Western Weekender March 29 2019 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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Photo: Melinda Jane

LABOR DAY Prue Car wins second term in Londonderry SEE PAGES 6-7

STUART SURVIVES It was a battle to the very end, but Stuart Ayres remains the Member for Penrith despite Labor and One Nation making significant ground in the hotly contested seat. Nicola Barton reports on pages 2-3

RED TAPE Local resident wants tree policies changed SEE PAGE 18

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Warrior Ayres wins, while • Penrith becomes one of NSW’s most marginal seats as Ayres wins brutal battle “I’ve said it over the last few weeks that if we won Penrith we’d win Government and that’s exactly what we’ve done but to do that we had to build our blue stone wall made up of all of these blue shirts and we did that, we did not let them back into this community and we’ll never let them back in.” Mr Ayres said he was proud to have delivered the result and paid credit to NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian for her strong leadership of the party. “We all invest hours a day, our families’ lives, we make sacrifices, Gladys has made more sacrifices than most people can contemplate so she can dedicate herself to NSW,” he said. Londonderry Liberal Candidate Belinda Hill was also present at the event on Saturday night, although falling short to sitting Labor MP Prue Car. Despite losing her battle, Ms Hill was extremely proud of the result, with a significant swing in her favour. “I couldn’t be happier knowing that in just three short months of campaigning, I reduced the margin of ‘Labor’s superstar MP’,” she said. Ms Hill thanked her supporters and said she will start a Facebook page called ‘Londonderry Left Behind’ to continue to fight for action in the electorate.

NICOLA BARTON

e always knew he had a fight on his hands, but that probably made victory even more special for Penrith MP Stuart Ayres at the State Election last Saturday. An emotional Mr Ayres claimed victory for the Liberals at around 10.30pm on election night at a gathering with supporters at Panthers Leagues Club. After a neck and neck battle, Mr Ayres defeated Labor candidate Karen McKeown but when all is said and done Penrith will become a very marginal seat, with Mr Ayres’ 6.2 per cent margin decimated. He’ll hold the seat by around one per cent heading into the next election. Whilst Ms McKeown ran a strong campaign in Penrith for Labor, coming down with full force on issues surrounding the M4 toll and Allianz Stadium, voters still leaned towards the Coalition. One Nation also picked up a sizable slice of the votes in Penrith, coming in third on first preferences. “I would never have been able to achieve this result for Penrith if it wasn’t for a group of dedicated volunteers, from the bottom of my heart I thank you,” Mr Ayres told supporters.

Stuart Ayres embraces partner Marise Payne on Saturday night. Photo: Melinda Jane

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• Mulgoa easily stays in Liberal hands, but Tanya Davies quits Cabinet roles

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies with supporters at James Erskine Public School in Erskine Park on Saturday. Photo: Melinda Jane

Sitting Liberal Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies was the first of the local MPs to claim victory on Saturday after a triumphant win over Labor candidate Todd Carney. Mrs Davies is on track to record a strong swing to her, extending the Liberal dominance in Mulgoa and making it an even safer seat with the final margin likely to be close to 12 per cent at the next election in 2023. “I am humbled by this great result and I can’t wait to get back to working hard for the people of Mulgoa and delivering on the commitments we’ve made,” Mrs Davies said to her supporters. “I want to sincerely thank the people of Mulgoa for returning me as their local member to continue to serve our great community.” However, Mrs Davies delivered a shock on Monday when she announced she would stand down from her Ministerial roles and would not ask for a position in the new Cabinet. “At this time in my life I have decided I need to spend more time with my family and more time closer to home in my electorate representing the people of my community,” she said. Mrs Davies had been the Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Women, and Minister for Ageing.

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Davies extends margin

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Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

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Stadium campaign a lame duck

Issue 1395

n the end, Michael Daley huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the house down. His campaign – which started like a freight train hellbent on destroying all in front of it but finished like a one-man canoe in high seas – faded out with barely a whimper last Saturday night. And while Mr Daley’s horrific final week probably helped the Coalition hold on to majority government, the reality is that Labor’s entire campaign was predicated on a myth: that the wider electorate cared enough about stadiums to terminate a largely successful government. I wrote last year that I didn’t think the stadium issue would decide the election and in the end, voters in NSW considered the economy, infrastructure investment and a positive plan forward was more important, even if they did think the stadium splurge was unnecessary. What I think really resonated with voters in the final week was Gladys Berejiklian’s message that the cornerstone of Labor’s election campaign was cancelling a major project. It made people think twice about what Labor and Mr Daley were actually offering the electorate. The fact that Mr Daley spent almost every day of the campaign’s final week at Allianz Stadium instead of focusing on electorates that were on a knife’s edge, such as Penrith, shows a complete misread of where the election was placed. And Mr Daley’s refusal to go back on to the Alan Jones program after that infamous interview during the campaign didn’t help either. Jones may be losing some of his clout but he still has powerful sway. Mr Daley underestimated that.

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

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Wisdom

Index

“The New South Wales of 2023 must look very different to the one we have in 2019”

Ms Berejiklian made a slow start to the campaign but she finished like Winx down the straight at Randwick. The hard work begins now. It’s vital that Ms Berejiklian’s government sharpens the scissors and prepares to cut ribbons on projects right across the state. The electorate has given the government the benefit of the doubt that the cranes in the sky and bulldozers on the ground will lead to a brighter future. The New South Wales of 2023 must look very different to the one we have in 2019. Projects like WestConnex and the light rail need to have transformed the city, while our hospitals, schools and trains need to have moved beyond catch-up mode. After 12 years in power, the government will no longer be able to blame the legacy left by Labor. Locally, there were no real surprises in the end.

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Stuart Ayres survived in Penrith and on Saturday night he looked like he’d gone a few rounds with Mike Tyson. It was a brutal and challenging campaign. Tanya Davies had a swing to her in Mulgoa and easily accounted for Todd Carney, with Labor failing to make any significant local announcements that would have swayed voters. And in Londonderry, Labor’s Prue Car easily retained the seat albeit with a swing against her. On Saturday night Mr Ayres declared the government would come after Londonderry at the next election but I get the feeling Ms Car will be the Member there for as long as she wants to be. She is a future Minister and perhaps even Premier in the making. Labor is now left to pick up the pieces of what in the end was a lacklustre campaign that lacked any real bite. While a promise of more parking in Penrith and Emu Plains was a good policy, more on- the ground, hyperlocal announcements were needed for the party to really make up the ground it needed to win either Penrith or Mulgoa. Labor also lacked a significant local advertising campaign. Labor overestimated just how much a South Penrith, Glenmore Park or St Marys resident cared about Allianz Stadium and perhaps underestimated the strength of the Liberal campaign locally. You didn’t need a crystal ball to know that Michael Daley was never going to be able to hold on to the Labor leadership. The person who steps in to that job, most likely Chris Minns, has an enormous job ahead of them to rebuild the faith and provide the inspiration that Mr Daley and Luke Foley before him could not.

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Premier saves Penrith Gladys Berejiklian’s relentless campaign won over locals – one by one TROY DODDS

ladys Berejiklian’s consistent, high profile visits to Penrith during the State Election campaign paid off for sitting MP Stuart Ayres, with the Premier credited with playing a crucial role in saving the seat for the Government. As far back as November last year the Coalition was extremely worried about Penrith, with internal polling suggesting that Mr Ayres was in grave danger of losing the seat. Labor continued to make ground, but in the final weeks of the campaign there was a shift back to the government. Desperate to keep Penrith in Coalition hands and acutely aware that every vote mattered, Ms Berejiklian visited Penrith every day in the final week of the campaign, even enjoying dinner at the Pioneer Tavern in South Penrith on election eve. She also chose Penrith to officially launch her campaign earlier this month. Insiders say that as the architect of the stadium policy and the minister responsible for WestConnex, which saw a new toll on the M4, Mr Ayres was on the nose with swinging voters, while Ms Berejiklian was still seen as a vote winner who registered well with the local community.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian with staff from the Pioneer Tavern in South Penrith last Friday night. Photo: Twitter Claiming victory on Saturday night, Ms Berejiklian said she was thrilled to be returned as Premier – and create history by becoming the first elected female Premier in New South Wales history. “I want to thank the people of this great state for having confidence in me and my government,” she said.

“One of the deepest privileges of my job is to visit the great people across every corner of this state and we will continue to govern for all of us, for all of you.” Ms Berejiklian said she was exceptionally proud of where the state was placed moving into the next four years. “What is most important to me is that no

matter what your background, where you live, or what your circumstances, every person in this state has the chance to be their best. A state in which someone with a long surname and a woman can be the Premier of New South Wales,” she said. Meanwhile, Michael Daley has stood down as Labor’s leader.

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

Count continues The check count (batching and data entry) for the Legislative Council ballot papers began on Sunday at the Legislative Council count centre at Rosehill Racecourse. The Legislative Council check count figures have started to appear on the NSW Electoral Commission website at https://vtr.elections.nsw.gov.au/lc/ home. The check count will report first preference votes, both above and below the line, for all groups and candidates that appear on the ballot paper. The Electoral Commission website will be progressively updated until Wednesday, April 10. The distribution of preferences is likely to occur on Friday, April 12.

Car claims win but • Londonderry sticks with Labor; Prue Car earns second term EMILY FESZCZUK

Federal focus With the State Election now over, the political focus will shift to the upcoming Federal Election. The Lindsay electorate will be critical to the success of both major parties and is expected to get plenty of attention during the campaign. Labor holds the seat narrowly but has been damaged by the high profile departure of sitting MP Emma Husar. Labor veteran Diane Beamer is the party’s candidate for Lindsay while the Liberals have backed Melissa McIntosh. Independent Mark Tyndall will run, while The Greens, United Australia, and Australia First are all understood to be fielding Lindsay candidates.

Londonderry MP Prue Car casting her vote at Jordan Springs. Photo: Melinda Jane

ondonderry MP Prue Car retained her seat in the one shining light for Labor locally at the State Election. Ms Car comfortably won the seat but in a surprise, appears set to suffer a swing of around two per cent against her once all the votes are finalised, with Liberal candidate Belinda Hill performing well. Ms Car was monitoring Londonderry results while appearing on Channel Nine’s election night coverage and missed the opportunity to mingle with supporters at Labor’s party at St Marys RSL. On Monday, Ms Car said she’ll continue to be a voice for western Sydney locals over the next four years as the Opposition looks to re-group under a new leader. “This a job that I love doing and something that I will never take for granted. Since being elected I have made it my mission to always fight for this community. I look forward to continuing that fight for the next four years,” Ms Car said. “Over the next four years, my priority will be ensuring that western Sydney is not ignored by this Government. This is a region facing unimaginable change and it is important we put people and communities first.’’

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the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Labor faces difficult road

• Party makes ground in Penrith but falters in Mulgoa as Michael Daley stumbles

While Ms Car did well in her electorate, Labor struggled in Mulgoa and missed out on grabbing Penrith from Stuart Ayres. Penrith candidate Karen McKeown addressed supporters late on Saturday night and said there were plenty of positives out of the results. “We always knew it would be tight, but we put in the work and I don’t think the Liberal Party thought they had a contest on their hands until the last three weeks,” Ms McKeown said. “The results are showing how tight it is and it’s a good day for democracy that we have even rattled the sitting member enough to get him out of the city and out on the streets of his own electorate.” In Mulgoa, Todd Carney struggled to make an impact on Tanya Davies’ stranglehold on the seat, but said he’ll continue to work hard for local residents, and indicated he’d like another tilt at the seat in 2023. “I’ll be around for the next four years and I’ll be keeping the government to account from a local position and I’ll be back in another four years,’’ Mr Carney said. Labor’s momentum was rattled in the final week of the campaign, especially after the below par performance by leader Michael Daley at a People’s Forum held at Western Sydney University.

Mulgoa candidate Todd Carney with his family at Labor’s post-election function. Photo: Melinda Jane

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ADMINISTRATION

the western weekender Âť Friday, March 29, 2019

Government unlikely to consider toll cap proposal

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he Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) is calling on the State Government to introduce a weekly toll cap as a way to lift the burden on frequent commuters. It comes just over a week after the NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian visited Penrith Railway Station to announce that her Government would create a weekly Opal cap of $50 per person. WSROC welcomed the announcement and says it was a step in the right direction for daily travellers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When the free travel cap was removed in early 2016, a five- day commute from Penrith to the city jumped from $51.68 per week to $75.50 per week,â&#x20AC;? WSROC President and Hawksberry Councillor Barry Calvert said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This move unfairly impacted western Sydney commuters who typically travel longer distances to reach jobs in Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s east.â&#x20AC;? Cr Calvert said the next logical step is for the State Government to introduce a network cap for Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toll roads. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2017, a Parliamentary Inquiry into NSW toll roads recommended the Government investigate a network-wide

Electric car Penrith City Council is marking this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s international Earth Hour event on Saturday by launching a new electric car. The latest addition to Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vehicle fleet is a 100 per cent electric Renault Kangoo, which will not create any greenhouse gas emissions while being driven, and will be recharged using renewable energy. The delivery-style â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;eco carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; has been purchased to trial its suitability and real world running costs, and if it proves successful Council will look at purchasing more in the future when cars need replacement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the latest in a range of steps we have taken to reduce our energy use and move towards renewable energy sources, as an organisation and a city,â&#x20AC;? Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said this week.

cap to reduce the cumulative impact on long distance commuters,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is yet to be done, and we would like to see a commitment to having an informed, public debate on the way we pay for transport infrastructure in our city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;WSROC will always encourage people to choose public transport over private vehicles where possible, however for many western Sydney residents, public transport is still not a viable option.â&#x20AC;? The M4 toll debate was a hot topic going into last weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s State Election, with Penrith MP Stuart Ayres only just scraping over the line to retain his seat. Mr Ayres alongside Ms Berejiklian have been largely criticised for the reintroduction of the M4 toll but have remained adamant that it is necessary for critical infrastructure projects. Mr Ayres said the idea of an M4 toll cap was out of the question, but the State Government is looking at other ways to reduce cost of living pressures. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The majority of toll contracts in Sydney were established by Labor governments. The Liberal Government is taking the pressure off regular toll road users by giving them free car registration saving motorists hundreds of dollars each year,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Free batteries Every year at the end of daylight savings, firefighters encourage families to change their smoke alarm batteries. Battery World Penrith is throwing their support behind the initiative by offering people new batteries free of charge to help keep them safe. Owner David Nicholas says the only catch is you have to come down to the store to hand over your old batteries. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We understand people might come in for extended family, so we will happily give you as many as 20 batteries for your old ones,â&#x20AC;? Mr Nicholas said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hundreds of thousands of Australians still fail to change their smoke alarm batteries every year. Yet one simple fact does not change and that is if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t got a working smoke alarm you are four times more likely to die in a residential fire than people with a working smoke alarm.â&#x20AC;?

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Lot 1 DP 1071114, Lot 55 DP 1170183 (Nos. 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;23) Lenore Drive, Erskine Park Industrial unit complex containing 29 units and cafĂŠ, associated basement and ground level car parking and strata title subdivision x 30 lots 7KH SURSRVDO LV DQ ,QWHJUDWHG 'HYHORSPHQW XQGHU 6HFWLRQ RI WKH Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 ,Q WKLV UHJDUG WKH DSSOLFDQW LV VHHNLQJ concurrent approval from the Natural Resources Access Regulator under Section 91 of the Water Management Act 2000 The development application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed EHORZ DW DQ\ WLPH GXULQJ RUGLQDU\ RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 0DUFK WR $SULO Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing WR 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO LQ UHODWLRQ WR WKH GHYHORSPHQW DSSOLFDWLRQ :KHUH D submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLOŇ&#x2039;V UHIHUHQFH QXPEHU '$ For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Wendy Connell on Viewing of Development Applications 7KH DERYH GHYHORSPHQW DSSOLFDWLRQ V PD\ EH YLHZHG RQ &RXQFLOŇ&#x2039;V '$ 7UDFNHU YLD penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker $OWHUQDWLYHO\ WKH DSSOLFDWLRQ V FDQ EH YLHZHG GXULQJ &RXQFLOŇ&#x2039;V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI &RXQFLOŇ&#x2039;V 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW ZLOO EH DEOH WR DVVLVW ZLWK \RXU HQTXLULHV Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts 'HYHORSPHQW $SSOLFDWLRQV DUH GLVSOD\HG DW WKH 3HQULWK &LYLF &HQWUH %\ ODZ reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging D SODQQLQJ DSSOLFDWLRQ WR &RXQFLO &DOO RU YLVLW penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

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The M4 toll remains a hot topic of conversation for regular road users

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School will purchase a defibrillator thanks to funds donated by Nepean Rotary Club. The potentially life-saving defibrillator will be kept in the hall where performances are held. The Rotary donation was $1,899.

my Penrith

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

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week! This week’s lucky winners are: 0986, 0401, 0014.

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FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH: Frangos, although that’s a hard decision – I don’t want to offend my other favourite restaurants! FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH: High St Depot FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH: Coco Cubano FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR IN PENRITH: The Nepean River WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? It makes me feel like I am at home. It is not too quiet, but not too busy – just perfect WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The outdoor exercise equipment at Jamison Park!

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City park a step closer Penrith’s central park plan would revitalise city centre and add to green space ALENA HIGGINS

enrith City Council will acquire two more buildings as part of its master plan for a city park and square. The buildings, located at 46- 50 Station Street, Penrith, currently house Captain Cash, while the adjoining property – most recently occupied by fancy dress hire shop, Costumes n Things – sits vacant. Council purchased the neighbouring funeral parlour at the corner of Station and Henry streets for $1.98 million in September 2013, following a competitive auction. A Council spokesperson said the latest additions represent a “major and final milestone” in allowing the public green space to take shape. “The area bound by Henry Street, Station Street, Allen Place and Gaymark Lane in the City Centre has long been identified as the preferred location for a City Park,” the spokesperson said.

Council’s plans for a major recreation space in the city centre are advancing “Acquisition of two remaining properties at the site through mutual agreement represents a major and final milestone in the gathering of fragmented landholdings

to shape this important civic place.” The City Park Precinct, which will link through to High Street, is tipped to revitalise City Centre shops and encourage

the redevelopment of many High Street arcades. Last month, Councillors resolved to compulsory acquire the lots for “public recreation”, with funding being provided from the Major Projects Reserve. Council is currently in “Commercial in Confidence” negotiations with the property owners, the spokesperson said. “A number of community consultation activities and feasibility studies have already been undertaken,” the spokesperson said of the park precinct. “Further stakeholder engagement with the community and business owners will occur as the project evolves.” It was estimated back in 2013 that the creation of the square, including land acquisition costs, would reach about $15 million. Council did not provide updated costings or time frames to the Weekender. Do you want to see the park built? Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Our recycling dilemma Policy changes in China leave Council scrambling to find waste solution

enrith Council is scrambling to find a new contractor to receive and process its recyclables in the wake of the fallout from China’s Sword policy. The debacle was triggered when China began to stringently enforce restrictions on the importation of recyclable materials in January 2018. According to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), Australia alone sent 1.25 million tonnes of recycled material to China in 2016-17, with its National Sword policy impacting the global market for recyclable material, including what is currently collected in NSW. Now the race is on for Council to negoti-

ate the best- value- for- money deal, with the current contract, held by VISY, ending on June 30. On advice from officers, Councillors resolved during Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting to again reject all tenderers and negotiate with market leaders instead. However, a Council spokesperson said a contract is likely to be achieved by July 1. “Council is committed to delivering a waste system that provides the best outcomes for our residents and the environment so we can continue to divert waste from landfill,” the spokesperson said. Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Greg Davies is demanding the State Government open its coffers and use its Waste Levy for its intended purpose.

“We encourage people to recycle, we’ve supplied the infrastructure so they can recycle and the people of Penrith are doing a great job, but with the China problem, what do we do with it?” he asked. “We should have been working on this for years [with funding from the Waste Levy] and finding alternative things you can do with recycled materials.” The Waste Levy, which is paid by Council to the State Government on a per- tonne basis, aims to reduce the amount of waste being landfilled and promote recycling and resource recovery. Cr Davies said Penrith Council’s contribution alone would run into the tens of millions of dollars, stumped up by local ratepayers. He said if recycling goes back into land-

fill, “the people of Penrith are going to have to pay for it”. “It is a big problem – short- term I’m not sure there is a quick-fix solution, but I think we shouldn’t be sitting on our hands,” he said. “There are some very smart people out there that could soon work out what we can do. “A lot is done on a smaller scale, but they don’t have the finances to do it on a large scale.” The NSW Waste Levy, in place since the 1970s, is investing $802 million over nine years (from 2012- 2021) to drive waste avoidance, recycling, market development and management of problem wastes, among other initiatives, an EPA spokesperson said.

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Why Cornish walked out Disrespectful: Mayor Ross Fowler slams Councillor for “disgusting” behaviour ALENA HIGGINS

e’s known for his controversial viewpoints, but Independent Councillor Marcus Cornish elicited “disgust” from his colleagues when he walked out of chambers and refused to participate in a minute’s silence for Christchurch massacre victims during Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting. Cr Cornish, who has been an outspoken opponent of a proposed Islamic school and two proposed mosques in the Penrith area, defended his actions, stressing it was not out of disrespect for the people who lost their lives, but rather claimed it was an attempt by Mayor Ross Fowler to gain “political mileage” in light of the looming Federal Election. “Like everyone else, I’m absolutely horrified by what happened overseas,” he said. “We weren’t warned, this was just put on by Cr Fowler... and I felt that this was more of an insult to the victims to politicise it rather than actually sympathise with them, and I thought the best way to not say anything I might regret was to walk out.” “I wouldn’t wish that on anyone,” he said of the mosque shootings where 50 people lost their lives on March 15.

Cr Fowler said there was absolutely no basis to Cr Cornish’s claims, adding Councillors of all political persuasions were “absolutely disgusted” by his behaviour. “I think his act is one of the most disrespectful acts I’ve seen in my many years on Council,” he said. “The minute’s silence was in respect of the tragedy that occurred in Christchurch, it was to show solidarity of Penrith with the victims, the families and the people of New Zealand, there was no politics in it whatsoever.” In response to Cr Cornish’s assertion that Council was “cherry picking” because it fails to hold a minute’s silence for victims of massacres perpetrated in other parts of the world, Cr Fowler said Australia and New Zealand’s ties were on a different level. There was obvious shock from Councillors when Cr Cornish left the chambers. During the meeting, Cr Cornish also requested Council officers investigate the finer details of the Federal Government’s recently announced new national population plan, which will encourage skilled migrants to regional centres. Cr Cornish is concerned Penrith will become “one of the dumping grounds” and said current infrastructure is already “overloaded”.

Councillor Marcus Cornish left the Council chambers during a minute’s silence

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Man threatens commuter with gun at Kingswood Train Station

A man who threatened a fellow commuter with a pistol at Kingswood Train Station before stealing his phone has been jailed for five months. The terrifying incident started out innocently enough when Machol Machol, 21, walked up to the victim on the train and asked to borrow his iPhone. “Yep, sure,” the victim replied. But things took a turn for the worse when the two men alighted at Kingswood and the victim asked for it back. When the victim followed the offender, Machol turned around and said: “Hey man, I don’t want to hurt you. What’s your PIN code?” while showing him what appeared to be a silver hand gun. Magistrate Brian van Zuylen labelled it “terrible behaviour” by Machol, who is currently serving a sentence on another matter. “You should be ashamed of yourself [to threaten] someone generous enough to let you use their phone,” he said. With time already served, Machol will be eligible for release on parole on April 17.

Kingswood teen facing long jail sentence over robbery

A Kingswood teen accused of armed robbery will remain behind bars after he was denied bail. Jacob Campbell, 19, is facing a maximum of 20 years in jail after being charged with one count of ‘robbery armed with an offensive weapon’ and one count of ‘demand with menaces intend obtaining a gain or causing a loss’. Court documents seen by the Weekender allege Campbell, along with a number of young co-accused, robbed the male victim of $2,200 while armed with a knife at a Claremont Meadows address about 3pm on March 18. The court heard the group made contact with the victim over Snapchat. His lawyer raised the issue of self

defence and asked Magistrate Brian van Zuylen to release him from custody, where his “limited record” made him more “pliable” to “learning all the wrong information” from adult prisoners. The prosecutor said he was “staring down the barrel of a custodial sentence”, which was a “significant deterrent” to him attending court. He was deemed an unacceptable risk and bail refused. His matter was adjourned to May 17.

Man back in jail after being busted behind the wheel

A magistrate has sent a man to the slammer after he committed the “worst case” of driving while disqualified. Penrith Local Court heard Peter Bosilkovski, 55, was on parole for driving causing grievous bodily harm when he was busted behind the wheel. The offender, who is currently disqualified until 2022, was pinged at an RBT at St Marys. Magistrate Brian van Zuylen jailed him for a further three months last Thursday, describing it as the “worst case” of driving while banned the court sees. “These are some of the most serious driving charges you can get,” he said, referring to the original charges that led to his four-year, six month jail sentence. “I’m sorry, Your Honour,” he said. “Yes, but you’re not sorry enough not to do it in the first place,” Magistrate van Zuylen chastised, adding he simply disregarded his ban for a “trivial reason” – to pick someone up from the station. His lawyer told the court Bosilkovski’s offending was not planned but instinctual after he received a call from his partner saying she was stuck at St Marys after being assaulted. He is eligible for parole on June 20.

Magistrate’s strong words to repeat drink driving offender

A talented basketballer caught drink driving twice in as many months has

faced court. Natalia Beaumont appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with low-range and mid-range drink driving. The court heard the elite athlete was first pulled over on October 21 on the M4 Motorway and blew 0.66. The provisional driver was caught again less than three weeks later, this time along River Road, Emu Plains. “Her speech was slow and slurred… she struggled to get out of the vehicle,” Magistrate Brian van Zuylen noted, reciting a portion of the agreed facts tendered on the mid-range PCA matter. Her lawyer said his young client “understands how serious these offences are” and was going through a “very challenging time” when the crimes took place. Magistrate van Zuylen hoped Beaumont would not come before the court for a third drink driving offence, warning her the court would consider a jail sentence if she does. “Is that clear?” he demanded. She was convicted, disqualified for three months on both matters, ordered to enter the mandatory alcohol interlock program for 12 months and fined $800.

Man urged to have more respect for his ex-partner

A man who “terrorised” his ex-partner in front of their young children has received a tongue lashing from his sentencing magistrate. When officers found the 40-year-old man, he was pacing around the woman’s car, with the mother “crying hysterically and shaking” inside, Penrith Local Court heard when the man fronted court last Thursday. The court was told the man had earlier grabbed the woman’s phone from his youngest child, started “provoking her” and said “I’ve got all I need on you” before she jumped inside the car and called police. Magistrate Brian van Zuylen was scathing of his behaviour, saying he should

have more respect for the mother of his children, “whatever is going on” in their relationship. “What must they think of you?” he said of the man’s kids. “Your behaviour was shameful and criminal and if it keeps happening it will send you to jail.” He was convicted and handed a 12-month Community Corrections Order.

Woman caught drink driving again asks if she can appeal

An intoxicated motorist caught driving at night without her headlights on has been ordered off the road for six months. Janet Murphy McGuire was convicted of her third drink driving offence last Thursday, when she faced Penrith Local Court for sentence for low-range drink driving. “It’s not good,” Magistrate Brian van Zuylen said. “No it’s not good,” she echoed. “It’s a matter of your safety and the safety of other people on the road,” he added. “The risk of you crashing into someone or something is high.” She was convicted, disqualified for six months and fined $700. “Can I appeal that?” she asked. “You don’t have to discuss it with me, I’ve made my decision,” he quipped.

Man set to lose licence after he was caught speeding again

A man who lasted just 15 days on a good behaviour licence before he was caught speeding again has failed to have the traffic matter rubbed out. Joseph Patrick Ormsby, 36, will likely lose his licence after he was clocked travelling 81km/h in a 60km/h zone – his third speeding infringement in less than eight months. Despite lengthy submissions by his lawyer, Magistrate Brian van Zuylen refused to let him off. He was convicted and fined $100, with the RMS likely to strip him of his licence upon receiving news of his conviction.

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Colyton: Man leaving hotel busted before driving

A 65-year-old man has been charged with high range PCA after being busted planning to drink drive on Saturday, March 23 at 10.10pm. Police saw the man leave a licenced premises on the Great Western Highway near Colyton and get into his vehicle. Police stopped the man before he was able to drive away and subjected him to a roadside breath test. The man refused to participate. He was removed from the vehicle, arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he undertook a breath analysis. He returned a positive, high range result and was charged with high range PCA with his licence immediately suspended. He is to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, April 16.

Kingswood: Learner driver caught drink driving

Police have charged a female learner driver after she was caught driving unaccompanied and whilst highly intoxicated. Police allege that at 4.55am on Saturday, March 23 the woman was driving recklessly on the Great Western Highway near Kingswood. She was pulled over and subjected to a roadside breath test where she returned a positive high range result. She was taken back to Penrith Police Station and was issued a Field Court Attendance Notice for driving unaccompanied and for high range PCA. Her licence was suspended. She is to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 7.

Penrith: Man refuses breath test, resists arrest on High St

A man was caught driving whilst under the influence of alcohol after wedging his car in a car park on Thursday, March 21 at 4.30pm. The 65-year-old male, who had finished shopping at a supermarket on High

Street, was leaving the car park in his vehicle when he became wedged. Police were called and attended the scene. Upon arrival they spoke to the man who became belligerent and uncooperative. He refused to participate in a mandatory breath test and was placed under arrest for the purpose of breath analysis. A scuffle ensued, with the man trying to hold onto his car to resist police. He was taken to Penrith Police Station and was subject to a breath test. He returned a positive high range result. He was charged with high range PCA and ‘resist arrest’ to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, April 9.

Penrith: Woman turns violent when refused hotel entry

A woman has been charged after damaging property when she was asked to leave a licenced premises on High Street. On Tuesday, March 26 at 1.10am the woman attempted to enter the premises when she was denied entry and told it was past lock-out. The 31-year-old began yelling at security guards and broke the entry door. Police were called to the scene and issued a Field Court Attendance Notice.

Penrith: Man riding without helmet attracts police interest

A 28-year-old man has been charged after police found him in the possession of prohibited drugs. On Monday, March 25 the man was riding a pushbike on Reserve Street, Penrith with his helmet off and tied to his handlebars. Police, who were patrolling the area, pulled over to speak to the man about riding without a helmet. Due to the suspicious behaviour of the man, he was searched by police and an amount of prohibited drugs police allege to be cannabis was located. He was issued a Field Court Attendance Notice.

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

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

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Tackling drink drivers Did you know that new legislation was introduced in recent years to combat drink driving? For the past few years Courts have been able to impose an alcohol interlock device on drink drivers who fit into certain categories. An alcohol interlock device is a device fitted to a person’s car that requires the person to essentially complete a breath test before the vehicle can be switched on. The user blows into a mechanism that reads the driver’s blood alcohol content, and if the device detects any alcohol at all the vehicle will not start. The rationale behind the introduction of the Alcohol Interlock Program in New South Wales is to stop people from being able to drive their cars if they have been convicted of certain driving offences, and to also train offenders to separate their drinking from driving. The alcohol interlock device also includes a camera that takes a photograph of the person providing the breath sample so that drink drivers cannot ask someone who is sober to provide a sample and start a vehicle for them. Further, randomly timed breath tests must also be passed during a driver’s journey. Any alcohol interlock period is also predicated by a disqualification of the offender’s Driver’s Licence. The following offences attract mandatory disqualification and interlock periods:

• Low-range PCA (second or subsequent offence) – disqualification period of one to three months, interlock period of 12 months • Mid-range PCA (first offence) – disqualification period of three to six months, interlock period of 12 months • Mid-range PCA (second or subsequent offence) – disqualification period of six to nine months, interlock period of 24 months • High-range PCA (first offence) – disqualification period of six to nine months, interlock period of 24 months • High-range PCA (second or subsequent offence) – disqualification period of nine to 12 months, interlock period of 48 months There are a number of other offences that also attract mandatory disqualification and interlock periods, such as driving under the influence of alcohol and refusing to provide a breath sample. In some circumstances the Court may consider making an exemption order enabling an offender to avoid an interlock period. If an exemption order is made however, the mandatory minimum and maximum licence disqualification periods increase. The costs of an alcohol interlock device are approximately $2,500 per year, which is payable by the offender. If you have been charged and need some advice, contact us on 4707 9991.

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

Tree rules need review 15 years after planting two trees in his front yard, Robert Simpson has a problem NICOLA BARTON

amisontown resident Robert Simpson is warning residents to think before they plant, as Penrith Council restricts him from ripping up a tree, which could cost him up to $10,000 a year. Of the two trees he planted in his front lawn 15 years ago, one has now started to lift his driveway causing thousands of dollars in repairs. The other is blocking his ability to park a caravan, which would cost him $10,000 a year to put in storage. Mr Simpson said Council’s policies are over the top but seem to be exempt for developers. “The Council is hypocritical, they cut down thousands of trees for development and yet they have this obscene policy and restrictions in place,” he said. “It comes under the same Government legislation and Development Control Plan with Council, when you read it, it basically says ‘tough’ to a certain extent, it really has become over the top to say it lightly.” After months of consultation, Council approved for one of the Norway Spruce trees, that was damaging his driveway, to be ripped out but refuse to allow the other to be removed.

Robert Simpson says Penrith Council’s tree policies are over the top. Photo: Melinda Jane Mr Simpson assured the Weekender that he is not an “anti-greenie” but is sick of the double standards tree policies impose on residents. “To say it’s unfair is an understatement, just look at the East Side Quarter development at Panthers, if you get onto Google and look at the number of trees taken out of there, there was about 25 of them, for a billion dollar development,” he said.

A spokesperson from Council said they take careful consideration for tree removal applications. “We recognise there are a number of reasons why property owners may wish to remove trees,” the spokesperson said. “When assessing tree removal applications we do our best to balance the needs of our residents, with broader environmental and planning obligations.

“This may result in trees and vegetation being retained and protected, or conditional removal with appropriate offsets.” The Council spokesperson said the second tree is not to be removed as it is not causing damage and is considered to be healthy. Mr Simpson said policy amendments need to be made to ensure developers are held to the same strict requirements.

New system is rubbish Elderly South Penrith residents unhappy with communal bin concept NICOLA BARTON

esidents from a South Penrith villa block are furious over Penrith Council’s demands they foot a massive bill to upgrade their bin system. As part of Council’s Waste Strategy, three concrete slabs need to be built and a roofed shelter constructed to house communal bins for the complex. Residents will no longer have their own bins, which they previously wheeled to the kerb on bin collection days. Elderly residents are concerned that they will not be able to carry heavy rubbish bags to the new communal area and claim Council told them they’ll have to wait for their visitors to do it. Leonie O’Brien, who lives in the complex on Birmingham Road, said she feels let down by Council. “Elderly people live in this complex, how are they going to be able to carry out their rubbish bags to these bins every other day? Otherwise it’s going to have to accumulate in their house,” she said. “We spoke with Council about this and they suggested people can drive the rubbish to the bins every day and I said some people don’t have cars and they said well they have visitors, they’ll just have to get their visitors to do it.”

The change comes from Council’s Waste Strategy, adopted in September 2017, which has led to a new waste contract commencing this July. The strata complex has been quoted $25,000 for three concrete slabs and a Colorbond fence or $60,000 for concrete slabs and a brick fence, not including the necessary irrigation or lighting. A spokesperson from Penrith Council said they’ve been working with residents, owners and strata managers on this transition, claiming most embrace the change. “The new contract provides a collect and return service where higher density complexes utilise a central point for residents to dispose of their waste, rather than individual bins that when lined on a street impact kerbside space and on-street parking,” the spokesperson said. “There has been resistance from one strata management company, we understand this has caused misunderstanding and confusion about the new system for residents within those managed complexes. We are also aware of inflated costs being tabled, increasing concern about the change.” Ms O’Brien, alongside her neighbours, is sending a two page letter with signatures to all South Ward Councillors as well as to Mayor Ross Fowler and General Manager Warwick Winn in protest of the changes.

South Penrith residents are unhappy with changes to their bin pick-up system

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Retire to Jordan Springs –– Showroom Grand Opening Saturday, 6 April from 11am - 2pm RSVP today!

Join a brand new thriving community Exclusive to over 55s Just minutes from Penrith and right alongside Wianamatta Regional Park, Jordan Springs provides the best of both worlds! Experience the bush right outside your doorstep, without ever leaving the suburbs. Set your own pace, value your independence and enjoy the intimate charm of village life at Jordan Springs, a vibrant community with lakeside living at it’s heart, and located just 7km from Penrith CBD.

Artist impression

Spacious villa designs ranging from 2 or 3 bedrooms, some with media rooms and wrap around outside alfresco spaces with level internal garage access. This vibrant new development will offer extensive facilities including: • Residents exclusive clubhouse

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*Pricing and availability correct at the time of printing but subject to change without notice. Information about services and facilities is correct at time of printing but subject to change. Photographs are for illustrative purposes and may depict items not provided by Lendlease, like furniture. March 2019. Published by Lendlease RL Realty (VIC) Pty Ltd ABN 55 124 646 484.

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EMILY FESZCZUK

8- year- old Glenmore Park resident Jazmine Alessio has been crowned Miss Teen Australia International 2019 and now she has her sights set on the rest of the world. The beautiful local teenager will head to the United States to compete for the world title against 50 other young women from around the globe. “I started competing in pageants back in 2015 and now I’ve got the national title, I’m now going international to Charleston, West Virginia in July,” Ms Alessio told the Weekender. “Because I’ve only just won the title, I’m still really excited to go over but I’m quite nervous, hopefully with preparation and practice I’ll be OK.” Ms Alessio was hesitant to first start pageants but soon realised they were about growing as a person and gaining confidence along with a charitable side. “You learn so much about yourself and the other great aspect is that this pageant is a very charity-based one, so you get to go out in your community and raise funds for a charity platform that is close to you,” Ms Alessio said.

“My platform is the Heart Foundation because in February last year I lost my grandfather to heart disease. “It’s one of the leading killers in Australia, so I guess my main goal is trying to raise awareness and educate people on the signs you must look out for.” Over the next few months Ms Alessio will have to prepare to compete in rounds including fitness wear, fun fashion and evening wear along with personal oneon-one interviews with five judges and answering questions on stage. She will also be travelling to Europe before she goes to the States, showing off her title and raising awareness for her cause and pageants in general. Ms Alessio said pageants are about a lot more than just the glitz and glamour that is seen on the surface. “People see a sash and crown and might think one thing but when you start talking about the charitable aspect they realise there’s so much more to it than just being pretty on the outside,’’ Ms Alessio said. “You have to get out in your community and get involved, which a lot of people don’t know about, that’s why I joined pageants so I can go out and promote myself, the charity and the pageant system itself.’’

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

More than a sash and crown

Jazmine Alessio has been crowned Miss Teen Australia International

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

Blackwell Public School Uniform Shop Licence Tenders are called for the licence of the Blackwell Public School Uniform Shop for the commencement of Term 4, 2019 and for a term of approximately 2 years. Annual school enrolments are anticipated to be approximately 650 students. General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to: Mrs Kristine Hudswell Phone: 02 9670 5080 Email: kristine.hudswell@det.nsw.edu.au Tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Confidential- School Uniform Shop Tender”and sent to Attention: The Principal Mrs Kristine Hudswell 58 Blackwell Avenue St Clair, 2759 Tenders close 3pm on Friday 3rd May 2019 A tender visit and briefing session is planned to be held in the near future.

All applicants must make themselves familiar with clause 2 of the tender offer.

Social media’s bad prediction

ScoMo won’t ‘do a Gladys’

All the snowflakes on social media must be devastated at Labor’s poor showing at the State Election. For months, Facebook and Twitter has been so rampant with negativity about the current government that I almost started to believe Labor could win. Of course, those who talk about politics on social media are in the vast minority and often very closely aligned to parties, or misinformed. Those who took a smarter, more sensible approach in choosing who to vote for selected a government that has delivered time and time again over the last eight years. Congratulation to Gladys Berejiklian and her team. CHRIS SMITH, PENRITH

The success of Gladys Berejiklian and the Coalition at State level surely won’t translate to the federal poll in May. Scott Morrison is a lame duck, and while he may get some confidence out of the party’s performance in New South Wales, he’s got a long way to go before he’ll go anywhere near success when it comes to the national poll. I just can’t buy what Scott Morrison is selling, and I’m still not sure why Malcolm Turnbull is no longer our Prime Minister. I think Bill Shorten is a sure thing, which is actually a bit of a scary thought. STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

The war is over Congratulations to the successful candidates and commiserations to the rest... it’s now time to respect and support our elected representatives. CRAIG COCHRANE, VIA FACEBOOK

Stuart scores victory Congratulations to the State Liberal Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres for his win. Stuart and his NSW state team have given Penrith what they need. Infrastructure, better roads, public services and the much-needed makeover of Nepean Hospital. LORNA MCCANTY, EMU PLAINS

Toll should be addressed I congratulate the Liberal Party on its success last weekend but the M4 toll really does need to be addressed. This cannot be forgotten about for the next four years. The one Labor policy I supported at this election was the introduction of cashback, which would ensure that all of us who have to travel on the M4 every day get some relief. I am drowning in toll costs at the moment, and have now become one of the Church Street brigade who exit the motorway early and spend another 30 minutes in the car. Time is money, but when money is tight, the untolled road triumphs. CHRISTIAN STANLEY, VIA EMAIL

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

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

THORNTON PARK

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This is your opportunity to secure an apartment and enjoy the best retirement you could dream of, with a great range of activities, services and onsite amenities. Featuring a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments, many with a study, available from just $495,000. Dream big and reserve yours now.

To learn more and arrange an inspection, call Margaret Sullivan on 1800 842 006 Brought to you by Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT)

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

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Fostering a greyhound can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience for families

ost people don’t know they can foster a greyhound to see if it’s a good match for their lifestyle, but Kelly and Paul Brignall of Glenmore Park, have firsthand experience. Kelly and Paul’s current foster dogs, Hattie (nine) and Wesley (10) came from Greyhound Rescue (GR), a Sydney charity with kennels near Camden. The couple decided to foster because it’s the perfect way to prepare a greyhound for a successful adoption into its forever home. They fostered then adopted three previous greyhounds. “Fostering is exceptionally rewarding. Knowing you’ve saved a life and helped a greyhound is the most amazing feeling. We’ve fostered many greys and would do it again in a heartbeat. They make the most amazing pets because they’re unique, loving and easy,” Mrs Brignall said. She said Hattie and Wesley took to home life like ducks to water. “These two dogs’ adjustment to home life was easy. They explored the house and garden then picked their favourite spots, laid down and went to sleep,” she said. Mr and Mrs Brignall are also kennel volunteers with GR. “It can be very physically hard graft, but the love you get from the greys is just amazing,” she said.

Glenmore Park resident Kelly Brignall with Hattie and Wesley “It’s just great spending time with the kennel hounds, knowing you’re helping them towards life as a family pet. I’d encourage anyone to give volunteering a go. “Right now, my favourite kennel kid is Atticus. He is the longest- serving kennel kid, having been with GR over a year. I’m just so hopeful he’ll find his special forever home.

“Watching him run around the sensory garden made for the kennel dogs just lit up my heart.” Janet Flann, GR founder, said GR pays the full cost of necessary vet bills incurred while a dog is in foster care, while carers cover food, shelter and flea treatments. “We’ll supply muzzle, coat, collar and lead. Foster carers pay for food. We can help with costs if necessary. How long a

hound stays depends on how many adoption applications we get, but carers should be prepared to keep a dog for at least six months,” she said. Peter Flann, GR co-founder, said as well as food, shelter and love, foster greyhounds also need basic training. “For many of our dogs, this is the first time they will live as a pet and it can be overwhelming,” he said. Mr Flann said carers are required to meet and greet potential adopters when the time comes. “They can always adopt, but carers tell us it’s great to see their foster dog go to its forever home,” he said. “If they decide to adopt, our greyhounds are de- sexed, vaccinated, heartworm tested, all for only $350 each.” Mr Flann added that carers don’t need to worry about the type of dog they’ll end up fostering. “We like to match foster carers with dogs, so we ensure compatibility with your household and other pets,” he said. “People who are interested in adopting or fostering should complete an application form.” For more information about fostering a greyhound and to learn more about the process, visit greyhoundrescue.com.au/ foster/foster-process.

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Dogs get second chance

Penrith Women’s Health Centre FEMALE DOCTOR WANTING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE You might be looking to scale back your current time commitments, or supplement another part time position, or perhaps you are caring for family and would like to work part time with predictable hours. How it Works • The first appointment is at 9.30am and the last appointment is at 3.30pm. • 30–60 minute appointments, which are all bulk billed • Follow-up phone calls and administrative time in your day • 60 minute lunch break between 1pm and 2pm. Your remuneration • Untaxed “salary packaging” component of $611 per fortnight, plus – For Casual employment, $97.38 per hour; or – For Permanent Part Time, $77.63 per hour, plus Annual Leave & Personal Leave

Cnr Henry & Station Street, PENRITH

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Contact: Penrith Women’s Health Centre on 4721 8749 or pwhcentre@pwhc.org.au for a full Job Package to apply Jane Gold, Manager, Penrith Women’s Health Centre

 4721 8749

Penrith Women’s Health Centre is a community organisation run by women for women and is funded by NSW Health www.penrithwomenshealthcentre.com

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We are looking for an experienced female General Practitioner to work either 1 or 2 days per week and is keen to use her skills and experience to contribute to women’s wellbeing in Penrith and surrounding areas. Are you an experienced GP with an interest in Women’s Health, who would like to: • Help disadvantaged or vulnerable women get the support and treatment they need for women’s health issues in a safe environment? • Take the time to deal with patients holistically, from routine tests through to interaction with other health services such as counselling, specialist services or family violence support? • Be supported by further training to fulfil this work e.g. how to screen for domestic and family violence, Vocational Training or other Women’s Health related topics and practices.

Friday, March 29, 2019 ÂŤ the western weekender

Help and understanding Stroke Recovery Clubs aim to stop social isolation and provide much-needed help NICOLA BARTON

urviving a stroke can be a difficult and isolating experience. For Penrith resident Len Butler, coming to terms with his â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;new normalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; had a huge impact, as he found himself feeling lost with not many people around him who really understood what he was going through. After listening to the advice of a friend, he joined a Stroke Recovery Club, which he says has changed his life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you are released from hospital you go home and they provide you with a physio and occupational therapist and they are there for a while and suddenly they all disappear and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on your own and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when the isolation starts,â&#x20AC;? Mr Butler said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A million questions are going through your mind and then the people who you thought were your friends start dropping off. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fear or what but they disappear and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see them.â&#x20AC;? Mr Butler first suffered his stroke back in 2010. Paralysed from the waist down, lengthy rehabilitation allowed him to walk once again. During this time, Mr Butler was living on

the Central Coast and became a part of the club, run by the Stroke Recovery Association. Now, after moving to Penrith to be closer to family, he is advocating for a group to start up in Penrith. As it stands 700 stroke patients go through Nepean Hospital every year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There must be a high percentage of people in the area who are feeling isolated and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to do with the rest of their lives, so thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why I want to set up this group,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can talk to doctors and nurses but the truth is they havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t walked your path, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand the frustration in trying to do something you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do anymore, so I think I think the major factor is youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re talking to people who actually have walked your path.â&#x20AC;? The group, led by its members, can do anything from fun activities, outings, talks or even meet up just for a chat. With a growing and ageing population, Mr Butler believes the club would be of real benefit to Penrith locals. To find out more or to register for the new Penrith Stroke Recovery Club, contact Stroke Clubs Coordinator Jon Blackwell at the Stroke Recovery Association on 1300 650 594 or via email on strokeclubs@ strokensw.org.au.

Len Butler and Jon Blackwell at Nepean Hospital. Photo: Melinda Jane

Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News The weekly views of Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mayor

Penrith Library upgrade If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been inside Penrith Library recently, then youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re missing out. Council has recently completed a refurbishment to modernise the space and systems offered there and I encourage everyone to visit and make the most of the updated facilities. Some of the improvements include a new system to make borrowing and returning books quicker and easier than ever before; additional study desks, expanded quiet zones and a new and improved local history research room. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also new training spaces for the Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wide range of community workshops and classes. These rooms offer greater functionality, and are more conducive to good communication and productive learning and teaching interactions.

Penrith Library is already widely recognised as one of the best in NSW, if not Australia, and our efforts to update and enhance this facility will ensure it continues to meet the diverse needs of our local, and growing communities. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank everyone for their patience over the past few months while this refurbishment has taken place. After you visit the library, and see the changes for yourself, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll agree it was well worth the wait. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not already a member of the Library, now is the perfect time to join. Membership to the library is free to all residents and gives you access to a wide range of digital services including e-Magazines, ebooks and audiobooks.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

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Receive the paper online every week Did you know that you can receive the latest edition of The Western Weekender every single week direct to your inbox? Read digital replica versions of the Weekender and Western Property every Thursday morning on your computer or phone. To subscribe, visit www.westernweekender.com.au. Digital subscription is free and a great way to get the paper as soon as each edition is released.

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

Hope never fades: Remains of local soldier found in France

Belief and persistence: How John Maclean inspires us all

NICOLA BARTON

he remains of a Kingswood soldier have been identified in a mass grave in France, after being missing for over 100 years. Railway worker Edward James Hope was enlisted in the Australian Army in 1915 and disappeared 12 months later whilst fighting overseas. After a 10-year investigation led by historians as well as the French and Australian governments, his remains have been identified in Fromelles. Researcher and President of the St Marys and District Historical Society, Lyn Forde, played a key role in uncovering the mystery, linking his relatives Sue and Lindsay Hope’s DNA to help identify his remains. “I cried when I found out, I was just so glad that after 10 years we found him, 10 years for us but 103 years in the ground. We took a chance to see if the DNA would match and it did,” Ms Forde said. “DNA has opened up a whole wide range of things and with the DNA of the soldiers, actually being able to identify them is just wonderful.” Corporal Hope was 28-years-old when he was killed in his very first battle, alongside 2000 other soldiers. The grave, which was discovered 12 years ago, contained the remains of 250 soldiers. He is one of seven to have been recently

John Maclean is participating in the NAB RunWest event this weekend NICOLA BARTON

ocal legend John Maclean is lacing up his walking shoes for the NAB RunWest event, in the hope to raise vital funds for his foundation which supports children in wheelchairs. The former Penrith Panthers player was left a paraplegic after he was hit by an eight tonne truck back in 1988. He defied all odds after 25 years in a wheelchair by relearning to walk. His story, which has inspired people all over the world, has led him to become a sports icon as he continues to push through whatever adversities he faces. “For me there was a glimmer of hope, so the transition was letting go from being a wheelchair athlete and to see

Edward James Hope found, although over the past decade 166 others have been identified. Edward James Hope will now be buried in France with the appropriate honours and headstone.

what I was able to do, that was the turning point when I started to believe that I could do more,” Mr Maclean said. “If we don’t believe that we can do things then we don’t do them, if we create dreams we can work towards them.” This Sunday, March 31, Mr Maclean will walk alongside hundreds of participants at the new Sydney Zoo. Growing up in Tregear, Mr Maclean said he is looking forward to returning to western Sydney. “RunWest is a great opportunity for me to go back all these years later to be a part of the area I grew up in, so it will be special to take those steps and for those supporting my foundation to give back to kids in wheelchairs right around our country,” he said.

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the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

presents

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

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WWW.KIRINARI.COM.AU

LIVE YOUR WAY 02 8525 4000

www.livingmyway.org.au Not-for-proﬁt | NDIS Registered 28

pril 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. This April, Autism Awareness Australia is celebrating everyone that makes up the wonderful autism community! From the incredible individuals on the spectrum, to the families and friends who love them, the educators, employers, medical and health professionals who support them… we all have #OurAutismCrew. Autism Awareness Australia would like you to join them and submit a photo

of someone, or everyone, in your crew and tell them why they’re so special to you. You can nominate yourself, a child, a sibling, mum or dad, a grandparent, teacher, therapist, doctor, mentor… anyone who is part of your inner circle. It’s an opportunity to recognise and celebrate them and the positive impact they’ve had in your life. Autism Awareness Australia will be sharing the submissions across their social media pages from April 2-12. Visit www.autismawareness.com.au.

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Come together for World Autism Awareness Day on April 2

Autism and developmental delay specialists

the western weekender Âť Friday, March 29, 2019

SDN Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s therapies Contact us to arrange a free consultation

Therapy and support as unique as your child

www.sdn.org.au/childrenstherapies 1300 831 445 WW37043

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

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SEE Foundation – Providing DisAbility support with a difference! SEE Foundation is a small disability provider in the Activity hub of Penrith, we are NDIS registered and provide a completely inclusive and unique approach to supporting people with All Abilities. This approach is based on the premise that disability support is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution resulting in supports and activities that change with each person’s ongoing changing needs and interests. We believe that everyone has the right to live their very best life and we are here to help you achieve that with: DAY PROGRAM: We have vacancies now activities or that ballet or drama class you in our specialised and unique day program have been wanting to take. where there is no overcrowding, no SATURDAY GROUP: Join our fun filled understaffing and no admin charges. Just Saturday program aimed at socialisation, high quality unique service tailored to your money and travel skills whilst enjoying fun needs. activities like Bowling, Painting, Cooking, ACCESS TO COMMUNITY, SOCIAL & Swimming, Horse Riding, Mini Golf and RECREATION ACTIVITIES: We can assist more. you engage in the community by connecting The time is now to experience the difference and supporting you to undertake leisure that comes with a provider that has that and sporting activities, health and wellness small community and family feel . . . So if you are yet to use your NDIS plan or ready to change your supports call SEE Foundation now phone 4721 1966. Also visit our Website for our full range of services and supports at

SEE FOUNDATION | UNIT 3, 69 YORK ROAD, JAMISONTOWN |  4721 1966 (Entrance off Batt street (inside the Abcoe Centre) with easy access to the fun of Bowling, Flip Out, Jamison Park and more . . .

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www.seefoundation.com.au

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SPONSORED CONTENT

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

Educational Services

One Giant Leap Australia creates unique, immersive learning experiences to develop and enhance mathematical, scientic and technological literacy for all members of the community. As well as the skills of problem solving, critical analysis and creative thinking, participants develop and enhance their skills in leadership, creativity and exibility that are necessary for the workforce of today and tomorrow.

0412 326 509 | 0438 171 070

Website: onegiantleapaustralia.com

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These activities are helping to inspire and excite Australians about what lies ahead.

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

FLORIST OF THE YEAR and BUSINESS GROWTH OF THE YEAR

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

CHAMPION

AWARDS 2019

FINALIST

EMU FLORIST To all our amazing customers, we thank you for your support and we truly love our local community. The reaction to our flowers and services offered have been amazing. We are truly blessed to have such a supportive community. Our goal is to always exceed our clients’ expectations. “Wedding and Corporate Specialists” Award-winning florist for the Penrith press business awards 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2017. True Local Business Awards winners 2006, 2007, and 2008.

Emu Florist provides fresh flowers, same day delivery locally, Sydney, State wide, Australia wide and overseas.

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State Finalists in NSW & ACT Small Business Champion Awards 2008 and 2009.

sales@emuflorist.com.au | www.emuflorist.com.au | 4735 1106 / 1800 261 163 Shop 6, Lennox Village corner Pyramid Street & Great Western Highway, Emu Plains

PHARMACY We specialise in the highest quality tailor made medicine to suit individual patient needs Kingswood Compounding Pharmacy can help you continue with your medications during times of drug shortage or when commercially available medicines are not suitable for your specific needs. We can make: • Bio-identical hormones in various dose forms (capsules, troches, creams, gels, pessaries etc) • Products deleted by their manufacturers • Fertility medicine • Liquid forms of medications usually available in solid form • Pain medications • Hair loss treatments • Long-acting forms of commercially available medications • Veterinary formulations • Lactose and Gluten Free dosage forms • Natural therapies • Dermatological preparations

236 Great Western Highway, Kingswood Website: Kingswoodcompoundingpharmacy.com.au Ph 4721 2752

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Convenient drive-thru service now available (Terms & conditions apply)

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Professional Services “Legal problems affect not just us, but our livelihood & happiness. We care about our clients and their families” – Cathy Stevenson.

WE SPECIALISE IN FAMILY LAW

It is a harsh reality that families going through court are not supported by the system. This often results in financial and emotional damages. Our approach in family law, improves the practices of traditional law. Having a compassionate and understanding lawyer and a professional team, working together to get matters finalised in less time, helps families move on and heal quicker.

As a Finalist in the Australian Small Business Champion Awards, it gives us another opportunity to create awareness in the legal industry for a more modern holistic approach by focusing on helping families through difficult times, and avoiding the stresses of going to court as opposed to usual methods of traditional law.

At Cathy Stevenson & Associates, we understand the stress of separation and sometimes a telephone call after hours or over the weekend can ease the burden. Our firm provides free legal advice 24/7.

96 Windsor Street, Richmond Website: www.cathystevensonandassociates.com.au Ph 4555 4622

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Dealing with stressful situations, our staff remains focused and positive. Through hard work and determination we have built a successful business.

Professional Services Small Business Champion Entrepreneur Business of the Decade Business Growth

Nepean Regional Security Nepean Regional Security has been named finalist in this years Australian Small Business Champion Awards in not 1 but 4 categories. Nominated in Professional Services, Business Growth, Gina Field as the Small Business Champion Entrepreneur and Business of the Decade. NRS as the business is aptly known as, has grown from a home based business to now employing 50 FTE personnel. Winning over 26 industry awards including an international business award, Managing Director of NRS has been featured in Newspapers, TV business shows, Magazines and Radio whilst running and growing her 24/7 security business.

1/42-46 Camden St, Penrith Ph 4732 5369

www.nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au

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Master Lic. No. 405714685

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Use Instagram to build your business’ profile

DO YOU NEED A PROFESSIONAL VOICEOVER, RADIO COMMERCIAL, ON HOLD MESSAGE OR ANY OTHER FORM OF AUDIO RECORDED? *VZ[ LMMLJ[P]L 7YVMLZZPVUHS

Katina Beveridge // Digital Business Solutions Advisor Western Sydney Business Centre | 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

-HZ[ [\YUHYV\UKZ 4HSL HUK MLTHSL ]VPJLZ H]HPSHISL

“Ultra-fast, super professional and delivering way much more than I ever anticipated” - Melinda Leyshon, write copy

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www.happyhourmedia.com.au

nstagram has around a billion registered users, with 500 million of them logging in, liking, commenting, and posting content every day. 60 per cent of these users search for and discover new products on this platform. It also doesn’t take much time and effort to manage, as long as you have the right strategy in place. Here’s four useful tips on how to use Instagram to grow your local business and achieve your business goals. Switch to a business account Some business owners think that switching to an Instagram business account will diminish the popularity and reach of their brand. This is so not true. The value of a business account is the same as that of a personal account. But switching to a business account will give you access to a lot of features not available to personal accounts, such as the analytics page. Have an attracting bio One of the things that users look at when they look at your account is your bio. Your description should be crea-

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

SHOW YOU

tive, succinct and clear. Include your location, areas you serve, who you are, and what you do. The space is limited so make sure what you put in there matters. Don’t forget to add an eyecatching profile image. You can use your brand logo as long as it is recognisable. Don’t skimp on hashtags Hashtags are crucial in increasing your reach and growing your account. Create a list of popular hashtags that are relevant to your business and location. No matter how popular or trending a hashtag is, don’t be tempted to use it unless it makes sense with your brand. Irrelevant hashtags will only make your posts look awkward and promotional. Use high-quality photos Instagram is a highly-visual platform, so you need to make sure your posts stand out. Posting blurry, unbalanced or low-quality photos will only make your feed unpopular. Invest in a good camera or a smartphone with a good camera to take high-quality pictures with. Implement photography concepts and apply filters if necessary, to make your images more attractive.

WHY.. WHAT.. HOW..

Local Business Advisors are ready to assist you with Starting or Running Your Business Two Fully Subsidised & Confidential Appointments Small Business Workshops & Training Offices across Western Sydney & the Blue Mountains Mobile Advisors Available to visit you at your home or business WW33415

02 4721 5011 W W W . W S B U S I N E S S . C O M . A U 54

PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Choir brings music and joy EMILY FESZCZUK

he extraordinary, energetic and talented Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir (SGLC) will be heading to Penrith for this year’s Voices in the Valley

Show. The concert is presented by the Australian Dysphonia Network to celebrate World Voice Day. This year it will be hosted by Australian funnyman Anthony Ackroyd and feature performances by homegrown star Gia along with Judith Rough, Steven Brown, Riverlands Harmony Choir, Sheridan Gaudry, Blue Mountains Musical

Society, students from The Music House and regular favourites the NordoffRobbins KeyWord Sign Choir and Nepean Valley Voices Children’s Choir. Opening the show is the highly acclaimed SGLC, whose unique energy has put them in demand all over the world. SGLC Music Director Rachelle Elliot spoke to the Weekender about the inclusive choir. “The choir is non-audition so involves anyone in the queer community who wants to participate but also allies and family with the purpose to create community within the LGBTQIA community and make good music together,” she said.

“We support things like marriage equality which was a big issue recently for the choir where we had a song that was written and made a video that was shared on platforms like Facebook and YouTube to put our voice in the mix.” The choir has roughly 100 members but depending on the event will have anywhere from 20 to 70 perform at a time. “I have picked fun pieces, but I tried to tailor specifically to World Voice Day and the dysphonia network and their aims with the program being somehow inspirational to the people performing and the audience,’’ Rachelle said. “The choir itself, although it is the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir and might

have an agenda, in actual fact is still a choir and we focus on providing excellent music to entertain people.” World Voice Day highlights the beauty of the voice and the role it plays in every aspect of our daily lives. The choir is proud to use their voices to support the cause and encourage all to be involved. “As singers we choose to use our voice as a form of expression, that is our music instrument and the voice is something we use to communicate every day,” Rachelle said. ‘Voices In The Valley’ will be on at The Joan in Penrith on Saturday, April 6 at 7pm. Tickets are from $15. To book, call 4723 7600 or visit www.thejoan.com.au.

Dumbo

(PG Mild themes, some scenes may scare young children.) Daily except Sat, Wed: 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM, 3:40PM, 6:30PM, 8:40PM. Sat: 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM, 3:40PM, 6:30PM, 9:10PM. Wed: 10:00AM, 10:30AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM, 3:40PM, 6:30PM, 8:50PM.

PENRITH

Us (MA15 Strong themes and violence) Thurs, Sun, Mon, Tues: 11:40AM, 2:20PM, 3:50PM, 4:40PM, 6:20PM, 7:10PM, 8:10PM, 9:10PM.

SESSIONS VALID 28 MARCH TO 3 APRIL

Fri, Sat: 11:40AM, 2:20PM, 3:50PM, 4:40PM, 6:20PM, 7:10PM, 8:10PM, 9:10PM, 10:40PM. Wed: 11:40AM, 2:20PM, 3:50PM, 4:30PM, 6:20PM, 7:00PM, 8:10PM, 9:10PM. WW34887

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

LEGO Movie 2, The (PG Mild themes and animated violence) Daily: 11:00AM, 12:50PM, 1:30PM, 4:40PM, 5:40PM.

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, March 29

Peter Powers – Penrith Panthers $39, 8pm 1800 061 991 Mary’s Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 DJ – Australian Arms Free entry, 10pm 4731 3881 Pool Comp – Penrith Hotel $3, 7pm 4721 2060 Karaoke & DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Afro Cuban Allstars Blacktown Workers, 9830 0600 Saturday, March 30, 8pm, $69

Live DJ – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Acoustic Duo – Red Cow Free entry, 6pm 4721 5666 RnB DJ – Red Cow Free entry, 9pm 4721 5666 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Aus Blink 182 Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Senior Moments – The Joan From $55, 7.30pm 4723 7511 Bag Raiders – O’Donoghues From $20, 7pm 4735 5509 Rock City Saints – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Matchbox – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211

Ugly Past – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Senior Moments – The Joan From $55, 1pm & 7.30pm 4723 7511 Old School Band – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Endless Summer Beach Party – Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 The Starliners – Blacktown Workers From $10, 8pm 9830 0600 Chris Drummond Duo – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Marvel VS DC Trivia – Hubertus Country Club Free entry, 7pm 4773 4444 Marriage: Love & Law – Penrith Regional Gallery Free entry, running until June 16 4735 1100 Don’t Fence Me In – Penrith Regional Gallery Free entry, running until June 16 4735 1100 Roy Dalgarno: Labour Day – Penrith Regional Gallery Free entry, running until June 16 4735 1100 One Hit Wonders – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 Gabriel Emilia – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Max’s Hard Rockin Amigos – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Beatworks Band – Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9670 3050 Wolfe Brothers – The Hydro Majestic Hotel $40, 8pm 4782 6885 Roc A Tac – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555

Sunday, March 31

Be-Bop-A-Lula Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Acoustic Guitar – Blacktown Workers Club Free entry, 2pm 8822 2444 Male Welsh Choir The Joan, 4723 7600 Sunday, March 31, 7.30pm, From $50

Saturday, March 30

Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4734 5555 DJ – Red Cow Free entry, 7pm 4721 5666 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Greg Poppleton – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200

NAB RunWest Finish Line Festival – West HQ Rooty Hill Free entry, 8am 9677 4916 Penrith Working Truck Show – Museum Of Fire From $25, 8am 4731 3000

Friday, April 5

Krazy Kat – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 One Hit Wonders – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Mary’s Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 DJ – Australian Arms Free entry, 10pm 4731 3881 Mr James Band St Marys Band Club, 9623 1211 Sunday, March 31, 8pm, Free entry

Pool Comp – Penrith Hotel $3, 7pm 4721 2060 Karaoke & DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Acoustic Duo – Red Cow Free entry, 6pm 4721 5666 RnB DJ – Red Cow Free entry, 9pm 4721 5666 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Webers Circus – Luddenham Showground From $18, 7pm 0448 247 287

Touch Crazy – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Frankie Valley & The Four Seasons/The Beach Boys – St Marys RSL From $10, 9pm 9623 6555 M7 – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Groovology – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 The Men In Black Duo – Blacktown Workers From $39, 8pm 9830 0600 Twilight Car Show – Hubertus Country Club Free entry, 4pm 4773 4444 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4734 5555 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 The Shiz – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 9pm 9625 5500 Rock City Saints v Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Webers Circus – Luddenham Showground From $18, 3pm & 7pm 0448 247 287 Snow White & The Vertically Challenged – John Lees Centre From $20, 11am & 2pm 4735 5422

Sunday, April 7

Sydney Brick Show – Panthers Marquee From $12, 9am 1800 061 991 Bobby Benton – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Sydney Balalaika Orchestra – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub From $27, 3pm 4723 5050 Neverending 80s VS 90s Penrith Panthers, 1800 061 991 Saturday, April 9, 8.30pm, $35

Saturday, April 6

Sydney Brick Show – Panthers Marquee From $12, 9am 1800 061 991 Care Of The Performing Voice Masterclass – The Joan From $15, 3.30pm 4723 7511 Voices In The Valley – The Joan From $15, 7pm 4723 7511 I Want To Know What Love Is – The Joan From $30, 7.30pm 4723 7511 Mulgoa Road Jazz Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200

Kids Petting Zoo – Blacktown Workers Club Free entry, 12pm 8822 2444 Webers Circus – Luddenham Showground From $18, 11am 0448 247 287

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SATURDAY 6TH APRIL 2019 Walking to help families harmed by domestic violence Walk/Run/Scooter/Stroll along the bank of the Nepean River. Start and ﬁnish anytime between 7am–12:30pm Supporting WestCare’s ‘Fresh Start Go!’ Penrith DV Support Project ALL AGES – REGISTRATION $30 ADULTS, $15 FOR 15 AND UNDER.

WestCare Community Services 10th Annual Community Walk

O D UST

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Leonay Probus Club Third Friday of the month 4735 5157 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Penrith Museum of Printing Saturdays from 10am-2pm Pen Paceway • 0415 625 573

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Nepean Retired Men’s Club Third Wednesday of each month • 0401 507 260 Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of each month • The Hub at 10am

Country music and mighty rigs at annual show

Come down to the annual Penrith Working Truck Show for a day of country music and family fun. There will be hundreds of custom trucks and fire engines. Live entertainment by country music stars, with free kids rides and activities. It is on at the Museum of Fire in Penrith on Sunday, March 31 from 8am. Call 4731 3000 for tickets.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

Sunset Station Singers Mondays 7.00pm St Marys RSL • 0408 218 965 Glenmore Park Probus Club Third Wednesday of the month • 9673 2580 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143

Easter fun at the Bandy

Classic theatre by the river

Hop on down to St Marys Band Club’s free kids Easter circus. It is on Saturday, April 6 from 5pm.

Shakespeare by the River presents ‘Cymbeline’ at Regatta Park on March 29 to 31 from 6pm. Tickets are $20.

Penrith RSL Travel Club New members welcome 0405 332 464 WW36002

DIGITAL REACH IS DECREASING Is your digital reach decreasing? Are you spending more to get less? Talk to us today about how you can get more from your marketing dollar. Penrith’s biggest on the ground sales and marketing team is here to help.

4722 2998 | sales@westernweekender.com.au | www.westernweekender.com.au

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

Channel Seven has revealed the 

cast for its upcoming special ‘Ladies Night’. On the special, eight female celebrities will disrobe to raise awareness for women’s health, particularly breast cancer. Hosted by Georgie Parker, the celebrities involved include Lynne McGranger, Simone Callahan, Lisa Curry, Casey Donovan, Ella Hooper, Rachael Finch and Nadia Bartel. An airdate has yet to be announced.

10 has confirmed game show ‘Ce

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

lebrity Name Game’ will replace failed quiz show ‘Pointless’ at 6pm weeknights. Grant Denyer will host the new series, which will also feature plenty of celebrities including Yvie Jones, Angie Kent, Beau Ryan and Courtney Act. It’s expected to premiere next month.

Still on quiz shows, and journalist 

Jennifer Byrne has been announced as host of new SBS quiz show ‘Mastermind’. The show, which will air at 6pm weeknights, will see contestants quizzed in general knowledge and specialist rounds. ‘Mastermind’ premieres on Monday, April 15.

APRIL 7

8.30PM

THE CASE AGAINST ADNAN SYED, SBS

Channel Nine has confirmed ratings 

smash ‘Travel Guides’ will return for a fourth season. The fun travel show, which is currently enjoying its best season of ratings yet, is now casting new travellers for its fourth season. You must be a group of two to four people, aged 18 or over. You also must be able to travel between July and November 2019. To apply, visit go.mycastingnet.com/Apply/Show/ TravelGuidesS4.

Still on auditions, and Channel Nine 

is looking for contestants to be on ‘Hot Seat’ with Eddie McGuire. To apply, visit hotseat.castasugar.com.

APRIL 6PM CELEBRITY NAME GAME, 10

If you loved the original Serial pod

cast, you must watch this. Next month, SBS will screen HBO true crime documentary ‘The Case Against Adnan Syed’,

which centres around a young Baltimore man who may have been wrongly convicted in 1999 of killing his girlfriend Hae Min Lee. Directed by Academy Award nominee Amy Berg, the four-part series will premiere on Sunday, April 7 at 8.30pm. Popular 10 lifestyle program ‘The 

Living Room’ returns to screens tonight, March 29 at 7.30pm. Landscaper Matt Leacy joins the show this year alongside regulars Chris Brown and Amanda Keller.

MAX will again count down ‘The 

1000 Greatest Songs of All Time’ over the Easter long weekend. WSFM’s Brendan ‘Jonesy’ Jones and Amanda Keller will host the countdown compiled from viewer votes, industry experts, chart ratings and song popularity.

Support the Western Weekender fundraising for local Charities. Order your NEW 2018/2019 Entertainment™ Membership!

Your purchase of an Entertainment Membership contributes to one of the Western Weekender’s local charities help us achieve our goal by sharing this link with your friends and family. Thanks for your support!

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Go to www.entbook.com.au/948q083

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Stories of love, loss, heartbreak and more at The Joan EMILY FESZCZUK

It is a joyous and exhilarating roller coaster ride of emotions about love triumphing and what could have been when love is lost. Take the dizzying ride with your friends and loved ones for a great night out. ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ will be on at The Joan on Saturday, April 6 at 7.30pm. Tickets are from $30. To book or for more information, call 4723 7600 or visit www.thejoan.com.au.

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

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ove is everywhere. Around the world people sing and dance for love. They write poems and stories about love. ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ throws a spotlight on love. It deals with memories about love, people’s fantasies, their crushes and conquests. Created from over 800 anonymously submitted stories of love from the general public, the show turns these secret confessions and memories into a marvellous centre stage storyboard. It is sexy and heartbreaking all in one. Following sell out seasons in Brisbane and Melbourne, this thrilling production is on its national tour and coming all the way to Penrith.

Men In Black

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he Men In Black are back. Internationally renowned artist Dean Bourne and acclaimed country singer Chris Callaghan will transform and take you on a magical celebration of the iconic hits of superstars Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. The sensational Dean has come direct from a sold-out national tour to perform the music of the legendary Roy Orbison. He covers the classics from ‘Dream Baby’, ‘Danny Boy’ and of course the hit track ‘Pretty Woman’. Dean has been described as “The Chosen One”, both physically and vocally replicating Roy

Orbison, which has mesmerised audiences around the world earning him standing ovations. Chris has been a fan of Johnny Cash since he was a child and was inspired by him to pursue his dream of becoming a country singer and entertainer. He has been performing his songs for many years and you can expect to hear the famous ‘Walk The Line’ and ‘Ring Of Fire’. The two men come together and share their talent for music in a great show. ‘The Men In Black’ will be on at Blacktown Workers Club on Saturday, April 6 at 8pm. Tickets are from $39. To book or for more information, call 9830 0600 or visit www.workersclub.com.au

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EMILY FESZCZUK

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

SH CA ES L SA LY ON

4th-7th April

LUDDENHAM

LUDDENHAM SHOWGROUND, PARK ROAD

Showtimes Thu 4th April

7.00pm

Fri 5th April

7.00pm

Sat 6th April

3:00pm & 7.00pm

Sunday 7th April 11.00am ONLY – Last Show

Ticket Prices VIP: RINGSIDE: A RESERVE: B RESERVE:

Adult $42 Adult $35 Adult $30 Adult $28

Music with meaning

Child $32 Child $25 Child $20 Child $18

EMILY FESZCZUK

‘With a touch of Wild West’ With the famous wheel of death, TRAPEZE, miniature HORSES, dogs & CLOWNS PLUS EXCITING CIRCUS ACTS. Boot Scoot Dancing, Whip Cracking FUN & much more.

Fun & laughter for all ages! Phone Bookings 9am-7.30pm:

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0448 247 287 (0448 CIRCUS) Book Online: www.weberscircus.com (Child pays 3 - 14 years) Tickets on sale 1 hour before each show CASH SALES AT THE ONSITE BOX OFFICE (Wed-Sun 10am-5pm)

he internationally acclaimed Sydney Balalaika Orchestra is coming from Russia with love. The 28- piece Russian folk orchestra dress in stunning Russian costumes and perform on traditional folk instruments including balalaika, bayan, domra and cimbalom. Their performances captivate audiences with their beautiful vocals and dazzling music that captures the essence, magic and mystery of Russia. Talented director Victor Serghie meticulously arranges intricate pieces with authentic Russian folk tunes and

other melodies that cover the themes of the countryside, trees, rivers, lakes and of course love. They are renowned for their sublime performances in Moscow, St Petersburg, Siberia, Beijing, Auckland and now it’s your turn. Come and experience the visual and vibrant performance that will have you entranced. The cultural concert full of soul will be an unforgettable experience. Sydney Balalaika Orchestra will be on at the Blue Mountains Theatre and Community Hub on Sunday, April 7 at 3pm. Tickets are from $27. To book, call 4723 5050 or visit bluemountainstheatreandhub.com.au.

St Marys Dutch Festival March 2019 FREE EVENT

Friday 29th Saturday 30th Sunday 31st

10am-Late 10am-late 10am-4pm

Dutch shop, food and bar – Information stalls Dutch Australian genealogy group | Dutch Aussie Cultural Centre Nepean Multicultural Access Saturday & Sunday Children’s activity stall & lucky dips (Didgeridoo painting competition)

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Friday: Senior Day – Bring your senior friends. For seniors the ﬁrst cup of coffee is on us. 10am-3pm Little Black Ducks. 11am The Evergreen Choir. 4-10pm Miss Bliss Saturday Ron Ashton & Dutch Treat. 5-10pm The Great Escape & (SH)Elvis Sunday Dutch Connection & Backwater. Special appearance singer songwriter Conor Smit Weekend raffle; lots of prizes to win. Drawn Sunday @4pm The Rembrandt Dutch Club is solely run by volunteers

New opening hours: Thurs-Sat 9am-3am | Sun-Wed 9am-12am 2 Santley Crescent, Kingswood www.eastsgroup.com.au

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NON-STOP ENTERTAINMENT ALL WEEKEND

MORE INFO

9623 2569 REMBRANDT DUTCH CLUB

Only during the Festival days a free shuttle from St Marys train station to the Rembrandt Club and back. Call from St Marys Station on the day Sjoerd 0401 680 638 or Johan 0416 235 331

the western weekender Â» Friday, March 29, 2019

NEVER ENDING

80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S v 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

SAT 6 APR SUN 7 APR

SAT 6 APR 1HYHU (QGLQJ V 9 V 7KH %DWWOH 2I 7KH 'HFDGHV

The Sydney Brick Show is back at Panthers Penrith in 2019

Which side will you be on?

The Sydney Brick Show is a volunteer not-for-profit group of LEGOÂ® enthusiasts who present unique, original, stunning creations for exhibition to the public. Over 100 exhibits on display - LEGOÂ® City Star Wars, Trains, Super heroes, LEGOÂ® Movie, Castle, Technic Friends and many many more! Enjoy fun activities, building areas, character appearances, LEGOÂ® themed shops and more WKDW ZLOO LPSUHVV DQG LQVSLUH NLGV RI DOO DJHV

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

Crossword ACROSS 1. Frail 4. Writing-fluid pot 8. Lord Spencer’s title 11. Lived dangerously, ... with death 13. Throat projection, ... apple (4’1) 15. Pain 17. Belonging to us 18. Hired (staff) (3,2) 20. And not 21. Queenly 24. Flooded (of decks) 27. ... & outs 28. Intact 30. Lookalike 31. Bishop’s hat 33. Doormen 34. Angry outburst 35. Astronaut, ... Armstrong 36. Valley 39. Humanitarian, Mother ... 42. Hitch (ride) 44. Vicious dogs 45. Rush 46. Harvard’s rival 48. Conscious 49. Hoard 50. At your ... & call 52. Invitation holder 54. Pawn (item) 55. Connection (3-2) 56. Landlord’s customer 57. Beggars ... be choosers (3’1) 60. Petroleum cartel 62. Reviews (accounts) 65. Import levies 67. Speciality 69. Church senior 70. Occasion 72. Drone 73. Share transaction 75. Solid ground, ... firma 77. Monarch’s sphere 79. Privileged few 81. Wedding promise (1,2) 82. Exclude 84. Pulse 85. Linger (on) 86. Medicine amount 87. Holds fast (to) 88. Brave deed

DOWN 1. Disengage gradually 2. Decorate 3. Family 4. Offhandedly 5. Hillocks 6. Wayward 7. Tibetan monk 8. Second largest bird 9. Moving about 10. Camera’s optical part 12. Surname of Billy Ray & Miley 14. Rosebush pest 16. Scratch 19. Ryan or Tatum (1’4) 22. Alternatives 23. Over 25. Mass 26. Falsely charming 29. Society 32. Actor, ... Danson 35. Wandering (tribesman) 37. Know-all, smart ... 38. Localised (outbreak) 40. Upright 41. Cause trouble (3,2) 42. Browned bread 43. Breakfast rasher 44. Mountain hut 47. Milk sugar 51. More compassionate 52. Cleaned (fish) 53. Academic job permanency 54. Filmier 58. Bad 59. Sticky coal byproduct 61. Spare 63. Absolute (nonsense) 64. Snow vehicle 65. Traffic diversion 66. Escape 68. Neglects 71. Honourable 72. Detained 74. Swedish pop group 76. Batons 78. Spoilt child 80. Definite article 83. Pixie

Last week’s solution

Sudoku brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

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

Last week’s Sudoku solution

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

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

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

THEME: LIBRARIES ACCESS ACQUISITIONS ARCHITECTURE BODLEIAN CARDS CIRCULATION CLASSIFICATION INDEX INFORMATION INSTITUTION INTERNET LENDING LIBRARIANS MAPS MOBILE PERIODICALS READING ROOM REFERENCE RESOURCES SCHOLARS STACKS TECHNICAL THEOLOGICAL Last week’s Word Search solution

Test your knowledge about Penrith restaurants in this week’s special trivia quiz!

ON THE

RECORD

1. What is the name of the modern Asian restaurant that recently opened near Tench Reserve? 2. Where could you purchase an Alice Springs Chicken? 3. What is the name of the buffet

restaurant inside Penrith RSL Club? 4. Which restaurant on wheels will sell you a Tiger Pie? 5. Which Italian restaurant occupies a space once filled by The Wine Barrel?

ANSWERS 1. Goji 2. Outback Steakhouse 3. Star Buﬀer 4. Harry’s Cafe De Wheels 5. Trevi

Trivia Quiz

A unique podcast series telling the stories of Penrith’s remarkable people. westernweekender.com.au/podcasts or search Western Weekender on iTunes. WW33993

Kidman stars but movie falls short THE DESTROYER  2 hours, 1 min EMILY FESZCZUK

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Nicole Kidman, take a bow. ‘The Destroyer’ follows the story of LAPD detective Erin Bell (played superbly by Kidman), who is forced to face her demons years after going undercover in the Californian desert. As a young cop she tried to infiltrate a criminal gang with tragic results but when the gang leader reemerges, she has a second chance. Kidman truly transforms herself into a character we have never seen before alongside Sebastian Stan as her partner. She is angry and worn down with the guilt that consumes her, which she portrays so well. Toby Kebbell, Tatiana Maslany and Bradley Whitford all give raw and

talented performances under director Karyn Kusama. While the film is intriguing, the fact that it jumps constantly from past to present can be confusing and makes the flick stutter somewhat. There does need to be layers of explanation to fully grasp the concept, but some scenes just seemed redundant or too drawn out to really have an effect. You do feel remorse for Kidman’s character but as the plot continues and you finally start to have a realisation of the bigger picture, it’s almost too late to connect with it. The message is about righting wrongs and the clarity that comes with it, but this movie could have done with a little bit more clarity in production.

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

At the movies...

life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

LEO

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

TAURUS

With the New Moon in fellow fire sign Aries, you’re feeling feisty and ready for adventure! But hubris and overconfidence often come before a fall. So the buzz word this week is humility. If you’re a clever Cat you’ll be kinder towards others, and more tolerant of their individual idiosyncrasies. As Maya Angelou said: “The best part of life is thriving with passion and compassion, humour and style, generosity and kindness”.

VIRGO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Are you holding onto outdated ideas? Are you sticking to obsolete ways of thinking, as if you’re on auto-pilot? This week the New Moon and Uranus encourage you to let go of an old grudge, put aside pre-conceived notions or examine your beliefs in a philosophical and spiritual new light. As Maya Angelou said: “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude”.

You’ve got a tremendous amount on your plate at the moment, but avoid getting into super-stressed mode Virgo! Mercury (your boss planet) has been moving forwards for a few days now, which will help a close relationship or a joint venture that has been somewhat stalled over the last three weeks. You’ll find kindness, creativity, focus and a practical plan will take you far this week.

Daily posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2019

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Saturn is sauntering slowly through your sign, which isn’t easy. You’ll find hurdles are placed in your path, which will help you grow and mature – like a fine red wine. As Bette Davis said: “The key to life is accepting challenges”. But you must make sure you also learn from them. Friday’s New Moon encourages you to celebrate your strengths and work on your weaknesses, with plenty of passion.

LIBRA

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Thank goodness Mercury has been moving forwards since last Friday. So communication, conversation, business, education and travel should all gradually improve as the week progresses. But the New Moon and Mars could still throw some chaos into the mix, especially involving a personal project or a work matter. So think before you speak and if you find yourself compelled to spread secrets, bite your tongue and say nothing!

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

CAPRICORN

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

GEMINI

Joanne Madeline Moore

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Sagittarians have big ideas but you can have trouble walking your talk. This week Saturn steadies your mercurial mind and helps you get things done. So it’s a wonderful week to power through all those mundane tasks you’ve been putting off for a very long time. Like finalising paperwork, paying bills, making appointments and tackling overdue household chores. Remember your motto: “The early bird catches the worm”.

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Is a close relationship stuck in a rut? This week the New Moon and Uranus encourage you to blast away the cobwebs and look at things from a fresh angle. Attached Librans – are you doing all the giving, while your partner is doing all the taking? Singles – you could fall for someone who’s not your usual type. But how well do you really know your nearest and dearest? It’s time to dig deeper and gain valuable insights into them.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Are you ready for a grand adventure? This week’s New Moon sees curious Aquarians ricocheting off in diverse new directions. Which is exactly how it should be, as you explore and experiment to the max. And don’t worry about making messy (or embarrassing) mistakes along the way. Keep stretching your wings and trying new things. As Jack Lemmon said: “Failure won’t hurt you, but fear of failure will cripple you”.

SCORPIO

This week’s New Moon charges up your career/reputation zone so prepare for a few surprises. But the more you try to control those around you, the more they will tend to push back. So take a good long look at your motives. Perhaps you need to be less possessive? Perhaps you could give someone more freedom, so they can fight their own battles and make their own mistakes?

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week it’s a fabulous time to review your emotional wellbeing and physical fitness levels, introduce healthier food choices, and reboot your exercise routine. Don’t have one? It’s the best week of the year to start! The planets also solidify a relationship with a child, teenager or friend, as you finally get talking about a serious subject. Some singles will experience a strong attraction to someone.

Bad Luck Witchcraft Financial Matters Family Problems Spousal Conflicts Black Magic

Health Children Love / Marriage Hard Times Business Education

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The New Moon lights up your cash zone, which signals a fresh financial chapter. So the more proactive and informed you are about money matters, the better your fiscal future will be. Mercury and Saturn also send an important message your way on the weekend. When it comes to your social circle and peer group, don’t waste precious time on negative friends who criticise your dreams.

Suffering Embarrassment Sexual Problems Tears Evil Spirits Jealousy

Curses Depression Jadoo Jobs Court Cases Divorce etc.

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your horoscopes

This week restless Rams are ready to fire off in exciting new directions! Mercury is well and truly moving forwards and Friday’s New Moon is in your sign. So it’s action stations for adventurous Aries. It’s certainly the best week of the year to hatch ambitious ideas, make plans and take steps to initiate bold new projects. But don’t get carried away; over-promise; and then fail to follow through on your fabulous intentions.

SAGITTARIUS

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

your

Julie Fletcher

Matthew Barton

Nepean Swim and Fitness julie@nepeanswim.com.au

It’s been a swim season of sadness... As we approach the end of March, I write my last column for autumn with a heavy heart, following one of the worst summers on record. We are a few months away from the next Royal Life Saving National Drowning report being released, but by the end of February 105 deaths had been recorded in media- related data alone and the final number is still pending Coronial confirmations of drowning deaths. Amy Peden, Royal Life Saving Australia’s national manager of research and policy, said that this year’s figures could jump even higher and make the 2018-19 summer the deadliest on record. All of these deaths were preventable, so we must focus as a community on education around water safety and swimming skills. Please enrol your children in swimming lessons from six months of age, and continue lessons until the child is competent in the water. The risks associated with drowning do not go away during the cooler months, so swimming lessons must be an all year round activity. By swimming throughout the cooler months children remain

WW37045

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

your swim safety

confident in the water, and avoid regression of swimming skills. Always actively supervise children in any aquatic environment, no exceptions, no lapses. Fence the pool, regularly check fences and keep all barriers well maintained. Shut the pool gate, and never prop it open for any reason. Make it a priority to learn rescue techniques and CPR. Take advantage of the monthly CPR courses run for adults at Nepean Aquatic Centre, and of the free water safety visits we conduct in daycare centres, preschools, and primary schools. Remove water hazards and temptations at home. Please supervise children in the bath and do not answer the phone or door and leave them in the water alone. Be aware of other items which present a significant drowning threat to young children in and around the home, such as buckets, eskies, fountains, fishponds, inflatable pools and even pet bowls. It is crucial that these are emptied, covered, put away and not left where they can fill up with water, especially in the recent heavy rain we have been experiencing. Never swim alone, and never consume alcohol when swimming, fishing, boating or supervising children in the water. Until next summer, stay safer and just keep swimming, all year round.

things to do these

Physiotherapist at OnePointHealth 4732 5188 | onepointhealth.com.au

Falls are a concerning problem in the local community, particularly for older residents.... Did you know one third of people that are aged 65 years and over will have at least one fall or more annually? Falls are a huge burden on the health care system and physiotherapists play a crucial role in preventing falls in the elderly. Common causes of falls: • Trip (40 per cent) • Balance (21 per cent) • Slip (13.2 per cent) • Dizzy (five per cent) • Weak legs (Six per cent) • Unknown (14 per cent) Falls in the elderly are a common problem and a serious health concern. It can lead to devastating consequences like a reduction in the level of activity, community participation, injuries and a loss of confidence. Daily life requires people to partake in a range of activities in an array of different environmental settings. A fall will generally occur due to a mismatch between a person’s physiology, their behaviour and the environmental requirements of the given task.

Individual falls are multifaceted and complex in nature. As physiotherapists, we cannot stop the ageing process but through specific interventions and assessment, we are able to predict when someone is at higher risk and therefore incorporate strategies to decrease the risk of a fall. There is now in the research strong evidence to support the use of exercise interventions in the management of falls in the elderly. Interventions that focus on balance, strength, reaction time, vision and the cardiovascular system all have shown to lead to fewer falls. Your physiotherapist can identify contributing factors and tailor an individualised exercise program in order to limit the chances of a fall occurring. If you have a history of falls or feel as if you’re at an increased risk, see one of our health professionals at OPH.

SKILLS 4 LIFE

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NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE

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MONDAY 15TH TO THURSDAY 18TH APRIL NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE, 16 – 19 LAMBRIDGE PLACE, PENRITH 4730 8900 NEPEANAQUATICCENTRE.COM.AU

The ins and outs of a key part of your insurance policy

money

Underwriting is a difficult, but important part of the insurance process. Here’s what you need to know...

Alex McKenzie Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

When we advise clients to obtain life or income protection insurance, by far the most inconvenient part of the process is the underwriting. Underwriting is essentially the process of the insurance company vetting the life insured to determine their risk and make a decision on whether they will insure the client. The process involves answering a number of medical, occupational and sometimes financial questions. If in answering these questions the insurance company identifies issues that could be potential problems, then they may ask for information from your doctor or ask you to undergo medical examinations (usually blood tests). This is undoubtedly an inconvenience and quite frankly at times downright frustrating. But it’s worth it. The testing is to protect the insurance company; however the tests are also there to provide the insured with a great deal of comfort. Once you are underwritten, you know that if you meet the conditions for a payment you will be paid. Once the insurance company has assessed your situation and decided to insure you, they

cannot go back and look for reasons not to pay. The only exception is fraudulent nondisclosure and unintentional nondisclosure that is material to the claim and inside the first three years. There are some direct insurers that advertise cover without underwriting. Avoiding underwriting sounds appealing, and let’s face it, no one wants to answer a stack of medical questions and go through blood tests. There are two main reasons that this is not desirable. Firstly it is generally more expensive. If the insurance company is going to insure everyone, they are going to insure people who are of a higher risk that would be excluded in underwriting. More high risk clients results in more

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

your

claims, more claims results in higher costs to the insurer and higher premiums to the client. The other issue is potentially far worse; this is the opportunity to underwrite at time of claim. At this point they are incentivised to find a reason not to insure you as they know they are about to make a claim. Conversely, when you are underwritten up front, the insurance company is looking for your business and will underwrite accordingly. If you have a policy that allows the insurance company to underwrite at time of claim, you run the risk of not being paid despite meeting the conditions for a benefit. See you next week.

MOWBRAY PARK FARM

PENRITH PACEWAY

POLLY’S BEADS

COME SAY G’DAY TO CHLOE, CHESTER, SCOOTER & FRIENDS! THE DAYS ARE FULL OF FUN AT MOWBRAY PARK FARM: PONIES, CAMP FIRES, HAY RIDES & MORE! DAY VISITS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES & WEEKEND ESCAPES!

EASTER HARNESS RACING NIGHT, 18TH APRIL 2019, 6PM

KEEPING THE CRAFTY KIDS BUSY DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS IS A PENRITH ICON, POLLYS BEADS.

IT’S CRAFT TIME!

GLENMORE PARK TOWN CENTRE FUN WITH BOUNCY BALLS CREATE YOUR VERY OWN BOUNCY BALL OF FUN AT OUR WORKSHOP! MON 15TH & TUES 16TH APRIL 10AM – 1PM LOCATED NEAR WOOLWORTHS HOP INTO EASTER JOIN US TO CREATE A VARIETY OF EASTER THEMED CRAFTS! WED 17TH & THURS 18TH APRIL 10AM – 1PM LOCATED NEAR COLES

MOWBRAY PARK FARM, 745 BARKERS LODGE RD, PICTON WWW.FARMSTAYHOLIDAYS.COM.AU MOWBRAY@FARMSTAYHOLIDAYS.COM.AU CALL US 4680 9243 FOR THAT SPECIAL SHORT BREAK

SCHWEPPES RENSHAW CUP EASTER BUNNY ARRIVING AFTER RACE 5 RACEBOOK PROMO, STALLS, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, JUMPING CASTLE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

AMONG THE COLLECTION OF BEADED WONDERS AVAILABLE: 2 FRIENDSHIP BRACELET KITS $8.00. EACH KIT MAKES 2 BRACELETS. MORE KITS AVAILABLE SHOP 9 TATTERSALLS CENTRE ARCADE 518 HIGH STREET, PENRITH PHONE 4731 5256

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

your retirement

your

Margaret Sullivan

David Norris

Thornton Park

Making sure your new retirement home is pet friendly is very important... Pets are great at any and every stage of life and are some of the best companions an older person can have. Life can be lonely for many older people, especially after the loss of a spouse or friends. So, a pet is a great thing to talk to throughout the day. Pets love being talked to and typically respond with lots of love and affection. Caring for a pet often causes older people to take better care of themselves, not to mention pets need their owners and feeling needed by something is a great feeling, especially as we get older. Many pets require exercise, which is why they’re a great fit for older people who are able to care for them. Whether you’re taking your pet for a walk or running after them in the house, getting up and moving around is always a great health benefit. Pets, especially dogs, are naturally social beings. You may end up participating in pet- related activities, such as obedience classes, or taking them to the dog park, which allows both you and the pet to meet new people.

Studies indicate that pets are powerful forms of stress relief, lowering blood pressure and stress hormones, which is associated with depression and anxiety. Pets will elevate beneficial hormones like oxytocin, which is linked to happiness and relaxation. If you’re looking into retirement living and having a pet is important to you, then make sure you ask if they’re pet friendly.

You’re passionate about your business or hobby, and you have a niche or specialist knowledge in a particular industry or area. This is the perfect foundation for creating a blog. A blog (shortening of weblog) is an online journal where a writer or group shares their knowledge or views on a particular topic. For a blog to be successful, you need to present well written high- quality content. You need to be able to deliver engaging information including videos, tutorials, industry or topic outlooks and opinions. These all have to be around your core niche or focus. Once you have decided what your blog will be about, you need to decide on what platform you will use to write your blog. There are many suitable solutions including: Wordpress.org The most popular blogging and website platform on the Internet. You can customise your blog with a selection of thousands of themes. Wordpress.org is extremely flexible. You need to organise a hosting platform (we use Siteground) and install Wordpress. There is a learning curve.

Rev John Lavender

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Wordpress.com A done for you free WordPress site. Limited options and difficult to monetise and they use their own advertising. Most people using Wordpress would choose the option above. Blogger Google’s blogging tool. It is free and easy to use. If you want to get up and going quickly, this is a good solution. Functionality wise it falls behind Wordpress. As your blog grows and you want additional control or features you will need to move it. Wix An easy to set up drag and drop website building tool. By adding Wix Blog, it can be converted to an easy to use blogging tool. Like Blogger if your blog grows, Wix is limited in the features you can add on and the changes you can make. Pricing starts at $9 a month. Joomla Like Wordpress.org is also a self-hosted solution. You will need to organise your own hosting. Joomla is a powerful and flexible solution. Wordpress is arguably easier to use and is more popular and better supported. Most webpage development platforms will support blogging. Some others include Medium, Squarespace, Ghost and Weebly. More on blogs next week!

religion www.gpa.church

Showing favouritism or bias is entrenched in our society, but it is a sad and dangerous way to think and behave...

Social media management without the stress

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

Managing Director Nortec IT (02) 9894 9514

Thinking of starting a blog?

your

tech

It is a horrible thing to be on the receiving end of bias or favouritism; to be on the receiving end of prejudice or discrimination. Sadly, bias, favouritism, prejudice, and discrimination are a characteristic of so much of human nature that we experience even from childhood. So often we have learnt to exclude and leave out, to discriminate, and to show prejudice, for a whole range of tragic and wrong reasons. Because they don’t look like us. Because we think they are not as “cool” as us. Because they don’t live in the same suburb. Because they were born in a different country. Because they are older or younger, fatter or thinner, taller or shorter, male or female. Because they dress differently, talk differently. Because they have more money. Because they have less money. Because they are popular. Because they are not popular. Bias, favouritism, prejudice and discrimination are a disease infecting our whole world and it is a disease caus-

ing enormous grief, sadness and pain. In the Bible’s New Testament book of Acts, we find the apostle Peter having to learn that bias, favouritism, prejudice and discrimination are something that God does not approve of. After Peter receives a remarkable vision from God, we hear Peter explaining to the crowd this important truth which has been revealed to him by God. “I now realise how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts people from every nation who fear him and do what is right.” As Peter concludes his message, he finishes with this wonderful statement; “Everyone who believes in Jesus receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” It is simple – God does not show bias or prejudice, so why should we? See you next week.

pets

How to handle a dementia diagnosis in our furry friends As dogs age, they become more likely to be affected by diseases such as dementia...

Nicole McMillan Practice Manager of Greencross Coreen Avenue

After bringing us many years of love and joy, our dogs inevitably start to slow down and show their age. Dementia, also termed Brain Ageing or Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), is sadly a fact of life for many ageing dogs. CCD is a degenerative neurological condition in dogs that is similar to dementia in humans. It results in a gradual and progressive loss of brain function. Unfortunately this disease is very common and at least 25 per cent of dogs older than 10 years of age show one of the signs associated with brain ageing. By 15 years of age, more than 60 per cent of dogs are affected by CCD. Thankfully, there are treatment options that can help dogs with dementia. Behavioural changes are normally the first indication of brain ageing in dogs. Behavioural changes can also be due to behavioural problems or medical problems such as heart disease, pain and arthritis, incontinence, sensory problems (blindness or deafness), endocrine disease (eg diabetes), brain disease (eg cancer) or metabolic disease (eg renal failure).

There are also some medications such as steroids and medicine for incontinence than can cause worsening of signs associated with CCD. It is essential that animals are examined by a veterinarian to rule out medical problems before a diagnosis of dementia is made. So what are the signs of CCD? As brain function declines, you may find that your animal becomes disorientated or confused, house training and other learned behaviours may be lost – for example, you may find your dog forgets where the food/water bowls are or starts to soil in the house. Interactions with family members and sleep patterns may change so you may find that your dog wakes up and paces through the night. Some animals may become anxious, agitated or irritable and some dogs will even develop aggression. What can we do about CCD? It is important that we rule out concurrent medical problems that can be contributing to your pet’s behaviour changes. This will involve a thorough examination to determine any sources of pain, checking the eyes and ears to make sure there are no sensory problems. Blood testing and imaging may also be required to check for underlying diseases. Adjusting the environment is also important in making older animals comfortable; you may need to leave a dim light on for toilet trips, section off unsafe

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

your

areas of the house or leave soft music on when you are out. There are several medical options that are available to help dogs with poor brain function. Some of these medications work by increasing dopamine in the brain which helps save dying brain cells. Other medications will aim to increase blood flow to the brain which will help your dog become more alert and slow down the progression of CCD. There are also medications to help your pet have a restful night’s sleep if they often wake through the night and vocalise/pace. A high quality and balanced diet is also essential for elderly animals with poor brain function. There are commercial diets available that specifically target brain disease – an example of this is the Hill’s B/D Diet.

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

your

travel

Royal experience in Troy Dodds jumps on board the Explorer of the Seas for a sensational cruising experience...

C I F I C A O UTH P

Troy Dodds

As a first time cruiser, I have to admit I didn’t quite know what to expect when boarding Royal Caribbean’s enormous Explorer of the Seas for a 10- day South Pacific adventure. Every cruise is made up of first-timers like myself, those who’ve hit the seas a few times and of course cruise veterans who know everything from how to score the best deck chair to where the sea sick tablets are (which, I have to admit, I needed to know myself on the third day of our cruise). No matter what your cruising experience, eventually everyone is on the same level – and what an adventure it is. The ship itself Recently renovated, Explorer of the Seas is quite a sight – and it’s often easy to forget you’re on a cruise ship, especially when you’re walking along the stunning main promenade. Despite the huge number of people on board, nothing ever felt over- crowded, even the main deck area which is obviously where people tend to gravitate as the day unfolds. The adults-only pool area offers a good escape from the excitement and activity

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of the main deck, and was never too busy especially if you scored yourself a deck chair early in the day. Our stateroom – a spacious room with a balcony – was just as good as any hotel room you’d find on a trip. Many say that the room matters little as you’re rarely in it, but it’s always nice to have a comfortable ‘home base’. Activities Here’s the great thing about cruising: you can do as little or as much as you like. There are some days where a few cocktails on a deck chair on the main deck, or a lazy visit to the spa – which I might add had probably the best hot stone massage you could ever imagine – will do just fine to fill in the hours. But if you’re feeling active, the list of things to do is literally endless – from simple quizzes and trivia games, through to bellyflop competitions, zumba, karaoke and film screenings. Regardless of your age, you’ll find something to do (and conveniently, the daily ‘Cruise Compass’ delivered to your room will ensure you don’t miss a thing). For something a little unique, try a game of mini- golf or the rock climbing wall (pictured right) – a special experience especially given the surroundings! There’s plenty of entertainment options in the main theatre as well, and don’t miss the ice show – quite special given the challenges of ice skating at sea. Word is Explorer of the Seas is the only cruise ship with a full ice skating rink on board, so this is definitely one of the ship’s more unique and special experiences. Food and Drink Explorer of the Seas offers a range of dining options. Included in your cruise

package is the Sapphire Dining Room, which offers a stress-free sit-down dining experience, and the Windjammer, probably the biggest and best buffet you’ll ever experience. The theme changes daily, so you’ll never really get sick of what’s on offer. We found ourselves at the Windjammer pretty much daily. While the Sapphire Dining Room should be tried at least a couple of times to ensure you get that traditional main dining room experience, the buffet without question offered better quality and options. Explorer of the Seas also has specialty dining options, which are very reasonably priced and can offer a good break from the main dining offerings. The Japanese restaurant, Izumi, was the pick of the bunch – fresh, delicious and beautifully prepared. Chops Grille, a steak restaurant, offered an elegant and tasty meal, while Johnny Rockets is a great lunch option, especially when you consider it’s $9.95 per person and you can have whatever you want from the menu and as much of it as you want, too. As for drinks, options are endless but your big decision will be whether or not you purchase an unlimited drinks package (which means you can drink beer, wine, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks until your heart’s content). It’s a little pricey, and keep in mind that every adult in your stateroom has to purchase the package. If you think you’ll have more than four or five drinks a day, it’s definitely worth it – and you won’t need to feel any guilt when heading back to the bar for a Pina Colada! Shore Excursions Royal Caribbean’s 10- day South Pacific

cruise took in Noumea, Lifou (Loyalty Islands), Vanuatu and Isle of Pines, the latter of which being a real highlight (perhaps the most amazing water you’ll ever swim in). Keep in mind that you don’t need to book a shore excursion to experience each destination, you can simply walk around the beaches or head into town yourself, but the excursions are a great way to learn a little more about the location in question. While in Lifou we undertook the ‘Forest and Secret Grotto’ excursion, which was a real highlight of the trip – experiencing a tiny village, learning about local customs and wildlife, and meeting a few extraordinary characters along the way. A couple of tips: Bring your own snorkelling gear and swim shoes.

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

the stunning South Pacfic

The final word It’s not hard to see why people return to cruising holidays time and time again. It’s essentially two holidays in one – the ship itself is akin to residing in a resort for a week or so, while the destinations are equally amazing. Once on board, choosing not to spend anything more doesn’t mean you miss out on all that much, though it’s probably advisable to board with at least a small budget in mind. Without question, Royal Caribbean offers a world class experience – and those South Pacific islands ain’t bad either. For details on upcoming cruises on Explorer of the Seas, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au. Troy Dodds travelled as a guest of Royal Caribbean.

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WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters submitted for publication are done so on the condition that The Western Weekender may edit them, without affecting the overall message or intent of the letter. The Western Weekender reserves the right to publish letters in other publications.

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Weekende

Huge win to start Giants’ season p.76

the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

Sport

AFL

US-bound Tylah Saifoloi at Wallacia Golf Club this week. Photo: Melinda Jane

America calls for Tylah NATHAN TAYLOR

alented local golfer Tylah Saifoloi is about to embark on the journey of a lifetime after winning a scholarship to attend college in the United States. The 18- year- old Penrith resident will fly to the US in August to study Health and Human Performance and play golf at Bellevue University in Nebraska. After taking up golf as a young teen, Saifoloi enjoyed a standout junior career winning numerous competitions and performing strongly in countless others. After competing at a Jack Newton

There, Saifoloi will be required to train nearly every day with the women’s golf team as well as compete in various tournaments around Nebraska and across the country. While anxious about moving abroad on her own, Saifoloi is looking forward to the unique life experience. “Moving over there, getting to travel, meeting new people… it will be second to none,” she said. “It will give me such a big opportunity to grow as a person, golfer and student.” Also highly accomplished at both tennis and swimming, Saifoloi picked up her first golf club at the age of 10 before taking it more seriously at 13.

Junior Golf Tournament as a 15-year-old, the former Nepean CAPA High School student caught the eye of a major sporting recruitment agency, who signed her up and helped her with her college application. “They sent my application to every college in the US that had a women’s golf program. From there I was contacted by multiple schools and offered scholarships,” Saifoloi explained. “My favourite – the one who offered me the best opportunity to succeed – was Bellevue University.” In August, the aspiring physiotherapist will pack up her life in Penrith and move to America’s Midwest.

The Wallacia junior said she preferred golf for a variety of reasons. “The thing that really made me pick golf was the love I had for it,” Saifoloi admitted. “It’s so different to swimming and tennis, both of those sports are so quick and full on and everyone was super competitive. “With golf I can take my time and enjoy myself. It’s helped me socially too, I’ve gained a lot of social skills I didn’t have before. It was an environment that suited me so much better.” Bellevue University head women’s golf coach, Shelly Liddick, said she’s looking forward to having Saifoloi on the team.

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Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

AUSSIE RULES

AVIATION

Giants lead competition after brilliant start to new season

Young aviation enthusiasts urged to attend local open day

Local kids are encouraged to join the Australian Air League NATHAN TAYLOR

GWS run through the banner before their Round 1 match against Essendon at Giants Stadium. Photo: Ryan Miller, GWS Giants NATHAN TAYLOR

WS have sent out a warning to the rest of the AFL following a 72-point beatdown of Essendon last Sunday at Giants Stadium. While some sides didn’t get off to the best of starts in the opening round, the Giants were simply superb defeating the Bombers 112-40. While pleased with his team’s monster Round 1 win, Giants coach Leon

Cameron said the AFL’s a marathon not a sprint. “I’ve been in this game long enough to know that we’ve just taken off on the marathon. If it’s a 22km marathon, we’ve just done 1km and we’ve got 21km to go,” he said. “I couldn’t be prouder of our boys because they played a brand of footy that our supporters would be proud of.” Leading the competition after one round, the Giants will travel to Perth this Saturday to face the West Coast Eagles.

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he Penrith Boys and Girls Squadrons of the Australian Air League are on the hunt for more local kids to join their fun and exciting organisation. The Australian Air League is holding an Open Night in Emu Plains next month and is inviting young people to come down with their parents to see what they have to offer. The Australian Air League is a nationwide organisation for youngsters aged between eight and 18. Staffed by volunteers and self- funding, it teaches leadership skills and provides a wide range of interesting and exciting activities such as camping

and hiking, sport and physical recreation, building and flying model aircraft, and ceremonial drill. Through classes and practical demonstration, members learn the theory of aviation and a wide range of associated topics such a meteorology, navigation, aero engines and aircraft construction. The Australian Air League also provides a range of flying experiences for its members, from simple scenic joy flights through to gliding and powered- flying training. The Open Night will be on Thursday, April 4 at 7.30pm. It will be held at Melrose Hall, 169 Great Western Highway, Emu Plains. For more information, call 1800 502 175.

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the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

FUTSAL

Green and gold honours: The 12th birthday present Lincoln will never forget NATHAN TAYLOR

hen Lincoln McConnell turned 12 in January, he received the ultimate birthday present. No, it wasn’t the latest iPad or cool gaming console, it was the news he’d been selected in the Australian U12 Boys futsal team. Playing in the pool, celebrating his special day with friends and family, his mum received an email saying her son had made the team. “It was a real surprise when my mum yelled out the news,” Lincoln told the Weekender. “I felt good, excited… I didn’t expect to make the team because it was my first year competing at the National Club Futsal Championships. “To be honest, I can’t even remember what else I got for my birthday.” The talented South Penrith resident will travel to Malaysia this November, representing Australia and competing against top level futsal teams from all over Asia and the world. While Lincoln has gone on plenty of family holidays around the world, he’s never stepped foot in Malaysia.

“I’m looking forward to visiting there and versing good teams and players from around the world,” he said. “One of my friends also made the team, so it will be fun going with him.” The Year 7 St Dominic’s student is soccer obsessed and trains and plays the game 12 hours a week. While he’s only fairly new to the indoor version of the game, he’s been playing outdoor soccer since he was six-years-old. After beginning his soccer journey with the Jamisontown Giants, Lincoln now plays with one of the biggest clubs in western Sydney, the Blacktown Spartans. “I don’t know why I love soccer so much, I just do. I don’t watch much of it on TV, I prefer playing it,” Lincoln, who supports Manchester United, said. “It doesn’t impact on my studies too much because I always put school first. I do my homework as soon as I get home or get up early in the morning if I have to finish it off. “My family has a rule that schoolwork comes first before sport.” While it’ll be hard to top Lincoln’s 12th birthday in years to come, it’ll certainly be one he’ll never forget.

Lincoln McConnell at his South Penrith home this week. Photo: Melinda Jane

WestCare Community Services 10th Annual ‘Steps of Hope’ Community Walk

SATURDAY 6TH APRIL 2019 Walking to help families harmed by domestic violence Walk/Run/Scooter/Stroll around the newly opened Nepean River walk Start and ﬁnish anytime between 7am–12:30pm Supporting WestCare’s ‘Fresh Start Go!’ Penrith DV Support Project ALL AGES – REGISTRATION $30 ADULTS, $15 FOR 15 AND UNDER. Registration includes a T-shirt, sausage sandwich and a bottle of Steps of Hope premium spring water. REGISTER AT STEPSOFHOPE.ORG.AU OR CALL WESTCARE ON 4731 3455

WW37083

Friday, March 29, 2019 « the western weekender

PADDLING

Penrith chases historic victory Story continued from » p. 80 In a dramatic twist, UTS North Sydney wanted the result overturned, claiming Penrith breached playing conditions and did not present the ground in the best possible condition. However, just before Tuesday night’s hearing at Cricket NSW headquarters, UTS North Sydney withdrew their appeal. “Our friends at North Sydney were a little upset that a lot of water pooled out in the middle following the storm we had on Friday night. There was so much water and nowhere for it to go so it pooled and they were extremely agitated by that,” Penrith head coach, Michael Wholohan said. Fortunately, the mid- week drama didn’t affect Penrith whatsoever and they appeared to be in high spirits at training on Tuesday afternoon. “It’s business as usual here, the players were amused by it all,” Wholohan said. “They are quite a remarkable group, they’ve just been relaxed and enjoyed each other’s company all year. They thoroughly deserve to be where they are.” It’s been a long time between titles for Penrith, who haven’t made a Belvidere Cup Final since the 2002/03 season and haven’t tasted premiership success since 1983.

Big honour for Jess Back to back: Fox named Sportswoman of the Year again NATHAN TAYLOR

ife couldn’t get any better for Leonay’s Jessica Fox after she took home the 2018 World Paddle Awards Sportswoman of the Year gong on Monday night. It is the second consecutive year Fox has received the prestigious award, which recognises the year’s most outstanding female athlete or female team in any paddlesport. After winning the award in back to back years, Fox is now the most awarded athlete at the World Paddle Awards. In 2014, the Academy also selected her for the Academy Award. The 2018 World Paddle Awards, which were held in Europe, celebrate the best and most remarkable performances in paddlesport over the past year, with the Sportswoman of the Year award further cementing the 24- year- old in sporting history and recognising her historic 2018 season success. “It is such an honour to win this award for the second time in a row,” Fox said. “The finalists are all incredible athletes

The accolades keep coming for Jessica Fox across all disciplines of canoeing who have had phenomenal seasons and contributed so much to the sport, so to be recognised in this way is huge and I am grateful for the votes and support of the WPA, broader canoeing community and all the fans.”

2018 was a season of historic and awe-inspiring achievements for Fox and one that puts her in great stead as she prepares to go for her first Olympic gold at Tokyo 2020. And with the C1 new on the program in Japan, there will even be the chance for double gold.

Around the grounds BASKETBALL: Penrith have suffered their first loss of the season, narrowly defeated by the Bankstown Bruins 74-73 in Round 3 of Waratah Championship League (WCL) Men’s competition. Penrith captain Ben Kearins shot a team-high 19 points in the close loss. Meanwhile, Penrith’s WCL Women’s team are still trying to find their feet, beaten by the Bruins 62-47. Emily Potts was Penrith’s best scoring 10 points and seven rebounds. Both teams will return to the court his weekend, playing in the first double header of the season. Penrith’s men and women’s sides will take on the Hills Hornets on Saturday before backing up against the Sydney Comets on Sunday.

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RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 7 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season got underway last weekend with excellent results for Penrith’s SG Ball and Harold Matthews teams. In the SG Ball competition, Penrith were too good for the Balmain Tigers 30-14, while in the Harold Matthews competition, Penrith smashed the Tigers 32-14. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Tarsha Gale Cup side went down to the St George Dragons 32-22. This Saturday, Penrith’s SG Ball and Harold Matthews teams will battle the St George Dragons at Windsor Sporting Complex, while Penrith’s Tarsha Gale Cup team will take on the Parramatta Eels.

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RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 2 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions got underway last weekend. In

the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys defeated Mounties 24-18, while Penrith Brothers went down 30-12 to Cabramatta. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys smashed the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks 40-18, while Brothers lost 16-6 to Cabramatta. NETBALL: NSW Swifts midcourter and local junior Paige Hadley has been elevated into the 19-person Australian Diamonds squad ahead of the 2019 World Cup. Hadley was rewarded by selectors for her outstanding performances at the five-day Diamonds training camp which concluded in Canberra last week. Diamonds head coach Lisa Alexander said she’s delighted to welcome Hadley back into the Diamonds program. “Paige was part of the victorious 2015 Netball World Cup Diamonds team and part of our squad from 2013 to 2018, so we’re thrilled to have Paige and her extensive experience back within our program,” she said. GOLF: Penrith Valley Rotary held a charity golf day earlier this month, raising money for two important causes. Held during Mental Health Week, 128 golfers took part in the charity golf day held at Twin Creeks Golf Club. Funds raised were divided up between Australian Rotary Health and Nepean Hospital. A great day was had by all golfers. To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/westernweekender.

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the western weekender » Friday, March 29, 2019

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Sport

Friday, March 29, 2019 NRL Coverage: See ‘Extra Time’ pull-out in our centre pages every week!

History in the making NATHAN TAYLOR

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espite a bizarre protest that was ultimately withdrawn, it’s been business as usual at the Penrith Cricket Club this week as they prepare to win their first Belvidere Cup title since the early 1980s. Beginning today and running through to Sunday at Bankstown Oval, Penrith will take on a dominant Sydney University side who will appear in their third consecutive NSW Premier Cricket first grade decider. While it will be a mighty task to knock off the 2016/17 Premiers, there was a slight chance Penrith could have missed the clash altogether. On Tuesday, last weekend’s opponents UTS North Sydney lodged an appeal after their semi final against Penrith at Howell Oval ended in a draw, propelling the home side to the Final. Penrith finished on 5/163 in reply to 4/253 declared by UTS North Sydney, before rain halted play and the match was declared a draw. Penrith finished second in the regular season, which meant they progressed to the Grand Final. Story continues on » p. 78

Penrith are preparing for this weekend’s Belvidere Cup final. Photo: Melinda Jane

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