.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Wayne Willmington learning about flight paths at Sydney Airport.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters COMPILED BY EMILY FESZCZUK

St Marys: Man’s return to shopping centre results in charges

A man has been charged after trespassing, shoplifting, and assaulting a person in St Marys.

In February 2021, a 38-year-old Tregear man was issued an indefinite banning notice from a shopping centre on Charles Hackett Drive, St Marys.

On Thursday, October 6, it is alleged the man entered the supermarket inside the shopping centre.

The man allegedly filled a trolley before pushing it out the entry gates of the store, failing to pay for any items contained within the trolley.

A 26-year-old security officer was returning from her break when she saw the man exiting and recognised him, as she had allegedly dealt with him on previous occasions.

It is alleged that the woman asked the man what he was doing, and he barged into her using his body which threw her off balance.

The man allegedly started to verbally abuse the woman and she took hold of the trolley to stop him from leaving.

It is alleged that they struggled over the trolley before it tipped over and the man left the location.

About 3.50pm on Wednesday, October 12, it is alleged the man entered the same shop ping centre, grabbed a trolley, and entered the store.

Security was contacted and detained the man before police arrested him.

As he was being led from the store, the 26-year-old woman was performing her duties when the man allegedly stuck his finger up at her and mouthed inappropriate words while being aggressive towards her.

The man was charged, and bail refused. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, November 24.

Kingswood: Two men to front court after police spot drug deal

Two men have been charged with drug offences after a suspected drug deal in King swood.

About 10.15pm on Friday, October 14 police were patrolling Bringelly Road, Kingswood.

The officers saw what they thought was a drug exchange, where a man was walking away from a vehicle.

One police officer stopped the 21-year-old St Marys man, whilst the other office stopped the driver of the vehicle, a 22-year-old Clare mont Meadows man.

Police spoke to the 21-year-old who alleg edly admitted to having cocaine when police asked him if he had anything on him.

The man handed a small re-sealable plastic bag containing cocaine to police.

The man was charged and will appear at Penrith Local Court on Friday, December 2.

Police spoke to the 22-year-old and informed him that he and the vehicle would be searched.

They allegedly located a considerable amount of money in his wallet, all in $50 notes.

It is alleged the 22-year-old admitted supplying the 21-year-old with cocaine.

The 22-year-old was also arrested and charged. He too will front Penrith Local Court at a later date.

South Penrith: Man fronts court over firearm, drug offences

A man has been charged after committing firearm offences and supplying prohibited drugs in South Penrith.

About 7.45am on Monday, October 17 police attended a residential premises in Pebworth Place, South Penrith.

It is alleged the occupant, a 28-year-old man was wanted for an offence.

The man was arrested on entry and when searching his bedroom, police allegedly located a long arm rifle on the floor.

Police cleared the house and the man was handcuffed.

Checks on the man allegedly named him as being on a Firearms Prohibition Order, which meant that he could not be in possession of a firearm or firearm parts.

Officers re-entered the property to search it and allegedly located the butt to a rifle.

The man was asked about the item but allegedly refused to answer.

Police went back to the man’s room, where the long arm was identified as an air rifle.

As they continued to search they located slug rounds and tablets that were not prescribed to the man.

They have also located several small re-sealable plastic bags and small plastic container that contained amphetamines.

The man was taken to the police station and officers continued to search the premises.

They allegedly located two gel blaster fire arms, a container filled with cannabis, three homemade spears and some live shotgun shells.

The man was charged and bail refused. He was due to front court this week.

with Daniel McKinnon

THE INS AND OUTS OF LEGAL COSTS

Any kind of litigation is longwinded, stress ful, and if there are lawyers involved, they are expensive.

This is because we have a complex legal system with many different jurisdictions and lots of dense, technical rules that need to be followed.

Just like most people would not know the first thing about assembling a car engine unless they were a trained mechanic, the legal system can be very difficult, sometimes impossible, to navigate without the assis tance of a trained lawyer.

It is rare that each party’s legal costs in any kind of litigation do not end up in the thou sands, often the tens of thousands.

So who has to pay these costs? The question has many different answers.

The starting principle is that each party has to pay their own costs. This means that if you engage a lawyer to prosecute some sort of claim for you, or defend a claim, you should assume that you are going to have to pay your own legal costs.

Often however one party has to pay some or all of the other party’s costs. This is known as “adverse costs order” and occurs where someone loses a legal case and the Judicial Officer (Judge) overseeing the case orders the losing side to pay some or all of the winning side’s costs. The rationale is that the winning side has suffered an unjustifiable loss in having to either pay for a lawyer to prosecute a claim because the other party did not fulfil some obligation they had to the winning side or defend a misguided or unsuccessful claim against them. Had they either not been forced to commence legal proceedings to prosecute their claim, or in the case of a successful defendant, had they not been dragged into

expensive legal fees, they would not have incurred the costs of legal representation and therefore the losing side should pay.

The problem is that it is very rare that a winning party will recover 100 per cent of their legal costs. If you win a legal case and get a costs order in your favour (meaning the other party has to pay some or all of your costs) you can usually expect to recover about 60 per cent to 70 per cent of your costs at most, sometimes less.

In limited circumstances a Court or Tribu nal might make an “indemnity costs order”. This means that the person or entity the costs order is made against has to pay 100 per cent of the other party’s legal costs. This usually only occurs where the winning party makes some sort of offer to settle the proceedings before going to a hearing and puts the losing party on notice that if they do not accept the offer, and they ultimately lose the proceed ings or obtain a result that is less favourable than the offer that is on the table, then the winning party will ask the Court to make an order that the losing party pay all of its costs from that date forward. This is known as a Calderbank offer.

There are other scenarios whereby a losing party will be ordered to pay indemnity costs, for example where the losing party completely capitulates during the litigation and concedes all of the other party’s points.

Before commencing any type of litigation you need to carefully consider the costs of doing so, and your risks of having an adverse costs order made against you if you are the unsuccessful party.

If you have questions about the costs of prosecuting or defending a legal case, you can contact us to discuss your questions.

NEW POLICE ON THE BEAT IN PENRITH

Two new probationary constables have started work at Nepean Police Area Command following a graduation ceremony at Goulburn last week.

Class 355 is made up of 145 recruits, includ ing 94 men and 51 women from various backgrounds and regions across the State and country.

“Our new police officers have chosen a career of service and will be a vital asset to the people of Penrith,” said State Penrith MP, Stuart Ayres.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the new officers for their contribution and congratulate them on the start of their exciting careers.”

The perfect summer BBQ

Expert tips to ensure you deliver flavoursome, perfectly cooked meat

EMILY FESZCZUK

Enjoying a sausage sandwich off a backyard barbie is synonymous with summer in Australia.

As the weather warms up, Owen Brown from Smoky Sue’s in Penrith said there are simple tips people can follow to level up their grilling game.

While familiar cuts, such as chops and sausages, are a safe option and quick to cook, trying something new and trusting the

“Sometimes less is more and it’s best to focus on key flavours and let the smoking do the talking.”

Mr Brown said the person behind the barbeque must be patient and relaxed to have a mouth-watering cut of meat.

“Don’t get fixated or try to over manage the temperature of the fire, it is more about the internal temperature,” he said.

“When the heat ramps up it can add varied degrees of flavour.”

And he has a particularly important tip for all enthusiasts, which will require a little bit

Marys Village Drycleaners

Dads ‘wake’ up to fun

‘Dodgy Dads’ sessions at Cables Wake Park provide a physical and mental boost

CASSIDY PEARCE

Calling all dodgy dads! If you’ve been wanting to try something new, Cables Wake Park has just the thing for you.

This month, Cables Wake Park has kick started their Dodgy Dads sessions, for pros and rookies alike to hone their skills in a slow er-paced, supportive environment.

Going along with the club’s family-orien tated nature, the idea for their Dodgy Dads sessions came from Kids Club.

“We run Kids Club every Saturday and Sunday morning here at Cables Wake Park from 8.30am to 10am before the cable opens –we run it at a slower speed, we have a buggy in the back corner that helps pick the equipment up for them to save their energy, and it’s more supportive and inclusive,” said coach Rob Moulton.

“A lot of the parents were just standing on the side watching, and getting really intrigued with how we were teaching the kids, how supportive we were, and would comment, ‘We’d love to do this’, and I’d say, ‘OK, the park opens at 10, go and buy a ticket and I’ll see you down here’, and they’d say, ‘No, no, like this. As a group, all supportive’. So, we started Dodgy Dads!”

The session enables men to get involved in an activity they may have thought they’d never be able to – away from the stresses of day-to-day life.

“There are no kids around, no work, nothing else, it’s about them knowing that someone’s focusing on me, and supporting me to be as successful as I can on my first go,” Mr Moulton said.

Upon entering the club, participants are assured that safety is paramount – being fitted for a helmet and life vest, and taught the basics to help them navigate around the lake.

Aside from this, Mr Moulton’s main focus is ensuring inclusivity and support, encour aging participants without pushing them

beyond their limits.

“It’s about raising people up to get better,” he said.

“If someone’s never worn a life vest before, that’s a positive action, they’ve taken courage to come down and do something new for themselves. If you fail something the first time you do it, you’ve still learned something, you’re progressing each stage.”

It’s because of this that Mr Moulton says he’s seen participants reap benefits outside of just

fun and fitness.

“One thing that surprised me was that I’ve had dads come back to me saying that they didn’t realise how much it would help their mental health,” he said.

“They’re just being so open, they got to meet new people, doing the same activity, going through the same aversions. The sharing, the inclusiveness, and them opening up, they said it really helped blow off some steam.”

The first session, held on Monday, saw 12

participants attend, despite the overcast weather. With weekly sessions ahead, Mr Moulton wants all men, not just dads, to come out and give it a go.

“As long as you can swim, I’d encourage everyone to do it,” he said.

Dodgy Dads sessions are held on Mondays from 5pm to 7pm at Cables Wake Park in Penrith.

For more information, head to cableswakepark.com.au.

Retirement news is in

EMILY FESZCZUK

W alters’ Newsa gency in St Marys has always been a hive of activity with locals picking up their favourite things to read from the shop on Monfar ville Street.

Owners Sue and Ron Walters have decided to retire after owning the business just shy of 27 years but say the service will still be available to the community.

Handing over to the new owner on Monday, Ms Walters told the Week ender that she had been

reflecting on their time running the business.

“My husband Ron used to work in a bank and when he finished up there, he took 12 months off and we looked around as we wanted to run a business together, so we bought this,” she said.

“We have been part of this strip for so long, we have seen things change and it has been a big part of our life. We have seen our paper boys grow up and got to know our regulars. It has been good for us.”

The shop stocks everything from papers to stationary, cards and confec tionary but with the rise of digital news platforms over the years, newspapers, and magazines, along with the stores that stock them, have been impacted.

“We were a good old-fashioned news agent that prided ourselves with two big home delivery runs and 10 sub agents but when the Telegraph and Herald took that away from local newsagents it really did affect our local business,” Ms Walters said.

“Our main income now is probably from lottery tickets, but we do still

have people come in to buy papers and magazines because it is a part of their generation to have a coffee and read the news.”

After operating for nearly three decades, it may have been a difficult decision for some to give up the business, but Ms Walters said “it was time”.

“I think we knew it was time for us to move on,” she said.

“I am still quite active, but it was getting too much for Ron, so now we can slow down a little and look after ourselves.”

While the business will continue to operate, the Walters’ want to thank the community for choosing them for their needs.

“We want to thank all the people that have supported us because we feel like we are a part of the family,” she said.

“It has been a bit overwhelming to see all the people that have come in to say goodbye to us. The hardest part has been saying goodbye, but the new owner DJ will continue, and we can pop in every now and then.”

And for the record, you can pick up the Weekender at the newsagent every week.

One of the Dodgy Dads coaches, Carson Desjardins, at Cables Wake Park in Penrith.

Sue Walters on her final day at the newsagency on Monday.

Δ Santa's coming: Kids will be able to whisper their Christmas wishes direct to Santa this year with no restrictions attached to the beloved tradition for the first time since 2019. Westfield has confirmed Santa will be arriving in centres from November 12. The full suite of Christmas photography options will be on offer, including Sensitive Santa and Pet Photography, and the option for custom ers to choose to sit with Santa or slightly apart.

Δ Festive deadline: Australia Post has announced the need-to-know dates for more

than 180 international destinations to help Australians sending Christmas cards and presents to loved ones overseas. For Economy Air, many destinations require cards and gifts to be sent as early as November 14 but for International Standard and Express there is more time. If posting with International Express, some popular destinations like the USA, the UK, New Zealand and Canada should be sent by December 9. Recommended last sending dates for posting within Australia will be announced in the coming weeks by Australia Post.

Δ Raffle success: To show the importance of kindness to the students, Braddock Public School in Cranebrook recently held a raffle to support Lismore Public School which was severely impacted by the floods earlier this year. The prize, which was a framed Penrith Panthers jersey that was signed by all the players for the 2022 season (pictured above), raised $835 and was won by the Hotte family. All of the children are excited that the proceeds will be put towards rebuilding the gardens at Lismore Public School.

Δ Grant flows in: A local organisation has been selected as recipients of Sydney Water’s 2022 Community Grants program with the

company awarding seven community grants of up to $10,000. Western Sydney University, through its Early Education and Care Centre at Penrith Campus, will use its funding to deliver a Healthy Waterways learning experi ence for up to 80 children aged five years and under. The children will learn the value of the water source and the animals that rely on waterways’ health.

Δ Tableware rewards: Everyday Rewards members will soon be able to earn Rewards

Credits to redeem a dinnerware, glassware and cutlery collection (pictured below), by simply shopping in store and online at Wool worths, Metro and BIG W. From this week, a total of six vivo Villeroy & Boch Tableware products will be available to redeem, from crystalline glassware, to stainless steel cutlery and 100 per cent porcelain clay plates. All items are dishwasher safe.

Dancing for a good cause

Local radio announcer among those facing their fears and hitting the dance floor

BEVIN LIU

After a successful first Stars of Western Sydney, the charity event will return to the Blacktown Workers Club this Saturday, October 22.

With one in two Australians diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, all proceeds raised from the event, including money raised by local stars, will go towards Cancer Council NSW in supporting world-class cancer research and prevention.

For $135, the admission will cover a three course-meal and a drink along with access to a night of fun with dancing, food, raffles, auctions and spectacular entertainment inclusive.

With 10 stars representing the western Sydney area this year and more than $26,000 raised so far, local stars include Wayne Tunks, breakfast announcer at My88 FM; Donna Davis, Lord Mayor of Parramatta; Sara Spear point, Penrith photographer; and Simon DeSilva, Seven Hills firefighter.

The stars have been working hard raising funds and practicing their routines ahead of this weekend’s performance at the Workers Club.

Having exceeded his $5000 goal, local Penrith radio host Mr Tunks told the Week ender that he hopes to raise even more prior to the event this weekend.

“It’s been a lot of fun. While I don’t enjoy dancing professionally, I enjoy dancing, and I love getting in there with my dance partner and raising money for charity,” he said.

“While I’m not dancing seriously and just having fun, I’m taking the fundraising seri ously and raising huge money for the Cancer Council.”

Each star from the community is assigned a dance genre, and Mr Tunks revealed that his team will be performing the genre of musicals.

He said he has given up junk food and alco hol to get into shape for the performance this weekend.

“My dancer partner is Ashleigh Bartlett from Stargazer Pole Studio in Blacktown, and we’ve been having fun making a mix of musicals... from ‘Annie’ to ‘Flashdance’ and ‘Dirty Danc ing’... and I’ll also be doing a bit of singing along with a three-costumes in three minutes dance routine,” Mr Tunks said.

“I’ve spoken to Lord Mayor Donna, who had gotten Latin ballroom, and that wasn’t her specialty at all, and others got everything from belly dancing to pole dancing to hip hop; it’s all luck of the draw, but I knew I wanted to concentrate on songs from the ‘80s.”

Mr Tunks said the experience was about facing his fears and raising much-needed funds for Cancer Council.

Those wanting to support the stars can do so by visiting stars.cancercouncil.com.au/ event/stars-of-western-sydney-2022/home.

Wayne Tunks and dance partner Ashleigh Bartlett.

Local midwife up for top award

CASSIDY PEARCE

Tracey Bryan, the Aboriginal Caseload Midwife at Nepean Hospital, has been named as one of four finalists in the category of Aboriginal Nurse/midwife of the Year at this year’s NSW Health Excel lence in Nursing & Midwifery Awards.

Ms Bryan was inspired to become a midwife when she watched her brother be born at age 19. Having now been at Nepean Hospital for six years, she has well and truly made her mark, and reached her own goals in the field by becoming an Aboriginal Caseload Midwife.

“Since I started nursing, Aboriginal health was definitely somewhere where I wanted to be, to be able to help and be there for the community” she said.

“As I ventured into maternity, I really saw the need to have someone who identified, being in that role to support women.”

As an Aboriginal Caseload Midwife, Ms Bryan is the primary midwife assigned to these Aboriginal women throughout their pregnancy, birth and postnatally.

“What don’t I love about it?” she said.

“It’s being out in the community, it’s connecting with the women – they educate me as much as I educate them on various things. It’s all about that connection and being there for the women.”

Ms Bryan said that her initial shock reac tion to the nomination has yet to pass.

“I’m absolutely blown away by the nomina tion, and I feel quite humbled that someone has taken the time to nominate me for such an amazing award,” she said.

Tracey Bryan.

“I think it’s great when you have your little team awards within the wards and things like that, but to know that this is New South Wales wide is incredible.”

The winners of the awards will be announced on Friday, November 18.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Special birthday milestone

Many of you will be familiar with Coun cil’s Mobile Playvan, a valuable and unique service offering families free play sessions in parks, reserves and community facilities throughout Penrith.

Council’s Mobile Playvan has brought our community together for over 40 years and I am delighted to celebrate the 40th birthday of one of our City’s most loved services.

Our service is open to all families in the Penrith area and is led by professional early childhood educators.

Since 1982, thousands of children have enjoyed a range of fun activities while learning through play and developing their social skills. These experiences have also helped our youngest residents pre pare for their next stage in life – childcare and school.

Mobile Playvan also empowers parents to be proactive in the care and education of their children, providing a range of resources including referral and specialist information, parenting support, commu

nity services information, and health and development information.

The Mobile Playvan provides play ses sions in new and developing areas across

Penrith supporting families and new resi dents to build social networks and a sense of belonging in their local community.

The service also gives families and car ers a place to connect, with many parent support groups and long-lasting friend ships formed over the years.

I would like to welcome you to join us to celebrate and reflect on the past 40 years of the Mobile Playvan and meet some of the amazing educators and wonderful families who have helped shape the Play van into the valuable service it continues to be today.

Please join the celebrations on Wednes day, October 26, between 3.30pm-5.30pm at The Mondo. Go to Penrith.city/childcare to RSVP and to learn about other exciting events happening this week.

CR TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor of Penrith

LOOKING FOR A PAPER?

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

Probus honours three of its best

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

In light of Probus Month, the Nepean Riverlands Probus Club held a special meeting last Wednesday, where members donned blue and gold to acknowl edge three members in particular for their efforts over the years in helping the club’s activities run smoothly and efficiently.

Probus Clubs exist all around Australia to provide retirees with the opportunity to connect socially, at minimal cost.

For Certificate of Appreciation recipient, Malcolm King, who joined as a foundation member in 2003 and has since held a myriad of titles, starting out as the Walks Coordina tor in 2004, Vice President in 2009, President in 2010, and Secretary in 2013 and 2014, this is exactly what he was looking for.

“I worked for a company where I travelled

interstate a lot, so once I retired, unfortu nately I didn’t have very many friends here, because I worked away so much, so I just really needed to get involved in something in Penrith,” he said.

“I saw the ad in the paper and came along to the first meeting, and it all fell from there.”

Fellow award recipient, Heather Abbott, was recognised for cheerfully slicing the cinnamon buns, spreading the butter, and making sure everyone has a cuppa in their hand.

“I love the social interaction,” she said.

“It’s just amazing the things we’ve done and been involved in.”

Peter Gaudry was also recognised for his contribution to the club, helping everyone on and off the bus each trip, and looking after their much-loved book swap.

“I think retirees should definitely join the Probus Club,” he said.

Peter Gaudry, Heather Abbott and Malcolm King before receiving their awards.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Giving teens their voice

The Monologue Collective opens doors for young writers in unprecedented way

CASSIDY PEARCE

Western Sydney students are on track to change HSC Drama for the better, as they write monologues for teens, by teens, led by local playwright, Laneikka Denne.

Ms Denne, a former student of Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School, started writing plays in an attempt to be the representation she felt she was missing.

“I wrote my first play at age 17, just out of the outrage that I was stud ying in my final year of HSC, and I couldn’t find any HSC monologues that I thought at all reflected what it was to be a young teenage girl. I just felt like all of them were written by older white men that felt like they were trying to create some sort of artificial idea of what they thought a teenage girl was, so I just wrote my own entire play,” she said.

“I ended up going to Sydney and went to LA, and it’s being turned into a film now – it’s entirely propelled me into this arts industry. Because of how passionate I was and still am about teenagers getting authentic

representation and great work within HSC drama and beyond, I just thought, why don’t I give a platform for other young people to be able to do the same?”

What began as a collecting and archival service to give the teen agers she was tutoring relatable monologues for their HSC, quickly became something much greater.

Ms Denne developed a one-year program called The Monologue Collective, which has seen 10 teen age writers undergo developments for their works which have included working alongside an assigned dramaturg, and participating in one-on-one workshops with playwrights who have worked on Broadway and in various theatre companies from around the world.

With the diverse voices in the program, Ms Denne hopes that teenagers around Australia will see the issues that are going on in their lives reflected in these monologues, allowing for them to be excited about theatre education.

“It’s definitely a cross-section of what it means to be an Australian youth today, it’s not just Eurocentric private school kids that have grown up in inner Sydney their whole life,”

youth and adult social programs

all new social programs for people with disability aged 13+. Based in Kemps Creek, our programs empower participants to explore, participate and conquer whatever they set their minds on, whilst meeting new people and building confidence.

transport available.

for an open day and tour the

on 2 November or

December at 10am.

she said.

“It’s been so lovely that although someone may fit into a quota of queer or POC, they’re writing about whatever they want to write about – whether that’s their lived expe rience or it’s a monologue that has nothing to do with them, they get to tell the story they want. I found it really special to hear all about their lives, and then hear about what they actually want to tell.”

The Monologue Collective is currently in the midst of its first season at Kings Cross Theatre, but with Playlab in Brisbane set to publish the works, Ms Denne said this is just the beginning.

DEAR WEEKENDER

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Museum is a hidden gem

A group of 20 of us recently visited one of Penrith’s hidden gems, the Penrith Museum of Printing. The five volunteers were marvellous, and have a wealth of knowledge of the printing industry. We were given an extensive look at machinery and equipment from years gone by, and demonstrations of the machines in operation. For anyone who has not been there, make sure you plan a visit, you will not be disappointed, it is a great experience, and you will learn a lot.

DAVID MOORE, VIA EMAIL

Time for action is now

I write on behalf of the not-for-profit Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia. My simple message is that if your readers are impacted in any way by a mental health issue, they should reach out because there is help available. We have an important project called Finding North that is very user-friendly and is – in simple terms – an online initiative which links people with mental health issues with other people facing similar issues so they can offer support to each other. The time for action on mental health is unquestionably now. We know that a massive 54 per cent of all Australians affected by mental illness simply do not access any kind of treatment. We know that 3.8 million Australians now live with mental illness – it’s enough people to fill a city the size of Hobart 17.5 times. Far too many people at a local level are ending up in hospital emergency rooms... because they simply don’t know where to go to. We’re urging all governments to invest more in services that help people with mental health

issues. We desperately need to make it easier for people to access the very real help that is out there. We urgently need to address the attitudes and beliefs that can exclude people who have a mental illness from workplaces, communities and social circles. The reality is people with mental illness can live well in the community and do recover if the right clinical and community support is there. We urge all readers to have a look at our important latest project. Just go to www. findingnorthnetwork.com.au

TONY STEVENSON, MENTAL ILLNESS

FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIA

Long way to go for EVs

It not just the cost of the car (Challenge facing our switch to Electric Vehicles, Week ender October 21). Will the mains coming into your home carry the extra power needed to change your car as it’s reported that each home has to be rewired for 3 phase? Is the cabling in the street going to handle all that extra power? Are the substations going to all have to be upgraded? As the coal fired power stations are being shut down how will there be enough electricity produced to charge all these vehicles? Then there’s the replacement cost of batteries which is in the $10,000s. All this and they will only go a few 100km before needing to be recharged, that takes about an hour for a quick charge to take you another couple of 100km before needing to recharge again, not mentioning that there will be a queue at the charging station. Might be OK for the tiny countries of Europe, which several fit into NSW, but not much good for the vast expanses of Australia.

JOHN STALLING, VIA FACEBOOK

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

Laneikka Denne is behind ‘The Monologue Collective’.

Kids involved in The Monologue Collective.

Check out this shot of High Street, Penrith from the early 1990s.

The controversial High Street Mall, which saw the main street closed to traffic, can be seen in the back ground.

And there’s a few popular 1990s stores in frame too, including Venture.

Venture department stores ran in Australia between 1970 and 1994.

Venture collapsed in 1994 under immense pressure from competitors like Big W, Kmart and Target. But for many in Penrith, it remains in their hearts as their first job or where they managed to snap up a bargain.

Also in this photo is the entrance to the Hayden Cinema Complex, which operated for a time on High Street alongside its Lawson Street location.

SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS FROM PENRITH’S PAST – INFO@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

PENRITH VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • WWW.PENRITHCHAMBER.ORG.AU

Connect, collaborate, communicate

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce has been supporting local businesses since 1927 and is fast approaching an impressive 100-year milestone.

On the runway ahead lie some game changing opportunities for Penrith and western Sydney, not least the delivery of the Western Sydney International Airport that will transform the city and region.

As well as being a consultant to Paddle Australia, Richard Fox said he is honoured and excited to be elected as the new Chamber Presi dent, replacing Kate Rafton, who has led the Chamber over the past two years introducing the successful Lights on Penrith business events.

The Chamber’s role is to connect and collaborate with the local and wider business community, repre sent the interests of the region to key stakeholders and advocate for sustainable growth and creative change.

Last week, Penrith City Council launched its Invest Penrith prospec tus setting out the city’s future with strategic centres, connected trans port infrastructure and improved liveability, through soon to be delivered revitalisation projects like the riverside Regatta Park.

In parallel, the business sector is growing the city, bringing new hospitality destinations, conference facilities, business parks, tourism attractions and accommodation to the region.

Thousands of jobs are being gener ated by these investments and there is more in the planning pipeline as we look forward to the next release

of business, leisure, and lifestyle opportunities in the Penrith Lakes precinct.

This growth economy is every body’s business, which is why the Chamber is collaborating with government agencies, other busi ness networks and local Councils in Greater Western Sydney to help grow its destination and liveability

profile. Equally important is making sure that business and the wider community in the Penrith Valley is “airport ready” for that anticipated first landing and direct rail link to St Marys and Penrith.

Along the way, more events at the Penrith Lakes precinct, like the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Cham pionships at a newly upgraded

Olympic Whitewater course, will be an opportunity to showcase the attractiveness of the city, valley and region to an Australian and global audience.

If you’re in business in Penrith, it’s time to connect with your local Chamber.

For more information visit www. penrithchamber.org.au.

BUSINESS

WITH KATINA BEVERIDGE

How to get your online ads seen by the right customers at the right time

In this digital age where organic reach on social media is continuously drop ping, paid advertising has been the life-saving option for most businesses.

The two major digital advertising plat forms available today is social media and Google ads.

Both advertising platforms are great for reaching out to your target audience and promoting your business.

But for small businesses with limited advertising budget, the question is: which platform brings the best ROI?

The answer is – it depends. Social media and Google are great advertising avenues, but one can be better than the other depend ing on your goals, your audience, and your budget.

Let’s look at the advantages and disadvan tages of each platform to help you decide where to invest your advertising dollars.

Paid search vs paid social

Paid search is a tested advertising strategy that revolves around the use of keywords. The user types in the query on the search bar, then Google (or some other search engine) comes up with the most relevant results. At the top of these organic results, you’ll see the ads that match your search.

Paid social, on the other hand, allows marketers to target specific social media users based on their social media profiles and activities.

Main differences between PPC and social media ads

• Format – Google ads come mainly in text format. The ads are shown when doing a query and are located at the top of the organic search results. Social media ads, on the other hand, can be text, images, videos, slide show, or a mix of these media formats.

• Targeting – Google is equipped with laser-targeting features to present ads to the right potential buyers. You can target users based on the time of the day, keywords used, device used, or even browsing history. Social media ads, on the other hand, target audiences based on profile parameters, such as gender, age, location, likes, interests, job, and others.

• Cost – The average cost per click for a Google ad is $1-$2. Social media ads, on the other hand, can cost as low as $1. However, take note that PPC measures clicks while social ads measure impres sions.

Which is better?

At the end of the day, you need to look at where you customers are, the type of message you want to send across, and how much you want to spend, before deciding between Google ads and social media ads, to complement other advertising you may do, such as in the Weekender !

Cancer

To help understand how

do this, please

the QR code below, call us on

or go to guide.cancersupport.org.au

Where they care about your hair!

With over 35 years in the hairdress ing industry, Kim Schwartz is leading Truffles Hair to make a difference both for their clients, and for the environment.

Being a family-owned salon, Ms Schwartz says that her business prides itself on being honest and transparent with its clients.

“We think it’s really important to explain that everything has a process – you can’t do it all overnight,” she said.

But, it’s also about making them look and feel amazing, both during their service, and when they step out the door with their new ‘do.

“We treat our clients’ hair as if it’s their crown,” she said.

“If I wouldn’t use a product on my own hair, I wouldn’t use it on a client’s hair.”

For Ms Schwartz, it’s not all about the hair, with Truffles Hair being an active business

in the community for many years – adver tising with My88 FM and fundraising for the Cancer Council.

Recently, they’ve taken the next step in doing their part for the community, and the world around them, having become a Sustainable Salon. Being a Sustainable Salon means that all of the waste produced at the salon, including hair, is disposed of into different bins, allowing for them to be recycled or repurposed accordingly.

All salon metals and paper, for example, are sold for recycling, with the proceeds donated to OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest to provide meals for those in need.

“There’s a lot of waste in the hairdressing industry. We’re just doing our bit to reduce the impact,” Ms Schwartz said.

Truffles Hair has recently been nominated once again in the Local Business Awards, for the sixth year in a row.

SPONSORED CONTENT

PENRITH CITY LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Hollywood has the Oscars and the music industry has the Grammys – but for Penrith businesses, the annual night of nights is Tuesday, Octo ber 25 and Wednesday, October 26.

Today is the day when nominees for the 2022 Penrith City Local Business Awards discover if they have made it as a finalist.

The Western Weekender, which has supported the awards as media partner for many years, is announcing the finalists in each category with a special feature in today’s paper.

This is a chance for customers and clients to see if the businesses they nominated have become finalists.

The Penrith City Local Business Awards are only possible with the support of Presenting Partners, Commonwealth Bank and Major Partners, Panthers Penrith and NOVA Employment and Support Partners, Westfield Penrith, Nepean Village, Penrith Homemaker Centre, Southlands Shopping Centre, Nepean Regional Security, Bx Network ing, Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce and White Key Marketing.

Shaun Stevens, Commonwealth Bank’s Head of Small Business for NSW and ACT, said: “Small businesses play a critical role in fuelling our economy and building community spirit. Over a challenging and unpredictable few years, they have demonstrated remarkable passion, determination and resilience and we are thrilled to be helping recognise the contri butions of this vibrant group of inspiring individuals. On behalf of my team and all of us at CommBank, congratulations to the finalists and wishing you all the best in this year’s awards program. We’re looking forward to celebrating your achievements on the night.”

Precedent Productions Managing Direc tor and Awards founder Steve Loe said the awards presentation evenings to be held at Panthers Penrith would be very popular.

“The awards evening is always a glitter ing event, where our finalists dress up and let their hair down for an evening of enter tainment, good food, relaxed conversation – and, of course, celebration,” he said.

“Just being there as a finalist is a huge achievement, and it is a great opportunity for business people and their teams to reflect on their successes with a fun night out.”

Mr Loe said the high quality of all nomi nees had made the job of judges a great pleasure but also immensely difficult.

“To be a finalist at the presentation evening is a huge achievement and every one is always extremely proud to be there,” he said.

“The cheers from the entire crowd are deafening as everyone celebrates the achievement of all the businesses in the room.”

“I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Penrith City Local Business Awards to congratulate all the finalists on their achievements.

“I would also like to thank the Penrith City community for the enormous support they show for their local businesses through the Awards every year.

For more information about the Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusines sawards.com.au.

Read on to see the finalists.

Proud Partner of the

Awards.

Last year’s event in Penrith.

Winners celebrate at last year’s Local Business Awards in Penrith.

ALL FINALISTS

Antiques, Art, Crafts & Gifts

• 2nd Childhood Toys and Collectables

• Candle House Collection

• Clover Fields

• Duck In

• Heirloom Body Care

• Homespot South Penrith –Southlands Shopping Centre

• Polly’s Beads – Táttersálls Centre

• Stateside Sports – Westfield Penrith

• The Gifting Emporium

• Twinkle Toes Baby Hands and Feet Sculpture – Blue Mountains and Penrith

Automotive Services

• Armour Automotive

• Carwise LDV

• Emu Car Care

• Merv Shipp Smash Repairs

• Peachtree Car Detailing

• Penrith City Tyres and Automotive

• Superior Autoworks 24 Hour Mobile Mechanic Western Sydney

• Wow Car Buffing & Ceramic Paint Protection

Bakery/Cake Business

• Bake & Decorate

• Bakers Delight – Nepean Village

• Buttered Up Cakery

• Donut King – Nepean Village

• Donut King – Southlands Shopping Centre

• Leyahs Cakes and Desserts

• Mrs C’s Cupcakes

• Nishee Cakes

• Pasticerria Dolce Bella – Glenmore Park Town Centre

• Poles Patisserie – Nepean Village

• Profiterole Patisserie Penrith

• Pupalicious

• Stafford Bakery Beauty Services

• Ace of Spades Luxury Beauty

• Chontelle Cosmetic Injector

• Dollhouse Clinic

• Essential Aesthetics

• Eudaimonia Beauty

• Flawless Nail Studio and Training

• Gabriel Barbers HQ

• Glam Hair By Kez

• GlamGloire | Beauty Salon in Penrith

• Holly Brooke Beauty

• KL Boss Brows and Beauty

• Lilly Cosmetic Clinic

• Luxe Cosmetic Tattooing & Skin Therapy

• Luxe Lash and Beauty Boutique

• MK Haus Of Beauty

• Retreat to Beauty – Penrith

• So Glamorous

• The Day Spa Penrith –Jorja James Spa

Butcher/Delicatessen

• Chop Butchery – Nepean Village

• Chop Butchery – Westfield Penrith

• Gourmet Meat Company

• K & A Quality Meats – Southlands Shopping Centre

• Mastercut Family Meats – Glenmore Park Town Centre

• Sutcliffe Meats – Nepean Village Cafe

• C Spot

• Cafe at Lewers

• Cafe Cherry Beans – Glenmore Park Town Centre

• Cafe Fred – Penrith

• Cafe Upstairs

• Caffe & Co

• Caffe Cherry Beans – Glenmore Park Town Centre

• Fibonacci Coffee – Southlands Shopping Centre

• High St. Depot

• Piccolo Me – Penrith

• The Brew Lab Cafe

• The Mountain Grind

• XS Espresso Emu Hall

Dental Services

• Bella Dental Penrith – Southlands Shopping Centre

• Hall Family Denture Clinic

• No Gaps Dental – Penrith

• Penrith Dental Clinic

• Penrith Dentists Anthony Boyden & Associates

• Smith Street Dental Surgery

• The Caddens Dental Bar

• Wisdom Denture Clinic

Early Childhood Centre

• All 4 Kids Kindergarten

• Bright Minds Academy – Cranebrook

• Bright Minds Academy – Waterside

• Cranebrook Community Preschool

• Empower Early Learning Group

• Explore and Develop –Glenmore Park

• Green Garden Childcare Penrith

• Kradle 2 Krayons Child Care Centre

• Learning Adventures @ Kingswood

• Meek’s Preschool & ELC

• Penrith Montessori Academy Child Care

• Sweetpeas Kindergarten and Long Day Care

• Wiggles and Giggles Childcare Centre – Cranebrook

• Wiggles and Giggles Childcare Centre – Leonay Shopping Centre

Education Service

• Aced It Tutoring

• Beyond the Beanstalk

• FAQ Business Training

• Fork Skills Operations

• Shaolin Martial Arts Centres

• The Hair and Beauty Academy

• Unique Team Training

Fast Food/Takeaway

• Ali Baba – Westfield Penrith

• Boost Juice

• Dino’s Pizza – Southlands Shopping Centre

• HEI WOK – Glenmore Park Town Centre

• House of GRK

• Muffin Break – Westfield Penrith

• Oporto Glenmore Park

• Pappa Charlies Bakehouse

• Southlands Takeaway – Southlands Shopping Centre

• The Costi’s Fresh & Cooked –Nepean Village

Fitness Services

• Body by Unique Bodz

• Cruz Fitness

• DNA Fitness

• KMA Penrith

• Machete Muay Thai

• MM FIT & Training

• Punch’n’Crunch

• Revolutions Health &;Fitness Centre

– Emu Plains

• Stepz Fitness Penrith –Nepean Village

• Sweat by Set Fitness

• True Exercise Science

• World Gym – Penrith

• Zoo Fitness – Penrith

Florist

• Beautiful Blooms Floral Boutique

• Emu Florist – Lennox Village

• Kingswood Florist

• Nepean Flower Shop –Glenmore Park Town Centre

• The Flower Pursuit

• Your Floral Indulgence

Fruit & Vegetable Shop

• Box Divvy Emu Plains – Short Street

• Box Divvy South Penrith – Greenway

• Freshworld Fruit Market –Nepean Village

• Martin’s Fruit World

• Trims Fresh – Westfield Penrith

Hairdresser

• Glam N Glow

• Hair By Emma G

• Hair by Leiyah

• Hair by Sarah

• Imperial Hair Studio

• Insignia Hair &; Day Spa

• J’aime Hair

• Lauraj Hair Design

• lauraj hairdesign

• MANE by Rebecca Jayne

• Switch The Salon

• The Cabello Room

• The County Barbershop

• The Edit Hair Studio –Westfield Penrith

• Truffle’s Hair – Southlands Shopping Centre

Health Improvement Services

• Ability Hub Services

• Complete Allied Health Care –Penrith

• Cosmetic Culture

• Evolution Medical Care

• Eyewear Central – Westfield Penrith

• High Street Medical Imaging

• Hypnoga

• Independent Living Specialists

• Muscle & Mind Massage Therapy

• Myhealth – Westfield Penrith

• South Penrith Physio – Southlands Shopping Centre

• Southlands Family Doctors –Southlands Shopping Centre

• The Healthy Body Company

• Thrive Remedial Massage by Emma Rose

• Western Sydney Physiotherapy and Allied Health

Home–Based Business

• Affordable Conveyancing Solutions –Cranebrook

• Alycia Marie Biscuits

• Beauty by Brooke

• Boxed to Perfection

• Dare to Dream Balloons & Face Art

• Golden Goddess Beauty and Tanning

• Honey Graphics –Design and Branding

• Kitchen@Poynting

• KMG Creative Designs

• My Sweet Dreams

• Yum Artisan Creations

Proud partner of Penrith City Local Business Awards.

PENRITH CITY 2022

Home Furniture & Furnishings

• Curtain Wonderland –Penrith Homemaker Centre

• Fantastic Furniture – Penrith Homemaker Centre

• Forty Winks –Penrith Homemaker Centre

• Handcrafted Timber Solutions

• Living Timber Co

• OZ Design Furniture –Penrith Homemaker Centre

• Prestige Floor

• Provincial Home Living –Penrith Homemaker Centre

• The Sleeping Giant –Penrith Homemaker Centre

Jewellery Store

• Angus & Coote Jewellers – Westfield Penrith

• Goldmark – Westfield Penrith

• Goldmark Jewellers –Westfield Penrith

• Penrith Jewellery Workshop –Westfield Penrith

• Prouds the Jewellers –Nepean Village

• Prouds The Jewellers –Westfield Penrith

• Starco Jewellers – Westfield Penrith

• Viola Jewellers –Glenmore Park Town Centre

• York Jewellers – Westfield Penrith

Most Inclusive Employer

• Bluescope Steel

• Paddles

• Penrith RSL Club

• Piccolo Me – Penrith

• Recycle Assist

• Up Hire

New & Used Motor Vehicles

• Great Western Honda

• Great Western Kia

• Heartland Holden – Penrith

• Penrith Mazda Centre

• Penrith Toyota

• Sinclair Automotive – Kingswood

New Business

• C.A Cosmetic Studio

• Crystal homes

• Face Clinik

• Flawless Laser Solutions

• Ivy League Tutoring

• Liberty Allstars

• Price Lane Clearance–Designer Warehouse OutletPO

• RAW Group Co.

• Shamrock Handyman & Cleaning Services

• Share My Ability

• The Ultimate Occasion

Performing Arts

• Alina W Music

• All Star Dance & Entertainment Studio

• Blockwork Dance Studios

• Dance Cirque

• Excite Dance and Cheer

• Penrith Physical Culture Club

• Performance Art Western Sydney (PAWS)

Pet Care

• Animal Wellness and Behaviour

• Dandy Dog Training

• Dirty Dawgz

• Greencross Vets Coreen Avenue

• K9 Central

• Lil' Rascals Pet Services

• Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital

• Penrith Veterinary Hospital

• Pooch Pawfection

• Trendy Tails Dog Grooming & TCM Animal Therapy

• Zoe On The Go Mobile Pet Care Pharmacy

• Blooms The Chemist –Nepean Village

• Blooms the Chemist –Westfield Penrith

• Chemist Warehouse – Penrith Homemaker Centre

• Grose's Pharmacy

• Kingswood Compounding Pharmacy

• MediADVICE Pharmacy – Glenmore Park Town Centre

• Priceline Pharmacy – Southlands Shopping Centre

• TerryWhite Chemmart Caddens Corner

Professional Services

• Amity IT

• Clear Path Accounting

• Conveyancing Simplified

• Cordwell Financial

• DreamStoneHR

• Finesse Financial Advisers

• Gentle Procedures

Vasectomy Clinic

• Great Southern Bank –Westfield Penrith

• Kilara and Associates

• Novus Law Group

• Pixflix Productions

• Pixite

• Reynolds Lending Solutions

• SCB Legal

• The Loans Suite

Real Estate Agency

• Bespoke Realty Group –Penrith & Glenmore Park

• Dukes Estate Agents

• iSelect Realty Group

• LJ Hooker Commercial – Penrith

• Raine & Horne

• Real Homes Realty

• Southlands Estate Agents –Southlands Shopping Centre

• Stanton and Taylor Real Estate

• Starr Partners – Penrith

• Wiseberry – Penrith Restaurant

• Chechos

• Emu Hall

• Enzo’s Cucina –Glenmore Park Town Centre

• Goji Modern Asian Cuisine

• Happy Inn Chinese Restaurant

• Lakeside Restaurant – Sydney International Regatta Centre

• Mr Watkins

• Nando’s – Westfield Penrith

• Osso Steak and Ribs –Penrith Panthers

• Tamleni

• The Lamp Post

• The Union Restaurant

• Tins and Wood

Service & Trade

• Amabile Brothers Concrete

• ATS Awnings & Additions

• B&G Enterprises

• Ballard’s Plumbing

• Bentley’s Wardrobes & Kitchens –Quality Kitchen & Cabinet Design Penrith

• Boss Trim

• Craig’s Property Solutions

• Immerse Plumbing & Gas Services

• Kennect Electrical Services

• Kitchen Vision

• Koala Landscapes Sydney

• Roof Ranger

• Rositano Kitchens and Joinery

• Shipways Effective Plumbing

• Wright Way Plumbing and Civil

Sole Operator

• Affordable Mortgage Solutions

• Annice Kathleen Photography

• BIGBADBOX

• Blissful Babies

• EcoKleenSolar Nepean

• InTouch Photography

• Justine Milne Celebrant

• Neds Airport Shuttle Service

• Sara Louise Photography

• The Colour Blue Hairdressing

Specialised Business

• Alarm and Surveillance Group

• All–Flow Fire Protection

• BE HUMBLE sit down

• Effective Plan Management

• Luxe Props

• MoneyQuest Penrith & Blue Mountains

• My Ability Care

• Ree Creative

• Southlands Newsagency –Southlands Shopping Centre

• Sydney Gazebo and Bali Huts

• The Creative Fringe

• Tiny Tinker Play Hire

• Titanium Traffic Plans

• True Value Outdoor Blinds Pty Ltd

• VCLA Media

• Velocity Performing Arts

• WOTSO WorkSpace

Specialised Retail Business

• Australia Post – Southlands Shopping Centre

• Belle & Co Kids

• Belle and Co Kids –Westfield Penrith

• Betts Penrith – Westfield Penrith

• Bras N Things – Westfield Penrith

• Cignall Nepean Tobacconist –Nepean Village

• Cotton On Kids– Penrith

• EB Games – Nepean Village

• Forcast Clothing – Westfield Penrith

• Gajanand Spices

• Just Jeans Penrith

• Lorna Jane – Westfield Penrith

• Phone Care Station –Southlands Shopping Centre

• Priceline – Westfield Penrith

• Shampoo With A Purpose

• The Source Bulk Foods Glenmore Park

• Visage Boutique –Táttersálls Centre

• Werrington County Australia Post

Tourism & Experiences

• Cables Wake Park

• iFLY Indoor Skydiving

• Ingenia Holidays Nepean River

• itravel Penrith

• Narrow Escape Rooms

• Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler

• Throw Axe

BAKERY/CAKE BUSINESS

Mrs C’s CupCakes can cater for any personal or corporate event. All products are freshly baked in store. We create unique cupcakes, cakes and slices in a variety of flavours to suit any occasion - wedding, engagement, birthday, baby shower, christening, graduation, office party, etc. No request is too big or too small.

The best feedback we get from customers is “it tasted so good too”. We don’t want our products to just look pretty; they need to taste great too. We also have a range of different cupcake flavours in store daily.

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

Armour Automotive provides a full one stop service centre for most vehicles. We work on everything from 1950’s MG and Wolseley to 2022 vehicles. We have particular expertise in diesel vehicles which means we have vehicles brought to us from all over the state. Our company ethic is to give the best possible experience to our customers with quality work and honesty in all our dealings. Our female service advisors have a very broad knowledge base and are able to assist clients from the first contact. Our technicians are all highly trained and have over 75 years combined experience in the industry. Our industry, as many others, has a severe shortage of skilled technicians and to this end we have been training apprentices for more than 20 years because we believe this is the only way to ensure quality technicians in the future. We are a family owned and run business and pride ourselves on becoming an important part of our customers lives.

A: 22 - 24

4731 2161

MRS

ACE OF SPADES LUXURY BEAUTY

2022 FINALIST BEAUTY SERVICES

Ace of Spades Luxury Beauty specialises in many services including but not limited to high quality hair extensions using ethically sourced Slavic hair that undergoes an extensive quality control process and a professional grade hair care range that is used and supplied in some of Australia’s most pristine salons. Ace of Spades Luxury Beauty is forever growing, we continue to add more services for our growing client list and welcome new highly trained staff to our team.

Our team includes passionate and skilled professionals to cover all aspects of Beauty from Hair, Cosmetic tattooing & injectables to create the ultimate one stop shop.

Our Training programs available to the public are courses that cover a range of services including keratin bonds and Eye Lash Extensions, these courses assist other in expanding their skill set to offer their customers quality services. We are overly excited to announce our new Salon “Ace of Spades Luxury Beauty Wollongong” will be opening in November 2022, our Open Day plans will be shared with all our clients, if you would like to attend, please follow us on Instagram for our Open Day announcements.

A new Salon brings new opportunity in the hair and beauty industry to the Illawarra area to join a strong professional team, we are very excited to join a new community and grow our fabulous Ace of Spades Luxury Beauty Family.

Ace of Spades has been nominated as a finalist in the Local Business Awards for 2022, we could not be happier for this nomination after all the hard work we have put in the over the years to provide our clients with exceptional customer service and a genuine family feeling.

The recent years we have been heavily impacted with the rest of our community by the global pandemic, we have seen local businesses struggle and support each other, we are overwhelmed by the nomination and we strongly apricate our clients’ votes.

2022 FINALIST BEAUTY SERVICES

GABRIEL BARBERS- Disturbing the Barber game. At Gabriel barbers, our top priority is to ensure that our valued customers walk out happy.

Come in for a game of pool, receive a complimentary drink and get a 5 star treatment from our professional barbers.

A: SHOP 151, LEVEL 1, 585 HIGH STREET, PENRITH P: 4722 5011 | W: GABRIELBARBERS.COM.AU

2022 FINALIST

BUTCHER/DELI

Searching for that cut that really stands out from the rest ? Than look no further than CHOP Butchery. Our friends at Five Founders have once again not let us down.

Over 140 years of ethically raising their Cattle in a fertile land environment to craft the finest quality Carbon Neutral Beef for you to enjoy.

From the day it was born, Chop Butchery’s mission has been quite simple: to combine the most delicious, highquality meat and food products with an exceptional experience and service, both through over the counter at our physical and online.

Today, Chop Butchery is seen as a destination for those looking to elevate their food experience. From everyday families all the way to food enthusiasts and food professionals. We attribute our success and market recognition to a true passion and love for the best meat and food products and a deep understanding of what customer service excellence looks like

A: PENRITH WESTFIELD, SHOP 013, 585 HIGH ST, PENRITH P: 4284 3084 | W: CHOPBUTCHERY.COM.AU

2022 FINALIST DENTAL SERVICES

Since 1981, Anthony Boyden and his team have been delivering the highest standards of general, preventive and cosmetic dental services to patients from Penrith and surrounding areas.

Passionate about helping our community achieve and maintain excellent dental health for life, we have treated many of our adult patients since childhood, and are proud to now treat their children as well!

Conveniently located in the heart of Penrith, across High Street from Westfield, we are just a short walk from Penrith Station. Over the past four decades, thousands of happy patients have helped us build a reputation for delivering honest, high quality treatment with the utmost care. We look forward to doing the same for you.

A: 16/566

2022 FINALIST

EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRE

We are a 42-place childcare centre set on two acres of beautiful semi-rural property in Berkshire Park, proudly, family owned and operated.

Our growth since opening in 2017 has been remarkable. Winning many awards for excellence in education and achieving an Exceeding Rating from the Department of Education for the highest possible level of Education and Care.

With a fully qualified Early Childhood Teacher boasting 30 years industry experience overseeing the curriculum and 14 of our educators contributing to the program development, it’s easy to see why we can guarantee the children are ready to enter Kindergarten confident, capable and well prepared.

2022 FINALIST EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRE

Mamalove Connect was born in my lounge room. A room that had become our bedroom due to our little one’s sleeping difficulties. My mission was to promote therapy tools for children who didn’t have access to them, support for parents who like us hadn’t had any sleep in years and to find a place within the community where we could really make a difference.

By the end of 2018 we had reached roughly 100 families in the in dividual items we had donated and group items to organisations such as Cranebrook Community Pre School, Nepean Speech and OT and the Penrith Community Health Centre.

72-74

STREET,

2022 FINALIST

EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRE

We believe that children are better prepared for learning when they are in a happy, safe and supportive environment. We recognise that all children are unique and encourage them to grow into confident and well balanced individuals.

At Learning Adventures @ Kingswood, we aim to provide children with the opportunity to participate in a wide range of daily experiences to motivate them as learners in a safe and stimulating environment whilst ensuring that children experience a strong sense of security and belonging.

P

R I T H D E

DNA FITNESS

SHAOLIN MARTIAL ARTS CENTRE

2022 FINALIST EDUCATION SERVICES

Shaolin Martial Arts Centre has been a full time martial arts school in Werrington County since 2017. We specialise in teaching our students fast and effective methods of self protection and incorporate into our children’s classes not only martial arts but aspects of Personal Awareness, Stranger Danger, Fire Safety and how to use your voice. Our adults classes incorporate skills from Kung Fu & Chinese Kickboxing and Close Quarter Combat mixed with Risk Management, CPTED (Crime prevention through environmental design) and personal security principles. We offer a 1 free week trial so contact us today to start your journey of martial education.

A: 1/201 DUNHEVED RD, WERRINGTON (ABOVE ANYTIME FITNESS)

P: 0438 092 049 | W: SMACKUNGFU.COM.AU

2022 FINALIST

FITNESS SERVICES

The overall goal of the team at DNA is to build a community that is all-inclusive, whilst promoting a healthy mind and body and enabling a competitive spirit.

There is something for everyone at DNA fitness, from stretching, mobility and core to explosive and dynamic movements with a heavy focus on compound movements using a variety of equipment including barbells / dumbbells and kettle bells and the list goes on.

While there are plenty of gyms out there, DNA Fitness has created a community where every member shows up for not only themselves but their team.

A: UNIT C, 1 SALMON CLOSE, CRANEBROOK INSTA: @DNA____FITNESS | W: DNAFITNESS.NET.AU

trainer

help

increase

confidence and become happier. I had always been that girl who was too skinny. I was ashamed to look in the mirror. I tried to binge eat as much as I could. Feeling like that was horrible and depressing. One day I thought enough is enough. I decided to hire a coach to teach me how to control diet and a PT. In 12 months I got to my goals. Because of that my confidence increased. I was happier. Now I work every day to get my clients to their goals.

2022 FINALIST HAIRDRESSER

At Truffle’s Hair we are a skilled team of hardworking and passionate hairdressers. We believe that hair is the crown of every beautiful individual, and it needs to be treated as if it is the centerpiece of your appearance. The team thrives in creating confidence and happiness in each and every client, taking special care and time when it comes to transforming every wonderful person that walks into the salon.

We would like to thank everyone who has voted for us this year and looking forward to pamper you all soon.

SWEAT BY SET FITNESS

TRUFFLE’S HAIR

THE SALON

2022 FINALIST HAIRDRESSER

Switch the salon is a salon which combines a dreamy high-end experience alongside beautiful hair, wellness and relaxation. It has a clean, minimalist aesthetic that feels fresh and classic. Keeping a neutral palette gives the space a calm energy one that everyone feels comfortable in.

Our range of award-winning and iconic global brands allows us to offer products to suit the needs of customers to support long lasting beautiful hair.

Co-owners Julie and Jacqueline share their strengths, passion, expertise and love for their craft. For the last 12years they have lead a highly trained and skilled team having confidence in all aspects of hairdressing.

Julie and Jacqueline both have 25years industry experience. Their love for education and continuously updating their knowledge shows by bringing you the very best in hair.

A: 181 SMITH ST, SOUTH PENRITH

P: 4722 6366 | W: SWITCHTHESALON.COM.AU

2022 FINALIST HEALTH IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

Life gets busy and we continue to have more to do and less time to do it. Wellness is at the forefront of our minds however we often lack the time to tend to our health. Or if we find the time, we often lack the mental energy to do anything about it.

Hypnoga® is a powerful practise that combines the wisdoms of Yoga and Hypnosis. Ancient in its origins yet contemporary in its application. Proven methods to engage the body, empower the mind and provide total relaxation. Just like a superfood ‘packs-a-punch’ full of goodness for the body, Hypnoga® is like a superfood for those of us who are time poor and seek the ‘one-stopshop’ for Mind-Body-Spirit Integration.

Time efficient and potent, Hypnoga® engages the body through movement of yoga poses & empowers the mind through guided hypnosis. The outcome? Alignment of the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of who we truly are.

A: 1A/49-51 YORK ST, SOUTH PENRITH

P: 0404 095 095 | W: HYPNOGA.ORG

HYPNOGA

LTD

Heidi Stenschke

Founder of Hypnoga ®

MYHEALTH MEDICAL CENTRE PENRITH

2022 FINALIST HEALTH IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

Myhealth Penrith is a Medical Centre conveniently located on Level 1 in Westfield Penrith.

This centre offers the highest standard of medical care with state-ofthe-art facilities. We pride ourselves in offering a friendly, convenient, accessible and professional service to all our patients.

We offer a full range of medical services with physiotherapy, pathology and other comprehensive allied health services onsite. Myhealth Penrith is an appointment run clinic, however, walk-ins will be fit into the next available appointment where possible and also offer online bookings

A: SHOP

1

BRANDING

2022 FINALIST HOME-BASED BUSINESS

Honey Graphics is a home-based business, run solely by me, Jamie! We’ve proudly been named your “one-stop small biz shop!” Since establishing in 2018 Honey Graphics quickly grew a fantastic local client base.

We specialise in logo design, business & loyalty cards, gift certificates and upgrading your current social presentation with custom graphics, custom price lists, templates of all kinds and even business & beauty uniforms, custom printed with heat transfer vinyl and digital printing.

We offer small businesses - just like us, cost-effective prices and we strive on providing the best quality.

2022 FINALIST HOME BASED BUSINESS

Affordable Conveyancing Solutions is a locally owned and operated business which has been servicing Penrith and its surrounding areas for over 10 years. Valerie, the licensee, has over 20 years’ experience in the conveyancing field, assisting her clientele with all manner of conveyancing needs from purchasing your first dream home to selling the house that you made your home.

Whatever your conveyancing needs, give Valerie and her team a call at Affordable Conveyancing Solutions. Phone 4729 3347 or 0414 256 924 for an obligation free quote.

W: AFFORDABLECONVEYANCINGSOLUTIONS.COM.AU P: 4729 3347

PROUDS THE

2022 FINALIST JEWELLERY STORE

Prouds the Jewellers has been part of Australia’s history for over 110 years and their buying power means they can provide the best quality of jewellery.

Prouds offers a complete range of gold and silver jewellery, watches and giftware for any occasion and is the largest jeweller in Australia. Prouds also features a stunning collection of diamond jewellery and new seasons styles.

Prouds have qualified and friendly staff to assist with all your needs and is the trusted name for jewellery.

A: 268/585

are an Australian owned and operated hire company supplying Elevating Work Platform and Materials Handling equipment from leading manufacturers to the community. At Uphire, we are dedicated to investing into smarter machines to enable a higher safety, sustainability, and productivity standard across every worksite. Our values incorporated into our business are pushed towards increasing the standards and sharing our skills and knowledge with everyone.

would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, community, and customers for always supporting us. We are very excited to be nominated as a finalist for Local business Awards 2022.

2022 FINALIST NEW BUSINESS

is a boutique aesthetic studio located in the heart of Penrith in Western Sydney. We specialise in medical grade, non-surgical, cosmetic injectable treatments.

goal is to help every person that walks through our doors feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

we provide personalised, goal orientated treatments to enhance your natural features and have you looking and feeling your very best.

treatments are performed with precision and care. Our clinic

the most advanced technology in the medical field to deliver

results to every person.

2022 FINALIST

NEW BUSINESS

and

of

and

to all

2022 FINALIST NEW & USED MOTOR VEHICLES

Sinclair Automotive in Kingswood was established in 1969 by Ross Sinclair and now is under the experienced leadership of our Dealer Principal John Cooper.

Sinclair Automotive is over 100 employees strong, most of them are locals, and many have been with the company for more than 10 years.

Now proudly representing Ford, Isuzu UTE & SsangYong, our vision is to provide the very best possible service to all our customers, that’s why at Sinclair Automotive we don’t just sell cars we gain new family members.

A: 117-121

WESTERN HWY, KINGSWOOD NSW

4721 9100 | W: SINCLAIRAUTOMOTIVE.COM.AU

2022 FINALIST PET CARE

Camille and all the staff at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital are so grateful to be nominated to be finalists by our fantastic clients.

We have the best clients that appreciate our level of care and service, which we are thankful for.

Without our clients support, it would just be a job. Our staff truly love what they do, so we do not work a day in our lives!

We are so happy for the continued support and friendship of our clients and their pets. We won the Pet Care category in 2015, 2016, 2019 and 2021, and we are looking forward to the 2022 awards presentation!

A: 49-63 WENTWORTH ROAD, ORCHARD

4736

W:

2022

PERFORMING ARTS

PAWS Studios is dedicated to creating confident kids through the performing arts. With a huge range of classes from ballet to circus, hip hop to acrobatics and even singing and drama we have something to suit every child.

Our focus is always to give kids self worth, a sense of accomplishment and a family that they can depend on. Starting with our mummy and me class at just one year old and catering for every age group even our over 55 and fabulous tap class PAWS is a great place to be!

2022 FINALIST PHARMACY

to

Hours

8:30pm

2022 FINALIST PROFESSIONAL

Our mission is to empower our clients with the clarity and direction they need to build their perfect business, to live their happiest lives. It is such a privilege to know that our particular approach has positively impacted the lives of our clients and gratifying to know we have this opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing of the Penrith business community. We are certainly not your typical accountants... Yes, we take care of tax and compliance issues but it’s where the box-ticking ends and the advisory services begin that sets us apart.

Thank you to all our wonderful clients who constantly strive for business excellence and for trusting us to help you achieve your goals. This nomination is a win for all.

FINESSE FINANCIAL ADVISERS

2022 FINALIST

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

There are many intersections in lifeandfinancial advice isuseful at those turning points. We’re your local money & life experts. We’ll show you how to get the most from your money, so you can enjoy the richness of life.

We have brand new offices in Penrith CBD and we’re dedicated to providing life changing financial advice to the people of the Penrith area. We’re grateful for your support, and thanks to our amazing team.

If you are curious about how Financial Advice will assist you, dropin for one of Genene’s books, tune into My88 on Monday with Madeleine “Girls Just Wanna” talk about all things money, or call 1300 026 800 to book an appointment.

A: 6/438 HIGH STREET, PENRITH

P: 1300 026 800 | W: FINESSEADVISERS.COM

HAPPY INN CHINESE

2022 FINALIST RESTAURANT

Established since 1984, the most well known Chinese restaurant in Penrith, seats up to 120 people, private function room (no hire charge), excellent Chinese cuisine, well known for specialities such as Empress fillet steak, Cantonese chicken, sliced pork with pine nuts, seafood & san choi bow. Catering for all functions, offering international cuisine for children too.

Open 7 days lunch & dinner, discount on take-away & home delivery (limited area). All major credit cards accepted, recently expanded and fully refurbished.

A: 401 HIGH STREET, PENRITH

P: 4731 5352 | W: HAPPYINN.COM.AU

GOJI MODERN ASIAN CUISINE

2022 FINALIST RESTAURANT

Goji would like to thank our loyal customers for nominating us as a Finalist in the Local Business Awards for 2022, we are truly humbled.

At Goji, the vision is to bring a fusion of exotic flavours from across Asia to the beautiful atmosphere of the Nepean River. With locally sourced produce, We craft exquisite dishes that can be matched with the hand selected list of local and international wines. Look into the open kitchen, where flaming woks turn fresh, high quality ingredients into mouth-watering meals. Watch the noodle chef stretch out by hand your noodles minutes before they arrive at your table. Dumplings are meticulously handmade each day in the Goji kitchen, with the finest ingredients.

From the many cocktails on hand to the desserts you will enjoy such an awesome dining experience @ Goji Asian restaurant. With the exciting news of the soon to be open Goji Sydney Restaurant and Bar.

A: 78-88 TENCH AVENUE, JAMISONTOWN

P: 0416 914 562 | W: GOJIRESTAURANT.COM.AU

2022 FINALIST RESTAURANT

We

an array of

flavourful Indian cuisine, available to dine in or take

many years to come.

With over 35 years experience in the industry,

provide

complete service for kitchen, bathroom, laundry renovations

custom joinery such as alfresco areas, home office, wall units and vanities.

2022 FINALIST RESTAURANT

We would like to thank you all for nominating us again for the Local Business Awards.

We are proud to offer a wide range of traditional pizzas, pastas and grills.

This makes it ideal for a quick lunch, business lunches, leisurely dinner or special occasions.

will enjoy a beautiful atmosphere in a rural setting where you can sit back and relax.

2022 FINALIST SOLE OPERATOR

A celebrant that is enthusiastic, modern and vibrant with fresh ideas to bring laughter to your ceremony! With nine years industry experience Justine guides you on your big day. See what Rhiannon (bride) had to say:

“From our meetings, to the ceremony Justine made all of this feel so relaxed and natural. She was amazing during our ceremony, it felt like us. Justine wrote an amazing story & nailed it!

knowledge, quality workmanship, professionalism and outstanding customer service.

to be

and and the

ourselves on

in the

for their

and thank

We received so many compliments on Justine and people asked us if we had known her for a very long time as that is what it came across as.

Justine exceeded our expectations. If anyone is ever looking for a celebrant I’ll be sending them her way.”

KITCHEN

2022 FINALIST SOLE OPERATOR

Sara the owner is on the autism spectrum and a survivor of domestic and family violence.

Sara Louise Photography is a non-discriminative photography service and business. We really do not turn anyone away and offer many services from small event, boudoir, business and so forth.

One of the many reasons behind Sara Louise Photography success besides talent is customer service, our ability to work with our clients’ budgets, ideas and show patience. Sara Louise Photography also tends to not follow the trends of others in our line of work. We strive to be different and go above and beyond.

EFFECTIVE PLAN MANAGEMENT

2022 FINALIST SPECIALISED BUSINESS

Effective Plan Management is a NDIS registered provider who solely provides Plan Management services.

The purpose and motivation behind Effective Plan Management is to deliver a simple, effective NDIS Plan Management service that gives participants control and understanding of their NDIS Plan. This is achieved through consultation, practical advice, and thorough budgeting for the NDIS Plan.

We provide dedicated plan managers to each NDIS participant to streamline communication and create a relationship, so you feel confident in the person you are working with.

We are growing our business to assist participants nationwide, with plan managers located in Western Sydney, Central Coast NSW and Mackay Qld.

A: LEVEL 1, 396 HIGH STREET, PENRITH

P: 4702

2022 FINALIST

SPECIALISED BUSINESS

The team at MoneyQuest Penrith are passionate about their clients’ interests and as locals to the Penrith region, the team have a strong connection with and understanding of the local community. If owning your own home feels like a myth (or a dream), or investing in a second property feels unachievable – we will take the time to sit down with you, assess your situation, and help you in making those dreams a reality.

Helping first home buyers and investors is only the start of what we can help with. When did you last have a review of your home loan? Are you on track to achieve your goals? Do you have a strategy to reduce your loan as quickly as possible? Do you want to secure your repayments for a period of time? No individual need is too hard to deal with, just let MoneyQuest Penrith take care of the hard work for you.

SARA LOUISE PHOTOGRAPHY

REE CREATIVE

2022 FINALIST

SPECIALISED BUSINESS

Are you a business owner that is looking to take your business to the next level?

Elevate your brand identity with the leading creative agency in the beauty industry!

Renowned in the Australian and International market for their amazing communication, fast turnaround, ability to take on feedback, high-quality output and eye for detail, Ree Creative is a boutique design and social media agency with a passion to launch, rejuvenate and elevate brands.

They offer professional and high-end services in brand and website design, luxury printing, product and business photography, social media management and more!

@REECREATIVE

WOTSO WORKSPACE

2022 FINALIST SPECIALISED BUSINESS

WOTSO is more than just a workspace, we’re a home away from home for small to medium Aussie businesses.

What started in 2014 in Neutral Bay NSW has expanded to 21 locations nationwide. At WOTSO, we pride ourselves on commitment to service, innovation and the first class working environment that we provide to the Penrith community and surrounding suburbs.

We would like to thank all of our wonderful members and the community we are a part of for nominating us again to be a Finalist in the Local Business Awards.

A: 95B STATION STREET, PENRITH

P: 1800 4 WOTSO | W: WOTSO.COM

2022 FINALIST TOURISM & EXPERIENCES

iFLY Downunder located in Penrith in Sydney’s west, was the first indoor skydiving facility in Australia. It is also the largest and most powerful indoor skydiving facility in the Southern Hemisphere!

Safe, fun and accessible for people of any ability, iFLY Downunder offers flights for first time flyers, return flyers, sport flyers, junior flyers, skydivers and the military.

We believe the impossible is possible!

Indoor skydiving is a great experience to try with friends, families, for parties, with the office or team, events and more.

The 365 degree glass tunnel allows spectators to watch and cheer on friends, family, colleagues or loved ones from front row seats.

iFLY Downunder has been the indoor skydiving hub of Australia since it opened in 2014 and is renowned for its world class instructors and coaches.

A: 123 MULGOA ROAD, PENRITH

P: 1300 435 966 | W: DOWNUNDER.IFLYWORLD.COM.AU

THE BEST OF TONI, AND THE NEXT CHAPTER

For Toni Childs, it was an open mic night in Huntington Beach that she sung at as a child which saw her driven to be involved with music forever.

“I don’t know what happened, but my little spirit just let it rip, and these words came out of my mouth, and the smattering of people that were left at the end of the day came right up to where we were playing, and they were pointing and laughing, and I got really upset. I kind of got really upset and growled even harder,” she said.

“When we stopped, everybody was like, ‘Holy shit, who are you? You sound like an

80-year-old black woman!’, and to get that, and to feel all that power in my little spirit was really quite something else.”

Toni went on to earn herself an Emmy, three Grammy nominations, and a top five hit in Australia, which was only made more special when she moved here in 2012, and became a citizen earlier this year.

“It’s great to go to the grocery store and hear your songs,” she laughed.

But, for Toni, music has always been about more than just her singing chops.

“Music and storytelling is the way I come to decide how I’m going to navigate what is the most difficult to navigate, and it’s a way of me singing my way through trauma, and it gives me a way to actually understand the impact of things,” she said.

“I think I was born feeling life a million times greater than itself, and when you feel life so full on, you need an outlet, and I think music and storytelling is my outlet.”

It’s because of this that Toni has since worked as an installation artist, and in new media and technologies, pulling those elements together to create larger productions.

In her tour, ‘The Toni Childs Retrospective’, audiences will be getting a sneak peek into her new work.

“In The Retrospective, I play all the fan favourites in the beginning, in the first hour, and I call it ‘Dessert First’,” she said.

“Then, we have an interval, and in the second half, I play music from the three productions that are rolling out this decade.”

Toni said that there’s never been a better

time to invite her fans into this new world, and it seems they can’t get enough.

“They’ll be seeing some of the animations, footage of me underwater, all of that stuff that really helps to connect the music and under stand why the new music is in the direction it is and what’s inspired it, so there’s some deep dives,” she said.

“What I love is the feedback from the shows. It’s just off the hook, it’s so fantastic. I do real ise that people are really needing to be loved up, and I really put that front and centre, and I feel like that’s being received wholeheartedly, and that’s the best!”

‘The Toni Childs Retrospective’ will be on at The Joan on Thursday, October 27 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $72. For more informa tion or to book, visit thejoan.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

It’s time to

The

9am-12pm.

any spring-clean clutter while shoppers can snag from a range of pre-loved goods, antiques, collectables, fashion, toys, bric-a-brac, jewellery, art and more. Best part? Proceeds will go towards supporting Pink Up Penrith.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.

Penrith Markets Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

November Coffee Catch Up Hosted by Penrith CBD Corporation. Wednesday, November 2. Penrith RSL from 7.30am. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au for details.

CLASSES AND FUN

Sunset Station Singers Mondays 7pm, St Marys RSL. Rhonda 0408 218 965.

The Sunset Station Singers entertain residents mainly in nursing homes. The song list is over 130 songs, ranging from their old time favourites to more current songs.

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

The Caring Hearts Community Quilters will be holding their 14th Annual Quilt Airing next Saturday, October 29 at the Arms of Australia Inn Museum, Emu Plains. On from 10am to 4pm, the day will see quilts exhibited, alongside a trading table, plant stall, Devonshire Teas, sausage sizzle and a beautiful quilt to raffle. For more information, call 0438 670 012.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Penrith Rotary Club Mondays 6.30pm. 0416 157 668. New members welcome. The Rotary Club generally meets at Penrith Bowling Club.

Penrith Lions Club

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

Cambridge Park Lions Club

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

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the second Tuesday of each month from 9am-2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

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

JP Service

Victor Glanville – 0416 157 668.

Nepean Food Services

All-age Halloween fun at Luddenham

What better way to make Halloween fun for all ages than making a trip down to the Family Spooktacular next Saturday, October 29, at Luddenham Showground. With promises of tasteful décor and frights, visitors can enjoy a night of spooky fun at the kids’ disco, rides, food trucks, stalls and more. More information can be found on trybooking.com/949521.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au.

MUSEUMS

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

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

Arms of Australia Inn Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 9am-2pm. 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains. A great place to discover the local history of Penrith.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Gamblers Anonymous Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.

Nepean Puffers & Wheezers 1800 654 301.

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

Relationships Australia

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

Crisis Sexual Assault Service

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

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

CASSIDY PEARCE

T he ‘biggest little play festival in the world’ is coming to a head this week end, when the Short+Sweet Festival finals see winners crowned after a big three days and nights of performances – and Penrith locals are taking centre stage.

St Clair’s Kate Jirelle has written, directed and will be acting in a play which she said is inspired by her own experience leaving full time teaching, with her aiming to be the voice that she’s seen many in her position struggling to find.

“‘To Those I Left Behind’ (pictured top right) at its heart is a play written by a teacher, for teachers,” she said.

“It all loops into the huge pressures that

teachers are facing at their job, and the pres sures of the administration and all of that stuff weighing down on teachers, leading to the high turnover rate we’ve seen happening within the profession.”

The moving piece represents a variety of perspectives, with Kate drawing on a number of voices she heard throughout her own jour ney.

“The play itself covers three different teach ers from different generations – one who’s fairly new, one who’s middle aged, and one who is retirement age,” she said.

“It kind of covers all three of their journeys and the different experiences and struggles that they’re each facing at the different points of their career.”

Despite their rehearsals riddled with trou bles, and their first rehearsal in person being

the tech rehearsal, ‘To Those I Left Behind’ has been chosen for the Judges’ Choice Semi Final – a feat Kate never thought she would reach.

“We didn’t actually expect to get into the finals. It was the furthest thing I was plan ning,” she said.

And, she’s not the only local finalist, with another play, ‘Oh Nanna!,’ (pictured top right) starring a complete western Sydney cast, including Ian and Rebecca Fletcher from Emu Plains, Tayah Gulyas from Cranebrook, Ken Fletcher from Penrith and Aurel Vasilescu from St Clair.

“I think there is a lot of talent in Penrith,” Kate said.

“I think that’s because of how many wonder ful community theatres we have around the area. I got my start in community theatre, I

know plenty of other actors who got their start there as well, and I think the great thing about that is that there is always a very supportive community within the Penrith area of artists, of creatives. You kind of make friends with them when you do shows, and you’re support ing each other through your careers, and I really feel that in the Penrith area.”

Kate will also be acting in ‘Red Yellow Blue’ – directed by Sheree da Costa and written by Joey Atkins – at Sunday’s Exhibition Gala.

Following Joey’s passing in 2020, his mother Sheree took the play into her own hands, directing it in his honour.

The Short+Sweet Festival finals will be on from Friday, October 21 to Sunday, October 23, including the semi-finals, gala grand final and awards. For more information or to book, head to shortandsweet.org/sydney.

A whopping 44 years after the original ‘Halloween’ film, starring a then 19-year-old Jamie Lee Curtis, was released, the latest –and potentially – final instalment of the Mi chael Myers vs Laurie Strode saga comes to a spine-chilling climax in ‘Halloween Ends’.

Four years after the events of ‘Halloween Kills’ (2021), Laurie (Curtis) is living with her granddaughter Allyson and has just about wrapped up writing her memoir.

Michael Myers hasn’t been seen since and Laurie – after allowing the spectre of Mi chael to determine and drive her reality for decades – chooses to finally liberate herself from fear and rage and embrace life.

But when a young man, Corey Cunning ham, is accused of killing a boy he was babysitting, it ignites a cascade of violence and terror that will force Laurie to finally

confront the evil she can’t control, once and for all.

Now before I give my final verdict, there’s plenty this movie gets right and plenty that misses the mark.

I enjoyed the Corey storyline because it was something different to what ‘Hallow een’ fans are traditionally used to. The way the movie kicks off with him as the focus sets up the rest of the movie really well, and you certainly form a bond with the character.

Curtis, as always, nails her role as Laurie and her character’s granddaughter Allyson, played by the beautifully talented Andi Mat ichak, is also quite captivating throughout.

Now while there was plenty to like, the movie well and truly had its flaws.

One glaring fault was the fact the iconic horror villain doesn’t appear until around 45

See these movies at...

minutes in, which is not ideal if this is to be the legendary character’s final ever movie.

There were also some weird and cringe-worthy parts to, like the fact Michael – when he eventually does get some screen time – is found living in a sewer drain. Odd!

But when you take it for what it is, ‘Hal

PENRITH

Ê Get excited everyone! The new season of ‘Love Island Australia’, which officially returns to Spain, will premiere on Monday, October 31 at 6pm. The new season will pre miere first on streamer 9NOW before being broadcast on 9GO! later each evening. Sophie Monk is back as host along with Ireland’s Eo ghan McDermott as narrator. This season has already been filmed with alternate endings. ‘Love Island’ airs Monday-Thursday.

Ê Carrie Bickmore is tipped to join Channel Nine next year after quitting her hosting role on ‘The Project’ last week after 13 years. Ru mours and denials have been floating around of late that Carrie is poised to be picked up by Nine. As for her potential role at Nine, some are suggesting she could replace Ally Langdon on ‘Today’ with the latter moving

to ‘A Current Affair’ to take over from Tracy Grimshaw. Watch this space.

Ê With Ukraine not somewhere you want to be right now, the famous English city of Liverpool will host the ‘Eurovision Song Con test’ in 2023. The home of The Beatles was chosen following a strong city bid process that examined facilities at the venue; the ability to accommodate thousands of visiting delegations, crew, fans and journalists; infrastructure; and the cultural offer of the Host City in reflecting Ukraine’s win in 2022. ‘Eurovision’ will take place in mid-May.

Ê The final season of long-running UK series ‘Doc Martin’ will premiere on the ABC on November 5 at 7.30pm.

Ê ‘Baywatch’ legend Pamela Anderson will embark on a massive restoration of her grandmother’s legacy property in Vancou ver in her new series ‘Pamela’s Garden of Eden’. Pammy said her passion for design and gift for renovating spaces inspired her to

redevelop the six-acre waterfront property on Vancouver Island, which she purchased from her late grandmother over 25 years ago. Pamela will enlist a dream team of contrac tors as well as input from her parents to execute her romantic and glamorous vision. Over the course of the season, they work alongside her through the stresses, struggles, budget, and time constraints of this extraor dinary renovation. It premieres on Thursday, November 3 on FOX Arena.

Ê New National Geographic series ‘Lim itless with Chris Hemsworth’ is coming to Disney+ on Wednesday, November 16. In the six-part documentary series, the ‘Thor’ star explores how to combat ageing and discover the full potential of the human body.

Ê One to look out for next year… a new Wiggles documentary, titled ‘Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles’, is coming to Amazon Prime Video. The feature length doco is set to include behind the scenes personal footage never previously seen.

Nathan Taylor

NEWS

NOVEMBER

PAMELA’S GARDEN OF EDEN, FOX ARENA

AUSTRALIA,

TV Guide: October 21–27

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

Small

(MA15+)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Dead At 17” (M v) (’08) Stars: Barbara Niven 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News

7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens” (M v) (’15) Stars: Harrison Ford 11:15 TBA 1:00 Home Shopping

3:00 STIHL Timber sports (PG) 3:30 Down East Dickering (PG)

Scrap Kings (PG) 5:30

Restoration (PG)

AFL Women’s: Round 9:

v Geelong *Live* 8:30 AFL Women’s: Round 9: Gold

Carlton *Live*

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra 11:30 NINE’s Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Abduction Of Angie” (M v) (’17) Stars: Tamara Braun 1:45 Garden Gurus Moments 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat

6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG)

7:30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Intern” (M l) (’15) Stars: Robert De Niro 10:50 Movie: “Ted” (MA15+) (’12) Stars: Giovanni Ribisi

3:25 The Simpsons (PG) 4:20 Movie: “The Lego Ninjago Movie” (PG) (’17) Stars: Dave Franco 6:25 Movie: “Hotel Transylvania 3” (PG) (’18) Stars: Adam Sandler 8:30 Movie: “27 Dresses” (PG) (’08) Stars: Katherine Heigl

6:05 Ben And Holly’s

6:25 Alva’s World 7:00 Grace’s Amazing Machines 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Center Stage” (PG) (’00) Stars: Maggie Cheung 10:25 Doctor Who (PG)

4:00 Raven’s Quest 4:35 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay (PG) 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Movie: “Martian Child” (PG) (’09) Stars: John Cusack 9:20 Bedtime Stories (PG)

5:30 Heston’s Feasts

6:30 Plat du Tour 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein’s Fruits Of The Sea 8:30 Curtis Stone’s Travel, Cook, Repeat 9:00 Cook Like An Italian With Silvia Colloca 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK

6:00 The Talk 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) 8:00 10 News First 8:30 Studio 10 (PG) 12:00 Dr Phil (M) 2:00 Entertainment Tonight 2:30 Food Trail - South Africa (PG) 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Everyday Gourmet 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Living Room (PG) 8:30 The Graham Norton Show (M) 9:30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M n,s)

12:00 NCIS: Los Angeles (PG) 1:00 The Code (PG) 2:00 Blood & Treasure (M v) 3:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 3:30 The Love Boat (PG) 4:30 Star Trek: The Next Generation (PG) 5:30 MacGyver (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 8:30 The Traitors (M)

5:15 Shortland (PG) 5:45 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross 6:15 Forged In Fire (PG) 7:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Hoarders (M l) 9:25 Atlanta (MA15+)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Peer To Peer (PG) 10:00 Great Irish Interiors (PG) 11:00 Australia With Julia Bradbury (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Rise Of Empires (M v) 3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Secrets Of The Lost Liners (PG) 8:30 Good With Wood (PG) 9:25 World’s Greatest Hotels (PG)

12:30 Frasier (PG) 1:30 Seinfeld (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00

The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Mom (M d,s) 11:00

Frasier (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping 1:30 The Late Show

5:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:45 Movie: “Mr. Peabody & Sherman” (PG) (’14) Stars: Ty Burrell 7:30 Movie: “Hercules” (M l,v) (’14) Stars: Dwayne Johnson 9:30 Movie: “Conan The Barbarian” (MA15+) (’11) Stars: Jason Momoa

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Flip Or Flop Vegas 4:30 Hidden Potential 5:00 Beach Hunters 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Saving The Manor 8:30 Lakefront Bargain Hunt 9:30 Building Off The Grid

3:30 Movie: “The Maggie” (G) (’54) Stars: Alex Mackenzie 5:30 Murder, She Wrote (PG) 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Antiques Downunder (PG) 8:00 Antiques Detectives (PG) 8:40 Movie: “Thelma & Louise” (M) (’91) Stars: Geena Davis

(PG)

(PG)

Death In Paradise (M) 8:30 TBA 9:30 Significant Others (M d,l) 10:25 Summer Love (MA15+) 11:00 Silent Witness (M n,v)

2:30 Escape To The Country 4:30 Bargain Hunt 5:30 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 6:00 TBA 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG)

Escape To The Country 10:30 I Escaped To The Country 11:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG)

6:00 Home Shopping 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Bondi *Live* 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Men In Black 3” (PG) (’12) Stars: Will Smith 9:40 Movie: “Men In Black: International” (PG) (’19) Stars: Chris Hemsworth 12:00 Sydney Harbour Bridge 90th Birthday

3:00 AFL Women’s: Round 9: Sydney v Fremantle *Live* 5:00 Surveillance Oz (PG) 5:15 Pawn Stars (PG) 5:40 TBA 6:45 Movie: “The Time Machine” (G) (’60) Stars: Rod Taylor 8:50 Movie: “Hitman: Agent 47” (MA15+) (’15)

12:00 Destination WA 12:30 Rivals (PG) 1:00 Drive TV 1:30 Cross Court 2:00 My Way (PG) 2:30 The Block: Working From Home Space Week (PG) 3:30 The Bizarre Pet Vets (PG) 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 Cricket: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup: Australia v New Zealand *Live* From The SCG 9:30 Cricket: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup: England v Afghanistan *Live* From Perth Stadium

5:00 Movie: “The Polar Express” (G) (’04) Stars: Tom Hanks 7:00 Movie: “Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs” (G) (’09) Stars: Bill Hader 8:45 Movie: “Big” (M l,s) (’88) Stars: Elizabeth Perkins 11:00 Movie: “Wilson” (MA15+) (’17)

6:05 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 6:30 The Highway Rat 7:00 Odd Squad 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Judith Lucy Vs Men (MA15+) 9:45 Sammy J (PG) 9:50 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (M) 10:15 Mock The Week (PG)

5:30 Power To The People (PG) 6:00 Pacific Island Food Revolution 6:50 NITV News Update 7:00 True North Calling (PG) 7:30 The Land We’re On With Penelope Towney 8:30 Movie: “Spiders” (M) (’13) Stars: William Hope

4:30 Weekend Breaks With Gregg Wallace 5:30 Spaghetti And Noodles 6:30 Ainsley’s Good Mood Food 7:30 Bobby & Giada In Italy 8:30 Jamie’s Great Britain 9:30 Eat Me: Or Try Not To 10:30 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

12:00 The Living Room (PG) 1:00 Everyday Gourmet 1:30 Healthy Homes Australia 2:00 Freshly Picked 2:30 Good Chef Bad Chef (PG) 3:00 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 3:30 Luxury Escapes 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Taste Of Australia 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:30 The Dog House (PG) 7:30 Blue Bloods (M) 8:30 CSI: Vegas (M v) 9:30 NCIS (M) 10:30 TBA 11:30 TBA

12:30 Home Shopping 4:30 Authentic (PG)

5:00 Religious Programs

2:00 Football: A-Leagues All Access 2:30 Roads Less Travelled 3:00 MacGyver (M) 5:00 Reel Action 5:30 I Fish 6:00 Scorpion (PG) 7:00 Football: Round 3: Melbourne Victory v Melbourne City *Live* 10:00 MacGyver (M)

4:35 PBS Newshour 5:35 Insight (M) 6:35 India With Guy Martin (PG) 7:30 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 The Good Fight (M) 9:35 The Handmaid’s Tale (MA15+) 10:35 True Believers: Empire Of Yoga (MA15+)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Ageless Gardens 10:00 The World From Above (PG) 11:00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 John Williams In Vienna 4:25 Movie: “When I Stutter” (M) (’17) Stars: Gail Wilson Lew 5:40 Secret Nazi Bases (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Greatest Train Journeys From Above (PG) 8:25 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces (PG) 9:25 Search For Cleopatra (PG) 10:15 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (PG)

12:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 1:00 TBA 2:30 TBA 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:15 Friends (PG) 12:15 Home Shopping 1:45 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:45 The Neighborhood (PG) 3:35 Two & A Half Men (M)

6:05 Movie: “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home” (PG) (’86) Stars: Leonard Nimoy 8:35 Movie: “Star Trek V: The Final Frontier” (PG) (’89) Stars: William Shatner 10:45 Movie: “Star Trek 6: The Undiscovered Country” (M v) (’91)

3:30 Beach Hunters 4:30 Saving The Manor 5:30 Australia’s Best House 6:30 Building Off The Grid (PG) 7:30 Escape To The Chateau 8:30 House Hunters USA 9:30 House Hunters International 10:30 House Hunters Renovation

3:00 Movie: “Taras Bulba” (PG) (’62) Stars: Yul Brynner 5:30 Cricket: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup: Australia v New Zealand *Live* From The Sydney Cricket Ground 7:00 Movie: “The First Wives Club” (PG) (’96) Stars: Diane Keaton

6:00 Mary

6:30

7:00 Guillaume’s

7:30

8:00 Dishing

Theroux: The Night In Question (M d,l) 9:30 Tom Gleeson’s Secrets Of The

10:30 INXS: Live

Up 8:30 Rick

9:35 Rick

10:40

(M)

4:55 Forged In Fire (PG) 5:45 World’s Greatest Hotels (PG)

6:40 The Buildings That Fought Hitler (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering (M) 8:30 UnXplained With William Shatner (M) 9:20 Cracking The Code (M)

2:40 Movie: “Star Trek: Insurrection” (PG) (’98)

Stars: Jonathan Frakes

4:45 Movie: “Star Trek: Nemesis” (PG) (’02) Stars: Brent Spiner 7:00 Movie: “Batman Forever” (PG) (’95)

Stars: Val Kilmer 9:30 Movie: “Batman & Robin” (PG) (’97)

2:55 Movie: “The Dam Busters” (G) (’55) Stars: Richard Todd 5:30 The Bizarre Pet Vets (PG) 6:30 Cricket: T20 World Cup: India v Pakistan *Live* 9:30 Movie: “Double Jeopardy” (M l,s,v) (’99) Stars: Ashley Judd 11:40 See No Evil (M)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Rosehaven (PG) 1:25 Vera (M v) 3:00 Gardening Australia 4:00 Think Tank (PG) 5:00 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Australian Story (PG) 8:30 Four Corners (PG) 9:20 Media Watch (PG) 9:35 Planet America 10:05 Parkinson In Australia (PG)

5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 8:30 A Touch Of Frost (PG) 10:40 Air Crash Investigations (PG)

12:00 Movie: “Dying To Be Loved” (M v) (’16) Stars: Lindsay Hartley 2:00 The Real Manhunter (M d,v) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 9:15 9-1-1 (M) 10:15 S.W.A.T. (M v) 11:15 The Latest Seven News

7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 American Pickers (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Terminator: Dark Fate” (MA15+) (’19) Stars: Linda Hamilton

6:00 Modern Family (PG) 6:30 The Simpsons (PG) 7:30 Family Guy (M s) 8:00 American Dad (M) 8:30 The Cleveland Show (M s)

7:00 Odd Squad

Doctor Who (PG)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra 11:30 NINE’s Morning News 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:30 Getaway (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:50 Under Investigation (M) 9:50 Suburban Gangsters (M)

6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Wiyi Yani U Thangani (PG) 7:40 Cottagers And Indians (PG) 8:30 Karla Grant Presents (PG) 9:00 It’s Fine, I’m Fine

The Cook Up 7:30 Rick Stein’s

12:00 Dr Phil (M) 1:00 The Traitors (PG) 2:30 Entertainment Tonight 3:00 (PG) 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Everyday Gourmet 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Traitors (M) 8:40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M) 9:40 Ghosts (M) 10:10 Nath Valvo: I’m Happy For You (M)

3:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 3:30 The Love Boat (PG) 4:30 Star Trek: The Next Generation (PG) 5:30 MacGyver (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Elementary

Railway Journeys (PG) 5:00 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (M) 8:30 Scotland’s Extreme Medics (M l)

4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Seinfeld (PG) 11:00 Frasier (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

5:00 Good Bones (PG) 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 8:30 No Demo Reno 9:30 Why The Heck Did I Buy This House?

7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG) 8:30 Aussie Salvage Squad (PG) 9:30 Outback Truckers (PG) 10:30 Hustle & Tow (M)

7:00 ABC National

(M)

(PG)

(PG)

Long

(PG) 9:50 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 10:35 Inside The

House

Odyssey 8:00 Girls Guide To Hunting Fishing Wild Cooking 8:30 Jamie & Jimmy’s Food Fight Club

7:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M) 8:30 Indian Space Dreams (M) (In English/ Hindi)

(PG)

6:30 That 70’s Show (PG)

(M

Christian

Young

(PG)

(’05)

Murder, She Wrote (PG)

Antiques Roadshow

Death In Paradise (PG) 8:40 Whitstable Pearl (M

6:30 The Simpsons (PG) 7:30 Family Guy (M s) 8:00 American Dad (PG) 8:30 Ramsay’s 24 Hours To Hell And Back (M l) 9:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen (M l)

7:00 Odd Squad 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 TBA 9:00 Blunt Talk (M l,s) 9:30 Friday Night Dinner (M s)

6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 The Point 8:00 Wellington Paranormal (PG) 8:30 The Casketeers (PG) 9:00 Kura (M)

7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein’s Seafood Odyssey 8:00 All Up In My Grill 8:30 BBQ Brawl 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK

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

7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M) 8:30 Alone (M) 9:40 Ellie Simmonds: A World Without Dwarfism (PG)

4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:30 Mom (M d,s) 11:10 Frasier (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

7:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Uncle Buck” (PG) (’89) Stars: John Candy 9:30 Movie: “Planes, Trains And Automobiles” (M l) (’87)

8:30 Me And My Tourette’s

6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Escape to The Chateau 8:30 Our Yorkshire Farm 9:30 Restored

6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (PG) 8:30 The Closer (M) 9:30 Cricket: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup: Pre Show 10:00 Rizzoli & Isles (M)

12:00 Flower Shop Mystery (M v) 2:00 The Real Manhunter (M v) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia (M) 8:40 Extreme Weddings Australia (PG) 9:40 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 10:40 The Latest Seven News

Pawn

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 Travel Guides (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:35 Movie: “The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee” (M l) (’20) Stars: Paul Hogan 10:25 NINE News Late 10:55 Family Law (M s)

12:00 Dr Phil (M) 1:00 The Real Love Boat Australia (PG) 2:30 Entertainment Tonight 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Everyday Gourmet 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 8:30 The Real Love Boat Australia (PG) 10:00 My Life Is Murder (M)

3:30 Nippers 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Lost For Words (M) 8:30 Secret Scotland (MA15+) 9:25 Nine Perfect Strangers (MA15+) 10:15 SBS World News Late 10:45 No Man’s Land (M)

(M)

(M

6:30 The Simpsons (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Rush Hour 2” (M s,v) (’01) Stars: Jackie Chan 9:30 Movie: “Sweet November” (M s) (’00) Stars: Keanu Reeves

7:00 Undiscovered Vistas 7:50 Peckham’s Finest (M) 8:30 High Arctic Haulers (PG) 9:20 Celtics/ Lakers: Best Of Enemies (PG)

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

4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M s) 9:20 Two & A Half Men (PG) 10:10 The Big Bang Theory (M s)

6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Boise Boys 8:30 Home Town 9:30 House Hunters Renovation

Word Search

WORDS

Trivia Quiz

Are you a Western Sydney-based attraction, tourism activity or restaurant and want to be part of the Western Sydney Pass?

Email info@westernsydneypass.com.au to find out more.

TEST YOUR BRAIN

Str8ts

How to beat Str8ts -

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But...

rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, e.g. [4,2,3,5].

Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

You can find more help and strategies at www.str8ts.com along with more puzzles, Apple apps and books.

Wheel Words

Courtney’s new music Aussie country newcomer Courtney Keil (pictured) has released her new single, ‘Always First’.

It follows her previous release ‘Hard Place’, which debuted at #21 on the Country Hot 50 airplay charts.

‘Always First’ is the type of dynamic tune fans have come to love from Courtney.

Her sincerity and willingness to share her whole self in her songs is a major drawcard for listeners.

“I am someone who lives my life by always putting my heart first, sometimes for the better, some times for the worse,” she said.

Since her debut in 2020, Court ney has become known for her bubbly bops that ride the line somewhere between old school and contemporary country.

‘Always First’ is out now on all the usual streaming services.

Celebrating our Keith Keith Urban is turning 55 next week and CMT is celebrating by airing a ‘Happy Keith Urba nathon’ on Wednesday, October 26 from 8pm.

If you’re a Keith Urban fan, you won’t want to miss the back-toback hits that CMT will air.

CMT is available in Australia through Foxtel.

Str8ts & Wheel Words brought to you by Western Sydney Pass | info@westernsydneypass.com.au

BROUGHT

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

With the Solar Eclipse, Venus and Mercury stimulating your career zone, start thinking about strategic ways to maximise your professional potential. As singer Katy Perry (born on October 25, 1984) says, “Find out what your gift is and nurture it.” It’s also a good week to get feedback from your boss es, clients or customers. But you may have to bite the bullet and criticise a colleague, sack an employee, ditch a struggling project or look for a better job.

GEMINI

Expect some highs and lows this week! The Solar Eclipse and Venus promise improved relations with a friend, client or colleague. But the Mercury/Pluto square highlights hic cups in your financial management in the form of a large bill, an unexpected expense or a retrospective tax debt. Which reinforces the importance of having a smart savings plan and a well-stocked emergency fund. Strive to be cautious and thrifty, rather than impulsive and extravagant.

BY BOHO ASTRO - JOANNE MADELINE MOORE

PISCES

Are your aspirations for the future ambitious enough? Bountiful, expan sive Jupiter transits back into your sign (until December 20), which favours ruminating over big-picture ideas. And there’s no room for false modes ty or passive Piscean procrastination as you enjoy talking, texting, posting, promoting, socialising and circulat ing. The Solar Eclipse stimulates cre ative thinking and encourages you to come up with a cracking plan, and then pursue it.

CANCER

This week (courtesy of the So lar Eclipse and the Pluto/Mercury square) focus on platonic and ro mantic relationships. Avoid making assumptions! Communicate your expectations and then double-check what others expect from you in return.

Attached Crabs – working through a partnership problem requires persis tence and commitment. Singles – give superficial suitors the flick. Look for love with someone who is mature, de pendable and ready to commit.

ARIES

Tuesday’s intense Solar Eclipse high lights close relationships, shared fi nances and/or trust issues. And watch your enthusiasm for a project doesn’t overtake your ability to knuckle down and get the job done. If you promise more than you can deliver, then other people will just end up disappointed. So slow down, look within, and listen to the wisdom of your inner voice. It offers an alternative perspective that can point you in the direction that’s right for you.

LEO

Leos love to be the Top Cat but this week you need to ask yourself “Am I leading others or just bossing them around?” If you power ahead without considering other people, then you’ll create unnecessary drama. Do your best to accommodate the needs of those around you. Life will also run more smoothly if you can incorpo rate a spiritual ritual into your daily routine. Something like yoga, tai chi, chanting, meditation or creative vis ualisation would be beneficial.

SAGITTARIUS

Tuesday’s Solar Eclipse signals a fresh start involving finances and/or self-esteem. Learn to manage mon ey better – and learn to love yourself. Jupiter jumps back into your work zone until December 20. So a lucky opportunity could be heading your way but you must reach out and grab it or it will pass you by. Confidence is the key. Be inspired by birthday great, singer Katy Perry, “If you’re present ing yourself with confidence, you can pull off pretty much anything.”

This week the Solar Eclipse, Venus and Mercury are transiting through your sign, but the Mercury/Pluto square could rattle your Scorpio resil ience. So it’s time to bounce back, as you demonstrate (and celebrate) your strengths – including passion, deter mination and discretion. Your motto is from fellow Scorpion, singer-song writer Joni Mitchell (who turns 79 next week), “There are things to confess that enrich the world, and things that need not be said.”

Sagittarians can be feisty and unpre dictable souls. But don’t allow yourself to be drawn into a heated exchange (especially involving finances and/or friends). It would be better to watch the fireworks from the sidelines. With the Solar Eclipse, Venus and Mercury in your privacy zone, slow down and chill out as you relax, rejuvenate and contemplate. After some quiet reflec tion and quality ‘me-time’, you’ll start to see things from a refreshingly differ ent perspective.

Bulls prefer to plod along in a me thodical fashion but this week, you could be dogged by unexpected dra mas! Pluto squares Mercury, so daily life could be intense and rather dis ruptive. If you prioritise and are men tally flexible, then you’ll handle the hurly-burly with less stress and strain. Courtesy of the Solar Eclipse, roman tic relationships and platonic part nerships are also in a state of flux. The more adaptable you are, the better the final outcomes will be.

VIRGO

When it comes to the way you think, blast out of a boring rut and jump into an exciting new phase. Use your im agination and think outside the box. The Solar Eclipse, Venus and Mercury (your ruler) are all visiting your com munication zone. So stop avoiding issues and start discussing what you really want and need. You can’t expect others to magically read your mind! For some clever Virgos, a joint venture or creative project has the potential to fly.

It’s time for an unexpected pivot! Examine all possibilities this week, especially ones that come from left field. With the Solar Eclipse, Venus and Mercury moving through your hopes and wishes zone, it’s important to have ambitious long-term goals that you’re working towards. You’ll have to be patient though, as you fo cus on bringing your dreams down to earth via a practical plan. Then – when everything is in place – you’ll know the perfect time to pounce.

DR ERIN

Ear issue pet owners should watch for

An aural (ear) haematoma is a collec tion of blood or serum, and some times a blood clot within the pinna or ear flap. It forms when one or more of these vessels rupture and the leaking blood pockets in the space between the two layers of skin. This blood collects under the skin and causes the ear flap to become thick ened. The swelling may involve the entire ear flap or it may involve only a small area.

Aural haematomas usually occur as a result of local irritation to some part of the ear.

When something irritates the ear canal, a dog is likely to respond by scratching or shak ing the head. This ‘self-abuse’ can very easily damage the fragile blood vessels within the pinna and cause an aural haematoma to form. The ear flap is composed of a layer of skin on each side of a layer of cartilage. The cartilage gives the ear flap its shape. Blood vessels go from side to side by passing through the cartilage. Violent shaking causes the vessels to break as the skin slides across the cartilage.

Various differing approaches may be tried in the treatment of aural haematomas. If there is only a mild swelling and there are other complicating factors (like old age or other ongoing disease problems) then your vet may suggest a course of medication and leaving the haematoma to be partially resorbed with time. Most cases, however, go on to require surgery. This involves giving your pet a full general anaesthetic, draining

the fluid from the pinna and then suturing the two flaps of skin together.

This approach allows your vet to remove all of the fluid and suturing the two layers together forms a strong fibrous bond between the two and helps to prevent a recurrence.

With any of the possible treatment options, your vet may also have to address any underlying causative factors like ear mites, infection and foreign objects.

Dealing with these problems makes treating the haematoma much more likely to be a successful, permanent solution to this uncomfortable condition. It is essential that the cause of the problem be identified and treated if possible. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to identify a cause, or it is difficult to manage the underlying cause. In these cases, another aural haematoma may form in the same ear or in the other ear and management may require long-term medications.

If a haematoma is left untreated the blood in the ear flap will separate into serum and a clot and will gradually be absorbed over a period of two to six weeks. This is an uncom fortable time for your dog and unfortunately some scarring will take place during this process. It also causes a deformity of the ear flap resulting in a “cauliflower ear” which may cause further problems.

For more information, contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

Pet of the Week

SWIM SAFETY

WITH JULIE SHELDRAKE • NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE & EVA BORY’S SWIM SCHOOL • 4730 8900

Being in the water can be the answer for your health and exercise needs

Staying safe can be viewed from many angles, and an important way to ensure personal safety is by looking after our health.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ National Health Survey released earlier this year revealed that 67 per cent of Australian adults were overweight or obese (12.5 million people), an increase from 63.4 per cent since 2014-15.

If the current trend continues, more than 18 million Australians will be overweight or obese by 2030, increasing the population’s risk of chronic conditions such as cardio vascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.

A 2019 study reported on by the Week ender showed that 32.8 per cent of adults in the Penrith region were classified as obese – a significantly higher number than surrounding cities, with Blacktown currently sitting at 30.6 per cent, the Blue Mountains at 26.2 per cent and Parramatta at 25.5 per cent.

Regular exercise is one way to combat the growing problem of obesity, but running, going to the gym or group sport isn’t for everyone, particularly if you have mobility issues of any type. Aquarobics isn’t just for the oldies as it has sometimes been

increasing your range of motion, regardless of your age, gender or fitness level! Water is 15 times more resistant than air, so many people also use water resistance training when injured to maintain their cardiovas cular fitness with less impact and stress on joints, bones, and muscles due to the buoyancy of water.

The support provided by the water also makes it an ideal environment for post workout recovery and stretching, and research shows that in water exercise provides relief for sufferers of arthritis, back pain, heart disease, obesity, fibromyalgia, or multiple sclerosis.

Grab a friend and come and join us to

HEALTH WITH ERIN BURNS

ONE POINT HEALTH • 4732 5188

How you can stay healthy and do your bit for a good cause this November

OnePointHealth is proud to partner with The Big Three Trek and Pink Up Penrith to bring you two exciting events and raise funds for The McGrath Foundation.

On November 4, OnePoint Health will be matching The Big Three Trek’s 150km walk with our own ‘Breast Walk Ever’.

From 7am, we welcome the Penrith community to walk alongside us, walking as little or as many kilometres

as possible, to reach 150km together.

Come down to our clinic on High Street and join us during the day. A ‘Breast Walk Ever’ will be sponsored by local spa ‘Reset’ by Astina, who will be onsite with a recovery lounge. There will also be a raffle throughout the day for your chance to win some great prizes. To book in a walk for our Breast Walk Ever you can find the link on our Facebook Page.

Upon conclusion we will

be hosting ‘A Touch of Pink’, a wonderful evening with guest speakers including Murray Connalin, a Penrith local and member of the Big Three Trek, whose wife lost her battle to Breast Cancer in 2021; Emma McKeown, Breast Cancer Survivor and owner of AirLocker Training Penrith, and McGrath Breast Care Nurses Melanie and Sarah. During the evening we will have our major raffle with items including a signed Panthers 2022 jersey, Pat Cummins signed jersey, Jayden Ojeda race car memorabilia, and so many more amazing local business prizes, with tickets availa ble to be purchased early evening.

Tickets to the event will be $50, with all donations going directly to The Big Three Trek and Pink Up Penrith.

To book in for your walking time or to purchase a ticket for A Touch of Pink, please visit our Facebook page or contact OnePointHealth on 4732 5188 or alicia@onep ointhealth.com.au.

Way back in the ‘good old days’, the year 1980 to be exact, was when I and a few of my good mates took our first big overseas adventure to what was then being marketed as a surfer’s utopia, where you could surf ultimate waves all day and party hard all night. I wasn’t the gung-ho surfer type like some of my buds, but I didn’t mind a paddle and certainly enjoyed a party! It was an exciting time and I had heard so many Bali stories from other mates that had already discovered this nirvana that I was more than ready to explore the “island of the gods”. Now you may find it hard to picture now if you are a Bali frequenter, but what we experienced then was something for us at 17-years-old like we had never dreamt of. Kuta Beach, with rice paddies surrounding a small basic village with gravel roads, open drainage, minimal Warung’s and tourist opportunities with the accommodation on offer being that of homestays, cheap losmans and the rare “resort” like the one we stayed in. The very basic “Ocean Blue Club” was one block from the beach and we stayed in uncomplicated tiled floored rooms with a few rock-hard beds with traditional thatched roofs keeping us dry. A swimming pool with some plastic chairs around it and an endless supply of toasted jaffles and the still ever popular Bintang beer keeping our spirits high. We were in heaven!

I could continue this story for many pages, but the names of the guilty would need to be changed, and the shenanigans we got up to may offend the eyes and ears of some readers, so I will keep those memories internal and move forward 35 or so years!

TRAVEL

KUTA

I fell in love with Bali then and there and have since returned 15 times at a minimum. However, my love for Kuta did wane as it became more popular with a certain type of tourist and for me it lost a lot of its charm. In fact, I probably stayed there only once or twice in the years that followed since that maiden expedition.

That all changed for me just last month when I was tempted back to where it all began for me all those years ago. The GM and now good

mate from one of my favourite Sydney hotels, The Ovolo Woolloomooloo, knew of my love for Bali and was dead set on me checking out their new kid on the Kuta block, a luxury boutique offering by the name of “Mamaka by Ovolo”. As I was heading over for a little break anyway I decided a few days’ work beforehand wouldn’t be an issue and I was certainly keen to see if Kuta still had the elements that had me steering clear for all those years.

What a great call it was, thanks Kieron.

Mamaka has without doubt thrown out the challenge to the other operators beachfront by giving Kuta accommodation seekers a classy, but very cool luxury boutique option that has given (in my eyes) the lift in style that was lacking in this area.

Located directly opposite the beach on Jalan Pantai, Mamaka is certainly sending out the good vibrations. Kuta has also risen to the occasion on many levels in this post pandemic period that is now seeing many travellers returning to Bali. The beaches are cleaner. The streets a little less manic. The hawkers even seem a little less insistent and extremely grateful to see us again.

One thing that certainly hasn’t changed is the mesmerising sunset on Kuta Beach and sitting on the rooftop location of Mamaka’s, Kuta Social Club with a cocktail in hand and a

little tapas from Executive Chef Ben Harring ton made it even more alluring! Seriously, this pom from Essex is now in his element procur ing Mediterranean delights with a Balinese twist, and damn it’s good! The whole top floor of the hotel is screaming, “hey, just relax OK”! Rooftop pool and Cabanas with views right over all of the western beaches of Bali, you can even get caught plane spotting as the airport is only 15 minutes away. That also means you can start that holiday even quicker when you arrive. Another favourite for me was people watching from both levels of Street 32, the hotel’s main dining area.

The room choices are many and varied to suit all budgets and tastes, but the one thing that is consistent with them all is their cool creative and somewhat eclectic vibe that really is just a flow on from the whole vibe of the hotel.

I guess the bottom line for me is, my old friend Kuta is returned as an option for me and I certainly suggest you take a look at my new friend Mamaka. In fact, head to my website and take advantage of a killer deal that not only saves you dollars, but is packed with a bevy of bonus perks!

Visit www.thetravellingguy.com.

“MAMAKA HAS WITHOUT DOUBT THROWN OUT THE CHALLENGE TO THE OTHER OPERATORS BEACHFRONT”

Words: Scott McRae | Photos: Scott McRae | More Info: www.thetravellingguy.com

NOTICES

School Canteen Licence

Kusa, Principal 4774 1205 or Lloyd.kusa2@det.nsw.edu.au

be

Tenders

and noted in the subject line

in Con dence – School Canteen Tender” and sent to: The Principal Lloyd.kusa2@det.nsw.edu.au Tenders close at 3pm on Wednesday, 9th November, 2022

y Criteria: All

must hold a current working with children check.

Truly connected Corolla

NATHAN TAYLOR

The all-new Toyota Corolla Cross small SUV has arrived in Australian showrooms with advanced safety and connected technologies, excellent packaging and practicality, and the choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains and two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Sitting alongside the C-HR between the smaller Yaris Cross and family favourite RAV4, the all-new Corolla Cross is set to raise the benchmark in small SUVs with class-leading technology designed to connect drivers with their cars more than ever before.

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations, Sean Hanley, said that its combination of advanced connected technology, flexible stylish pack aging and hybrid performance would help set it apart in the small SUV segment.

“Toyota Australia is always looking to bring class-leading products to market, and we are thrilled to expand our comprehensive SUV line-up with the addition of the Corolla Cross,” he said.

“The Corolla Cross offers the richest suite of active safety and Connected Services tech nologies of any Toyota model to date, with a range of powertrains and trim levels certain to provide plenty of appeal.”

Built on the same TNGA-C platform as its

highlight the release of the new Corolla Cross

The GX is distinguished on the outside by 17-inch alloy wheels, LED head and tail-lights, automatic high beam, daytime running lights, heated and auto retractable door mirrors and a shark fin antenna.

Inside, GX grades come standard with automatic climate control, a 7.0-inch digital multi information display (MID), electric park brake, smart entry and start, fabric seats, 60:40 split-folding rear seats and a luggage cover.

The Corolla Cross is the first Toyota in Australia to feature the new-generation Toyota multimedia system.

The system can be controlled via a large 8.0-inch touchscreen display or steering wheel controls, and offers wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, DAB+ digital radio and superb sound reproduction from a six-speaker audio system.

Corolla hatch and sedan siblings, the all-new Corolla Cross offers significantly higher ride height, interior flexibility and class-leading boot space up to 436 litres (GX & GXL petrol) with the rear seat backs in place.

Its stylish exterior design is reflected inside where high-quality materials and finish give the car a premium ambience.

The Corolla Cross range opens from $33,000 plus on-road costs for the petrol-powered GX variant, with three trim levels on offer consisting of GX, GXL and the flagship Atmos.

Customers can also choose the GX with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain for just $2,500 extra, with the GX 2WD hybrid priced at $35,500.

Building on the infotainment system, the Corolla Cross features the most comprehen sive Toyota Connected Services functionality of any Toyota model to date, using a data communication module (DCM) inside the vehicle and the myToyota Connect smart phone app to provide real-time remote infor mation and convenience for owners.

The mid-range GXL is priced from $36,750 for the petrol, $39,250 for the 2WD hybrid and $42,2501 for the AWD hybrid, that features an additional electric motor to drive the rear axle for added traction.

Visit your local Toyota showroom.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross range.

SPORT

NEPEAN TRIATHLON RETURNS

40th running of famous event. See back page.

Zoe sprints to Adelaide for Champs

outh Penrith teenager Zoe Blaikie-West is hoping her upcoming trip to Adelaide will inspire others her age to chase their sporting

The 15-year-old profoundly deaf athlete will repre sent New South Wales for the first time this Decem ber when she travels to the South Austral ian capital for the Austral ian All Schools Athletics Champi onships. Zoe, who will contest the 800m sprint, said it was a thrill to be selected for the prestigious competition.

“When I think about representing my state for the first time, I get a whole lot of feelings. I keep thinking ‘oh my gosh this is actually happen Weekender

“It’s a big opportunity and I never really expected to get this “I thought I’d make it as far as State but that’s it.”

Zoe began her athletics career when she was in Year 5, but the talented Year 10 Nepean CAPA High School student said things didn’t really start to take off until a few years later.

“When I was in Year 7, I found my passion for running and kept going,” Zoe said.

“I love running and I was always an energetic kid when I was younger. I just wanted to see how far I could push myself and representing NSW is going to be a big thing for me.”

However, in order for Zoe to fulfil her dreams of representing her state at the Australian All Schools Athletics Champi onships later this year, she needs to raise some money to get herself there.

A GoFundMe page is currently set up online to assist Zoe in meeting her travel expenses.

“I decided to hold a fundraiser because it’s very expensive for me to travel to Adelaide. I have to pay for airfares, accommodation, uniforms and Levy fees,” Zoe revealed.

“I think people should get behind me because I want to be able to inspire young people like me to also achieve their dreams.

“I would really appreciate any help that anyone can donate to help me get to Adelaide, so I can represent my state.”

In the hopes of winning a medal, Zoe is currently ramping up her training schedule ahead of the December 9 to December 11 event at SA Athletics Stadium in Adelaide.

“I’m confident I’ll do pretty well over there,” Zoe said.

“My friends are very encouraging, and I get a lot of support from the teachers at school as well.”

To help Zoe on her journey to Adelaide, you can contribute to her GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/aa0b3424.

Zoe Blaikie-West is representing her state in Adelaide.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Around The Grounds

AFLW: The GWS Giants have bounced back from last week’s defeat to take down Hawthorn by one-point in the latest round of the AFLW competition. A crucial behind from Nicola Barr with just four seconds left secured GWS the 34-33 victory at Henson Park. The Giants will aim for back-to-back wins when they travel to Victoria on Sunday afternoon to face the Richmond Tigers at Mildura Sporting Precinct.

CRICKET: Penrith are in a strong position heading into day two of their Round 3 clash against Sydney University in the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two Day match at University Oval, Penrith hit the batting crease first. The visitors put up a strong innings with the bat, declaring on 9/319. When Sydney University hit the field later that day, they were 0/13 before stumps. The two teams will resume play this Saturday morning at 10am.

CRICKET: Penrith have defeated Bankstown in Round 2 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a T20 match at Bankstown Oval, the home side won the toss and sent Penrith into bat first. Penrith posted 4/123 after 20 overs following a strong batting performance by captain Sam Arnold on 39. When Bankstown hit the crease, they were dismissed for just 91 runs. Penrith’s Elise Robertson was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets. Penrith will look for back-to-back wins when they take on St George Sutherland in a T20 match this Sunday afternoon.

CRICKET: Round 2 of the Nepean District Cricket Association (NDCA) competition is in the books, with Panthers Cricket Club enjoying victory. In first grade, Panthers defeated Gen X after dismissing

their opponents for just 67. In seventh grade, Panthers and Cranebrook Cricket Club shared the points due to the ground conditions preventing any play.

BASEBALL: Greater Western have lost both games to the Cronulla Sharks in Round 2 of the NSW State Baseball League first grade competition. Last Wednesday, the Warriors were thumped 11-1, while Sunday’s fixture was much closer, with the Sharks prevailing 4-3. Greater Western will take on Baulkham Hills in Round 3.

GRIDIRON: The Nepean Ducks have gone down to the UNSW Raiders 32-6 in Round 5 of the Gridiron NSW Men’s competition. Meanwhile, Nepean’s Colts side also tasted defeat at the hands of the Sutherland Seahawks 46-0.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have continued their red-hot start to the 2022/23 A-League season, stunning Melbourne Victory 1-0 last Saturday night at AAMI Park. It is the first time Western Sydney have won their opening two games since 2019-20, and their first back-to-back wins since May 2021. Western Sydney’s Tomislav Mrcela scored the game’s one and only goal just before halftime. Victory fought hard to equalise, but it wasn’t to be, with the Wanderers hanging on to move into second place on the A-League ladder after two rounds. Western Sydney return to CommBank Stadium this Saturday evening to battle the Brisbane Roar, who are still searching for their first win.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan@westernweekender. com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook or Twitter.

Litchfield credits Penrith for success

NATHAN TAYLOR

Young cricketing sensation Phoebe Litchfield is one of the brightest talents in the Sydney Thunder WBBL squad, and she owes a lot of her potential to the Penrith Cricket Club.

When she’s not doing extraordinary things with the bat for the Thunder and NSW Break ers, the 19-year-old is a star at Penrith and has been instrumental in the club’s success in the women’s space since arriving as a teenager from regional NSW.

“I played my first game with Penrith when I was 15. I remember them paying for my accommodation when I went to Sydney and they were so welcoming,” Litchfield said.

“Penrith is such an awesome club and play ing first grade cricket in Sydney was always a milestone I wanted to achieve, and they made it happen.

“I think the link between Western and Penrith is really strong, and they welcomed me with open arms. I’ve loved my time there.”

While her current WBBL commitments are preventing her from playing with the Cats right now, she is looking forward to re-joining them in the summer.

“I’m still with Penrith but won’t play many games at the start of the season because of the Big Bash, but hopefully over the summer break, I’ll get a few games in,” Litchfield said.

Litchfield has been a member of the Sydney

Thunder for three years. She burst onto the scene in October 2019 with a 22-ball 26-run performance against the Sydney Sixers on WBBL debut at the age of 16.

The Orange product said she loves being part of Thunder Nation because of everything the club has done for her.

“The Thunder gave me a chance when I was 16 and, for that, I am forever grateful,” Litch field told the Weekender

“After the amount of time and effort this club has put into me, I absolutely love it here and I’m keen to keep on going.”

Earlier this month, Litchfield made a huge name for herself once again when she scored her maiden Women’s National Cricket League century, notching up a classy 107 against Western Australia at North Sydney Oval.

The teenage prodigy combined with NSW teammate Tahlia Wilson for a 195-run part nership, the third largest in Breakers history.

Litchfield smacked 15 boundaries and a massive six over long-off during her break through knock.

“It had been a goal of mine this season to score my maiden century,” Litchfield said.

“Over the first three rounds of the compe tition, I felt good but I was making stupid mistakes. When I was having dinner with my family the night before, I said ‘I’m scoring runs tomorrow’.

“I went in with that mindset, tried really hard to concentrate and was lucky enough to get the triple figures.”

Young Thunder powerhouse batter Phoebe Litchfield.

Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre to host national event in major coup Boccia titles in Penrith

The Boccia Australia

National Titles are coming to Cambridge Park later this month, with athletes from all over Australia set to converge on the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre.

Making its debut as a Paralympic sport in 1984, Boccia is played indoors and tests each competitor’s degree of muscle control and accu racy.

Competing in wheelchairs, athletes with severe impairments throw, kick or use a ramp device to propel leather balls on a hard flat surface as close as possible to a white ball which serves as the jack.

Boccia is played competitively on the national and international to host the five-day event from Monday, October 31 was enormous.

“It’s absolutely fantastic for us at Penrith Boccia Club… it’s going to be massive,” she told the Weekender

“I’d say around 60-100 people will be attending. We’ve got players

Thomas said Penrith was chosen to hold the Boccia Australia National Titles after successfully hosting the State Titles earlier this year. Recent multi-million-dollar upgrades to Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre also helped in securing the

down and visit the venue and they were absolutely gobsmacked with the upgrades especially the venue’s disability-friendly toilets and changerooms,” she said.

“Everyone was so impressed with our venue after the renovations and I suspect this won’t be the last time we’ll be hosting Nationals.”

Penrith Boccia Club will have three representatives with varying disabilities competing for NSW in Fiona Porch, Connor Hamlin and

Meanwhile, Penrith Boccia Club is calling on up to a dozen volunteers each day to be involved at next week’s National Titles.

Thomas said volunteers will be required to perform several duties including scorekeeping and time keeping.

“Whether people can do a whole day, a couple of days or even a few hours, we need about 12 people per day to help out,” she said.

“Lunch will be provided as will

NATHAN TAYLOR

Paul Hazell, Fiona Porch and Connor Hamlin.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Members of the Penrith Boccia Club.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Wayne Tunks 7

panther rumblings

! Panthers hunt depth: Penrith are working towards filling some roster gaps next season, with plenty of rumours doing the rounds at present. One player rumoured to be in Penrith’s sights is former Newcastle and Bulldogs half Jack Cogger, who has played in England for the last couple of seasons. I’m told he’s being looked at as a potential replacement for Sean O’Sullivan, who admirably filled in for Nathan Cleary during the 2022 season and is heading to the Dolphins next year. There’s also rumours that the club is keen on young Warriors hooker Taniela Otukolo, who has huge wraps on him in New Zealand.

! Cleary in London: Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has no formal role with any team at the Rugby League World Cup, but he’s still headed over to England for the tournament. He’ll be in the stands on Saturday when son Nathan makes his Kangaroos debut against Scotland.

! Leota sidelined: Panthers Grand Final prop Moses Leota was a late withdrawal from New Zealand’s opening World Cup game ear lier this week. The 27-year-old is dealing with a minor groin injury, but it’s hoped he’ll be back on deck for Sunday morning’s clash with Jamaica in Hull.

! Spotted: Panthers legend and Director Greg Alexander at Allianz Stadium for Bruno Mars’ concert last Saturday night.

! Charlie’s a Dad: Congratulations to Penrith winger Charlie Staines and his partner Erin, who welcomed their little girl into the world last weekend. Alora Mae Staines (pic tured) was born on October 11 at 10.25pm, weighing in at 3.5kgs.

will miss our Penrith family very much, but it’s never goodbye you will always be a part of us and our family!” she said on Instagram.

! Freddy’s honour: Panthers 1991 Grand Final winner and local junior Brad Fittler (pictured) has been inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame. Fittler has been recog nised for his illustrious career in rugby league having played 16 seasons with the Panthers and Sydney Roosters. He is the most capped NSW player in Origin history with 31 games and captained the Blues 14 times. “This is a phenomenal achievement by Brad when you consider that he is now recognised in the illus trious company of Australian sporting icons such as Sir Donald Bradman AC and Dawn Fraser AC MBE,” said ARLC Chairman, Peter V’landys. “He has become one of the most respected and admired figures in the game of rugby league and I have the greatest personal regard for Brad. I still have great memories of a young Freddy debuting for Penrith in 1989 while still in high school. It was apparent even then that he would go on to become a brilliant leader in the game.”

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! Special farewell: Viliame Kikau’s partner Brittany has posted an emotional tribute to the Panthers, and the dual Premiership winner’s time at the club. “We thank every single person who has shared a part in our journey so far. We

Roosters in

only 1000 of the product will be produced. It’s available to pre-order now on the Australia Post website.

to that: Local brewery Rusty Penny has released a commemorative 2022

Jack Cogger.