Western Weekender February 23 2024

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INSIDE Special Travel & Fun Feature Starts page 35

Friday, February 23, 2024

LOCAL SWIFTIES ARE READY TO LIVE OUT THEIR…

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mily Catt, Hayley Catt, Desiree Robinson and Winny Tang (pictured above) are just four of thousands of Penrith locals who will be heading to Accor Stadium this weekend for Taylor Swift’s sold-out concerts.

It seems the whole country is caught up in Swiftmania, not the least of which locals who have planned outfits, made friendship bracelets and won the almost impossible fight to score tickets.

And while Swift won’t make her way to Penrith for a tour of the Panthers Rugby League Academy or a bite to eat at Happy Inn on High Street, there’s no question our city is caught up in the excitement.

Stores are selling merchandise and bracelet kits, Swift’s music is pumping through cafe speakers and set lists are being memorised.

Bigger than The Beatles? Perhaps not, but for this generation, it’s the equivalent.

Swift will begin her four Sydney shows tonight (Friday, February 23), with concert-goers urged to take public transport and leave plenty of travel time.

Accor Stadium says it is planning for its biggest event since the Olympics in 2000, having never staged back-to-back concerts or sporting events of this scale in the decades since.

Full coverage on » pages 12, 13 and 14

Pop superstar Taylor Swift.

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Let’s celebrate the heroes in our community ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ˜˦ ˛ˢˠ˘ ˧ˢ ˠ˔ˡˬ ˗˘˗˜˖˔˧˘˗ʟ ˦˘˟Є˘˦˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˜˥˔˧˜ˢˡ˔˟ ˣ˘ˢˣ˟˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˧˛˘ ˡ˘˪ ʿˢ˖˔˟ ʶ˘˟˘˕˥˔˧˜ˢˡ ʴ˪˔˥˗˦ ˔˥˘ ˔ˡ ˢˣˣˢ˥˧˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˙ˢ˥ ˨˦ ˧ˢ ˥˘˖ˢ˚ˡ˜˦˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˧˛˔ˡ˞ ˧˛˘˦˘ ˣ˘ˢˣ˟˘ ˜ˡ ˢ˨˥ ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬʡ Nominate someone you know who is making a difference, who dedicates their time to make Penrith a special place ˧ˢ ˟˜˩˘ ˢ˥ ˪˛ˢ ˪ˢ˥˞˦ ˧˜˥˘˟˘˦˦˟ˬ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˛˘ ˕˘ˡ˘Ѓ˧ ˢ˙ ˢ˧˛˘˥˦ʡ There are four categories to choose from: Citizen of the Year (over 18yrs old) Young Citizen of the Year (under 24yrs) Mayor’s Local Heroes Award (all ages) Making a Difference – Community Service Award (all ages)

Nominations are open until 15 April 2024. Find out how to nominate and learn more about the award program at ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˟ˢ˖˔˟ʠ˖˘˟˘˕˥˔˧˜ˢˡʠ˔˪˔˥˗˦ʡ

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

Fears platypus habitat is under big threat at Boundary Creek EMILY CHATE

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he longevity of a Penrith platypus habitat is under threat, experts say, as Sydney Water works to strengthen a creek bank.

Sydney Water was ordered by the Land and Environment Court in 2021 to reinforce the bank at Boundary Creek after they were found liable for its erosion.

Conservationists have raised concerns about this work, which is likely to take three years and utilise building materials like concrete.

Coordinator of the Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group, Lisa Harrold, said it’s concerning to see the platypus habitat under threat.

“Platypus at Boundary Creek have this refuge and safe haven to build their burrows where they know there is going to be water flow, where they know there is going to be flourishing opportunities, and Sydney Water is about to turn the tap off,” she said.

“It is a genuine concern, because if they [Sydney Water] turn the tap off, at what might very well be platypus breeding central, I don’t know, but it would stand to reason that they have to go somewhere.”

The potential impact on the platypus population at Boundary Creek has made Western Sydney University Senior Lecturer

Dr Michelle Ryan working with platypus at Boundary Creek in Penrith.

Dr Michelle Ryan concerned about the future health of the platypus territory.

“We know that platypus live, feed and burrow in Boundary Creek,” she said.

“Converting the creek to an engineered, open concrete channel, will stop platypus availability to burrow into the creek banks and will diminish the available food supply.

“The construction process itself, involving the cessation of creek flow for several years adds immense pressure on the platypus population by removing Boundary Creek as available habitat.”

Harrold believes there is a way to solve this issue, but it would take cooperation between conservationists and Sydney Water.

“We have a problem; we are asking Sydney Water to find a solution. We are looking at other habitat opportunities nearby. Could we improve nearby habitats so to not just wipe out Boundary Creek and let them fend for themselves,” she said.

“It would appear that under the court order, they [Sydney Water] are going to have to do this remediation, so we are going to have to think laterally and think about what we can offer these animals.”

A Sydney Water spokesperson responded to the claims by reiterating the organisation’s aim to protect the platypus habitat, saying it would work with experts.

“The safety of the platypus and their habitat remains a high priority for Sydney Water,” the spokesperson said.

“Sydney Water is working closely with platypus experts and remains committed to finding a way to ensure their protection, “Sydney Water is required by the Land and Environment Court to carry out stabilisation work at Boundary Creek”.

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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the western weekender PO BOX 7105 South Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255

The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

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Could Albo go early?

The drums are getting louder.

Talk to anyone with their ear to the ground in politics and the words ‘early election’ get a run.

There’s plenty of talk that Anthony Albanese could send us to the polls this year – perhaps a full 12 months before he’d be required to in September 2025.

The public’s recent support for his changes to the stage three tax cuts have helped Albanese regain some of his mojo after the failed Voice referendum last year had some questioning whether Australians had stopped listening.

A pros and cons list for an early election would surely have Labor leaning towards this year, potentially in October or early November.

It is shaping up as reasonably strong year for Albanese politically after a shaky 2023.

We’re likely to see interest rate cuts this year, with the economy in much better shape and inflation under control.

That will ease some of the pressure on Albanese, who many accused of not appropriately dealing the cost-of-living crisis despite his promises before the 2022 election.

Labor would feel they’d have the Coalition’s measure at the moment but there’s a legitimate fear that with another 12 months under his belt, Peter Dutton could make a contest out of an election.

Dutton has surprised many since becoming Opposition Leader and it could be argued he’s far from the stop gap many thought when he first took the role.

But should Labor go early, it will force Dutton into campaign mode well before he’d be seen as ready; or at least before the Liberals have decided exactly what they’re going to try to sell to the public when we next go to the polls.

Many would also argue there’s no point risking another summer before the election.

Any government knows the Christmas break can be the riskiest period politically, especially going into an election year.

A bad bushfire season, for example, can completely change the conversation.

Index

“There’s no point risking another summer before the election”

Should Albanese continue to recover from a 2023 that raised serious questions about his Prime Ministership, there will be a window to go early in the final quarter of the year.

He’d be mad not to take it.

Re-inventing the wheel What am I missing with Foxtel’s launch of its Hubbl device this week?

It’s described as “transformative TV technology” by News Corp, who of course is the majority owner of Foxtel.

But it is essentially doing what Google’s Chromecast and Amazon’s Fire Stick have (among others) done for years – providing a single platform where all streaming apps are displayed and where content from all of those apps is available on the home screen.

Apparently it solves the very first world problem of not knowing which service that show you were watching was on.

And there’s more, too.

“To enhance the Hubbl experience, users can also purchase Hubbl Glass, a TV with Hubbl and a high-quality, built-in sound bar that only requires an Internet connection and a power cord – no other wires needed,” News Corp says.

So, in other words, a Smart TV? No pricing for the Hubbl device itself has been set yet but you can almost guarantee

News..........................................................1-25 School Open Days...................26-28 Business.............................................29-34

it’ll cost more than the Chromecast and Fire TV already in the market.

I’m a Foxtel fan and subscriber, but it often feels like they’re playing catch-up in an already crowded market.

This one is a reinvention of the wheel that feels almost impossible to succeed, though there’s no doubt they’ll use the News Corp network to extensively promote this “transformative” piece of tech.

History awaits Penrith’s best ever team There will be some early alarms going off across Penrith on Sunday morning for the World Club Challenge between Penrith and Wigan.

You’d be forgiven for not knowing the game is on, with most of the rugby league media obsessed with the junket to Las Vegas next weekend to open the new season.

This is a particularly significant game for this Panthers side that has conquered all before it over the last three seasons.

No Penrith team has ever won the World Club Challenge, with the Panthers losing both trips to England following the 1991 and 2003 deciders, and St Helens getting the better of Ivan Cleary’s side last year.

It is a unique chance to grab a slice of history on the trip of a lifetime.

The game has also deserved significantly more attention than it has received. Even the NRL has barely promoted it. In fact, it’s not even in their schedule of games on their website’s home page for the weekend.

It may not be a sanctioned NRL game but this is your three-time champions representing your league in an international event.

You’d think it’d rate a mention.

Regardless, there will be plenty of cheers from the lounge rooms of Penrith if the team manages to snare this rare piece of silverware on Sunday morning.

It would be an empty feeling if Penrith were to come back home without the prize in the bank given what they’ve achieved over the last couple of years.

Wigan would like nothing better than to knock off the best team in the world. It’ll be an absolute beauty.

Travel & Fun Feature..............35-56 Entertainment..............................57-64 Western Property........................65-71

The Experts.....................................72-75 Relax & Unwind...........................76-82 Sport.....................................................84-88

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

An early election feels inevitable

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

Spike in homeless numbers “This crisis is real”: Pressure on government to deliver more affordable housing EMILY CHATE

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he housing crisis has taken another hit as new data shows a spike in homelessness within the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA).

The statistics show a 180 person increase in the 2022-2023 period compared to the 2021-2022 period.

The 2021-2022 period had 2071 people receiving help in the Penrith area, with the number in the 2022-2023 period sitting at 2254, showing there has been an 8.6 per cent increase in people receiving assistance regarding homelessness.

Recent data from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice also shows there are longer waiting times for those seeking social housing.

The Penrith LGA has one of the highest increases in homelessness, sitting just behind the Inner West and Canterbury-Bankstown LGAs. Homelessness NSW CEO Dom Rowe said the crisis is putting pressure on frontline services.

“NSW’s housing crisis is putting huge pressure on frontline homelessness services, with many

Homelessness is a growing issue in Penrith. Generic stock photo.

struggling to keep up with rising demand,” he said.

“NSW must increase funding for specialist homelessness services, as Queensland has just done with a 20 per cent boost.”

He said this new data highlights

the need for more social housing work to be done in the Greater Western Sydney region, including upping the production of new homes being built and ensuring they are affordable and accessible to those experiencing homelessness.

“LGAs across metropolitan Sydney and also suburban and rural areas are seeing increased levels of homelessness – showing that plummeting house affordability is affecting people right across the state,” Rowe said.

“We must also urgently build more social and affordable homes. Right now just one in 20 homes are social housing but we need this to be at least one in 10 by 2050 to slash the 57,000-strong, decade-long waitlist and end NSW’s homelessness crisis.’

The NSW Government has reiterated its commitment to reduce the numbers of those experiencing homelessness across the state.

Housing and Homelessness Minister, Rose Jackson, said that this new data highlights the housing crisis throughout all of NSW. “The NSW Government, from the very beginning, has acknowledged this crisis is real and we must do everything we can to end homelessness,” Jackson said.

“The NSW Government is determined to confront this challenge.

We know you can’t solve homelessness if you don’t have affordable homes for people to live in – that is the core work we are doing and we ask local councils and the community to walk with us on this journey.”

The report emphasises the need for an increase in affordable housing and for those houses to be accessible to those experiencing homelessness.

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

Glenmore Park: Failure to stop at RBT reveals long list of issues

A man has been charged over failing to stop at an RBT last week.

At about 10.05pm on Tuesday, February 13, Police were conducting roadside breath testing on Glenmore Parkway.

A white Mitsubishi truck approached the breath testing site. It is alleged the driver attempted to perform an emergency stop before the site and harshly reversed back into approaching traffic where a collision occurred with a black Kawasaki motorcycle.

It is then alleged the driver reversed over the motorcycle after the rider managed to get away. The driver of the truck then accelerated at a high speed and drove straight toward the breath testing site and ignored directions from Police to stop. The truck travelled on Kenneth Slessor Drive where the man and another male exited the vehicle and ran away.

Police engaged in a short foot pursuit and located the driver in the grounds of a nearby unit block. It is alleged the driver refused to assist Police in attempts to identify the other male from the vehicle.

The driver was identified as a 38-year-old from Campbelltown. The man was drug tested and Police are awaiting the test results.

Checks were conducted on the man’s licence which revealed the man’s NSW driver’s license was cancelled from May of 2022.

Checks on the truck were conducted which revealed the front and rear licence plates were different. It is alleged the front number plate was made from stickers. Checks of the vehicle showed numerous beer kegs that were reported stolen.

The man was refused bail and will appear at Penrith Local Court on February 22.

Penrith: Man busted drink driving, will front court in March.

A man has been charged following a positive roadside breath test in Penrith.

At about 11.50pm on Friday, February 16 Police were travelling along the Northern Road and noticed a red Honda motorbike travelling above the speed limit. The Police stopped the vehicle and spoke to the 26-yearold Merrylands man.

The man was breath tested which returned a positive result, he was then arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station.

At the station the man underwent a breath analysis that returned the positive reading of 0.088, the Police then suspended the man’s licence.

The man will appear at Penrith Local Court on March 14.

Penrith: Youth among those charged following armed robbery

Three men have been charged following an alleged armed robbery at a tobacconist in Penrith last weekend.

At about 11.30pm on Friday, February 16, it is alleged that three masked men entered the store, with one man being armed with a knife. It is alleged they began to ransack the store when an attendant attempted to stop one of the men. One of the alleged attackers pulled a knife and lunged at the attendant, the attendant then put his arm up and was stabbed in the arm. Police were called and began an investigation.

On Monday, February 19, Police received information which identified the man armed with the knife. The man was identified as a youth and was arrested at a shopping centre in Penrith. The youth was also charged with a separate break and enter offence at the Joan Sutherland Centre at 8.15pm on the same night and several stealing offences in the Penrith CBD. The youth was charged with multiple offences including ‘robbery in company causing wounding’, ‘shoplifting’ offences, and ‘aggravated break and enter’ offences. The male will appear in the Children’s Court at a later date.

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

PRE-PURCHASE DUE DILIGENCE If you are thinking about buying a property of any type your solicitor or conveyancer is going to recommend that you conduct “pre-purchase inspections” and/or obtain “pre-purchase reports”.

This article is broken into two parts and will be published over two weeks.

The first instalment deals with the “run-ofthe-mill” reports you will need to consider when you are buying a property, and the second instalment talks about your options if you want to dive deeper in your due diligence.

The inspections and reports we are referring to in these articles are completed either before you enter into a contract or during your cooling off period.

The reason this is done prior to you being unconditionally locked into your purchase contract is that in almost all cases, when you buy a property in New South Wales, you take it “as is”. This means you take it warts and all and any problems at the property subject to some very limited exceptions become your problems either after unconditional exchange or once your cooling off period expires.

Up until contracts are unconditional you have an opportunity to negotiate with a seller about things at the property that might require rectification. This is because there is motivation for the seller to work with you as you are not yet unconditionally locked into the deal and if they do not work with you, you might decide not to proceed with the purchase.

It is at this stage that it is in everybody’s interests to reach a compromise.

Once you exchange contracts unconditionally or your cooling off period expires

however you are locked into the deal rain hail or shine. This means that even if you discover problems at the property after the fact, there is really no motivation, or putting it more starkly, you do not have any leverage to negotiate with the seller to rectify any issues.

There are two main types of pre-purchase inspection/report that most people obtain in relation to their property purchase.

The first is your pest and building report.

This is fairly self-explanatory. An inspector or inspectors come and assess the property to see if they can find any evidence of pest infestation (for example past termite damage or live termite activity) or any other defects at the property. Every property has defects.

Even brand new properties have defects.

A thorough report will pick up everything from chipped tiles in a bathroom, loose door handles, and stained carpet to more serious issues like water/moisture damage, structural or other defects and a range of other issues that may be serious or non-serious in nature.

The second main type of report only applies if you are purchasing a strata property. If you are purchasing a strata property it is recommended that you obtain a strata report. A strata report provides important information about the current level of strata levies, how much money the strata plan or owners corporation has put away for things like maintenance of common property(for example gardening) and major works. A strata report usually also gives you some insight as to how the strata plan has been spending its money and whether or not there are any special levies (which are an additional levy payable on top of your normal levies).

EXTRA TRAINS TO HELP SWIFTIES GET TO SOLD OUT CONCERTS AT OLYMPIC PARK descend on the precinct each night for the Blink-182 concerts, with a crowd of up to 100,000 expected across both events on Friday and Saturday.

Transport for NSW Coordinator General Howard Collins said public transport was the best way to get to and from the events with more than 1,200 additional trains and buses running across the four days.

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Extra trains will be running across the weekend to get concert-goers to Taylor Swift’s shows in Sydney.

The highly anticipated Sydney shows at Accor Stadium are all sold out with bumper crowds of more than 75,000 ticketholders expected each night from Friday through to Monday.

More than 15,000 event-goers are set to

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

“We will have more than 550 additional high-frequency trains and 700 major event buses servicing the precinct across the four nights on top of regular services,” Collins said.

“Travel on all modes of public transport is included in your Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour concert ticket – just show your ticket to transport staff when boarding services.”

Limited-stop trains will leave Penrith and

Blacktown every 15 minutes from around 4pm, stopping all stations to Seven Hills, then Westmead, Parramatta, Granville, Lidcombe and Olympic Park.

Anyone dropping off fans should arrive early to avoid getting stuck in traffic and potentially missing the start of the show. Use the dedicated drop-off zone on Australia Ave or consider dropping off further away.

Caroline Chisholm College

Celebrates the oustanding learning achivements of the HSC class of 2023 Caroline Chisholm College delivers quality learning opportunities in a Catholic educational context for girls from Years 7-12. It is with enormous pride that the College community congratulates the HSC class of 2023 on their outstanding achievements in the HSC. We congratulate our ATAR Dux Lucy Spisiak, scoring 96.3. Lucy also achieved second in the state in the VET Human Services HSC examination. Lucy scored Band 6 results in the following HSC courses: Studies of Religion I, Mathematics Standard 2, Visual Arts. Lucy’s results are a testament to her dedication and commitment to her senior studies and willingness to achieve her best possible results. Lucy also achieved first in her Clinical Placement in Allied Health Services (Nursing course). As a college community, we applaud her outstanding results and wish her well as she commences her studies in Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) at University of Sydney.

In addition, the college congratulates the following students who also achieved an ATAR result over 90: Jacqueline Lam, Olivia Martin, Lily McElroy, April Monteleone, Stefania Saliba, Lucy Spisiak, Ann Thomas and Tara Tjahjadi.

The following students are congratulated for being placed in the Premier's Distinguished Achievers List: Bella Cunningham, Ebony Duardo, Maddison Faber, Marlee Hanna, Anabella Hazell, Chloe Heidtmann, Monique Heidtmann, Shae Hodgson, Raphaila Idris, Chloe Kramer, Jacqueline Lam, Olivia Martin, Emily Matthews, Lily McElroy, April Monteleone, Zoe Morris, Aalia Nasser, Shanelka Perera, Chloe Proud, Stefania Saliba, Evelyn Shanley, Isabella Smith, Lucy Spisiak, Layla Starr and Jorja Tabor.

We also congratulate the following Year 11 (2023) students who studied the accelerated Studies of Religion II (SORII) course and who are named in the Premier's Distinguished Achievers List for SORII: Hasrat Bhatthal, Karnvir Kaur and Talyse Pantazakos.

In Visual Arts, Sophie Lear and Lily McElroy were selected and Dianne Faustino, Raphaila Idris and Lucy Spisiak were nominated for the NESA ARTEXPRESS exhibition. ARTEXPRESS recognises student excellence in Visual Arts. CALLBACK is a program of outstanding performances and compositions by students from the HSC Dance examination. Nominations for CALLBACK were Chloe Barnes, Suzie Mammone, Isabella Smith and Autumn Sydir. Ashleigh Thompson was nominated for Drama OnStage Individual Drama Project and Evelyn Shanley was selected. Evelyn Shanley was also selected for the ENCORE music performance at the Opera House.

Evelyn placed second in the state for the Music 1 HSC course demonstrating her exceptional theoretical and practical ability in the HSC music course. As a school community, we are incredibly proud of Evelyn and wish her all the very best in her chosen career pathway in vocal performance in the future. Aalia Nasser nominated for the 2024 Shape Exhibition for Design and Technology.

In 2023, 87 students (62%) of a cohort of 138 intended to follow a university pathway. 130 offers in total were made to Caroline Chisholm College students for 2023 admissions through the UAC rounds. 74% of those students who intended to pursue a university degree received early offers to courses prior to the release of the ATAR results. Nearly 140 early offers (in total) were made to these students. These offers were made based on a variety of factors including Year 11 results, contribution to their local community and their demonstrated leadership.

Caroline Chisholm College is committed to providing the girls in our communi ty with an authentic, contemporary, challenging and supportive learning environment to ensure they achieve their career and life goals. Our students are empowered to be confident, critical and creative thinkers who willingly apply feedback to maximise their learning potential in modern, safe and supportive surroundings.

CAROLINE CHISHOLM COLLEGE IS THE COLLEGE OF CHOICE FOR QU ALITY EDUCATION IN THE PENRITH AND LOWER MOUNTAINS AREA - A PLACE WHERE WOMEN ARE EMPOWERED TO ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS.

1974 - 2024 WW52757

Celebrating our past Empowering our future 90 - 98 The Lakes Drive, Glenmore Park

For enrolments contact Chantal Morris: cmorris12@parra.catholic.edu.au 4737 5561

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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Penrith City Council’s Local Celebration Awards

News Contact Us Administration ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Civic Centre, 601 High Street. ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Queen Street Centre, ʥʣʪʠʥʣʬ ˄˨˘˘ˡ ˆ˧˥˘˘˧ʡ Contact Centre Open ʫʡʦʣ˔ˠʠʧˣˠʡ ˀˢˡʠʹ˥˜ʡ 4732 7777 PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Services Waste Services 4732 7777 Illegal Dumping Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ Freecall 1800 022 182

are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the ˗˘˗˜˖˔˧˘˗ʟ ˦˘˟Є˘˦˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˜˥˔˧˜ˢˡ˔˟ ˣ˘ˢˣ˟˘ ˜ˡ ˢ˨˥ community. NOMINATIONS CLOSE 15 APRIL 2024.

So what are you waiting for?

ˇ˛˘˥˘ ˔˥˘ ˙ˢ˨˥ ˖˔˧˘˚ˢ˥˜˘˦ ˧ˢ ˖˛ˢˢ˦˘ ˙˥ˢˠʭ Citizen of the Year Young Citizen of the Year Mayor’s Local Heroes Award Community Service Award

ʹ˜ˡ˗ ˢ˨˧ ˠˢ˥˘ ˔˧ʭ ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˟ˢ˖˔˟ʠ˖˘˟˘˕˥˔˧˜ˢˡʠ˔˪˔˥˗˦

• The Trustee for Sky Property & Planning Trust

Council Briefs

DA23/0395

Lot 1 DP 620355, 2 Phillip Street, Kingswood

● Penrith’s new City Park is open and we are celebrating with a free garden party on Saturday, 16 March 2024! Join us from ʤʣ˔ˠ ˨ˡ˧˜˟ ʦˣˠ ˙ˢ˥ ˔ˡ ˘˫˖˜˧˜ˡ˚ ˗˔ˬ Ѓ˟˟˘˗ ˪˜˧˛ ˙˔ˠ˜˟ˬʠ˙˥˜˘ˡ˗˟ˬ activities, an art workshop, music, food trucks, and more.

Spin our prize wheel for the chance to win one of 80 x $25 gift vouchers to use at a local participating business. City Park is located on the corner of Henry Street and Station Street in Penrith CBD. Find out more at penrith.city/cityparkevent The City Park project was funded by Council and the NSW Government through the Public Spaces Legacy Program and Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program. ● Are you a creative looking for some tips and tricks on how to manage your website? Join us and Creative Plus Business for a great evening at Creatives’ Guide to Websites on Wednesday, 6 March from 5–8pm at the Borland Lounge at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre.

You’ll learn the best ways for creatives to present their websites ˪˜˧˛ ˥˘˔˟ʠ˟˜˙˘ ˘˫˔ˠˣ˟˘˦ ˢ˙ ˕˘˦˧ ˣ˥˔˖˧˜˖˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˛˘˟ˣ˙˨˟ ˥˘˦ˢ˨˥˖˘˦ʡ Register at penrith.city/events ● ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˜˦ ˣ˥˘ˣ˔˥˜ˡ˚ ˧˪ˢ ˡ˘˪ Єˢˢ˗ ˦˧˨˗˜˘˦ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˛˘ ʵ˟˔˖˞˪˘˟˟ Creek, and Upper Byrne Creek catchments. We are inviting people with property in the catchments to share their local ˞ˡˢ˪˟˘˗˚˘ ˜ˡ ˢ˨˥ ˤ˨˘˦˧˜ˢˡˡ˔˜˥˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˛˘˟ˣ ˢ˨˥ ʶ˜˧ˬ ˧ˢ ˕˘ Єˢˢ˗ ready in the future.

Deadline for submissions is 5pm, Monday, 11 March 2024.

Visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/BlackwellCreekFS and yoursaypenrith.com.au/UpperbyrnesFS

Alterations and additions to create an outdoor children’s play area • David D’Ettorre

DA23/1077

Lot 6 DP 239638, 17 Avoca Avenue, Emu Plains Additions and alterations to the existing dwelling and an attached carport • Kurmond Homes Pty Ltd

Mod24/0008

Lot 4007 DP 260391, 61 Greenbank Drive, Werrington Downs ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʧʡʨʨʛʤʴʜ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ʷʴʥʥʢʣʬʩʦ ˧ˢ ˔ˠ˘ˡ˗ ˧˛˘ Landscape Plan • Proust & Gardner Consulting Pty Ltd

Mod23/0242

Lot 12 DP 27107, 312–316 Caddens Road, Claremont Meadows ˀˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ˔ˡ ʼˡ˧˘˚˥˔˧˘˗ ʻˢ˨˦˜ˡ˚ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˔ˣˣ˥ˢ˩˘˗ through DA22/1206 to remove Deferred Commencement Conditions and insert Operational Conditions • Fowler Homes

DA23/1080

Lot 122A DP 2147, 122a Fifth Avenue, Llandilo Construction of a single storey dwelling including an OSSM System • Kaveen Wickremaratchy

DA24/0010

Lot 1 DP 830770, Lot 1 Power Street, St Marys ʷ˘ˠˢ˟˜˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˔˟˟ ˔˕ˢ˩˘ʠ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ ˦˧˥˨˖˧˨˥˘˦ ˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ service station • George Tamer

DA23/0938

Lot 12 DP 818741, Buring Cottage, 3A Leonay Parade, Leonay Alterations to the existing dwelling (Leo Buring Cottage) including pergola, solar panels and swimming pool • Andrew Murphy

DA24/0007

Lot 75 DP 240978, 42 Yodalla Avenue Emu Plains

Meeting Dates 26 February 2024 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via penrith.city

penrith.city.council

Development Consent/s Determined

Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling

Refused Development Applications

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 • Tlc Property Holdings Pty Ltd

DA23/0344

penrithcouncil

Lot 9 DP 23989, 304–306 Nutt Road, Londonderry

penrithcitycouncil

Use of existing dwelling as detached dual occupancy and ˢˡʠ˦˜˧˘ ˊ˔˦˧˘ ˊ˔˧˘˥ ˀ˔ˡ˔˚˘ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˆˬ˦˧˘ˠ

penrithcitycouncil

• Harsiddhi Trading Pty Ltd

DA23/0985

penrith.city

Lot 1 SP 22270, Lot 2 SP 22270 and SP 22270, 10 Forthorn Place, North St Marys

visitpenrith.com.au

ʶ˛˔ˡ˚˘ ˢ˙ ˨˦˘ ˔ˡ˗ Ѓ˧ˢ˨˧ ˢ˙ ˔ ˩˘˛˜˖˟˘ ˥˘ˣ˔˜˥ ˦˧˔˧˜ˢˡ • The Trustee for Legpro Orchard Hills Unit Trust

DA23/0859

Lot 1 DP 239091, 126–164 Castle Road, Orchard Hills Integrated Development to Torrens title subdivide 1 lot (Paper Subdivision) into 2 lots

• Carmine Alvaro

DA23/0860

Lot 565 DP 250155, 6 Cleeve Place, Cambridge Gardens Demolition of existing shed and awning and construction of secondary dwelling including, landscaping and associated drainage works • Fernleigh Drafting

DA23/0800

Lot 1 DP 221078, 84 Reid Street, Werrington Shed Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥˦ ˢ˙ Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

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

penrith.city WW53260

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

$80 million tradie boost Impressive new TAFE facility appeals to next generation of construction workers EMILY CHATE

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new $80 million building focused on the next generation of tradies has opened at TAFE’s Kingswood campus.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, cut the ribbon for the new Institute of Applied Technology for Construction on Tuesday.

The Institute of Applied Technology for Construction facilitates a range of new skills for apprentices to utilise including a full civil construction sandpit, large practical workshop spaces, and classrooms.

Up-skilling and credential training are another aspect the Institute offers with programs ranging from project management, cost management, and risk management to administrative roles.

Whan highlighted the importance of facilities like these in the face of the trade shortage.

“We need tens of thousands of more tradies over the next few years, even just to replace the people that retire, let alone boost up to increase the supply of housing and those infrastructure projects,” he said.

More centres like the Institute of Applied Technology for Construction are planned in the future with Whan confirming the success of the model.

“We are getting cooperation from universities and industry to actually design flexible courses

like micro skills and things that can help people to skill up. It is a model that is likely to be used again,” he said.

The Institute was the product of a partnership between TAFE NSW, CPB Contractors, and Western Sydney University.

Vice Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University, Barney Glover, emphasised the importance of the credential and skill programs being offered.

“The key to these centres of excellence that the State Government is putting together in advance manufacturing and IAT’s is all about co-designing,” Glover said.

“These courses, the micro skills, and the micro credentials are the future, so we can ensure that young people coming into apprenticeships and these industries can be equipped quickly for the jobs and not in fact be delayed or have difficulty getting access to the right source of training.”

CPB General Manager of NSW & ACT Infrastructure, Rob Monaci, shared the hope for more diverse people entering the programs.

“We all know we need more skilled people in our industry, and the construction industry is booming… we need to attract more females and Indigenous people into the industry, and re-skill people which is what the IATC is all about,” he said.

The Institute is now open and fully operational for all to learn a trade or up-skill in their current role.

Barney Glover, Janet Schoner, Steve Whan and Rob Monaci cut the ribbon on the new Institute of Applied Technology for Construction at Kingswood on Tuesday morning.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Public Notice Proposed amendments to the Orchard Hills North, Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 chapters of Penrith DCP 2014 Council invites you to review and provide feedback on proposed amendments to the Orchard Hills North, Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 chapters of the Penrith Development Control Plan 2014 (DCP 2014).

Council at its Ordinary Meeting of Monday, 11 December 2023 resolved to publicly exhibit the above proposed amendments to DCP 2014.

Key changes to the Orchard Hills North DCP chapter include making minor ˖˛˔ˡ˚˘˦ ˪˛˜˖˛ ˥˘Є˘˖˧ ˧˛˘ ˔˦˦ˢ˖˜˔˧˘˗ Ѓˡ˔˟ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˃˥ˢˣˢ˦˔˟ʟ ˔˗˗˥˘˦˦˜ˡ˚ ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˧˜ˡ˚ ˠ˔˧˧˘˥˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˔˗˗˥˘˦˦˜ˡ˚ ˢ˧˛˘˥ ˗˜˦˖˥˘ˣ˔ˡ˖˜˘˦ ˜˗˘ˡ˧˜Ѓ˘˗ʡ Key updates to the Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 DCP chapters include the addition of a development staging section, ˨ˣ˗˔˧˘˗ Ѓ˚˨˥˘˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˠ˜ˡˢ˥ ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˧˜ˡ˚ ˠ˔˧˧˘˥˦ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˣ˥ˢˣˢ˦˘˗ ˖˛˔ˡ˚˘˦ are administrative in nature and do not introduce or amend any existing policy positions in either DCP chapter.

Following the public exhibition, the outcomes of the exhibition will be reported ˧ˢ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˙ˢ˥ ˖ˢˡ˦˜˗˘˥˔˧˜ˢˡʡ ˇ˛˘ ˣ˥ˢˣˢ˦˘˗ ˔ˠ˘ˡ˗ˠ˘ˡ˧˦ ˧ˢ ʷʶ˃ ʥʣʤʧ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˢˡ ˣ˨˕˟˜˖ ˘˫˛˜˕˜˧˜ˢˡ ˨ˡ˧˜˟ ˀˢˡ˗˔ˬʟ ʥʩ ʹ˘˕˥˨˔˥ˬ ʥʣʥʧʡ ˇ˛˘ ˘˫˛˜˕˜˧˜ˢˡ ˠ˔˧˘˥˜˔˟ ˠ˔ˬ be viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au and at Council’s Civic Centre.

You are invited to provide feedback on the proposed changes by making a written submission to Council by Monday, 26 February 2024 by: • Email: city.planning@penrith.city • Post: ˇ˛˘ ʺ˘ˡ˘˥˔˟ ˀ˔ˡ˔˚˘˥ (Attention City Planning) Penrith City Council PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE X-RAY • ULTRASOUND • CT DEXA • INTERVENTIONAL

• In person: Council’s Civic Centre Please include a subject line indicating ‘Proposed amendment to the Orchard Hills North, Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 chapters of Penrith DCP 2014’.

.DWRRPED 'LDJQRVWLF ,PDJLQJ RƩHUV ZDON LQ VDPH DQG QH[W GD\ DSSRLQWPHQWV DQG EXON ELOOLQJ IRU PRVW VHUYLFHV

penrith.city

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

WW53179

For further enquiries: Please contact Owen Lay, Planner on 4732 7612.

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PAGE TEN

Joke of the Week

Q: Why did the vampire bite Taylor Swift?

A: Because she had bad blood.

Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

F

prize cupboard

or more than a century, Lucas’ Papaw Ointment has been a staple in the lives of resilient Australians, offering the benefits of all-natural fermented papaw fruit with its inherent antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.

This versatile ointment has been a trusted remedy for a multitude of everyday ailments, ranging from chafing and sunburn to insect bites and dry, chapped lips.

Lucas’ Papaw Ointment is not only known for effectively alleviating discomfort but is also gentle enough for use on the delicate skin of

newborns, making it the perfect product suitable for all ages.

Available from all major chemists and retailers nationwide, including supermarkets.

The Weekender has four Papaw prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Papaw’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, March 1 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

lucky paceway winners

Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender.

Club members can pick up a free specially numbered

I SPY

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

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

way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0542, 0672, 0836.

Dose of Dorin

Do you know where this picture was taken?

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

Entries close each Wednesday at 5pm.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The tree with the gold plaque embedded into its trunk is located outside the new Laughin’ Boy cafe near the Nepean River in Emu Plains.

Connect with us online...

10

The lack of promotion for the World Club Challenge this weekend really stinks. We get that the NRL and the broadcasters are excited about Vegas, but how about some love?

westernweekender.com.au facebook.com/westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

@wwpenrith @westernweekender

The joy Taylor Swift is bringing to so many in Sydney this week is just so wonderful to see. The concerts at Accor Stadium will be remembered for decades to come.

@westernweekender @westernweekender

LOCAL NEWS

Asbestos found at local school

NEPEAN ART SOCIETY INC. ART EXHIBITION AND SALE

TROY DODDS

B

onded asbestos has been found in mulch at Penrith Christian School as the saga gripping the state extends to dozens more sites.

The school at Orchard Hills remains open and removal of the mulch was being arranged this week. Any risk to students or staff is considered very low.

There’s now around 50 sites across New South Wales where asbestos has been detected in mulch. That includes mulch at Regatta Park in Emu Plains, which was detected last month.

The saga has now become a political headache for the State Government as it tries to get on top of further sites and investigate how the affected mulch is so widespread and where the supply chain broke down.

Speaking at Budget Estimates on Tuesday, Deputy Premier and Education Minister Prue Car conceded while bonded asbestos is low risk, it is still a cause for concern.

“It’s low risk when it’s bonded but of course if it becomes anything that’s not bonded it becomes of great concern, that is why we are removing it,” she said.

“We are working overtime literally to identify the sites in question.”

Car and her Education Ministry predecessor, Nationals MLC Sarah Mitchell, became involved in a heated debate at one point, after Mitchell pushed Car on details around the asbestos issues at Liverpool West Public School, which has been closed, and what was being done to avoid further issues in the future.

“I’m not interested in, as you are, going down a rabbit hole to scare parents,” Car declared.

“This is actually getting absolutely ridiculous.”

Mitchell asked Car if there would be changes moving forward in terms of how suppliers worked with schools.

“We will be going through each and every one of our suppliers,” Car said.

“The safety of our children is our number one priority.”

Car accused Mitchell of “looking for headlines” in her questioning.

Last week, the State Government launched an Asbestos Taskforce to give more resources and support to the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s investigation into asbestos in mulch.

FREE ENTRY Fine art for your walls Smaller artwork, Gift ideas, Greeting cards Raffle Prize Parrot Tulip by Carol McCabe Glenbrook Community Hall Corner Ross Street and Great Western Highway, Glenbrook www.nepeanartsociety.wildapricot.org www.facebook.com/nepeanartsociety

WW53225

Penrith Christian School at Orchard Hills. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Friday 23 February, 1 to 4pm Saturday 24 February, 9 to 4pm Sunday 25 February, 9 to 3.30pm

Education Minister Prue Car speaking at Budget Estimates on Tuesday.

Alarm sounded on small clock inside their body,” the product recall notice states.

“Consumers should immediately stop using the product and keep it out of reach of children.

“Consumers should return the product to the place of purchase to receive a full refund.”

The product was available at Timezone in Penrith, Zone Bowling in Penrith, Ronis in Penrith, Mediadvice Pharmacy in Glenmore Park and hundreds of other

retailers across the country.

The product code WT-WS/ AC is located on the back of the packaging for the impacted product.

WW52816

A

toy alarm clock that was sold at a number of outlets in Penrith is being recalled over a button battery concern.

The “World’s Smallest Alarm Clock”, available in both red and black colours, does not comply with the mandatory standards for products containing button/coin batteries.

“There is a risk of choking or serious injury if young children gain access to the button/coin batteries and swallow or place them

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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Taylor time! Swiftmania We meet some of Taylor Swift’s biggest local fans as unprecedented excitement CASSIDY PEARCE

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he concert that everyone’s been talking about has finally made its way to Sydney, with Swifties from all over the world gearing up for the next four nights of The Eras Tour at Accor Stadium. And some of Taylor Swift’s biggest fans are right here in Penrith.

Glenmore Park local Emily Catt has been a Taylor Swift fan since she was six, and has attended every tour since ‘Speak Now’.

Though being able to say your idol knows your name seems like a pipe dream for even the most dedicated fans, Catt can’t relate, with Swift herself interacting with a number of posts on a fan page she’s run since she was in Year 8 at school.

“It made my life, it was crazy to think she knew who I was,” she said.

Catt’s fan page @imreadyforittay is followed by Swift’s management team Taylor Nation, along with over 59,000 other Swifties on Instagram.

After attending shows in Melbourne with her younger sister Hayley, the duo will be

Taylor Swift fans Desiree Robinson, Winny Tang, Hayley Catt and Emily Catt check out their friendship bracelets. Photo: Melinda Jane.

backing it up in Sydney in hopes of hearing their dream surprise songs, ‘Today Was a Fairytale’ and ‘Sparks Fly’.

31-year-old Winny Tang is sharing those high hopes, having performed ‘Sparks Fly’ whilst doing cheerleading stunts with her then-boyfriend on ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ back in 2013, then walking down the aisle to ‘Today Was a Fairytale’ years later when she married him.

Up until she passed, Tang attended Swift’s concerts with her mum, giving an even more special meaning to her music.

“Every time I do go to one of

Ava Rama will be seeing Swift for the first time. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Taylor’s concerts, I do think about my mum, because she was there for my very first one,” she said.

This time around, Tang will be attending with her brother, who loves Swift just as much as she does.

Tang’s sister-in-law Desiree Robinson will also be attending, marking her first Taylor Swift concert ever.

“I’m just waiting for that initial moment when she comes out, I feel like tears will flow!” she said.

The Eras Tour will also be St Marys super fan Te Buda’s first Taylor Swift concert. She’ll be attending Friday’s show with her 13-year-old sister Annelise and their mum, but with

Taylor Swift fan Annelise Buda with sister Te. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Annelise requiring accessible tickets, scoring them was no easy feat.

According to Te, after missing out on tickets in the original sales, they had to wait three weeks for a representative from Ticketek to call them to let them know they would be attending, ultimately filling the trio with happiness and relief.

“I promised [Annelise] that I would take her to see Taylor Swift, and then the fact that I couldn’t was really sad,” she said.

“Then, that call back was such a relief.”

Annelise will be wearing a ‘1989’-inspired outfit, and Te a ‘Reputation’ bodysuit replica, made by local business Sew Wilde Creations.

Kingswood local Charlotte Hensen will also be wearing a replica outfit, however she took the creation of it into her own hands.

Hensen has been a fan of Swift’s for over a decade thanks to her mum, who took her to CMC Rocks the Snowys in 2009. With no real sewing experience behind her, she started making replica outfits in 2012, inspired by her love of the iconic purple dress from the ‘Speak Now’ tour.

“I saw it in photos that other people were sharing on Taylor Connect.

She had these gorgeous white lace gloves, and she had her hair curled and pulled back into a ponytail, and I just thought, ‘I need that dress’,” she said.

“Me, my mum and my nan got together and hand sewed the dress, and that was the start of everything.”

Hensen has worn a handmade replica outfit for every tour since,

sweeps Sydney builds ahead of four concerts at Accor Stadium naming ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘Don’t Blame Me’ as her favourite songs.

She’ll be donning a ‘Speak Now’-inspired outfit, which happens to also be her favourite colour, when she heads to Accor Stadium this Friday with her mum, complete with friendship bracelets made with the help of her brother’s girlfriend.

H a v i n g received her tickets for Christmas, Ava said she can’t wait for the show.

“I’m really excited to sing the songs and to see Taylor,” Emily Catt is ready for Taylor Swift this weekend. she said.

WW52771

Charlotte Hensen getting creative ahead of the Taylor Swift shows.

her collection including everything from the rip apart marching band ensemble from the ‘Fearless’ tour to the iconic green ‘Reputation’ tour jacket.

After attending all three Melbourne shows last weekend, which saw her score her dream surprise song in ‘Come Back...

Be Here’, she’ll also be attending Monday’s Sydney show.

As a veteran Swiftie, Hensen said she’s loving seeing people start to make and wear replica outfits for The Eras Tour, and fall in love with Swift the way she did all those years ago.

“The community has been stronger than ever this tour, and it’s just been absolutely incredible to see it go from what it was back at the start of her career to what it’s grown to now,” she said.

“Seeing the younger generations of fans at the shows on the weekend also got me a bit emotional, because that was me 14 or 15 years ago!”

One ‘Baby Swiftie’ who will be attending The Eras Tour this weekend is eight-year-old Ava Rama.

According to Ava, she’s been a Swiftie for two-and-a-half-years,

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

13

They’re ready for it Accor Stadium prepares for influx of Swifties across four days ELLIE BUSBY

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Accor Stadium staff are putting the final touches on the venue for the concerts this weekend.

every night here for four nights, so 320,000 people actually over the time of the concerts.

“35 per cent of the attendees will be coming from interstate and internationally, that will obviously drive significant expenditure for New South Wales, in fact the economic impact of these four major concerts will be nearly $80 million.”

But welcoming the world’s biggest

pop star to our shores also comes with months of hard work and preparation – something Venues NSW Group General Manager, Event Operations, Ben Raggatt knows all too well. “[There’s] plenty of work to be done, we’re expecting 60-odd trucks to arrive as part of Taylor Swift’s entourage,” he added.

“Nearly 1000 staff are responsible

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for the delivery of the stage to that point.

“Even with the concert acts of Ed [Sheeran] and Harry Styles earlier in the year, this is significantly bigger than what we’ve seen from both those artists.”

From friendship bracelets to lavender-themed drinks, Accor Stadium is excited to bring fans’ wildest dreams to life, promising

plenty of treats will be available at the venue.

“We’re super excited to see Taylor in the building so we’ve curated a great offering, in the northern end of the building we’ve actually got a Lavender Lane blowout so a little bit of extra food and beverage that’s not on offer day-to-day here at Accor,” Gema Group Chief Operating Officer, Dwane Goodman said.

“This event in terms of the catering perspective will be essentially four grand finals one after another.”

The concerts will also be a huge boon to surrounding hotels, with many having already switched out its elevator music in favour of Swift’s tunes.

“This is a true love story for hotels right across the city, this is going to be the biggest event for our hotels since the Sydney Olympics in 2000,” Accor Chief Operating Officer, Adrian Williams said.

“Events like this at Accor Stadium support jobs and investment in hotels right across the city.”

1300 559 477

WW53288

aylor Swift’s Eras Tour has been described as the biggest event to come to Australia since the 2000 Olympics, and now it’s finally arrived at Sydney Olympic Park – Swifties, are you ready for it?

It’s been a long, cruel summer of waiting, but fans can breathe a sigh of relief when Swift takes to the stage at Accor Stadium this Friday for the first of her four back-to-back concerts.

Nearly 80,000 fans will descend on the stadium each night for the sold-out concerts, adding up to a whopping number of 320,000 Swifties heading to Sydney Olympic Park across the four days.

Kerrie Mather, Venues NSW and Accor Stadium CEO, said the four concerts will have a huge impact on the New South Wales economy.

“It’s just going to be amazing, everybody’s excited about it, we’re excited because of the economic impact, the jobs that will actually come from that many events,” she said.

“We’ll have nearly 80,000 people

WW52907

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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LOCAL NEWS

Health boost for west New centre answers demand for more dialysis services

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brand new B. Braun Renal Care Centre has opened within Nepean Private Hospital, providing relief for patients in the local community.

The centre is B. Braun’s eighth in Australia, fourth in New South Wales, and second in collaboration with Healthscope, which runs Nepean Private Hospital.

“This is a collaborative effort with Healthscope, and it’s something that was in the pipeline for quite some time, and it’s wonderful to see it come to fruition,” said Russ Hoskins, Director, Ambulatory Sales Channel – Provider Business at B. Braun.

“In its simplest form, this is a place for healing, where we come to share our expertise, and to create an environment which promotes health and wellbeing.”

According to Hoskins, these centres are vital in Australia, and particularly in western Sydney.

“The demand for dialysis services

is absolutely surging across Australia. It’s growing at an annual compound rate of eight per cent, and accounts for 17 per cent of all hospital admissions. That’s more than any other cause, so there is a very strong demand for this type of service,” he said.

The addition of the centre is not only a beneficial part of the private hospital, but also complements the services provided by the neighbouring public hospital, said Jay Jiang, General Manager of Nepean Private Hospital.

“I think this is a perfect example of us working together to create a facility that is going to be world class, and is going to be off the back of the private hospital, but also the public hospital,” he said.

“I’ve come from [working in] the public sector for about 15 years, and I know the public sector can’t deal with the volume that’s required from our community, especially in the dialysis space. I think these are the centres that we need to continue to push, because without this, patients won’t have care close

Melissa McIntosh and Christian Gabriel cutting the ribbon to the new centre. Photo: Melinda Jane.

to where they live, and I think that is the most important part of this partnership.”

The centre was officially opened

by Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, on Wednesday, February 21, who said she was honoured to be there given

Chris Rogacion, Russ Hoskins, Melissa McIntosh, Christian Gabriel, Aysel Ozdemir and Jay Jiang.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

McIntosh said she was ecstatic to have something of its stature in Penrith.

“I wish we didn’t need this centre, I wish we were tackling the cause of major health conditions in this country, but we are so blessed that we do have this here because it is greatly needed,” she said.

One of the highlights of the centre is their 16 dialysis chairs, making it one of the largest and most advanced private dialysis centres in Sydney.

Russ Hosking speaks at the opening on Wednesday afternoon.

slushandtunes.com.au

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the multitude of hats she wears, including being Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Health, Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of MedTech, and mother of a son with Type 1 diabetes.

“Every night, I think, ‘I really hope that in the future, he doesn’t have chronic disease because of his Type 1’, and we are managing that so hard to make sure he stays healthy for the rest of his life, and he can live to 100 and do everything he wants to do,” she said.

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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LOCAL NEWS

Here’s the scoop: New owners to take over Penrith ice cream shop CASSIDY PEARCE

A

fter announcing at the beginning of the year that they might be closing for good, Cookies Ice Creamery has officially been saved, with new owners Anthony and Ashlee Ginger taking the reins in March.

According to Melissa and Guy Cook, who opened the Henry Street store back in 2021, the decision to sell Cookies came down to the fact they simply couldn’t juggle it along with their young children and other commitments.

“It was a hard decision, because we love this,” Guy said.

“The sweat and the tears that we’ve put into this has been absolutely amazing, and the community has been phenomenal.”

After posting the announcement on Facebook on January 2, Melissa recalled an overwhelmingly supportive response, despite some sadness that Penrith locals may be losing their regular ice creamery.

“I had a customer come in and he put his head down and said, ‘I’m just taking a moment of silence, because

New owners Anthony and Ashlee Ginger with original owners Melissa and Guy Cook. Photo: Cassidy Pearce.

I just read the post’,” she said.

But, the door was always left open for potential buyers, and it seems that the perfect people have come along in the form of Gingers.

According to Ashlee, the South Penrith family has always wanted to buy a business, but a personal

connection to Cookies let her know it was meant to be.

“We’ve been looking at purchasing a business for a while, and then we’d seen an ice creamery for sale on the business pages,” Ashlee said.

“Two days later, my daughter sent me a screenshot of [Cookies’]

Facebook post saying that they were closing down or selling, along with a message saying, ‘My life is over’.

“We’d been holding out until something piqued our interest – nothing did until this.”

According to both couples, their first meeting felt like fate.

With big goals in mind for the Cooks before they had to make the decision to sell, Ashlee said they’ll be doing everything they can to fulfil those and more.

“We love it, we want to keep it, we just want to basically grow the business,” Ashlee said.

“Eventually down the track we’d think about franchising, but we’re not in a rush to get there straight away. Where they left off is where we’re picking up from.”

But, Anthony assured it’ll still be the same ice cream you know and love, with the same name.

“Everyone loves this place, they all come here for ice cream and all that sort of stuff, so we don’t plan on changing any of that at all!”

Anthony said.

Guy and Melissa assured they won’t be strangers after the handover.

“I definitely think that we’ll be the number one customers,” Guy said.

“Our kids are so used to this anyway – but, we’ve already prefaced with them that when we come to the shop once we’ve sold it, they’re not allowed to go behind the counter!”

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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118 Annual th

Luddenham Show THE COUNTRY SHOW IS BACK

MARCH 2&3

★ Woodchopping ★ Bull ride ★ Demolition derby ★ Trackskill V8 Ute Show ★ Dog high jump

★ Fireworks ★ Live music ★ Poultry, cattle and horse competitions ★ Animal nursery

Get involved by entering the ice cream eating competition, Lego master crafters competition or our arts, craft and horticulture pavilion.

A range of entertainment for the whole family

www.luddenhamshow.com.au Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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Check out www.luddenhamshow.com.au or follow us on Facebook or Instagram for more information.

Luddenham Showground, corner of Park Rd and Campbell St, Luddenham

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LOCAL NEWS

Meet Shady, the dog nobody wants CASSIDY PEARCE

W

hen you think about getting a new dog, you would certainly have a specific image in mind – most likely a puppy with enough energy to keep you running around at the park for hours.

But, would you consider a dog that’s a few years older?

According to Animal Welfare League NSW Engagement Coordinator Alyssa McDougall, their Kemps Creek shelter is consistently quite full, with anywhere between 100 to 150 cats and close to 100 dogs at any given moment.

Though some get scooped up fairly quickly, others remain there for months, or even years, with McDougall saying breed is a significant factor. But, the even more prominent reason is a dog’s age.

“We find that puppies go fairly quickly, whereas the older dogs tend to stay for quite a while,” she said.

“We’re really lucky that we will keep dogs for as long as they need to stay here, in the sense that if they don’t find their forever home for a year or two years, we will keep the kennel space for them until they find their home.”

Dalmatian Cross Shady is eight-years-old and is one example of a long-term resident who hasn’t had much luck at the shelter.

“He’s been here for a couple of months now, and has unfortunately no interest whatsoever,

and I would say it’s because of his age,” she said.

“He’s such a lovely dog. He’s obviously gorgeous, and he’s still got that energy and a lot of life to him.”

It’s because of this that McDougall is encouraging incoming pet owners not to overlook older dogs.

“People tend to like the cuteness of puppies and the energy of puppies, whereas I find that older dogs have a lot more character, and they’re great companions,” she said.

“Obviously their life span is going to be a little bit shorter than the younger dogs, but it just makes it so much more special to have them in the home.”

For some, older dogs may even be a better option.

“I believe older dogs are great for anyone, but ideally someone who’s going to be able to spend a lot of time with them is really good,” she said.

“They don’t often need to be exercised as much as a puppy or a younger dog, so potentially someone older, but they’re great for everyone.”

McDougall said that adoption is always the right answer, with plenty of animals in need of a forever home.

“Not only are all shelters quite full, but they’re full with these amazing dogs with amazing personalities that have so much life and love to give,” she said.

Alyssa McDougall and Shady. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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

Local Celebration Awards

SUNDAY

Know someone who is making a difference in our community?

Have you got a friend or colleague who works tirelessly for the benefit of others, or dedicates their time to making Penrith City a better place for us all?

The Local Celebration Awards recognise unsung local heroes, people who dedicate their time to supporting others, building community and improving quality of life in our City. We all have people in our lives who we admire for their selflessness – now is the time to shine a light on their contributions!

Nominations for the 2024 Local Celebration Awards are now open.

There are four award categories: Citizen of the Year (for people over 18), Young Citizen of the Year (for ages 24 years and under), the Mayor’s Local Heroes Award (all ages) and the Making a Difference – Community Service Award (all ages).

Nominations can be submitted in person, online, via mail or by video – but be quick, as you only have until April 15, 2024!

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Further details on the award categories, selection criteria and nomination process are available on our website.

This year’s winners will be announced at Council’s Ordinary Meeting in June 2024 and formally recognised in a Civic Reception in July.

We all know someone who goes above and beyond to improve the lives of others – this is your opportunity to recognise them with an accolade they would never seek out, but certainly deserve.

I encourage everyone to take a moment to consider who in our community might fit the bill. Nominating is a quick and easy process which can be done by mail, online or even in a video message.

The Local Celebration Awards are a rare opportunity to acknowledge work in our community that might not be widely known about but is incredibly valuable.

Find out more at penrith.city/local-celebration-awards.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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

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

LOCAL NEWS

Family legacies continue In their fathers’ footsteps: Famous surnames start work at Nepean Hospital CASSIDY PEARCE

A

second generation of medical professionals is joining the ranks at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, with three of the 70 new junior doctors who have just been welcomed to the District boasting strong family ties to Nepean Hospital.

Medical interns Dr Anastasia Teece, Dr Stephanie Sardinha and Dr Alex Pardey may not be familiar faces just yet, but they certainly have familiar names, with each following in their footsteps of their fathers, who are well regarded medical professionals from within the Nepean Hospital family.

For Teece, whose father Andrew Teece is a former chief radiographer at Nepean Hospital, beginning her career at Nepean Hospital was a no-brainer – thanks to some advice that came from particularly close to home.

“Nepean Hospital is ultimately where I wanted to end up working,” she said.

“I’d spoken to doctors from other hospitals as well as my dad and they

all advised me to look at Nepean.”

Though her last name does add some extra pressure, Teece said she’s feeling excited and motivated to add to her family’s legacy.

“I think it’s really cool that I’m where my dad was,” she said.

“I like feeling that I am building upon what he contributed to.”

Sardinha, whose father is Nepean Hospital geriatrician Dr Luis Sardinha, shared the sentiment.

“The recognition of my family connection makes me hopeful that I can live up to the name and do as good a job as my dad did,” she said.

However, for Sardinha, it was the District’s excellent reputation that helped her most with her decision.

“I had heard lots of positive things about the culture, which was important to me. I’d also heard about the Basic Physician Training program, the support that’s given to junior medical officers, the quality of teaching sessions and the friendliness and approachability of consultants,” she said.

“It can be a difficult job to do when you’re fresh out of medical school, so hearing that the doctors above you are very supportive was a big reason I wanted to come here.

Knowing that there’ll be a lot of supervision and guidance when you’re first starting on the job is so important.”

For daughter of retired Nepean Hospital obstetrician Associate Professor John Pardey, Alex Pardy, the positive workforce culture encouraged her to choose Nepean Hospital.

“After moving away from Penrith, I returned to the area during medical school and had an incredible time.

The people here were so lovely.

Everyone was keen to teach and I just fell back in love with the community. All the staff were delightful and so nice to me, so I had a really good time and when it came time to choose, I put Nepean first,” she Dr Anastasia Teece, Dr Stephanie Sardinha, and Dr Alex Pardey. said.

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

21

LOCAL NEWS

Roll up, roll up – it’s show time!

Fundraiser to support Xaviah CASSIDY PEARCE

J

amisontown business A H Glass Fencing is currently putting an online raffle together for Xaviah Stimpson, marking their third fundraising effort for the little boy and his family.

Since the passing of his brother three years ago, owner Alan Hagarty said he’s been driven to give back to the local community.

He first met eight-yearold Xaviah last year, after finding out his brain cancer had metastasised in his spine and he was transferred to palliative care, and his school, Oxley Park Public School, held an outdoor cinema and night markets to raise funds for his family.

In an effort to help, he sent his business ambassador, Harries from ‘Bondi Rescue’, down to the school to raffle off a Bondi Rescue shirt, raising $13,500 for the family. In December, he put a pair of James Fisher-Harris’ boots to a silent auction, garnering another $5 000.

Now, he’s taking things to the next level, running an online raffle with over $20,000 in prizes to be won.

The true ‘country show’ is back next weekend at Luddenham.

CASSIDY PEARCE

T

he Luddenham Annual Show is back for its 118th year on Saturday, March 2 and Sunday, March 3, with plenty to do and see for the whole family.

Despite shifts happening in and around the area, including the incoming Western Sydney International Airport, Wayne Willmington from Luddenham Show Society said the country show hasn’t changed a bit.

“Luddenham Show is the original country show,” he said.

“It’s all about family entertainment, and bringing the country to the city.”

Across the two days, there will be endless amounts of entertainment, including the cattle show, the dog high jump, live reptiles show and line dancing. But, Willmington said there are a few key highlights.

“It’s probably going to be one of the biggest

bull rides held outside of Sydney – it’ll be a massive bull ride where we’ve got about 60 competitors,” he said.

“Our V8 utes will put on a marvellous demonstration, plus we’ve got all the other things like the animals, cow milking, and of course, all the pavilions.”

With tickets on sale now, Willmington said he can’t wait to see the local community come down, not just for their own fun, but to secure the future of the Show.

“During COVID, we did it a bit tough because we are not funded by any government – the Society own their ground freehold, so we depend on shows and events to get our income,” he said.

Luddenham Annual Show will be on at Luddenham Showground on Saturday, March 2 and Sunday, March 3. Tickets are $10 for children and $15 for adults, with additional options for families. For more information, visit luddenhamshow.com.au.

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“I’ve got everything from solar systems, to Panthers jerseys, to photo shoots, to Emu Hall and The Bunker vouchers,” he said.

Though he said this has taken plenty of effort behind the scenes, Hagarty said it will all be worth it to raise what he hopes will push $50,000, adding it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the community.

“It’s taken months to put this thing together,” Hagarty said.

“I was walking up and down Batt Street just asking businesses!”

Though tickets aren’t available for purchase quite yet, Hagarty is encouraging everyone to keep an eye out on the A H Glass Fencing Facebook page and Instagram, @ahglassfencing, for more details.

Karen’s Comment The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

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In a significant move for small businesses, the NSW Government has unveiled the pioneering Charter for Small Business.

With a large portion of Penrith’s local economy being small businesses, this Charter marks a pivotal moment for entrepreneurs across our state.

This ground-breaking initiative empowers small business owners, granting them a seat at the table and a genuine say in shaping government support mechanisms.

The Charter’s core principles underscore a commitment to collaboration and support, recognising the invaluable contribution of small businesses to NSW’s economic and social fabric.

Setting a national precedent, the Charter reflects extensive consultations with industry bodies and community stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the sector’s needs.

Key features of the Charter include enhanced engagement on policy matters, streamlined regulatory processes, and increased procurement from small businesses. It also outlines clear timelines for implementation, emphasising accountability and tangible outcomes.

The Charter’s launch closely follows the

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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MEMBER FOR PENRITH

22

The community is coming together to support Xaviah Stimpson as he battles poor health.

establishment of the Service NSW Business Bureau, reinforcing the government’s dedication to providing tailored support to small businesses.

For further details on the Charter for Small Business and its Action Plan, visit https:// www.nsw.gov.au/charter-for-smallbusiness.

Bus Passenger Forum deemed a success Last week Penrith residents had the opportunity to voice their valuable insights to the Transport Parliamentary Secretary Marjorie O’Neill at the Bus Passenger Forum. Your recommendations will help elevate bus services’ reliability, quality, and effectiveness state-wide. To those who couldn’t attend, your input remains crucial.

Visit www.nsw.gov.au/have-yoursay/ bus-industry-taskforce to complete an online survey or submit feedback. Your contributions will shape the future of bus transportation in NSW, ensuring a commuter-centric approach.

‘Authorised by’ Karen McKeown OAM MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary entitlements’.

Shop 23, 510-534 Ground Floor Tattersalls Centre High St Penrith 2750

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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much to Basil’s frustration.” ‘Faulty Towers The Dining Experience’ will return to Sydney later this year, this time at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel in the CBD. Get your tickets online and get ready for a dining experience like no other!

Δ An incredible combo: Pizza Hut has just unveiled a mouthwatering addition to their menu – the Loaded Cookie with Nutella (pictured below). Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, freshly baked eight-in-one giant vanilla cookie drizzled with the delicious hazelnut spread, Nutella. Locals

Δ No faults here: After catching the ‘Faulty Towers The Dining Experience’ (pictured above) at the Sydney Opera House last weekend, the Weekender’s Nathan Taylor will never be able to dine at a regular restaurant again. “For someone that knew of the iconic BBC television series, but never watched a full episode, I wasn’t sure whether I’d understand the humour or references, but I couldn’t have been more wrong!” Taylor said of the experience. “The three-course meal at the Opera House’s Utzon Room was of the highest quality in

taste and flavour as you’d expect from a world-class venue, but it was the side dishes of Basil, Sybil and Manuel that had me in stitches the whole afternoon – and hungry for more! The way the three actors were able to stay in character the whole time was a joy to watch. It was incredible watching them stick to the script one minute and then work ‘off the cuff’ the next. It’s hard to pick a standout character as all three were so true and authentic to their television counterparts, but I did have a soft spot for Manuel who just couldn’t get anything right

BREKKY WITH WAYNE

AFTERNOONS WITH MADELEINE

can indulge in the new Loaded Cookie with Nutella for only $10.95.

Δ New beer lands: A new beer (pictured left) targeting young Aussies aged 21 to 45 has launched. In response to the evolving preferences in the consumption landscape, Stryda Brewing Co has strategically identified a noticeable shift among younger consumers towards Ready-to-Drink (RTDs) and Seltzers, steering away from traditional beers. Acknowledging this trend, Stryda is seizing the opportunity to pioneer a beer experience finely tuned to meet the demands of today’s younger generation. Stryda’s brewing philosophy revolves around creating beers that are not just easy to enjoy but also exceptionally “sessionable”. The range is curated to suit a spectrum of drinking occasions. From their flagship classic lager at 4.4% to a lower ABV choice, Stryda is committed to delivering an unparalleled drinking experience. Keep an eye out for it! Δ New podcast: Local business leader Gina Field is the latest guest on the Weekender’s On The Record podcast. Visit w w w.w e s t er nw e ek ender.c om . au/podcast or search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts.

DRIVE WITH BONDI

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

TURNING BACK TIME Cox's Cottage was begun around 1810 by William Cox, who would, in 1814, build the first road across the Blue Mountains.

The Cottage is built on land granted to William’s four-and-a-half-year-old son Edward in 1809 by Lieut-Governor Colonel Paterson.

Governor Macquarie re-granted the same land back to Edward in 1810.

Reaching its full completion in 1820, it is one of the earliest timber-framed structures still surviving in Australia.

This photo of the Cottage was taken in the 1980s.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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SPECIAL FEATURE S CH O O L O PEN DAYS 2024

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hoosing where your child should go to school is one of the most difficult decisions you’ll make as a parent.

Private or public? That school or this one? The options and discussions are endless.

Today The Western Week-

ender presents a special feature promoting upcoming Open Days at local schools as parents prepare to make decisions about the 2025 school year and beyond.

It’s an opportunity to see what local schools are having open days and when.

Open days are a great opportunity to walk through a school, get a feel for the atmosphere and the facilities available, speak to educators and hear more about the school.

So take a look at what’s on offer in this special advertising feature...

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

ST HEDWIG RETIREMENT VILLAGE • 1300 191 472 • WWW.STHEDWIGVILLAGE.COM.AU

First class independent living

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t Hedwig Retirement Village is opening this month and the time to live in this beautiful community has arrived!

An exciting retirement awaits you at St Hedwig Retirement Village.

The much-anticipated re-development of the village will deliver Blacktown’s premier independent living apartments.

More than a place for locals, St Hedwig also showcases the benefits of living in Blacktown to new retirees. Surrounded by peaceful, native bushland and located within a short distance to public transport, shopping precincts and medical services, the village provides the convenience of living within a welcoming haven where everything you need is on your doorstep.

Brand new, exceptionally crafted one, two and three bedroom apartments in a range of thoughtful designs and layouts are now available. With prices starting from $475,000* and almost 50 per cent of the apartments already reserved, you will need to act quickly to secure your new home in this unique retirement village.

Beautiful landscaping and premium amenities will ensure that you can enjoy an exceptional

lifestyle in an outstanding location.

But you will also discover that St Hedwig Village provides more than just a brand new apartment, it is truly a welcoming home within the heart of a caring community.

Make a move to a place where nature, convenience and community connect and every detail has been designed for your comfort.

Call 1300 191 472 or visit www. sthedwigvillage.com.au and make

your appointment to tour the village today. *Residents of retirement villages will need to pay monthly recurrent charges during their time at the village. You may have to pay a

departure fee when you leave this village. The advertised starting price ($475,000) is based on the starting price of a one bedroom apartments as at January 2024 and is subject to change.

Beautiful new apartments from $475,000* in the heart of Blacktown at St Hedwig Retirement Village From the moment you walk through the door of your brand new apartment at St Hedwig Retirement Village, you’ll know the meaning of comfort and quality.

Choose from a variety of exceptionally crafted one, two and three bedroom apartments from $475,000*, in vibrant Blacktown, just a short stroll to everything you need.

Live surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy lifestyle and amenities in a welcoming community, where every detail has been designed for your wellbeing.

Come home to St Hedwig Retirement Village and discover the secret to your perfect retirement.

Call 1300 191 472 to arrange an appointment and view our display apartment, or visit sthedwigvillage.com.au to find out more. *Residents of retirement villages will need to pay fortnightly recurrent charges during their time at the village. You may have to pay a departure fee when you leave this village. The advertised starting price ($475,000) is based on the starting price of a one bedroom apartment as at January 2023 and is subject to change.

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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BUSINESS WITH HANNAH STACK WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

How can AI help your small business with customer service challenges?

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mall businesses often find themselves in a tough spot, trying to keep up with customer service standards set by much larger companies.

But there’s a silver lining – Artificial Intelligence (AI) is stepping in to bridge that gap. AI is offering small businesses smart, affordable ways to boost their customer service, ensuring no customer feels left behind. Let’s look into how this is possible!

The AI advantage in customer service AI is not just for tech giants — in fact, it’s increasingly becoming a small business ally.

In a recent article by MYOB, 19 per cent of Australian small businesses now adapt AI to their operations, and another 21 per cent plan to. With this current AI boom among small businesses, here’s how AI can transform your customer service and get ahead in the game: 24/7 customer support with chatbots AI-powered chatbots can handle inquiries any time of the day, ensuring your customers always have support. These virtual assistants can answer FAQs, book appointments, and even handle basic troubleshooting, freeing up your team to tackle more complex issues.

Personalised customer experiences AI can analyse customer data to provide personalised recommendations, offers, and support. This level of personalisation can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Efficient issue resolution

BUSINESS

51008

BOOK NOW

30

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

AI tools can quickly route customer inquiries to the appropriate department or provide your team with the information they need to resolve issues faster. This efficiency reduces wait times and improves the overall customer experience.

Feedback and sentiment analysis AI can sift through customer feedback across various channels to gauge overall satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. This insight is invaluable for continuously refining your customer service strategy.

Cost reduction By automating routine tasks, AI can help reduce operational costs. This efficiency allows small businesses to allocate resources more effectively, investing in growth and innovation.

Customer service AI tools for small businesses Several AI tools are particularly well-suited for small businesses looking to enhance their customer service, such as: Chatbots like Freshchat and HappyFox These platforms offer easy-to-use, no-code chatbot builders that can significantly improve your customer engagement without requiring extensive IT expertise.

Conversational AI tools Solutions like Zoho CRM’s Zia and HubSpot Service Hub offer conversational AI that can perform tasks, provide information, and even make product recommendations based on customer interactions.

Western Weekender

Air Conditioning

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED

FREE QUOTES

www.mjpainting.com.au

• Fast Clean Service • Big Or Small Jobs • Interior & Exterior • Fully Insured • Reliable Service • All Work Done Personally • Decorative Finishes • Competitive Prices • Wallpapering

preferredair@outlook.com

WW51454

FREE QUOTES

Glenmore Park Lic No. 44995C Over 30 years experience

Automotive

51550

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

Sales, Service Maintenance & Installation

Jason 0417 221 822 • Mark 0417 223 288 Aussie Bathrooms

• Over 30 years experience • Some repairs available • 1st level from $170, 2nd level from $190 – Prompt Service • High pressure cleaning

7 days • Phone 0421 196 041 02 4578 3259 • rossg2021@icloud.com

Clothes Line

4778 0082

Local Penrith Renovations

ROSS GRAHAM Chimneys Sweep, Flues, Chimney Cooking Stove, Pizza Ovens, etc

4733 2525

For all your air Call John on conditioning needs 0406 121 226

Chimney Sweeps

CLOTHESLINES INSTALLED FROM $395 Free Call & Quote Full range folding lines

AUTO CENTRE ORTRANTO P/L

Lic No 20505

Old hoist removed

Home Service

Pink & Blue Slips Logbook Service Full Servicing All Work Guaranteed Warranty Safe

Full Design Consultation & Installation Different Packages For Different Budgets 53018

Awnings

info@aussieservices.com.au aussiebathrooms.com.au

Fully Licensed & Insured

51540

4721 2500

Need Your Bathroom Renovated?

YES Old Hoist Repaired

Get 15% Off With Our AEP Cover Care *Aussie can accept ZIP payments up to the maximum value of $20,000, further T&Cs apply.

PATIOMAN

Call Richard 0407 585 691 – 9745 6626

Renovate your bathroom now and pay later with Zip Finance!* WW53018

WW48967

40 years’ experience – 7 Days

51009

FULL MECHANICAL WORKSHOP REGO CHECKS LPG & SERVICE

52712

http://westernweekender.com.au/directory/

www.doctorclothesline.com.au

Concrete Contractors

CALL NOW for a FREE measure & quote

4732 4566

www.jandlkitchens.com | info@jandlkitchens.com

Amazing Carports & Patios

Call Carl now for a free measure & quote on 0413 285 633

DECKS • RENOVATIONS • BATHROOMS • CARPENTRY

Beauty

0405 107 506

52671

WWW.CHRISLAWLERBUILDING.COM.AU

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED

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Local people make up to 90% of your customers.

Classified advertising is the most cost effective way to reach them. Like to know more...

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ADVERTISING WORKS

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Building Services

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• Carpentry

33 Years’ Experience

• Maintenance Work • Renovations • Plumbing & Electrical

bringthebling.com.au

35

years’ experience Lic. No. 367712C

52868

52680

Please call Mario 0415 601 033 magwal.com.au | magwalcontracting@gmail.com

• Decks & Pergolas • Bathroom Renovations

WW53001

Quality Carports, Pergolas, Patio Awnings, Screens, Glass & Alfresco Enclosures, Insulated Panel Roofs.

FREE Quotes

Slabs • Paths • Patios • Stencil • Driveways

D & J Concrete Resurfacing & Landscaping ABN: 18342307434

We specialise in concrete resurfacing & landscaping such as spray-on paving, colour sealing, concrete resealing, concrete grinding, non-slip coating, pressure cleaning, concrete garden edging, roof restoration, returfing.

Call Darren on 0403 374 216

or Email: djconcreteresurfacing@gmail.com

TRADIE ENTERPRISES Builder’s Lic. 2019005C

Ph: 0415 944 611 0415 944 661

PH: 0412 117 489

51549

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

Lic. No. 226190C

Building Contractors

Specialising in Colorbond Steel Carports & Patios

Deal direct with a licensed builder with over 20 years trade experience!

52763

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51053

Licensed Builder #169819C ABN: 27 135 477 862

TRADING OVER 20 YEARS | OVER 40 YEARS TRADE EXPERIENCE

51325

www.patioman.com.au

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53133

Call Peter Dunn 0416 035 645

52313

Lic No. 829 19C

Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms, Wooden Decks. OTHER SERVICES AVAILABLE: • Gutter cleaning • House painting • House maintenance • General repairs • Rubbish removal NO JOB TOO SMALL

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Put a Splash of Colour in your ad Call

4722 2998

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

31

Western Weekender

4744 2732

w w w. S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u

51429

yes we can SERVICING PENRITH AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

We NEVER

Close

Q lit

Frank 0417 663 192 Pest Control

GREATER WEST PEST CONTROL

Call Steve

53193

Termites

Guttering & Spouting

Cockroaches

Mobile 0414 833 356 Phone/Fax 9833 3563

Garage Doors NSW INSTALL & SERVICE Replacement of existing doors.

Remote control openers fitted from $440.

No labour or materials over $5000.

Domestic All work guaranteed

Hand Railings

SAFETY RAILS - Rails 2U

Call Simon 0438 928 807 ATTENTION SENIORS RING TO CLAIM YOUR SENIORS’ DISCOUNT ON CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ~ Call 4722 2998 TODAY

Supply / install custom or standard rails in steel or timber, internal or external.

9 OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES 9

51498

Gardening

Les: 0439 967 102

m lestoemoe@gmail.com

Driveways Roofs

PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Houses Gutters Solar Cells etc.

7 days – ALL HOLIDAYS • Call Ross 4578 3259 / 0421 196 041 rossg2021@icloud.com

HAVING A GARAGE SALE?

Michael on 0420 767 706 32

Total Satisfaction guaranteed we care for your environment

EMERSON’S ENVIROCARE CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

1800 600 760

for when you need a second opinion

Call us on 4722 2998 Kitchens

Prompt Service / Safe Treatments Competitive Pricing Cockroaches, Spiders, Ants, Silverfish, Rodents, Possums, Fleas/Ticks, Bees/Wasps, Birds.

END OF LEASE TREATMENTS TERMITE INSPECTIONS & TREATMENTS RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL/STRATA

Josh: 0487 266 020 ABN 25960932125

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Call now for great deals

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS LAUNDRIES & APPLIANCES

FREE MEASURE & QUOTE ~ BUY DIRECT & SAVE $$$$

4722 2998

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Ph 9892 2522 Mob: 0451 966 966 www.bvkb.com.au

51619

EXPERIENCED GARDENER FREE QUOTES ~ COMPETITIVE PRICES

Commercial • PEST CONTROL Industrial • SANITATION Residential • TERMITE CONTROL emersonsenvirocaresydney.com

Second Opinion Pest Control

NEED TO ADVERTISE?

9 SENIORS DISCOUNTS 9

51446

Landscaping, Trimming, Weeding, Turfing, Treelopping, Stump grinding, Paving, Retaining walls, Yard dressing.

MERSON’S ENVIROCARE

High Pressure Water Cleaning & Chimney Sweeping Services

BV Best Value BUDGET GARDEN SERVICE ADVERTISE YOUR KB BUSINESS HERE! A1 AAA ARDVARK

IF IT’S A PEST PROBLEM WE’LL FIX IT

52798

52837

ALL ABOUT

WW53214

ROSS GRAHAM

Garage Doors & Fittings

52855

Call Today - (02) 47318 200

High Pressure Cleaning

Licence No. 95571C | ABN 70 510 279 284

rr #

# &

Spiders + More Common Pests

52667

FREE QUOTES PROMPT, RELIABLE SERVICE 51548

Termite Inspection & Reports

4735 3142 or 0416 116 602

John Newham

53184

SMALL REPAIRS, FRIENDLY SERVICE, SENIORS DISCOUNTS F

ABN 34933562535 | Lic no 354402C

ROOFING SPECIALIST

t d

For all your painting requirements Over 40 years’ experience S Quality work guaranteed

All home repairs and maintenance No job too big or small PENRITH CA L Call Peter 0410 737 321 LO

All garden and lawn services provided including:

k

52975

HANDY FOX

• Mowing and edging • Tree pruning • Bindi and weed eradication • Hedge trimming • Lawn fertilisation • Gutter cleaning • Watering system installation • Removal of all clippings • General cleanup %XVK¿UH KD]DUG reduction

Lic. %$(#(#5

52857

PENRITH VALLEY GARDEN CARE

AXLOCO PAINTING

53062

Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more...

RE-DO KITCHENS

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52659

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

yardley1804@gmail.com

Call Tony 0419 696 745 After Hrs: 4731 6052 Email: avallinonelandscaping@hotmail.com WW47754

FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE!

FIND US ON

sr &# # !

Call Us Today... For our

Contact David 0415 312 294

WW44034

Penrith Electricians

Ph: 0413 212 041

Painters & Decorators

52845

WW53017

WW50909

Lic Number 273594c

PH: 4778 1959

Free Quotes, 7 Days a Week • Rockeries • Turfing • Retaining Walls • Concreting • Paving • Colorbond Fencing • Yard Cleaning

PH MARIO PACE FOR A FREE QUOTE

• High Pressure Driveway Cleans • Concrete Sealing & Painting • Hedging and Tree Maintenance • Concrete Cutting (up to 100mm deep) • General Handyman Services

52735

53017

EM ICE SERV

Transforming your kitchen into new by replacing your benchtops, doors, panels. Additional cabinets, pantries and laundry fitouts.

A&V All In One Landscaping

RE-DO KITCHENS

/E7 2E4 CY RG N

Call Murray 0404 889 907

• Plastering

Seniors/ Pensioners Discount

Ȉ Ȉ ͙͝

50off

$

0415 312 294

• Creating Landscapes & Garden Surfing • Paving • Retaining Wall • Mulching • Rubbish Removal • Cleaning • Tree Lopping • Stump Grinding

Mention this ad and get

Best Prices & All Work Guaranteed

Phone and Data

Handyman Service

Ƥ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ

All Electrical Work

$

DAVE’S

ABACUS TREE SERVICES & GARDENING

Kitchens

PENRITH LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

Handyman

Gardening

Electricians

http://westernweekender.com.au/directory/

Western Weekender

http://westernweekender.com.au/directory/

Plasterers-Plasterboard Fixers

SPECIALISING IN:

DEAN BARRY ROOF RESTORATIONS

*Gyprock & Cornice Renovations

Specialising in Roof Restorations, Repairs & Inspections

Lic NO: 51419c

*No Job Too Small | Over 30 Years

*Free Quotes *7 Days

Mob: 0414 554 553

joesplastering@hotmail.com | Fax: 9677 2421

PENRITH LOCAL PLUMBER

Lic Number 273594c

Seniors/ Pensioners Discount

• Roof Repairs & Antennas Available • Whirlybirds and Skylights over Xmas • Gutters, Fascia & Downpipes & Holiday Break • Tiles & Metal DRIVEWAYS Cleaned, Sealed & Coloured Call or text Greg 0424 371 622

/E7 2E4 CY RG N

FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING NEEDS

At the meeting all positions will be declared vacant and nominations will be called for the following positions:

Rubbish Removers

EM ICE SERV

The AGM of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation will be held at the Emu Sports Club, Leonay on Thursday 14 March, 2024 commencing at 6.00pm.

PH: 4778 1955

President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Executive Member (sport) 2 positions and Community Representative 2 positions.

51510

WW53016

Nominations for any vacant position are most welcome.

Please call Rodney Watson on 0412 470 102 or Steve Hardy on 0416 311 343 if you require any information.

For your convenience

52841

We accept!

PUBLIC NOTICES

Penrith Plumbers

Call Us Today... For our

FOR SALE

Emergency Plumbing

FOR SALE Complete set of

Taps and Toilets Water Leaks And more...

HOME WINE-MAKING EQUIPMENT

SERVICING PENRITH AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

4748 9019

w w w. S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u

51430

yes we can

Call 0438 633 529 for details

We NEVER

Close Lic. %$(#(#5

GARAGE SALES

HAVING A GARAGE SALE? NEED TO ADVERTISE? Call us on 4722 2998

GARAGE SALE

Connect With Us Online!

+ Furniture + Clothing + Bric-a-brac

INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram for fun & interactive posts.

WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

This Sunday 25th February 8am - 4pm

instagram.com/westernweekender

PH 042332-5048

WW53242

$0 Call Competitive out fee! rates

.

GARAGE SALE

WW53227

Unit 1/54-56 Castlereagh St PENRITH 53231

Simon Manning

WW52912

g Hot Water All Pricin t Up-Fron Blocked Drains

53269

FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE!

Sat 2nd March | 7.30am - 2pm Furniture, clothes, sporting goods and dance shoes, primary teaching equipment and books, genuine Disney merchandise etc.

3 Berril Place, GLENMORE PARK All good quality items

Letters submitted for publication are done so on the condition that The Western Weekender may edit them, ZLWKRXW DႇHFWLQJ WKH RYHUDOO PHVVDJH RU LQWHQW RI WKH OHWWHU 7KH :HVWHUQ :HHNHQGHU UHVHUYHV WKH ULJKW WR publish letters in other publications.

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Notice of

Annual General Meeting

ROOF RESTORATIONS

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Best Prices & All Work Guaranteed

Blocked Drains and Pipes

M&B Roofing 52589

All Plumbing Work

50 years experience • Free Roof Inspections • High Pressure Cleaning • Pensioner Discounts Mobile 0409 224 159 or 4733 3208

WW52642

Plumbers

Lic No: R89317

53089

JOE’S INTERIOR LININGS

$

PUBLIC NOTICES

Roofing

(7+,&$/ $1' $&&85$7( &217(17 The Western Weekender operates under a code FRYHULQJ ERWK HWKLFV DQG DFFXUDF\ ,I \RX EHOLHYH HLWKHU KDYH EHHQ FRPSURPLVHG LQ UHODWLRQ WR HGLWRULDO RU DGYHUWLVLQJ FRQWHQW WKDW DSSHDUV LQ WKLV SXEOLFDWLRQ \RX VKRXOG LQLWLDOO\ FRQWDFW WKH 0DQDJLQJ (GLWRU

ADVERTISE YOUR TRADE OR CLASSIFIED WITH US! Our Trades or Classifieds section is the most nsive comprehensive weekly guide available in the Penrith and St Marys regions.

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

33

Western Weekender

51569

http://westernweekender.com.au/directory/

WW48537 WW51569

weekender the western

Connect With Us Online!

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Join our digital community by connecting with us to stay informed with the best local news resource 34

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

TRAVEL FEATURE TAKE A LOOK INSIDE OUR TRAVEL & FUN FEATURE TO DISCOVER THE BEST PLACES TO STAY, EAT, AND PLAY!

53233

EXPLORE E XPLORE N NOW OW

Littomore Kingswood offers a new Penrith accommodation experience that delivers the comfort and convenience of your own home with the luxury and adventure of a world-class getaway.

Our suites are located on a leafy, gum-tree sprinkled street, close to many of the most important facilities in Western Sydney. We welcome visitors for business and leisure, and both those that want an extended stay in an apartment or to find comfort in a short visit to the area; our range of suites provide features for everyone.

Whatever reason you join us in Kingswood whether accommodation or meeting/training facility, we’ll be here to offer you the best service and comfort at the best rates possible.

BOOK NOW SCAN THE QR CODE

53191

littomoresuites.com.au | 02 4712 8188 10 Hargrave St, Kingswood NSW kingswood@littomoresuites.com.au

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

35

Discover the best Health & Wellness Retreat in Sydney Billabong Retreat is an award winning wellness sanctuary located in The Hills District, 45 minutes from Sydney.

Situated on 12 acres of native bushland the retreat offers allinclusive programs that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Overnight retreats are priced from $300pp, per night. Day Retreats with lunch, yoga and a spa treatment are priced from $200pp.

Experience: Yoga and meditation classes Wellness workshops Nourishing wholefood meals Magnesium swimming pool for aqua-therapy Deluxe treehouse accomodation with outdoor bathtub Spa treatments; massage, reiki, facial, naturopathy, iridology and more.

53082

Visit www.billabongretreat.com.au or phone 02 4573 6080 for more information.

Plan your next escape to the mountains Visit mountainheritage.com.au for the best price on an indulgent getaway to the Blue Mountains

53110

P +612 4782 2155 | stay@mountainheritage.com.au Cnr Apex & Lovel Street, Katoomba NSW 2780

36

mountainheritage.com.au

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

R E T R E AT S y W E D D I N G S y C O N F E R E N C I N G

Mountain Heritage

HOLLEY HOUSE LEURA

Book Online Via QR Code

Stay for a short break or stay for a weekend, you’re always welcome!

BOOK NOW - Stay @ Holley House 2, 3 ,5 or 7 days.

• KATOOMBA MUSIC FESTIVAL - MARCH Friday 15th to 17th • EASTER LONG WEEKEND -MARCH Friday 29th to Monday 1st APRIL • BLACKHEATH CHAMBER MUSIC - APRIL Friday 19th – Sunday 21st • LEURA HARVEST FESTIVAL – MAY Saturday 4th / Sunday 5th • MOTHERS DAY – MAY Sunday 12th • JUNE LONG WEEKEND - JUNE Saturday 8th to Monday 10th • SNOW – Who knows BOOK NOW between JUNE to SEPTEMBER • LEURA YULEFEST – Christmas MID YEAR JUNE to SEPTEMBER • FATHERS DAY - SEPTEMBER 1st • LABOUR DAY – Long weekend OCTOBER Saturday 5th to Monday 7th • LEURA GARDEN FESTIVAL – OCTOBER Saturday 5th / Sunday 6th • BATHURST 1000 – OCTOBER Thurs 10th Oct / Sunday 13th • RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL – Week NOVEMBER from Sunday 3rd • LEURA BOUTIQUE Shops & Cafes – Irene Byrne Antique Jewellery Teddy Sinclair gifts – Nina Leon Shoes - Mr Collins Restaurant.

Apartment occupies complete level of 100 sqm mtrs, only 200 mtrs from Village a 4 minute walk to Bakery & Café • Newly renovated, self-contained modern apartment with private entrance – surrounded by established gardens • 2 large bedrooms with queen-sized beds & storage • Large bathroom with walk-in glass shower & spa bath/heated towel rail • Lounge - dining room • Large TV & free wi-fi • Full custom kitchen (created in converted wine cellar) & new appliances • Complimentary cereals, milk, tea, bread spreads, biscuits & jams etc.

• BBQ & outdoor table chairs for a relaxed stay & invisible insect barrier • Secret gardens – one includes an old spring cart, ideal for photos and backdrops • Central heating & climate control in bedrooms

0468 580 380 | 19 Abbey Street, Leura YOUR FAMILY ADVENTURE NTURE AWAITS IN THE

WW53111

6LWXDWHG RQ WKH HGJH RI WKH -DPLVRQ 9DOOH\ Ŋ SDUW RI WKH :RUOG KHULWDJH OLVWHG %OXH 0RXQWDLQV 1DWLRQDO 3DUN Ŋ D VKRUW PLQ GULYH IURP 3HQULWK WKH DZDUG ZLQQLQJ Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is the pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Leura.

Host to a variety of dining outlets along with unmatched leisure facilities including an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, Kids-zone play area, basketball DQG WHQQLV FRXUWV WKH UHJLRQōV ƓUVW HYHU LFH VNDWLQJ ULQN 8ELND GD\ 6SD DQG PRUH the Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is the ultimate “family escape” destination.

1 Sublime Point Road, Leura, NSW, 2780, Australia Tel: +61 2 4785 0000 Email: reservations@fairmontresort.com.au www.fairmontresort.com.au

ont ounds of the Fairm Located on the gr rfect for pe a ur Le , ns tai Resort Blue Moun rn, or just skate, want to lea those who love to have some fun! se from, of sessions to choo With a wide range e perfect th it’s , tes nu mi for 90 each session runs for everyone! all-weather activity

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. SUITABLE FOR ALL LEVELS AND AGE GROUPS. For full opening hours and session times visit http://bit.ly/3FHNpeF

*T&Cs apply

Bookings are essential CASH-LESS VENUE

SCAN QR CODE TO BOOK 1 Sublime Point Rd, Leura NSW 2780 E: icerink@fairmontresort.com.au | P: +61 2 4785 0000

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

53201

S IC E B LU E M O U N TA IN

O PE N !

S K AT IN G R IN K IS

TI CK ET PR IC ES ADULTS $2 5 * CHILD $20 * INFANT $10 * FAMILY $6 5

37

EXPLORE ONE OF THE OLDEST CAVE SYSTEMS IN THE WORLD Jenolan Caves is an UNESCO World Heritage site boasting adventure, beautiful bushwalks, stunning caves, an abundance of wildlife and breathtaking views, creating a world of its own.

BOOK NOW 4 star accommodation multiple room breakdowns all rooms with an ensuite kitchenette with sink, toaster, kettle & microwave breakfast & dinner included

www.jenolancaves.org.au

guided cave tours visit the underground river 7 caves to explore caves to suit a range of fitness levels family prices available

Ph: 1300 763 311

dine in 1 of 2 remaining grand dining rooms in Australia 2 or 3 course dinner options Dining included with accommodation bookings a grand dining experience

reception@jenolancaves.org.au 53105

38

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

EXPERIENCE LUXURY Wherever you travel Meriton Suites is conveniently located throughout Australia’s best cities.

With over 20 locations all offering an immersive and unique stay for your next family getaway or overnight business trip.

Meriton Suites locations include:

Sydney • Bondi Junction • Campbell Street, Sydney • Chatswood • Church Street, Parramatta

• Coward Street, Mascot • Mascot Central • George Street, Parramatta • Pitt Street, Sydney • Kent Street, Sydney • North Ryde • Liverpool • North Sydney

• Sussex Street, Sydney • Waterloo • World Tower, Sydney • Zetland

Brisbane

Gold Coast

Canberra

Melbourne

• Adelaide Street • Herschel Street

• Broadbeach • Southport • Surfers Paradise

• Canberra

• Melbourne

BOOK NOW

53202

meritonsuites.com.au | 131 672 Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

39

STAY BETTER

With 75+ Hotels across Australia there’s a Nightcap for everyone!

with 75+ locations Australia-wide EVERYDAY VALUE + COMFORT + MODERN DESIGN + FUN = A GREAT ACCOMMODATION EXPERIENCE

Nightcap Everyday Perks: • Best rates when you book direct • Free Welcome drink on arrival • Free bottled spring water • 10% off dining* • Free boxed breakfast-to-go* • Sleep on the comfort of a Nightcap Premium King Koil bed • Free parking*

10 % OFF

Use pro WEEKEN mo code DER10 w hen boo nightcap king on hotels.c om.au

nightcaphotels.com.au

53036

Free Parking

53203

40

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Book by 31 March 2024. Stay up to 31 August 2024, book ‘Flexible’ rate using promo code WEEKENDER10. Subject to availability. A minimum night stay may apply in times of high demand.

RAMSES

& THE GOLD OF THE PHARAOHS Exhibit Accommodation Package From $359* Immerse yourself in history with a luxurious stay at Pullman Sydney Hyde Park, offering exclusive tickets to the Ramses & The Gold Of The Pharaohs Exhibit.

Enhance your experience with superior accommodation, stress-free parking, and a delightful morning buffet breakfast.

Book now and uncover the wonders of Ramses II in a way like never before! *T&Cs Apply

Book

Now

It’s Tea O’clock!

Unwind and immerse yourself in the elegance and tranquillity of our high tea experience at Novotel Sydney Parramatta. Indulge in delightful pastries, sandwiches, and desserts with curated teas, coffee, and a glass of sparkling on arrival. Available every weekend, 11am-2pm for just $59 per person.

Book

Now

At Tea O’clock, it’s a moment to slow down, savour, and make lasting memories with your loved ones.

52989

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

41

Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square.

With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.

www.pancakesontherocks.com.au 45024

WW44155

CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM

I have reviewed about 4,000 shows, and none can compare to what I saw tonight.”

—Richard Connema, theatre critic

“An Extraordinary Experience.”

—Cate Blanchett

Hear all-original melodies with a powerful live East-West orchestra, vocal and instrumental soloists.

8–17 March 53234

Capitol Theatre ShenYun.com

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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2022 & 2023 Finalist NSW Tourism Awards 2022 Bronze for New Business in Tourism 2023 Silver for Unique Accommodation in Tourism

Luxury eco-glamping experience From warm waters to crackling fires, every moment becomes an invitation to unwind and create treasured memories. Evamor Valley offers an exquisite sanctuary, where luxury and nature intertwine, crafting an experience that transcends ordinary stays.

Book your luxury getaway today’ Booking through website

109 Tinja Lane, Mudgee | 0439 439 073 | evamorvalley.com.au

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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Since opening its doors in November 2021, Evamor Valley has continued to provide luxury eco-glamping experiences in the beautiful countryside of Mudgee. With six eco tents on offer, each featuring a private hot tub, buttery smooth sheets, and private deck and fire pit, every element is designed with relaxation in mind.

Escape the daily grind and reconnect at Rosewood Farmstay Beautifully located in the Southern Tablelands of NSW, Rosewood offers those wishing to escape their daily routine, a chance to unwind and reset.

Enjoy an exclusively private escape where you can get close to nature without having to compromise on comfort or quality.

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It’s truly comfort under the stars with all you will need for a memorable getaway. Plan your escape for a romantic few days without having to leave your furry friend behind, and enjoy all that Wine Country has to offer.

You can soak away your stresses in the outdoor hot tub, or roast marshmallows over the fire as you cozy up next to the outdoor fire pit. With a dog crate, soap and “tidy” bags included so your furry friend can feel as special here as you

do. Located at the northern end of Hermitage Rd, you’ll be close to all the action along this well-known winery strip, yet far enough away to soak up the expanse of your surroundings and truly relax.

Use code WEEKENDER2024 for 10% off your stay!

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Nestled in the Jerrara countryside just 90 minutes from Sydney, with Kiama’s stunning beaches and town centre moments away.

All our tents feature their own private fire pit and deck with breathtaking views across the beautiful green rolling hills of Jamberoo.

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both luxury and tranquillity. Each cottage accommodates two guests, ensuring privacy with ample space between them.

Designed by renowned architect Glenn Murcutt AO, Strikes 3 is nestled in the heart of Mudgee’s finest vineyards, offering a luxurious escape with breathtaking views of the Australian landscape. This stunning house, located less than 10 minutes from Mudgee, provides absolute peace, privacy, and tranquility. Perfect for couples or singles, Strikes 3 allows you to unwind with award-winning food and wine experiences at your doorstep.

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Glenn Murcutt, the only Australian to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize, has meticulously crafted Strikes 3, showcasing a lifetime of work. Immerse yourself in the captivating environment both inside and out, and discover why Glenn is celebrated as one of Australia’s most esteemed architects.

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info@strikesmudgee.com.au | strikesmudgee.com.au the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

THIS PLACE IS ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY. Enjoy a break with a difference. Here you can truly relax and unwind in the peace and tranquillity of a rural landscape.

The last word in geo-design doe self-catering accommodation, our nature domes are the ultimate way to experience sustainable living in comfort and privacy, without sacrificing any creature comforts.

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Perfect stay for 2 guests as a romantic weekend away, honeymoon, anniversary, girls’ getaway, engagement, birthday celebration, bridal shower, hens’ night, golfing weekend away and excuse for a fun adventure.

We now cater for group stays of 8 guests at the Nature Group Retreat Domes”” Group adventure stays, party or birthday celebrations, girls’ getaways, bridal showers, boys’ weekends, golfing groups stays, wellness and yoga retreats.

We have carefully curated a luxury country getaway that provides you with everything that you need to create your very own bespoke break. Whether you want romance, a serene honeymoon, a celebration, adventure holiday or a simple break away form it all, you will find it here. All you need to do is pack a bag, jump in your car, and get here.

Toms Creek Rd, Toms Creek | www.naturedomes.net Images courtesy of www.quilmancruz.com & highsocialmarketing.com

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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LUXURY LODGE • HATTED RESTAURANT WHISKEY TASTING DISTILLERY Experience the Hunter’s most luxurious accommodation, exceptional regionally sourced Ƭɖǣɀǣȇƺ ƏɎ Ȓɖȸ ǝƏɎɎƺƳ ȸƺɀɎƏɖȸƏȇɎ ۭ Ɏǝƺ RɖȇɎƺȸ‫ټ‬ɀ ˡȸɀɎ ɯǝǣɀǸƺɵ ɎƏɀɎǣȇǕ ƳǣɀɎǣǼǼƺȸɵِ

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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Call: 02 6554 0291 | Visit: tiona.com.au | Email: stay@ tiona.com.au | Follow: @tiona_nsw Find us at: 4451 The Lakes Way, Pacific Palms (15 minutes south of Forster)

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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Happily, Ever After WEDDING SHOWCASE AT PARK PROXI GIBRALTAR BOWRAL Sunday, 17 March 2024 From 10am - 3pm Free Entry - RSVP Required Canapes and sparkling wine served during limited time intervals throughout the event. Preview to our current and adjustable ceremony locations and reception venues. Meet some of the Southern Highland’s most adored event experts.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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

JETTING INTO TOWN

CASSIDY PEARCE

J

imi Hocking has been with the Screaming Jets on and off since the third year of its existence, initially joining in 1993.

Off the back of the success of their hit single ‘Better’, the band went to the US where Hocking admitted the wheels started falling off, seeing him come in to replace Richard Lara after he fell ill.

“I came in to do three weeks with the band, and Richie just never came back, so that three weeks turned into three years, four years, five years, and I was still there by the end of the ‘90s playing with the band,” he said.

It was after this that Hocking took time off, focusing on making music as a solo artist.

However, he made his return to the band almost 15 years ago, having remained close with members who had hoped this dream of reuniting would become a reality.

“I think [Dave] always hoped that if the timing was right, I would come back to the band,” he said.

“Izzy Osmanovic had been playing in the band for a few years since when I was gone, and he left the band, and people were reaching out to me to see what I was doing, and the timing was right – I’d done a lot of the things I wanted to do, I spent time living in New York, I got divorced, I got my black belt grading, all the things that were on my bucket list – so I decided I would come back and help the band get back to where it was.”

In the time he was flying solo, Hocking admitted he missed the humour and family-feel of the band, driven by founders Dave Gleeson and the late Paul Woseen.

“By and large, Paul and Dave were really the people that had the ethos of it being a family band, and that old-fashioned family band idea has trickled down and everybody’s entered the realm,” he said.

“The Screaming Jets is not so much a business opportunity, but it really is like a band of mates who want to make music together.”

At the time when he returned to the Screaming Jets, Hocking said there were a few shifts on the back end which would ultimately bring the band back to a better place, proven by the success of their latest album.

Released in October last year, ‘Professional Misconduct’ debuted at number one on the ARIA Australian album chart, number one on the ARIA vinyl album chart and number one on the main ARIA album chart.

The record features 10 new tracks including the singles ‘Nothing to Lose’ and the anthemic track, ‘Second Chance’ and is their first full album of all-new music in eight years.

Hocking said he was shocked at the type of success the album experienced, bringing fans new and old out of the woodwork.

“I think it’s a great record, but that’s just me, so you do what you do, and you hope people

enjoy it, but I had really outstanding responses from people, like literally people stopping me in the street – which is quite unusual now – to talk about the songs and to say what their favourite moments are,” he said.

“These are people who have really listened and really absorbed the album for real, like in the old days when you’d buy ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ and really throw yourself into it, and even students who come and see me have wanted to learn guitar parts off the record.

“It’s really had a great impact, and I’m so encouraged by that. At my age, I didn’t expect to be as busy as I am, but here we are!”

The band has been touring the album since January, and, due to overwhelming demand, a new show has been added in Richmond, with Hocking promising a classic rock show complete with both old and hew hits.

The Screaming Jets will be on at Richmond Club on Friday, March 1 at 8.30pm. Tickets: $45. To book, visit richmondclub.com.au.

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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THINGS TO DO Fundraiser at Blue Mountains Theatre

Support musicians of the future

Walk back through history

After a sell out concert in 2023, ‘Good Morning Vietnam: Music from the Vietnam War Era – Live in Concert’ will hit the stage of the Blue Mountains Theatre again on Saturday, March 9, with their all-new concert extravaganza – fundraising for the Blue Mountains Vietnam Veterans an Associated Force Inc. For more information, visit bluemountainstheatre.com.au.

The PYO Academy concert is a platform that highlights the remarkable skills of western Sydney's most promising young musicians. Don't miss out on an amazing chance to support and enjoy local talent at The Joan next Sunday, March 3 at 3pm.

Tickets start at $20. For more information or to book, visit penrithconservatorium.com.au.

On Sunday, February 25, from 10am to 3pm, Tarella Cottage at 99 Blaxland Road, Wentworth Falls, will be open to the public.

The Blue Mountains Historical Society is inviting everyone to visit the 19th century cottage and discover what life was like for our ancestors. The Research Centre is also open. Entry is $5 for adults, and $2 for children.

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

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.

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

Tai chi and qiqong exercise.

the perfect unique experience

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

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.

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

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.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

to enjoy, share or gift

TM

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES

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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.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

At the movies...

REVIEW Bob Marley: One Love  1 hour, 47 minutes Bob Marley lived by the belief that music could heal and bring people together.

It was a powerful thought given his career was influenced by a period in Jamaica’s history impacted by civil war and political unrest.

‘Bob Marley: One Love’ sharply focuses on a specific part of Marley’s story, being his 1976 peace concert and his survived assassination attempt.

There’s not a lot about Marley’s early years and the building of his career – in fact we come into the story when Marley is already Jamaica’s biggest star.

But the filmmakers struggle to stick to their guns here, often providing glimpses backwards that don’t really add to the story. The result is a sometimes jumpy, confusing narrative.

Nonetheless this is an interesting look at Marley’s career and the health battle that would ultimately claim his life.

Marley may have died in 1981 but his music has transcended generations and certainly moved the reggae genre into broader society.

If you’re unfamiliar with his story though, the film will feel it leaves more questions than answers given the limited time period it focuses on. I’m not sure a biopic really lands effectively when it leaves you unsure about so much in the subject’s life.

‘One Love’ certainly isn’t in the top echelon of biopics – it’s no ‘Ray’ or ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ – but it’s an enjoyable watch despite its flaws.

– Troy Dodds

See this movie at...

PENRITH

www.hoyts.com.au

Tickets $15 Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 Force of Nature: The Dry 2 (M)

Bob Marley: One Love (M)

The Boys in May the Boat (PG) December (MA)

Now Showing to 28 Feb Now Showing to 28 Feb

22 to 24 Feb

22 to 28 Feb

Kinky Boots Solstice The Peppa’s Holdovers (M) Cinema Party (G) Musical - $20 Charity Screening (M) 24 Feb to 1 Mar

24 & 25 Feb

24 & 25 Feb

25 Feb

www.glenbrookcinema.com.au

WW43898

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Direct to your email inbox: Weekly Session Times & Coming Attractions

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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COUNTRY CORNER Musgraves goes deep with new record Kacey Musgraves (pictured below) is returning with her fifth studio album ‘Deeper Well’.

Out March 15 and inspired by the energy of New York City’s Greenwich Village and its rich musical history, Musgraves recorded a good portion of the new album at the legendary Electric Lady studios.

“I was seeking some different environmental energy, and Electric Lady has the best mojo. Great ghosts,” noted Musgraves.

Title track and first single ‘Deeper Well’ is out now, with a companion video directed by Hannah Lux Davis.

tracks, with country radio in the United States hesitant to add the tracks to playlists on any significant rotation.

Lainey releases hot new song She’s the new queen of country and her Australian tour is looming, and now Lainey Wilson (pictured below) has dropped a humming new track.

‘Country’s Cool Again’ is out now on all the usual streaming services.

“I’m so excited for everyone to hear ‘Country’s Cool Again’,” she said.

“This song is a welcome to everyone who’s wanting in on the Western way of life. For a lot of us, Country music isn’t just a genre, it’s our livelihood.”

Wilson will play concerts in Australia next month.

Beyonce’s country switch She’s one of the world’s biggest stars and now Beyonce is making the switch to country.

She used the Super Bowl last week to release two new country-influenced tracks, ‘Texas Hold ‘Em’ and ‘16 Carriages’ and will release a new album next month.

But there’s been a mixed response to the

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

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Ê The second season of survival series ‘Alone Australia’ will premiere on SBS on Wednesday, March 27 at 7.30pm. This time, 10 Australian survivalists will be dropped into the extreme and wild terrain of New Zealand’s South Island, where they face the ultimate test of human will. Participants are again completely isolated from the world and each other, stripped of modern possessions, contact and comforts, left to self-document their experience. The last one standing takes home an impressive $250,000.

Nathan Taylor

Ê ‘Dateline’, Australia’s longest running international currents affairs show, will celebrate 40 years on air when the new season premieres on Tuesday, March 5 on SBS. The landmark season will explore global issues that expand our understanding of the world around us, with this year’s line-up featuring stories from Venezuela, Romania, Syria, Netherlands, Germany, the US, and beyond.

TV NEWS

MARCH 5 9.30PM OVER THE BLACK DOT, NITV

MARCH 27

7.30PM

Ê NITV flagship footy show ‘Over the Black Dot’ will return on Tuesday, March 5 at 9.30pm. Hosted by former NRL player and proud Anaiwan man Dean Widders, this season will broadcast live with weekly 45-minute programs. ‘Over the Black Dot’ is a weekly round-up program of rugby league news, views and yarns, featuring guest appearances, game results, hot topics and the community that makes the game of rugby league the greatest. Meanwhile, ‘Over the Black Dot’ will share updates from the UK Super League, which, for the first time, will have select matches shown live and via replay on NITV each week. Select UK Super League matches will air live on weekends, with replays shown on Tuesdays from 10.15pm, starting on Tuesday, February 20.

These games will be available for seven days, to stream for free, on SBS On Demand. Ê New live-action event series ‘Knuckles’ will drop on Paramount+ on Saturday, April 27. The six-part series, which is voiced by Idris Elba, takes place between the films ‘Sonic

ALONE AUSTRALIA, SBS The Hedgehog 2’ and ‘Sonic The Hedgehog 3’. It follows Knuckles (Elba) on a journey of self-discovery as he agrees to train Wade (Adam Pally) as his protégé and teach him the ways of the Echidna warrior.

Ê New mystery series ‘High Country’ will premiere on Foxtel and Binge on Tuesday, March 19 at 8.30pm. The eight-part series revolves around detective Andrea Whitford, who is transferred to the Victorian High Country and thrust into a baffling mystery of five missing persons who have vanished into the wilderness. Through an edge-of-the-seat, high-stakes investigation, Andie uncovers a complex web involving murder, deceit and revenge. Ê Good news for fans of ‘Abbot Elementary’ with the US comedy renewed for a fourth season. The Disney+ series stars Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues, a perpetually optimistic second-grade teacher at the underfunded Abbott Elementary, a fictional predominantly Black school in Philadelphia.

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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TV Guide: February 23–29

Sunday 25 February

Saturday 24 February

Friday 23 February

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America 10:30 The Cook And The Chef 11:00 Fake Or Fortune? 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Silent Witness (M v) 2:00 Total Control (PG) 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 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 Midsomer Murders (M) 10:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 10:30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Planning On 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Forever” (G) (’22) Stars: Emily Tennant 2:00 Australian Idol (PG) 1:30 Motorbike Cops Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 (PG) 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Taronga - Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Miss Movie: “Sweet Home Alabama” (PG) (’02) Stars: Candice Bergen 10:50 TBA 12:35 Get Congeniality” (PG) (’00) Stars: Sandra Bullock 10:45 Movie: “Magic Mike XXL” On Extra 1:05 12 Monkeys (MA15+) 3:00 (MA15+) (’15) Stars: Channing Tatum Home Shopping 4:00 Million Dollar Minute

10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Judge Judy (PG) 11:00 Dr Phil (M) 12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Judge Judy (PG) 2:00 Dr Phil (M) 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Everyday Gourmet 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Graham Norton Show (M) 8:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 9:30 The Graham Norton Show (M)

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) 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M) 9:25 NCIS: Hawaii (PG)

3:00 Room For Improvement 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 Border Security International (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Desert Collectors (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Men In Black 3” (PG) (’12) Stars: Emma Thompson

12:00 Royal Pains (PG) 2:00 A Moveable Feast (PG) 3:50 The Goldbergs (PG) 4:45 America’s Got Talent Extreme (PG) 6:40 Movie: “Peter Rabbit” (PG) (’18) Stars: James Corden 8:30 Movie: “Father Stu” (M l,s,v) (’22) Stars: Mark Wahlberg

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 Africa’s Hidden Kingdoms (PG) 7:45 Movie: “Flight Of The Navigator” (G) (’86) Stars: Joey Cramer

5:00 Hardball 5:20 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir (PG) 5:55 So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 Transformers: EarthSpark (PG) 8:25 Dragon Ball Super (PG)

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 8:45 ABC News Tonight

5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Holding The Man” (MA15+) (’15) Stars: Ryan Corr

4:05 PBS Newshour 5:00 Hidden Gems 6:00 5:05 The Joy Of Plat du Tour 6:30 Mary Painting With Bob Ross Makes It Easy 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 5:35 Fashionista 5:45 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross Rick Stein’s Far Eastern 6:15 The Fast History Of (PG) Odyssey 8:40 Jamie’s Great 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV Britain 9:40 Come Dine With News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Me UK 10:30 The Cook Up Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) With Adam Liaw

12:00 ABC News 12:30 Death In Paradise (PG) 1:30 Darby And Joan (PG) 2:15 Spicks And Specks (PG) 2:45 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 3:15 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World (PG) 4:00 Grand Designs Transformations (PG) 5:00 Better Date Than Never (PG) 5:30 Landline 5:55 Australian Story (PG) 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Darby And Joan (PG) 8:15 Endeavour (M s,v) 9:45 Total Control (M l,v) 10:40 Midsomer Murders (M)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Caulfield/ Rosehill *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Bourne Legacy” (M v) (’12) Stars: Jeremy Renner 10:15 Movie: “The Kingdom” (MA15+) (’07) Stars: Jamie Foxx 12:35 Motorsport: Repco Supercars Highlights

6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Summer 12:00 Great Australian Detour 12:30 My Way 1:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 2:00 Movie: “Rocky III” (PG) (’82) Stars: Sylvester Stallone 4:00 Journey To The Northern Territory 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: Reds v Waratahs *Live* 10:15 Movie: “The Departed” (M) (’06)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:30 The Point - Road To Referendum History Bites 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Every Family Has A Secret (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 Legends End - The Loch Ness Monster Story (PG) 9:25 Queens That Changed The World (PG)

1:00 Unsellable Houses 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 2:00 My Lottery Dream The Middle (PG) 2:00 Home International Ghosts (PG) 3:00 The 3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Caribbean Life 5:00 Fixer Farm To Fork 4:30 Becker Upper 6:00 House Hunters (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 The Big International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Island Of Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two Bryan And A Half Men (PG) 4:00 Family Ties (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:45 Movie: “Abominable” (G) (’19) Stars: Chloe Bennet 7:30 Movie: “Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium” (PG) (’07) Stars: Natalie Portman

10:00 Australia By Design 10:30 Farm To Fork 11:00 Everyday Gourmet 11:30 All 4 Adventure 12:30 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass 1:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 2:00 Wildlife Rescue Australia 3:00 What’s Up Down Under 3:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30 Taste Of Australia 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 7:00 Football: AFC Olympic Qualifiers: Uzbekistan v Matildas *Live* 10:30 TBA 11:30 Ambulance UK (M l)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Gymnastics: Apparatus World Cup Highlights 4:00 Yachting: Sail GP: Round 8: Day 1 *Live* From Sydney 5:30 Such Was Life (PG) 5:35 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres (PG) 8:25 Scotland’s Scenic Railways (PG) 9:20 The Wonders Of Europe (PG) (In French/ English) 10:20 Those Who Stayed (M) (In Ukrainian) 11:05 Between Two Worlds (M l)

12:00 NDRC Top Fuel Championship 1:00 Motorsport: Repco Supercars Championship: Qualifying & Supports/ PreRace & Race *Live* 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Air Crash Investigations (PG)

12:40 Jabba’s Movies (PG) 1:10 America’s Got Talent Extreme (PG) 3:10 Dodger (PG) 4:10 Baking It (PG) 5:10 Movie: “Breakthrough” (PG) (’19) Stars: Marcel Ruiz 7:30 Movie: “Kindergarten Cop” (G) (’90) Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger

3:55 Tina - What’s Love (PG) 5:50 The Last Land (PG) 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Tradition On A Plate 7:00 The Other Side 7:30 Idris Elba’s Fight School (M l) 8:35 Movie: “Constantine” (M l,v) (’05) Stars: Keanu Reeves

11:30 Luxury Escapes 12:00 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 1:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures (PG) 2:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Round 18: Sydney FC v Melbourne City *Live* 8:00 NCIS (M) 9:00 NCIS: Los Angeles (M)

8:00 Becker (PG) 9:00 Neighbours (PG) 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 12:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:00 Becker (PG) 4:00 Frasier (PG) 5:30 Ghosts (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Friends (PG)

1:00 My Lottery Dream Home International 1:30 Houses With History 2:30 Renovation Impossible 3:30 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 4:30 Island Of Bryan 5:30 Revealed 6:30 Holiday Homes In The Sun 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

3:00 ABC News 3:30 5:15 Total Drama Island The Breakfast Couch (PG) 5:40 School Of 4:00 ABC News 4:30 Rock (PG) 6:05 The Close Of Business 5:00 ABC Next Step 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Mythbusters 7:35 News 5:30 The World This Week 6:00 ABC Evening News Star Wars: Young Jedi 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC Adventures 7:45 Kung Fu National News 7:30 Back Panda: Legends Of Roads 8:00 ABC News Tonight Awesomeness

4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (M l,s)

5:30 Khanh Ong’s Wild Food 6:30 Evolving Vegan 7:30 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours 8:30 Rick Stein’s Seafood Lovers’ Guide 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 River Cottage Australia 11:30 The Cook And The Chef

3:50 ABC World News Tonight 4:20 PBS Newshour 5:20 Fashionista 5:30 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross 6:00 Food That Built The World (PG) 7:35 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 The Legend Of Bigfoot (M)

1:30 Movie: “Carbon Copy” (PG) (’81) 3:15 Movie: “Curse Of The Pink Panther” (PG) (’83) Stars: David Niven 5:30 Movie: “Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London” (PG) (’04) 7:30 Movie: “Overboard” (PG) (’18) Stars: Eugenio Derbez

3:30 Movie: “Two Way Stretch” (G) (’60) Stars: Peter Sellers 5:15 Movie: “Yours, Mine And Ours” (PG) (’05) Stars: Dennis Quaid 7:30 Movie: “Quantum Of Solace” (M v) (’08) Stars: Daniel Craig 9:40 Movie: “A Fistful Of Dollars” (M) (’64)

12:00 TBA 1:00 Escape To The Perfect Town 2:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Caulfield/ Rosehill *Live* 6:00 Heathrow (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) Gardening Australia 2:30 Dream Gardens 3:00 Nigella Bites 3:30 The Cook And The 12:00 Motorsport: Repco Supercars Chef 3:55 Martin Clunes: Islands Of America Championship: Bathurst 500: Day 2: Qualifying & Supports/ Pre-Race & Race (PG) 4:45 Joanna Lumley’s Britain (PG) 5:30 The ABC Of Miranda Tapsell (PG) 6:00 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Grand Designs Transformations 7:00 ABC Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Australian Idol (PG) 8:30 Ron Iddles - The News 7:30 Death In Paradise (PG) 8:30 Good Cop (MA15+) 9:35 Mr Bates vs. The House Of Gods (M l) 9:25 Silent Witness (M v) 10:25 Midsomer Murders (M v) 11:10 Post Office (M) 10:35 Soham - Catching A Killer (M v) 11:35 Autopsy USA (MA15+) Harrow (M v) 12:05 Significant Others (M)

6:00 Fishing Australia 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 GolfBarons 11:00 TBA 11:30 TBA 12:00 Building Icons 1:00 Movie: “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” (PG) (’88) Stars: Steve Martin 3:20 David Attenborough’s A Perfect Planet (PG) 4:30 Explore 5:00 NINE News: First At 5 5:30 RBT (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Late 10:10 Murder In The Family (M)

10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Pooches At Play 11:00 Buy To Build 11:30 Healthy Homes 12:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 1:30 Cook With Luke 2:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures 3:00 Roads Less Travelled 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Sunday Project (PG) 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 9:00 NCIS: Hawaii (M v) 11:00 The Sunday Project (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping 4:30 CBS Mornings

12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Para-Badminton 1:00 Motorsport: Australian Superbikes: Round 1 *Live* 3:00 Where Are You Really From? (PG) 4:00 Yachting: Sail GP: Round 8 *Live* 5:30 Such Was Life (PG) 5:35 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Mystery Of The Loch Ness Monster (PG) 8:20 Vikings - The Lost Kingdom (M v) (In English/ French/ Swedish) 10:00 Rise Of The Nazis Dictators At War (M v)

12:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 South Aussie With Cosi (PG) 2:30 TBA 3:15 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 5:15 I Escaped To The Country 6:15 Escape To The Country 7:15 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (PG) 10:30 Call The Midwife (M)

4:00 Mighty Ships (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars New York (PG) 6:00 Border Security: International (PG) 7:00 Border Security Australia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Kingsman: The Secret Service” (M l,v) (’14) Stars: Colin Firth

12:30 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 2:45 The Amazing Race (PG) 3:30 TBA 3:55 Australian Idol (PG) 5:15 Wild Tokyo (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M)

3:00 Impact! Wrestling Downunder 5:35 Talking Language 6:05 NITV News Update 6:15 Nature’s Great Migration (PG) 7:25 Monochrome: Black, White And Blue (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Coextinction” (M) (’21) Stars: Chief Ernest

11:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 What’s Up Down Under 4:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 4:30 Football: Round 18: Melbourne Victory v Central Coast Mariners *Live* 7:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 NCIS: Los Angeles (M) 11:15 Blue Bloods (M)

6:00 The Middle (PG) 9:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 10:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:00 The Middle (PG) 3:30 MacGyver (PG) 4:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

1:30 Ugliest House In America 2:30 The Weekend Workshop 3:30 Holiday Homes In The Sun 4:30 Escape To The Chateau 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters International 7:30 Fixer Upper 8:30 Flipping 101

4:55 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir 5:15 Total Drama Island 5:40 School Of Rock 6:05 The Next Step 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Mythbusters (PG) 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 8:10 The Legend Of Korra

3:00 ABC News 3:30 Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 ABC News Regional 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Price Of Progress: Indonesia’s Nickel Rush 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders 8:30 ABC News

4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:05 The Smeds And The Smoos 5:35 Pop Paper City 6:10 Pfffirates 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Queerstralia (M) 9:35 You Can’t Ask That (M l)

5:30 Taste Of France 6:00 Luca’s Key Ingredient 6:30 Michel Roux’s French Country Cooking 7:30 Jamie’s Ultimate Veg 8:30 Remarkable Places To Eat 9:35 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 River Cottage Australia

5:10 Fashionista 5:20 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross 5:50 Alone Sweden (M l) (In Swedish) 6:40 Ocean Wreck Investigation (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering 8:30 The Hunt For Stolen Nazi Treasure (M)

3:00 Rich House, Poor House (PG) 4:00 Movie: “The Secret Life Of Pets 2” (G) (’19) Stars: Kevin Hart 5:40 Movie: “Scoob!” (G) (’20) Stars: Will Forte 7:30 Movie: “Fast & Furious 6” (M l,v) (’13) Stars: Vin Diesel 10:00 Movie: “American Ultra” (MA15+) (’15)

2:10 Movie: “Danger Within” (G) (’59) Stars: Richard Attenborough 4:20 Movie: “The Kentuckian” (PG) (’55) Stars: Burt Lancaster 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Dirty Harry” (M l,v) (’71) Stars: Clint Eastwood 10:40 Chicago Med (MA15+)

Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

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3:05 Antiques Roadshow 3:35 Movie: “We Joined The Navy” (G) (’62) Stars: Kenneth More 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders (M) 8:30 Movie: “Gladiator” (M v) (’00)

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Thursday 29 February

Wednesday 28 February

Tuesday 27 February

Monday 26 February

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12:00 ABC News 1:00 Australia Remastered 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:25 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story (PG) 8:30 Four Corners (PG) 9:15 Media Watch 9:35 Q+A (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Australian Idol (PG) 1:30 Motorbike Cops (PG) 2:00 TBA 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Australian Idol (PG) 9:00 The Irrational (M v)

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 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 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:10 Big Miracles (M) 10:10 NINE News Late

5:00 Our Stories 5:30 12:00 Royal Pains (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars 4:30 Better Homes And APTN National News 3:00 Australian Idol (PG) 5:00 American Gardens 5:30 Escape 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet Restoration (PG) 5:30 To The Country 6:30 News Update 6:40 Africa’s (PG) 6:30 Dr Harry’s Animal Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Hidden Kingdoms 7:30 Who Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Encounters (PG) 7:30 Law & (PG) 8:30 Foyle’s War (M v) Do You Think You Are? (PG) Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 10:45 Mighty Cruise Ships (M) Opal Hunters (PG) 5:55 Octonauts: Above 5:00 ABC News With 6:30 Operation Ouch!

And Beyond 6:30 Ben Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:00 Horrible Histories And Holly’s Little News Hour 7:00 ABC 7:40 The Penguins Of Kingdom 7:05 Riley Rocket Madagascar 8:00 The Legend National News 7:30 ABC Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Kong: King Evening News 8:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Tonight 8:45 The Business Of The Apes (PG)

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 Antiques Roadshow 5:10 Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 Better Date Than Never (PG) 9:05 Whale With Steve Backshall

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Australian Idol (PG) 1:30 Motorbike Cops (PG) 2:00 Psych (M l,v) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Australian Idol (PG) 8:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (M)

1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 8:30 FBI: Most Wanted (M v) 11:30 The Project (PG)

2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG)

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Getaway (PG) 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 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:00 The Hundred With Andy Lee (PG)

1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Judge Judy (PG) 2:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 9:00 NCIS (M) 10:00 NCIS: Los Angeles (M)

2:30 Jake And The 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV Fatman (PG) 3:30 News Update 6:40 AfDiagnosis Murder (PG) rica’s Hidden Kingdoms 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 7:30 Movie: “The Gospel AcDeal Or No Deal 6:30 JAG cording To André” (PG) (’17) (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) Stars: André Leon Talley

5:55 Octonauts: Above 5:00 ABC News With 6:30 Operation Ouch!

And Beyond 6:30 Ben Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:00 Horrible Histories And Holly’s Little News Hour 7:00 ABC 7:40 The Penguins Of Kingdom 7:05 Riley Rocket Madagascar 8:00 The Legend National News 7:30 ABC Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Kong: King Evening News 8:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Tonight 8:45 The Business Of The Apes (PG)

5:00 What Chefs Want 6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Food Trail 6:30 Mary Makes It Easy 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Mary Berry’s Love To Cook

12:00 Australian Idol (PG) 1:00 Motorbike Cops (PG) 1:30 Beach Cops (PG) 2:00 Psych (M l,v) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 The 1% Club (PG) 8:30 Mrs. Brown’s Boys (M) 10:00 The Latest Seven News 10:30 Inside Detroit (M l)

12:00 Movie: “Betrayed By My Bridesmaid” (AKA ‘Betrayed Within’) (M v) (’22) Stars: Ashley Dakin 2:00 Your Money & Your Life 2:30 Beach Cops (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 Home And Away (PG) 8:30 The Front Bar (M l) 9:30 The Latest Seven News

4:30 Storage Wars 4:30 Better Homes And (PG) 5:00 American Gardens 5:30 Escape Restoration (PG) 5:30 To The Country 6:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Brown (M) 8:30 The Coroner Counting Cars (PG) (M v)

5:00 What Chefs Want 6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Food Trail 6:30 Mary Makes It Easy 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Paradise Kitchen Bali

2:15 The 2010s: Music On Demand 3:05 Mastermind 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Secrets Of The Tower Of London (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8:35 Death Of An Icon - Marilyn Monroe (MA15+)

4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Football: Matildas v Uzbekistan *Live* 10:30 FBI: International (M v)

2:30 Jake And The 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 6:30 First Dates 4:30 Storage Wars 4:30 Better Homes And Fatman (PG) 3:30 Te Ao With Moana 6:00 Australia (PG) 7:35 (PG) 5:00 American Gardens 5:30 Escape Diagnosis Murder (PG) Bamay 6:30 NITV First Dates UK (M) 8:40 Restoration (PG) 5:30 To The Country 6:30 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares News Update 6:40 Africa’s American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat Deal Or No Deal 6:30 JAG Hidden Kingdoms 7:35 High Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway UK (M l) 9:40 Ramsay’s (PG) 8:45 Lewis (M v) 10:45 (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) Kitchen Nightmares USA (M l) Arctic Haulers Patrol (PG) Maternal (M l,s)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Whale With Steve Backshall 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:25 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Foreign Correspondent 8:30 Grand Designs New Zealand (PG) 9:20 Antiques Roadshow

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Living Alaska 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 8:30 Help!

I Wrecked My House

4:00 Living Alaska 5:00 Flip Or Flop 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Twice The Life For Half The Price

3:35 Movie: “The 4:30 The Addams 6:10 Trip Hazard: My Amorous Prawn” (G) Family 5:00 Bewitched Great British Adventure (’62) Stars: Ian 5:30 I Dream Of (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy!

7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Jeannie 6:00 Everybody Loves Carmichael 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Raymond (PG) 7:00 The Out Of 10 Cats Does Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (M) Countdown (M l,s)

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Explore (PG) 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 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:00 Under Investigation (M) 10:00 NINE News

5:55 Octonauts: Above 5:00 ABC News With 6:30 Operation Ouch!

And Beyond 6:30 Ben Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:00 Horrible Histories And Holly’s Little News Hour 7:00 ABC 7:40 The Penguins Of Kingdom 7:05 Riley Rocket Madagascar 8:00 The Legend National News 7:30 ABC Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Kong: King Evening News 8:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Tonight 8:45 The Business Of The Apes (PG)

4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

3:20 Movie: “Lady With 4:30 The Addams 6:15 The Fast History 5:00 Hidden Gems 6:00 A Lamp” (G) (’51) Stars: Family 5:00 Bewitched Of (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy!

Luke Nguyen’s Food Anna Neagle 5:30 5:30 I Dream Of 7:30 NITV News Trail 6:30 Mary Makes It Easy 7:00 The Cook Up With Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Jeannie 6:00 Everybody Loves Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Raymond (PG) 7:00 The Adam Liaw 7:30 Malaysia Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) Death In Paradise (M) Gourmet With Justine Schofield Taskmaster (M l)

6:30 First Dates 4:30 Storage Wars 4:30 Better Homes And Australia (PG) 7:35 (PG) 5:00 American Gardens 5:30 Escape First Dates UK (M s) Restoration (PG) 5:30 To The Country 6:30 8:40 Movie: “Never Been Bargain Hunt 7:30 Rosemary & American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Thyme (PG) 8:30 A Touch Of Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Kissed” (PG) (’99) Stars: Drew Barrymore Truckers (PG) Frost (M l,v)

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:40 Media Watch 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:25 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering (PG)

2:05 Daniel O’Donnell: I Need You (PG) 3:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Every Family Has A Secret (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy!

(PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Finding Your Roots (M v) 8:30 The 2010s (MA15+)

2:25 Mysteries Of The Sphinx (PG) 3:15 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Secrets Of The Tower Of London (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy!

(PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Scottish Islands With Ben Fogle (PG) 8:40 The Matchmakers (PG)

4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

2:30 The Block (PG) 4:00 Living Alaska 5:00 Holiday Homes In The Sun 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town

5:30 Yorkshire Auction 4:30 The Addams 6:10 Trip Hazard: My House 6:30 Antiques Family 5:00 Bewitched Great British Adventure Roadshow 7:30 As 5:30 I Dream Of (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy!

7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Jeannie 6:00 Everybody Loves Time Goes By (M) 8:40 Midsomer Murders (M l,v) Raymond (PG) 7:00 The Out Of 10 Cats Does Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 10:40 Forensics (MA15+) Countdown (M l,s)

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 My Way 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 RBT (PG) 8:30 TBA 9:30 TBA 10:30 NINE News Late 11:00 Chicago Med (M)

1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Judge Judy (PG) 2:00 Dr Phil (M) 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 8:30 Gogglebox Australia (M)

3:15 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Secrets Of The Tower Of London (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 DNA Family Secrets (PG) 8:40 Psychedelics - Stepping Into The Unknown (M l) 9:40 Culprits (MA15+)

4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 2:30 Jake And The 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 6:30 10 Years Younger Frasier (PG) 6:00 Deal Fatman (PG) 3:30 The 77 Percent 6:00 In 10 Days (PG) 7:30 Or No Deal 6:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) Bamay 6:30 NITV First Dates UK (M) 8:35 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares News Update 6:40 Africa’s Deal Or No Deal 6:30 JAG (M) Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two Hidden Kingdoms (PG) 7:30 UK (M l) 9:35 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (M l) Going Places With Ernie Dingo 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (PG) And A Half Men (PG)

4:00 Living Alaska 5:00 Restored By The Fords 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 House Hunters Renovation

5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I 6:10 Trip Hazard: My Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 Great British Adventure Everybody Loves (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy!

7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Raymond (PG) 7:00 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Survivor 46 Out Of 10 Cats Does (PG) Countdown (M l,s)

3:35 Movie: “She’ll Have To Go” (PG) (’62) Stars: Anna Karina 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Keeping Up Appearances (M)

5:00 What Chefs Want 5:55 Octonauts: Above 5:00 ABC News With 6:30 Operation Ouch!

6:00 Luke Nguyen’s And Beyond 6:30 Ben Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:00 Horrible Histories Food Trail 6:30 Mary And Holly’s Little News Hour 7:00 ABC 7:40 The Penguins Of Makes It Easy 7:00 The Cook Kingdom 7:05 Riley Rocket Madagascar 8:00 The Legend National News 7:30 ABC Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Kong: King Evening News 8:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 My Greatest Dishes Would I Lie To You? (PG) Tonight 8:45 The Business Of The Apes (PG)

Programming information correct at time of going to press, changes are at the network’s discretion Prepared by National Typesetting Services

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

63

Pick up a copy of the paper

weekendeFrree THE GREATEST the western

Lifesttyle Home&L

Brought to you by

Friday, October

Brian To’o and Jarome Luai.

Photo: NRL Images.

F CT PERFE POT ANTS PLA

7, 2022

www.westernweeken

der.com.au

PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS

P

enrith’s greatest ever period of success has delivered the once struggling club a second straight Premiership and confirmed the Panthers rugby league juggernaut.are an unstoppable It is impossible to argue with James Fisher-Harris’ cheeky claim that this is Penrith team of all-time. They are the best an unpreceden delivering ted sustained period of success and have lost just 10 games three seasons, in the past breaking countless along the way. records Coach Ivan Cleary Nathan have also and his co-captain son entered Panthers tality, creating immorall sorts of history in what one of the greatest Premiership defences was game has ever seen. the Ivan is now the only won dual Premiership Penrith coach to have s with the club, just 24 Nathan while at is on club’s greatest ever his way to becoming the player.

But Cleary was overshadowed Final night by on Grand a stunning performanc fullback Dylan e from Edwards, who claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match.

Penrith players and fans partied and hard into long the night after Sunday’s 28-12 demolition of Parramatta.

It was a definitive game of this incredible Penrith era and proved the club’s dominance of over the past three the competition seasons.

It was billed as the the West in history greatest Battle of but kick-off it was obvious almost from the Parramatta were little chance of stopping a switched Penrith. on Eels fans were barely in their seats by time it was obvious the trophy was stayingthe the foot of the Mountains. at Penrith has emerged from an 18-year drought and near title collapse to now more Grand Final have two wins, and show slowing down. no sign of The scenes at Panthers Leagues Club after the game and at a fan Bet Stadium prove day on Monday at Bluethis over the community Penrith team has won .

From Bathurst to cially own the west Blacktown, Penrith offi– the result of hard taking a chance and a playing group work, taken the NRL by that has storm.

| SEE PAGE 62 GHTEN UP YOUR HOME

Mark STEVENSON

You can pick up the latest copy of the Weekender at the following locations each week:

Crosswords & PUZZLES

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SEE PAGE 72

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PANTHER

PARTY A

Ivan and Nathan Cleary.

Photo: NRL Images.

THE FOOD YOURR PETS HAVE BEEN EN WAITING G FOR! R! Scan the QR code for 10% OFF EXTRA RA TIME AWARDS your first

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64

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

WW48421

Ampol Service Station

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MAKING A SPLASH! A WEEKEND AWAY IN WOLLONGONG | SEE PAGES 78-79

In the MIRROR

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Your HOROSCOPES SEE PAGE 77

Crosswords & PUZZLES

SEE PAGES 80-82

Selling, buying or renting?

Contact our award-winning team today!

PETER DIAMANTIDIS Director | Selling Principal

51371

9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR

FEATURE STORY Western Property

YOU’LL LIKE THE SOUND OF THIS NEW WALLPAPER! S

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“WE’RE EXCITED TO BRING THIS TO THE MARKET” The new Soundlina acoustic woodgrain wallpaper range is designed

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Diamond is a decorative surface that uses Smart NANO technology. It features a reinforced top layer, ensuring it retains its premium quality finish even in the toughest interior environments. The surface’s non-PVC olefin film is 3D-embossed with a textural woodgrain structure, providing a beautiful natural aesthetic.

Soundlina perforated acoustic wallpaper is available for interior use only in a roll width of 600mm and 9850mm in length.

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ORAN PARK

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

WWW.ORANPARK.COM.AU TO SEE WHAT IS FOR SALE OPEN FOR INSPECTION Seven days by appointment

ORAN PARK OPPORTUNITY Oran Park began as a vision to build one of Australia’s most liveable suburbs.

Today, Oran Park is quickly becoming an address like no other, offering the benefits of contemporary living and an evolving town square that features an array of modern amenities.

A vibrant work in progress, Oran Park is continuing to expand. By 2041, the suburb is estimated to be home to almost 250,000 people, compared to the current population of 120,028.

As Oran Park continues to grow and thrive, the vision is simple: to be an internationally recognised suburb that sets the benchmark

for quality, master-planned communities.

With a community spirit built on inclusion and diversity, the homes and lifestyle are informed by sustainability, health and wellbeing.

Australia’s leading architects and town planners have been commissioned to design a suburb alive with urban conveniences.

From easy access to transport links and the integration of essential services such as healthcare and education to employment hubs and a modern retail and shopping precinct.

To find out more go to oranprak. com.au.

CONTACT Oran Park Sales Office Jeff Webb • 9043 7500 jeff.webb@greenfields.net.au

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: 0407 278 384

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

67

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.® OFFICE: 233 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750

81 College Street, Cambridge Park

3

32A & 32B Braddon Street, Oxley Park

Garage + Carport

1.5

JUST LISTED

Teenage

3+ Retreat

1.5

Inspection: 11am-11:45am

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

13/213 Derby Street, Penrith

2+

2

DUPLEX

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

26 Gadara Drive, South Penrith

3

Brand new Torrens Title (no strata) Downstairs bedroom/ bathroom Home buyers / investors Potential rent $950 $1000pw 2km approx to St Marys Station

This FULLY RENOVATED home is ideally suited for family living or investment purposes.

Positioned in a sought-after pocket of Cambridge Park. Fully renovated, this home offers 3 generous-sized BRs, exquisite kitchen with beautiful splashbacks, island benchtops, 40mm stone benchtops and stainless-steel appliances.

Walking distance to Kingswood Station, schools, shops, parks, and close to Nepean Hospital and only a short drive to Penrith CBD & St Marys CBD. Price: $890K - $940K Inspection: Call Agent

JUST LISTED

4

2

1

1

• 3 generous-sized BRs, 2 with BIRs • Natural light-filled living room with s/s a/c • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar plus ample storage • Main bathroom with separate bath & shower • Internal laundry with 2nd toilet • Well maintained large above ground pool • Spacious front and backyard • Covered alfresco area • Concreted driveway • 758.5sqm block • Shops, schools, cafes and eateries as well as a variety of nearby transport options • Zoned R2, granny flat potential (STCA)

• 2 generous-sized BRs • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar & ample storage • Separate bath & shower • Internal laundry • Split system air conditioning • Spacious & sunny balcony • Secure lock-up garage • Currently tenanted with tenants happy to stay • Penrith CBD, Penrith Station, shops, cafes and eateries as well as a variety of nearby transport options all within walking distance.

Sale: $890K - $940K Inspection: Call Agent

PROPERTY LAUNCH: Saturday, 24th Feb Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

SOLD Very Happy Seller

JUST LISTED

PERTH, WA

3

2

1

1

1

1

Gizzelle Powell is a Real Estate legend!

“ Gizzelle is always helpful, informative and prompt.

She helped us out at every point in the process and has been in touch for the few years we entertained selling the house.

Sold the house in a short time for a better price than expected! ” Brooke and Glenn 127 Wrench Street, Cambridge Park

Verified by RateMyAgent

25/1-5 Regentville Road, Jamisontown

3

2.5

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Potential rent: $870 per week Dual living (house & granny)

Thinking of Selling, Buying or Investing?

Call or SMS Gizzelle on 0428 934 618

SMSF

1

3

2

1

1

House & Granny

• 3 generous sized BRs, all fitted with BIs • Main BR with ensuite & spacious balcony with amazing views • 2nd BR with private balcony • Natural light-filled living room with access to the balcony • Freshly painted with newly installed sliding doors • Modern kitchen with ample storage, breakfast bar, stone benchtops, gas cooktop & s/s appliances • Main bathroom tiled up to the ceiling with separate shower & bathtub • Powder room downstairs • Internal laundry • 2 x split system a/c • NBN ready

JUST LISTED

PROPERTY LAUNCH: Saturday, 24th Feb Inspection: Call Agent

$710,000 Potential rent: $870 per week

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

2/171-173 Derby Street, Penrith

2

1

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

15 Emu Street, Raymond Terrace

1

2

Sold at First Open Home

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

68

Gizzelle Powell

0428 934 618

Litsa Meleti

0466 969 164 0

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

1

1

Only 2 remaining

If you are considering selling your property, please contact Gizzelle Powell on 0428 934 618 today for a confidential discussion and market appraisal.

Put Our Winning Team to Work

1

Completing soon First Home Buyers/Investors

Peter Parker

0408 432 998

Uzrah Bi 0435 205 061

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Teeannah Camilleri 0424 823 911

Victor Borg

0439 755 081 1

Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains AUCTION TOMORROW

104 Hindmarsh Street, Cranebrook

3

Going To Auction 24th February

AUCTION

• Appealing 3 bedroom brick home set for Auction • Spacious lounge & dining areas with lots of natural light • Galley-style kitchen, ample cupboards & bench space • Upgraded bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiling • Close to Cranebrook shopping complex, local schools & sporting fields

OPEN HOME

AUCTION Tomorrow 24 Feb at 12:30pm On Site CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

163 Andromeda Drive, Cranebrook

LI NEW ST IN G

8 Cotula Place, Glenmore Park

INSPECT Sat 24 February at 12:15pm ADDRESS 104 Hindmarsh Street, Cranebrook

• Elevated fully fenced 560m2 allotment

OPEN HOME

1

3

This Could Be Home!

• Beautiful 3 bedroom brick home is located in Glenmore Park estate • Spacious open living design • Large kitchen with ample cupboards & bench space • 3 good-sized bedrooms with carpet flooring • Quiet cul-de-sac location

FOR SALE

1

1

$845,000 INSPECT Sat 24 February at 10:30am - 11:00am ADDRESS 8 Cotula Place, Glenmore Park CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

You Will Love This One! • Beautiful 3 bedroom brick home • Freshly painted throughout • Large kitchen with an array of features • Spacious open living design • Huge U/C entertaining area • Single lock-up garage

10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood

OPEN HOME

3

Beautiful & Modern

Beautiful, Stylish & Modern • Modern 2-storey 3 bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite & WIR to main • Large modern kitchen & bathroom • Ducted A/C throughout • 1 of 10 in complex, street frontage

2

1

$659,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

3

1

1

$749,990 – $779,990 INSPECT Sat 24 February at 11:30am - 12:00pm ADDRESS 163 Andromeda Drive, Cranebrook CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

56/144 High Street, Penrith

2

• Stunning modern 2 bedroom unit • Spacious open living design • Gorgeous modern kitchen with S/S appliances • 2 great-sized bedrooms, stylish ensuite to main • Large balcony with northern aspect • Currently returning $380 per week in rent

2

1

$529,950 INSPECT Sat 24 February at 9:30am - 10:00am ADDRESS 56/144 High Street, Penrith CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

69

APARTME

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FI

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ACT NOW! N

OW

SELLI

NG

ORAN PARK

This is your last opportunity to secure a luxury apartment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the heart of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apartment features ample floor space, sophisticated style 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 cooktop, rangehood, built-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

•

Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

•

Ground floor entry, two levels of secure parking and a communal rooftop with barbeque facilities

3

2

2

Interior

111sqm

Exterior

33sqm

Total

144sqm

Price

$829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

70

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

View the Display Apartment by appointment Open 9am – 5pm | Cnr Oran Park Dr & Peter Brock Dr, Oran Park

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Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

71

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

WHY SHOULD LEARNING TO SWIM BE A PRIORITY? W

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

ith sign up for winter sports currently underway, I wanted to remind parents of all the benefits of Learn To Swim, and why it is important to swim all year round alongside any other sport and activities in our busy family schedules!

Learning to swim is an activity that offers numerous benefits for children beyond simply staying safe in water. From physical health to mental wellbeing, swimming provides a holistic approach to a child’s development in a way that no other sport or activity can match.

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that engages the entire body, improving cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, and enhancing flexibility. Swimming is low-impact, making it suitable for children of all ages and fitness levels, and regular swimming sessions can help combat childhood obesity and promote a healthy lifestyle from an early age.

The most obvious benefit of learning to swim is water safety. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death in children of all ages, and teaching kids how to swim reduces the risk significantly. Knowing how to float, tread water, and perform basic strokes can save lives in emergency

situations. Moreover, understanding water safety rules instils confidence and promotes responsible behaviour around water. Learning to swim empowers children and boosts their self-confidence. Overcoming the initial fear of water and mastering new skills gives them a sense of achievement. As children progress in their swimming abilities, they gain confidence not only in the pool but also

in other areas of their lives. This newfound confidence can translate into improved social interactions, academic performance, and overall wellbeing!

Learn to Swim lessons are often a child’s very first structured activity. Swimming has therapeutic effects on children’s emotional wellbeing. The soothing nature of water calms their minds and reduces stress and anxiety. Swimming releases endorphins and also provides an outlet for pent-up energy and emotions, helping children manage their emotions more effectively. Plus, swimming lessons provide opportunities for children to socialise and make new friends!

Swimming is a life skill that opens up a world of opportunities for children. It enables them to participate in water-based activities such as snorkelling, surfing, and kayaking. Strong swimming skills can lead to future endeavours such as lifeguarding, competitive swimming.

By introducing children to swimming at an early age and allowing children to consistently swim all year round, parents provide their children with a foundation for a healthy and fulfilling life both in and out of the water.

A break from lessons often leads to skill regression, undoing some of the progress made prior to time out of the water.

TECH

FITBIT SENSE 2: MY THOUGHTS

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

itbit offered me a competitive upgrade price to their new flagship health and fitness tracking smartwatch. The Sense 2 is designed to help you manage stress, sleep better, and live healthier with its advanced health and fitness features. The Sense 2 has many similar but improved features compared to my previous smartwatch, the Sense 1.

The Sense 2 has a sleek, minimalist design, with a round stainless steel case and a silicone band. The case is thinner and lighter than my original Sense, making it more comfortable.

It has a 1.58-inch AMOLED touch screen with a 336 x 336 pixels resolution. The bright and colourful screen has adaptive brightness and always-on display options. The screen is also more responsive than the previous model, thanks to the improved processor and software.

Here are some of its key fitness tracking and health features:

• Advanced Health Tracking: ECG app for on-demand atrial fibrillation (AFib) assessment, irregular rhythm notifications, SpO2 monitoring, skin temperature tracking, and all-day stress monitoring with an EDA sensor.

• Sleep Analysis: Deep dive into your sleep stages with Sleep Score, detailed breakdowns, and Sleep Profile insights.

• Fitness Tracking: Built-in GPS, 20+ goalbased exercise modes, activity and calorie burn tracking, and workout intensity maps.

• Mindfulness Tools: Guided breathing exercises, mindfulness sessions, and stress management tools.

• Smartphone notifications and voice assistant support.

Fitbit is now owned by Google and, as such, now includes a few Google features. One of these is

The Experts

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

Google Maps – you can now access turn-by-turn directions right on your wrist. Google Wallet allows you to make secure contactless payments using your smartwatch. The Sense 2 also supports Alexa voice support, allowing setting notifications or alarms by voice command.

One of the features I really like is the Sense 2 has a battery life of up to six days, depending on your usage and settings. Also, charging the unit takes less than 20 minutes to charge back to full. Its biggest competitor is the Google Pixel watch, which is now integrated into the Fitbit ecosystem and will display the stats in the Fitbit app.

HEALTH The Experts

MOVEMENT AS A KEY TO MANAGING ARTHRITIS A

FRANK DO One Point Health 4732 5188

rthritis, often associated with terms like degeneration and wear and tear, need not be a roadblock that halts our daily activities. As a chiropractor, I’ve witnessed far too many individuals succumb to the misconception that limiting movement is the solution.

However, avoiding physical activity due to fear can exacerbate the problem, making joints stiffer and weakening surrounding muscles.

It’s a pervasive issue – a lack of accurate information and proper guidance on managing arthritis.

Contrary to the notion of wear and tear suggesting that increased use worsens the condition, numerous studies and reputable organisations advocate for movement as a beneficial and positive approach to arthritis management. Many people, despite an arthritis diagnosis, continue to lead fulfilling lives, engaging in activities they love and need.

Why is movement crucial? Joints contain fluid, and one way to nourish them is through movement. Engaging in motion delivers fresh nutrients

to the joints while expelling old nutrients and waste products. If pain and swelling hinder your regular movements, a strategic approach is essential. Start with gentle, non-aggravating exercises and make them a regular part of your routine. As pain diminishes, gradually incorporate strengthening exercises to support the muscles around the joint.

Progress to more challenging activities, using regression as needed, until you comfortably resume your desired activities.

In essence, don’t allow an arthritis diagnosis to dictate a sedentary lifestyle. Instead, use the diagnosis as a guide to tailor movements around your symptoms. The key is to understand that movement is not your adversary; it is a powerful ally in the journey to managing arthritis.

By embracing a thoughtful and gradual approach, you can regain the strength and flexibility needed to continue doing the things you love. It’s time to empower ourselves with knowledge and move towards a healthier, more active future, even in the face of arthritis.

BROKING BREAKDOWN

I

n recent years, there’s been an explosion of buy now, pay later initiatives – allow you to essentially split the cost of a purchase over a number of payments, usually four equal instalments.

On the surface, this can be a great alternative to a credit card – especially if you handle your finances well.

But concepts like Afterpay and ZipPay have now evolved, and people can even put small $50 purchases through these apps. The risk is you lose track and it potentially has a financial impact.

So, can using these services impact your home loan?

The short answer is yes.

If you happen to default on your payments, these services reserve the right to report you to credit agencies – and your credit is generally checked by a broker or bank when applying for your home loan.

And if you happen to have linked your credit card to your Afterpay, for example,

and there’s not enough funds to clear the payment – you can suddenly have a default on your credit card.

Some buy now, pay later transactions are indeed included on your credit report because these services are, at the end of the day, offering credit.

Now like anything, if you manage these services properly and you can demonstrate that you’re handling the commitments without an issue, then it shouldn’t be a problem.

Most of the time your buy now, pay later expenses will be treated like any other expense.

Importantly, the entire available limit of any buy now, pay later facility is usually considered as a

MARK STEVENSON Bell Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

monthly commitment – not just what you’re spending.

So if your Afterpay limit is $3,000, the bank will consider a $3000 commitment in your expenses.

My advice? Talk to a broker.

They’ll know if buy now, pay later transactions and your behaviour around them are going to have an impact on your application for a home loan and can work with you to develop the best strategy.

This is especially important given some lenders have a hard policy that they won’t lend to anyone who has a buy now, pay later facility available.

I’m certainly not suggesting you don’t use these services, but it must be done with responsibility.

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IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce Some of the best beauty products released so far in a busy start to 2024

W

e’re just two months into the year, and already so many incredibly exciting products have been released in the beauty space.

If you’re looking to spice up your morning routine, here are some of my favourites.

Mecca Max Off Duty Serum Liquid Blushes and Highlighters Mecca Max kicked off the year by expanding their all-star Off Duty collection, with the launch of the Off Duty Serum Liquid Blushes and Highlighters.

With six blushes and two highlighters in the range, there’s something for every skin colour and undertone, and an ingredients list including niacinamide, squalane and hyaluronic acid only adding to the appeal.

Though I think I’ll get the most use out of the shades Peachy and Champagne, I’ve really been loving the blush shade Spice on the cheeks (with a very light hand), and the highlighter in the shade Bronze used as a liquid eyeshadow for more glam looks.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System in Malibu Pink After the Malibu Pink version of the Shark FlexStyle absolutely took over in the US last year, the limited edition

colourway has finally made its way to Australia, and I am completely obsessed!

The Shark FlexStyle in Malibu Pink retails for $399, $100 less than its original counterpart, however it doesn’t come with a diffuser, and is stored in a pouch rather than the solid case. If you’re someone who’s been wanting a FlexStyle for the other attachments – including the iconic auto-wrap curlers – and you love the new colour as much as I do, I would really recommend picking it up.

But, stock will be limited, so be sure to get in quick!

Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 59 Perfume Mist and Delícia Drench Body Butter Sol de Janeiro has a

ing any wolf spiders your way.

If you love the smell and the formula, give it a try.

c u lt-l i ke follow ing for a reason, with a line up of delicious smelling body butters and perfume mist that you just can’t bypass.

Earlier this year, they introduced a brand-new addition to their permanent collection, with the Cheirosa 59 Perfume Mist and complementing Delícia Drench Body Butter.

Though these releases didn’t come without controversy, with it still being the first thing to come up when you search ‘spider moisturiser’ on Google, the brand confirmed that though it may attract attention from people, it won’t be send-

Rhode Skin Lip Case This product isn’t available in Australia just yet, but I can’t not give a shout out to the new Rhode Skin Lip Case.

In a time when the lipstick effect is in full swing, Hailey Bieber has created a product to make it even more glamorous, in the form of a phone case designed to hold your lip gloss.

The days of carrying a wallet around are over, with ever y thing from your ID to your credit card available at the touch of a finger, so this is a great next step!

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

PET HEALTH The Experts

THE PROS AND CONS OF PET INSURANCE A

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

s our furry companions become integral members of our families, the debate over whether to invest in pet insurance or opt for a dedicated emergency fund for our pets continues to gain traction. Both options have their merits and drawbacks and requires careful consideration and analysis to be fully understood.

One of the primary advantages of pet insurance is the peace of mind it offers. Unexpected veterinary bills can be financially taxing, and pet insurance helps alleviate this stress by covering a portion of the medical expenses. This can be especially beneficial in the case of emergencies, surgeries, or chronic illnesses. Moreover, pet insurance often provides

coverage for routine care, vaccinations, and preventive treatments, promoting proactive pet healthcare.

However, pet insurance comes with its share of cons. Monthly premiums can add up over time, especially for owners with multiple pets. Additionally, some policies may have restrictions on coverage, excluding certain breeds or pre-existing conditions. This raises the critical issue of pre-existing conditions, referring to health issues

that exist before obtaining insurance. Many policies do not cover these conditions, making it essential for pet owners to thoroughly understand the terms of coverage.

On the other hand, many pet owners are opting to set up a special savings account for their pets to allow greater financial flexibility and control. By consistently contributing to a designated pet emergency fund, owners can tailor their savings strategy to their pet’s unique needs. This approach

ensures that funds are available when required, without the limitations or exclusions that may come with insurance policies.

However, the downside lies in the discipline required to consistently contribute to and maintain the fund.

Pet insurance policies often come with excess payments, similar to deductibles in human health insurance. This is the amount the policyholder must pay before the insurance coverage kicks in. While higher excess

payments may result in lower monthly premiums, they can lead to substantial out-of-pocket expenses during a vet visit. Balancing the excess payment and monthly premium is crucial to finding a cost-effective insurance plan.

The decision to invest in pet insurance or create a dedicated emergency fund hinges on individual circumstances and preferences. Pet owners must carefully evaluate their pet’s health, breed predispositions, and the financial implications of both options. Whether opting for insurance or a fund, the key lies in proactive planning to ensure the well-being of our beloved four-legged companions.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE Boho Astro bohoastro.com @JoMadelineMoore © Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Jupiter and Uranus send disruptions in your direction (especially involving domestic and family matters) plus Mars demands that you stop being stubborn and start being more adventurous. The only certainty at the moment is change!

You’re feeling ridiculously restless but try to modify your reactions, otherwise it will be a long and tiring week. Just because you’re in the process of shaking up your life doesn’t mean you have to unsettle everyone around you.

The Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune are transiting through your sign. So you’re emanating some serious charisma this week! Make sure you celebrate the creative and compassionate Piscean within via writing, singing dancing, drawing, painting, playing music or helping others. But resist the temptation to spill secrets and blurt out something inappropriate – especially to a relative or neighbour. Friday favours short trips and fun community connections.

Impulsive, feisty planets Mars and Jupiter are stirring up your horoscope, so prepare for a challenging week full of inconvenient disruptions and dramatic surprises. Being a hot-headed, rambunctious (or rude) Ram will just land you in a heap of trouble … especially involving friendships or financial matters. Simmer down, before you say or do something that you later regret. You’ll find cool cooperation will get you a lot further than fiery confrontation.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

With so many planets in Pisces and Aquarius, being flexible is the key to a successful week. If you are too stubborn and unyielding in your opinions, then others will just stop listening to what you have to say. And if you are too slow off the mark (and hesitant to take action) then others will streak ahead of you, especially at work. So your motto is from fellow Taurean, actress Shirley MacLaine, “Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb. It’s where all the fruit is.”

You’re keen to connect with others as four planets activate your career zone. It’s a terrific time to converse and communicate, text and tweet. People are waiting to hear what you’ve got to say as you brainstorm your creative ideas.

Mercury (your ruling planet) makes positive links with the Sun, Saturn and Jupiter, so stop procrastinating and start delivering! Be inspired by birthday great, writer and illustrator Dr Seuss, “Only you can control your future.”

Cancer folk can be super cautious … spending too much time at home in your cosy comfort zone. But this week – with the Sun, Mercury, Saturn, Neptune and Jupiter all activating your travel and adventure zone – it’s time to crawl out of your Crab cave and be much more adventurous. Be inspired by Hollywood movie star (and birthday great) Elizabeth Taylor, “There are so many doors to be opened, and I’m not afraid to look behind them.”

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Librans long for peace and harmony.

You want everything to run smoothly this week, but it may not happen! Relationships will be unpredictable and loved ones disruptive, so revise your expectations and just take things as they come. With four planets activating your daily routine zone, look for exciting ways to expand your influence in the world around you. You’ll find the more you extend yourself and encourage others, the more successful you’ll be.

Don’t be too set in the way you think the week should develop. With Mars and Uranus shaking things up, expect last-minute delays or disruptions that will keep you on your toes! Attached Virgos – take the time to talk through problems with your sweetheart. Singles – look beyond the exterior package that a potential partner presents. Killer curves or bulging biceps may seem enticing but – if the two of you can’t communicate well – it’s just not going to last.

Librans long for peace and harmony.

You want everything to run smoothly this week, but it may not happen! Relationships will be unpredictable and loved ones disruptive, so revise your expectations and just take things as they come. With four planets activating your daily routine zone, look for exciting ways to expand your influence in the world around you. You’ll find the more you extend yourself and encourage others, the more successful you’ll be.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The stars favour decorating, re-designing or renovating your home environment, and some Scorpios will move house. But are you brooding on the past … and kicking yourself for romantic or career opportunities you’ve missed along the way? It’s time to learn from your mistakes and move on. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Johnny Cash, “Close the door on the past.

You don’t forget the mistakes, but you don’t dwell on them.”

Four planets (including Saturn) are stirring up your domestic zone, and disruptive Mars squares your ruler Jupiter. Which could rattle your composure, fire up your frustrations, and amplify any family problems you’re facing at the moment. But don’t waste your time (and everyone else’s) with endless complaining. Instead, be inspired by movie legend (and birthday great) Elizabeth Taylor, “Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.”

This week the Sun, Mercury and Saturn encourage you to listen to loved ones closely and keep the channels of communication open. Is a family member going through a rough patch?

Don’t lecture them! Strive to help them in compassionate and generous ways.

But it may be time to be more proactive about money matters and reformulate your financial plans. When it comes to work and business, it’s much better to under-promise and then over-deliver.

VOICEOVERS ON HOLD MESSAGES RADIO COMMERCIALS & ALL OTHER AUDIO info@hourmedia.com.au www.happyhourmedia.com.au Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

77

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Wollongong

WORDS

Ellie Busby

IMAGES Supplied

MORE INFO

(02) 9069 5528

NEWCOMER MAKING A W

ollongong – AKA ‘The Gong’ – has long been a favourite weekend getaway for those out west. And with its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it remains a go-to summer staycation.

Just an hour-and-a-half drive from Penrith, I recently took a trip down to Wollongong to stay at Hotel TOTTO. Providing industrial-style, modern accommodation, Hotel TOTTO is located smack bang in the middle of the coastal city.

Walking across the street takes you directly to Wollongong Central, a shopping centre bustling with eateries and high street retailers – perfectly situated for those in desperate need of some retail therapy.

Just down the road is WIN Stadium, which has hosted everything from massive sporting events to music legends like Crowded House.

And, most importantly, the beach is a mere 15-minute walk from your doorstep.

But it’s not just the prime location that makes Hotel TOTTO a must-stay – it’s the high-class hospitality delivered with a friendly smile.

From the minute I arrive, I notice the laidback vibe of the hotel. Check-in is an easy process, and with Hotel TOTTO’s self-serve kiosks I don’t have to deal with the queues that sometimes come with checking-in at peak times.

Staff are more than eager to give recommendations on where to go for food and entertainment in Wollongong, and suddenly I have a list of local joints to check out.

Heading up to my room for the weekend, I discovered a bright and cosy space, accented with earthy tones.

Although its minimalistic in styling, the room still comes with all the bells and whistles, including a comfortable bed, air-con, a smart TV and plenty of bathroom amenities to wash help wash off a day at the beach.

Before leaving the hotel to explore Wollongong’s food scene, I headed downstairs to in-house restaurant and bar BASTA Trattoria, to make the most out of happy hour – and I was not disappointed.

The restaurant provides plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy the great selection of cocktails on offer, from the outdoor

The modern rooms on offer at Hotel TOTTO.

78

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

Breakfast at BASTA Trattoria.

terrace to the bar-top seating and chic main dining area. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks, BASTA Trattoria’s menu is inspired by Mediterranean and Italian flavours.

“YOU’D BE HARD-PRESSED TO FIND A HOTEL THAT DOES IT BETTER.”

Venturing out, I walked down to the beach to take in the beautiful sunset, before heading to Steamers Bar and Grill for some delicious fish and chips.

The next morning, after a relaxing sleep-in, it was back to BASTA Trattoria to try out its breakfast menu. Don’t expect a basic continental here – with everything from smoked salmon on sourdough and Belgian waffles to a tasty granola bowl, it felt more like brunch at

a very Instagramable café than a hotel dining room.

Then, it was time to head down to the waves, where I spent most of the day diving in and out of the water, reading on the beach and soaking up the sun – truly the best way to refresh after a long week.

I often find one of the worst things about heading to the beach is the long drive home in wet swimmers and sand in my hair, but staying at Hotel TOTTO by-passed that problem altogether.

All it took was a short walk and then I was back in my room where I could refresh and relax without stressing about being caught up in traffic.

After a quick pit-stop for ice cream, it was time to head back to the hotel for dinner.

Whereas breakfast was more of a laidback dining experience, dinner is where BASTA Trattoria really comes to life.

Featuring amazing live music and a menu to die for, I started off with some house marinated olives and the rosemary and garlic pizzetta – one of the most popular items on the menu I’m told. The mains were the pesto and zucchini orecchiette and prawn and roasted

TRAVEL

SPLASH IN THE GONG

Cocktails at BASTA Trattoria.

tomato casarecce.

There’s no better way to wrap up a long day at the beach than with a solid serving of carbs, and BASTA Trattoria certainly delivered. Both pasta dishes were jam-packed full of flavour and expertly cooked, so kudos to the chefs.

To balance out the savoury, I ordered the vanilla panna cotta and strawberry compote for dessert, which was definitely

Hotel TOTTO in Wollongong.

The sophisticated bathrooms at Hotel TOTTO.

the right way to end the night.

Despite being relatively new to the scene, Hotel TOTTO has already established a reputation as the ultimate getaway destination for those who want to experience the very best of Wollongong.

And with everything you need within arm’s reach, you’d be hard-pressed to find a hotel that does it better.

Visit www.hoteltotto.com.

The indoor dining space at BASTA Trattoria.

I I

I

I Your online range of beauty products

bringthebling.com.au Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

79

Word Search brought to you by Merv Shipp Smash Repairs mervshipp.com.au | 4731 4587

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82. Halfway golf hole 80. Point of sale (1,1,1) 84. The R of HRH Sort Previous solution83.

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Sudoku brought to you by Ray White St Marys raywhitedg.com.au

SUDOKU No. 683

2

Very Hard

Previous solution - Tough

7 1 4 2 3 9 8 1 02 9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS NSW 2760 5 6 2 3 02 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR NSW 2759 2 8 3 5 9 7 1 8 6 4 5 7 4 5 7 9 1 3 9 6 8 2 6 4

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5 2 8 5 4 1 3 3 6 7 5

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, 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 The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

80

6

5 2 9 5 8

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

9

© 2024 Syndicated Puzzles

Crossword

1

8 4 9 6 3 1 2 7 5

6 5 7 9 4 2 1 8 3

5 7 4 1 6 8 3 2 9

3 6 1 4 2 9 8 5 7

9 2 8 7 5 3 6 4 1

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

Servicing the Blacktown and Penrith Regions 0404 051 702

Peter Diamantidis Director Selling Principal

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

Theme: SHAKESPEARE ACTOR ALONSO ANNE HATHAWAY AVON BARD CORIOLANUS CRESSIDA DUNCAN ELIZABETHAN HENRY IV HISTORIES JACOBEAN JUDITH JULIUS CAESAR KATHERINE LYSANDER PLAYWRIGHT POET PUBLISHED PUCK ROMANCES ROMEO SONNET THE TEMPEST TITUS ANDRONICUS TROILUS WARWICKSHIRE

Last week’s solution E G D E S K C T C P P P W P R C R A S H L O N A U O A A Q E D E N G U R C E R D L S C H D R V L T G L L M M H S T T K R S E C K O L M A Y E H F U T U E H D U C R E I L R R I E R M D D D W A A Y L Y D E R C O E R N I H O R C R A O W D A O E O A C R E L Y A Y S D C R P O V B W T P N C P L V N D B M S E C T M O K N O T Y E V O C W S A A L R E T T I L S B E Z A B E O S C H O O L R S T I B R T C L S T S O U N D E R Q R M X C N O I T A R U M R U M U T

A R W T H G I R W Y A L P E B T A A O E D R A B D Y O L L E H S R S N O E M D S U I F N R E E W N R R P H A I Z N I C G T A I O Y O H N S A S R C R N E C C L I M D I B I E S O A E M S K A V E F E S H L M E C N P U S G R O T U T T A B W R K E I H E H H L A E N O C U R C S L I I A I K N C C N R T P U T U R N O P N E A V O N I O P E J E R S O S J U D I T H E R T I T U S A N D R O N I C U S Y A W A H T A H E N N A E B T Q N E C O R I O L A N U S S N Trivia Quiz Test your knowledge about rugby league’s World Club Challenge in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. In what year was the World Club Challenge concept first played?

2. In what year did the English team first win the World Club Challenge?

3. The Roosters won back-to-back World Club Challenge titles in 2019 and 2020. They scored the same number of points in each

game. How many points did they score?

4. Which team has won the most World Club Challenge titles?

5. How many times has Bradford won the title?

6. In what year did Penrith Stadium host the World Club Challenge, with the Panthers playing St Helens?

ANSWERS 1. 1976 2. 1987 3. 20 4. Roosters 5. Three 6. 2023

Word Search

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81

Test Your Brain brought to you by My88, Your home of the eighties! my88.com.au | 0401 222 088

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOK Medium

2 1 3 2 5 6 7 8 4 6 6 5 1 5 3 4 9 3 7 2 7 8

1 9

4

3 3

7 5 8 1 6 7 2 5 6

© 2024 Syndicated Puzzles

9

5 8

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Hexwords

No. 683

Previous solution - Easy

4 3

Str8ts, Hexwords & Name the Movie brought to you by Choices Flooring Penrith

Str8ts

No. 683

6 5 7 6 7 4 1 8 8 5 3 2 5 3 1 7 8 9 4 2 7 8 6 2 6 7 5 3 1 8 6 4 1 2 3

8

2 6

2 3

7 1

5 4

3

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, 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 The solutions will see how ‘straights’ are formed.

5 2 9

Name the Movie

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles.

We’ve given you a head start.

WRMEESDGDEBFIINNS

Y

T

‘ D

Previous solution:

Previous solution: ON THE LINE

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge My88 Your home of the eighties! my88.com.au 0401 222 088

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge, BegInneR

10

TIMes By ITself

InTeRMedIaTe

1000 1/8 of IT

adVanced

325 3/25 of ThIs

HINTS

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

÷5 +3 -10 ÷6 +4 7 3 ÷5 x16 /10 75% /7 x4 5/12 5% 33 9% +11 -19 37½ 4/7 x25 TIMes By ITself

¼ of ThIs

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3. My middle name is Alison. ansWeR

4. I like to fly in my private jet.

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Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 173 - BEGINNER - 15, INTERMEDIATE - 39, ADVANCED - 408.

5. I starred in the film ‘Cats’.

Last week’s answer: DAVID BLAINE

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 174- BEGINNER - 26, INTERMEDIATE - 7.5, ADVANCED - 300.

470 -390 x4¼ 25% of IT 20%

+8 ÷3 -5 +6 19 +18 -5 ÷8 2 7 x4 -300 /9 ÷10 -19 /9 -24 3000 3/5 2/3 ÷6 x30 10% +21 15% less

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

www.30secondchallenge.com

82

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WARNING SIGNS FOR ROAD SAFETY I

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6. Replenishing brake fluid: Regular monitoring and replenishing of brake fluid levels to uphold the hydraulic system’s effectiveness.

7. Test drive: A practical evaluation through a test drive to assess the overall responsiveness and functionality of the braking system.

Warning signs: When to see a mechanic 1. Drag: Recognised by sticking brakes, hot wheels, or an engine seemingly losing power, this sign may indicate failing brakes that could result in a complete

loss of braking capability if not promptly addressed.

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4.

Dash warning lights: Illuminated red or yellow brake warning lights serve as signals, ranging from minor concerns like parking brake engagement to severe problems like hydraulic system failures, warranting swift inspection.

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7. Low pedal: A brake pedal nearly touch-

ing the floor before brakes engage, may signify a range of issues, from a simple adjustment requirement to a more serious concern and should be investigated immediately.

8. Grab: Overly sensitive brakes that grab with minimal pressure may suggest problems such as grease or oil-contaminated linings or the imminent failure of a loose or broken component, requiring urgent attention.

In conclusion, comprehensive brake service goes beyond mere maintenance; it is a commitment to ensuring the safety of both the driver and other road users. Paying heed to these warning signs is not just an investment in your vehicle’s longevity but, more importantly, in your safety on the road. Stay vigilant, act promptly, and prioritise brake service as an indispensable facet of responsible vehicle ownership. Your safety is an investment well worth making.

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83

SPORT

Bailey sweats it out to win gold NATHAN TAYLOR

W

hen you’re dedicated to your craft, you’ll do almost anything to become successful – including running around in the baking hot Bangkok sun in a sauna suit.

19-year-old Bailey Collins travelled to the bustling Thai capital earlier this month to represent Australia at the WBC Muay Thai Festival.

Competing in the 54kg division, the Orchard Hills resident had to weight cut four times in three days in order to battle the best of the best in the ancient martial art.

Speaking with the Weekender, Collins said it was “probably the hardest thing” he’s ever done.

“I had to run in a sauna suit and have hot baths, just to drop the weight,” he said.

“Upon landing over there, I had 3kg to cut and then every other weigh-in after that I had about 1.5kg to cut.

“I put the sauna suit on to run in and, because it’s so hot over there, it’s easy to cut weight. However, sometimes I didn’t have enough energy to do it, so I’d just sit in a hot bath instead and sweat it out.”

Collins’ commitment to dropping enough weight paid off, with the young plumber winning all three of his fights to take home the gold for Australia.

Up against fighters much older than him,

Collins did his country proud by taking them down one by one on in front of some wild and woolly Bangkok crowds.

“My first fight was against Sri Lanka, which was probably the toughest because we fought outside in the car park and it was so hot that I was overheating,” Collins said.

“The second fight was against the US, that was hard too but I think I adapted to the heat by then.

“My third and final fight, I took on a 33-year-old from Portugal. I fought him inside Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, the most famous stadium in Bangkok.”

After six weeks of intense training at Machete Muay Thai in Jamisontown, Collins said he went into each fight with confidence and a positive attitude despite being only relatively new to the sport.

“You’ve got to be confident because if you’re not, you’re going to lose,” he said.

“I’ve been fighting for two-and-a-half years and have had 14 fights since then.

“I started Muay Thai for fitness for rugby league. I needed something to do in the off-season, so I started this and have been enjoying it ever since.

“My sponsors, local businesses JP Health and Nutrition and The Lads Lounge in Werrington, have been incredible on my journey so far.”

True to his commitment, Collins is already back in the gym, preparing for his latest fight in Melbourne next month.

Bailey Collins won gold at the WBC Muay Thai Festival in Bangkok. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

SPORT

Buckley set to fly Defender keen to build on strong season in 2024 campaign NATHAN TAYLOR

G

Jack Buckley (right) contests the ball at a recent Giants training session. Photo: Ryan Jones/GWS Giants.

me, and I took a lot of confidence in that.

“I just wanted to get back out there and, once I got a taste of playing again, it’s something I never want taken away again.”

While injuries are unpredictable, Buckley’s perspective on the game has altered and it’s paying dividends for him out on the field.

“Injuries are a part of sport, but every time I’m able to get out there and be healthy, I just want

to be as grateful as possible,” he told the Weekender.

“I never thought I’d win the Coaches Award at the end of last year. I guess it’s a good sign if you’re being recognised by the coaches. It was a nice surprise and very humbling.”

Buckley flourished under coach Kingsley and he is hoping to continue his upwards trajectory in 2024. The Maroubra Saints junior couldn’t be more complimentary towards his

Story continued from » p.88

“We learned a big valuable lesson against St Helens last year. They obviously showed up with a purpose and we want to learn from that. Hopefully we can play hard for the next game.”

Penrith backrower Liam Martin will get his first taste of World Club Challenge football when he runs onto the pitch this weekend. The 26-year-old missed out on playing against St Helens in Penrith last year due to injury.

“I injured my AC joint, so I was disappointed to miss out last year,” he said.

“It’s going to be a really cool experience going over as a team. The game is already sold out, so that’s exciting.

“You see how passionate the English are with all their sports, like the Barmy Army, so I feel like it will be a similar atmosphere. I’m really looking forward to experiencing it.”

While Luke Garner finished the year with a Premiership, his first game for the Panthers was their 13-12 golden point loss to the Saints last February.

The 28-year-old, who is visiting the UK for the first time, said helping Penrith win their maiden World Club Challenge title is the dream.

“That’s all the motivation we need,” Garner said.

“We are a team that doesn’t like losing, so that’s enough motivation in itself.

Hopefully we get the win this time.”

Penrith will battle Wigan in the Clash of the Champions this Sunday at 7am.

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WS Giants defender Jack Buckley spent 623 days on the sideline before he returned to the pitch last year in spectacular fashion.

After tearing his ACL at the end of the 2021 season, Buckley’s comeback couldn’t have gone better – racking up 26 games and awarded the club’s Coaches Award at last year’s Kevin Sheedy Medal.

The 26-year-old thought he was done and dusted with the game but his perseverance and determination to getting back to full fitness paid off and he couldn’t be more grateful.

With a new coach in Adam Kingsley on board to kick off last season, Buckley considered 2023 a fresh start for not only the club but for him also.

“I think it was a fresh start for everyone,” he said.

“I was able to put that couple of years behind me because there was a new energy around the place, new coaches who I wanted to impress. It was a clean slate for

coach, who replaced Leon Cameron last season.

“I think the great thing about him is that he’s incredibly consistent in his messaging and the way that he rocks up every day and delivers his messages and the way he implements the game plan is something that’s really easy to follow,” he said.

“He’s so confident in it, so we’re very confident in it as a result.

He hasn’t changed much in pre-season this year other than a few little things here and there.

“We finished strong last year, so we want to carry that into this season as much as we can.”

In just two weeks’ time, football will return to Giants Stadium when GWS battle the Premiers in a Saturday night blockbuster.

The Magpies were responsible for eliminating the Giants last September – and they haven’t forgotten about it.

“Being able to play a primetime game at home against Collingwood who knocked us out last year, there’s plenty of buzz around it,” Buckley said.

“We can’t wait to put on a great game in front of our fans.”

CLASH OF THE CHAMPIONS

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

85

SPORT

The day Glenn Matthews sacked Lang in his undies TROY DODDS

F

ormer Panthers CEO Glenn Matthews has spoken out about his infamous ‘broken promise’ to Premiership-winning coach John Lang and revealed the two have never repaired their relationship since a dramatic morning in a Northern Territory hotel room nearly 20 years ago.

Speaking to the Weekender’s On The Record podcast, to be released on Monday, Matthews recounts the extraordinary lead-up to informing Lang he wouldn’t be required after the 2006 season after he signed Matt Elliott to coach the NRL side.

Lang had guided Penrith to a Premiership in 2003 but player unrest had started to become an issue in 2005.

“John said to me – make me a promise, promise me that the day you decide you don’t want me anymore, I’m the first person you tell,” Matthews tells the podcast.

“I said John, I give you that promise and I gave him that promise. It came back to haunt me.”

Matthews revealed he intended to talk to Elliott during the 2006 season, but interest from Newcastle forced discussions forward and a deal was done prior to that season kicking off.

Matthews, who had already briefed the Board, told Lang of his decision in a Northern

Former Panthers coach John Lang. Photo: NRL Images.

Territory hotel room after a trial against Parramatta.

“I knocked on his door and he’s laying in bed in his undies. I walked in and said we needed to have a chat.

“I’m sitting on the side of the bed, he’s in his undies, and I told him. I thought he was going to kill me. He was so angry.

“It made things extremely uncomfortable for the rest of the year.”

Matthews and Lang have barely spoken since that morning.

“For me to not to be on even speaking terms with John, I was sad about that but I understood it. I don’t hold that against him at all,” he said.

On The Record with Glenn Matthews will be released on Monday morning. Search ‘Western Weekender’ wherever you listen to podcasts.

Former Panthers CEO Glenn Matthews.

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86

the western weekender » Friday, February 23, 2024

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

From red and black to green and gold FOOTBALL: Western Sydney Wanderers star striker Sophie Harding has been called into the Matildas squad for the upcoming AFC Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Paris 2024 Asian Qualifiers. The 24-year-old is currently equal second in the 2023/24 A-League Women’s Golden Boot race after netting nine goals and recording two assists in 15 games.

This marks the first national team call-up for the Wanderers sharpshooter as she enjoys career-best form with the side. The Matildas will take on Uzbekistan in Round 3 of the Asian Qualifiers this Saturday night at Milliy Stadium in Tashkent.

FOOTBALL: With their coach Marko Rudan sitting at home suspended by Football Australia, the Western Sydney Wanderers were unable to lift his spirits, losing 1-0 to the Central Coast Mariners last Sunday afternoon in the A-League. The game looked headed for a draw before the second-placed Mariners scored a penalty goal in the 83rd minute to collect all three points. Despite having the bulk of possession and the most shots at goal, the Wanderers were unable to get one past the keeper and have slipped to sixth on the ladder after 17 games. Last week, the Wanderers were dealt a major blow when their head coach was suspended by the governing body for breaches of the National Code of Conduct and Ethics following a show cause notice process pursuant to the Code. As a result of the breaches, Rudan was subsequently ineligible to participate in Western Sydney’s match against Central Coast last weekend as well as this Saturday’s match against Adelaide United. Rudan will be eligible for the Wanderers’ match against Sydney FC on Saturday, March 2. Tickets for the Sydney Derby at CommBank Stadium are selling fast.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have come crashing down to earth following a 4-0 blowout at the hands of Melbourne Victory last Friday night. McKenzie Weinert and Emily Gielnik both scored a brace in the win, leaving the Wanderers plenty to think about over the next fortnight. Western Sydney will enjoy this weekend off due to the international break before battling Sydney FC on March 2.

CRICKET: Penrith have defeated Northern District in Round 14 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Northern District won the toss and elected to bowl. On day one Penrith declared on 9/262.

Skipper Ryan Gibson was a beast with the bat, scoring 91 before being bowled out. When Northern District hit the crease last Saturday

morning, they played reasonably well but were unable to reach Penrith’s target, falling 33 runs short. The Cats will return to Howell Oval this weekend when they play St George in the penultimate round.

CRICKET: Penrith have been belted by crosstown rivals Parramatta in Round 17 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a One-Day match at Howell Oval, Parramatta won the toss and elected to bat. The visitors batted well before being dismissed for 166.

Aimee Ravot was sublime with the ball, taking 5/37. When Penrith hit the crease later that day, they couldn’t get any momentum happening and were all out for just 88. Bowler Emma Hughes top scored with 16. The Lady Cats will look to bounce back when they travel to Hurstville Oval on Sunday to play St George-Sutherland in the final round of the regular season.

CRICKET: The latest round of the Nepean District Cricket Association (NDCA) competition took place last weekend, with excellent results for Panthers Cricket Club. In fifth grade, after scoring 220 in their first innings Panthers dismissed Glenbrook Blaxland for just 68 runs to record an emphatic win and secure the Minor Premiership. James Yates 5/15 and Mark Dent 3/21 were outstanding in the Panthers’ victory. After two previous losses to Glenbrook Blaxland, it was a well-timed boost with the semi finals this weekend.

Wanderers striker Sophie Harding has been selected in the Matildas team.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 3 of the Men’s 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 and Canterbury played out an exciting 22-22 draw.

In the Harold Matthews Cup, Penrith were smashed 46-10 by the young Bulldogs. Both teams will take on the Sydney Roosters this Saturday at Henson Park.

BASEBALL: Round 14 of the Baseball NSW

State League First Grade competition took place last week, with Greater Western unable to grab a win in the final round. On Wednesday night, the Warriors were given a baseball lesson by Ryde 15-2, while on Saturday afternoon Greater Western went down to the Hawks 3-0. The Warriors ended the regular season in last spot, with four wins and 18 losses to their name.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Congratulations to Penrith Referees’ Association Life Member Russell Turner for becoming a Life Member of the NSWRLRA last week. Turner had an outstanding career in rugby league as an official both on and off the field, touch judging over 400 NRL games – the highest number of games ever by an official in the history of the game. “To now be included in this amazing group of referees is beyond words. The game has given me so many opportunities to meet such great people and participate in amazing events. To receive this honour is just amazing, it’s just icing on the cake!” Turner said.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 3 of the Women’s NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend with poor results for Penrith’s Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaola teams.

In the Tarsha Gale Cup, Penrith were creamed

by Canterbury 72-4. In the Lisa Fiaola Cup, Penrith were no match for the Bulldogs 48-4.

Both sides will take on the Roosters this Saturday at Henson Park.

Russell Turner and Gary Haines.

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message me on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

Friday, February 23, 2024 « the western weekender

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SPORT

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rom attending English Premier League matches to meeting fans on the wet streets of Manchester, the Penrith Panthers are making the most of their time in the UK. But what they really travelled thousands of miles for is the opportunity to make history, to become the first Panthers team to win the World Club Challenge.

It will be Penrith’s fourth attempt at World Club Challenge supremacy when the two sides do battle on Sunday morning (Penrith time) at a sold-out DW Stadium in Wigan.

The three-peat NRL Premiers arrived in England last weekend, travelling via Emirates business class from Sydney to Dubai and on to Manchester.

Before the trip, the Weekender caught up with three players who were very eager to claim a piece of silverware that had eluded the Panthers club for so long.

Panthers winger Brian To’o said he was looking forward to returning to England after an enjoyable experience at the Rugby League World Cup in 2022.

“My first time over there was crazy, it was the best ever! I love the weather over there and I’m looking forward to playing against a great team as well,” he said.

Story continues on » p. 85

Dylan Edwards and Isaah Yeo at a Manchester City game.

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