Western Weekender March 22 2024

McIntosh clear to run at next election after Dutton makes his position clear Davies out of Lindsay race

Penrith Deputy Mayor Mark Davies has announced that he will be withdrawing his candidacy for the Federal seat of Lindsay.

Davies was set to challenge Melissa McIntosh, the current holder of the seat, for pre-selection.

But it is understood Dutton’s staunch support of McIntosh in the Weekender last week ultimately forced Davies’ hand.

“Not only do I back her in the pre-selection, but I would say to all people, in what’s a democratic process; I would argue them strongly to back and vote for Melissa,” Dutton told the Weekender

“In our party pre-selections can be contested anywhere – that’s a democratic right – but there is not an outcome that I will accept where Melissa is not the candidate for the next election.

“She’s a great candidate, she’s an integral part of our team, and she will be the candidate for us at the time of the next election.”

Davies said the decision came with a “heavy heart”.

“After careful consideration and discussion with Peter Dutton, it is clear that this action is his strong desire,” Davies said.

“It is with a heavy heart but a firm commitment to the principles of party unity and deep respect for Mr Dutton’s leadership that I have reached this conclusion.”

Davies shared that he entered the race with the hope to serve his community of Lindsay.

“I entered this race with a deep sense of duty and dedication to serving the people of Lindsay and advancing the traditional views of the Liberal Party,” Davies said.

“However, after consultation with Mr Dutton, I believe stepping aside is the most prudent course of action at this time.”

Davies confirmed he remains a

committed member of the Liberal Party and will continue to serve in his role of Deputy Mayor.

“… I will continue to work tirelessly to contribute to the betterment of our community and our nation in my capacity as Deputy Mayor of Penrith City Council,” he said.

“I remain committed to the Liberal Party and its ideals, and I will continue to support our efforts to provide strong and effective leadership for all Australians.”

McIntosh is now set to run unopposed for the seat of Lindsay in pre-selection, meaning she will likely contest a third straight election next year.

Push for more women in politics

Former Federal Senator

Marise Payne says the Liberal Party as a whole needs to come together to ensure more female involvement in the party, saying old fashioned thoughts need to be left behind.

Speaking to the Weekender ’s

On The Record podcast, Payne said she encouraged more women to put up their hand and become involved in politics.

“The more that I can encourage women to stand and

get involved in the political process, I will do with every breath that I have every day of the week,” she said.

“Not just in the Liberal Party, I encourage their participation broadly, but for us it’s immensely important. We have increased the numbers in the state level in New South Wales... but there is more to do.”

Payne said it was important everyone stood up in the party and pushed for more female representation. “It has to be a whole of party effort. One of the things I find most frustrating is those

members of the party who regard it as for the women of the Liberal Party to address. That’s just ridiculous. You need the whole party to address it,” she said.

“In all walks of life – in and out of politics – I have met people who have said to my face that they don’t think I’m suitable for the job that I’m doing because I’m a woman. People still say that in 2024.”

On the podcast, Payne speaks about her extraordinary career in politics – including some of the most difficult decisions and moments of her life as Defence Minister and then Minister for

Foreign Affairs. Search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts to hear the episode with Marise Payne, or visit www.westernweekender.com.au/podcast.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

Mark Davies will not contest Lindsay pre-selection.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton with Melissa McIntosh.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh.

EMILY CHATE

Former Federal Senator, Marise Payne.

TROY DODDS

Council election starts to take shape

What will Penrith City Council look like come September?

With a series of councillors deciding they won’t be recontesting their spots on Council, the upcoming election is set to introduce some new representatives into local government.

As previously reported by the Weekender, long-time councillor and former Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen won’t be recontesting her spot on Council, leaving a definite spot open in East Ward.

“I achieved a lot. I’m happy with what I’ve done and it’s time to look for something new and exciting,” Hitchen said.

Fellow East Ward Councillor Bernard Bratusa said he was “unsure” if he would be recontesting, citing the need to discuss the matter with his family.

Independent Marlene Shipley, who currently holds a spot in East Ward, has confirmed her intention to recontest her spot, saying that she believes she has much more to give in the local community.

“Having invested two-and-a-half years by September 2024, I believe that’s only the beginning. I have so much more to give in the local community,” Shipley said.

Current Penrith Mayor Todd Carney is aiming to stay on for Labor.

In South Ward, Independent Councillor Sue Day has confirmed she will be contesting the election, saying she has loved helping people in the community with their issues.

Penrith’s Deputy Mayor Mark Davies will be

recontesting his place, but Karen McKeown will exit local government after becoming the State Member for Penrith, leaving a definite vacancy. Councillor Mark Rusev has confirmed he will contest the poll.

“It has been an honour to serve my community,” Rusev said.

There is an additional spot open in South Ward after long time councillor Jim Aitken resigned in July of 2023. His seat was not filled after his resignation.

In North Ward, Glenn Gardiner and Jonathan Pullen both plan to contest the election.

Veteran Councillor John Thain will also seek

Labor preselection in the lead-up to the poll in September.

The Weekender wasn’t able to confirm the status of councillors Kevin Crameri, Ross Fowler and Robin Cook at the time of print.

The 2024 NSW Local Government Election will be held on Saturday, September 14.

Independent Sue Day plans to contest the September election. Liberal Councillor Tricia Hitchen is standing down.

EMILY CHATE

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Restaurant crisis needs attention

Our front page story last week on the dire state of Penrith’s hospitality sector certainly garnered plenty of interest and commentary.

I’ve received loads of feedback from restaurant and cafe owners across the Penrith area, and read a tonne of comments online about what’s happening out there.

And I’ve read plenty from the general public too, throwing in their two cents about why so many restaurants and cafés are closing their doors at the moment.

One thing for certain is that there is a clear divide between the realities that hospitality owners are facing and the general customer’s understanding of said pressure.

“That restaurant closed because it was over-priced,” was a common suggestion, not taking into account that if shaving a few dollars off each menu item would have saved said restaurant, the owners would have done it.

The reality is that people are spending less but everything is costing more; from wages and rent to supplies and stock. It is a tough game at present.

I’ve been told by one owner who recently closed the doors on his restaurant that the average individual spend dropped by about $30 over the last 12 months, but his costs went up 30 per cent. The two things obviously can’t be sustained.

And there is no question that all of this is more than just bad luck and coincidence at present, when you consider how long the list of recent closures is.

Chechos, The Bavarian, P’Nut, Taj of the Valley, The Savoury Dining, Duck Duck Goose, Allan Grammar, Avli, High Street Social, Burger Head... the list goes on.

We’ve also got Okami in administration at present and The Brew Lab to close its doors in the near future.

Adding to the intrigue here is that all of these restaurants are different. From Mexican to Vietnamese, burgers to Japanese. It’s not like they fell victim to an over-saturated market or direct competition.

That is part of the sadness of all of this too. After years and years of a ‘same same’ feel

“There is a clear divide between the realities that hospitality owners are facing and the general customer’s understanding of said pressure”

about Penrith’s dining scene, we’d finally started to see an array of new food options, bringing a bit of the city to the west.

Now so many of them are gone and it’s really a backwards step.

Blame? Well, as usual, it’s somewhat shared.

The cost-of-living crisis is certainly biting Penrith restaurants hard in terms of patronage and customer spend, and that probably sits at the top of the list in terms of why so many venues are struggling.

This will have significant impacts politically in the future, given Anthony Albanese came to power on a promise of making things easier for everyday Australians.

His fault or not, it’s very difficult to argue that things aren’t harder now than they were before he came to power.

But a lot of restaurants have also been quick to talk about a lower level of Government, saying they wanted more support from Penrith City Council.

They point to major events using outside food trucks rather than making use of Penrith CBD businesses, and believe that some of Penrith’s marketing tools – like the Visit Penrith website – have fallen away.

There is probably a reasonable point to be made in that Penrith could benefit from a refresh of how some of its food businesses are promoted, whether that’s the use of paid

social media influencers, refreshed tools or specific campaigns focused on local restaurants and experiences.

But eateries of course must take some of the responsibility for their own marketing and who and what they target.

So many focus on building a social media presence that ultimately continues to preach to the converted or becomes extremely costly to cast a net and target the right audience.

There is plenty to be said for the more traditional forms of advertising, from billboards and bus signage to local newspapers, particularly when it comes to attracting audiences with more disposable income and those who may not regularly engage with social media.

I also think public feedback about some venues being cashless, or not having a phone, does deserve to be taken on board.

They are reasonably simple resources to implement and again, it is those people with the higher disposable incomes who are also often the people who want to pay in cash to make bill splitting easier, or who want to be able to talk to somebody on the phone about large bookings or changes.

But of course, you could mount arguments all day about why so many restaurants have faced exsanguination.

One answer is that where we can, we support these businesses as much as possible. Penrith has always been good at standing up in times of crisis, and while this may not have all the emotion of a flood or fire attached, I assure you there’s plenty of people out there hurting.

In most cases these are local people who’ve poured their blood, sweat and tears into making a dream come true.

They are now kept up at night not by customers knocking down their door but by bills piling up and the dreams becoming more like a nightmare.

More hospitality businesses are on the brink right now and the crisis is far from over. You can’t create more money out of thin air, but if you do have the budget, get out and support a local restaurant where you can. You may just play a part in saving them.

Left in lurch by builder

Half-finished homes to be torn down

After going into liquidation, Hawkesbury company Shooey’s Construction has come under fire, with a growing list of customer complaints alleging unfinished and defective work.

Local resident Aaron Wright has known James Shoobridge, the man behind Shooey’s Construction, on a personal level for upwards of 15 years, engaging him for two developments in Jordan Springs after working with him on prior jobs with no issues.

Because of this, he assumed it would be smooth sailing. But, he’s now saying it’s not looking so promising.

“My partner bought the block with the DA done, and I believe we signed the contracts with him in October 2021,” he said.

“We had a 26-week build time for both, and now we’re this far down the line.”

According to Wright, time was the main issue from start to finish, with a desire to eventually move into one home and rent out the other now impacting him greatly two-and-a-half years since it all began.

“It’s just all the lies and the BS you get from him about when they’re coming... and then they just don’t show up,” he said.

“We’re renting while we were building, so it’s cost us a s**tload of money in rent and holding payments with the bank, and obviously

interest rates have gone up, so that’s had a significant cost.”

Ultimately, Wright said that the struggle was all for nothing, with both builds now needing to be pulled down due to water damage leaving them not structurally sound, as confirmed by the PCA.

“The roofs only recently went on, so all the frames and the trusses were erected, but they’ve sat there in the weather for about nine months, so they’re all basically screwed and have got to be pulled down,” he said.

“We’re already 58 weeks overdue now, so it just puts us another year behind the eight ball again.”

Recently, Wright began sharing his experience on social media, garnering over 100 members to a group called ‘Shooey Pty Ltd Reviews & Support’, many of whom who have shared similar stories.

“Since I started to put it on Facebook, there’s probably been another eight to 10 people that are in similar situations to me with half-finished projects and defective work around the Hawkesbury,” he said.

Ernie Chou and Trent McMillen of MaC Insolvency were appointed Liquidators of the company on February 28, 2024. In a statement, McMillen referred these homeowners to iCare’s Home Building Compensation Scheme.

“The company was a homebuilder, commencing operations in 2003. At our

appointment there were six home builds in process at varying stages of completion,” the statement said.

“The company was funding the defence of litigation against it from operational cashflow and loans from the director, and sought the appointment of Liquidators when funding became insufficient.

“Work on home builds has ceased and all home owners have been referred to iCare’s Home Building Compensation Scheme where they can seek redress for incomplete and/or defective works.

“We will investigate the financial affairs of

the company, and its failure, and report to creditors as required by the law.”

Wright acknowledged that he has been able to engage the homeowners warranty, which has fortunately given him and others a way forward.

However, he said that this isn’t enough, calling for Shoobridge to lose his builder’s licence so that this can’t happen to more people in the future.

“I work for myself as well, so I understand that things happen, and people do go broke... but it’s the way he’s gone about it that’s rubbed everyone the wrong way,” he said.

Aaron Wright in front of his Jordan Springs builds. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

St Marys: Man stabbed outside unit; woman fronts court

A man has been stabbed outside his unit in St Marys after a neighbourhood dispute.

At about 1.30am on Sunday, March 18 it is alleged a 39-year-old woman, a resident of a unit block in St Marys, has sent numerous text messages to a 46-year-old, who is also a resident in the same unit block.

It is alleged the pair have a prior history of neighbourhood disputes.

It is alleged at about 1.50am the female attended the male’s unit where they engaged in a heated verbal argument.

This continued for a short time before it is alleged the female produced a small knife from her jumper and stabbed the male on the right side of his chest.

The man retreated into his unit where his son contacted police. The female also returned to her unit.

Police attended the female’s unit where she was arrested. The male was taken to Westmead Hospital for treatment.

The female appeared at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, March 19.

St Marys: Man arrested after refusing to leave licenced premises

A man has been charged with assaulting police after he refused to leave a licenced premises.

At about 5.35pm on Sunday, March 17 a 50-year-old Kirkham man attended a licenced premises in St Marys. The man was refused service by bar staff and asked to leave the premises due to his level of intoxication.

Security have sighted the man and were attempting to escort him from the premises, when the man has allegedly run off into the gaming area of the venue.

Security located the man and have taken hold of a loop on his pants and attempted to escort him to the foyer area. It is alleged the 50-year-old man has become verbally abusive towards security, and security have removed him from the location. It is alleged the 50-year-old attempted to re-enter the location numerous times. Police were contacted and attended the venue.

The man was outside the location where he was arrested for failing to leave a licenced premises. As police attempted to explain the situation to the man it is alleged he became agitated and has hit a police officer on the chin.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was formally charged.

Silverdale: Two men arrested after armed robbery

Two men have been arrested after using a pistol to steal a man’s car in Silverdale.

At about 5.35am on Monday, March 18 a 31-year-old Silverdale man was sitting in his truck on Marsh Road, Silverdale. It is alleged a 28-year-old Homebush West man and a 25-year-old Emu Heights man have approached the window of the truck; one of the men was armed with a pistol.

It is alleged the men have threatened the 31-year-old, smashed the window of the truck, and removed him from it. It is alleged one of the men has entered the truck and driven off while the other man returned to the vehicle they arrived in and drove off.

Later, police have stopped a vehicle on Bradley Street, Glenmore Park where they arrested and charged the two occupants.

Cranebrook: Man arrested after unlawful entry to premises

A man has been charged with unlawful entry to a premises along with assault and drug possession in Cranebrook.

At about 7.00pm on Monday, March 18 it is alleged a 41-year-old male, and a 39-year-old female were in the male’s vehicle when they pulled into a driveway on Goldmark Crescent, Cranebrook.

It is alleged at the same time they have seen a white ute pull up near the driveway.

The male and female have entered their yard through the side gate and closed it behind them.

It is alleged the female was watching the man, a 39-year-old Blacktown resident, who has gotten out of the ute and approached the side gate of the premises, pushing it open and entering.

The 41-year-old male has asked the 39-yearold what he was doing; it is alleged the 39-year-old man has walked past the 41-yearold man, and he has grabbed the man.

It is alleged the 39-year-old man has punched the 41-year-old. The pair have then ended up on the ground in a wrestle, where neighbours have assisted in restraining the 39-year-old.

Police have attended and arrested the 39-year-old.

The man was searched, and it is alleged that located within his sock was a small, clear, resealable plastic bag containing cocaine.

The man was bail refused and appeared at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, March 19.

with Daniel McKinnon 51579

In this week’s column we address some questions that seem to pop up regularly in the context of deceased Estates.

Who has authority to decide how to dispose of a person’s remains?

Ordinarily, this is the job of the Executor of a deceased person’s Will. The Supreme Court has confirmed this position in recent years, even in circumstances where there are competing moral claims (for example, between an Executor wife and a deceased person’s parents).

Where there is no Will, the Administrator of the Estate, who is usually the major beneficiary and by extension often an immediate member of the deceased’s person’s family makes decisions about remains.

Does the Will have to be in writing?

The Succession Act sets out set requirements for a valid Will. However, the same Act makes provision for any informal testamentary document that does not strictly comply with the Act to be designated an official instrument of testamentary disposition by order of the Court. The definition of what constitutes a “document” has also evolved over the years to include things like handwritten notes, irrespective of what they are written on, and digital documents like text messages, notes written on a mobile phone and video recordings.

Do I have to have witnesses to my Will?

The Succession Act sets out that a valid Will must have two witnesses plus the witnesses should be over the age of 18 years and should not be beneficiaries under the Will.

If I die without a Will, doesn’t everything I have just go to my spouse?

Not always. If a person dies leaving a spouse and children who are also children of the spouse then the whole Estate passes to the spouse. If a person dies leaving a spouse and children who are not children of the spouse then the Estate is divided up as to the majority to the spouse but a significant portion to the children of the previous relationship.

If I die without a spouse and/or kids does the Government get my Estate?

This is extremely rare. The Succession Act sets out a list of family members who are entitled to a deceased person’s Estate in the event they die without a Will. This starts with spouse and children, and extends to parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and even cousins. Where there is no person who fits into all of the “family” categories then there is a section of the Act that says the Estate will pass to the Government – however there is also a section where a person who does not fit discretely into one of the categories can make an application to the Government that the Estate should be paid to them. For example, if a person has no family but has had an extremely close relationship with a person or people all of their life and/or have been dependant on them, they may be able to make an application that the Estate should go to them instead of the Government.

Why should I bother writing a Will if it can be contested?

Firstly, there are limited classes of person who can contest a person’s Will (known as a family provision claim). These eligible persons are set out in section 57 of the Succession Act and include spouses/de factos of a deceased person and/or their children and in some cases dependants who lived with the deceased person for a period during their life.

It may be the case that your Will cannot be contested because there are no persons eligible to make a family provision claim.

Also, the default position of the Court is to respect a Will maker’s wishes and therefore there are a number of requirements an eligible Claimant will need to satisfy to convince a Court.

It is always advisable to make a Will even if there is a threat of it being challenged.

This is a snapshot of the types of questions we help our clients answer every day. If you have a question about Wills, Estate planning, or deceased Estates including Will disputes feel free to give us a call to see if we can help.

$23.5 million proposal to build new apartments, retail in St Marys

Plans for a multi-level apartment building and retail hub in St Marys have been revealed with a Development Application being lodged last week.

The multi-million dollar proposal is intended to be built at 9-25 Queen Street, St Marys but is yet to be approved by Penrith City Council.

The plans lodged last week have an estimated cost of $23,500,000 and will include 11 storeys, three for commercial use and the remaining eight for residential use.

The space is designed to have a total of three levels of retail space and 48 residential units

“The ground floor is comprised of 1111m squared of retail floor space, levels one and two are comprised of 1923m squared of commercial floor space, and the residential levels will contain a total of 48 units,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the Development Application said.

Additionally, the site will have three levels of basement car parking with a total of 132 parking spaces.

“The development proposes a total of 132 car parking spaces over the three basement levels,” the SEE said.

“Basement level one will contain 56

commercial/retail car parking spaces. Basement levels two and three will contain 76 residential car parking spaces.”

The residential levels are proposed to have six one-bedroom apartments, 39 two-bedroom apartments, and three three-bedroom apartments.

The site is located in the main street of St Marys and is described as being central to public transport services.

“The site is located on the northern most urban edge of St Marys Town Centre, the

site is situated within a prominent location,” the SEE said.

“[It is] immediately adjacent to a busy suburban train station, bus interchange, and a future metro station.”

The site remains to be approved but said it will promote the economy of St Marys.

“The proposal promotes the economic use and development of the land consistent with its zone and purpose,” the Development Application states.

The existing structures on the site are

proposed to be demolished to make way for the new building.

“It is proposed to demolish the existing structures on the site and undertake excavation to construct a mixed-use complex,” the Application said.

A Traffic Report linked to the Application indicated that there will be minimal adverse traffic effects once the building is constructed.

“The assessment has established that the proposal will not present any adverse traffic implications,” it said.

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

• Jal Design Pty Ltd DA24/0033

Lot 740 DP 1282804, 25 Charbray Avenue, Glenmore Park Two-storey dwelling

• Mark Zeina DA23/0967

Lot 1 DP 865818, 100–104 Mt Vernon Road, Mount Vernon Shed and front fence

• Developable Pty Ltd DA23/0561

Lot 28 DP 232927 and Lot 29 DP 232927,

31 Gough Street, Emu Plains

Torrens Title subdivision including realignment of existing common lot boundary, demolition of existing sheds and construction of single storey dwelling on proposed Lot 2 including landscaping and stormwater drainage works

• Marcela Dalla Palma DA23/1071

Lot 338 DP 270417, 16 Ganton Way, Luddenham

Single storey detached pool house and attached garage

• ESR Management DA24/0096 (Australia) Pty Ltd

Lot 2301 DP 1172543, 57–65 Templar Road, Erskine Park signs

• Pty Ltd

Lot 1 DP 1301351, 2 Markham Avenue, Penrith Strata title subdivision of multi-unit housing into 7 Strata lots

• Signcraft Pty Ltd DA24/0031

Lot 100 DP 1134907, Shopping Centre 180–190 Swallow Drive, Erskine Park

Installation of an acrylic wall sign on the southern elevation of Liquorland Shop at Erskine Park Shopping Centre

• Akura Pty Ltd DA23/0647

Lot 305 DP 1261959, 15 Hickeys Road, Penrith

Construction of 2 warehouse

The proposed site for the multi-million dollar apartment building at 9-25 Queen Street, St Marys. Photo: Melinda Jane. Renders of the proposed site.

Council Briefs

● Penrith Producers is kicking off 2024 down by the Nepean River! Join us on Sunday, 24 March from 9am–2pm at Tench Reserve for a day of market shopping, delicious food and drinks, free kids’ activities and live music.

You won’t want to miss it! Support local businesses as we celebrate the local producers, artists and makers we have right here in Penrith.

For more information go to penrith.city/penrithproducers

● Do you know someone who could be Penrith’s 2024 Young Citizen of the Year? The Local Celebration Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people in our community who dedicate their time to making Penrith a great place to live.

Our next Young Citizen of the Year will be aged 24 or younger and achieved in academics, sport, the arts, charity or community service work. Give and outstanding young person the recognition they deserve!

Find out more about the Awards and how to nominate at penrith.city/local-celebration-awards

● world at Culture Fusion, on Saturday, 23 March 2024, as part of Harmony Week.

Immerse yourself in rhythm at a drumming workshop, or sample cuisine from the Middle East, Mexico, Italy and more! And best of all, it’s free to attend from 4–9pm at Lang Park, 9 Carinya Avenue, St Marys.

Funding for this project has been provided by the NSW Government through Multicultural NSW in partnership with St Marys Town Centre and Penrith City Council. Find out more at penrith.city/culturefusion

● Join us in switching off your lights for Earth Hour.

On Saturday, 23 March from 8.30–9.30pm, Council is participating for its 17th year in turning off non-essential lights at our facilities for an hour in solidarity with thousands across the country.

Earth Hour is a great way to take sustainable action in protecting our planet.

Find out more about the initiative at earthhour.org.au

Public Notice

Public Meeting –Penrith Local Planning Panel

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

• DA22/1047

187–193 East Wilchard Road, Castlereagh

Alterations and additions to an existing dwelling for use as a childcare centre for x 106 children ages 0–12 including a care takers residence and associated parking, on-site sewage management, tree removal and landscaping works

• DA23/0254

34 Great Western Highway, Emu Plains

Use of part of Regatta Park Pavilion as functions and events space

• DA23/0398

75–105 Mamre Road, St Marys

Alterations and additions to the existing St Marys Diggers & Band Club including new indoor/outdoor function area and terrace, club house and kids outdoor play area

When: Wednesday, 27 March commencing at 2pm.

Where: The Penrith Local Planning Panel meeting will be conducted in a hybrid environment with opportunity to attend the meeting in person or connect online via zoom.

To attend the meeting or for an opportunity to address the Panel, please register via the online form at Penrith Council’s website yoursaypenrith.com.au/lpp-register-speak by 4pm on Monday, 25 March 2024.

For any person intending to access the meeting remotely, a meeting invitation with log in details will be provided to those who have registered via the online form 28–48 hours before the scheduled meeting date.

Any person joining the online meeting are informed that the meeting will be audio recorded, and a copy of that recording will be made publicly available following the meeting.

Relevant documents will be available on Penrith Council’s website penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/building-development/ development/local-planning-panel

PAGE TEN

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Returning this season is Animation Minis, the exciting intersection of storytelling, craft and technology! Over two days, kids ages five to seven will draw a storyboard, build their film set, shape their favourite characters out of clay, and work together to bring their story to life frame-by-frame using stop-motion animation.

The perfect team-up of hands-on creative activities and tech skills will love.

Camp’s most

popular creative camps are also back this season including Minecraft Engineers, Roblox Legends, Robotics Camp, and YouTube Creators, offering the coolest few days of STEM learning and fun. Visit www.codecamp.com.au.

The Weekender has one Code Camp valued at $500 to give away. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Code’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, March 29 and

will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

No second sinkhole: Council

Community fears of a second Leonay sinkhole have faded after Council confirmed the damage on Leonay Parade has been fixed.

What was thought to be a second sinkhole in Leonay has turned out to be a hole in the road caused by a damaged private use pipe.

The depression in the road was caused by a leaking pipe beneath the road’s surface.

There were initial reports that indicated it may have been a Sydney Water line, but this was confirmed not to be the case.

A spokesperson for Penrith City Council confirmed that last Friday, March 15 temporary repairs were made to make the road drivable.

“Council temporarily repaired the road surface to prevent damage to motor vehicles using Leonay Parade, Leonay,” the spokesperson said.

Penrith City Council has confirmed that a road plate was put over the damaged road in order to make the road safe and unimpede the flow of traffic.

It has been confirmed by Council to the Weekender that the temporary road repairs are maintaining well.

“The road repair is still in very good condition after Council repaired the hole on Friday,” a spokesperson said.

Leonay residents are extra cautious as they have been dealing with a sinkhole in their suburb for over 18 months.

It was more than a year and a half ago that a crater appeared on River Road, Leonay, after a flooding event of the nearby Nepean River.

Council had previously advised Leonay residents the sinkhole would be fixed by the beginning of 2024 but, as it stands, the original sinkhole remains unfixed.

Works on the original sinkhole in Leonay continue.

Penrith City Council has re-affirmed its commitment to Ripples St Marys, despite issues preventing it from being fully operational.

There has been community concerns over the longevity of Ripples St Marys.

Community member

Leslie Richardson has been a long time member of the centre and has expressed her concerns over the operation of the pool.

“Penrith City Council took over the management and operation of this centre from the board members four years ago. Since then, it has been a gradual decline,” she said.

Richardson said the indoor pool has been non-operational a series of times, the spa and sauna has closed numerous times, and the kids splash park is being consistently closed.

“The spa and sauna closes every now and then, one day a week we will come and it will be closed,” she said.

“The splash park for the kids is always closed, never operating. We get a lot of

excuses, people with kids who have asked have been told that there needs to be a duty manager to operate it and we can’t find them.”

Richardson also noted that the indoor pool has been shut during peak school holiday times.

A Council spokesperson said a significant failure at the site is behind many of the problems.

“In December, Ripples St Marys experienced a significant and unexpected failure of the pool’s filtration system which resulted in the loss of approx. 200,000 litres of water over a short period of time,” the spokesperson said.

“As a result, water quality could not be maintained

in accordance with public health guidelines, and the pool was closed to allow an investigation into the cause of the failure to be undertaken.

“Interim repairs were unsuccessful, and our investigation of the problem found that no guarantees could be given on the longevity of temporary repairs.

“The closure of the indoor pool has created a range of operational challenges and disrupted services for the community. Staff have implemented a range of scheduling and programming changes to minimise the disruption as a result of the ongoing repair work.”

The indoor pool will be closed until early April.

The first sinkhole on River Road, Leonay. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Ripples St Marys. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

EMILY CHATE

Hair today, gone tomorrow

Leonay local has first hair cut in nearly 20 years – all for a cause close to his heart

CASSIDY PEARCE

38-year-old Leonay resident Dane Wilkinson hadn’t had a haircut in 19 years, with dreadlocks for 17 of them. Though he’d always intended to participate in the World’s Greatest Shave when he finally decided to get the big chop, a shock diagnosis close to home meant he’d be doing it a lot sooner than anticipated.

Wilkinson’s nine-year-old nephew Casey was diagnosed with leukaemia in January, sending shockwaves through the family, and leading him to decide that now was the time to get rid of his hair.

“As soon as I heard, I thought there was no better time to do it,” he said.

In the lead up, Wilkinson admitted he was feeling extremely emotional, given the attachment he’d developed to his hair over the last two decades. But, it was all for a worthy cause.

“When it came to the day, I was obviously a little bit hesitant, but I couldn’t go back on it now!” he said.

Wilkinson’s shave was a private event on Saturday, held at his partner’s Penrith hair salon.

“I actually cut some of the dreads off myself, but then obviously having dreads that long I had to have a bit of a scalp treatment, and

then she shaved the whole thing off,” he said.

The shave was also attended by Casey and his father, as well as

Wilkinson’s parents and son, which he said made it even more special.

“When Casey saw me shave my head, it made him feel alright, and

he goes, ‘You look cool!’. So, I asked if he wanted to cut his hair, and he said, ‘Yes’,” he said.

“We shaved his head as well, because he’s obviously losing his hair now because of the treatment.”

So far, Wilkinson has raised just short of $10,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation, with the help of family, friends and clients of both him and his partner.

“On the day, I think an extra $2000 was donated,” he said.

“I just went to a job, and the client was like ‘Send me a link, I’ll send some money today!’

“It has mostly been friends and family, and a lot has come from clients at the salon, because my partner has really been pushing that.”

Though he said he couldn’t be more grateful for the support he’s received so far, Wilkinson is still pushing for his $25,000 goal, encouraging everyone to donate and get involved with the World’s Greatest Shave if they can.

To donate to Wilkinson’s page, visit bit.ly/49ZZ5Yc.

To sign up to shave, cut or colour your hair for World’s Greatest Shave this year, visit worldsgreatestshave. com.

Group offers safe space, inclusion

LGBTQ+ families in the Penrith area are encouraged to join the Rainbow Families Penrith Chapter, an inclusive space where families of all descriptions are welcome to share their experiences.

The Penrith Chapter has recently been revived under Chapter Coordinator Vik Azzopardi, who said the organisaton is an all inclusive safe space for rainbow families to discuss common issues.

“We usually come together to talk about some common issues we’ve been having,” Azzopardi said.

“The young parents or the ones with younger kids who have just started a family usually talk about things we just went through with the pregnancy and how we are looking for childcare.

“So, there is a lot of things that kind of come with being a rainbow parent.”

Azzopardi said that monthly meet ups are part of the agenda this year, with the first meeting taking place on March 24 at The Orchard.

“It is roughly the third Sunday of the month... that’s the monthly event for the year,” Azzopardi said.

“So, everyone can meet up and by holding it at the same spot means we don’t have to have anyone there who has to be there to manage the group. It’s everyone who needs to meet up and talk to people and get some time to all come together.”

Azzopardi shared the organisation helped both her and her partner, Mikhayla, as they navigated life as new parents to twin girls.

“With Rainbow Families, I found that they had a group and I put out a

post on Facebook... asking if anyone wanted to meet up,” Azzopardi said.

“We just picked a park, and they all said we would love to meet up.”

Azzopardi reiterated that it is a safe and inclusive space that looks to connect one rainbow family with another.

“We’ve got a few people who want to come along because they are starting families, [they] kind of go ‘you guys have kids, how did you do it?’” Azzopardi said.

“We’ve got some transgender parents as well, and they get an opportunity to talk about options.”

Families looking to join the Penrith Rainbow Families can do so via Facebook. Visit www.rainbowfamilies.com.au.

Before: Dane with his famous hair.

After: Dane fresh from his cut.

Vik and partner Mikhayla Azzopardi with their twin babies.

EMILY CHATE

Good Fry-day: Takeaway shops prepare for busiest

The day fish and chip shops all look forward to is just around the corner with the Easter long weekend fast approaching.

Penrith local business Fish Fish is set to have its biggest day of the year on Good Friday.

The Easter long weekend is just one week away and Fish Fish owner Phil Hallani said that preparations have already begun.

“You are prepping all week,” he said.

“It’s mainly the last 24-48 hours that you can prep to maintain freshness.

“We’ve got to maintain the standard and quality that Fish Fish has.”

Good Friday is a Catholic religious holiday where it is customary for people to substitute meat for fish or to fast, only eating three small meals.

This year the public holiday will fall on Friday, March 29 with the long weekend ending on Monday, April 1. Hallani shared that Good Friday is one of the busiest days of the year.

“It’s by far the busiest day of the year for fish and chip shops,” Hallani said.

“For two years in a row it has by far been the busiest day of the year.

“It is definitely a crazy, controlled choas day, which is pretty cool.”

Fish Fish will be operating under a reduced menu with a main focus on their fresh seafood.

“Predominantly at Fish Fish on Good Friday we have a bit of a reduced menu,” Hallani siad.

“We focus solely on grilled and battered fish, salads, all the main seafood we sell, [and] we still sell our potato scallops.

“It is mainly focusing on a really good and high quality seafood for the day.”

Fish Fish offers a range of high quality seafood options, including their famous fish burgers.

“Our burgers as well, are just a massive hit on Good Friday,” Hallani said.

“Our fish burgers are always popular, but on Good Friday they are very popular.”

Most fish and chip shops will be open on Good Friday, with many taking pre-orders to prepare for the expected rush.

Fish Fish on Smith Street, Penrith.

Fresh seafood is available at Fish Fish on Good Friday.

Some of the packs you can order at Fish Fish on Smith Street, Penrith.

EMILY CHATE

FRIDAY, 5 APRIL 9AM-3PM

WESTERN SYDNEY CONFERENCE CENTRE

A star-studded line-up of industry leaders and change makers will feature at the signature “Lights On” event at the Western Sydney Conference Centre on Friday, April 5.

Speakers, presenters and panellists will highlight key challenges and discuss solutions a ecting the tourism sector in the Western Sydney region.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

Hosted by Penrith Valley Chamber in partnership with Blue Mountains Tourism, the Lights On Western SydneyVisitor Economy Forum promotes Penrith City as a hub for visitors to Sydney and the Blue Mountains, ahead of the new Western Sydney International airport opening in 2026.

SIMON

STEVE

JACQUELINE

Let’s end the stereotypes

Why a Down syndrome diagnosis should not be cause for sadness and apologies

CASSIDY PEARCE

When Claremont Meadows mum Julie Louden found out her baby girl had Down syndrome, she said she couldn’t understand what all the fuss was about – until a specialist gave her a reason to.

“He said, ‘Oh well, your child’s got Down syndrome’, and that was it, and I said, ‘What does that mean?

She’s pretty healthy, that means she’ll lead a fairly normal life?’, and he goes, ‘Oh no, she’ll never be normal’,” she said.

It was this interaction that instilled her with fear, followed by people around her continually offering apologies and concerns before congratulations.

“It was pretty traumatic, realistically, now looking back,” she said.

“We didn’t tell anyone until she was about six-weeks-old. We had to process it ourselves before we felt comfortable telling anyone, but she had to have heart surgery at six-weeks-old, so we had to tell everyone why.

“There was no congratulations involved, it was just all about how

sorry we are that you didn’t get a healthy baby, when we did actually get a healthy baby.”

Julie’s daughter Bridie Louden is now 18, but it seems that nothing has changed, with parents of now two-year-old Henry Fisher experiencing the same “stressful and traumatic” interactions at their 12-week scan all these years later.

“Upon reflection, it’s quite focused on the negatives of what Down syndrome is,” mum Jenny Lai said.

“We got told that our baby would

have all these complications, and we’d been trying to fall pregnant for ages, and to have that presented to you, it shattered us.”

Almost immediately, both families recall connecting to Down Syndrome NSW – an organisation which aims to provide assistance for people with Down syndrome and their families – a game changer for all in terms of sourcing information and support systems.

According to Julie, thanks to the help she’s received, Bridie is truly

thriving, currently completing Year 12 at Nepean CAPA High School in the support unit, and working her dream job at Officeworks.

“The school have been great, and they’ve helped me out with Officeworks at Penrith,” she said.

“The store manager there is amazing, and he’s taken her on once a week for a couple of hours.”

Henry is also doing incredibly well, with some of his favourite things including making friends, the Sydney Swans, and grocery shopping at Cranebrook Woolworths. He is also multilingual, and is able to understand and communicate in Chinese Teochew, English and Auslan.

“He’s not what was painted to us at that 12-week scan. He’s done really well,” she said.

“He loves singing and dancing, kicking around the ball, and he’s really obsessed with buses at the moment. He’s defied a lot of expectations of what Down syndrome is.”

Henry’s father Kieran Fisher said that a lot of the reasons he’s been able to beat these expectations is that the two of them have never limited him, aligning with this year’s World Down Syndrome Day

theme, ‘End the Stereotypes’, celebrated on Thursday, March 21.

“As teachers, we’re consistently told to have high expectations of our students, and it’s the same for people with disabilities,” he said.

“If we limit them by setting limits on their potentials, we’re already putting them at a disadvantage.”

Reflecting on the time between Henry’s diagnosis and now has only driven them more to create change on a broader scale.

“[Initially], we didn’t get a balanced opinion, and that’s something that’s very important and that we are really pushing for,” Fisher said.

Julie is also hoping to shine a light on how incredible people with Down syndrome can be.

“There’s a lot of struggles, don’t get me wrong, but overall, they’re a lot like any typical child. They have their moments, and they have their good times, and they have their moods like any teenager does, but apart from that, they’re just delightful,” she said.

“Would I change anything? Of course I would. I would change her struggles, I would try to take away all of that, but, I wouldn’t change who she is.”

Jenny Lai, Henry Fisher and Kieran Fisher. Photo: Melinda Jane.

There’s a buzz about honey

Werrington Downs local hopes for help from above to win Easter Show honours

CASSIDY PEARCE

The Sydney Royal Easter Show is officially underway, having kicked off at Sydney Olympic Park today.

Plenty of eager competitors have been honing their skills, completing creations and doing final taste tests over the last few weeks in hopes of taking home one of the show’s coveted prizes. But, for Werrington Downs local Frank Molloy, a win would mean even more.

Molloy first became interested in native Australian bees in 2015, when he went to visit his niece in Brisbane.

“She had hockingsi bees there, which is a native form of tetragonula bee, and I was fascinated by the little creatures flying around her backyard, and realised they were excellent pollinators,” he said.

“When I got back to Sydney, I researched it and realised I couldn’t have her bees, but there was another type of native bee which goes all the way down south to Bega, and that’s the tetragonula carbonaria.”

It was in 2018 that he bought his very first hive, going on to learn to

make hives himself to ensure that his bees could survive the western Sydney heat.

Now, he has 14 hives across the east coast, with around 10 in western Sydney, and two at his home.

“They’re true local bees,” he said.

The remainder of the hives can be found with Molloy’s family members, who foster the hives on his behalf. Molloy said he takes the honey every two years, leaving some for the bees so they survive over winter.

Though starting somewhat of a family dynasty may seem crazy to some, Molloy assures they love it just as much as he does.

“They say to me, ‘You’re not getting the hive back’, because it is very addictive,” he said.

“They’re stingless, Australian native bees, so they can’t hurt the kids, they can’t hurt you, they can’t hurt the pets. It’s basically just having a coffee in the morning and watching them fly in and out, because they only come out over 18 degrees, and in winter time you may not see them if it’s cold.”

Molloy entered honey for the first time last year at the Ekka, where he came in second place.

But, the significance of this honey in particular is that it came from the hive of his sister Dotty, who suddenly passed two years ago.

Now, he’s going to have another go with honey from the same St Marys hive at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.

According to Molloy, the honey has a unique taste, with no two native honeys quite the same.

“Where the bees forage is where they pick up the flavour of the honey,” he said.

“My sister has a hive up in Maryborough in Queensland, and the hive she has is next to chili, so it’s a very hot honey to taste.

“The one that we’ve entered tastes like lemon myrtle, and it’s beautiful. It’s a lot more watery than a normal honey, but it certainly has its own unique flavour – perfect drizzled on ice cream.”

Certain that he can win after last year’s results, Molloy said he can’t wait for the day to arrive.

“It’s exciting when you win, so I’m just looking forward to the results this year,” he said.

“I won’t be disappointed if I don’t win a prize, but I’m sure somebody’s watching from above.”

Frank Molloy with Dotty’s hive.

Incredible women honoured at new awards event in the west

CASSIDY PEARCE

Western Sydney University has officially announced the winners of the inaugural Women of Western Sydney Awards, with a number of them making a difference in the lives of Penrith locals every day.

The new awards aim to honour and pay tribute to women who live, work and support the western Sydney community, recognising the contributions they make to the region and recognising their achievements.

Kingswood-based Matilda Harry, a proud Wiradjuri woman, has devoted her life to creating positive social change through education, centring the experiences of young Indigenous leaders to better understand Indigenous Australian aspirational development and achievement, and reframe dominant discourse which privileges Western success ideologies.

According to Harry, some of the biggest highlights of her life so far have been engaging with people in the community, constantly making time to volunteer.

“Whether it be spending time as an educator in the Northern Territory completing community service projects or times here in western Sydney as a Reading Ambassador, a Pathways to Dreaming mentor or a handler at Riding for

the Disabled, I take every opportunity to give my time and share my story,” she said.

At the ceremony, Harry was announced as the Young Woman of Western Sydney. Though she admitted her shock at the win, she added that she was honoured to have her efforts recognised in “such an esteemed room”.

“Women in western Sydney lead, innovate and advocate with a special kind of fierce. Let us continue to celebrate our power, authority and agency,” she said.

As for what’s next for Harry, she’s on her way to completing her thesis, after which she

plans to undertake post-doctoral research that will result in delivering strategies to improve higher education opportunities for marginalised communities.

“While the thesis trajectory has had its challenges, I am grateful for the opportunity and cannot wait to become Dr Harry when I graduate next year,” she said.

Jhan Leach won the Woman of Western Sydney (Community) award.

Though the majority of her work is done through Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre, their work also extends into

the Penrith area, as the provider for Legal Aid NSW of the Nepean Blue Mountains Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service.

The free service aims to provide information, referrals, safety planning, court advocacy and case management services to women experiencing domestic and family violence and their children, and also has specialist workers in the program who are Aboriginal and cultural and linguistically diverse to ensure that all clients feel safe and supported.

Having lived and worked in the area earlier in her life, Leach said that she was more emotional than anticipated when accepting the award.

“I felt like in some ways that I’d done a complete circle, and what an amazing thing to come back all these years later and be offered such an amazing award because of the work I’ve done in community all these years, trying to raise awareness for domestic and family violence, and working with women who have been victims and their children,” she said.

“Getting up to speak, I started crying, because of the whole thing of coming full circle, and coming to where my life started, and being back there again but having achieved something that was being looked at by all these other amazing women and community leaders as something that I was deserving of, was incredibly humbling.”

WSU’s Jennifer Westacott (centre) with award winners Alicia Talbot, Mouna Zaylah, Matilda Harry, Alison Covington, Anna Dasler, Sahera Sumar and Jhan Leach. Photo: Sally Tsoutas.

Everything is bigger in Texas.

This Sunday, after running a very popular first eating competition, Brisket Boys are holding their second installment of the One Metre Texas Hotlink Challenge – yes, you read that right... one metre!

Hotlink is the housemade sausage that the boys make in house at their restaurant with brisket, pork, jalapeno and cheese, so it has a little bit of spice.

“We normally sell our link by the 100g portion but for this challenge each competitor needs to complete one full metre plus four of our sides within a time period,” said Operations and Events Manager, Dan Latty.

“We have prizes for those that get it done in time and a cash jackpot for anyone who breaks the record time that was set – six minutes 20 seconds last month.”

There will be plenty of atmosphere down at Brisket Boys in the courtyard with live music and with their liquor license, those in attendance can enjoy a beverage or two watching the event live.

Head down from 11am to try Brisket Boys’ barbecue menu and hang around for the eating comp from 1pm.

“We plan to hold our eating competition every month moving forward on the last Sunday of the month, you can nominate a friend via our socials or head to the brisketboys.com.au Competition Page to submit your application to compete,” Latty said.

Brisket Boys is located at The Manufactor precinct next to Drink West Brewery at 2115 Castlereagh Road, Penrith with plenty of parking onsite, shaded seating and is dog friendly.

Australian vacuum retailer Godfreys has officially collapsed less than two months after entering Voluntary Administration, with the final remaining Penrith store set to close imminently.

At the beginning of the year, Godfreys operated 141 stores and employed more than 600 staff members across Australia and New Zealand, with an additional 28 stores run by franchisees.

This number diminished significantly on January 30, when Godfreys Group entered Voluntary Administration, and 54 of those stores would promptly close in the two weeks following.

Though the Nepean Village store was impacted in these closures, the Penrith Mulgoa Road Superstore was left standing.

However, employees of Godfreys were notified on Wednesday that all remaining stores would be closing.

Speaking to the Weekender, Store Manager Emilio Prince said that the closures mark the end of an era.

“Unfortunately, we had some buyers, but they’ve all dropped out last minute, so our creditors told us that unfortunately within the next five to 10 weeks, we will be shut, and unfortunately Godfreys will no longer exist – we’ll be going into liquidation,” he said.

With long personal history with the store, Prince said that he was “devastated”, particularly given that just

a few weeks ago he thought that the store would be making its century.

“Hearing this kind of news, it’s come as a shock to all of our team members,” he said.

“We’ve been telling the community today, and they’ve been shocked too.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Harmony Week

This week is Harmony Week, an important national celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity that recognises our shared values of equality and freedom.

To mark the occasion, we are hosting Culture Fusion a fun free multicultural event on Saturday, March 23 2024 at Lang Park, St Marys!

I invite the community to join us at this fun-filled night for the whole family to enjoy the best beats, bites and performances from all over the world.

This is a fantastic opportunity to participate in our drumming workshop or soak up a variety of cultural performances including a lion dance from Emerald Dragon and a traditional Persian performance by AvaZan, an all female musical group. Then why not take your taste buds on a trip around the globe with cuisine from the Middle East, Mexico, Italy and more! This event will bring people together from all different backgrounds to foster a sense of inclusiveness, respect and

Where are people going to go to buy their vacuums? Yes, you might have the big retailers like Harvey Norman, but what happens when you need to service your machine? Where do you go?”

Though he knows the closure is coming soon, Prince said there are plenty of uncertainties for him and his staff members.

“We don’t know anything as of yet. All they have done is prepared us to look for new jobs,” he said.

“It’s a big thing, and having over 400 employees in Australia and New Zealand look for jobs, especially in this day and age, it’s going to be pretty hard, especially since we specialise in just vacuum care. There’s nowhere to go from there.”

Prince extended a thanks to the local community in Penrith who have supported him and his stores.

“We just want to say on behalf of everyone that worked with us at Godfreys in Penrith, a huge thank you to our entire community for helping us and keeping our business surviving as long as it did,” he said.

belonging that we hope will extend far beyond just the one day.

Our Penrith community comes from more than 110 countries, speaks more than 80 languages and practices many different faiths and cultural traditions built on over 60,000 years of First Nations Aboriginal Cultural Heritage. I’m proud to celebrate this diversity as it enriches our community and strengthens Penrith as a more resilient and welcoming City.

Thank you to the NSW Government, through Multicultural NSW, and St Marys Town Centre for partnering with us to fund this important project.

As part of Harmony Week, I’ll also be attending the Community Leaders Dinner on 21 March to speak with important members of our community.

I hope to see you all at Culture Fusion this Saturday from 4pm to 9pm at Lang Park, (9 Carinya Avenue) St Marys.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

DON’T MISS OUR NEW PODCAST

If you’re a Penrith Panthers fan, don’t miss ‘10 Minute Match Day’, a new podcast released on Penrith Panthers game days presented by the Weekender

Just search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts to hear all our podcasts, or visit www.westernweekender. com.au/podcast.

Participants in last month’s eating challenge.

Emilio Prince. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Passionate about cleaning

Local 22-year-old competes in major competition to find Australia’s fastest cleaner

CASSIDY PEARCE

Penrith local and self-proclaimed clean freak Denise Martinazzo has been passionate about keeping things in order ever since she was a child, finding that nothing puts her mind at ease like a tidy home.

“I’ve always been very organised,” she said.

“Feeling clean and having a clean environment just makes me feel calmer, so ever since I was a child I was just developing those skills.”

According to the 22-year-old, this also comes into play in her work as a fertility clinician.

“With my job, because I need to have such keen attention to detail, I’m just always looking at the little cracks and trying to make sure everything’s covered,” she said.

But, her skills have never been proven – that is, until the VIVA House of Spills came around.

Martinazzo came across the competition to be named Australia’s fastest cleaner on TikTok, and knew immediately that it was right up her alley.

“Everyone that knows me has said

that I’m a fanatic, and that I can be a little bit crazy sometimes with it. I clean other people’s desks at work, I clean other people’s kitchens when I go over, because I just see mess and I need to clean it, so I thought, ‘I can probably do this’,” she said.

“I also sent through a photo, it was

my boyfriend’s mum, she got me a cleaning hamper for my birthday last year, and I was so happy about it! I thought, surely they’d think I was crazy enough to do it.”

Two weeks later, she was ecstatic to receive a call at work letting her know she had been named a final-

ist. When the day of the competition came around, Martinazzo said she had mixed emotions.

Armed with nothing but VIVA paper towel, Martinazzo would be competing against four other expert cleaners from across the country to clean an all-white display home, housing some of the most common unforgiving spills and messes from red wine spills to muddy footprints, in the quickest time possible.

“I was very excited because I knew that whatever happened, it would be fun, but I was nervous because there was a timer,” she said.

Though she didn’t end up taking out the title, which ultimately went to 22-year-old Western Australian Jason Shipway of popular cleaning TikTok page @jason_cleans, Martinazzo said she had the best time trying – made even better by the paper towels she got to take home afterwards.

“It was a lot harder than I expected, and a lot more of a mess than I thought, but it was a lot of fun, and I did smell like barbeque sauce afterwards,” she said. Your top cleaning tip? News@ westernweekender.com.au.

Denise’s Top Tips

As one of Australia’s fastest cleaners, Martinazzo has a few expert tips for anyone trying to beat the clock at home.

1. According to Martinazzo, she likes to avoid harsh chemicals where possible, instead opting for things like vinegar and dish soap.

2. When she’s cleaning, Martinazzo goes through plenty of paper towels and other disposable tools to ensure that everything is as sanitary as possible.

3. Attention to detail is one of the most important factors in ensuring a space looks and feels clean. Getting into the cracks makes more of a difference than you’d think!

4. This may not be what you want to hear, but doing a little bit of cleaning regularly really does make it less of a big job – it can also be incredibly satisfying!

Denise Martinazzo competed in a national cleaning competition.

Generosity shines bright

Lions Clubs of Cambridge Park, Emu Plains and Penrith have joined forces to gift Cranebrook boy Matthew Brown a RAD Race Runner, enabling him to pursue his passion for athletics.

According to Treasurer of the Lions Club of Cambridge Park and Zone 9 Chair, Linda Lamond, Matthew’s case was brought to her attention in September last year by the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation, after which she took it to the Zone for consideration.

“The three clubs in our area – Penrith, Cambridge Park, and Emu Plains – were straight away on board,” she said.

After getting the finances approved, raised through the Lions Chocolate Wheel at Westfield Penrith, Lamond was able to have the equipment ordered, liaising with 10-year-old Matthew’s physiotherapist.

Once the Race Runner arrived, members of the three Lions Clubs were invited to a fitting at Western Sydney University’s Kingswood Campus, attended also by Matthew’s physiotherapist, and a representative from Dejay.

At this fitting, the Lions were able to see Matthew learn to use the Race Runner, and participate in exercises with him – an emotional experience for all.

“It brings a lump to my throat, where I could

see Matthew there with a big smile on his face and his feet on the ground, and he was running in that runner,” Lamond said.

“For us as Lions, quite often we do donate a

lot of money to a lot of causes, but it’s just so heartwarming to be there and see the benefit that has been given to a child.”

The event was just as emotional and exciting

for Matthew and his mum Melanie Brown.

“I think the Lions Club actually wanted to present him with the frame runner, but they didn’t have the opportunity, because as soon as he saw it, he was on there!” she said.

Melanie said the journey to get Matthew a Race Runner has been a long one, having first been loaned one by Dejay for a school athletics carnival in 2022.

“The smile on his face the first time he got on the frame runner at the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, I knew that it was something that was going to bring him so much more independence than riding a modified bike,” she said.

“The freedom on his face, the smile on his face, he was just beaming. It was nothing like I’d ever seen before.”

When they weren’t able to get one through NDIS, they were suggested to go through the Lions, who had been looking to donate something like this to a local child.

Since getting his RAD Race Runner, Matthew has been using it non-stop, running with his dog, and training for triathlons with his dad.

“Being in the frame runner, he could go again, and again, and again,” Melanie said.

“It really is the best fit for him.”

Matthew now has big dreams of competing in frame running at the Paralympics.

“Bring on Brisbane is all I can say!” Melanie said.

Karen’s Comment

The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

Penrith’s seniors honoured for contributions to Penrith community

female division in the Sydney ANZAC Day March.

This year, I celebrated seniors’ invaluable role in our community during the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival. The theme, ‘Reach Beyond,’ spoke to how today’s seniors defy many preconceptions about ageing and remain active community members well into their 80s and 90s. It was a pleasure to support the Local Achievement Awards as we celebrated and acknowledged the invaluable work seniors do within our Penrith community. These efforts span a plethora of fields, including Business, Environment and agriculture, Health and Wellbeing, Lifelong Learning, and Community Service.

Among those honoured was Betty Sutherland, who was recognised as the recipient of the Penrith Senior of the Year for 2024. Betty’s journey is one of resilience, humility, and boundless generosity. Her dedication to the Member Sub-branch of Penrith RSL for over 40 years is truly inspiring. Despite being in her nineties, Betty is known to many for fundraising by selling raffle tickets in the RSL foyer. Betty has been President, Secretary and Committee Member of the WRAAF and continues to march on behalf of the

‘Authorised

Since the 1980s, Betty has been a member of the Nepean Hospital Auxiliary, selling cakes, biscuits, and knitting to support the Nepean NICU. She’s helped raise over $1 million in this time. Western Sydney University awarded Betty an honorary degree for knitting thousands of woollen skull caps to assist premature babies with critical temperature regulation. Betty has dedicated many years to raising funds for the Nepean Hospital and returned servicemen and their families. Betty is a quiet achiever but her contributions to our community are immeasurable, and it is with heartfelt gratitude that I was able to present her with this well-deserved recognition. I want to thank all those nominated for the Local Achievement Award. Your dedication, perseverance, and kindness inspire everyone and embody this year’s NSW Seniors Festival’s spirit of ’Reach[ing] Beyond’.

Jill Brown, Nicole Celeban, Neil Gallaghan, Susan Gallagher, Kristine Gauci, Allan Jones, Ditte Kozak, Richard Power.

Members of the Lions Club with Matthew Brown.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Surprize Fries: There’s magic in the air at Macca’s this week with the launch of Surprize Fries – a brand new, great value game that will give Aussies a one in four chance to win millions of prizes. Customers can now purchase a medium or large fries – either on their own or part of a meal – and peel their ticket for the chance to win prizes including travel, experience and online retail gift cards, delicious menu favourites and exclusive Macca’s merch. Additionally, any customer who peels and scans their ticket into the MyMacca’s app has the chance to gain an entry into the Weekly Cash Draw, with the chance to win a whopping $10,000 cash every week.

Δ Know a deserving underdog? Soccer legend Mary Fowler (pictured above) is backing community sport underdogs, in a new partnership with Uber to sponsor Australia’s most deserving reserve grade team. Uber is kicking off the pursuit for the most worthy reserve team to be awarded $50,000 for their relentless work to keep their sporting team alive. Community sporting teams across Australia are invited to enter into the running and demonstrate why their team is deserving of the grant in a video

submission. “This initiative aims to recognise the underdogs and the underfunded on the reserve bench, in their consistent pursuit to keep their club, and community spirit alive,” Fowler said. “I resonate with their fighting community spirit, as it spurred my love for soccer 14 years ago in my hometown in Cairns. Without it, I simply wouldn’t be where I am today, playing professionally and for my national team.” Visit www.reservegradeheroes.com. au for more information and to enter a team.

Δ Gourmet chilli: Factory, one of Australia’s leading boutique producers of chilli sauces, salsas, and other hot and spicy condiments and longtime exhibitor at The Royal Sydney Easter Show, will be officially launching four new chilli products at the show this year. Chilli lovers visiting The Chilli Factory’s stand in the Woolworths Dome will have the opportunity to try the new gourmet range

of chilli oils, chilli honey, and chilli chocolate sauce, which are perfect for adding zing to savoury and sweet dishes. Visit www. thechillifactory.com.

Δ Upgrade your burrito:

Fancy a premium steak on your next burrito? Well, you can now wrap your hands around the delicious new Mexican dish, Carne Asada, from Mad Mex for under $15 (pictured below). The new menu item is available now and features freshly grilled pastureraised skirt steak, marinated in authentic Mexican herbs and spices, grilled to perfection, then cut into thin strips and added to a famous Mad Mex burrito or bowl.

Egg-citing Easter at The Bunker

Get ready for an egg-citing Easter adventure at The Bunker Mulgoa as the popular eatery presents the ‘Easter Eggstravaganza at The Bunker Mulgoa’ on Easter Saturday.

This family-friendly event is set to bring joy and excitement to kids under 13 and their families, promising a delightful day of fun-filled activities, delicious treats, and the chance to win amazing prizes.

Children will embark on a quest to find hidden Easter eggs scattered throughout the picturesque grounds. The day promises a range of activities, delightful treats, and the opportunity to win fabulous prizes, making it a perfect Easter celebration for the whole family.

The event takes place between 10am and 1pm at The Bunker Mulgoa.

In addition to the Eggstravaganza, there will be wood fired pizza all long weekend, a brand-new kids menu and Easter dessert specials.

Kids can enjoy face painting and engage in Easter-themed crafts while there will be tasty treats and refreshments

There’s also terrific prizes up for grabs on the day, including a Family Pass to the zoo, Senic World tickets and platinum passes to

Make this Easter a memorable one for your family at The Bunker Mulgoa’s Easter Eggstravaganza! Join the team on on Easter Saturday from 10am to 1pm for a day of festive fun and egg-citeVisit www.thebunker.au for more information.

The Bunker Mulgoa is located at 1319 Mulgoa

Make sure you follow The Bunker on social media for the latest on special events happening at their various locations.

The Blue Mountains Record

www.bluemountainsrecord.com.au

WITH HANNAH STACK WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

A quick guide to doing competitor analysis for small businesses

Understanding your competition is crucial for any business, big or small. But for small businesses, doing a competitor analysis can seem daunting. Where do you even start? And more importantly, how can you use this information to your advantage?

Why competitor analysis matters

If you ever felt like you’re navigating the business world with a blindfold on, knowing what your competitors are up to can feel like uncovering a secret map that leads to treasure. But doing a competitor analysis isn’t about spying – it’s about understanding the landscape you’re operating in. It helps you see where you stand, what your competitors are doing right (or wrong), and where there are gaps you can exploit.

For small businesses, competitor analysis is your toolkit for survival and growth. It helps you:

Understand industry benchmarks and standards.

Identify trends and adapt your strategies accordingly.

Find gaps in the market for new or improved products/services.

Refine your value proposition to stand out from the crowd.

How to conduct a competitor analysis

or services do they provide? How do they market them? What prices do they charge?

Evaluate their strengths and weaknesses: Use SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to get a clearer picture.

Monitor their marketing strategies: Pay attention to their online presence, social media activity, content, and any advertising campaigns.

Understand their customer experience: Look at reviews, testimonials, and any consumer feedback available online.

Using your findings

Now that you have this goldmine of information, what do you do with it? Here are a few ways to leverage your competitor analysis:

Fill the gaps: If you notice an area your competitors are overlooking, consider how you can meet this unaddressed customer need.

Differentiate your brand: Use your competitors’ weaknesses to your advantage by offering something they don’t.

Improve your products/services: Use industry benchmarks to elevate your offerings.

If you’d like to advertise on Blue Mountains Record, please email us at sales@bluemountainsrecord.com.au or call (02) 4722 2998.

Identify your competitors: Start with a simple Google search, look at social media, and consider asking your customers directly.

Analyse their offerings: What products

Adapt your marketing strategy: Learn from what others in your space are doing well and adjust your approach accordingly. Feeling overwhelmed? Competitor analysis is a powerful tool in your business arsenal, and you don’t have to go at it alone.

Notice of Aboriginal Consultation –Burra Park, Badgerys Creek

Baker Archaeology, on behalf of HB&B Property Pty Ltd, is preparing an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR) to inform planning for Lot 1 DP1287712 comprising 280 hectares of land fronting the norther n side of Elizabeth Drive between Badgerys and Cosgroves creeks at Badgerys Creek in Penrith Local Gover nment Area.

Development of an Employment and Logistics Precinct on part of the land south of the M12 corridor will be subject to a State Signi cant Development (SSD) Application. The SSD applicant or applicant for future Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit(s) (AHIP) will be HB&B Property of Ground oor, 55-59 Regent Street, Chippendale NSW 2008. The contact person is Mr Liam Donsworth, Development Manager, ldonsworth@hbbproperty.com.au

Aboriginal organisations or Aboriginal persons who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the cultural signi cance of Aboriginal objects in the area are invited to register an interest in consultation. The purpose of community consultation with Aboriginal people is to assist in: 1) assessing the Aboriginal heritage values of the area, 2) preparing an application for SSD or AHIP (should one be required) and 3) to assist the relevant NSW gover nment authorities to consider and determine the SSD or AHIP application. Aboriginal parties who have previously registered for this project will remain registered Aboriginal parties unless correspondence is received to the contrary Registrations should include the name of a contact person, address and other relevant contact details. The details of registered Aboriginal parties will be passed on to the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council and Heritage NSW unless a request to the contrary is made. Registrations of interest must be submitted in writing within 15 days of the date of this notice to:

Baker Archaeology PO Box 8663, Glenmore Park, NSW 2745 consult@bakerarchaeology.com.au

Note: Registering for consultation does not guarantee employment. WW53466

ABORIGINAL STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

GREAT WEST WALK CONNECT PROJECT (BLACKTOWN CITY COUNCIL)

AECOM, on behalf of Blacktown City Council, is seeking Aboriginal persons or organisations who wish to be consulted about an Aboriginal heritage assessment being prepared for the proposed construction of a walkway on land adjacent to Ropes Creek in Mt Druitt, wester n Sydney.

The purpose of community consultation with Aboriginal people is to assist the applicant prepare an application for an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit and to assist Heritage NSW in its consideration and determination of the application.

Interested Aboriginal persons or stakeholders who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the signi cance of Aboriginal object(s) and/or place(s) in the development area and wish to participate in the community consultation process are requested to register their interest in writing to:

Geordie Oakes

c/- AECOM Australia Pty Ltd

PO Box Q410, QVB Post Of ce, Sydney, NSW 1230

Ph: 0410 513 509

Email: Geordie.Oakes@aecom.com

Please be advised that if you register an interest in consultation, your details will be forwarded to Heritage NSW and the Local Aboriginal Land Council, unless you specify that you do not want your details released. The closing date for registration is 6 April 2024.

the final word

Penrith and Brisbane come together in Round 3 for the first time since last year’s Grand Final, and no doubt plenty of Broncos players are still recovering from the 17 minute nightmare starring Nathan Cleary last October.

While all the talk this week has been about a Grand Final re-match, the truth is the players don’t seem to see it that way – both are focused on this new campaign, and the Broncos players even refused to talk about the Grand Final at media opportunities this week.

It’s probably for the best. Winning or losing this match certainly doesn’t change the result of last October.

But there’s no question that deep down, media ban or not, the Broncos players will want revenge. They’ll want to prove something to a Penrith team that snuck in and stole the Premiership while they went to sleep.

It might not get them a Premiership ring, but it would certainly provide some satisfaction and some muchneeded confidence as the 2024 campaign rolls on.

After both sides suffered first-up losses to start the new season, Penrith and Brisbane recorded wins last weekend against fellow top contenders.

The Panthers were too good for an Eels side that would probably play better if they put as much effort into running and tackling as they did complaining to the referee. Penrith always looked on top but were still pretty rusty with the ball and through the middle in defence; perhaps to be expected given the short pre-season. It appears to be a carbon copy of their start to 2023.

Brisbane were reasonably dominant against Souths though coach Kevin Walters surely wasn’t happy

with how they let the Rabbitohs back into the game early in the second half, grabbing some momentum they certainly didn’t deserve. It’s those lapses that cost them the Grand Final last year and they’ll need to fix them if they’re to be a serious threat this season.

Brisbane have of course been dealt a significant blow, with halfback Adam Reynolds to miss this Thursday night showdown and Jock Madden to wear the number seven jumper. It’s a significant blow early in the season but Madden will certainly be seeking to grab the opportunity with both hands.

The Panthers aren’t without problems themselves, with a shoulder injury to James Fisher-Harris forcing changes to the starting pack that is so ferocious, with Lindsay Smith to start at prop. Thankfully, it appears he won’t be out for long.

Penrith did breath a sigh of relief on Sunday when the charge sheet revealed only a monetary fine to Jarome Luai over two incidents in last Friday night’s game, meaning he’s free to play against the Broncos. Luai is probably trying a little too hard at the moment as he saddles up for his ‘last ride’ but I have no doubt he’ll become critical to Penrith’s chances of a fourth straight Premiership as the campaign rolls on.

Brisbane’s obvious danger comes from their speed out wide and the dynamic Reece Walsh at the back. The fact Walsh and Deine Mariner already have three tries each this season shows where Brisbane’s points will largely come from this year.

Penrith meanwhile will continue to shift right where Izack Tago leads the competition in line breaks this season with six.

As much as this will be talked up as a close encounter, I’m predicting the Panthers to run away with this one and make a Premiership statement early in the season. I can’t see it being a close one.

Tip: Panthers by 18.

panther rumblings

FAMILY FOCUS AT PANTHERS

! The family club: Nobody can deny that part of Penrith’s success these past four years has been how a family culture has been built at the foot of the Mountains. Coach Ivan Cleary and his staff have gone overboard to ensure families feel part of the club, identifying some time ago that with so many players having kids, the Panthers needed to embrace family rather than have players with a split focus. Plenty of clubs will tell you they embrace family spirit but nobody does it quite like Penrith.

! May’s days numbered? There’s plenty of rumours doing the rounds that Taylan May could leave the club at the end of the season, contradicting other reports that a new deal was close. And just quietly, there’s the odd official at Penrith who wouldn’t be overly concerned if he did end up walking. May is unpredictable, and certainly walks to a different beat than most. He’s also a bloody good footballer. May is represented by Black Money Enterprises, and if he does end up leaving, I reckon there’s a bigger story emerging here about the space being created between Panthers and the agency. Watch this space.

! Spotted: Taylan May at Brookvale Oval watching brother Terrell go around for the Roosters.

! Fish hopeful of quick return: Powerhouse forward James Fisher-Harris (pictured below) breathed a sigh of relief this week when scans revealed the shoulder injury he suffered against the Eels last Friday night was not as bad as first thought. There’s no structural damage and there’s every chance he’ll be back in a couple of weeks.

! Committee to guide return: The Panthers are putting together a committee of members to hear the thoughts of fans regarding the move out of Penrith Stadium at the end of the year, the time away from the ground and the ultimate return to the new-look venue. An email went out to members last week seeking expressions of interest. The committee will meet fortnightly. The talk of the Western Grandstand last weekend was the desire for members to return to similar seating at the new venue. To be honest, there’s more trepidation and concern than there is excitement about the new stadium at present.

!

Luai free to play: There was certainly some eyebrows raised when Jarome Luai only

copped a Grade 1 Careless High Tackle charge for his hit on Bailey Simonsson last Friday night, especially given the Eels centre was forced out of the game. The low grading, and a similar low grading for a tripping offence, means Luai is free to play this weekend and hasn’t copped a suspension.

! Mielekamp back in footy: Former Panthers staffer Shaun Mielekamp, who went on to a hugely successful reign as CEO of the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, is back in rugby league. He’s taken on a role with the Wests Tigers as General Manager of Community, Foundation and Affairs.

! Mini reunion: Proving that team bonds never quite go away, check out this awesome photo of Daine Laurie, Mitch Kenny and Soni Luke with former teammate J’maine Hopgood post-game last Friday night.

! Spotted: ABC head caller Andrew Moore having a quick cigarette outside BlueBet Stadium before heading upstairs to call the Panthers v Eels blockbuster. I wonder if he ran in to former colleague Ray Hadley, who was calling the game for 2GB. The pair don’t get on.

! Media crossroads: Josh Mansour’s explosive revelations about his time at Souths on a podcast hosted by James Graham during the week, combined with the furore over Latrell Mitchell’s expletive-laden radio interview last Thursday, play into a situation where the coverage of rugby league finds itself at a crossroads. More and more players are appearing on podcasts hosted by former players and mates. The players feel this is where they can best express themselves, and even Nathan Cleary said recently he enjoys the podcast space more than the traditional media. It’s a situation the NRL and key media people are monitoring. The NRL and traditional media outlets have strong working relationships, even if there’s disputes at times. Club media managers do wonders at ironing out the kinks and handling issues. The podcast space is entirely different and often players appear on them without the knowledge of their clubs or the NRL. It’s an intriguing issue that will only

! Spotted: Panthers prop Matt Eisenhuth at the premiere of ‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ with his family last weekend.

! Spotted: The Pantherettes with Panthers mascot Claws enjoying a strong reception from the crowd at BlueBet Stadium last Friday night.

Brian To’o and Jarome Luai with their kids. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Reigning NRL Rookie of the Year Sunia Turuva is hopeful that his future with the Panthers will be finalised in the not-too-distant future.

The 21-year-old winger is currently off-contract at season’s end, with negotiations already underway with his management and the Penrith front office.

However, with several other key Panthers players also in the middle of sorting out their long-term futures, Turuva is now playing the waiting game.

“I’ll be honest… I haven’t heard much but obviously the plan is to stay here at Penrith – it’s home,” Turuva told Extra Time on Tuesday.

Mitch Kenny and Taylan May are also hoping to lock down their futures with the club in the coming weeks, with the latter reportedly being chased by three rival teams including the Storm, Dragons and Roosters.

Turuva said he and his off-contract teammates all want to stay at the Premiers beyond this year.

“Along with Kenny and Tiny (May), all three of us want to stay at home,” he said.

“We love this club, and I’m sure the other two would agree.

“The club has done a fair bit for us over the years and the plan is to stay, but I don’t know if we can because [Izack] Tago took all the money,” Turuva joked referring to the centre’s

whopping new deal last week.

Whatever happens, one thing is certain, Turuva will be doing everything he can this season to prove his worth in Ivan Cleary’s side.

Last Friday, in Penrith’s 26-18 victory over the Parramatta Eels,

Turuva scored a double and ran for 134 metres. This week, he’ll be looking to continue his strong start to the year when the Panthers battle the Broncos in a re-match of the 2023 NRL Grand Final.

Thursday’s match at BlueBet

Stadium is a part of the NRL’s Multicultural Round, with Penrith set to wear a special Pasifika jersey to celebrate the occasion.

Crafted by former Panther Frank Puletua, in collaboration 2003 premiership winner Joe Galuvao, the jersey symbolises a proud tribute to the rich heritage of Pasifika players, their families, and the unwavering support of Panthers fans.

“I remember when our manager Jason Wrigley bought up the jersey to us last year and we all bought into it straight away,” Turuva said.

“It’s always Panthers, Panthers, Panthers, so getting to represent Fiji for Panthers will be pretty special. I’ll be representing my family and a lot of people back home as well.”

Not a day goes by when Turuva doesn’t represent his family and heritage proudly, and nothing is about to change any time soon.

Turuva said his mission in 2024 is to avoid the dreaded second year syndrome and to do his best to remain fit and healthy despite a “frustrating” ongoing knee issue.

“It’s a pre-season injury that’s been carrying on the last couple of weeks,” he said.

“I don’t need to rest it, I can manage it through the week and it’s pretty much right by game day. Hopefully it comes good.”

Sunia Turuva is all smiles after a strong start to the season. Photo: Melinda Jane.

THREE D’S ARE KEY TO SUCCESS

lang on league

analysis player

There’s no doubt that last Friday the Panthers looked like a much-improved outfit from the previous week against Melbourne. You could see the machine, slowly clicking back into gear even though the motor was still spluttering a little.

After watching the game multiple times, I believe there are three things which need to be fine-tuned and running perfectly if Penrith are to achieve the level of success they’ve enjoyed over the last four years and really have a chance at an astonishing four-peat.

I call it the ‘Three D’s’. Defence, discipline and desire.

Let’s break it down, one word at a time.

We’ll start with ‘defence’. You don’t have to be a genius to know that the team with the best defence usually wins the premiership. Defence wins games, we all know that. Penrith’s defence over the last four years has been virtually impenetrable, however it did look a little brittle against the Storm and Eels at times.

The side let in three pretty soft tries in the first half against Parramatta and more concerning was where, right up the middle where the big boys play and it sent shockwaves through commentators and Panthers supporters alike.

The good news is the boys steadied the ship in the second half and kept the Eels scoreless. Letting in three tries is not the end of the world but Penrith will want to stop the rot before it sets in. The boys in the middle pride themselves on being a wall but they need to get that steel back into their defence. Letting in those three tries could be the best thing that happened to them.

Now let’s move onto ‘Discipline’. While I found myself regularly blaming the officials for not picking up on an Eels forward pass here

of the year

The Western Weekender Penrith Panthers Player of the Year competition runs throughout the season, with our four experts delivering a 3, 2, 1 rating for the best Panthers players from each Penrith game. The player with the most votes at the end of the season is crowned our Player of the Year.

LAST WEEK’S POINTS: PANTHERS VS EELS

or a missed ‘ruck infringement’ there, upon re-watching the game and if I’m going to be completely honest, the Panthers did lack a bit of discipline in their play at times during the match.

In this game Jarome Luai did sail close to wind on a couple of occasions and was quite frankly, lucky not to serve any time on the sidelines.

Again, those little one-percenters when it comes to getting back onside and no hands in the ruck etc will disappear from their game as the weeks roll on and the side finds its rhythm.

The final ‘D’ is ‘desire’. You can’t win a game of ping-pong let alone a game of rugby league if you don’t have that. I’m happy to say that in

my humble opinion, this is not an area the team needs to worry about.

You could be mistaken for thinking that after four consecutive Grand Finals and three Premierships in a row, the side may be finding it hard to motivate themselves and retain that same hunger, that same desire to win.

Not this mob. They ooze intensity and hunger, it’s in the way they walk, talk and play the game.

There’s a quote in sports that I believe sums up the Panthers attitude and culture perfectly. “Winning isn’t everything but the desire to win is.”

And these blokes have got that in spades.

The Panthers celebrate a try against the Eels. Photo: Megan Dunn.

with Peter Lang

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS

PANTHERS RAIDERS RABBITOHS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS RAIDERS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS DRAGONS SHARKS EELS STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS DRAGONS SHARKS EELS KNIGHTS

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS KNIGHTS

PANTHERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS KNIGHTS

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS RAIDERS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS

TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS RAIDERS RABBITOHS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STORM

PANTHERS RAIDERS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS RAIDERS RABBITOHS TITANS DRAGONS TIGERS SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STORM

PANTHERS RAIDERS

PANTHERS WARRIORS

PANTHERS RAIDERS

PANTHERS

RABBITOHS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STORM

RABBITOHS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STROM

ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS EELS STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS

ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS PARRA KNIGHTS

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS MANLY STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS

SEA EAGLES STORM

PANTHERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS COWBOYS SHARKS

SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS

ROOSTERS TITANS COWBOYS SHARKS SEA EAGLES STORM

MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND MORE – PENRITH’S LEADING ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Though truly Australian musicals like ‘Muriel’s Wedding’, ‘Priscilla’ and ‘The Sapphires’ are few and far between, a new production is about to be added to the list, and it’s heading to Sydney Coliseum.

Claire Warrilow grew up singing and dancing, training at the Victorian College of the Arts before transitioning away from theatre to do voiceover work and audio books, among other things.

But, when she heard about ‘The Sunshine Club’, Warrilow said she immediately felt drawn back, inspired to tell a story of overcoming adversity.

“I think as a young person, we see a lot of the change come through Australian society; rapid changes for the better in terms of how we treat our First Nations people, and inclusion and things like that,” she said.

“To be taken to a time not so long ago, the late 1940s, and to learn about that recent history and the returning soldiers, how differently the white soldiers coming back from the war were treated compared to the black soldiers.”

Set in 1946, ‘The Sunshine Club’ tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who comes home from World War II and starts The Sunshine Club in hopes of creating a place where people can dance together –and where he can sweep Warrilow’s character Rose off her feet.

‘The Sunshine Club’ is written and directed by proud Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch, and features 28 songs composed by the esteemed John Rodgers, all to be sung in an Australian accent – a fun point of difference for Warrilow in returning to the field.

“Most musicals are American or British, and you’re always auditioning in American accents or working on your British accents, so this is just so fun, to sing in our own accents!” she said.

NEW AUSSIE MUSICAL

Warrilow added that working on the show has been a learning curve in many other ways, being one of only a few white members of the cast.

“I feel really privileged to have been welcomed into my cast of First Nations actors who are so experienced, and have really diverse backgrounds themselves,” she said.

“To be brought into that and to learn parts of language and inside jokes or parts of history and community that I’m not normally privy to living in urban Melbourne, and to be really welcomed in has certainly been my experience, and absolutely our audiences feel that as well.”

However, she said she’s proud to be able to tell such an important and seldom known story.

“I know about this country, I know the way we communicate, the way we sing, so all of that is very familiar, but really the specificity of this story about these first mixed-race dance clubs was just a part of our culture that I really

didn’t know, and it’s a really lovely part of our culture,” Warrilow said.

Having toured the show across the country for the past year, Warrilow said that reception couldn’t have been better, with audiences expressing their love for the warm experience of seeing ‘The Sunshine Club’.

In one of their biggest runs of the tour, ‘The Sunshine Club’ will be hitting the stage at West HQ’s Sydney Coliseum for eight shows next month.

“We’re looking forward to really settling in, getting to know the neighbourhood, having lots of audiences in at that theatre,” she said.

“I know everyone says this, but you really will laugh and cry. It’s one of those shows that will have you chuckling along, grooving along with the music, and then really get those emotions going as well.”

‘The Sunshine Club’ will be on at Sydney Coliseum from Thursday, April 11 to Saturday, April 20. For more information or to book, visit sydneycoliseum.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

Free assistance for seniors

Next Wednesday, March 27, head down to Penrith Bowling Club at 1pm for the free Professional Services & Lifestyle Expo as part of Penrith Seniors Festival. Explore a wealth of valuable resources, services, and opportunities aimed at enhancing your quality of life and wellbeing, and indulge in a catered lunch while connecting with others. Visit eventbrite.com.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

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

Penrith Markets

Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Penrith Producers is on the move

Penrith Producers is officially back, extending the offering to our local makers, creators, artists and food businesses and supporting our community to shop local. The first event in the series will be held on Sunday, March 24 from 9am to 2pm. A new location will be trialled for this event utilising the Nepean River at Tench Reserve. Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au.

Probus Club of Nepean

First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am. Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866 for more information.

Penrith Lions Club

Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542.

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.

Blue Mountains Amateur Radio Club Club meets at 7pm on the first Friday of the month at the old scout hall at 4 Moore St, Glenbrook. Call Ron on 0408 483 269 for more information.

Red Cross Penrith

Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Easter fun in St Marys

Get into the spirit of Easter early with St Marys Town Centre's Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Fun Day, on this Saturday, March 23. Come dressed up and enter the Easter Hat Parade competition, take part in the Easter Egg Hunt, and enjoy loads of magical family fun! Visit the St Marys Town Centre Facebook page for more information.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

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

Nepean Food Services

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

Free food shop

9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42

Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

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

Arms of Australia Inn

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

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

Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.

Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

PREVIEW PREVIEW

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

1 hour, 55 minutes

‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ sees the Spengler family and the original team back at the iconic New York City firehouse, unveiling a cutting-edge lab to kick ghost-busting up a notch.

However, when an ancient artefact triggers an icy apocalypse, old and new Ghostbusters must stand together to save their beloved city and the world from a chilling fate.

Kung Fu Panda 4

1 hour, 34 minutes

In the fourth instalment of the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ franchise, join Po on a thrilling journey as he dives into the wonders of ancient China! Po must train a new warrior when he's chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. However, when a

powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his Staff of Wisdom, he suddenly realises he's going to need some help.

Teaming up with a quick-witted corsac fox, Po soon discovers that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places.

www.hoyts.com.au

Nathan Taylor

TV NEWS

Ê Gordon Ramsay will make his Australia television series debut when he fronts Channel Nine’s new food competition series alongside Boost Juice mogul Janine Allis. Based on a US format, ‘Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars’ sees Ramsay and Allis hear pitches for food and beverage businesses, two of whom will go on to win $250,000 towards their dream business. While Ramsay has appeared on ‘MasterChef Australia’ over the years, this is the first time he’ll be headlining his own series Down Under. I’ve watched the first couple of episodes already and it’s very enjoyable, but it reminds me of 'The Apprentice' meets ‘Shark Tank’, which is probably why I like it so much! Catch it from next Tuesday, March 26 at 7.30pm.

Ê 10 has locked in a premiere date for the new-look ‘MasterChef Australia’. This year, ‘MasterChef Australia’ will usher in a new era, with international superstars, 22 incredible home-cooks, and friends old and new joining the family. Andy Allen will carry on Jock Zonfrillo’s legacy alongside three

MARCH 26 7.30PM FOOD STARS, CHANNEL NINE

10

new judges: ‘MasterChef’ alumnus Poh Ling Yeow, food critic and journalist Sofia Levin, and multi–Michelin Star award-winning chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli. It’s still a little while away, but put down Monday, April 22 in your diary.

Ê Following a recent heart operation in London, Miriam Margolyes is worried about what the future holds. So, ignoring everyone’s advice to “slow down”, she returns to Australia for a new series, ‘Miriam Margolyes: Impossibly Australian’. Across the three-part series, she embarks on a personal mission, travelling to Perth, Byron Bay and Broken Hill, meeting communities that are facing change and who can teach her how to adapt to whatever the future holds. ‘Miriam Margolyes: Impossibly Australian’ premieres at 8pm on Tuesday, April 9 on the ABC.

Ê New ABC comedy series ‘White Fever’ will premiere on Wednesday, April 10 at 9pm. Jane (Ra Chapman) is a cocky Korean-Australian adoptee with a love of hairy

white guys – the hairier the better. When her friends call her out for having a white man fetish, she sets out to try and reprogram her libido, reignites a connection with her childhood friend Yu Chang (Chris Pang) and stumbles into the process of finding out where she belongs and who with.

Ê Casting is already underway for the next season of ‘Australian Survivor’. Following this week’s season finale, producers are on the hunt for a new batch of castaways. Producers are seeking people of all backgrounds and locations around Australia. You need to be physically and mentally strong enough to survive in tough conditions. You must be able to engage with others, be confident and be comfortable living in close quarters with strangers. Another requirement is being able to swim! To apply, visit https://eu.castitreach. com/ag/esgau/australiansurvivor10/welcome.html. Should I do it? Tweet me!

Ê Season five of ‘The Kardashians’ drops weekly from Thursday, May 23 on Disney+.

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

Planet America 10:30 That Pacific Sports

Show 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC

News 1:00 Silent Witness (M v) 2:00 House

Of Gods (M l) 2:55 The Cook And The Chef

Friday 22 March

3:25 Tenable 4:10 Antiques Roadshow 5:10

Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30

Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30

Gardening Australia 8:30 Happy Valley (M l)

9:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 10:05 The Weekly With

Charlie Pickering (PG) 10:35 QI (M l)

3:00 Imagine Rail Journeys (PG) 3:30

Harry’s Practice 4:00

RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30

Better Homes And Gardens

5:30 Escape To The Country

6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard (PG)

5:00 Spooky Files 5:25

Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir (PG) 5:55 Still So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00

Horrible Histories 7:40 Kung Fu

Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness 8:00 Transformers: EarthSpark (PG)

TV Guide: March 22–28

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG)

11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “The Good Nanny” (AKA ‘The Perfect Parents’ And ‘Nanny’s Nightmare’) (M v) (’17) Stars: Briana Evigan 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: “Maid In Manhattan” (PG) (’02) Stars: Jennifer Lopez 10:45 Movie: “Argo” (M l,v) (’12)

3:30 Cities Of The Underworld (PG) 4:30

Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown 7:20 AFL: Round 2: Sydney v Essendon *Live*

1:00 ABC News Day 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00

Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00

ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC

National News 7:30 ABC

Evening News 8:00 Planet America: Fireside Chat

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “The Story Of Love” (PG) (’22) Stars: Brittany Bristow 2:00

Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00

NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Roosters v Rabbitohs *Live* From Allianz Stadium

10:45 Movie: “The Infiltrator” (MA15+) (’16)

Stars: Bryan Cranston 1:10 Tipping Point (PG) 2:05 Pointless (PG)

12:00

9-1-1 (PG) 2:55 Jabba’s School Holiday Movie Specials (PG)

3:30 Britain’s Got Talent (PG)

6:00 Movie: “The Karate Kid II” (PG) (’86) Stars: Danny Kamekona 8:30 Movie: “Atomic Blonde” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Charlize Theron

4:25 Circle Square 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1” (M) (’11)

Saturday 23 March

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast

9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest

Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30

Death In Paradise (PG) 1:30 Life After Life

2:35 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG)

3:05 Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 3:55

Universe With Brian Cox 4:55 Better Date

12:00 Escape To The Country 1:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 2:00

Escape To The Country 5:00

Seven’s Horse Racing *Live*

6:00 Heathrow (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30

Escape To The Country 11:30

The Yorkshire Vet In Autumn

5:20 Total Drama Island (PG) 5:45 School Of Rock (PG) 6:05 The Next Step 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Mythbusters 7:30

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 7:45 Kung Fu Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness

Sunday 24 March

3:00 NDRC Top Fuel Championship Highlights 4:00 Supercar Customiser 5:00 Storage Wars Miami (M) 5:30 Storage Wars (M) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Oblivion” (M l,v) (’13)

3:00 ABC News 3:30 The Breakfast Couch 4:00 ABC News 4:30 Back Roads 5:00 ABC News 5:30 ABC News: Tasmania Votes 6:00 Tasmania Votes: Election Night *Live* 7:30 Tasmania Votes: Election Results *Live*

4:00 Toi Time 4:30

Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea 5:00

Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40

Volcanic Odysseys 7:30 Eddies Lil’ Homies 7:50 Movie: “Satellite Boy” (PG) (’12) Stars: David Gulpilil

5:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 5:30 Palisa Anderson’s Water Heart Food 6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Street Food Asia 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein: From Venice To Istanbul

8:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 8:30 Neighbours (PG) 9:00 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 9:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG)

10:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 10:30 Judge

Judy (PG) 11:00 Motorsport: Albert Park All Access 12:00 Motorsport: Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix *Live* 5:00 10 News

First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Ready Steady Cook 8:30

The Graham Norton Show (M) 10:50

Motorsport: Albert Park All Access

10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30

In The Dark (PG) 1:30 NCIS (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 4:30 Motorsport: Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix *Live*

5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M)

4:10 PBS Newshour

5:10 Wine Lovers Guide To Australia 5:50 Alone - The Beast (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats

Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Hoarders (M) 9:25 Sex Tape Finland (M) (In Finnish)

4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30

Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A

Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Space Invaders (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard” (MA15+) (’21) Stars: Ryan Reynolds 10:45 Movie: “Sleepless” (MA15+) (’17)

1:15 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 3:50 Modern Family (PG) 4:15 The Goldbergs (PG) 4:40 Movie: “The Mitchells Vs The Machines” (PG) (’21) Stars: Abbi Jacobson 7:00 Movie: “Babe: Pig In The City” (G) (’98) Stars: James Cromwell

4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City

5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Karma’s World

7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00

QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (M l,s) 9:15 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (PG)

4:20 True North Calling (PG) 4:50 On Country Kitchen 5:25 Cottagers And Indians (PG) 6:15 NITV News Update 6:30 Tradition On A Plate 7:00 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Idris Elba’s Fight School (M l) 9:05 Movie: “Piranha” (M n,v) (’78)

5:30 Khanh Ong’s Wild Food 6:30 Evolving Vegan 7:30 Jimmy Doherty’s New Zealand Escape 8:30 Rick Stein’s Food Heroes

9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 The Wine Show 11:30 The Cook And The Chef

5:00 Worldwatch 9:15 Singfest - The Literacy Of Music 10:10 Kew Gardens 11:00 Food Markets - In The Belly Of (PG) (In English/ Greek) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00

Mastermind 3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Worlds Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Good Ship Murder (PG) 8:25 Treasures Of Gibraltar (PG)

3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00

Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 7:30 Basketball: NBL: Championship Series: Tasmania JackJumpers v Melbourne United *Live*

3:00 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 4:30

The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 Movie: “Hop” (G) (’11) Stars: James Marsden 7:30 Movie: “The Hobbit The Desolation Of Smaug” (PG) (’13) Stars: Peter Jackson

1:00 Unsellable Houses 2:00 My Lottery Dream Home 3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Barnwood Builders 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Rehab Addict Lake House Rescue

3:00 Feel Good Road Trips (PG) 3:30 RSPCA

Animal Rescue 4:00

The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 5:00 I

Escaped To The Country 6:00

Imagine Rail Journeys (PG) 6:30 Kath & Kim 7:05 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:35 Vera (PG)

3:00 Mark Berg’s Fishing Addiction (PG) 4:00 Disasters At Sea (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars New York (PG) 6:00 Border Security USA (PG) 6:30 AFL: Round 2: West Coast v GWS *Live* 9:30

Movie: “Logan” (MA15+) (’17)

Stars: Hugh Jackman

11:50 Holey Moley Australia (PG) 1:15

Dancing With The Stars (PG) 2:55 The Goldbergs (PG)

3:30 The Amazing Race (PG)

4:30 Australian Idol (PG) 5:30

Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M)

3:05 Cottagers And Indians (PG) 4:00 Tina - One

8:00 Ready Steady Cook 9:00 Motorsport:

Albert Park All Access 10:00 Motorsport:

Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix *Live* From Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit 5:30 10 News

First 6:30 Ready Steady Cook 7:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 8:40 The Dog House UK (PG) 9:40 Ambulance Australia (PG) 10:40 Ambulance UK (M l) 11:55 So Help Me Todd (PG) 12:50 FBI: International (M v) 1:30 Home Shopping 5:00 Religious Programs

11:30 Luxury Escapes 12:00 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 1:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures (PG) 2:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 What’s Up Down Under 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (M) 8:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 NCIS: Los Angeles (M)

4:10 PBS Newshour 5:10 TVNZ 1News At Six 5:50 The Food That Built The World (PG) 7:30

Motorsport: Australian Superbikes: Round 2 *Live*

From Sydney Motorsport Park 10:00 Adam Eats The 80s 10:40 Better Things (M s)

3:00 Antiques Roadshow 3:30 Movie: “The Great St Trinians Train Robbery” (G) (’66) Stars: Frankie Howerd 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 David

Attenborough’s Dynasties II (PG)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:15 Love Your Home And Garden (PG) 10:10 Vintage Voltage 11:00

Urban Conversion (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Gymnastics: Trampoline World Cup 3:10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 5:00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers (PG) 5:35 The American Fuhrer (PG) (In English/ German) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road (PG) 8:30 Royal Crisis - Countdown To Abdication (PG) 9:30 From Paris To Rome (PG)

11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 12:30 Friends (PG) 1:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:00 Becker (PG) 4:00 Frasier (PG) 5:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Friends (PG)

3:05 Movie: “Step Up 2: The Streets” (PG) (’08) Stars: Robert Hoffman 5:05 Kenan (PG) 5:35 Movie: “Alvin And The Chipmunks” (G) (’07) Stars: Jason Lee 7:30

Movie: “Journey To The Centre Of The Earth” (PG) (’08) Stars: Josh Hutcherson

1:30 Houses With History 2:30 Renovation Impossible 3:30 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 4:30 Rehab Addict Lake House Rescue 5:30 Dream Homes Revealed 6:30 Holiday Homes In The Sun 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

2:50 Movie: “The Thomas Crown Affair” (PG) (’68) Stars: Pierce Brosnan 5:00 Rugby Union: Super W: Force v Reds *Live* From HBF Park 7:00 Rugby Union: Rugby Pacific: Force v Reds *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post Match

Tonight With David Muir 5:30 PBS Washington Week With

(PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering

3:00 Abby’s (PG) 5:30

Movie: “The Spy Next Door” (PG) (’10) Stars: Jackie Chan 7:30 Movie: “Ocean’s Twelve” (M l) (’04) Stars: Brad Pitt 10:00 Movie: “Heat” (M l,v) (’95) Stars: Al Pacino 1:15 Resident Alien (M) 3:00 Teen Titans Go! (PG)

Classifications:

(PG)

1:50 Movie: “Duel In The Jungle” (PG) (’54)

Stars: Jeanne Crain 4:00 Movie: “The Horse Soldiers” (G) (’59) Stars: John Wayne 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Dead Pool” (M) (’07) 10:30 Movie: “Cold Sweat” (M d,s) (’70)

Monday 25 March

4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 8:30 Foyle’s War (M v) 10:45 Railroad Australia (PG)

5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Opal Hunters (PG) 8:30 Adventure Gold Diggers

5:55 Still So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch!

7:00 Horrible Histories 7:40 Kung Fu Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness (PG) 8:00 Hotel Transylvania

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 ABC Evening News 8:00 ABC News Tonight

Tuesday 26 March

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Call The Midwife (PG) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:25 Tenable 4:15

4:00

Bargain Hunt 7:30 Call The Midwife (PG)

5:55 Still So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories

7:40 Kung Fu Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness (PG) 8:00

Hotel Transylvania (PG)

5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Truckers (PG) 9:30 Ice Road Truckers (PG)

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 ABC Evening News 8:00 ABC News Tonight

12:00

(PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Finding Your Roots (PG)

3:30 Australian Idol (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 7:30

Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU

4:25 Circle Square 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks

5:30 APTN National News 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update

6:40 Volcanic Odysseys 7:35 First Australians (PG) 8:45 Karla Grant Presents (PG)

6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Street Food Asia 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Nadiya’s Party Feast 8:40 Nigellissima

12:30 In The Dark (M)

1:30 NCIS (M v) 2:30

Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M)

3:45 ABC America This Week 4:40 PBS News Weekend 5:10 TVNZ 1News At Six 5:50 Alone: The Beast (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update

4:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG)

6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00

The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

6:00 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 7:00

The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Three Amigos” (PG) (’86) Stars: Steve Martin

4:00 Barnwood Builders 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 8:30 Help! I Wrecked My House

3:20 Movie: “The Siege Of Pinchgut” (PG) (’59) Stars: Aldo Ray 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Death In Paradise (M)

4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 First Dates Australia (PG) 7:35 First Dates UK (M s) 8:40 Movie: “New In Town” (PG) (’09) Stars: Renée Zellweger

4:25 Circle Square 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks

Wednesday 27 March

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch 2:00 Parliament

12:00 Movie: “Unwritten Obsession” (M) (’17) Stars: Haley Webb 2:00 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 The 1% Club UK (PG) 8:30 The Front Bar (M) 9:30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera (M) 10:30 The Latest Seven News 11:00 Talking Footy (M)

4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat (PG)

5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG) 8:30 The Force - Behind The Line (PG)

4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 First Dates Australia (PG)

5:00 Our Stories 5:30 Indian Country 6:00 Bamay 6:40 NITV News Update 6:50 Volcanic Odysseys (PG) 7:40 Great Lakes Wild

6:00 Luke Nguyen’s India 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rachel Khoo’s Simple Pleasures 8:00 Selena + Chef

3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 7:00 Football: AFC World Cup Qualifiers: Socceroos v Lebanon *Live* 10:15 FBI (M)

5:10 TVNZ 1News At Six 5:50 Alone - The Beast (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

6:00 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 7:00

The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Spy Who Dumped Me” (M) (’18) Stars: Justin Theroux

12:00 Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars (PG)

1:45 Explore 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News

Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars (PG) 9:00 Under Investigation (PG) 10:00 NINE News Late 11:00 See No Evil (M v)

12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00

Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 TBA 3:00

Good Chef Bad Chef 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News

4:00 Barnwood Builders 5:00 Flip Or Flop 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Beyond The Farm: Men At Work

3:35 Movie: “Mr Denning Drives North” (PG) (’51) Stars: John Mills 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (M)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Dateline (M) 2:30 Insight (M) 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Worlds Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30

Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You (M)

SIMPLICITY LEADS THE WAY IN BATHROOM DESIGN

Bathrooms are a significant investment, so when building or renovating your bathroom, it is important to not only keep in mind design aesthetics, but functionality and performance to ensure long-term benefits to your home.

Starting with the correct materials at the foundation level is critical to mitigating expensive repairs later on.

Once the foundation is solid, you can then consider the more detailed elements like touch and texture, pending your individual needs, budget and personal style.

Whether you’re looking to transform your bathroom into a tranquil oasis or need to create a more practical space to serve your family’s evolving needs, the planning stage of building or renovating is the ideal time to think about particular performance requirements.

“Investing in

high-quality materials from the beginning ensures a longer lasting bathroom,” said Lauren Ford, General Manager, Gyprock Marketing.

“By creating a strong performance enhanced base, you can produce a durable and long-lasting space that can easily be updated with subtle details and features that make a world of difference.”

It’s hard to know what’s happening behind your walls once they are tiled, so choosing a moisture-resistant wall and ceiling plasterboard such as Gyprock Aquachek will promote a healthy and comfortable space offering a durable and long-lasting framework. Designed specifically for use in wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries, toilets and kitchens, Gyprock Aquachek plasterboard is specially treated to ensure the core, face and back equally moisture

and humidity-resistant, offering a level base for tile or paint finishes.

“With its low water absorption characteristics, Aquachek provides a performance-enhanced base preventing mould build up on walls, linings and ceilings, meaning it will last for years,” Ford said.

While the look and feel are criti-

“YOU CAN PRODUCE A DURABLE AND LONG-STANDING SPACE”

cal to a successful new bathroom design, considering its purpose and how to make the most of the available space is usually the first place to start. Whether it’s a family bathroom, ensuite or

guest bathroom, will make a big impact on these decisions.

When it comes to style and design, 2024 will be a time of simplicity and naturalness. The focus for the bathroom, more than any other room in the home, will incorporate the key trends of wellness and self-care, with an emphasis on the importance of creating harmony. Choosing less and focusing on more quality items that last and provide comfort above all else will be the priority.

Incorporating gentle curves into your bathroom design, like a curved vanity, bathtub, or a stylish architectural arch will bring a unique design feature that adds visual interest and softness, making the space feel inviting and relaxed. Selecting colours and fixtures in soft and neutral shades will add warmth to further enhance a soothing ambience and sense of calm. Size does play a part in the design for a bathroom, however, regardless of the space, trends for 2024 dictate functionality as top of the list. In the bathroom, where space is king, niches are a smart way to create practical and unobtrusive storage solutions. Consider integrating built-in niches within shower areas or bathroom walls, to create practical spaces for toiletries and reducing clutter.

Styling your bathroom finishes the picture. Adding hand wash, hand cream, soaps, candles and diffusers, small ornaments, towels and plants reflect your personal style.

Whatever style you choose, and however you choose to style your bathroom, make sure you start with the right building materials that will help you create your very own slice of heaven.

For more information, visit www.gyprock.com.au.

Western Property

What is so great about this property?

This property offers a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to secure one of the largest privately owned parcels in the Mulgoa Valley. It boasts breathtaking natural beauty, including panoramic views stretching from the Central Coast to Cronulla, a grand country homestead with

luxurious features, versatile land with multiple paddocks and horse stables, and custom built recycled brick barn with loft.

Who does this property suit?

This property suits individuals or families seeking tranquility, privacy, and natural beauty within close proximity to urban amenities. It is ideal for those

looking for a permanent residence to enjoy year-round serenity or as a perfect weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Additionally, equestrians or those interested in rural pursuits would find the land and facilities suitable for their needs.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

The property is situated in leafy Mulgoa, one of Penrith’s best kept secrets. Offering a serene and secluded environment away from the urban hustle and known for its picturesque rural landscape, Mulgoa provides a peaceful lifestyle while still being conveniently located within approximately an hour’s drive to the eastern beaches of Sydney.

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Sale: Just Listed

Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE P OWELL

M: 0428 934 618

E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

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Sale : Just Listed

Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE P OWELL

M: 0428 934 618

• 3 generous sized BRs, all tted with BIs; master with aircon, ceiling fan with oversized WIR that can be utilised as nursery room or study nook • Multiple living rooms

• Renovated kitchen with 900mm gas cooktop, stainless-steel appliances, tiled marble splashback with lighting soft close draws with ample storage • Moder n bathroom with separate toilet • Huge under cover esco • Secure LUG

Sale: Just Listed

Inspection: Call Agent

• Concreted driveway

LITS A MELETI

M: 0466 969 164

E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

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This is your last oppor tunit y to secure a luxur y apar tment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the hear t of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apar tment features ample floor space, sophisticated styl e and the finest finishes

Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction , the residence is completed to a high standard with:

• Miele oven, gas cook top, rangehood, buil t-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedroom s

• Ground floor entr y, two levels of secure parking and a communal roof top with barbeque faciliti es

ORAN P ARK

The Experts

Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s Swim School 4730 8900

SUMMER’S OVER, BUT TIME IN THE WATER IS NOT!

Every year the end of summer comes up far too quickly and I find myself urging everyone to just keep swimming – all year round! Why? Because...

You can swim all year round: As much as I love being outside in the summer enjoying the fresh air, sunshine, and water, there is nothing better than a swim in a heated pool followed by a hot shower in the cooler months to refresh and energise you during the day time, or relax you ready for sleep in the evening.

Swimming is low impact: Whether your discomfort is from injury or ageing, your muscles and joints are cushioned in the water, supported but also met with resistance as you swim or work out. When injured, modified swimming is the perfect way to burn calories and stay toned.

Swimming is an excellent calorie burner: Just 30 minutes of exercise in water is the equivalent of approximately an hour’s non-water exercise, and you even

continue to burn calories even when you’ve gotten out of the pool!

Swimming makes us happy: Swimming can help improve mental wellbeing, reducing tension, anxiety, depression, anger, confusion and increasing energy levels. Due to the use of large muscle groups and the endorphins released, swimming always makes me feel better,

Sphysically and mentally. But overall – swimming is for everyone: From birth to the very end, swimming is an activity that enhances a person’s life at every age and stage. Once you know how to swim, it’s a skill you can use for a lifetime, in so many settings. You can try snorkelling, playing water polo, participating in water aerobics, swimming in a triathlon, or scuba diving – and

o, you’re contending with sciatica – that nerve-related agony coursing from your back down into your leg, impeding your daily life. Today we’ll explore some real life strategies to help you live life but also get better.

Find the balance of relative rest

If your symptoms aren’t overwhelming, opting for complete rest isn’t the remedy. Inactivity can often exacerbate symptoms, especially if the sciatica is related to back pain. Conversely, overexertion can strain your body further. Tasks like extensive housework or prolonged sitting can aggravate symptoms. Break them into manageable blocks to stave off exacerbation. To better do this, we need to understand what your body’s current tolerance level is. It’s about striking a balance between life’s demands and avoiding symptom aggravation.

If you work a 9-5 desk job, take note of when

demonstrate a level of comfort and enjoyment in the water that inspires your family, including your children, to do the same.

Swimming brings families together: Whether its bonding with your baby during swimming lessons, enjoying the beach or poolside at home or on holidays, or supporting your competitive swimmer at meets, swimming time is often family time (especially as electronic devices and water don’t mix!)

Most importantly... swimming can save your life. That’s it. The bottom line. Improved water safety is the number one reason why I love to swim, will continue to swim regularly, all year round, and encourage others to do so too! Interested in our school holiday intensive swim lessons and Paddles Super Swim camps to build your child’s swimming and water safety skills and confidence? Check out our website for dates and details. Until next time, stay safer! Love to Swim, Swim for Safety, Swim for Life!

your symptoms come on and integrate movements beforehand in the future.

Similarly, consider household chores. Cleaning three rooms might be too taxing for some, so break it down into one-room segments and intersperse with relative rest or symptom-alleviating activities.

Embracing movement: A gradual approach Gradual movement is pivotal. Observe which movements or activities alleviate your symptoms.

For instance, some individuals find relief from backward bending for sciatica caused by a disc bulge (not always). Short walks may also provide relief, but exercise caution not to overexert.

Too often people will come in completely scared to move, even though they mention movement helps relieve their sciatica. This fear often is detrimental to the health outcome. If you’re unsure, perform small blocks of that movement

and build on your duration each day. This approach can give you much more relief from symptoms than simply avoiding things altogether.

In essence, managing sciatica involves delicately balancing rest and movement, guided by professional insight. By taking proactive steps and seeking expert guidance, you can embark on a journey towards relief and recovery.

If you’re unsure on how to tackle sciatica, please consult a health professional!

Disclaimer: The above information offers general advice and should not replace medical advice. If uncertain, please seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

JULIE SHELDRAKE

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

One pale girl’s advice: The best make-up tips and tricks!

If you’re someone who’s struggled to locate a foundation shade light enough for you in stores, finds your skin turns increasingly more orange over the course of the day, or buys trending products just to find out they don’t suit you at all – join the club!

Though makeup is for everybody, and the beauty of it is that you’re able to experiment to your heart’s desire, it’s no secret that products just don’t look the

same on fair skin as they do on those who fall into the light-medium category.

If you’ve been struggling to build a kit, or to create a makeup look which you feel highlights your natural skin tone rather than hiding it, here are my top tips – from one pale girl to another.

Incorporate SPF where you can

Whether you’re heading out for a day outside, or just having the sun on you in the car, it’s important to remember that UV rays are your enemy.

For anyone, but particularly those with fairer skin, it’s so important to incorporate SPF into your makeup routine, whether that’s by using sunscreen before foundation, mixing it in, or using products that include it for you.

Match your base products as best as possible

With so few fair foundation options available to purchase in stores, especially on the more affordable end of the spectrum, I completely understand the

urge to go a shade deeper. However, finding a foundation that matches perfectly to both your skin tone and undertone truly changes the game.

Some of my personal favourites include the tarte Shape Tape Cloud Foundation in ‘12N Fair Neutral’, and the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation in ‘120 – Light with neutral undertones’.

The same goes for powders – aim for something truly colourless like the RCMA No Colour Powder, or something which comes in plenty of shades so you can find the one that matches you best, like the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder.

Use a light hand

Though on fair skin you can make almost any colour work, it’s important to think twice before going straight in with blush or bronzer, especially when there are so many hyper-pigmented products going around at the moment!

To sheer out a product and make sure you’re not stuck looking like a clown,

use a less densely packed brush to apply, or disperse the product on the back of your hand first before building it up on the face.

Brown is the new black

Though I do love a big lash or black eyeliner look, I will admit that it can look a little harsh on me for day to day.

If you feel the same way, opt for a brown mascara and eyeliner for a softer look that still emphasises your eye shape.

Try before you buy

If you have pale skin, not every trending product on TikTok is going to suit you – and that’s okay!

If there is something you’ve been dying to purchase, head instore first to get a tester if you can, and leave it on your skin long enough to see if the colour shifts through the day.

If you decide that it won’t work for you, you can then see if there’s a lighter shade that does, saving you time and disappointment.

The Experts

THE IMPORTANCE OF DESEXING YOUR DOG

Desexing your female dog isn’t just a matter of responsible pet ownership; it’s a crucial step in ensuring their wellbeing and preventing numerous potential health issues. While some may hesitate due to misconceptions or concerns, the benefits far outweigh any perceived drawbacks.

Most importantly, desexing eliminates the risk of unwanted pregnancies. The consequences of unplanned litters extend beyond mere inconvenience; they contribute to the overpopulation crisis, leading to countless homeless animals facing euthanasia in shelters. By desexing your female dog, you are actively participating in the solution to this heartbreaking problem.

Additionally, desexing prevents a host of medical conditions that can affect entire female dogs.

One such ailment is pyometra, a potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus. Without prompt treatment, pyometra

can result in severe illness or death. Desexing eliminates this risk entirely, sparing your pet unnecessary suffering and you the potential financial burden

ations that cause this phenomenon, ensuring your pet’s psychological wellbeing remains intact.

Did you know that desexing significantly reduces the risk of

associated with emergency procedures.

False pregnancy, though less dire, can still be distressing for both dog and owner. Desexing mitigates the hormonal fluctu-

mammary cancer, particularly if performed before the first heat cycle? Mammary tumours are one of the most common malignancies in female dogs, and prevention is key in safeguarding

your pet’s health and longevity.

While some may voice concerns about potential drawbacks, such as changes in temperament or weight gain, research consistently disproves these concepts. Desexing does not alter a dog’s fundamental personality or intelligence. Weight gain, if it occurs, is typically due to overfeeding and can be managed through proper diet and exercise.

As for timing, desexing around six months of age, before the first heat cycle, is ideal. Not only does this prevent the onset of reproductive-related health issues, but it also aligns with requirements for pet registration, offering potential cost savings.

By taking the proactive step to desex your dog, you’re not only enhancing your dog’s quality of life but also contributing to the greater welfare of animals everywhere.

To book your female dog in for desexing, phone the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

The good news on interest rates for mortgage holders is the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has kept them on hold since raising the official cash rate to 4.35 per cent in November last year.

The RBA doesn’t meet again to deliberate on interest rates until May 6-7, so borrowers will have had at least six months reprieve from rate hikes.

The feeling among economists is the RBA’s next rate movement will be down, although not until the second half of the year.

But RBA Governor Michele Bullock is being non-committal about the central bank’s plans as she stresses “the war” against rising inflation is not over.

Bullock said while recent data indicates inflation is easing, it remains high, and she said “it will be some time yet” before inflation is sustainably in the RBA’s two to three per cent target range.

“The path of interest rates

that will best ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe remains uncertain and the Board is not ruling anything in or out,” Bullock said.

“The Board will rely upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks. The Board will continue to pay close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in domestic demand, and the outlook for inflation and the labour market. The Board remains resolute in its determination to return inflation to target.”

rate move might be a hike as it battles “hard set” inflation.

“I still think that inflation is more hard set in Australia and around the world than people think. Why? Because it’s starting to be built into people’s expectations and what we’re seeing is wages are growing pretty well, so people are out spending that little bit more money,” he said.

ANZ Bank boss Shayne Elliott believes the market has been over optimistic in its rate cut expectations, warning that a downward move may not come this year. Elliott also flagged the possibility the RBA’s next

“The economy is a bit more robust than, I think, we give it credit for and I personally think it’s going to be a lot harder to see inflation come down into the target ranges, certainly in Australia.”

If you are struggling with mortgage payments, please reach out to us at Bell Partners Finance.

KELLIE

Relax & Unwind

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

With the Lunar Eclipse activating your wanderlust zone, many restless Aquarians will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy. So pull on your travelling shoes and escape on an Easter getaway or plan an adventurous trip for some time soon. On the weekend you’ll communicate your innovative ideas with extra pizazz, as you dream big dreams, talk about progressive philosophies, and make connections with influential folk from foreign shores.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Are you stuck in a Taurean rut? Have you been too stubborn to embrace change? This week’s Lunar Eclipse shakes up your daily routine zone. Plus adventurous Jupiter and innovative Uranus also inject fresh energy and enthusiasm into your day-to-day life. So use it as an opportunity to open your mind and expand your world. The Easter weekend favours social get-togethers with your extended peer group as you eat, drink, dance, enjoy and explore.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The Lunar Eclipse fires up your tempestuous nature, so you’ll feel amped up and ready to perform as you overdo just about everything! But don’t let overconfidence (and over-exuberance) trip you up. Your head’s full of ambitious dreams and fabulous schemes, but they’ll only work if you can persuade other people to contribute to Team Leo. You’ll find creative collaboration (especially at work) will take you a lot further than functioning as a solo operator.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Monday’s Lunar Eclipse favours meditation, contemplation, relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem or get to the bottom of a perplexing mystery. However, if you stubbornly hang onto the past and resist change, you’re in for a rocky ride. You need to be more flexible and adapt to constantly changing circumstances. Heed the wise words of Scorpio actor and social commentator Will Rogers, “Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse highlights a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture. Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope, as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well placed. And prepare for a burst of Piscean creativity and energy as Venus, Mars, Saturn and Neptune activate your sign. Lucky opportunities could magically manifest, especially within your local community or via social media.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

With four planets powering through your work zone, a professional matter or a volunteer project is taking up most of your precious time at the moment. If it’s too much to handle on your own, then don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from your peer group. Don’t battle on alone … others are happy to pitch in and help. As Ringo Starr sings, “I get by with a little help from my friends.” The weekend is wonderful for relaxing, unwinding, drifting and dreaming.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

With four planets dashing through your partnership zone, the more diplomatic, caring and compassionate you are, the better your personal and professional relationships will be. Monday’s pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse stimulates your self-esteem and money zone. So – if you want to do well financially – spending sprees are out, and serious saving is in! It’s also an appropriate time to reflect on your personal values and reassess your current priorities.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

The Sun and Mercury are transiting through your leisure and pleasure zone, so it’s time to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition, or organise a night at the movies. Plus the Lunar Eclipse activates your hopes and wishes zone. So smart Sagittarians will start dreaming and planning a bigger and better life now! Your quote is from this week’s birthday great, entertainer Elton John, “I’ve always been, and still am, a dreamer.”

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

Monday’s pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse lights up your partnership zone. So this week, focus maximum attention on the special loved ones in your life. It’s also time to get the balance right between invigorating independence and cosy togetherness. Your motto for the moment is from Aries writer and activist Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Crabs are the natural nurturers of the zodiac but looking after loved ones won’t be easy, as you juggle your busy personal and professional lives. Monday’s Lunar Eclipse falls in your domestic zone, so it’s a good week to clean and de-clutter your living space, then you can enjoy entertaining family and/or friends on the Easter weekend. Some lucky Crabs will travel somewhere special or unexpected – to a destination with good food and a cosy, homey atmosphere.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

The pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse is in your sign so do your best to be fair and balanced, as you appreciate differing viewpoints. But is your love life stuck on autopilot? It’s time to blast away the cobwebs and look at things from a fresh angle. Single Libra – are you fed up with dating disasters? Steer clear of flirtatious charmers with frivolous values and dubious motives. Attached Libra – love, adventure and experimentation are a super romantic mix.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Do your best to be sensitive to the needs of others. The pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse stirs up relationship insecurities (especially at home and work) and you may have to handle someone with kid gloves! Keep your Capricorn cool, as you participate in some difficult conversations and then deftly steer the subject matter onto safer ground. Short trips, education, friendships, creative projects, and local community connections are particularly favoured.

SO MUCH TO DISCOVER

Despite it being in a different state entirely, getting to Canberra from western Sydney can sometimes be quicker than a trip to the city, making it the perfect destination for a weekend away.

Earlier this month, I headed down to Canberra for a two-night stay at Crowne Plaza Canberra.

Located right in the middle of Canberra’s CBD, Crowne Plaza Canberra offers the perfect blend of luxury and affordability.

Upon entering the hotel, you are immediately greeted with an open and impressive reception area and 24-hour Business Centre – complete with premium facilities including computers with Internet access, printer, fax and photocopier – that perfectly encapsulate the feel of the rest of its amenities.

Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Crowne Plaza Canberra well and truly has it all, with everything from meeting and event spaces to an outdoor pool and fitness facilities.

This is also reflected in their rooms, with ours consisting of all the necessary conveniences to make your stay as comfortable as possible, in addition to a sizeable desk just in case you’re working on the go, meaning you have no need to leave the hotel.

Thankfully for me, this wasn’t the case, providing the perfect opportunity to go out and explore.

Of course, we’ve all heard what they say about Canberra – it’s boring! But, if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that there are plenty of things to see and do.

As far as tourist attractions go, things like Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial and Questacon are necessities in a trip to Canberra. There are also plenty of art galleries and museums to visit, including the National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, and National Library of Australia.

Currently, Crowne Plaza Canberra is offering a Discovering Ancient Egypt Package, which includes complimentary tickets to the must-see ‘Discovering Ancient Egypt’ exhibition at The National Museum of Australia. So, we had to head down and check it out.

Just a five-minute drive from the hotel, The National Museum of Australia is home to a number of exhibitions which bring to life the rich and diverse stories of Australia, including ‘Great Southern Land’ and ‘First Australians’.

“IF YOU DIG A LITTLE DEEPER, YOU’LL FIND THAT THERE ARE PLENTY OF THINGS TO SEE AND DO”

These exhibitions are all very well done, utilising interactive elements, galleries and animations to keep visitors engaged from start to finish.

Though the newest addition, ‘Discovering Ancient Egypt’, is contrasting in subject matter, the style is no different.

The exhibition features objects from the

remarkable collection of the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities, including ornate sculptures, rare Book of the Dead scrolls, exquisite jewellery, and 10 coffins.

Though it isn’t something I’d recommend taking young children to, given the gravitas of some of the pieces, I found ‘Discovering Ancient Egypt’ to provide great insight into into the everyday life and culture of the ancient Egyptians.

Crown Plaza Canberra’s location means it’s also central to plenty of other amenities and attractions, including the National Zoo and Aquarium.

Located just outside the city in Yarralumla, the National Zoo and Aquarium is set on 19 hectares, and is Australia’s only combined Zoo and Aquarium.

As someone who goes to the zoo or aquarium just about everywhere I visit, I can well and truly say that this is one of the best. Though the aquarium is on the smaller side, the zoo itself is beautiful and incredibly well laid out, guaranteeing an enjoyable few hours.

Cassidy Pearce

Cassidy Pearce,

1800 007 697

DURING A WEEKEND IN CANBERRA

As far as food goes, there are also plenty of great options nearby.

For craft beer fans, or anyone who just wants a good feed, I can’t recommend BentSpoke Brewing Co. more. We went here for dinner one night, and left with full bellies, and a few six packs.

But, we couldn’t head back to the hotel without stopping off at Messina, which is apparently the place to be in Canberra on a Saturday night, with the line extending out the door and onto the footpath.

“REDSALT

IS

CONVENIENT, REASONABLY PRICED, AND THE CASARECCE IS TO DIE FOR”

If you do want a night in, however, I highly recommend dining at Crowne Plaza Canberra’s signature Redsalt Restaurant. It’s convenient, reasonably priced, and the casarecce is to die for. This is also where you’ll find a stellar buffet breakfast in the morning, complete with plenty of delicious hot and cold options, and a cook to order station if you’re feeling fancy.

Though Canberra isn’t everyone’s dream holiday destination, take this as your sign to give it another go, with Crowne Plaza Canberra the perfect home base.

78

5

3 6

Like Sudoku, no single number can rows and columns are divided by black . These need to be filled in with numbers that is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [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.

Crossword brought to you by OnePointHealth onepointhealth.com.au | 4732 5188

510/536 High Street, Penrith

Sudoku brought to you by Nepean Aquatic Centre nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au

No. 687

76

742 3954 517

164 648 9632

159 92

614723598

239518764 758946213

372159486

461382957

985467132

846291375

123675849

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

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4730 8900

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Word Search

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

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about Australian currency in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. Who is currently on the front of the Australian $10 note?

2. Who is pictured on the back of the Australian $100 note?

3. In what year was the $1 bank note replaced by a $1 coin?

4. Aboriginal writer and inventor David Unaipon appears on which Australian bank note?

5. How many kangaroos appear

on the front of the Australian $1 coin?

6. When did one and two cent coins exit circulation in Australia?

7. What was the “dollar” originally going to be called, before

7.

Toyota’s important step

All-new SUVs boast latest technology as electrification strategy gains traction

NATHAN TAYLOR

The all-new Toyota bZ4X SUV has arrived in Australian showrooms, with Toyota’s first BEV introducing a new BEV-specific platform, the latest motor generator and battery technology, and advanced safety and connected technologies.

Launching in its latest global specification, the bZ4X draws on more than a quarter of a century of Toyota leadership in hybrid vehicles.

The bZ4X represents another important step in the multi-pathway approach to electrification that includes a range of technologies.

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the bZ4X offers capability, practicality, and value for those suited to a BEV lifestyle.

“The bZ4X is not just an electric car; it’s the foundation for the next phase of our electrification strategy that hits a sweet spot with its mid-size SUV dimensions, space and functionality,” he said.

“As the first Toyota BEV, it will

accelerate our multi-pathway approach that’s designed to help our customers lower their tailpipe carbon emissions while leaving no-one behind.”

The bZ4X is the first Toyota in Australia to use the new BEV-dedicated e-TNGA platform, which has been designed and optimised for a new range of electric vehicles.

It integrates the battery and motor generator into the vehicle’s structure, providing extra rigidity and a low centre of gravity for stable driving dynamics.

This approach allows the wheels to be pushed further outward to the front and rear, leaving more room for passengers within the vehicle’s footprint.

It also offers the versatility of front or all-wheel-drive traction – the latter providing benchmark off-road capability among all-electric SUVs.

The e-TNGA platform gave designers the freedom to create an innovative BEV that embodies the inherent appeal of an SUV shape, while achieving impressive aerodynamic efficiency.

The bZ4X is the first model in Australia to display Toyota’s distinctive ‘hammerhead’ frontal design theme, where the bonnet surface continues to the nose and extends to each corner.

Inside, the bZ4X makes the most of the improved passenger space afforded by the e-TNGA platform, benefiting visibility, passenger and cargo space, practicality and comfort.

The FWD bZ4X is priced from $66,000 with the AWD bZ4X available from $74,900.

Visit your local Toyota dealer.

2024 Toyota bZ4X FWD and AWD.

Supercars to race under lights at Eastern Creek

In a huge win for local motor racing fans, Supercars will finish under lights on the Sunday evening of the 2024 Sydney SuperNight with the race start and finish time shifted back an hour to take advantage of twilight racing.

Saturday’s race under lights in Sydney has become one of the most anticipated events on the calendar, and in 2024 the July event will feature a twilight Sunday race that will finish under lights.

While the timings of the track schedule is still to be confirmed, Supercars Head of Television

Nathan Prendergast said it’s great news to be finishing under lights twice at the event this year.

“Night racing at Sydney Motorsport Park has become one of the highlights of the year, for fans and for viewers watching at home from around the globe,” he said.

“We believe this decision improves the overall quality of the on-track show and will bring fans fireworks at Sydney Motorsport Park as the winners cross the finish line in both races.”

Formats for the 2024 Sydney SuperNight will remain as planned, with a 90-minute practice session on the Friday of the event, followed by Qualifying and a Top Ten Shootout on

Saturday, prior to Saturday night’s 200km race.

Sunday will consist of one Qualifying session, a Top Ten Shootout and the twilight race, also 200km in length.

This year’s event in Sydney will feature five additional categories on the support card: the Porsche Carrera Cup,

2023 Sydney SuperNight.

The Matilda effect

Huge rise in female football sign-ups

NATHAN TAYLOR

While sports like AFL are sadly declining in the local area, the same can’t be said for football which continues to go from strength to strength.

Off the back of the Matildas’ success, last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup and the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, Football NSW is experiencing a record level of player registrations ahead of the 2024 football season.

At the end of February, Football NSW already had over 25,000 more player registrations than at the same time last year. Female player registrations enjoyed a year-on-year increase of 23 per cent, while 5-12-year-old player registrations have gone on up 27 per cent across the state.

The 2024 registration increase comes off the back of a 34 per cent total increase in 2023/24 summer football numbers, with the momentum from last year’s Women’s World Cup showing no signs of slowing down.

Locally, the game is thriving as well with St Marys Football Club – one of the oldest clubs in the Nepean Football Association –experiencing a 60 per cent increase in player registrations and an eye-watering 173 per cent increase in female player registrations as of March 17.

Speaking with the Weekender, Female Football Coordinator at St Marys FC Rebecca Pressick said her club wanted to be the home of female football in the area.

“To be honest, it’s just using that Matilda effect,” she admitted.

“We knew a lot of girls were interested in playing. I was getting a lot of enquiries about girls coming across to play, so we made the decision to put incentives in place to make us the home club choice in the area.”

In a clever way to increase their numbers, St Marys FC offered all new female players to their club a 50 per cent discount on registrations.

“I knew every club would be trying to capture these players, so we made the decision to offer half price registration for all new female players to our club,” Pressick said.

“It’s a special discount to encourage them to come to our club instead of our neighbouring clubs and that’s had a profound effect.”

And the special promotion seems to have worked a treat, with St Marys FC going from two female teams last season to six.

“This year we have two all-age ladies’ teams representing St Marys and four all-girl teams (U15 girls, U14 girls, U12 girls and U11 girls),” Pressick said.

“We’ve seen players switch from other football clubs because not all clubs have all-female teams like we do.

“Others are brand-new to football and team

sport, while some have switched from other codes.”

Along with the stunning boost in numbers, which also includes male registrations going up 25 per cent, St Marys FC is leading the way in the front office too – appointing their firstever female President in Nicole Collins.

“Nicole is our first female president and started the role this season” Pressick said.

“Half of our committee is female and three quarters of the executive committee is female too.”

The season kicks off next month.

WANDERERS BOUNCE BACK

Story continued from » p.72

“We knew it was going to be a tough match for us considering the last month of football,” Rudan said.

“I thought we managed the last three days extremely well – it could have gone either way but I couldn’t be more proud of the players in terms of the way they conducted themselves, their discipline, their fight, their togetherness, and also the ability to keep the ball and play the way we did.”

Rudan said his side made the most their time away in Perth, enjoying dinner and a laugh together in the lead-up to the game at HBF Park.

“It’s been over 10 years since the club last won here [in Perth],” he said.

“This win is for every body back home, particularly our fans who are also going through some tough times at the moment.

“There was a real strong spirit amongst us – a lot of people were writing us off –that’s what happens.”

Brandon Borrello opened the scoring for Western Sydney in the 11th minute with his first goal of the season before Perth hit back on the stroke of half-time through Adam Taggart.

After withstanding a sustained period of pressure, substitute Lachlan Brook got the go-ahead goal for the Wanderers with 10 minutes remaining.

Rudan’s men will enjoy this weekend off before taking on Macarthur FC in Campbelltown on Easter Monday.

Some of St Marys FC’s female players.

New netball season arrives as Hadley joins coaching line-up

NATHAN TAYLOR

Australian Diamonds and NSW Swifts superstar Paige Hadley has joined the coaching staff of the Panthers Netball Premier League team this upcoming season.

The highly respected St Clair Netball junior has linked up with the franchise as a Specialist Coach for the next three years and will help out with the club’s Under 23s and Opens teams.

The 31-year-old Commonwealth Games gold medallist and World Cup winner was in attendance at last week’s 2024 Panthers Netball Season Launch, held at Penrith City Council.

Hadley, who is considered as Panther #1, was asked by the team’s High Performance Manager Lisa Beehag on stage if she’d ever wear the black dress as a player once her professional career winds up.

“Hopefully not in the near future, but never say never,” Hadley teased.

“Netball is always going to be a big part of my life and when I finally step away from the green and gold dress and the red dress, it’s going to

be at the right time. Now is not that time and I never say never.”

Along with netball royalty in Hadley was the entire Panthers Netball squad for the season, which officially got underway on Wednesday against North Shore United.

The Panthers Opens team had a horror 2023, plagued by injury which saw them finish with the wooden spoon courtesy of three wins and 13 losses.

Panthers Opens assistant coach

Elicha Reitsma said she’s very excited to see the team back on the court after a disappointing year.

“We’ve got a really exciting group of athletes coming along for the journey this year – half of them have returned and there’s some new talent in the team including three Under 23s players who have been promoted into the side,” she told the Weekender

“We had a lot of setbacks with injury last year, really severe injuries

that would see us lose the player for the entire season. Because of how competitive that level is, it’s really hard to find replacement players of the same quality.

“Unfortunately it wasn’t our season last year but that foundation and culture coming through was what kept the girls going.”

It was a different story for the Panthers Under 23s team, who finished last year in fourth position, reaching the Preliminary Finals.

While much of her team has changed this season, Panthers Under 23s coach Jenny Barsby said the expectations remain the same.

“It’s definitely a very different team but the expectation doesn’t change – we’re still looking for a top four finish,” she told the Weekender

“I think we still have to have that same goal and aim for that top four. I think the team has got it in them, so we just have to strive for that.”

Adding to the competition’s interest this season is the introduction of new franchise the South West Mounties Magic, which is made of players from the Liverpool City Netball Association and Mounties.

“It’ll be nice to have a full complement of teams again this season,” Reitsma said.

Pendragons Abreast:

supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.

At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.

Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.

We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.

Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith

Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384

Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.

Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384

The 2024 Panthers Netball Premier League squad. Photo: Clusterpix Photography.

Lisa Beehag and Paige Hadley.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

GWS Giants making a big, big sound

AFL: It may only be two rounds in, but the GWS Giants are already proving to be the team to beat this season after blowing away North Melbourne by 39 points in the latest round of the AFL. Played in front of 8,000 fans at ENGIE Stadium, the home side gradually wore down the sharp-shooting Kangaroos as Jesse Hogan dominated up forward for the second week running in the 121-82 victory. Hogan booted six goals – on the back of four against Collingwood in the Opening Round – while hauling in eight marks and gathering 18 disposals, while Jake Riccardi made a fast-start with three majors in the first quarter against the Kangaroos’ under-sized and inexperienced backline. The Giants will look to keep their winning ways going when they travel to Perth this Sunday to play the West Coast Eagles.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers are inching closer to a Finals berth after defeating Perth Glory 1-0 in Round 20 of the A-League Women’s competition. An outrageous goal from Sophie Harding after half-time helped to secure the important victory for the red-hot side. Harding’s moment of magic occurred less than 10 minutes into the second half as the Matildas hopeful controlled a long ball before then dispatching a stunning strike over the head of Perth goalkeeper Morgan Aquino and into the back of the net to secure the win. The Wanderers, who are currently in sixth spot on the ladder, will take on the second placed Western United this Saturday night at Wanderers Football Park.

in our attack, but she has contributed with goals and assists in a meaningful way,” he said. “Having a player of her attitude, commitment and her ability is something that the club is looking forward to having for the next two years.” Caspers said she was looking forward to continuing her development at the club. “It’s given me a lot of confidence (recent performances), it’s great to have skills, but if you don’t have the confidence to back yourself to be able to perform on the day it can be hard to hold a position in the team,” she said. “I’m really grateful for the coach and the girls around me in lifting each other’s confidence, and being able to perform each game.” Caspers added that while the team’s goal is to win silverware, hers is to keep developing as a player.

FOOTBALL: Western Sydney Wanderers forward Holly Caspers has re-signed on a two-year deal that will see her at the club until the end of 2025/26. Caspers has had a breakout second season at the Red & Black and is leading the league with seven assists to her name as well as five goals. The forward has played an instrumental role in one of the Wanderers’ strongest seasons yet of the A-League competition with Caspers creating 13 scoring chances for teammate Sophie Harding this season – the most of any pair in the competition. Wanderers coach Robbie Hooker spoke highly of Caspers’ contribution both on and off the field. “It’s great news that Holly has decided to re-sign, and she’s done really well over the last few months. She’s not only provided some variety

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 7 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend, with disappointing results for Penrith’s SG Ball and Harold Matthews teams. In the SG Ball Cup, Penrith went down to the Cronulla Sharks 28-22. In the Harold Matthews Cup, Penrith lost a close one to the Central Coast Roosters 14-12.

On Saturday, Penrith’s SG Ball team will face Melbourne at St Marys, while their Harold Matts team battle the Newcastle Knights, also at St Marys.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 7 of the NSWRL Junior Representative Women’s season took place last weekend, with losses for Penrith’s Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaola Cup sides. In the Tarsha Gale Cup, Cronulla belted the Panthers 48-4. In the Lisa Fiaola Cup, the Sharks were too good for Penrith 30-14. Both teams will play the Illawarra Steelers this Saturday at St Marys Leagues Stadium.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 1 of the NSWRL Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend, with St Marys and Brothers Penrith having mixed starts. In Ron Massey Cup, St Marys defeated Mounties 24-6, while Brothers Penrith were blown away by the Wenty Magpies 44-0. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys smashed Mounties 46-22, while Brothers Penrith and Wentworthville United played out a 24-24 draw.

FOOTBALL: Auckland FC, the newest club in the A-League, will officially join the men’s competition next season. The team name was revealed as ‘Auckland FC’ last week – following

a wide-ranging consultation process that showed a desire to anchor the team to its home city and reflect a strong football heritage that both the fans and the owners wanted in the name. Auckland FC will join the A-League Men’s competition at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, while Auckland FC will launch its women’s team, to play in the 2025/26 season, early next year.

BASEBALL: Congratulations to Penrith Baseball Club’s Senior League Panthers team for winning their Greater Western Baseball Association Grand Final last Saturday. The Panthers defeated the Holroyd Giants at Peter Van Hasselt Baseball Fields.

RACING: The Magic Millions-winning horse with huge connections to Penrith has drawn perfectly for Saturday’s Golden Slipper at Rosehill. Legendary trainer Gai Waterhouse brought Storm Boy to The Log Cabin last year as part of an address to a business group. A group of 15 business owners from the day bought a $6000 share each and collectively own 20 per cent of the two-year-old colt. It won the Magic Millions on the Gold Coast in January.

On Tuesday, the Waterhouse and Adrian Bott trained Storm Boy drew Barrier Two for the $5 million Group One Golden Slipper. Storm Boy is now a $2.10 favourite for Saturday’s race. The race will be shown live on Channel Seven as well as Sky Racing on Foxtel.

Holly Caspers re-signs with the Wanderers.

New A-League franchise Auckland FC.

Josh Kelly celebrates his 200th game with the GWS Giants. Photo: Matt King/AFL Photos.

Western Sydney Wanderers coach Marko Rudan has apologised after not fronting the media following his side’s horrific 7-0 loss to Melbourne City last week.

Off the back of the biggest loss in club history, Rudan sent his assistant Jean-Paul

de Marigny to speak with reporters at AAMI Park post-match.

de Marigny, a former Wanderers head coach himself, declined to say why his boss wouldn’t speak, but last Saturday evening – following Western Sydney’s 2-1 win over Perth – Rudan finally emerged from the locker room to address the media in a whopping 12-minute press conference.

“I apologise for not fronting the media [last week],” Rudan said.

“I understand that I’ve got a responsibility as the head coach of this football club but without going into too much [detail], there’s been a lot going on with myself personally, in my personal life.

“I should’ve [spoke] even though it was a tough few days for me personally in terms of what’s going on.

“I should’ve been better in that moment.” It’s unclear what Rudan’s personal matter is, but on the field, his side did manage to get a much-needed win after dropping

NATHAN TAYLOR

Photo: Getty.