Western Weekender June 2

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www.westernweekender.com.au

GIVEAWAY Free sweet treats on National Doughnut Day See page 27

Just before Christmas, Leigh Miller was told to get his affairs in order. Cancer would claim his life within months, doctors said. But the Penrith local is proving something of a miracle man, defying the statistics thanks to a groundbreaking new treatment that has seen his cancer almost disappear in just a few months.

Emily Newton reports on page 8

PENRITH’S TOP COP Courage under fire See page 17

COMEDY GREAT COMES TO TOWN Jimeoin promises plenty of laughs See page 49

GROWING PAINS OzTag’s challenges See page 76-77

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Council

Council to spend $3 million on park Controversial Triangle Park to get a face lift with new trees, shade structures and a water feature ALENA HIGGINS

enrith’s Triangle Park is set to receive a face lift, but not everyone is happy about it.

Earlier this month, Penrith Council chose its preferred tenderer to undertake the $3 million upgrade, which includes paving, tree planting, adding a water feature, deck and shade structures to the park located on the intersection of High and Henry streets.

But Councillor Jim Aitken believes the money could be better spent elsewhere.

“No, I don’t think it’s money well spent,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s publicly used very often... when I drive past there is never anyone there.”

Councillors awarded out-of-towner Community Assets & Infrastructure Pty Ltd the contract, despite a quote from Emu Plains’ J Group Corporation coming in at just $29,000 more.

A Council spokesman said the Chippendale-based contractor, who provided the cheapest price at $2,846,612 (excluding GST), was given the job based on their ability to deliver projects of a similar nature.

“The local tenderer did not have similar

P

experience in delivering a project of this nature, rather Council has engaged them on projects that are better suited to their capabilities,” the spokesman said.

Cr Aitken said this was debatable.

“I really don’t grasp how [J Group Corporation] wouldn’t be suitable to do that work,” he said.

Councillors were supposed to vote on the motion, which recommended Community Assets & Infrastructure Pty Ltd be accepted for the full scope of works, during the May 22 Ordinary Council meeting.

But the item was deferred to the Committee of the Whole and discussed behind closed doors for commercial in confidence reasons after Cr Aitken raised the marginal differences in quotes.

“I just wanted to make sure we give weight to the Penrith people,” he explained on Monday.

Cr Aitken contends the money would be better utilised by funnelling it into Council’s vision for a City Park Precinct.

Community Assets & Infrastructure Pty Ltd is currently working on the Queen Street, St Marys, upgrade project on behalf of Penrith Council.

Do you use the Triangle Park? Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Cr Jim Aitken believes the $3 million being spent to upgrade Penrith’s Triangle Park could be better used elsewhere. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

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troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

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here was a time when we applauded people for standing up for what they believed in, even if we didn’t agree with them.

These days, largely thanks to the Internet and our ability to be loud behind a keyboard, we’ve done a complete about face.

Now we ridicule people and question their right to have an opinion that is slightly out of the politically correct mould.

Let me say first and foremost that I am a big supporter of same-sex marriage and I disagree with tennis champion Margaret Court’s now well-publicised views about marriage equality.

However, I wonder if those preaching tolerance and acceptance have had a good look at themselves in the mirror this past week when it comes to criticism of the former World Number 1.

A 74-year-old lady with long held beliefs decided to stand up for what she truly believes and we as a society have torn her to shreds.

Are we really proud of that?

Margaret Court has been a constant critic of homosexuality and a staunch fighter against marriage equality.

This isn’t something she came up with five minutes ago – in fact, her views on same-sex marriage were well known when Show Court One at Melbourne Park was renamed Margaret Court Arena in 2003.

Now we would apparently consider it a “victory” if her name was removed from the venue.

Margaret Court is out of touch, there’s very little doubt about that, but that doesn’t mean she’s “wrong”.

T

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If anything, it proves the generational elements that exist in the marriage equality debate.

The recent barrage of anger towards Margaret Court came because she wrote a letter to her home-town newspaper angry that QANTAS was an “active promoter” of same-sex marriage and a supporter of marriage equality.

She has every right to boycott QANTAS if she wishes, and in fact she’s probably got a stronger argument to do so, given her beliefs, than the people who will “never fly them again” because their flight was delayed 45 minutes.

She may even save some money – QANTAS can be pretty expensive!

And I dare say, even as a supporter of marriage equality, that she may actually have a point. Is it really up to a corporate organisation to fight a social battle; and essentially speak for its millions of customers and staff?

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Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Journalists: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87; Kate Reid | @kate_reid6 Emily Newton | @emmerleener Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Photographers: 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

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Issue 1305

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And another thing...

Journalists constantly bemoan the current state of the media industry but they only need to look as far as the embarrassing coverage of Schapelle Corby’s return home last weekend to understand where the problem lies.

The mainstream TV networks and newspapers should hold their heads in shame – the coverage of a convicted drug smuggler’s “homecoming” was farcical, and showed a growing gap between journalists and consumers.

Entertainment ................49-60 Your Life.................................61-67 Ask Your Expert............68-69

the western weekender

Phone Matt:

S P A• S E R V I C E S

“Relying on the Bible to form your view on marriage equality is akin to using your Nokia 3210 instruction guide to fix your iPhone”

Personally, I think it’s nice that they do it, but I understand where Margaret Court is coming from.

Mrs Court’s opinion and beliefs come from her reading of the Bible and after 74 years on this planet I highly doubt she’s going to change them any time soon.

Relying on the Bible to form your view on marriage equality is akin to using your Nokia 3210 instruction guide to fix your iPhone, but she’s free to do that if she wishes.

For many of us (I dare say, most of us), marriage equality just makes sense and we shake our collective heads at those who can’t fathom such a shift in society’s thinking.

But you know what? History is littered with social debates that now seem rather silly. Marriage equality will eventually end up in the same boat – it’ll happen, and we’ll all look back in 50 or 60 years and wonder what all the fuss was about.

And who knows, in 50 or 60 years we may be the ones standing up for something we believe in, faced with a barrage of criticism from the younger generations of the day.

Production: Maddy Searle, Ian Beard Administration: Karlee Hansen

Arguments brew over parking crisis ALENA HIGGINS

isgruntled Oxley Park residents are pleading with Penrith City Council to help fix the “tragic” parking situation currently holding them hostage.

Tensions between homeowners and motorists along Adelaide and Brisbane streets are boiling over, according to Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen, with drivers parking across driveways in desperation, sparking the ire of local residents.

Werner Forschinger has lived in Adelaide Street for 47 years and is “fed up” with the continual inconvenience.

“It’s tragic, believe you me,” he said of the dismal state of affairs.

“I get locked in morning and afternoon when parents drop their kids off and the people don’t give a rat’s arse.

“I’m not against parking, but when people park over my driveway I get a little irate.”

Cr Hitchen said she consistently gets complaints about the lack of parking in Oxley Park.

“We have to do something now,” she implored her fellow Councillors during Council’s last Ordinary Meeting.

“There is fighting in the street about parking.”

Cr Hitchen acknowledged the rise of medium density housing as a major

D

Werner Forschinger and Tricia Hitchen in Oxley Park this week. Photo: Melinda Jane

WESTERN SYDNEY DENTURE CLINIC

contributor to the problem, especially along Brisbane Street.

“Brisbane Street once had 100 houses and now there are more than 500 townhouses... it’s just not working,” she said.

Mr Forschinger agreed, saying development was a major contributing factor to the parking problems.

“I think Council is somewhat to blame,” he said.

“I don’t think there was enough forethought put into planning as far as parking goes.”

Cr Hitchen has called on Council to look at implementing some form of residential parking program to relieve the pressure, or at the very least, adding “visual cues” to remind people not to park their cars over driveways.

“I’ve spoken to the Traffic Engineers about putting in marked parking bays and using up every available space,” Cr Hitchen said.

In his recent one-on-one interview with the Weekender, Penrith Mayor John Thain admitted all three levels of government had “failed” Penrith when it came to parking.

“We all need to work together to sort it out,” he said.

Have you experienced the parking problems in Oxley Park? Tell us what you think by calling 4722 2998 or emailing news@westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Council

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

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State Politics

“Chaos and confusion” as State Government delays new Levy he State Government has delayed the introduction of the Fire and Emergency Services Levy (FESL).

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian made the shock announcement on Tuesday, saying the Government had listened to community concerns.

Currently, the Emergency Services are funded through State contributions (14 per cent), Local Government contributions (11.7 per cent) and levies attached to privately held insurance, mainly for building and contents insurance policies (74.3 per cent).

But from July 1, the funding was to come largely from the FESL, collected quarterly by Council as part of rates.

Funding would no longer be collected via insurance policies, reducing those premiums for the end user.

However, the plan is now on the back burner with Ms Berejiklian confirming that there were concerns about the burdens to be faced by small and medium sized businesses.

“We are a Government that listens, and we have heard the concerns from the community, and we will take the time to get this right,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“While the new system produces fairer outcomes in the majority of cases, some people – particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors – are worse off by too much under the current model.”

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Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said that in a number of cases identified so far, the lived experience has not matched the intention of the reform for commercial and industrial sectors, particularly for small and medium businesses.

“The FESL is a complex reform and we always knew there would be challenges during the transition phase,” he said.

“It’s not enough for this reform to work on paper – its real-life implementation has real life consequences for families and businesses, and we need to make sure they are not placed under unfair strain.”

Opposition Leader Luke Foley said the Premier and Treasurer clearly hadn’t done their homework.

“The community, emergency service workers, councils and insurers were all looking to government for certainty and all they are getting is chaos and confusion,” he said.

Last week, Penrith Council raised concerns over the introduction of the FESL, particularly around the funding model and the ultimate cost to local rate payers.

The FESL will continue to be collected via insurance policies until the NSW Government has completed its review of the policy, and the funding requirements of fire and emergency services agencies will be met in full.

War of words erupts over education Lindsay MP kicked out of question time as Government and Opposition fight over funding “cuts” EMILY NEWTON

he Federal Government has denied it is cutting funding to education, claiming Labor is using misleading figures in its criticism of the recent Budget.

Teachers Federation representative, President of the Nepean Teachers Association and Cambridge Gardens Public School teacher, May Ptolemy, said her school is set to lose over $400,000.

“That’s an extra pair of hands, an extra professional in the room to help support students and get them moving along to meet student outcomes appropriate to their grade,” she said. “$400,000 might seem like a drop in the ocean for Mr Turnbull, but it’s all these little drops in the ocean that make huge waves for us, huge impacts for our kids.”

But the figures being used by critics of the Government, which suggest a $23,200,550 hit to Lindsay schools, are based on a deal struck by the Gillard Government more than three years ago and are not physical cuts from existing funding.

Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham said that there are no cuts and funding for NSW students increases by $3.6 billion over the next decade.

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Michael de Wall and May Ptolemy claim the funding cuts under Gonski 2.0 will have a major impact on Lindsay. Photo: Melinda Jane

“The new online estimator shows that schools across Lindsay would get a boost of $28.6 million in Gonski needs-based funding between 2017 and 2021,” Mr Birmingham said.

“We’ve used the best data sets available in Australia to develop our funding plan unlike some of our critics who seem to be doing their calculations on the back of an envelope.”

But Michael de Wall from the NSW Teachers Federation said the new funding model undermines the integrity of Gonski needs-based funding.

“For schools, that really means programs, extra teachers, and extra support teachers won’t be able to be engaged over the next few years,” he said.

Speaking with passion, it was a subject that saw Labor Lindsay MP Emma Husar kicked out of Question Time in Parliament.

Ms Husar expressed her “disgust and frustration” to Parliament, saying that the Turnbull Government had turned on the children of Lindsay.

“Every single one of the 43 public schools in my western Sydney community of Lindsay is going to lose money,” she said.

“More than $23 million has been ripped out of public schools right across the Penrith region.”

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Federal Politics

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Health

Miracle recovery that stunned doctors Leigh Miller was told he had four months to live, but now his cancer has almost disappeared entirely EMILY NEWTON

eigh Miller’s world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma at the end of last year.

The father of two was told he had less than four months to live.

But through a clinical drug trial, Mr Miller has seen his cancer almost disappear entirely.

“I just found out one morning, I had a swollen lymph node in my groin area, and so I got it tested,” Mr Miller said.

“I had Stage 4 melanoma. It had spread to be in my brain, lung, lymph nodes and other parts of my body.”

He was told by doctors chemotherapy and radiotherapy would not help him, and the best and only option was a clinical drug trial.

His doctor at Melanoma Institute Australia managed to get Mr Miller on the groundbreaking Anti-PD1 Brain Collaboration (ABC) clinical trial that involves advanced melanoma patients being given a combination of two different immunotherapy drugs.

“It had worked for a few people, and I Googled everything, and there was some

L

Leigh Miller and his family are enjoying every day as it comes

St Nicholas of Myra

websites saying there was only a 10 per cent success rate,” Mr Miller said.

“I was number 69 out of the 75 spots available and I felt very lucky.

“When we asked them originally what my doctors thought, they said there were promising signs.

“Today, I think they’re over the moon.”

Mr Miller’s story is a success that defies the statistics, as he saw his lesions reduced to 1 or 2mm in diameter, if not disappearing altogether.

But the trial was not without complications.

Just one day before the trial began, Mr Miller was in agony from what he describes as “horrendous pain” as he struggled to breathe with his wife rushing him to hospital.

He also had to take five months off work while undergoing treatment.

Today, Mr Miller is enjoying being back at work full-time and spending quality time with his family.

“Having a family, having my two kids, it was a bit shocking,” he said of the experience.

Not surprisingly, he now treats every day as a gift.

“The trial saved my life,” he said.

“I feel pretty much perfect.”

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION The following Development Application has been received by Council: s Care Developers Pty Ltd DA17/0414 229-231 Great Western Highway, St Marys Demolition of existing structures and construction of 9 x 2-storey townhouses and associated tree removal, car parking, landscaping and civil works Contact: Mahbub Alam on 4732 7693 Closing Date: 16 June 2017

K-6 Catholic Education

DEVELOPMENTCONSENT/SDETERMINED Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council.

Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free of charge during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Approved Development Application s La Land Pty Ltd DA16/0488 Lot 17 DP 1195110 (Nos. 98–116) Lakeside Parade, Jordan Springs Construction of 2 x residential flat buildings (total of 79 x units) and associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works s Statewide Planning DA16/0566 Lot 55 DP 1069025 (Lot 55) French Street, Werrington Subdivision of part of the site into 111 x Torrens title residential allotments and associated road construction, drainage and landscaping works s Brandster Services Pty Limited DA16/1202 Lot 4 SP 63491 (No. 4/15) Lee Holm Road, St Marys Occupation of Unit 4 as a waste management facility-oily water treatment plant Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker. Alternatively the applications can be viewed during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

TRUTH THROUGH LEARNING www.stnicholaspenrith.catholic.edu.au 8

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Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

visitpenrith.com.au WW28407

NEWS

Talking Rubbish

withTRIPOD

A DAY ABOUT WHERE TO STICK YOUR RUBBISH

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre Join us for a family fun day with laughs, live music, waste-related games and more! penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/TalkingRubbish This project is supported by the NSW EPA as part of theWaste Less, Recycle More initiative and funded from the waste levy by Penrith City Council.

ADMINISTRATION

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

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri.

FROM MIDDAY

SUNDAY 4 JUNE

CONTACT US

Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

PENRITH

COUNCIL BRIEFS

The ‘Left Only’ restriction is proposed to redirect through traffic in the precinct, via the more appropriate wider, collector type

● As locals, you know better than anyone how great Penrith is.

Now it’s time to share your love!

roads of Ridgetop Drive and Shearwater Drive while still allowing suitable access to Wattlebird Crescent for residents,

Post a photo or video of your favourite spot, thing to do,

waste collection vehicles and other service vehicles.

Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri.

restaurant or local event on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter

P: 4732 7777

go in the running to win a GoPro HERO 5 with Karma Drone,

restriction. Submissions close on Friday, 30 June 2017.

F: 4732 7958

Samsung Galaxy S8 or one of 25 x $100 Westfield Gift

Please submit your comments in writing to Mr Graham Green,

Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751.

Vouchers. Competition closes 30 June 2017. Details at

Penrith City Council, PO Box 60, Penrith 2751 or email

visitpenrith.com.au

council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

including the hashtag #BraggingRights and #VisitPenrith to

● Don’t forget to jump online and complete the Sport, Recreation,

Council invites comments on the proposed ‘Left Only’ traffic

All submissions will be conveyed by Council to the Roads and

SERVICES

Play and Open Spaces survey at yoursaypenrith.com.au

Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735

We’re developing a 10-year strategy that will inform how we prioritise and invest in these spaces, to best meet the needs

If you would like more information, please feel free to contact

Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

of our communities in the future.

Mr Graham Green on 4732 8218.

Graffiti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

MEETING DATES Council Meetings 26 June 2017 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting) 10 July 2017 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au visitpenrith.com.au

We know how important sport, recreation, play and open (green) spaces are in our community, and we need the community’s input and ideas to help shape our planning

Maritime Services.

TENDER

priorities for the coming years.

Sportsfield Lighting Upgrade – Erskine Park

Go to yoursaypenrith.com.au for more information.

Reference 16/17-19

● Council has reopened the Woodriff Gardens car park which will now provide 116 permanent car spaces and five motorbike spaces.

Penrith City Council is seeking Tenders from suitably experienced contractors, for the upgrading of the lighting to 100 lux for Fields 1 & 2 and the Practice Field at Peppertree Reserve,

Stage one of this permanent car park was delivered on time

Swallow Drive, Erskine Park.

following a four-week construction schedule.

Approximately 100 additional spaces will be delivered on the

Pre-Tender Briefing at 10am on Tuesday, 13 June 2017.

Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Our-Council/Tenders/ to register

site in a second stage due for completion late 2017.

and download tender documents free of charge. Alternatively a

PUBLIC NOTICE

hard copy is available for a non-refundable fee of $75 (inc GST)

Proposed ‘Left Only’ Traffic Restriction in Wattlebird Crescent at Ridgetop Drive, Glenmore Park A permanent ‘Left Only’ traffic restriction is proposed in

by arrangement.

For queries please contact Laura Stott on 4732 8282 or Procurement@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au All submissions should be lodged on the forms provided in

Wattlebird Crescent at its intersection with Ridgetop Drive,

accordance with the lodgement instructions contained in the

Glenmore Park. The ‘Left Only’ traffic restriction relates to

documents no later than 11am, 28 June 2017 (‘the Closing

vehicle traffic with full pedestrian access retained.

Date’). Tenders received after this time will not be considered.

facebook.com/penrith.city.council

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN my Penrith

Turning back time

One of the big stories of 1961 was Penrith City Council’s application to include 4000 acres of Emu Plains land within its boundaries.

Protests were loud, and there were passionate scenes at town meetings. In the end, Emu Plains became part of the Penrith LGA.

prize cupboard

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Tim Newton Tilbrook Penrith FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Too many to narrow down but special mention to the new High Street Social.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? The coffee shop above Myer in the Plaza because my wife and I accidentally planned our wedding sitting there.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? The Red Cow. FAVOURITE PLACE TO RELAX IN PENRITH? My flat.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The view of the Mountains.

WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The parking above the Plaza food court.

hrow together a history lesson on racism, some sassy and smart women and a race to launch man into space and you have the feel-good film ‘Hidden Figures’.

This movie follows three African American women as they work tirelessly to win the space race in the racially segregated NASA computing department.

You’ll be forgiven for not knowing the names of Katherine Johnson (Taraji P Henson), Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae) and Dorothy Vaughn (Octavia Spencer) off the top of your head.

But, by the end of the film, the determination and intelligence of these women, who were faced with discrimination every step of the way, will make you wonder why you don’t see them in the history books more often.

‘Hidden Figures’ is out now on DVD and Blu-ray.

The Weekender has five copies of ‘Hidden Figures’ on DVD to give away. For your chance to win one, email the code word ‘HIDDEN’ to competitions@westernweekender. com.au with your name and contact details. Entries close Thursday, June 8. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/17/01416. Terms and conditions at www. westernweekender.com.au or Western Weekender reception.

Ice cream lovers unite! We’re pretty excited that Messina is on its way to Penrith. There’s no doubt that Messina sets the benchmark for gelato and ice cream in Australia. It opens very soon!

Why do supermarkets, especially Coles at Nepean Village, have to re-stock their shelves during open hours? It’s become extremely frustrating and almost impossible to navigate comfortably.

Dose of Dorin

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The ABC’s ‘Four Corners’ was the 19th most watched TV show on Monday night, but it deserved a much bigger audience. Its Sydney Siege investigation was first class, and an example of journalism at its finest.

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the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Protest

Listen to The Week podcast from 9am Saturdays on our website or social media pages

Protest attracts small crowd Around 150 people attend anti-Islamic rally in Penrith CBD

Werrington Arterial Road Open to traffic Roads and Maritime Services has opened the new Werrington Arterial Road and M4 Motorway ramps.

Crowds gather at the protest in Penrith last Sunday

This is the first major project to be delivered as part of the $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan.

TROY DODDS

The completed Werrington Arterial Road project, will accommodate major growth areas in Werrington and help reduce congestion for motorists on the busy north-south corridors including Mamre Road and The Northern Road.

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It will also provide better access to the M4 Motorway, improve travel times and reduce congestion.

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Electronic message signs are in place to notify road users of the changes in traffic conditions.

We thank you for your patience while we delivered this important project.

here were confronting scenes in the Penrith CBD last Sunday with around 150 people attending an anti-Islamic protest.

Organised by the Party for Freedom, the protest was initially arranged to fight against a proposed Islamic school in Henry Street, but instead focused on wider issues after it became clear that Council had asked for the school’s Development Application to be withdrawn due to constraints surrounding the proposed site.

Speakers at the protest voiced concerns about immigration, schools and the potential for mosques or prayer halls to built in Penrith.

“Our biggest enemy that we are facing right now is apathy,” said one of the speakers, Toby Cook.

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“The Islamists will take over but it’s up to us to stop them. There should be more of us here. There should be more concerned Australians standing up and sending a message that this will not fly in our neighbourhoods.”

Another speaker, Liz Fredericks, said too many Muslim immigrants were “on welfare”.

“You want to come to Australia for a better way of life? Learn English, learn a trade and get to work,” she said.

“If you can’t do that, the answer is simple. Get back on the boat, get back on the plane and don’t look back.”

Those against the rally arrived shortly after it began, carrying a “Love Penrith, Hate Racism” sign.

They were significantly out-numbered, but made their opposition to the rally loudly known.

Police were on hand to monitor the situation.

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St Stephens village On 1 July 2016 Anglican Retirement Villages (ARV) and Anglicare Sydney joined together to form Anglican Community Services, trading as Anglicare.

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the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Roads

Upgrade set to ease pain for frustrated motorists EMILY NEWTON

s debate surrounding the reintroduction of the M4 toll continues, Stuart Ayres finally has something roads related to smile about.

The Penrith MP and Minister for Western Sydney last week joined Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure Paul Fletcher and Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies to open the upgrade of the Werrington Arterial Road.

The road upgrade, a part of the Turnbull Government’s $75 billion infrastructure program, will help create a more effective national road network.

Mr Ayres said investment in infrastructure is essential to prepare for the Penrith region’s rapid population growth.

“We’re cracking on with the delivery of vital arterial roads to ensure people who live and work in the area can get where they need to be faster,” he said.

“This project has been a massive boom for local businesses, with more than $7 million worth of contracts awarded to 50 western Sydney suppliers and contractors.”

Mr Fletcher said the upgrade would provide faster, safer access to the M4 motorway.

“Werrington Arterial Road is a game

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changer for western Sydney motorists with the widening set to ease congestion on The Northern and Mamre Roads, reduce travel times and improve safety for motorists,” Mr Fletcher said.

“The upgrade forms part of the transformative $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan, which is building business confidence and making western Sydney the place to invest.”

Ms Davies said the Werrington Arterial Road would transform the area for residents and motorists.

“This important upgrade includes a widened two-kilometre section of the Kent Road and Gipps Street corridor to four lanes, and two new east facing ramps to the M4 Motorway, which will increase capacity and improve travel times for road users,” Ms Davies said.

“The new north-south corridor will also give the St Marys industrial area better access to the major freight routes, which will support jobs in the region.”

The completion of the project also means that the 80km/h roadwork zone on the M4 has disappeared, with speeds back to 110km/h between The Northern Road and Mamre Road.

Have you used the new Werrington Arterial yet? What did you think? Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Stuart Ayres opened the Werrington Arterial Road to traffic last week. Photo: Kate Reid

Your new home and retirement lifestyle at Caddens Village New 1, 2 and 3 bedroom villas releasing late July. Previous stages sold quickly. Join our Priority Register to be invited to our July sales launch.

Located just 3km from Penrith, close to shops and public transport, this pet-friendly village offers a wonderful retirement lifestyle with pool, gym, bowling green and more, all provided by a caring, Christian, not-for-profit organisation. Residential care also onsite.

Don’t delay! Make an appointment to view our display suite and explore Caddens village. Be sure to join our Priority Register so you don’t miss out on reserving a villa at the July sales launch.

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Caddens Village On 1 July 2016 Anglican Retirement Villages (ARV) and Anglicare Sydney joined together to form Anglican Community Services, trading as Anglicare.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Search warrant finds drugs, ammunition and a snake

A Penrith man caught with a protected snake in his care as well as drugs and ammunition has been hit with a number of good behaviour bonds and fines.

Christopher James Cochran, 30, fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday to be sentenced for ‘possess protected fauna’, two counts of ‘possess prohibited drug’ and ‘possess ammunition’ after a search warrant was executed on his former Lemongrove Road share house.

His lawyer told the court the red and black corn snake was given to the accused as a gift and he was unaware it was protected fauna, while the ammunition consisted of a lone bullet.

“He intended to make it into a necklace,” his lawyer submitted.

But Magistrate Margaret McGlynn found the ammunition charge still warranted conviction, regardless of the limited quantity.

“There’s a great need for firearms and ammunition to be regulated in the community, despite being a single bullet,” she said.

He was convicted, fined $220 for the ammunition matter, $110 for possession of the snake and ordered to enter into a 12-month Section 9 good behaviour bond for meth possession.

Couple was frustrated at lost wages following cafe opening

A couple who threatened to damage the reputation of a cafe owner who allegedly owes them thousands of dollars in lost wages has been slapped with good behaviour bonds.

Elise Cubis, 30, and her fiancé Adam Smith appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with ‘demand with menaces with intent to obtain gain/cause a loss’.

Their lawyer submitted the offences arose out of an “extreme sense of frustration” and Mr Smith “lost his cool” when the victim ignored their demands to

cough up $21,500 for six months’ lost wages.

The court heard Ms Cubis had agreed to help set up the cafe for free as she would be working there full-time as Floor Manager and was also a close friend of one of the co-owners.

But after an argument with the victim on opening night, Ms Cubis believed her employment had been terminated.

According to agreed facts, the victim claimed Ms Cubis had not had her employment officially terminated and that they had a verbal agreement once the cafe opened that Ms Cubis would receive her weekly wage plus an additional $50 to $100 to say thank you for her help.

The pair, who threatened to “ruin” the victim and the business if he didn’t give them the money, allege they also suffered threats of violence at the hands of the victim.

“I hear the submissions being made with respect to provocation and background,” Magistrate Margaret McGlynn said, “but this is an offence that carries with it a significant term of imprisonment – 10 years, I think.

“It’s in effect blackmail... though there is justification for the money demanded... this is not going to attract a Section 10 [dismissal].”

She said she had to send a clear message that this behaviour will not be condoned or tolerated.

“I accept that there is genuine regret for what’s contained in this facts sheet,” she said.

“You cannot take matters into your own hands – you cannot.”

The pair, who have otherwise clean criminal histories, each received a 12-month Section 9 good behaviour bond.

Man failed breath test after being caught speeding

Harry David has dodged a criminal conviction despite being clocked doing 118km/h in a road works zone.

Making matters worse, the 39-year-old

subsequently failed a breath test after being pulled over.

His lawyer told the court his client “didn’t fully grasp” the fact that a work zone continued 24 hours a day, noting he was picked up at 12.34am when no one was at the site.

The court heard the stretch of road was normally 110km/h and the construction zone was signposted at 80km/h.

But while Magistrate McGlynn exercised her discretion and dismissed the speeding charge pursuant to him entering a good behaviour bond, she noted there were bigger fish to fry with the drink driving offence, which was aggravated by the excessive speed.

He was convicted of mid-range drink driving, fined $600 and barred from driving for six months.

From TV’s ‘Underbelly’ to Penrith Local Court

Former stripper turned undercover agent and police trainee, Kim Hollingsworth, was back in court last week seeking an adjournment.

Ms Hollingsworth, who rose to prominence when her character featured in Channel 9’s ‘Underbelly:The Golden Mile’, appeared before Penrith Local Court as part of her annulment application.

It comes after a Wollongong judge in February this year rejected her appeal against her conviction of animal neglect.

Ms Hollingsworth was banned from owning horses for two years and ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal, vet and boarding costs last June after 27 malnourished and diseased horses were seized by the RSPCA. A representative for the RSPCA told Magistrate Margaret McGlynn last Thursday that Ms Hollingsworth’s annulment application was lodged on “moral objection” grounds and one she didn’t want “ventilated in open court”.

However he said the prosecution deemed it to be without merit.

The court heard the applicant sought a four-week adjournment in order to subpoena the Police Integrity Commission.

“It is important you act quickly and issue the subpoenas so the matter is not further delayed,” Magistrate McGlynn reminded Ms Hollingsworth.

Ms Hollingsworth contested the allegations of animal neglect in a lengthy hearing in Wollongong Local Court, arguing she had entrusted the feeding of the horses to others who had apparently not carried out her instructions, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

She is due back in court on June 23.

Man back in jail after returning to life of crime

A drug addict who relapsed and resumed a life of crime has found himself back in jail.

Shaun Rowe appeared before Penrith Local Court via video link last Thursday after being subject to the revocation of his parole, which was due to end on July 6.

The accused, who was charged with possessing house breaking implements and resisting arrest, told the court he realised what he was doing was wrong.

“He hates the life of addiction,” his lawyer said.

The court heard Mr Rowe had been in residential rehabilitation and was doing well until his release earlier this year.

“When he was released from Adele House in January 2017, he effectively became homeless and relapsed,” his lawyer said.

“He accepts he needs more help with respect to rehab.”

Magistrate Margaret McGlynn found given his record and being on parole at the time meant there was no other alternative to full time custody.

“It’s quite obvious you’re an articulate and intelligent person and you want to change your ways, but you’re not doing it,” she said.

He is eligible for release on parole on October 23.

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY EMILY NEWTON

Penrith: Man arrested after spate of thefts from vehicles

An arrest was made that is allegedly linked to a recent spike in ‘steal from motor vehicle’ incidents last week.

On Thursday, May 25, police attended an address on Illawong Avenue in Penrith following enquiries.

Due to circumstances at the residence, police had cause to speak to a person inside a shed at the rear of the property.

Inside, there were three males, a 24-year-old and a 33-year-old from Penrith and a 34-year-old formerly from Mudgee with no current fixed place of address.

Following enquiries, police discovered that the 34-year-old was wanted following a number of ‘steal from motor vehicle’ incidents in the Mudgee area.

He was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with ‘goods in custody’.

As a result of the arrest, police conducted a search of the shed and found an extensive number of items that allegedly link to recent ‘steal from motor vehicle’ incidents across the Penrith and St Marys Local Area Commands.

The male was bail refused and is expected to have further charges laid.

Detectives are currently establishing the owners of some of the stolen property that has been recovered.

Penrith: House fire on Jipp Street suspicious, police say

Two people have been treated at Nepean Hospital after a fire that is deemed as suspicious by Penrith Police.

At 6.21pm on Monday, May 29, NSW Fire Brigade responded to a call about a house fire on Jipp Street.

The fire was extinguished a short time later, with minimal damage to the building.

There were three occupants at the premises.

A 19-year-old female and a 25-year-old male from St Marys were taken to Nepean

Hospital to treat minor burns and smoke inhalation.

Police attended the scene with detectives where a crime scene was established.

Penrith: Pram used in attempt to steal toys from shop

A man was caught using his child’s pram in an attempt to steal some toys at Nepean Village last weekend.

At about 12.50pm on Saturday, May 27, a 37-year-old male from Glenmore Park was shopping in K-mart with his wife and child.

The man’s wife handed him a number of items and then moved out of the view of security cameras.

The man selected a number of toys and placed them under the child’s pram.

The family then left the store without paying for those items.

A loss prevention officer witnessed the incident in the store, approached the couple and detained the man until police officers arrived.

He made full admissions to stealing, and was issued a Criminal Infringement Notice.

St Marys: Woman charged after failing to learn her lesson

A woman was stopped by police twice in half an hour for driving with a suspended licence.

At about 6pm on Saturday, May 28, police were patrolling the Great Western Highway in St Marys when they stopped a vehicle.

Following checks on the driver’s licence, the 27-year-old Colyton woman was revealed to be a suspended driver.

Further checks revealed that she had been stopped on Bennett Road, Colyton at 5.30pm that evening for the same offence.

She was subsequently charged with ‘Drive motor vehicle while licence suspended’ for each incident and will appear in Penrith Local Court on June 20.

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

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Marriage equality The marriage equality debate is taking centre stage in mainstream media once again following the decision of Australian tennis great Margaret Court to boycott Qantas because of its support of marriage equality.

Debate has been rife in the media about Court’s treatment following her public stance against Qantas with many arguing that her right to have an opinion should be defended. Supporters of Court appear to be missing a very crucial point however; Court threw the first punch. She is a woman of significant influence, a Christian Minister, who publicly attacked a company with millions of stakeholders arguably to push a personal, political or religious agenda.

The real debate however is the subject of marriage equality itself.

Perplexingly, despite the Government’s refusal to put a marriage equality bill before Parliament, there already exist numerous examples of State and Federal laws that recognise same-sex relationships as being identical to heterosexual ones.

Here are some of examples of these inconsistencies: • The Family Law Act. The definition of a de facto relationship in one of the country’s most active pieces of legislation does not preclude samesex marriages. In fact, family law affords parties to a same-sex union the same protections as heterosexual couples.

• Welfare. In assessing a person’s access to welfare benefits the Government deems a same-sex de facto relationship as a valid relationship reducing welfare entitlements to

each party of the relationship as if they were in a heterosexual relationship or were married.

• Criminality. In a society where homosexuals cannot get married based on their sexuality you might be surprised to learn that child molesters, rapists, murderers and other violent criminals are still afforded the right to marry. This is despite not only their offences but our legal system determining that they should be deprived of their most basic human right, liberty, and confined to a prison cell.

• Social Security More Generally.

A same-sex law reform package passed through Parliament in November 2008 to remove discrimination against same-sex de facto couples in areas such as taxation, superannuation, social security and other areas.

It is obvious that some of the changes resulting in these inconsistencies are positive, for example in the context of family law and social security. But it begs the questions, if we have come so far in some areas, why is the Government still petrified to legislate for marriage equality?

The only answer is that it is a political ploy to pander to the religious conservative base of the current Government.

Interestingly, the ALP have emerged as vocal champions of the cause despite doing nothing to change the status quo when they were last in power up until 2013.

It’s a disenchanting state of affairs when social issues like this one are dictated by politics, not society.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 ÂŤ the western weekender

Council

Fuss over grass: Crameri and Cornish want “pest� banned ALENA HIGGINS

ocal waterways and National Parks are in danger of invasion by rapidgrowing grass unless Council reinstates its Kikuyu grass policy, Councillor Kevin Crameri says.

Cr Crameri has urged Council to “back me up� and restore its policy of not laying Kikuyu grass in rural and sensitive areas bordering waterways and National parkland. “It’s a bloody pest,� he said during Council’s May 22 meeting. “I don’t care what happens in the town areas, but it’s definitely no good in the National Park and rural areas as it travels to the next drain and the next.�

Councillor Marcus Cornish concurred, also suggesting Council review the grass it grows on verges to prevent the need for Council workers to mow as often as they do now.

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Inexpensive and quick to propagate, Kikuyu remains a popular lawn variety.

But grown in the wrong places, the vigorous performer can prove disastrous, escaping from gardens and overtaking many wild areas, choking creeks and other waterways.

Cr Crameri said it was important Council solidify its stance. “We’ve had this policy for 20 years and it’s worked well and just suddenly it’s disappeared,� he said.

However, Councillor Bernard Bratusa noted that he hadn’t been able to discover a clear policy position as Cr Crameri indicates.

Executive Manager Environment and City Development, Wayne Mitchell, told Councillors he didn’t think it was a “quick, simple policy�. “It’s better to incorporate it into the broader review we’re doing,� he said.

In the interim it will be dealt with by way of conditional consent.

Safety has been improved outside of two schools in the Mulgoa electorate, with the installation of new flashing lights.

The new lights have been installed at Regentville Public School and Christa-

delphian Heritage College as part of a statewide roll-out of flashing lights at 400 school zones.

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies said it was a big win for the schools and would help ensure students remain safe.

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“Change only happens in politics if people speak up in some way” Londonderry MP Prue Car joins the push for Parliament to pass Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill EMILY NEWTON

or many Australians living with terminal illnesses, each day is a struggle full of pain and frustration.

Knowing their torment from first hand experiences, State Member for Londonderry Prue Car strongly supports the draft bill to allow terminally ill people to voluntarily end their lives.

In an exclusive interview with the Weekender, Ms Car opened up about why she chose to support assisted dying.

“I have a really firm view, I think people should have the right to die with dignity if that’s their choice, and if their medical professionals believe that it’s an informed choice for them,” she said.

“I come from a place where prior to politics I worked for MS Australia for six years.

“You can’t explain what it is to live with a progressive, debilitating condition like that.”

The Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill was drafted by a cross parliamentary working group made up of members from the Coalition, Labor, Greens and an independent and would give someone over 25 the right to request assistance from medical practitioners to end their life.

The bill has certain safeguards in place to qualify for assisted dying, including patients must be expected to die from their illness within 12 months, the decision must be signed off by two medical practitioners, the patient must be assessed by an independent psychiatrist or psychologist to guarantee they are of sound mind and there is a 48-hour cooling-off period.

While it is a difficult and emotive issue, it’s something that Ms Car believes is long overdue.

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“I’ve met a lot of people over the years who are 45-years-old and living in nursing homes,” she said.

“Their bowels don’t work, their bladders don’t work, they can’t eat, they can’t talk.

“To say that it’s heartbreaking is an understatement.”

Ms Car said that the rate of self harm in people with terminal or lifelong debilitating conditions is disproportionately high and needs to be addressed.

“When you get to know these families, the fact that they don’t have a right to make a choice about their own life, that will never leave me,” she sadly recalled.

“People resort to really bad measures.”

Ms Car can understand why not everyone agrees with her way of thinking.

“I have a view, and I know there are other MPs that have a real view the other way, and they come at it from a different lived experience,” she said.

“Change only happens in politics if people speak up in some way.”

When asked about his views on the controversial bill, Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said that he will be studying its content “closely” if it comes before the lower house.

“As a principle I support the idea that all people should have the right to die with dignity and palliative care is a critical component of our healthcare system,” he said.

Ms Car encourages her constituents to visit her office and discuss their opinion on assisted dying before the bill goes to debate from August.

The draft of the bill can be found on the NSW Legislation website.

What are your thoughts on the issue? Let us know by sending an email to news@ westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

State Politics

Prue Car is encouraging the community to let their Member of Parliament know their views on assisted dying so MPs can make an informed decision. Photo: Kate Reid

Police

Top cop humbled by award EMILY NEWTON

hile Constable Lisa Myers humbly believes she was just dutifully doing her job last year, the community knows her bravery is what keeps us all safe.

Penrith’s top cops were celebrated last week at Rotary’s 2016 Police Officer of the Year Awards, with Constable Myers taking out the prestigious main title.

Nominated for two incidents, her pivotal role in both the Nepean Hospital shooting in January 2016 and the fire at O’Donoghue’s Pub in June 2016, the almost 27-year-old Constable Myers has shown incredible strength and courage in her early career as a Police Officer.

“They were two very different jobs, I

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Penrith’s top cop: Constable Lisa Myers

don’t want to downplay either of them,” Constable Myers told the Weekender.

“Both were challenging, and they were both dangerous.

“It’s an honour to receive this award, but I know any of my colleagues would have done the exact same thing.”

Constable Myers, who lives locally, has been stationed at Penrith since December 2014.

“Penrith is a really good station, it’s really well resourced, we’ve got an array of jobs to go to,” she said.

“You’re doing different types of jobs every single day.

“I always wanted to be a police officer, I attended my first open day in the Academy back in 2007.”

In January 2016, Constable Myers was in the line of fire during the incident at

Nepean Hospital that resulted in Sergeant Luke Warburton and a security guard being shot by an offender.

Then, in June 2016, she attempted to save the life of a man that suffered burns to 90 per cent of his body following the suspicious fire at O’Donoghue’s Pub. Despite these courageous efforts, Constable Myers did not think she would win the award, taking her parents as her guests instead of her husband.

“I didn’t think I was going to win, and because of that I bought my mum and dad with me because they live locally,” she laughed.

“I just thought I was just going along to support my colleagues. I was blown away by the things they had done.

“We’re out there doing the things that we do so that people will be safe.”

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Health

Local club off the naughty list There’s some good news for Panthers Leagues Club, with the popular local club removed from the State Government’s violent venues list.

With 11 incidents in the past year, the club now leaves the Government’s naughty list along with Shoal Bay Country Club Hotel and Jacks Bar. The Ivy nightclub in Sydney is the only hotel considered a ‘level one’ violent venue, with 36 incidents in a 12 month period.

14 venues are on ‘level two’ restrictions including PJ’s Irish Pub in Parramatta and Sydney’s Home Nightclub.

Liquor & Gaming NSW Deputy Secretary Paul Newson said it is common for numbers of listed venues to fluctuate from round to round.

“This latest list follows the scheme’s best ever results six months ago when for the first time there were no venues in level one,” Mr Newson said.

“Listed venues will be closely monitored but the results show the level of violent incidents remains on a longer-term downward trend.

“The violent venues scheme has made a significant contribution to this reduction and helped ensure the community can enjoy safer nights out, with an 82 per cent fall in the number of violent incidents since first established in 2008.

“The vast majority of venues across NSW do the right thing and provide a safe environment for people to enjoy a night out.”

Audit delivers worrying diagnosis State Opposition says results are proof health system is under pressure EMILY NEWTON

lmost half of the biomedical equipment in major hospitals has not been properly maintained, according to an audit.

The independent Audit Office report explored medical equipment management in NSW public hospitals, finding hospitals had 48 per cent of biomedical equipment tested and maintained later than when the work was due.

14 per cent of biomedical equipment was lost, removed from clinical use or unable to be identified.

Nepean Hospital was among the hospitals audited.

NSW Shadow Health Minister Walt Secord has described the findings as “alarming” as patient safety was at risk.

“Again, we see a health and hospital system under enormous pressure,” he said.

“While this is only a snapshot of five hospitals, there are more than 80 emergency departments in NSW and more than 200 hospitals, so this is only a tiny glimpse of the situation.”

A NSW Health spokesperson said recommendations of the report have already started to be actioned.

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I just want to know if the insurance companies will drop their premiums (Council claims double-dipping at play, Weekender May 26). So far I haven’t heard anything, so it is a bit worrying. I reckon the rates will go up quite substantially and if insurance premiums don’t [drop] then it will make things a lot harder especially for pensioners like us.

JANICE MCNEIL, VIA FACEBOOK

Still work to do National Reconciliation Week is held annually on May 27 to June 3 in celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and to nurture and grow on the relationships shared

by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. It is important to recognise that Indigenous history and culture is Australian history and culture. These two dates, May 27 and June 3, hold great significance to Australians as they represent two major events in our nation’s reconciliation journey. This year is especially significant for Indigenous rights as May 27 is the 50 year anniversary of the 1967 referendum where Australians voted overwhelmingly to amend the constitution to include Aboriginal people in the census and allow the Commonwealth to create laws for them. June 3 2017 is also the 25 year anniversary of the Mabo decision, where

the High Court of Australia decided that terra nullius should not have been applied to Australia. The landmark decision recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have rights to the land – rights that existed before the British arrived and can still exist today. Australia’s mistreatment of Indigenous Australians is a national shame. These two cases are significant in our attempt to rectify our wrongdoings; however our journey to complete reconciliation is far from over.

My organisation, Youth Off The Streets takes great pride in reconnecting young Indigenous Australians with their history and culture. I employ Aboriginal youth workers and case workers to connect to young people and encourage them to be proud of who they are and where they come from. This reconciliation week I implore all Australians to get involved in your community’s reconciliation events.

FATHER CHRIS RILEY CEO, YOUTH OFF THE STREETS

Remembering Lauren I was in primary school when this happened and my brother went to high school with her sister (Editor’s Desk, Weekender May 26). I have never forgotten it as it was so close to home and being a young kid it made me scared. Life should be life. Let’s pray he stays where he belongs till he dies.

LEIGH FISHER, VIA FACEBOOK

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space.

For more information, see our public notices section.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

State Politics

Vintage FM to rock the Gold Coast Local Penrith radio station Vintage FM is packing up their crew and heading to the Gold Coast for the Cooly Rocks On festival next week.

The breakfast show with Grizzly Adams and drive with Willmo will be broadcast from the Coolangatta Surf Club balcony on Thursday, June 8 and Friday, June 9.

Vintage FM will also broadcast from the Surf Club on Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11.

Established in 2011, Cooly Rocks On has evolved to become Australia’s largest rock ‘n’ roll and nostalgia festival and a signature event on Queensland and Australia’s event calendar.

Over five action packed days, Coolangatta and Tweed will come to life to celebrate everything we love about the 50s and 60s and Vintage FM will broadcast it live on air to those at the festival, plus to their worldwide audience online.

Site investigations and site setup on The Northern Road Upgrade, Glenmore Parkway to Jamison Road from Wednesday 31 May 2017

New wheels improve resources for hard working SES members

Troy Grant and Stuart Ayres presented Penrith’s local SES crew with their new emergency vehicle. Photo: Kate Reid

Roads and Maritime Services is continuing site investigations, and work to setup the main site office and work areas for The Northern Road Upgrade between Glenmore Parkway, Glenmore Park and Jamison Road, South Penrith.

EMILY NEWTON

This work includes removing existing barriers, constructing temporary pavement, installing new fencing, clearing vegetation, surveying, utility investigations, earthworks and demolition works and constructing the site office.

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We will be onsite from Wednesday 31 May to Friday 30 June 2017, weather permitting.

Our work hours will be between 7am and 6pm on Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturday. Night work will be required to deliver part of this work, night work hours will be from 7pm to 7am, Sundays to Saturdays.

Thank you for your patience during this important work.

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

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Night work will be limited to a maximum of three consecutive nights in any one location, unless agreed with residents. This work is being carried out at night to reduce the impact to motorists on The Northern Road and M4 Motorway during busy day time periods.

There will be some temporary traffic changes to ensure the work zone is safe.

enrith’s State Emergency Service (SES) unit is even more equipped to help you in a hurry, with a brand new emergency response vehicle presented to them at a special handover ceremony last week.

Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant and Penrith MP Stuart Ayres officially presented the Penrith unit with their new wheels.

“The NSW Government is proud to support the SES and its volunteers by providing more than $179,000 to

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purchase this new emergency response truck for the Penrith unit,” Mr Grant said.

Mr Ayres said the vehicle is modern, efficient and ergonomic, designed for the best possible assistance in any emergency situation.

“The Penrith unit volunteers will now be better resourced to respond to flood, storms and other emergency jobs,” he said.

NSW SES Sydney Western Region Controller, Peter Cinque, said the new vehicle will help volunteers carry out important emergency response work.

“This new vehicle is a welcome asset to the Penrith unit fleet,” he said.

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the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Education

More parking now available

Students paint the town REaD National Simultaneous Storytime event promotes literacy skills EMILY NEWTON

re-schoolers, students and adults let their imagination run wild through a morning of reading, singing and dancing to celebrate National Simultaneous Storytime last week.

120 people got cosy last week at Hogs Breath Penrith where this year’s book, The Cow Tripped Over the Moon, was read aloud.

Councillor Greg Davies opened the event and was presented with a Paint Penrith REaD book box to be displayed in Penrith Council’s foyer.

Community Champion Graham Fitzpatrick said the Paint Penrith REaD program and the book boxes focus on “giving kids the skills they need for life through early literacy”.

“These book boxes are a great way to keep kids entertained while being out and about and means children have easy access to books,” he said.

“It is also an opportunity for the business community to help increase literacy levels.”

The book was also simulcast on For Kidz radio, a part of Vintage FM’s Target Radio Network.

National Simultaneous Storytime, now in its 17th year, is an annual campaign

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Over 100 people attended the Paint Penrith REaD event at Hogs Breath Penrith that aims to encourage more young Australians to read and enjoy books by promoting the value of reading and literacy.

If you would like to adopt a book box or find out more information about the initiative, contact Mr Fitzpatrick on 0408 302 664.

Penrith City Council has reopened the Woodriff Gardens car park, which will now provide 116 permanent car spaces and five motorbike spaces.

Stage one of this permanent car park was delivered on time following a four week construction schedule.

Approximately 100 additional spaces will be delivered on the site in a second stage due for completion later this year.

“Building permanent parking at Woodriff Gardens is an example of how Council is making existing parking in Penrith more efficient and user friendly,” Penrith Mayor, John Thain said.

“Our community is growing rapidly and revisiting existing parking is one part of our strategy for smarter parking.”

One of the major parking problems in Penrith is for commuters, with existing parking not meeting demand and usually full by 7.30am.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Top photographer Wallacia photographer Natalie Howe has reaffirmed her status as Australia’s top newborn photographer by taking out the title of 2017 AIPP NSW Newborn Professional Photographer of the Year.

More than 70 of New South Wales’ best professional photographers gathered at Sydney’s Darling Harbour last Tuesday night for the awards presentation dinner at Blackbird Café.

Mrs Howe specialises in newborn, portrait and wedding photography.

“I am a wee bit obsessed with photography and that is why I love what I do so much,” Mrs Howe said.

This year, the awards were peer-judged anonymously over the course of two days by some of Australia’s most recognised photographers including Tony Hewitt, Steve Wise and Shireen Hammond.

Grants for gardens Schools can build their dream garden or outdoor classroom with the help of the Yates Junior Landcare Grants for Gardens program, which is now open for applications.

15 grants valued at $2,000 each are available for schools, youth groups and childcare centres, who will benefit from $1,500 in funding, $500 of Yates garden products and a growing consultation with a Yates gardening expert.

Yates is excited to join groups for a consultation to help them uncover the joy of the garden, and wants to arm kids with the tips and tricks they need.

To enter, visit www.landcareaustralia. org.au/grants-for-gardens.

Community

John and his dogs hit the road again Local gears up for his 26th Outback Car Trek – all in the name of charity EMILY NEWTON

ne local is about to embark on a massive 3,500km Outback Car Trek with his two dogs, to raise much-needed funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Only, his dogs aren’t quite the barking canines you would expect – they are his famous fur covered cars.

John Gorman has been a longstanding supporter of the annual fundraiser, participating since 1992, where participants drive specially modified pre-1978 vehicles from all over Australia.

“There is something happening all day every day, it’s always busy,” he said.

“Over the years you’re always breaking something – motors, suspension.

You never know what’s going to happen next.”

The six-day endurance test also brings much-needed business to the many small towns and communities on the route, which changes each year.

Beginning this Sunday, June 4, the trek will see participants travel between Griffith and Port Macquarie while travelling through South Australia and southwestern Queensland along the way.

“This is my 26th year, I just love the outback and the adventure of the drive.

O

John Gorman’s new pup car will join his well known dog car on the 3,500km journey.

Photo: Melinda Jane I’ll keep going until I can’t anymore,” he laughed.

“This year is the first year that I’ve got both cars. It’s a big team effort.

“The camaraderie is great on the trek, too. It’s like a reunion every year when we all meet up on the road.”

Mr Gorman’s team will be easy to spot on the road as he drives his original dog car that has been on the trek before, and

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“People stop and take photos of it, and now that we’ve got two of them, it will be even funnier,” Mr Gorman said.

“That’s the idea, to make people laugh.”

The Trek raises funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. To support Mr Gorman’s crew, visit outbackcartrek2017. everydayhero.com/au/9k9-big-dog.

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

Quality education As a parent I understand the importance of getting the absolute best care and education for your kids. I also know how tough it can be to find the right childcare or preschool that’s also convenient for the daily routine and affordable.

Council owns and operates 26 childcare centres and preschools across the Penrith Local Government area, which are the perfect balance between affordability, convenience and quality childcare.

Every centre currently has places available, and provides a safe, secure and inclusive environment for all children.

Our centres have highly qualified staff who really make the difference. In fact, all of our centres meet or exceed the standards set by the National Quality Framework.

We have competitive prices and most of our centres offer an all-inclusive fee, meaning there are no additional or hidden costs with all nappies, blankets and

food provided at no extra cost to you.

Our staff are passionate and dedicated to their work and the children they care for. The creative and unique ways our staff engage children are truly amazing. Children are given the opportunity to explore mindfulness and relaxation, sustainability and natural environments, and even be creative and direct activities with their own ideas.

And because our centres are owned and run by Council, they’re not-forprofit, which means all our staff care about is providing the absolute best care and education for your child.

With 26 locations across the region, there is a centre convenient to your home or work.

Don’t just take my word for it – head over to Council’s website and see what local families have to say about our centres and services – penrithcity.nsw. gov.au/childcare.

CR JOHN THAIN Mayor of Penrith

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: Keep up to date with all the local breaking news, sport and more by ‘liking’ us on Facebook. Visit www.facebook.com/ westernweekender.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Community

Hole lot of fun on Doughnut Day Penrith locals can score a free treat as Krispy Kreme celebrates the best national day of all ers don’t realise it was that long ago,” Ms Barber said.

“They always say ‘Oh, this was the first store, how many years is it now? I remember when you first opened’.”

Having worked at Penrith for almost a decade, Ms Barber said the company is great to work for.

“The people here are great and everyone treats you well,” she said.

“We take National Doughnut Day on board as giving back to the community.”

Russell Schulman, Head of Marketing for Krispy Kreme Australia, said National Doughnut Day is their favourite day of the year.

“Our customers love seeing the Original Glazed come hot off the doughnut line,” he said.

If you’re after something a little sweeter to buy and taste, Ms Barber recommends the Apple Custard Crumble doughnut that was created by a former Penrith team member.

“It’s apple and custard mixed together in the middle dipped in a white icing with biscuit crumbs, with cinnamon mixed through,” she said.

Today’s delicious promotion is limited to one free Original Glazed doughnut per person.

EMILY NEWTON

oughnut miss out on your chance to celebrate National Doughnut Day today (Friday, June 2) by enjoying a free mouthwatering Krispy Kreme doughnut.

Holding their biggest Original Glazed doughnut giveaway to date, Krispy Kreme is ready to give away 30,000 of its signature treats nationwide, with the Penrith store ready for hungry locals.

Store Manager Kristen Barber said they are expecting over 2,000 customers to walk through their doors.

“On quieter days, the customer count is around 500, but on the busier days, it increases to about 1,300,” Ms Barber said.

“We will get double that I think.

“We’re busy from about 10am – we open at 6.30am but we will be flat out from 10am until we shut at 1am.

“This year we will have more free doughnuts because we actually ran out last year.”

The Penrith store was the first Krispy Kreme shop to open in Australia, and has seen tremendous success over the years as Krispy Kreme has expanded to have 19 stores across Australia.

“It was opened back in 2003 and custom-

D

Penrith Krispy Kreme Store Manager Kristen Barber is expecting the store to be busy today (Friday, June 2) for National Doughnut Day. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Education

Hidden gems and hashtags: Council wants you to brag!

Director General gets first hand look at IB programme in action nternational Baccalaureate (IB) Director General Dr Siva Kumari took time to visit St Paul’s Grammar School during her brief visit to Australia last week, where she spoke with staff and students and visited classrooms, witnessing the IB programme in action.

Leader of the IB Organisation since 2014, Dr Kumari is the first female Director General of the IBO and was originally engaged in 2009 as Asia Pacific Regional Director.

St Paul’s staff and students were honoured to receive Dr Kumari and her associate to the school, amidst a busy schedule of meetings with government and education officials.

During her visit Dr Kumari was keen to engage with students directly, asking them to share learning experiences and challenges they encountered in learning the IB Diploma programme.

Dr Kumari sat in on classes at the school and conversed with students, clearly enjoying the candid insight, reflecting on the IB Continuum as it was taking place throughout the classrooms they visited.

From a Kindergarten Unit of Inquiry on Indigenous culture, to Year 4’s exploration of Music and Year 6’s analysis on their recent excursion to the Quarantine Station, the scope and foundation enabled by the IB Primary Years Programme was in vivid evidence.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Council

I

In his spare time, Penrith Mayor John Thain enjoys going to Werrington Lakes esidents are being asked to share what they love most about Penrith on social media as part of a new campaign by Penrith Council.

The ‘Brag About Penrith’ campaign encourages locals to share photos or videos of their favourite spot, thing to do, restaurant or local event on their Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages.

All posts which include the hashtag #BraggingRights and #VisitPenrith go in the running to win a GoPro HERO5 with Karma Drone, Samsung Galaxy S8 or one of 25 $100 Westfield Gift Vouchers.

Penrith Mayor John Thain said he’s looking forward to learning about

R

Penrith’s hidden gems through this unique campaign, which is expected to be a huge success.

“Locals know better than anyone the best things about Penrith. By sharing this local knowledge you’re helping to spread the word about Penrith as a great place to live, work and visit,” he said.

“So whether it’s your favourite park or playground, the cafe that serves the best coffee or the activity you do with your friends or family on weekends; we want to know about it.”

Winners will be announced every Friday on the official Visit Penrith social media pages.

IB Director General Dr Siva Kumari School Captains Matthew Thomas and Meredith Colagiuri took a break from the secondary school Athletics Carnival, to elaborate on the positive impact of tackling aspects of the Diploma Programme such as the Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) unit, as well as detailing the ‘stress points’ each of them have experienced.

The IB programme is offered in more than 2000 schools in over 120 countries around the world.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

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he name Big Poppa’s Burgers may be gone, but newly rebranded Downtown Brooklyn is still serving up some of Penrith’s favourite burgers.

The popular burger joint has recently acquired a new investor, with plans to expand the brand with a series of franchise locations across the country.

“The rebranding is in line with our investor’s five year plan to roll out Downtown Brooklyn throughout NSW then interstate, starting early 2018,” Operations Manager, Nyome O’Shea said.

“We have updated our burger menu and drink menu with some new offerings, but theme, décor of Brooklyn and paying homage to Big Poppa still remains a core value to our company.”

If you love a good feed then you’ll want to head to Downtown Brooklyn this month for the introduction of all you can eat burgers.

Kicking off on June 5, Monday nights just got a whole lot better.

Stay tuned to Downtown Brooklyn’s Facebook page for further

details on this new and exciting option.

Lunchtime diners can also get their hands on a great deal with Monday to Friday lunch specials that includes a chips and drink upgrade with any burger for just $4.99.

Facebook followers will get all the latest news on weekly burger specials, with weird and wacky burger creations like the Waffle Burger, Starwars, Big Poppa and Tworiffic. Downtown Brooklyn is not just about great burgers though, with $10 cocktails on offer during happy hour every day from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

With great food and expansion opportunities on the horizon, the future of this Penrith favourite is looking bright.

“We are excited with the new facelift, new team and look forward to where the next year will take the company,” General Manager, Chris O’Shea said.

“We have some great ideas and plans in place for renovations of the top roof, which will roll out Sunday sessions once completed.”

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Is starting early the key to business success?

How to build your social media follower base (Pt 2)

Michelle Grice // Founder of Shel Design

Jane Tweedy // Western Sydney Business Centre

0412 701 147 | info@sheldesign.com.au

4721 5011 | info@wsbusiness.com.au

I

read an article this week purporting that starting a business in your early 20s is the best way to be a successful business owner. I am making an educated guess that the author of the article is likely to be in their early 20s and has no comparison, because I found it difficult to agree with any of it! Here are some of the reasons put forward: Right time to adopt new technology (“You cannot expect a 55-year-old to have the same level of excitement to use apps as a 17-year-old).

This point was downright insulting!

While there are some older people who are technology averse, there are many, particularly in business, who have embraced it.

Additionally, the author also stated “… in your 20s you can learn and unlearn anything you want”, implying that the same is not true if you are in your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond.

This shows an embarrassing lack of knowledge about lifelong learning and the ability for the human brain to keep changing and learning as a more mature adult.

Ability to take risks (“When you are young, you can afford to take risks, fail in your business and rise up again”).

Older business owners actually often take on more risk, as they understand that time is of an essence. They are far more motivated to take a risk and make it work for their family or other commitments. They also have the wisdom to know what is a sensible risk and what is not worth it.

High energy level (“The young generation has more energy, enthusiasm and motivation compared to Baby Boomers and Generation X”).

This one actually made me laugh out loud! I suppose all of us in our early 20s thought this about older generations.

But with the benefit of hindsight and experience, I can say without a doubt that my energy and enthusiasm is far higher now than in my 20s. My motivation to succeed has also increased exponentially.

Success in business has very little to do with a person’s age.

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Run a competition Run a standalone competition or partner with another business with your target market to do a giveaway – they will post it on their socials so your business name will get to their fans too. One of the conditions of entering can be that they need to be following your socials to be eligible to win. Make sure you are following the Facebook and Instagram competition guidelines.

Like posts (and comment) Keep on the lookout for posts that correspond with the services you offer and like the posts, and better yet, comment.

Most people only like posts and rarely comment, so when you comment you’re putting your business name in clear sight for other people who view the posts and are likely to visit your page from there.

Utilise hashtags Monitor hashtags in your niche to find potential followers who fit your target market. By interacting on that post, you’re becoming visible to those potential followers. By establishing your own hashtag, you are creating a profile of your posts that people can see when

they search for your hashtag. Also use hashtags that correspond with your business like #painter or #painterpenrith.

You’ll find a lot of Gen Y’s now search for businesses through hashtags, so by using these on your posts, you’re opening the door to potential new clients.

Tag others to get reposted If you are using brands to offer your service, tag their page in your posts. Just like you’d like to see your customers post about your business, they do too.

Chances are they will repost your content and you’ll appear in front of all their followers.

Promote your pages and posts So many people are afraid of advertising on social media because they are scared of the costs involved. Social media advertising allows you to set your own budget, and stop your promotion at any time, so you are in control of the bill at the end of the month. By promoting your page and posts occasionally, you are increasing your reach, to both your existing followers and new ones that may never have seen your socials or business before.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

BRANDY'S BACK » Penrith’s new halves combination of

Matt Moylan and Nathan Cleary got some high profile help on Tuesday when club legend Greg Alexander strapped on a pair of boots and offered some advice to the duo. ‘Brandy’, Penrith’s greatest ever halfback, looked like he could run out onto ANZ Stadium himself this Sunday – looking remarkably fit in his training gear (and clearly enjoying it, too!). There’s no doubt the advice from the 275 game veteran would have been invaluable to Cleary in particular, who this weekend welcomes his fourth halves partner since debuting last year.

Matt Moylan and Nathan Cleary with Greg Alexander

» A couple of other keen observers were

watching on as the Panthers trained at the Academy this week. General Manager Phil Gould and Recruitment Manager Jim Jones both keenly cast their eye over the sessions on Monday and Tuesday, which most notably saw Matt Moylan training at five-eighth. Moylan had returned to the Penrith camp after being released by NSW at the club’s request, but was back with the Blues team on Wednesday ahead of the State of Origin opener at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. Our photographer captured Moylan deep in conversation with Panthers coach Anthony Griffin during Monday afternoon’s session, presumably discussing the 25-year-old’s move to the number six jumper.

» Bryce Cartwright had surgery on his

knee last week, but there’s no definite return time slated in at the moment.

Speculation puts the recovery time at anywhere between six weeks and three months, meaning there’s a strong possibility Cartwright will only return for the last few matches of the season. With offfield issues still swirling around his head and an ongoing ankle issue, there’s every chance the time away from the week to week grind may do Cartwright the world of good. Carty was spotted at Panthers training on Tuesday morning, supported by a pair of crutches.

» Earlier this year I reported on interest

shown by the Wests Tigers in Peta Hiku, with suggestions that an official conversation had even taken place between the Tigers and Penrith in regards to a possible mid-season switch. I’m told that any possible move to the Tigers was off the table as soon as Ivan Cleary’s club signed Dragons forward Russell Packer. The pair have a personal history and Hiku would be unlikely to ever play in the same team as Packer unless it was a truly desperate situation.

» The Panthers will head to Bathurst on

Wednesday and spend a couple of days visiting schools and holding coaching clinics ahead of next Saturday’s match against the Raiders. There’s plenty of anticipation surrounding the team’s arrival in town and almost no doubt they’ll be treated like celebrities by the locals.

» The Australian Kangaroos will face

Fiji and Papua New Guinea in an historic contest in Suva ahead of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup. The innovative format of the match will see all three teams face each other on October 14, at Suva’s ANZ Stadium. Fiji will face PNG before Australia takes on both PNG and finally Fiji.

All three match-ups will last 40 minutes.

» Talking of the Rugby League World

Cup, there’s legitimate fears that players could take strike action that would threaten the tournament if their pay dispute with the NRL isn’t sorted out soon.

Most fans have blissfully ignored the pay dispute story but it’s getting some real traction now, especially with Kangaroos captain Cameron Smith being so publicly critical of the NRL this week. I’d suspect the whole thing will get sorted out, but

there’s little doubt that both the players and the clubs are starting to have more and more concerns about how the game is being run at NRL headquarters.

» Talking of the NRL at war with the

clubs, get ready for round 2 when head office takes over some of the game’s digital offerings, including the mobile apps currently run by the clubs themselves. There’s already talk that a disaster is looming.

» Spotted: Panthers winger Josh Mansour having a great time watching the Liverpool v Sydney FC match from a private suite at ANZ Stadium last week.

» Spotted: Forward Reagan Campbell-

Gillard at Movie World on the Gold Coast late last week.

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MATCH PREVIEW

MANSOUR RETURNS PANTHERS V BULLDOGS | SUNDAY, JUNE 4 • 4.00PM | ANZ STADIUM | REFEREES: GRANT ATKINS & ALAN SHORTALL | TV: CH 9

PANTHERS 1

Dylan Edwards

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 20

Josh Mansour Dean Whare Waqa Blake Dallin Watene-Zelezniak Matt Moylan (c) Nathan Cleary James Tamou Mitch Rein Reagan Campbell-Gillard Corey Harawira-Naera Isaah Yeo Trent Merrin Tyrone Peachey Leilani Latu 16 Tim Browne Viliame Kikau Sitaleki Akauola 19 Peta Hiku Moses Leota 21 T Martin

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

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BULLDOGS

Josh Mansour is back

TROY DODDS @troydodds

T

he ‘season so far’ for both Penrith and Canterbury reads strikingly similar, so it’s probably no surprise to see them sitting side by side on 10 competition points heading into this Sunday afternoon’s clash at ANZ Stadium.

Like the Panthers, the Bulldogs have notched up wins when they were needed most but have failed to find consistency, leaving a frustrated fan base to ponder what the second half of the season will bring, knowing it could go either way.

As we reflect on the opening 12 rounds of the competition, it’s safe to say the Bulldogs have fared a little better than

Penrith. While they were hammered 36-0

by Manly back in Round 4 and couldn’t keep up with the Cowboys a few weeks ago, there’s been some positive signs in a lot of their losses.

They’ve played the high flying Roosters twice, going down by four and six points, and managed to hold Melbourne to 12 points back in the opening round, losing by just a converted try. Last Saturday night they well could have upset Cronulla at Shark Park, but fell to a late field goal.

They’ve also had some impressive wins, including their 10-7 victory over Brisbane back in Round 5, and a tough 16-10 win over Canberra at ANZ Stadium.

Penrith too can tell plenty of ‘almost’ stories, including close late losses to the Roosters and Rabbitohs, but have been outplayed in too many games for most fans’ liking.

While the Panthers have finally won

back to back games and look to be back in contention for a Finals spot, there’s two glaring issues that stand out.

The first is that the sides they’ve beaten this year are currently running 13th, 15th and 16th on the ladder. You can only play what’s in front of you, but it hardly offers confidence about the results to come.

The other issue is pretty obvious – first halves. Penrith has only scored one first half try in the last five weeks, and has been completely outplayed in the opening 40 minutes. In all but one of those games, they fought back to either make the scoreline respectable or produce an unlikely victory, but it’s still far from good enough.

Penrith coach Anthony Griffin has had to deal with some selection headaches this week with both Bryce Cartwright and Peter Wallace missing through injury, but thankfully Josh Mansour finally makes his return and will certainly add

1

Will Hopoate

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 19 21

Brett Morris Josh Morris Brenko Lee Kerrod Holland Matt Frawley Moses Mbye Aiden Tolman Michael Lichaa James Graham (c) Josh Jackson Adam Elliot David Klemmer Sam Kasiano 15 D Fualalo Greg Eastwood 17 C Garvey Francis Tualau 20 M Montoya R Toomaga 22 R Kennar

some much-needed grunt and power to the backline. Penrith has missed his kick returns enormously this year.

Mitch Rein gets his opportunity to play first grade at Penrith in place of Wallace, while Griffin has switched Matt Moylan to five-eighth, a natural progression for the skipper and one that has probably come a little earlier than most expected.

This will be a tough contest and while I’m tipping the Panthers will be much better in the first half this week, I still think they might be behind at the break.

In the end though, they should have too much attacking flair for a Bulldogs side that too often goes into its shell when the bounce of the ball doesn’t go their way.

The weekend off should also give Penrith an advantage, especially after Canterbury’s grinding affair with Cronulla last weekend.

Tip: Panthers by 4

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

Moylan’s move may not bring immediate results

JAMIE SOWARD

W

ith Panthers star Bryce Cartwright getting injured during Penrith’s win over Newcastle a fortnight ago, the Matt Moylan experiment at five-eighth is about to begin.

I know a lot of footy experts and supporters have been calling for Moylan to wear the number six jumper for a long time, but I personally still see him as a fullback.

Yes, Moylan’s played one State of Origin game at five-eighth and he gets his hands on the ball enough anyway, but it’ll be the defensive load that he’ll have to deal with that will pressure him the most.

I have no doubt that the Panthers skipper will be able to handle it and it will probably be a better move for the whole team. But it will take some time adjusting and, to be honest, Penrith don’t really have the time to be in an adjusting period.

Moylan is a big game player but he’ll have to get his hands on the ball early and get involved straight away.

What the Panthers have been lacking this season is organisation, and I think this move gives Nathan Cleary a chance

to be a little bit more organised. Bryce Cartwright is one of the best backrowers in the country, when he’s fit, but he’s been playing out of position a lot this year at five-eighth.

I think with Moylan in the halves alongside Cleary, Penrith’s organisation will improve immensely. Plus young gun Dylan Edwards, who will get his chance at fullback this week, is a good organiser too.

What’s great about this new combination is that you’ve got players who are comfortable with pushing other players into position.

The big problem with Cartwright at fiveeighth was that he was a backrower and was asked to do a job that he was not used to.

This Sunday against the Bulldogs, you’ll notice Cleary continue to do a lot of the kicking with Moylan doing a lot of the organising near the line, which will hopefully help Penrith’s attack.

On another note, one player I do feel sorry for is Te Maire Martin, who I believe didn’t get a long enough chance to settle himself into Penrith’s halves.

Martin’s young and he was always going to take some time to learn, but when I

played with him last year, his form was very good and it was just unfortunate he got an injury that ended his season early.

The best thing for Martin now is to continue to play good footy in reserve grade and perhaps make a move to

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

Brought to you by

another club in the not too distant future.

I personally would have preferred to have seen Martin stick it out in first grade a while longer, but coach Anthony Griffin has gone in a different direction and it will be fascinating to see how it all plays out.

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This week’s student of the week is Jordan Butler. Jordan attends Penrith Public School and has enjoyed participating in our Rock and Water lessons. Rock and Water is a program designed to teach social skills, self-reflection, and self-control through movement, physical awareness and games. This program has been a cornerstone of the Panthers on the Prowl classroom for number of years.

For those students who prefer to be physically active it is a great way to teach some sophisticated ideas around body language, inner strength, resilience, communication and adapting to change. Jordan has shown particular enthusiasm and enjoyment during these lessons.

the western weekender

WesternProperty

37

Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE

LIFE'S JUST PEACHEY NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

P

anthers utility Tyrone Peachey is a changed man after the birth of his beautiful little princess, Penelope, back in January this year.

The 25-year-old former Cronulla Shark was once the life of the party, often hitting the town for a night of fun and drinks after a Penrith victory.

However, these days, things are a lot different at the Peachey household.

Not only is the Indigenous All Star recently engaged to his partner and mother of his child, Kellie, but he’s also neck deep in daddy duties.

“I do the nappies and all that,” Peachey admitted to Extra Time.

“It’s been four and bit months since Penelope was born, she’s getting big now.”

Before Penelope’s birth earlier this year, Panthers insiders say the livewire backrower was your typical young NRL star – living life as if the world revolved around them.

However, the birth of his daughter has changed Peachey for the better. He now prefers to stay at home and watch his daughter play than decide who will buy the next round of drinks.

“The best thing is seeing her little smile, everything about her is perfect,” Peachey said.

“She’s so cute and she’s starting to get a little personality now.

“It has settled me down; I don’t want to leave her. She’s too cute and growing up too fast.”

As with all new mums and dads, being a parent certainly has its challenges.

Whether it’s dealing with a sickness, changing a nappy or calming down a tantrum – parenthood certainly isn’t for everyone.

Tyrone Peachey with his daughter Penelope Peachey said he’s received some much needed advice from his fellow teammates, like James Tamou, Sam McKendry and Dean Whare, who are also young fathers.

“Some of the boys told me that if the baby is crying and I’m a bit rattled by it, to make sure the missus is close,” he joked.

“There’s a few of the boys having kids

now, so training has turned into a bit of a ‘Father Club’ which is good.”

Joining Peachey in ‘Father Club’ soon will be teammates Josh Mansour and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, who also announced recently that they too were expecting their first children with their respective partners.

WW24699

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

FEATURE

PLAYERS MAY STRIKE NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

A

s the ugly pay dispute between the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) and the NRL rages on, Panthers and Kiwi centre Dean Whare is concerned that his dream of playing in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup could be in jeopardy.

Earlier this week, Melbourne Storm captain and RLPA General President Cameron Smith refused to rule out potential strike action after being angered by the NRL’s response to the player union’s pay demands.

If matters with the game’s governing body aren’t sorted out soon, it’s been reported that some of the NRL’s biggest names could strike and sit out the upcoming Rugby League World Cup – a disastrous consequence for the international game.

Whare, who recently returned to the international arena with the Kiwis back in April, said it’s very concerning that the game’s future is so up in the air and that

strike action could be a possibility down the track.

“The senior players and RLPA have a policy set in place and it’s up to them to sit down together and decide what we are going to do,” he said.

“It’s a big issue at the moment, with no one knowing what’s happening next year.”

Whare said it’s a goal of his to play for New Zealand in the end of year World Cup but he’ll be sure to monitor proceedings closely over the coming weeks.

“For us players, we have delegates and senior players that go into meetings with the RLPA and then we get updated every one to two weeks about what is going,” he said.

“We haven’t had a big chat about it this week but no doubt we will soon.

“It’s another goal for me and a lot of players to play in the World Cup, hopefully it can be sorted out soon.”

Meanwhile, Whare said he’s refreshed and ready to do battle against a desperate Canterbury Bulldogs outfit this Sunday afternoon at ANZ Stadium.

After spending his bye weekend with family, the 27-year-old is confident he

Panthers centre Dean Whare chatting with journalist Nathan Taylor on Tuesday along with his teammates are in a good place as they aim for three straight wins for the first time this year.

“A few of the boys needed a freshen up after playing nearly every game so far this

year, so the bye came at the right time.

The Bulldogs are a quality team and it will be a challenge for us this week to try and start fast and get on the front foot early,” he said.

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39

Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

IN PICTURES

SEEING CLEARY NOW D OB : 14/11/97 • Deb ut: 04/0 6/ 16 • First Grade Gam es: 26 CC TYRES is a family-owned independent business established more than 60 years ago We supply many local businesses, Fleet companies, Government and Trade contracts. Selling all Tyre Brands, we supply and fit for Cars, Trucks, 4X4, Trailers, and Farm and Plant machinery.

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• Tyre sales • Wheel alignment (standard • Tyre puncture repairs (all tyres) • Wheel sales front, front and rear, full • Road Service for on site equipment inc backhoes, • Wheel balancing thrust alignment) bobcats, trucks, tractors etc

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

Basketball Uniform Specialists Quick Delivery & Super Quality www.riverwest.com.au WW26556

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Friday, June 2, 2017  the western weekender • extra time

Call 02 4721 1611 for details. Available until sold out.

gotzinger.com WW28410

42

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

Storm

11

9

0

2

1

238

165

+73 20

2 Sharks

12

9

0

3

0

227

154

+73

18

3 Dragons

11

7

0

4

1

269

183

+86

16

4 Broncos

12

8

0

4

0

261

189

+72

16

5 Roosters

12

8

0

4

0

252

194

+58

16

6 Sea Eagles

11

6

0

5

1

260

203

+57

14

7 Cowboys

11

6

0

5

1

213

222

-9

14

8 Raiders

12

6

0

6

0

276

225

+51

12

9 Eels

12

6

0

6

0

220

252

-32

12

10 Panthers

11

4

0

7

1

222

233

-11

10

11 Bulldogs

12

5

0

7

0

178

207

-29

10

CLUB

1

+/-

PTS

12 Titans

11

4

0

7

1

258

292

-34

10

13 Warriors

12

5

0

7

0

216

259

-43

10

14 Rabbitohs

12

4

0

8

0

204

269

-65

8

15 W. Tigers

11

3

0

8

1

152

290 -138

8

16 Knights

11

2

0

9

1

184

293

6

-109

Round 13

FACE IN THE CROWD

Friday, June 2 6pm AAMI Park

/ / / / / / /

Friday, June 2 8pm ANZ Stadium

Saturday, June 3 3pm ANZ Stadium

Saturday, June 3 5.30pm Allianz Stadium Saturday, June 3 7.30pm 1300 Smiles Stadium Sunday, June 4 2pm Lottoland

Sunday, June 4 4pm ANZ Stadium

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES

IS THIS YOU? Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

If it is, you’ve won a $100 JB HiFi voucher thanks to Penrith Homemaker Centre. To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 014 PRINTED BY Spotpress Pty Ltd / PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

BYES Sharks Rabbitohs

CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Jamie Soward SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi/ 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

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43

Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

GIVEAWAY

WIN FOOTY TICKETS

T

he mighty Penrith Panthers are spending plenty of time on the road at the moment but they’ll be back at Pepper Stadium next month for a big clash against Manly.

And we’ve got a family pass to give away to see the highly anticipated match between the Panthers and Sea Eagles on Saturday, July 8 at 5.30pm.

You’ll see Panthers stars like Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Matt Moylan, Trent Merrin and James Tamou in action, while the visiting Sea Eagles will bring a host of stars to the foot of the Mountains.

Sit on the hill and enjoy the family atmosphere, or grab some terrace seating and be a little more comfortable as you watch the Panthers secure another important victory.

Extra Time has a family pass to give away to the Panthers v Sea Eagles match at Pepper Stadium on Saturday, July 8.

For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Panthers’ in the subject line and include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, June 15. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/17/01416. Terms and conditions on our website.

Photo: Megan Dunn

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143 Coreen Avenue PENRITH 4721 2112

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

BLAST FROM THE PAST

THE MEN IN CHARGE

C

oaching a first grade rugby league team is one of the most stressful jobs in world sport, and 17 men have had the privilege of that stress at the Penrith Panthers.

Penrith’s coaching history is full of twists and turns, starting all the way back in 1967 – the club’s inaugural year in top grade rugby league.

Leo Trevena was in charge in that first season, his debut year as a coach having played for Western Suburbs and Canterbury during the 1950s.

Trevena was replaced at the end of the 1967 season by Bob Boland, who was in charge for five seasons before Trevena returned to lead the side in 1973 (a wooden spoon year for Penrith).

Trevena passed away in 2013.

The little-known Jack Clare took over for the 1974 season, while Mike Stephenson was credited as player-coach for much of 1975. Later in 1975 Barry Harris took the reigns, coaching the side for a total of 28

matches before he moved on at the end of the 1976 season.

1977 saw the arrival of Don Parish at Penrith, a New South Wales and Australian representative who had previously coached Western Suburbs. Parish struggled to get results, winning just 10 of his 44 games in charge of the Panthers. Midway through the 1978 season, he was told he wouldn’t be required for 1979.

Len Stacker then coached Penrith for the 1979, 1980 and 1981 seasons, before John Peard took over for 1982 and 1983.

Things started to look up for the Panthers when Tim Sheens arrived in 1984. He would go on to coach Penrith for nearly 100 games, including to its historic first Finals appearance in 1985.

Ron Willey took over in 1988 and 1989, before the arrival of the legendary Phil Gould.

In his first season at the club, Gould took Penrith to a Grand Final, and a year later he won the club’s first premiership. Gus would ultimately coach Penrith 109 times,

Len Stacker (wearing glasses) watches on from the stands during his tenure as coach leaving during the 1994 season as the Super League war started to erupt.

Royce Simmons, who had only retired from playing three years earlier, took over as coach for the rest of 1994 and wouldn’t leave until the end of 2001. He holds the record for the most games in charge of the Panthers (177), finishing with a win percentage of 42.9 per cent.

With the Simmons era over, John Lang landed in the coach’s box in 2002 and a year later, guided the Panthers to their second title. He would coach Penrith until the end of 2006, when he was replaced by Matthew Elliott.

Elliott coached Penrith to a wooden spoon in his first year, and struggled to find success at the club, only making the Finals once during this tenure. He was sacked by Phil Gould half-way through the 2011 season and replaced by Steve Georgallis, who coached the side 11 times – the least of any coach in Penrith’s history.

Ivan Cleary took over in 2012, coaching Penrith 98 times (equalling Tim Sheens), while Anthony Griffin arrived in 2016.

Officially, Ron Willey is the most successful Penrith coach of all time with a 66 per cent winning rate, but Gould and Lang without doubt made the biggest impact.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS

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tr ivia 1. Against which club did Leilani Latu (pictured) make his NRL debut in 2015?

2. Who holds the record for the most games in charge of the Panthers as Head Coach?

3. Who is the current major sponsor of the Panthers?

4. How many games did Greg Alexander play for Australia?

5. Who is playing fullback for the Panthers this Sunday?

ANSWERS: 1. Souths 2.Royce Simmons 3. OAK 4. Six 5.

Dylan Edwards

Storm Warriors Dragons Roosters

106

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 2, 2017

Storm Eels Dragons Roosters

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47

BUSINESS EXPO 7th June 2017 Springwood Hub

Book online at: www.bmchamber.org.au/expo/register/ FREE SEMINARS AT THE BUSINESS EXPO 10.00am: Privacy, Social media and Data Breaches – New Laws and Issues Facing Business – Katherine Hawes, Digital Age Lawyers 10.45am: Go & Grow Online – Matthew Roozendaal, Australia Post 11.30am: Making a Motza! Everything you wanted to know about Investments – Adam Mondy, Mondy Financial Services

12.15pm: How to be Really Successful at Work – Using Emotional & Conversational Intelligence to get ahead 1.00pm: Write Winning Award Submissions! – Julie Bargenquast, Blue Mountains Regional Business Chamber 2.45pm: Protecting Your Most Valuable Investment – Property Management & Real Estate Matters – Sharon Morgan, Bartons Real Estate

BUSINESS EXPO EXHIBITORS Balance! Springwood Family Practice

BUSINESS EXPO SPONSORS WW28325

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Still making us laugh

T KATE REID

here may be plenty of opinionated voices on the comedy scene, but lovable Irish funny man Jimeoin isn’t one of them.

“I don’t really have strong opinions on things, I more like to observe,” the comedian explained.

“It’s not really my comedy style to pass judgments on other groups of people or the way we should live.”

With his laid-back and delightfully silly style Jimeon prefers to turn his attention inwards.

“I’m more concerned about my own shortcomings, and believe you me there’s plenty of them,” he laughs.

“If you point them out you realise they’re very common and you don’t feel so bad.

“It helps people to think ‘oh, he’s as big a f**k up as I am’,” he laughed.

Having been a fixture in Australian comedy since the early 90s, Jimeoin has had plenty of time to perfect his craft.

Fine tuning the ultimate set is a work of collaboration between the comedian and his audience.

“You never quite get it right the first time, you might get the wording a little off or something,” he said.

“Over time, over maybe five or six gigs, you refine it and get it to a good level.

“Often with my best jokes I was trying to do one thing and then something else got a laugh.”

Jimeoin will be coming to the Evan Theatre at Penrith Panthers this July with his latest stand-up show ‘Renonsense Man’.

When describing the show the popular comedian has the same straight forward, no-nonsense approach he brings to his comedy.

“Well, it’s a comedy show and it’s very funny, if I do say so myself,” he said.

While Australia was the birthplace of his comedy career, Jimeoin is currently focused on replicating that success a little closer to home, with shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and a 2018 tour of Ireland.

“I work in the UK probably more now than Australia,” he said.

“It’s started to take off a bit over the last eight years, so I thought there’s clearly a big market here. Plus I’m from that part of the world, so it makes sense.

“I also don’t want to die wondering.”

Jimeoin will be bringing his show ‘Renonsense Man’ to the Evan Theatre on Friday, July 7 at 8pm. Tickets are $44+bf.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.penrith.panthers.com.au or call 4720 5555.

Penrith - 4731 2577 Shop 5/51 York Rd

Werrington County - 9623 3244 4/1 Lavin Crescent

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Thank you very much for your support from the last many years. We have finished trading as Eagle Boys Pizza and now we are trading under a new name as YUMM!!! GOURMET PIZZA KITCHEN as of 16 May 2017 at the same locations. We will be providing you the same great quality pizzas along with our new exciting Gourmet Range. We’re looking forward to seeing you all.

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49

Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Talking Rubbish

withTRIPOD

A DAY ABOUT WHERE TO STICK YOUR RUBBISH

SUNDAY 4 JUNE Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre WORLD ENVIRONMENT SUN-DAY

TALKING RUBBISH COMEDY GALA

Fun for the whole family

Adults-only comedy

12-4pm Enjoy fun enviro-focused activities, entertainment and food for the whole family at the Mondo (outside the Joan).

FREE EVENTS

7pm Get your tickets for the adults-only Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala at the Joan and enjoy some of Australia’s best comedians.

Call 4723 7600 or go online at thejoan.com.au

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/TalkingRubbish This project is supported by the NSW EPA as part of theWaste Less, Recycle More initiative and funded from the waste levy by Penrith City Council.

50

WW28419

FINAL CHANCE TO BOOK

bridalbliss

KATE REID

V

ocalist Kylie Clarke never set out to be a Pink tribute artist.

But in 2008, after repeatedly being asked to perform Pink songs during corporate gigs on the Gold Coast, she gave in to public demand and ‘Think Pink’ was born.

In this two-hour, high-energy show, the talented entertainer will bring to life some of Pink’s greatest pop/rock hits.

Kylie has gone to great lengths to create the ultimate audience experience complete with costumes, dancers, a full light show and enormous sound.

Since releasing her debut album ‘Can’t Take Me Home’ in 2000, Pink has earned a reputation as a standout performer and created chart-topping

hits like ‘Get the Party Started’, ‘Most Girls’ and ‘So What’.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the music of one of pop’s biggest names live on stage in this show that is sure to leave you breathless.

‘Think Pink’ will be on at the Evan Theatre at Penrith Panthers on Saturday, June 24 at 8pm. Tickets are $25.50.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.penrith.panthers. com.au or call 4720 5555.

Playing for peace

EMMA KOCBEK

A

s part of events for National Refugee Week, Syrian-American composer and pianist Malek Jandali will be using his music to introduce audiences to the history of Syria.

An esteemed artist and humanitarian, Jandali has been internationally recognised for his dedication to building peace through music.

He has been awarded the 2013 Gusi International Peace Prize and the 2014 Global Music Humanitarian Award for his world tour ‘The Voice of the Free Syrian Children’.

Jandali’s performance at the Blue

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Experience Pink’s hits live on stage at Panthers

2017

Mountains Theatre will be his Australia debut for his concert ‘A Syrian Symphony for Peace’.

Featuring original music, his performance will draw on ancient folk melodies to present and preserve the rich history of Syria.

As an award-winning composer and pianist, Jandali’s performance is sure to be moving. Book early as tickets are expected to sell quickly.

‘An Evening with Malek Jandali’ will be on at the Blue Mountains Theatre on Friday, June 16 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $42-$44. For more information or to purchase tickets to the show, visit www.bluemountainstheatre.com or call 4723 5050.

After the incredible success of our previous “Spring Bride” magazine, The Western Sydney Publishing Group is now running an “Annual Bride” magazine distributed 16th June 2017.

Last chance to book Wed 7th June Booking artwork Thurs 8th June

Call Linda on 4761 3225 or email linda.miller@westernweekender.com.au

WW28430

WW23117

Annual Bridal Magazine A4 Full Gloss

51

52

WW25978

Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

Musical memories on show in the Blue Mountains

Be front of mind for tax time

KATE REID

T

and produced many of her own cabarets, including ‘Broadway Baby’.

Grab your tickets now to enjoy this midweek Broadway musical extravaganza!

‘Broadway Baby’ will be on at the Blue Mountains Theatre in Springwood on Wednesday, June 14 at 11am. Tickets are $20 and include Devonshire Tea at 10am. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.bluemountainstheatre.com or call 4723 5050.

Be put in front of our readers so you are front of mind for tax time.

We have a great offer to the first 3 agents that accept We are a truly Independent paper servicing Penrith for over 25 years.

Contact us today on sales@westernweekender.com.au • (02) 4722 2998

What’s on at your Club KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LTD 1490 Elizabeth Drive Kemps Creek NSW 2178 | (02) 9826 1375 www.kcsb.com.au | reception@kcsb.com.au | Find us on Instagram @kempscreeksportingbowling

WW27004

“It’s nice

“

ake a trip down Broadway this month with local singer and ‘The Voice Australia’ alumna Brittanie Shipway.

Audiences will be immersed in the glitz and glamour of New York City in its hey-day in the Morning Melodies cabaret show ‘Broadway Baby’ at the Blue Mountains Theatre.

Backed by a brilliant band, Brittanie will perform classic tracks like ‘Moon River’, ‘Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend’, ‘Singing In The Rain’, ‘My Funny Valentine’ and many more.

Brittanie Shipway is a Blue Mountainsbased performer who recently took on the role of director for the Blue Mountains Musical Society’s production of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’.

Brittanie is no stranger to behind the scenes roles, having written, directed

out here

’

WW23166

53

Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, June 2 Acoustic Soloist – Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Friday Night Lights – The Joan Free entry, 5.30pm 4723 7600 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Jesus Christ Superstar – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $36-$46, 8pm 4723 5050 Mary’s DJ – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Dean’s Karaoke with Freddie – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 2060 Toxic Dolls – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Australian Blink 182 Show – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 K.P – Oriental Hotel, Springwood Free entry, 8pm 4751 4488 Jalepeno Deluxe – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Blake Tailor Duo – Winmalee Tavern Free entry, 8pm 4754 2172

Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 The Eagles Show: Desperado – Rooty Hill RSL $25, 8pm 9677 4916 Big Way Out – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Jesus Christ Superstar – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $36-$46, 2pm and 8pm 4723 5050 Retrospective – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 House of Fun Comedy Night – Rooty Hill RSL Members – free, Visitors – $20, 8pm 9625 5500 Evie Dean – Macquarie Arms Free entry, 8pm 4577 2206 Todd McKenney sings Peter Allen Blacktown Workers Club 9830 0600 Saturday, June 3, 8.00pm, $55

Travis Collins Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Friday, June 2, 8.00pm, $20-$25

Stevie and the Easybeats Evan Theatre 4720 5555 Friday, June 9, 8.00pm, $22-$27

Friday Night Lights – The Joan Free entry, 5.30pm 4723 7600 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Mary’s DJ – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Ted Mulry Gang – Rooty Hill RSL $35, 8pm 9625 5500 One Hit Wonders – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Australian Guns N Roses Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Gavin Bowles – Oriental Hotel, Springwood Free entry, 8pm 4751 4488

Saturday, June 10 Janet Seidel Quartet – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Crawl File, Australian Crawl Show – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4731 3881 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 5764 Jayaram Show – Evan Theatre $30-$45, 6.45pm 4720 5555 Krazy Katz – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 One Hit Wonders – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 IWA Pro Wrestling – Blacktown Workers Club $14-$25, 8pm 9830 0600 Johnny Cash The Concert, Walk The Line – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $55-$59, 8pm 4723 5050 Jed Zarb – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4773 8888

Sunday, June 11 Evie Dean – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4773 8888 McCauley Raiders – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Songs of the Latin Skies – Katie Noonan and Karin Schaupp The Joan 4723 7600 Sunday, June 11, 5.00pm, $50-$55

Sunday, June 4 The Shuffle Boys – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Jesus Christ Superstar – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $36-$46, 2pm 4723 5050 Stephanie Lea – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4721 5764 Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala – The Joan Free entry (must reserve tickets), 7pm 4723 7600

Saturday, June 3 Jive Bombers – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881

Friday, June 9 Acoustic Soloist – Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666

LEURA FIRST SUNDAY MARKETS Sunday 4th June 2017 – 9am-2pm In the grounds of Leura Public School

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Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Jordan Springs & Surrounds Women’s Community Group JS-WCG@outlook.com Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Emu Craft Market Second Saturday of the month • Nepean High School Lung Support Group Second Wednesday of each month • 4733 8926 W.S. Melanoma Support Group • 1st Monday of each month • 0431 142 911 Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 GenYQ Business Networking Six meetings per year www.genyq.com.au

Incredible art on show at St Marys Take in the work of some amazing local artists at the 5th Annual ARTWEST St Marys Art and Craft Exhibition this Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

Fine arts students, school students, artisans and craft people will be showcasing their works across a range of different artistic mediums. Guests will also have the chance to purchase an original piece, with artwork available for sale on exhibition day. This free event will be held at St Marys Community Centre Building 5 at St Marys Corner Community and Cultural Precinct.

Sunset Station Singers Singing group needs new members • 0425 223 113

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Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Wednesdays • 0407 077 143

Fun for the whole family

Orchids and tea

Take part in World Environment Sun-day, a free family festival at the Mondo Greenspace outside The Joan from 12-4pm on Sunday.

Learn all about orchids at a morning tea and talk at the Penrith Regional Gallery this Monday at 10.30am. Tickets are $15. 4735 1100.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

the western weekender Âť Friday, June 2, 2017

SHARK TANK COMING SOON CHANNEL TEN

Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS

Ê A lot has been said regarding ABC2’s coverage of the Liverpool vs Sydney FC clash last week but I have my own theory.

As with the ABC’s annual cringe worthy broadcast of the New Year’s Eve fireworks, I strongly believe the ABC do a bad job deliberately for the attention. I mean, this many people haven’t talked this much about something on the ABC since those fireworks. As they say, all publicity is good publicity! ĂŠ One of my favourite shows so far this year is looking for applicants to be part of its second series. Channel Nine has renewed ‘Travel Guides’ for a second season and is on the hunt for some fresh new travellers to join some of its returning cast. Applications must be from a group of two to four people. At least one member must be aged 21 or over, and you

must be free to travel between August and November this year. Applications close this Sunday, June 4. To apply, visit www.travelguidestv.com.au.

ĂŠ Channel Ten has confirmed entrepreneur show ‘Shark Tank’ is returning very soon. The network also revealed that, in a show first, one entrepreneur will secure a whopping $2.5 million from one of the Sharks. I’ll keep you posted on an airdate. ĂŠ After just one episode SBS is moving ‘The Island with Bear Grylls’ from Mondays to Saturdays. After pulling in just 103,000 viewers, the next episode will now air this Saturday, June 3 at 9.30pm. ĂŠ The new season of ‘Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell’ returns to the ABC on Wednesday, June 21 at 8.30pm. ‘Mad as

Hell’, which will enter its seventh season, will return with its lovable cast including Shaun Micallef, Roz Hammond, Francis Greenslade, Emily Taheny, Stephen Hall and Tosh Greenslade.

ĂŠ Popular Discovery series ‘Deadliest Catch’ is back for its 13th season this Wednesday, June 7 at 7.30pm. ĂŠ The Jim Henson Company and Netflix have announced ‘The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance’, a prequel series to the classic 1982 film, ‘The Dark Crystal’. ‘The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance’ returns to the world of Thra with an all new adventure.

When three Gelfling discover the horrifying secret behind the Skeksis’ power, they set out on an epic journey to ignite the fires of rebellion and save their world. No word yet on a release date.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Rossco’s story is far from over EMILY NEWTON

I

f you’ve ever had a conversation with Penrith legend Ross ‘Rossco’ Hutchison, you know he’s lived a prosperous, meaningful life.

With stories from careers in television, choreography and cabaret that could fill a dozen life times, his story has been immortalised in his biography, The Sky is Not the Limit written by Maggie Richardson.

Despite his outgoing and whimsical persona, Mr Hutchison is a humble and shy man who has been blown away by the book’s reception.

“I’ve had an amazing career, for one little bloke, I look back and even I’m amazed,” he said.

“I think, how did one little bloke get to do all the things that book represents?

And there’s still far more to come.”

From dancing in front of the Queen and Prince Phillip, to having a move he created still performed in gymnastics at the Olympics to this day, there’s not much Mr Hutchison hasn’t done.

“I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth, I battled my way through life,” he said.

“I’ve never backed off, I’ve grabbed opportunity with both hands to hopefully do the best job I could possibly do.”

His passion for performance first began when, at only four-years-old, he marched on to centre stage and took over someone else’s show.

“I don’t know what motivated me to get up there, but there I was, in the middle of someone else’s concert in centre stage singing ‘Goodbye Little Yellow Bird’ and the place went bananas for me,” he laughed.

He doesn’t have a bad bone in his body, but his outpourings of love and integrity have left him vulnerable to some “very unkind people” in the past.

“You stick your head above the trenches and every bugger wants to have a shot,” he said.

But his jolly spirit is never diminished as he is one of the best people you could ever meet, awarded Penrith’s Citizen of the Year for 2017.

With a production company currently looking at turning his life into a film, Rossco’s story is still only at the beginning.

The Sky is Not the Limit – Talent is Only the Beginning, is available to buy now and can be ordered from most book stores.

ln times of crisis, you can give Please donate now salvos.org.au | 13 SALVOS 58

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MUSIC Pete Murray Camacho

Fifty Shades Darker Rated MA

Slip into a darker shade of grey with ‘Fifty Shades Darker’ on DVD and Blu-ray.

Based on the best-selling book series by E.L James, the film is a follow up to the 2015 hit ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’, which grossed over $560 million globally.

A cautious Ana Steele (Dakota Johnson) is lured back into a relationship with Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) when he agrees to her demands for a new arrangement.

As trust and stability begins to develop

between the pair, and Christian faces up to his inner demons, their relationship is threatened by shadowy figures from Christian’s past who are determined to ruin their chance at a future together.

Joining the cast for this much-anticipated sequel is Oscar winner Kim Basinger, along with ‘Hannibal’ star Hugh Dancy and Aussie Bella Heathcote.

‘Fifty Shades Darker’ wasn’t very well received but judge for yourself!

CINEMA Wonder Woman

Popular Byron Bay singersongwriter Pete Murray is back with his latest release ‘Camacho’.

The album sees the acclaimed solo artist exploring new sounds, including tracks that feature loops and beats.

‘Camacho’ has already spawned the lead single ‘Take Me Down’, which Pete worked on with Grammy Award-winning mixer, songwriter and producer Eric J. Dubowsky, who has worked with Flume and Chet Faker.

This is Pete’s sixth studio album and his first release since 2011 album ‘Blue Sky Blue’.

Grab your copy now!

Rated M

It’s one of the most talked about DC Comics film releases of the last few years and now audiences can check out the final product with the release of ‘Wonder Woman’ this week.

Before becoming Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) she was Diana, princess of the Amazons and an unconquerable warrior.

On the island paradise where she was raised, Diana meets American pilot Steve Trevor (Chris Pine), who informs her of the conflict that’s happening in the outside world.

Diana feels she can help stop the threat and decides to leave her home for the first time to fight alongside men in a war to end all wars.

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In the process, Diana will discover the full extent of her powers and uncover her destiny.

Along with Gadot and Pine the film also stars Robin Wright, David Thewlis and Ewen Bremner.

‘Wonder Woman’ marks the first origin story for a female heroine and the first Marvel or DC movie to be made by a female director.

Early reviews have praised the film and Gadot’s performance, suggesting that ‘Wonder Woman’ lives up to the hype.

‘Wonder Woman’ is currently screening at Hoyts Penrith. For more information on session times or to purchase tickets, visit www.hoyts.com.au.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

creative A U

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sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au 4722 2998

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crossword ACROSS 1. Zodiac crustacean 4. Forces 8. To ... his own 11. Gag 13. One Direction member, ... Horan 15. Stallions & ...

17. Bushranger, ... Kelly 18. Islamic governors 20. The conscious mind 21. Suspect’s defence 24. Ball dresses 27. Limit (price rises) 28. Knowing 30. Remove from washingline 31. Attired 33. Not genuine 34. Sagging 35. Ancient Peruvian 36. Nobleman 39. Halted 42. Quizzed 44. Curdless milk fl uid 45. Rubs with emery 46. Bank vault 48. Bloodier (steak) 49. Dwindled 50. Unchanged (2,2) 52. Stitched 54. Actress, ... Paquin 55. Roof overhangs 56. Abhor 57. Silk band 60. Regrettably 62. Calculating frame 65. Hides 67. First Pope 69. Sloped (ceiling) 70. Chasm 72. Edible tuber 73. Fell ill 75. Stringed instrument 77. Formerly named 79. Mouth sore 81. Irish Republican Army (1,1,1) 82. Sound 84. Finished 85. Evaporate (3,2) 86. Fencing blade 87. Smiles aff ectedly 88. Scarlet & crimson

Last week’s solution

DOWN 1. Happen, ... to pass 2. Archery missile 3. Honeycomb builder 4. Spiced Indian tea 5. Disruptive periodic climate pattern (2,4) 6. Obtained by sponging 7. Skiing surface 8. Deciduous tree 9. Wonderland character 10. Clasp 12. Russian rulers 14. Fable writer 16. Encore!

19. Plane detector 22. Manoeuvring space 23. Dislodges 25. Female monster 26. November Rain group, Guns ... (1’,5) 29. Native American tribesmen 32. Adios!

35. Wow (audience) 37. Amphitheatre centre 38. Easily-held canines 40. Weird 41. Scandinavians 42. Stated further 43. Arrives (of day) 44. Shoulder scarves 47. Daydream 51. Big game trek 52. Tie 53. Hoodwink 54. TV reception pole 58. Horrify 59. Beret or trilby 61. Donkeys 63. Facial hair 64. Brutality 65. Evolved into 66. Black wood 68. Function host 71. Shoot from cover 72. Christmas 74. Schoolboys 76. Pot tops 78. Snake-like fi sh 80. East-northeast (1,1,1) 83. Belonging to us

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Sudoku brought to you by Emerson’s Envirocare 1800 600 760 www.emersonenvirocaresydney.com

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

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life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Mars is charging through your home zone, until July 20. Which encourages you to be more proactive about domestic matters, relationships and household chores. Then Friday’s Full Moon encourages you to visualise your dreams and then act on them. As Corin Nemec says, “Never let life impede on your ability to manifest your dreams. Dig deeper into your dreams, believe that anything is possible, and make it happen”.

your horoscopes

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Venus is vamping through your sign, so you’re keen to flirt up a storm or call in a few old favours. It’s also a terrific time to indulge in Taurean passions like cooking, decorating, renovating, gardening, music or craft projects. Attached Bulls – things could get hot and heavy on Friday night, when the Full Moon invigorates your intimacy zone. Singles – you’re in a hurry to find a partner but be patient.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

With your ruler Mercury moving into your sign are you being the real you?

Or are you living your life according to other people’s expectations? Heed the wise words of movie great Judy Garland: “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else”. Friday night’s Full Moon urges you to focus on a rickety close relationship. Don’t worry if you’re going over old ground.

Joanne Madeline Moore

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Weekly posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2017

No side-stepping Crabs! Dynamic Mars is now charging through your sign (until July 20). So strive to be extra kind, compassionate and proactive as you initiate ideas, launch passion projects and make progress in creative new directions.

With the Full Moon activating your work and daily routine zone, chances are you’ll be burning the midnight oil later in the week.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Tuesday is a fabulous day to put plans in place to follow your true destiny. The more adventurous the path is, the better.

You’re also in the mood to socialise up a storm and pamper yourself, as you engage in compatible conversations and enjoy life’s little luxuries. Don’t assume you have all the answers. You have much to learn from others. The Full Moon urges you to pay attention to the wise words that come out of the mouths of babes!

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Friday’s fiery Full Moon promises an action-packed week. Your motivation and energy levels will be set on high … and so will your impatience. Saturn cautions you to be less hasty and a lot more strategic, as you steer clear of quick-fixes and instead, plan for the long-term. Good things will definitely come to smart Sagittarians who learn to wait. As Prince wisely noted, “Sometimes it takes years for a person to become an overnight success”.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Mercury is now moving through your career zone, until June 21. So – if you want to get ahead – strive to work smarter (not just harder). And, if you choose to take on a professional challenge, then you’ll find the benefits will far outweigh the difficulties. When it comes to a complicated family matter, avoid quick fixes. Instead, be patient and do all the research that’s required.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

With Venus and Mars in your relationship zones, it’s time to make romantic and platonic love a major priority. Your motto is from Franklin P. Jones: “Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile”. On Friday and Saturday, lift your nose from the daily routine grindstone and take a look within.

Indulge in some quiet contemplation, as the Moon stimulates your spiritual zone.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Communicating well with others is the key to a satisfying week. But don’t get carried away and exaggerate your ability to contribute. It’s much better to under-promise and over-deliver! The Full Moon also highlights your kind and charitable nature. So it’s a terrific time to get involved in volunteer work (especially within your local community) or lend a hand to a friend, relative or neighbour who’s in need.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Tuesday is terrific for love, romance, relationships, education and/or social media. Lady Luck is definitely on your side as you make positive changes and accept exciting new challenges that come your way. Later in the week your independent, rebellious Aquarian spirit is activated by the fiery Full Moon, when you feel adventurous and do the exact opposite of what’s expected. Do what’s right for you.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week professional luck is waiting in the wings via extra business, a new job, an innovative idea, an unexpected offer or a surprise connection. So use your substantial Scorpio networking skills to drum up support, and don’t be afraid to ask others for help when it’s required.

Friday’s Full Moon favours financial matters … as long as you have been scrupulous with facts and figures.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

your

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Are you bored to bits with your job? This week the Full Moon (and Saturn) stir up your career zone, so some Fish will feel frustrated and frazzled with work (or lack of work). Be careful what you wish for – ambitious aspirations are fine but you also need to keep your feet on the ground. Other Pisceans will be given the opportunity to lead and/or influence others in some way. Don’t waste it!

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

your

money

Others can have a big impact on your retirement plans Kids moving back home?

There can be impacts on your finances if your family situation changes...

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

When planning our finances, we often underestimate some of the influences that can negatively impact our best laid plans, especially as we approach retirement.

The situation of our family members can greatly affect our own situation, and trying to manage this is referred to as intergenerational planning.

It is more and more common to see children staying at home longer or returning home, sometimes with their own family.

Elderly parents often become our responsibility. This has some wonderful benefits socially, most retired couples cherish this time with their parents, children and/or grandchildren (most of the time anyway), there are however financial consequences.

When an elderly parent moves in with you, there are a raft of potential financial planning issues for both the parties.

The cost of living is likely to change for both parties, there is likely to be Centrelink consequences and it is possible that preparations for an aged care facility might be required.

If the parent has sold or is selling their

home, there are a number of issues that need to be addressed.

It is common to see the elderly parent contribute to an extension, granny flat or alike; in itself this is a strategy that has merit. This may reduce the assessable assets, improve living arrangements for both parties and, in general, makes some sense. There are provisions that need to accompany this strategy. It is necessary to ensure that an elderly parent has some certainty that they will retain either the right to remain living with their child or have some recourse to recoup their contribution.

Although no one has any intention of leaving their parents out in the cold, there are a number of events that can have potentially disastrous results. Things like divorce, death and unforeseen financial issues can all result in the parent losing their living arrangements and the funds they contributed.

Becoming financially responsible for your children and grandchildren can alter retirement plans substantially.

Having your children come home but be mostly financially independent is going to have a moderate effect on your finances.

If, however, they become dependent on you, this can be an issue.

The most likely way that your children (or grandchildren) can become reliant on you is due to death or serious illness.

These are insurable events; making sure that your children and partners have adequate insurances can protect you from this financial burden. It is becoming more common for parents to actually take out insurance on their kids’ behalf to prevent financial risk.

Intergenerational planning is complicated and wide ranging.

I’ve just touched on a few issues here, but the point I’m trying to make is that those around us can greatly affect our own plans and being aware of this and developing contingency plans gives us the best chance of the retirement we imagine.

The Week - Podcast Now reading your favourite local newspaper is just the beginning.

Join us every Saturday for ‘The Week’ - an engaging new podcast covering the week that was, and the week that will be, in Penrith.

New edition available every Saturday from 9am at westernweekender.com.au.

Also hear the show on Vintage FM from 8am Saturdays.

Contact us today sales@westernweekender.com.au • (02) 4761 3225 62

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look

How to get the best results from your makeup routine We all want our makeup to deliver results, but there’s things you can do to help it along...

Alyce Madden For the latest trends follow @westfieldpenrith on Instagram

Spending precious time in the morning getting ready for the day with our ritual makeup routines can be an everyday occurrence for some of us.

No matter how much you like to apply and wear, be it a little or a lot, you are definitely hoping it lasts all day.

Lucky there are a few tricks to make sure you are reaching for a coffee instead of the powder brush on your lunch break!

Polish Skin prep is key and as the old saying goes ‘the better your skin the better your makeup’. At least twice a week include an exfoliant after your cleanser at night time. This ensures all dead skin cells are buffed away and you have a smooth surface.

Moisturise Even if you have slightly oily skin a moisturiser will add the right amount of hydration underneath your makeup to keep from fine lines appearing during the day. Foundations can dry your skin out as it sets and wears, so a good moisturiser underneath is definitely important.

Prime There are all sorts of makeup primers

for different skin types, they all have the same purpose though and that’s to help makeup pigments wear true to colour and last longer on your skin. Primer will lock in your moisturiser and create the perfect base for your other products. At Westfield Penrith, Myer stocks the brand Benefit – I love the POREfessional primer. A sooth-

ing lightweight balm to minimise the appearance of pores and anywhere else you want smoother skin. Just smooth on and watch the clever blurring affect give you instant silky skin. A primer for eyeshadow that will help stop creasing as well as make your eyeshadow pop, try a Mac Paint Pot in the colour Painterly.

Foundation choice There are so many on the market to choose from with different colours, finishes and textures. Look out for long wearing formulas, these can be picked out from the bunch with branding terms like ‘stay put’ and ‘24 hour wear’. Australis has an amazing foundation called Don’t Sweat It, a water resistant, hydrating, creamy foundation for medium to full coverage that will go the distance.

Powder Use a light dusting of translucent powder over your foundation and concealer, especially liquids, as this helps to set everything in place and stop it from moving.

Finishing spray A spritz of finishing spray makes all the difference in makeup still looking good at the end of the day with fewer touch ups.

Keeping colours vibrant and preventing creasing, watch as your applied powder and foundation instantly melds into your skin and transforms into a more luminous finish, locking everything in for an ongoing ‘just-applied’ look.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

your

food

New dining destinations thrill foodies in Penrith Penrith has grown up as far as its restaurant scene is concerned, with a number of exciting new places to eat or grab a few drinks...

Kate Reid Nutritionist kate.reid@ westernweekender.com.au @kate_reid6

Over the last couple of years, Penrith’s dining scene has been given a much needed shake up.

The trend shows no sign of slowing down either, with more dining establishments opening their doors over the last few months.

This week we take a look at some of the newest faces.

The Bavarian and Fratelli Famous (pictured) – Westfield Penrith This joint venue offers the perfect solution when your dining party just can’t agree on what to eat.

On the Fratelli Famous side diners can choose from a range of signature pizzas, or get creative with the ‘build your own pizza’ option.

Meanwhile, The Bavarian offers German classics like schnitzel and pork knuckle, along with staples like burgers and hot dogs.

Wash it all down with a selection of craft and German beers on tap.

The Shack – 12 The Crescent, Penrith Health conscious foodies are in heaven

with the opening of The Shack Organic Wholefood Market and Cafe.

The menu caters to a range of dietary requirements with plenty of paleo, vegan and gluten-free options on the menu.

The Shack seems to be winning over the locals, with the cafe becoming a popular weekend dining spot.

Mamata – Shop 8, 92-112 Henry Street, Penrith Continuing the health theme is Mamata cold press juice and salad bar, tucked away on Henry Street.

Along with a range of juice and salad options, diners can also pick up warm treats like toast topped with pesto chicken, or a turmeric latte.

If you’re feeling like something sweet there’s a selection of raw vegan cakes, plus the ever popular smoothie bowls.

The Union Bar – 542 High Street, Penrith After the success of their restaurant and cafe, The Union has expanded its dining empire once again with the opening of Penrith’s first small bar.

The Union Bar follows on with the Spanish theme, offering guests tapas and a selection of cocktails and wines, plus beer on tap.

With a maximum capacity of 20 people, it’s the perfect place to spend a cosy winter night.

It could even be a great ‘first date’ location!

Gelato Messina – coming soon It looks like Penrith will get a taste of some of Sydney’s favourite gelatos with award-winning Gelato Messina set to open its doors on Riley Street at Westfield in the next few months.

WINE LIST

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www.happyhourmedia.com.au

t would be easy to dismiss Chester Osborn as simply an extrovert — as someone who wears the loudest of shirts and has shown the flamboyance to match that of his famous father d’Arry and come out at least equal on the personality front.

And he’s certainly done that, while at the same time presiding over the creation of one of Australia’s broadest range of wine labels — and definitely the most lavishly named.

Think the Stephanie the Gnome with Rose-Tinted Glasses Shiraz Sangiovese or The Witches Berry Chardonnay or The Broken Fishplate Sauvignon Blanc, and you’ll get my drift.

But in doing and being all that, Chester has also shown himself to be a highly skilled and sensitive winemaker.

In just over 30 years, he has taken a line-up of mostly average full-bodied dry reds and turned it into a portfolio of elegant wines — red, white and sparkling — that can stand tall among those anywhere in the world.

And, believe me, that’s quite an achievement.

Chester has just released the 2014 vintages of his three Icon series wines — the Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon, the Dead Arm Shiraz and the Ironstone Pressings Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre.

Some people will quibble at their $65 price tags, and many won’t be able to afford them, but who can afford a Roller or a top-of-the-line Merc? They’re at prices that are quite normal for top quality in today’s wine world. So if you have some cash to splash, give these delightful drops a taste today!

JOHN ROZENTALS

health

What to look for when buying a new pair of running shoes Shoe shopping can be a difficult task to navigate, but we’ve got some expert tips to help guide you into the best pair of shoes for your feet...

Benjamin Bishop Podiatrist OnePoint Health 4732 5188 onepointhealth.com.au

HCC 105 FEMALE 3 MONTHS OLD $254.10. AVAILABLE FOR SALE ON THE 23.5.17.

FOUND IN AGNES BANKS

How a gorgeous kitten like this has been at the shelter for 3 weeks looking for a home we don’t know! She is a little shy but very sweet and she would like to call your home hers today, so please come and meet her...

Often we follow the current trends when it comes to footwear, but beyond the looks, do you know exactly what you should be looking for in a running shoe?

Do you need a motion control shoe with rearfoot control or perhaps a neutral cushioned shoe?

To stay healthy, fit, and injury-free, it is important to invest in a good pair of running shoes that are suitable to you.

Follow these tips to make sure you get the pair that you need.

Don’t skimp $180+ sounds a lot for running shoes, but the investment is worth it. Consider this: Whatever your new shoes cost, it is likely less money and time you’d spend seeing the doctor because of an injury.

See the experts Visit a podiatrist or a specialty running store before you buy. In order to buy running shoes suitable to you, it is important you know your foot-type and running style first. A shoe suitable for one person may not always be suitable for another person.

HCC 114 FEMALE 1 YEAR $254.10 AVAILABLE FOR REHOMING 10.6.17 FOUND IN SOUTH WINDSOR

Size yourself up Don’t assume you know your size, we should get our feet measured each time we buy new footwear.

Our feet change over time and one model’s fit can be significantly different from another’s.

While standing, you should have a thumbnail’s space between the tip of the shoe and the end of your longest toe.

Always take them for a test run around the shop. A minor discomfort in the shop will be exaggerated during a long run.

Bring what you’ve been wearing Take along the shoes, socks, and any

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This girl is someone’s pet, she has been well looked after and should not be at the shelter.

Her owners have not come yet though and if they don’t she will be ready for Adoption next week.

PCC 325 DALMATION X MALE 1 YEAR $360.00 AVAILABLE FOR REHOMING Boof has been surrendered by 31.5.17 FOUND IN JORDAN his owners and is looking for SPRINGS KENNEL 78 a new home. Sadly they had to move and couldn’t find a rental that would allow Boof to go with them. He is a very bouncy happy and friendly dog that would make a great family dog!

This big goofball is very much still a pup in the way he bounds around and plays, he is a very happy natured boy that has a lot of love to give a new family. He will benefit from some basic training and having a family that includes him in their daily lives.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

your

inserts that you normally use. That way you can make a realistic evaluation of how well the new shoe fits your feet.

Rotate Shoes should be replaced every 300-500km or every 12 to 18 months.

Keep track of the date that you bought them by writing it on the innersole.

Don’t be a trendsetter Just because they look good doesn’t mean they are good.

There is an array of footwear to choose from these days, and it can be tempting to follow the current trend; don’t shop by price or by fashion!

PCC 299 STAFFY MALE 2YRS $360.00 AVAILABLE 23.5.17 FOUND IN ST MARYS KENNEL 87 Jet really enjoyed himself while spending time with us, you can see that he was once someone’s companion and wants to have that life again. has a nice, happy personality and would suit most homes.

PCC 326 BORDER COLLIE X STAFFY MALE 3YRS $360.00 AVAILABLE 25.5.17 KENNEL 54 SURRENDERED Boss has been surrendered by his owners as they have no time for him, longs to be adopted and made part of a family once again. Boss is a very happy, energetic boy that would love a daily walk and interaction with his family on the lounge of a night.

We always recommend bringing your own dogs to the shelter to meet any of the shelter dogs.

The shelter is in need of toys, blankets (not doonas or pillows though), treats and coats for large dogs. Please contact the shelter if you can help.

Our contact details are:

facebook.com/FriendsHCAS twitter.com/HawkesburyPdVol fohcas.com

Shelters contact details are:

Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756 ph: 02 4560 4644 companionanimal@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au WW28428

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Friday, June 2, 2017 ÂŤ the western weekender

your

How to make sure your new puppy gets on with your kids

pets

How you treat a dog early in its life is critical to its long-term behaviour...

Nicole McMillan Practice owner of Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic and the Western Sydney Cat Hospital

Recently we started discussing children and dogs and the signs to look for that indicate a dog is feeling uncomfortable around children.

This week we will discuss preparing puppies for children and how to raise a puppy that interacts well with kids.

To accomplish a good relationship between pets and children, there should be frequent positive interactions for the young pup to meet children during its early months of life.

Puppies are most social and receptive to learning up to 12 weeks of age; the experiences and interactions they have during this time can make a lifelong impression.

This means that if a young child accidentally hurts a young puppy, the puppy may be scared or act inappropriately towards children all its life.

Ongoing positive experiences between kids and puppies are essential to maintain healthy social relationships.

Puppies should be introduced to children when they are calm, and treats should be used to facilitate introductions; this allows the puppy to build a positive association with children.

Positive interactions at a young age help prevent the development of fear, avoid-

ance behaviour and aggression when the pet becomes older.

All family members should make a point of gently and positively handling the puppy in ways that a child might touch it.

This may mean that you give the puppy treats while touching the tail, ears, body as well as during grooming, nail trimming and teeth brushing.

This will allow the puppy to become used to handling and not become fearful.

Any type of physical punishment, threats with the hand or forceful interactions should be avoided.

Pets must learn that the human hand

is friendly and not to be feared; if pets associate hand movement with threats or discomfort, they can bite when a child moves a hand towards them as they may associate it with a previous negative interaction.

Puppy classes that encourage family attendance can be a great way for puppies to interact with other dogs, people and children in a controlled environment.

However, it is important that puppies are not overwhelmed so they do not develop fear or avoidance behaviour towards other animals or people.

See you next week.

Coreen Avenue

Veterinary Clinic

Quality Loving Care

Western Sydney

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religion

Have you ran into any pigs lately? Faith can help you

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

your

As usual, Reverend John has plenty of wisdom to offer this week...

Rev John Lavender www.glenmorepark anglican.com.au and on Facebook

A bloke called Frank Muir once told this story. You may’ve heard it.

“I was driving down the street, enjoying the drive, when suddenly around the corner, came an old Leyland 1100. It was on the wrong side of the road, weaving everywhere. It missed my car by the smallest margin. It was being driven by a woman. As it lurched past, the woman poked her head out the window, screaming at me, “PIG!” I drove on thinking to myself, “Typical!” and as I turned the corner I ran smack, bang, into the pig!”

It’s easy to think the worst of people, making wrong conclusions, especially when people are trying to warn us. It’s also easy to do that with God. Some people don’t like God telling us how to live and what to do.

We can be like the child, who stamps their foot and shouts, “You can’t tell me what to do!” We want to live our life our way.

Yet God is just trying to stop us running into pigs.

His guidelines for living are designed so we can live life to the full and not mess it up.

In the New Testament book of John, Jesus says, “I have come so that they may

your education

Rob Ollis

Master Coaching Penrith 4722 3072

Believing in your children and encouraging them to achieve high goals is key to ensuring they do well in their studies...

Maybe we underestimate the talent of our children.

The human brain appears overendowed. It used to be an often-quoted statistic that we only use 10 per cent of our potential brainpower. The more psychologists have learnt in the last 10 years however, the less likely they are to dare to attempt to quantify our brain potential. The only consistent conclusion is that the proportion of our potential brainpower that we use is probably nearer four per cent than 10 per cent.

Most of us, then, appear to let 96 per cent of our mental potential lie unused. But it doesn’t have to be so.

– Colin Rose, Accelerated Learning.

Good in theory, but does it work in practice? I believe that children will achieve at the level that they realistically expect to achieve.

Jeremy’s story confirms this.

In Year 4 Jeremy was promoted to the accelerated class in his school.

The first topic he faced was long division, at which he failed.

After repeated failures he was demoted from the accelerated class with the words that ‘he would never succeed in maths’.

These words were prophetic, by the time Jeremy reached Year 8 in high school he was in the bottom 20 per cent of his grade.

Through timely intervention, Jeremy learnt long division, realised that he could do maths and was first in his school in Extension 2 mathematics in the HSC. How does this apply to me as a parent?

If you want your children to achieve at school, believe in them and show them that you believe by offering genuine praise and encouragement.

Your belief, your praise and your encouragement are the most potent forces acting for the success of your children.

Food for thought!

(Answer to last week’s puzzle: 1/3).

life, and have to the full”. He continues, “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me… I lay down my life for the sheep… they will listen to my voice”.

Have you been running into pigs lately?

Why not look to and follow the guide-

lines of the one who created life. Get to know Jesus.

Listen to his voice as he speaks to us from the Bible.

You might find your life changed forever!

Have a good week!

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Suite 9, Allen Arcade 140-142 Henry Street, Penrith Ph Rob 4722 3072 www.mastercoachingpenrith.com WW28196

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

in home improvement WW28228

E

MERSON’S NVIROCARE PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

When selling your home a new kitchen or kitchen renovation can definitely appeal to prospective buyers and be useful to the agents as a selling tool. It is also an effective way to bring some life into an older home.

It is important to consider the current style of the home when deciding on the budget and whether to go with modern, traditional or provincial themes and when deciding a suitable colour pallet.

A useful guide to appeal to a wider range of buyers is to choose neutral or earthy tones for your splashbacks and benchtops, and that way either yourself or the prospective buyer can always add a splash of colour or darker tones in your accessories or appliances.

You really can’t go wrong with classic white doors as they are versatile to any colour pallet and give the space a clean and fresh feel.

Of all the pests that enter your home the most unwanted is the subterranean termite. Each year termites damage more homes than both fire and storms combined. 1 in 3 homes will be attacked by termites. As termites forage for food below the soil, they often gain access to a home from the sub-floor area, slab edge or timber structure attached to the house.

The barrier treatment should be reapplied every five to 10 years at the client’s expense to ensure maximum protection to the property. As no property can ever be totally safe from termite attack a twelve (12) monthly maintenance program is recommended to continue the EMERSON’S ENVIROCARE service warranty. This warranty covers a full inspection of the property and a written report is given notifying the client on the conditions of the subfloor, roof void, and interior timbers for the presence of termites.

Decks have become an extremely popular, cost effective way to add living space to a home. Decks look magnificent when first installed but many owners forget to do the basics afterward and end up dissatisfied a few years down the track. Maintenance of the deck surface is critical to prevent discoloration and prolong functionality. A tell-tale sign that a deck needs attention is water pooling on the surface not rolling away. Maintaining a deck at least annually is ideal and should include: 1. Clean using a high pressure hose nozzle, thoroughly to completely remove any built up grime and debris. Apply a deck cleaning solution and brush over with a broom or scrubbing brush 2. Seal the deck using a good quality sealer. Always seal when there is no rain predicted as often it takes 24-48 hours to dry completely.

3. Stain the deck using a clear or lightly stained finish.

Leaking taps in the home can not only waste water, it can also cost you money in the long run.

A simple water leak can potentially waste around 260 litres of water per year, that will immediately increase your water bill and is wasting a precious resource. If you have a leaking tap, call a plumber right away, it may be as simple as needing the washer changed, but in some cases you may need new tap wear, but don’t worry, there are many options of new tap wear to choose from. You may like to choose a water saving option and go for taps that have a device installed that restrict the water flow so you use less water every time. Another great idea may be to change all the tap wear in your house to match, sometimes changing the tap wear may add a more modern and fresher look to your bathrooms, laundry and kitchen.

E

MERSON’S NVIROCARE PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

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There is no such thing as a non slip tile! There are many factors that contribute to a slip and fall, for example the building design, contaminates on the tile, was the person running, age etc Tiles are rated according to their contribution to the risk of the slip or fall. These ratings are made after testing in particular conditions. Seek advice from your tile retailer if you require some slip resistance. However the application and use of tiles is the end user’s responsibility in managing the risk of slips and falls.

There is also the issue of clean-ability. Tiles displaying a higher level of slip resistance may be more difficult to clean. It is always best to test a sample of tile for ease of cleaning under the conditions they will be used.

PREVENTION OF FROST DAMAGE TO PLANTS • Mulch the root area of evergreens, conifers, tender shrubs and tender perennials with a thick layer of organic matter to prevent the ground becoming frozen.

• Move container –grown plants to a sheltered part of the garden in cold weather and provide some extra protection by wrapping the pot in bubble wrap.

• Leave the previous seasons growth on more tender plants until spring, for example penstemon, as this provides valuable frost protection during the winter.

• Tender plants can be lifted or moved to a more sheltered position or greenhouse. If this is not practical then protect them by wrapping examples include bananas and tree ferns.

• Lift tender perennials such as dahlias, cannas, pelargoniums and fuchsias before the first frost.

To ensure maximum efficiency of your air conditioner the most important maintenance task is to routinely replace or clean its filters.

Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly. Air bypassing obstructed airflow can carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil which can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by up to 15%.

The filter location for central air conditioners is generally located somewhere along the return duct’s length, which can be in walls, ceilings or in the air conditioner itself. Room air conditioners have a filter mounted in the grill that faces the room.

Filters are available in a variety of types and efficiencies and some can be reusable and others must be replaced. It is best to clean or replace the system’s filter every month or two and even more frequently if the unit is in constant use.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

in home improvement

There is nothing worse than mouldy walls but, it doesn’t need to be a costly, time-consuming exercise to get them looking new again. Here is an easy guide to addressing your mould issues at home, to ensure that it never returns 1. CLEAN: Start by killing existing mould by applying a quality mould cleaner with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly with water. After killing the mould, wash walls with sugar soap to ensure that the surface is clean and grease free, ready for painting. Rinse again with water.

2. PREPARE: Repair and sand any damaged sections of the surface. If required use a quality mould kill primer, prior to painting.

3. PAINT: Simply paint two coats of New Look Mould & Mildew Proof Kitchen & Bath paint in the colour of your choice. Wait two hours between coats to dry.

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

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

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Home Improvements

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

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Design, Manufacture and Installation for: - kitchens - wardrobes - bars - vanities - laundries - home office

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POSITIONS VACANT

PUBLIC NOTICES

O’HARE, CHRIS

WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Born in Scotland & formerly of Penrith, NSW. Passed away in Hobart, Tasmania on Saturday 20th May 2017. Aged 65.

Loving son of Frank & Margaret (both deceased), brother of John (dec), much loved brother of Margie (O’Hare) Brouwer, husband Bill, uncle to Michael, Martyn (dec), Michelle, Kaylie & all of our families.

Loving husband of Robyn.

Chris was loved by so many both in Australia & family overseas. Back with Mum, Dad & John.

Celebration of his Life on Saturday June 3rd in Tasmania. Privately cremated. WW28391

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Emus still searching for first win p.78 NATHAN TAYLOR

ocal fighter Arlene Blencowe will travel to New York in August for her first major Bellator fight since re-signing with the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) company last week.

The Jamisontown mother of two recently signed a new two-year, multi fight deal with Bellator, which will see her go head to head with Irish newcomer Sinead Kavanagh on August 25.

Blencowe said she is looking forward to going up against Kavanagh, who is trained by John Kavanagh, the coach of UFC superstar Connor McGregor.

“The exciting thing about this fight is that Sinead has the same fight background as me – she’s a boxer, who switched to MMA,” Blencowe told the Western Weekender.

“I think this will be a great fight for me to showcase my striking skills.”

Blencowe’s most recent Bellator bout was in October last year when she lost by majority decision to Canadian Julia Budd.

The 34-year-old said she was considering making the move to the much larger UFC brand before going with her heart and staying loyal to Bellator.

“Re-signing with Bellator was definitely the right decision,” she said.

“In the end, it came down to loyalty and Bellator were the ones to give me an opportunity to fight internationally when my record wasn’t crash hot.

“They took a chance on me, welcomed me into their family and have been very supportive ever since.”

In between training sessions at Lions High Performance Centre in St Marys, Blencowe recently started a unique personal training business called Mums & Bubs Fitness.

Held every Friday morning in Glenmore Park, Blencowe trains busy mums who often have their hands full looking after their young ones.

“Mothers play such an important role in their children’s lives, and I thought what better way to inspire kids than to see their mums training in front of them,” she said.

“This makes it easier for busy mums.”

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Arlene gets back in the ring Local fighter Arlene Blencowe has started a new training business for busy mums. Photo: Melinda Jane

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Meet The President

OzTag’s boom in popularity presents Penrith OzTag President Jamie Howard says improvements to playing fields and lighting are required for NATHAN TAYLOR

The Weekender’s Meet The President series introduces you to the people in charge of our local sporting clubs. This week, we chat with Penrith OzTag President Jamie Howard...

How long have you been the President of Penrith OzTag for?

Since 2010.

How long have you been involved with OzTag for and what were your roles?

I have been involved since 2010, always as President.

Explain what your role entails?

Providing leadership and direction to others, and ensuring we provide a quality service to our members. It also entails doing things to make everyone else’s job easier. With the massive growth we have had over the past seven years, a lot of work is required in grading teams and monitoring team performances during the early parts of the season.

It’s very difficult with the number of teams to get teams in the right grades all the time. A lot of time and effort goes

into trying to make sure this is as best as it can be and then monitoring and making adjustments as necessary.

Another key component of the role is socialising with the members to gather feedback on the competition. The competition is run for our members, so it is critical that we understand what they want and any issues they have.

Tell me about your OzTag background, how did you fall in love with the sport?

I fell into it due to political issues between Touch and OzTag back in 2009/2010.

Prior to that, both sports operated under the Touch banner but, in 2009, OzTag decided to go its own way and stand alone as a separate entity. I had been involved in Touch on and off since the late 1980s. My parents have been administering Touch and/or OzTag in Penrith for the past 30 years and, when the split between Touch and OzTag came about, I was approached to get involved. The love of the sport has grown over the years, mainly due to the people. We have a great group of people who play, support and officiate OzTag. What are some of the challenges/issues facing OzTag locally?

Most of the challenges are associated

with the facilities used on a weekly basis.

While we are lucky that we play at a single venue, it is also difficult due to the size of the venue. With 18 OzTag fields at the one location, trying to get them maintained and improved is challenging. The quality of the facilities, both the playing surface and the lights, is an ongoing issue. We are one of a small number of sports that plays their competitions on weeknights under lights and the quality of the fields and lighting is mediocre at best.

We are trying to work with Penrith Council and the other users of the fields but there are challenges in doing so. We are not talking about two or three football fields but the equivalent of nine full size rugby league fields. So when we want to do something, it is of a large scale.

We also face competition from other sports for the use of the facilities. This is a challenge at times as we have to cap the number of teams that we can take so that other sports can also use the venue. For the past two years we have capped our Tuesday Mixed competition due to limited field availability. This forced us to move to another night to cater for demand, which has now seen the Wednesday night Mixed competition double in size in a year.

We also face the challenge of retaining

players from competition to competition.

With so many sports now available, people have a wide choice of sports to play from.

If you could improve one area of your sport on a local level, what would it be?

The key improvement for our sport would be an improvement in the playing facilities. The number one priority would be improved lighting, with the playing surface being a close second. Whilst there are always improvements we can make in administering the sport, improvements to the facilities would be the single improvement that would make the biggest impact.

Are you happy with the amount of Government funding your club receives or could you do with more financial help?

Like most sports we could always do with more financial assistance. The key area in which assistance would assist us would be in improvements to the lighting and playing surface. While Penrith Council does what they can to maintain the facilities, they do not have sufficient funding available to do it to the level required (or that the players deserve).

State Government assistance has been limited (none directly to OzTag) and is difficult to access. I believe there needs to

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difficult challenges sport to reach its full potential in the local region be better coordination between all levels of government when it comes to funding rather than the current approach.

There are always plenty of success stories about OzTag in the Weekender, what is one you are most proud of?

The main thing that we are most proud of is our reputation amongst the OzTag community. We have a reputation for being one of the best administered and professionally run associations. This has been achieved through the fantastic efforts of everyone associated with the club. From our Competition Coordinator, to the people who help administer the competition on a nightly basis, and our referees, rep coaches, managers and our committee people, everyone has contributed to building the reputation we have.

The other area in which we take much pride in is the development and growth of our representative teams. From three teams back in 2010 we have now grown to 12 teams participating at the last State Championships in which we finished 4th.

How many registered members does Penrith OzTag currently have and how do you plan to grow the game?

Last summer season we had 250 teams

playing over three nights a week, with 175 teams playing in the current Winter competition. This amounts to approximately 3500 members over the year. We have seen our Mixed competitions grow significantly over the past few years, with our Tuesday night competition being completely full for the past two years and our Wednesday Mixed competition doubling in size in the past 12 months, with over 40 teams competing this Winter.

Growth will be through continuing the professional way in which we administer the sport and always looking to areas in which we can improve.

We are also looking into potentially adding some new competitions, such as Over 30s and Under 20s, to provide some more alternatives.

Looking into your crystal ball, where do you see the sport in five years’ time?

Ideally I would like to see OzTag as being one of the most popular sports in the Penrith region. We want to retain our level of professionalism in administering the sport, by retaining members and growing other competitions. Ideally we would like to have the facilities available to cater for the demand to play OzTag, something we are unable to do right now.

Penrith OzTag President Jamie Howard at The Kingsway in St Marys

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Friday, June 2, 2017 « the western weekender

Lightning strikes Giants late in match Story continued from » p. 80 The Giants could have finished a lot higher up the ladder, resulting in a second bite of the cherry, if they had overcome the Sunshine Coast Lightning last week.

In front of a league record crowd of 11,871 fans at Qudos Bank Arena, the Giants were unable to hold out a fastfinishing Lightning outfit to lose 56-55 in the final round of the Super Netball season.

The result went down to the final seconds, with the home side finishing second best.

A clearly unhappy Fitzgerald said she was disappointed the Giants let their handy lead go so late in the game, blaming costly errors on the final result.

“We had that match in our hands and they (Lightning) called a timeout, and from there I think it was seven consecutive goals to them. It certainly shows how quickly you can win or lose a match,” she said.

“They were silly mistakes that cost us – silly passes, dropped balls, things you can’t afford to do in those types of matches.

“They’re moments you can train for but we will certainly learn from it.”

Giants Netball will battle the Collingwood Magpies at 7pm this Saturday at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre in Homebush.

RUGBY UNION

Emus still searching for first win under new coach but showing signs of improvement NATHAN TAYLOR

he Penrith Emus gave undefeated competition leaders Manly one hell of a scare last Saturday afternoon when the battling local side were down by just five points at half-time.

Yet to record a single win this season, the Emus were well in the contest against the competition heavyweights, trailing 19-14 at the break.

Despite Penrith putting in a mighty strong effort in the first half, Manly returned from the sheds determined to avoid any embarrassment and put the Emus away 52-26.

However, the Emus never gave up and added two more tries to their tally to earn themselves a well deserved bonus point.

Speaking with the Weekender, Penrith Emus coach Julian Huxley was full of praise for his committed and ever improving troops.

“We don’t have many long time supporters that come and watch our games, but there is about 10-12 guys that never miss an Emus game – they gave the team a mini standing ovation after that performance,” he said.

“This team has really earned the respect of a lot of people who thought that we

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News • Conversation • Entertainment 78

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The Penrith Emus gave Manly a real scare last weekend. Photo: Apaula Martin couldn’t improve or couldn’t get the job done. It’s really satisfying.”

While Penrith’s first quarter of the season was hard to watch, their past month has seen remarkable improvement with scorelines inching closer rather than further away.

Huxley said his side, which has remained relatively the same since the season opener, finally have the belief that they do have the ability to win games.

“There is enough evidence to suggest the boys do believe they are a good side and that they can win games,” he said.

“Yes, we are still making mistakes that we wish we didn’t but we never stop trying and that’s fantastic to see the boys playing that way.”

Penrith will travel to Coogee Oval this Saturday afternoon to face fifth-placed Randwick in Round 10 of the Shute Shield competition.

Around the grounds RUGBY: The Penrith Emus have put in one of their best performances of the season, despite going down to ladder leaders Manly 52-26 in Round 9 of the Shute Shield competition.

This Saturday afternoon the Emus will travel to Coogee Oval to battle Randwick.

AUSSIE RULES: The Penrith Rams have won back to back games, thrashing the East Coast Eagles 108-21 in Round 8 of the AFL Sydney Division 2 competition. Angus Ehrl top scored with six goals for the Rams. Penrith will aim for three straight when they take on the UTS Bats this Saturday afternoon.

Meanwhile, the Auburn-Penrith Giants have been walloped by the UNSW/ES Stingrays 48-2 in Round 8 of the AFL Sydney Premier Women’s Division competition. The Giants were so outclassed that they didn’t score a single point until the fourth term. This Saturday morning the Giants will look to bounce back when they face Macquarie University.

AFL: The in-form GWS Giants have defeated the West Coast Eagles for the first time in their history, winning 98-90 in Round 10 of the AFL. Severely down on troops, the Giants had to do it the hard way but managed to come out on top via another thrilling finish. The Giants will aim for four in a row when they tackle Essendon this Saturday

afternoon at Spotless Stadium.

NETBALL: The Panthers Opens team have lost the opening game of the new season, going down to the ERNA Hawks 55-43 in Round 1 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition.

Meanwhile, the Panthers Under 20’s team were successful in their opening game, defeating the Hawks 57-48. Both teams will take on the Sutherland Stingrays in Round 2.

SOFTBALL: Congratulations to the Glenmore Park Phantoms U15’s Girls Development team, who took out the Girls Development League Final last Sunday night.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have won back to back games, defeating the Central Coast Waves 101-95 in Round 12 of the Division 1 Youth League Men’s competition. Penrith’s Sean Weeks shot a team-high 21 points in the narrow victory. The Panthers will look for three straight when they take on the Hills Hornets this Saturday night in Penrith.

Meanwhile, Penrith’s Division 1 Youth League Women’s team went down to the Sutherland Sharks 65-63.

This weekend the Panthers will play a double-header against the Illawarra Hawks on Saturday and LiverpoolMacarthur Razorbacks on Sunday.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

the western weekender » Friday, June 2, 2017

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fter a whirlwind inaugural regular season, Giants Netball will face the Collingwood Magpies Netball Club in a sudden death Final this weekend.

After finishing third on the Super Netball ladder, the Giants will host this Saturday night’s Minor Semi Final at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre.

If the Giants are victorious, they’ll advance to the Preliminary Final to meet the loser out of the Melbourne Vixens and Sunshine Coast Lightning clash.

With the Giants’ Semi Final fixture now firmly locked in place, head coach Julie Fitzgerald said it would be business as usual this week as her side prepares for the Magpies.

“I’m big about [the fact] you train as hard as you usually do coming into Finals, so this week will be no different for us,” she said.

“We’re fortunate that [the Semi Final] will be played at home and we can have our NSW crowd behind us – they were absolutely amazing last week and we’ll need their support against the Magpies.”

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Story continues on » p. 78

The Giants are primed for the start of the Finals this week. Photo: Murray Wilkinson/Netball NSW

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