Western Weekender August 30 2024

Changing face of Council becomes clear as seven current Councillors head

for exit Councillors say goodbye

Leading into the Local Government Election, Penrith City Council has farewelled seven Councillors.

Following a Liberal Party administrative blunder, current Deputy Mayor Mark Davies, Marlene Shipley, Bernard Bratusa and Mark Rusev will not be eligible to recontest their spots at the September 14 poll.

Former Mayor Tricia Hitchen and first time Councillor Jonathan Pullen will not be recontesting their seats and Karen McKeown will not be recontesting due to her role as the State Member for Penrith.

This week, current Mayor Todd Carney farewelled the outgoing Liberal Councillors and thanked them for their service.

“Deputy Mayor Mark Davies, Councillor Mark Rusev, Councillor Bernard Bratusa and Councillor Marlene Shipley – this is not something I was expecting to do, nor is it the way it should have happened, but I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your service to

local government,” Carney said.

“The partnership we have fostered not just during this Council term, but over many years has greatly contributed to your roles and the insights you have brought to this Council.

“I have found the collaboration of Councillors to be the driving force behind the success of our city’s transformation into a vibrant and liveable city.”

Outgoing Deputy Mayor Mark Davies expressed his feelings toward his farewell from Council.

“It is true the words that you spoke tonight about… something that was unexpected and that it shouldn’t have happened,” Davies said.

“But things in life do happen that are unexpected and shouldn’t happen and you’ve got to learn to roll with the punches and you move forward.”

Davies expressed that through his career as a local politician he learned that there is more to being a Councillor than anyone thinks.

“In 2004 I was elected, and it was a bruising experience I must say, in terms of preselection, I politically went through the baptism of fire and [was] battle hardened,” Davies said.

“It was an experience but in 2004 when I was elected, I soon began to learn about local govern ment.

“I began to understand that Council wasn’t just

about roads, rates and rubbish and one of the important things I learnt was the important aspect of place making and building community and the important roles that [plays] in our city.”

Davies, during his time on Council, implemented the Our River Masterplan and has since been a strong advocate for the precinct which has seen $150 million of public and private investment. Davies also initiated changes to Council’s Property Investment Strategy to diversify the income base, which now sits at $83 million, and previously called for the introduction of policy which saw trees planted and shade structures installed across 90 local playgrounds over three years and ensured all future playgrounds would have shade.

Councillor John Thain thanked all the outgoing Councillors for their service.

“I just want to thank those Councillors I’ve served with for their input, for their dedication and their collab-

oration. But I also want to thank their partners and their family for allowing them to do the job that they’ve done on Council over that time,” he said.

Bernard Bratusa shared a teary farewell as he said goodbye to his time on Council.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to have been a councillor for this great city,” Bratusa said.

He added the people of Penrith are what made his time as a Councillor so special.

“It’s the people of this city that makes it great, it’s the people of this city that makes us special,” Bratusa said.

First time Councillor Mark Rusev thanked the community for their help through his time as a Councillor.

what they’ve talked about is a lot of things,” Fowler said.

“But if you look at them as individuals, you’ll see that each of them has a passion in some form or other… they all have a passion.

“I think that’s what makes this Council great, that each and every one of us has a passion somewhere and we participate, and we collaborate as has been said on a number of occasions and into the future I’m sure that collaboration is going to continue.”

Carney also farewelled the outgoing Councillors.

“To work with such wonderful and influential people on Council and in the community has been an honour,” Carney said.

“I thank all Councillors and all the staff at Council for their commitment to this City of Penrith,” Rusev said.

“I thank the Penrith City Council community for allowing me to be of service to them.”

Councillor Ross Fowler acknowledged all the hard work put in by the current team of Councillors.

“On reflection of what’s been said tonight, by various people,

Drowning stats a concern

Frightening drowning statistics have been revealed on the eve of the Australian summer.

The National Drowning Report 2024, released last week, revealed that there were 323 drowning deaths across Australia in the past 12 months – up 14 per cent from last year, and up 16 per cent on the 10-year average.

With greater access to the water in Penrith than ever before via Penrith Beach, experts are emphasising that no one should be complacent around water.

Though 46 per cent of these drowning deaths occurred in coastal locations, 34 per cent were in inland water locations like rivers and lakes, with another 11 per cent taking place in swimming pools.

Nepean Aquatic Centre’s Julie Sheldrake said this indicates that the threat is closer to home than you might think.

“I think it’s really important to

bring it back to local, and to realise that this can actually happen to anybody,” she said.

For Sheldrake, one of the most concerning aspects of the report was around children aged five to 14, who represented five per cent of drowning cases in the report – a 40 per cent increase compared to the 10-year average.

Sheldrake said this was believed to be caused by the pandemic, which saw children unable to engage in swimming lessons.

“COVID was around four or five years ago, and it was estimated at the time that over a million lessons were missed at swim schools around Australia during the period,” she said.

“Now, we’re seeing that five- to 14-year-old age group in real danger.”

On the flip side, there was a 25 per cent decrease on the 10-year average for those aged zero to four.

“It’s these babies that were born in COVID, many of them, and their first structured activity probably was swimming lessons, probably

their first activity that parents felt safe taking them to was swimming lessons,” she said.

For Sheldrake, this only solidifies the importance of getting your kids into swimming lessons, no matter how old they are.

“I would definitely say that swimming lessons are important, and I would actually say swimming lessons for all ages – in the younger children so that we don’t see a repeat when they become five to 14, and I would encourage all parents with five to 14-year-olds to get their children into swimming lessons and make sure they’re hitting those National Swimming and Water Safety Framework milestones and benchmarks,” she said.

And this doesn’t stop at age 14, with over 25 per cent of drowning deaths in the last year made up of people aged over 65 – a 44 per cent increase on the 10-year average – and 83 people who were born overseas.

“We do run an adult program for older people, and a lot of those people are people who were born overseas,” she said.

Sheldrake added that there are a few more things you can do to ensure everyone stays safe around the water.

“There’s fences and barri ers and gates, we need to make sure that pools are well fenced off, supervi sion is key, a lot of these drowning deaths could have been prevented through better super vision, and learning CPR,” she said.

“We’re one of the countries in the world that has the lowest rates of CPR education and people actually going and renewing annually, and I really think it takes many annual renewals for people to be confident and competent to respond.”

Carney said he looked forward to the upcoming Council and that he wishes for the collaboration to continue.

“I trust that the Councillor collaboration during this last term, continues for the good of Penrith with the next Council term,” Carney said.

“The experience each of you have taken away from being a Councillor for the City of Penrith is a momentous achievement and something for which our City is indebted to each of you – I wish you the very best and thank you so much.”

The Local Government Election will be held on Saturday, September 14 which will see at least nine new Councillors elected.

Next week: Grab your Weekender for profiles of each lead candidate ahead of the September 14 poll, to help you make your decision.

Councillor Bernard Bratusa.

Retiring Councillor Tricia Hitchen.

Councillor Marlene Shipley.

Councillor Mark Davies. EMILY CHATE

Julie Sheldrake from Nepean Aquatic Centre.

CASSIDY PEARCE

“Badgerys Creek to Marina Bay”

Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) has secured its first international airline, with Singa-

pore Airlines (SIA), confirming the premium carrier’s intention to operate at Sydney’s new 24-hour airport.

The airport at Badgerys Creek is due to open in 2026.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said at the

heart of this arrangement – the first with an international airline for WSI – was recognition of the airport’s unique scheduling opportunities that airlines, like SIA, will be able to harness into the future.

“This inaugural international

airline arrangement is a fantastic milestone for Western Sydney International Airport and reflects the positive response we’ve had from airlines, especially in regard to the unprecedented opportunities our 24-hour capability unlocks,” he said.

“Western Sydney International Airport’s late-night departure capacity, for instance, could allow Singapore Airlines’ business travellers to finish a full day’s work in Sydney, take an overnight flight and arrive in Singapore before their first morning meeting the very next day.

“Late-night departures could also allow passengers to transit more swiftly from Singapore through their award-winning Changi Airport hub to connect to one of the 125 destinations served by the Singapore Airlines Group.”

Hickey said Western Sydney International Airport was focused on delivering a smooth and simple experience for its customers, underpinned by the latest technology, which was another major drawcard for Singapore Airlines.

“Our combined international and domestic terminal will give Singapore Airlines customers a seamless transfer experience, while our

state-of-the-art baggage system and efficient design, including five-minute taxi times on the tarmac, means passengers will be able to get on their flight faster and relax and enjoy the award-winning service on board,” he said.

Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Louis Arul, welcomed the agreement.

“This is a unique opportunity to work with a greenfield airport to set a new base line for customer experience throughout an airport ecosystem,” he said.

“We are working closely with WSI to ensure that our customers will continue to enjoy the comprehensive, end-to-end, world-class experience that is synonymous with Singapore Airlines.”

This week’s agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the parties in 2023, which set the scope to explore the airport’s future functionality, customer experience, sustainability, operational efficiency, and mutual commercial opportunities.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was at the airport construction site on Tuesday morning, said it was huge news for the new airport.

“This investment will connect Badgerys Creek to Marina Bay,” he said.

“It will connect western Sydney with the world.”

TROY DODDS

Singapore Airlines will fly out of Badgerys Creek from when the new airport opens in 2026.

the western weekender

PO BOX 7105

South Penrith NSW 2750

P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255

westernweekender.com.au

facebook.com/westernweekender

@wwpenrith

@westernweekender

@westernweekender

@westernweekender

There’s many ways to get your paper each week – including via email! Visit westernweekender.com.au/getapaper to find out more.

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au

Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au

Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au

Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group

Managing Editor:

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Weekender Newsroom:

Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor @natetaylor87

Journalist: Cassidy Pearce | @cass_pearce

Journalist: Emily Chate | @chateemily

Photographer: Melinda Jane

If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au

Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Angela Jevdich, Maria Van Den Broek

To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au

Production: Ian Beard, Kacey Wilson

Administration: Amanda Coskerie, Madeline Dantier

The Western Weekender is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Law now replacing common sense

There are generally two types of people in the workforce.

For the sake of the argument, let’s call them Group A and Group B.

A Group A person is typically job focused and career driven. They’re often in the office before anyone else, sometimes the last to leave.

On the way home, they’re more often than not on a work call. After the evening routine is over, they’re back on the laptop, tapping out emails.

Always undertaking research, always trying to further themselves, always aware of the ins and outs of the industry they’re in.

As the work group chat or Slack channel pings into the night, they’re on top of it.

They hunt opportunities, and generally it comes with rewards: promotions, better jobs, career fulfilment.

A Group B person is your classic clock watcher. In at nine, out at five, the thought of answering a work call or writing an email after hours totally foreign to them.

To Group B folk, work is simply that: work. And when they’re not at work, they’re not at work. Plain as that.

I should point out I’m not being critical of Group B here. Both Group A and Group B have their place in the workforce. And indeed, there are some jobs that totally suit a Group B person; that would not require involvement after standard business hours. They are critical jobs, and again, I’m not suggesting it’s such a bad thing.

One thing is for sure though: Group A doesn’t quite understand Group B, and vice versa.

A Group A person doesn’t understand why you wouldn’t want to be on top of your game, why you wouldn’t want work to be part of your passion, why you wouldn’t want to advance yourself.

A Group B person doesn’t understand why you wouldn’t strive for better work-life balance, why you think your employer deserves your attention beyond what’s in your contract and why work could possibly be a stressful part of your life. There will never be universal agreement

because both are actually right here. And so often, it will depend on the job you’re in. Where you run into trouble is when a Group A person and a Group B person is doing the same job.

And it always goes something like this: Group A gets promoted, earns more, even becomes the boss. Group B stays where they are, complains about it, hates the new boss and can’t possibly fathom why they weren’t considered for career advancement.

All of this is very much human nature and our individual thoughts and psyche.

So as the Federal Government this week introduces ‘right to disconnect’ laws, I’ve been left pondering, what actually prompted this and what do they think it’s going to achieve?

Or is it just one of those giant government thought bubbles that are completely removed from reality.

In short, the new laws mean that employees will have the right to refuse contact outside of work hours – including calls and emails –unless that refusal is unreasonable.

Ah, “unreasonable”.

The joy of Fair Work Australia and that word.

What one considers reasonable or unreasonable is very subjective, hence, again, there will never be agreement.

Let me tell you what this will change.

Absolutely nothing.

Firstly, I’d argue that bosses actually taking advantage of employees in terms of overthe-top out-of-hours contact is reasonably minimal in number.

There’s already laws and contracts in place that would prevent abuse of power in this space, so I’m not sure these new laws are going to make any great difference.

But let’s get back to our Group A and Group B personality.

A Group A person is not going to see these laws as a changer in their drive, commitment or passion.

A Group A person wants to take or make that call after hours, if it’s important enough. They want to get ahead on their emails, want to tick off that to do list.

Work is important to them, and we should not shift so far the other way that such an attitude is seen as a problem or foolish.

A Group B person was never going to answer the call or email anyway.

The new laws does not prevent the boss messaging them, it just means they don’t have to answer.

Again, I doubt they were answering anyway.

And so the status quo will continue.

A Group A person will likely continue to rise in their careers; the obvious candidate for a promotion or better jobs.

The Group B person will continue in their mode too, and there’s no problem with that. Perhaps one thing it will change is the recruitment process.

More of Group A, little less of Group B.

I understand there has been generational shift in work culture.

And the days of parents never seeing their kids or missing out on milestone moments have hopefully changed for the better.

But part of that is a result of technology improving our work life, not necessarily killing it.

In a lot of cases, being stuck at the office until 10pm and not seeing your kids has been replaced with the ability to jump back on once you’re home.

No law is going to stop the fact that as humans, we’re fundamentally different. We all have different priorities at different stages.

The person sitting next to you may be more passionate about their job than you. It doesn’t mean they’re wrong, nor right.

Whether we needed new laws to remind someone they don’t need to pick up a work call at 10pm though?

That’s surely questionable.

And at the end of the day, nobody seems certain about what this all means.

An employee will eventually test it through Fair Work Australia, I’m sure.

Others will game the process.

One thing is certain: the work from home brigade will now have to have their hours set in stone, so everyone is on the same page.

The door is open for confusion, chaos and potentially workplace disharmony.

Flood worries grow

Drainage continues to be a hot issue for Penrith’s rural residents.

At a Penrith City Council meeting last month, a motion to spend $7.1 million to fix drainage and flooding issues in the North Ward as identified by a Council-ordered audit report was voted against.

At the meeting, Councillor Glenn Gardiner, who brought the motion, issued a warning about the need for a rural drainage fix.

“It is at the most fundamental responsibility for Council to provide adequate civil infrastructure, such as storm water management,” Gardiner said.

“Our level of storm water management in the rural areas of our city is grotesquely inadequate and we are failing in our core responsibilities whilst ever we walk past this inadequacy.”

Berkshire Park resident Mario Pace was joined by other rural residents and two current Penrith City Councillors,

Gardiner and Kevin Crameri, in Berkshire Park to share their joint frustration over the drainage issues they are facing.

“A number of streets are going under water, properties are going under water, homes, sheds, there is so much water that can’t get out because all the drains are blocked...” Pace said.

Independent Councillor Crameri has long been an advocate for the improvement of drainage in the city’s rural areas and said that Berkshire Park will continue to face these issues until action is taken.

“Well Berkshire Park is dead flat because it used to be an airport,” Crameri said.

“There was drains put in for the subdivision but now the residents in a lot of cases have filled these drains up and therefore nothing works.

“Until we get Council to do the drainage schemes along the gutters to run the water, you know we’ve got a creek right beside Berkshire Park, we’ve got a big drain over on the other side of Llandilo Road, there’s plenty of places for the water to go but they have to fix up the gutters all on the roads to get the water to flow there and then they’ve got to get onto the people that have actually blocked their drains…” Pace wants to see action taken to fix the drainage concerns in his local area.

“I want all the drains cleaned up, all the gutters on the roads cleaned up and get the water flowing again because at the moment the water is not flowing nowhere,” Pace said.

The issue will next be brought before the new Council following the September Local Government Election. It’s expected to be a hot talking point heading into the September 14 poll.

Inspector David Aitkin addresses the media on Saturday.

Three men remain on the run following a home invasion at Cranebrook last weekend.

The incident happened at a property on Laycock Street at around 5.15am last Saturday.

Three men broke into the home and became involved in a confrontation with three occupants of the house. Police believe they may have gained access through an unlocked door. The men had their faces covered and one was allegedly armed with a knife.

“The males have stolen car keys and other property from the house,” Inspector David Aitkin said.

“The males have then entered a utility that was parked in the driveway of the house and have attempted to start it... while doing so a female from inside the house has become aware of their presence and approached the males.”

The woman suffered a minor cut to her right hand, but has not required any significant treatment.

“Naturally she is pretty shaken by what happened,” Aitkin said.

The knife used in the incident was left at the property and is currently undergoing forensic examination. Inspector Aitkin confirmed at least one mobile phone was taken.

Local residents and Councillors are upset by the drainage issues in Berkshire Park. Photo: Emily Chate.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

St Marys: Man charged after driving with smooth tyres, drugs

A man has been charged after police found him driving with smooth tyres and cannabis in the car.

At about 6.00pm on Friday, August 23 a white Subaru Forrester was stopped on Kurrajong Road in North St Marys for the purpose of a random breath test and vehicle inspection by a Highway Patrol Officer.

The breath test returned a negative result. As the officer checked the vehicle the two front tyres were seen to have significant wear, being completely smooth and featuring no tread markings.

The driver, a 40-year-old Kingswood man, was directed to accompany police to the Transport for NSW Heavy Vehicle Inspection Centre. Here, a further search was conducted on the vehicle and found was two glass bongs, a container containing cannabis, a bag containing cannabis residue and cannabis seeds. Located within the boot of the car a small folding knife was found.

The man was issued several infringement notices for not carrying his licence, having his rear plate obscured and the vehicle defects. The man was formally charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, October 3.

Kingswood: Man resists arrest after stealing from service station

A man has resisted arrest and tried to grab a police firearm after stealing from a service station.

At about 1.20pm on Friday, August 23 police were called to a service station on the Great Western Highway, Kingswood where a man had stolen food and drink items.

Police attended the scene and located the man a short distance away.

Police attempted to engage in a conversation with the man, a 34-year-old from Glenmore Park, who became aggressive and hostile toward police.

Police removed their OC spray and asked the man to calm down. The man continued to abuse police as police attempted to calm him down and placed their OC spray back in its carrier. At this time the man attempted to walk away from police.

The man was informed he was under arrest for the stealing offences and the man again became very hostile towards police. Police attempted to cuff the man, but he resisted. A physical wrestle ensued, and both the officer and the man have ended up on the ground.

During the wrestle the 34-year-old attempted to grab one of the officers’ firearms, but police moved to restrict his access. Further police arrived and the man was restrained. The man was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged. The man appeared in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, August 29.

Penrith: Woman arrested after stealing over $1,500 worth of product

A woman has been arrested after an early morning stealing spree totaling just under $2,000.

At about 6.00am on Saturday, August 24 a 23-year-old Kingswood woman has attended a supermarket on Station Street, Penrith. Upon entering the woman was carrying three bags. As the woman was walking around the store, she was seen to place numerous items into the bags she was carrying.

At about 7.00am the woman left the store and was stopped in the shopping complex by staff from the store. The woman was accused of leaving the store without paying for items totalling $1,618.55. The woman has left the items in the bags on the floor of the shopping centre and walked to the car park.

Police attended and located the woman. The woman was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where she was formally charged. The woman was bail refused and appeared in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, August 27. The woman was also issued a two-year ban notice from attending the entire centre.

Penrith: Man arrested after two-car crash

A man has returned a positive breath test result after being in a two-car crash.

At about 9.50pm on Saturday, August 24 police were called to High Street, Penrith for a minor motor vehicle crash.

The drivers had exchanged details, but one driver was convinced the other was intoxicated. Police attended and both drivers were breath tested. One driver returned a positive result, and police had a conversation with the 53-year-old Penrith man.

The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a further breath analysis that returned a positive reading on 0.274.

The man’s licence was suspended on the spot, and he was formally charged. The man will appear in Penrith Local court on Thursday, September 12.

FOUR TIPS TO PREPARE FOR THE UPCOMING SPRING SELLING SEASON

Each year, as we all cling on for dear life to get through August, the final month of frosty mornings and winter nights, we write an article to give people who are planning on hitting the open home circuit (either as a seller or a buyer) in spring some tips.

We are a week away from the first day of spring which is traditionally the most busy season for property transactions.

This is because the weather is warm, but not too hot, and with the onset of warmer weather come luscious green lawns, flowering garden beds and an increased desire for people to get out of the house and into open homes.

We are already seeing an influx of new stock onto the market as people look to get a jump on their competitors.

Here are some things that you can start doing now if you are planning on putting your property on the market in spring:

1. Speak to your solicitor about getting contract documents together. At Complete Legal we can obtain most of your documents within 24 hours of getting your instructions. If however you require specific documents due to a particular feature of your property, that might take a little longer – for example a compliance or non-compliance certificate for a swimming pool. To obtain a pool certificate an inspector needs to come to your property, inspect your pool and produce a report. You should get moving on these kinds of things now to make sure your property is not delayed from “going live” when you are ready.

2. Talk to a real estate agent to understand where your property fits in the market. It is no secret that the market has been a little volatile, largely due to increasing interest rates. One of the biggest causes we see for properties remaining on the market for long periods of time and listings becoming stale is an inability of sellers to adjust their expectations to match what the market is doing. Talk to a real estate agent today about similar

properties that have sold in your area and for what price. Once you have an idea of what price the market is likely to put on your property you can make an informed decision about whether or not you want to list now or if you have the option bide your time.

3. Start tidying up. This seems like a simple one, but the first thing a potential buyer is going to get attached to when they inspect your property is how it looks. There are inexpensive ways to show your property in its best light. For example, you could refresh your garden beds with some new mulch. You could remove that nagging pile of rubbish that has been piling up in the back corner of your yard. You could Gernie the external surfaces of your house or grab a tin of fresh pain and touch up internal bumps and bruises. (Hint: your real estate agent is a good person to talk to about little things you can do to make your property more attractive).

4. Talk to a mortgage broker. Whether you are selling an investment property and keeping the sale proceeds, or selling your house to buy another one, you need to understand what you owe, the process of paying your mortgage out, and if you are selling to buy how much money you can borrow taking into account your estimated sale price. We will discuss some hints and tips for buying next week, but it is critically important to understand what you borrowing capacity is and to consider a range of potential sale prices from the bottom end to the high end – you cannot just assume that you are going to get a dream result on your sale and need to prepare for every possible scenario.

If you are thinking about selling your property and want to have a chat about how the process might work you are more than welcome to get in touch with us via telephone and we will talk you through the process, obligation free.

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

with Daniel McKinnon

Dumping

Gipps Street Recreation Precinct

penrith.city/events

• 2115–2131 Castlereagh Road, Penrith • 10–14 Lethbridge Street, Penrith Administration Contact Centre Open

yoursaypenrith.com.au/monfarville

Integrated Development

• Lot 60 DP 1256085, 18 Ransley Street; Lot 59 DP 1256085, 22 Ransley Street; Lot 58 DP 1250704, 2 Retreat Drive; Lot 53 DP 1246141, 14 Ransley Street; Lot 52 DP 1246141, 8 Retreat Drive and Lot 562 DP 1300838, 6 Retreat Drive, Penrith penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker

yoursaypenrith.com.au

For any queries relating to the proposal: Development Applications

More houses on the way

Developer lodges Development Application for Stage 5 of Highland Views plan

Glenmore Park’s Highland Views has applied to subdivide the next stage of the development.

A Development Application (DA) was lodged earlier this month to Penrith City Council proposing to subdivide Stage 5 of the latest development in Glenmore Park.

The development was first endorsed by Council at an Ordinary Meeting in August 2016 and is now in full swing.

Two lots are being planned to be developed to facilitate the next stage of the site’s subdivision.

“The application seeks Council consent to a two lot facilitating type subdivision,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said.

“The subdivision will create a single lot (proposed lot 5000) encompassing all of the physical works and residential lots that form part of the Glenmore Park Stage 2 element of the subject site.

“A second residue type lot (proposed lot 5001) is also proposed... that consolidates the balance of the land parcels.”

Over 20 new land sites will be made available through the subdivision as well as more public roads.

“A development application... was lodged... and [sought] consent for the subdivision of

the subject site to create 26 new residential lots and two residue lots and public roads,” the SEE said.

The development is planned to assist the roll-out of the Highland Views development in Glenmore Park which is set to deliver over 2,000 new homes once completed.

“The development simply seeks to facilitate the future staged roll-out of the Glenmore

Development Consent/s Determined

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

• The Trustee for Metricon DA24/0474 Homes Unit Trust

Lot 305 DP 270417, 18 Halmstad Boulevard, Luddenham

Single storey dwelling

• Danielle Hilary Jory DA24/0505

Lot 30 DP 1253417, 132 Rickards Road, Castlereagh Home business – cosmetic clinic

• Developable Pty Ltd DA24/0230 Lot 33 DP 222192, 50–56 Galvin Road, Llandilo

Use of Relocatable Dwelling to form a Detached Dual Occupancy with ancillary works for the construction of a carport, driveway and waste water system

• Yue Yang DA24/0553

Lot 7610 DP 872798, 129 Garswood Road, Glenmore Park Home based food business

• Rawson Homes DA24/0187 Lot 914 DP 1279916, 12 Distillery Drive, Caddens

Two-storey dwelling

Viewing of Development Applications

• Calardu Penrith Pty Ltd DA23/0912 Lot 20 DP 1264644, 301–335 Mulgoa Road, Jamisontown

Construction of illuminated multitenancy pylon sign for Penrith Homemaker Centre

• KQ Group Pty Ltd

DA23/1056

Lot 46 DP 261013, 8 Kunipipi Street, St Clair

Demolition works, construction of fencing including landscaping and use of existing structures as swimming pool, awning and carport

• Professional Development DA24/0002 Services Australia Pty Ltd

Lot 2037 DP 263159, 6 Gilja Glen, Kingswood

Construction of an attached Dual Occupancy and Strata title subdivision x 2 Lots

• Eden Brae Holdings Pty Ltd DA24/0468 Lot 79 DP 1299774, 19 Spur Street, Werrington

Two-storey dwelling

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

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

Park Stage 2 and 3 urban release areas,” the SEE said.

The subdivision is expected to be in the interest of the public through the increase of homes being built in the area.

“The benefits provided by the development outweigh any potential impacts and it is therefore considered to be in the public interest,” the SEE said.

“The proposal will deliver a suitable and appropriate development that is worthy of approval.”

Council will now review the DA, while work on the Glenmore Park Stage 3 development, also known as Highland Views, continues. Are you happy with Glenmore Park’s growth? We’re keen to hear from you: Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Highland Views Stage 5 is looking to move into the next stage. Photo: Melinda Jane.

cupboard prize

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

ave you tried the delicious beers from Hawke's?

Experience the award-winning Patio Pale, a luscious pale ale with tropical notes of lychee, stone fruit, and citrus. Or try the Mid-Strength Lager, boasting a crisp, light malt finish with gentle sweet citrus aromas.

If you prefer something lighter, the Half XPA offers aromatic bursts of mango and pineapple, all while being easy on the alcohol content.

And for those who love a classic, Bob Hawke’s favourite Lager brings a refreshing, easy-drinking experience with subtle citrus and a gentle dry finish. You should try them all, and find your favourite!

paceway winners lucky

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

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

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

This giveaway is your chance to share these incredible brews with a mate and experience the best of Hawke's range. Don't miss out – enter now and treat yourself to a mixed slab of premium Australian beer!

Get Hawke’s beers from your favourite bottle shop now.

The Weekender has two Hawke's prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Hawkes’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, September 13 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

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

This week’s lucky winners are: 0115, 0694, 0883.

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

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The vintage tricycle is located on the premises of brand- new local restaurant Long’s House. Have you dined here yet?

2GB

Pointing the finger at water wasters

Sydney Water has joined forces with children’s entertainment group The Wiggles to release a new song – ‘Water Saving Superheroes’ – reminding families to save water after new research shows more than half of Sydneysiders don’t know how much water they use.

Data from Sydney Water shows a drop in water saving, with just 46 per cent of customers attempting to have a shorter shower and 41 per cent waiting for a full load before using the dishwasher.

With the help of Dorothy the Dinosaur, the Tree of Wisdom and The Wiggles, the catchy tune ‘Water Saving Superheroes’ focuses on ways children can make little changes at home to save water, while also encouraging parents and caregivers to adopt more sustainable

water practices around the home.

Sydney Water Conservation Programs Manager, Suhanti Thirunavukarasu, said this collaboration with The Wiggles is a great community education opportunity and an important reminder of the easy steps we can all take to save water in our homes.

“Drinking water is a limited resource, and with a growing population and an increasing need to use water to keep Greater Sydney cool, we know that even outside of drought every little drop counts,” Thirunavukarasu said.

“By working with The Wiggles, we can now reach the next generation with important messages about water behaviours and teach them to use less water in day-to-day activities to help the water we have go further.”

‘Water Saving Superheroes’, written and

performed by The Wiggles, covers easy ways everyone in the family can make a difference.

“Making small adjustments to routines at home may significantly impact how much water you save while also helping save money on your water bill,” Thirunavukarasu said.

“If everyone in Sydney cut their shower time by just 10 seconds, we would save more than eight million litres of water a day.”

For The Wiggles, this initiative is all about empowering children and their caregivers to make positive choices to conserve water.

“Our friends at Sydney Water are working hard to protect and preserve Sydney’s beautiful waterways and focus on a sustainable future,” Blue Wiggle, Anthony Field said.

“By recruiting Water Saving Superheroes, we

hope to help them on this mission while creating a fun way for families to get involved.

“Saving water is impor tant, and everyone in the household can be a Water Saving Superhero by making little changes, like using the half-flush button on the toilet when appropriate and turning the tap off while brushing their teeth.

“We are proud to be Water Saving Superhe roes, and we are excited to see all of our fellow little superheroes saving Sydney’s water.”

John Wiggle, Lachy Wiggle, Darcy Gee (2), Sydney Water’s Tracey Willingham and Leo Mikhael (4).

The people who made it

From fans to hospitality operators, commentators to founding fathers...

these are

In the second of a three-part special, we say goodbye to Penrith Park as we know it ahead of a major refurbishment, and Venues NSW taking control. We continue by looking back at some of the people who helped forge some of the stadium’s special memories...

You could argue that a stadium is nothing more than concrete, grass and plastic seats.

But we all know it is more than that. It is a place where memories are made, where special moments happen, where people forge parts of their identity.

Over the years, Penrith Park has been a second home to countless people – from fans and players to officials, ground announcers, employees and vendors.

The Cartwright legacy

Merv Cartwright and Roger Cowan were the biggest names in Penrith football in the 1960s. Cowan had ensured the Panthers’ licenced club was a profitable force in the mid-60s, helping club secretary Cartwright’s push for Penrith to be admitted to the first grade competition in 1967.

The Cartwright name will forever be linked to the old Penrith Park.

Merv himself doubled as groundsman in the early days, while son Clifford was the first ball boy at Penrith Park – working the sidelines in that inaugural 1967 season.

“Getting into first grade was a big thing for Penrith,” Clifford told the Weekender

“I was the ball boy from 1966 to 1971.

“Penrith Park has been a second home. Dad was also the groundsman and I used to help him do the lawns, and mum used to work in the canteen.

“The original western grandstand is still there under the current grandstand which is incredible.”

All four of Merv’s sons played for Penrith. Clifford played one first grade match for the club, a 33-14 loss to Parramatta in 1977. And where was the game played? His beloved Penrith Park.

Michael Cartwright also played one first grade game for Penrith in 1994, at Parramatta Stadium.

David Cartwright played 15 games for the club, while John Cartwright would of course become a Panthers hero, winning the competition in 1991 and clocking up 188 first grade games with the club.

David’s son Bryce Cartwright and John’s son Jed Cartwright both also graced the Penrith Park surface.

“It’s going to be a beautiful new venue but there’s a lot of history there,” Clifford said.

“It’s about who you go with and the people around you”

A fan’s home away from home

Neil Alchin walked through the gates of Penrith Park for the first time on Sunday, April 23 in 1967 – there in time for the 3pm kick-off to watch an all-star Dragons take on the Panthers at the official opening of the venue.

“Everyone went to the game to watch the Dragons and the Panthers beat them,” Alchin said.

“It was an incredible day for Penrith.”

Alchin was nine-years-old that year, and he’s been going to Penrith Park ever since. He is among an elite group of fans who have been

going to the venue since that inaugural first grade season.

“I used to go in those days with mum, then as I got older I went with my mates. I went to school at Colyton High and we used to get the train from Penrith to St Marys and walk up to the ground,” he said.

“We used to go to all the games but in the ‘80s, when they built the eastern stand, I became a season ticket holder.”

Alchin now sits in the western grandstand, where a community of long-time Penrith fans has formed.

“Our sons go to the games with me every week. They’re almost 40 and 35 now but that’s our thing we do together,” he said.

“It’s about who you go with and the people around you. Some people I don’t even know

their name but you know them from sitting near them at the ground.

“It’s like a community to get there and see the people.

“The new stadium will be great, but it will just be different. It’s changed a lot over the years but this will be the most drastic change.”

There are many like Alchin, who’ve been there since the start.

Phil Storey was there in 1967 too, and the memories have never faded.

“Sometimes the thrashings were as much fun as the occasional wins in the early days,” he said.

“I helped with the scoreboard (situated then on the eastern hill) in the early ‘70s and earned a couple of dollars keeping the tough kids down off a great vantage point.

Neil Alchin in his seat in the western grandstand.

Photo: Troy Dodds.

TROY DODDS

The legendary Merv Cartwright at Penrith Park in 1967.

Ball boy Cliff Cartwright is congratulated by Laurie Fagan after a game.

“I can still remember my brother and myself after the match picking out a car to follow at the corner of Station Street and High Street and as the congestion (particularly heading east) was a nightmare we would arrive at Kingswood Pub corner (while walking) before the chosen vehicle.”

ees in the new one, it’s yet to be confirmed if we will part of it.

“It ain’t easy being Cheesee!”

The toastie van has garnered something of a cult following, spearheaded by popular commentator Andrew Voss.

“We have been so lucky with the amount of

Say cheese... toastie style

Blake Blackburn won a Premiership with Penrith’s Jersey Flegg team in 2006, while his wife Leah was a Pantherette some two decades ago – including in the 2003 Premiership season.

But they’ve become more known for an off-field venture: The Cheese Toastees. Their toastie van has been a mainstay at Penrith Park for the last decade.

support we have been shown from the whole rugby league community. Vossy is an absolute legend and has supported us from day dot,”

Leah said.

“We also can’t forget the love from Mark Geyer, Lara Pitt, Mark Carroll and all the FOX team, Luke Lewis, Ray Hadley, Nathan Hindmarsh, Lou Zivanovic just to name a few who all regularly visit us and give us a shout out on TV, radio, books, Instagram and Facebook.

ground

over the years, all playing their role in the stadium’s history.

But Scott McRae’s 22-year reign as ground announcer from 1998 to 2019 certainly makes him the most iconic voice of the Panthers.

“Even when we weren’t winning games being part of the fabric at Penrith Stadium is full of memories I will hold dearly forever,”

McRae told the Weekender

“It’s not so much the concrete and steel of the structure that I will hold close, it’s the fans of the team, the lifelong friends I have made and the passion that emanated from the faithful fans that will stay with me.

“To everyone that I came into contact with during those 22 years, be it game day, behind the scenes, a multitude of rising stars and legends of the game, I will be ever thankful to you for allowing me to have a slice of life spent hanging out and having fun with you all at Penny Park!”

And McRae has one final message for loyal Penrith fans.

Warren Smith, David Morrow and so many more.

“We have sold thousands of toastees over the years, we are so grateful for all of our regular footy fans who line up each and every week,” Leah said.

Among the most iconic is Frank Ley. Ley was among the principal broadcasters on 2KA, calling Penrith Panthers games from the mid-1970s through to 1989. He became the voice of the Panthers during their emerging years, and in the era before pay television, he was often the eyes and ears of fans who couldn’t make it to the game. Frank Ley passed away in 1995. the names and faces who left an

“We are sad to see the old stadium go and hope there is a future for The Cheesee Toast-

“It’s been a great experience to see the whole community get behind the Penrith Panthers, the excitement inside the stadium and around town makes it such a fun and enjoyable experience even when we are working! We have loved being part of it.”

“If you enjoyed your time at the stadium as much as I did... GIVE ME A HELL YEAH!”

Our eyes and ears

Many famous broadcasters have graced the Penrith Park broadcast boxes over the years –from Ray Warren to Ray Hadley, Andrew Voss,

Voice of the stadium

Penrith Park has had many

announcers

Iconic Penrith Panthers ground announcer, Scott McRae.

Blake and Leah Blackburn with Fox Sports’ Andrew Voss.

Story continues on » p. 14

Iconic 2KA broadcaster Frank Ley at Penrith Park.

We’ll never forget them

The special people who gave Penrith Park its soul for more than half a century

Grand Final-winning captain Craig Gower, said being a Pantherette was a fantastic experience.

Cheering for the Panthers

The Pantherettes have been part of the game day experience at Penrith Park since 1978, when they were introduced by then promotions boss, Ian Maurice.

A number of officials had visited America in 1976, sparking a range of ideas for game day –the Pantherettes among them.

Penrith has had a cheer squad ever since –adding to the game day experience.

Amanda Flynn, now Amanda Gower, won Big League ’s Cheerleader of the Year competition during her time at the club.

“The Cheerleader of the Year was a big deal at the time,” Gower told the Weekender

“We even had a sound effect of a Panther roaring every time we scored. It didn’t get much use!”

“Big League and Contiki were the major sponsors. I remember being up against some amazing girls so when I got the call to say I had won the title and trip to Europe I felt so proud to be representing Penrith and our squad in such a positive light. It was such a memorable time and opened so many doors for me professionally.”

Gower, who is married to Penrith 2003

“We were a team of professional dancers, we worked hard to make the squad, hundreds of girls would audition and only 20 or 30 were chosen. So we took the job very seriously,” she said.

“It was the cheerleaders’ role to get the crowd involved and entertain. For the four years that I was part of the squad, the football team were doing well, so it was always a real buzz to be there on game day. The Penrith supporters are some of the most passionate I have ever met and they were always so friendly, supportive and appreciative of what we were there to do.”

Scoreboard with a bit of Razzle Dazzle

Darryl Rossetto was paid $8 a game to run the manual scoreboard at Penrith Park in the 1970s.

“I ran the scoreboard from 1972 until 1976 on the eastern hill,” he told the Weekender “It was an old scoreboard where you put everything up by hand.”

While Rossetto’s pay rose to $16 a game by the time his time in the job finished, it was never about the money.

“The best part was I got into the game for nothing,” he joked.

“It was a great era seeing people like Mike Stephenson and Bill Ashurst playing for Penrith.

“I was there and doing the scoreboard the day that Peter Langmack scored five tries, and Penrith beat St George 22-21. The crowd was going nuts.”

The famous electronic Panther scoreboard became part of the stadium in 1978, and the manual scoreboard was banished to history.

“Electronic boards were in their infancy but I had seen a few scoreboards in the U.S. that

were quite spectacular,” former Club Secretary and promotions boss Ian Maurice told the Weekender

“I made some inquiries about the possibility of getting one but they were completely out of our budget. I worked with the late Roger Cowan about just what we could afford and I thought we could utilise what was then a new Penrith logo. i.e. the leaping Panther.

“We found a company that could build it with electronic lighting to display the score. We even had a sound effect of a Panther roaring every time we scored. It didn’t get much use in those days!”

Field the envy of all Penrith Park’s field is often considered the best in the NRL, and for the past 13 years the

man responsible for that has been Stadium Grounds Manager, Luke Scerri.

“We take a lot of pride in what we do and have a bit of time to work on it,” Scerri said.

“We stay loyal to who we get all our products from, we’re a small team and we take pride in what we do and always try to stay on top of it.”

Game day preparation is always a fine art.

“We try to get as many cuts in during the week that we can. We mark the field two days before a game so everything is there for the captain’s run. We’ll cut it again after the captain’s run to get ready for game day,” he said.

There’s an obvious challenge that confronts Scerri every season.

“You can’t control the weather,” he said.

“You might have 10 games and all of them could be during rain. In winter you don’t get that recovery so you’re always hoping you get a good season of weather.”

Scerri will remain at the club next season. There’s plenty of work to do – especially at the Panthers Academy, which also falls into his responsibilities.

And of course, the players

All of the greats have played on Penrith Park. Alexander, Simmons, Geyer, Gower, Girdler, Cleary. The list is long.

And with those players have come a host of memorable games and records.

Even those who played one game for the club will forever remember Penrith Park in their lives, and the impact it had.

Next week: Penrith Park as you’ve never seen it before, as we go behind the scenes.

The Pantherettes have become a major part of game day. Photo: NRL Photos. Penrith Grounds Manager, Luke Scerri.

The famous electronic scoreboard at Penrith Park.

Journos roll up their sleeves to help fill blood donor shortage

Earlier this month, Lifeblood put out an urgent call for blood donors, prompting the Penrith Donor Centre to have one of their highest weeks of donations of all-time. But, with rocky times ahead, it’s clear there’s no bad time to donate – perhaps even on your lunch break.

According to Lifeblood’s Maarit Malinen, the urgent call out was prompted primarily by illness not allowing for their regular donor base – made up of over half a million people – to come in, meaning they haven’t been able to meet the current demand for blood, which is at a record high.

“Across this winter season, we have found that there’s been over a thousand chairs across the country empty every week,” she said.

“This has come because we’ve had this really bad cold and flu season, and our regular donors haven’t been able to make it in.”

Thankfully, Malinen said the call was well and truly heard, with donors flying into the centre.

“We have had a record response, and we have hit record numbers last week [in Penrith],” she said.

“It’s a really nice feeling to have the public listen to our call in these appeals.”

Though the busy winter period is now coming to an end, Malinen said that the need for blood is always present, particularly heading towards summer.

“At Christmas time, everybody

all of our regular donors go away, people are busy with their families, and it’s also a time when people are doing things out of the ordinary, in terms of road trauma, car accidents, so you’ve got a double whammy, similar to wintertime,” she said.

It’s for this reason that they’re promoting donation to as many people as possible – including people on their lunch break.

To put this to the

and two other Western Sydney Publishing Group journalists headed down to the Penrith Donor Centre this week to see just how quickly you can get it done.

Once you arrive at your appointment time, donors are asked to fill out a questionnaire with lifestyle and health-related enquiries. You’re then taken into an interview room for follow up questions and an iron test, before getting into the chair.

“It’s all to make sure it’s safe for you, and to make sure it’s safe for our recipients,” Malinen said.

Once you’re through, the process is easy and pain free, and could definitely be done in less than an hour.

However, whilst our other journalists, Ellie Busby, who donated for the first time, and Emily Chate, who donated for the ninth time, were able to donate the full amount successfully, I wasn’t so lucky, due to a slow flow.

Though I definitely felt like a bit of a fraud in my ‘first time donor’ sticker, Malinen said it’s not uncommon, and the blood I did donate will still go towards helping someone somewhere.

“For some people, particularly young women, our bodies change a lot. The type of activities you engage in, like exercise, can also change your blood plasma volume, and so you have more blood volume rolling around in your body,” she said.

“For some people, their body’s not built for it... but sometimes it’s just the way your arm was positioned that day, or maybe it was the angle of the needle. We have some really regular donors who have 10 flawless donations, and then they have one that just doesn’t work.”

Plus, I still got to enjoy the free snacks and a delicious milkshake at the end. It’s for this reason that Malinen recommends for anyone eligible to give it a go.

“If you’re aged between 18 and 75, and you’re feeling fit and healthy, it only takes an hour of your time,” Malinen said.

“We have great snacks available, our nurses are very friendly, the donor centre is warm, so it’s a perfect way to get those warm and fuzzies on the inside and the outside, and support your community.”

For more information, visit www. lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.

InFocus Commercial Real Estate & Laing+Simmons Commercial South East are proud to exclusively present 2x strata titled industrial units situated in the sought after St Marys Industrial precinct to be sold separately

This offering entails a 799sqm (approx) rear unit, and a 237sqm (approx) street facing unit, both with an 18 month lease in place ending in March 2026

Unit 4 property features include:

•237sqm (approx) street facing unit

•Kitchenette & amenities

•Ground floor & first floor air conditioned office

•5 allocated car parking spaces

• Security surveillance systems available

5222 e: penrith@infocus.sydney | w: www.infocus.sydney 2x Prominent Industrial Units! (To be sold separately)

Unit 5 property features include:

799sqm (approx) rear unit

588sqm (approx) of ground floor warehouse space, comprised of refrigerated cool room space, amenities, kitchen space & usable floor space

• 211sqm (approx) first floor mezzanine comprised of a cool room and office space

•Rear yard

• 540sqm (approx) strata approved awning

Emily Chate, Ellie Busby and Cassidy Pearce. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Career comes with a smile

How local TAFE is helping fill much-needed spots in oral health sector

More and more people are currently being encouraged to take up a career in the oral health sector. And, thanks to TAFE NSW, it’s easier than ever to do so.

According to Jobs and Skills Australia’s 2023 Skills Priority List, there’s a high demand for dentists, dental technicians, and dental hygienists.

Employment in dental assisting is also projected to grow by 13.4 per cent from May 2023 to May 2028, underscoring the critical need for skilled professionals in this area.

TAFE NSW has been actively addressing these issues through the Certificate III and IV in Dental Assisting, along with the Diploma of Dental Technology, which between 2020 and 2022, saw an increase in enrolments, with even more studying today.

One of these students is 24-year-old Kingswood resident Elizabeth Tuliloa, who is currently studying a six-month Certificate III in Dental Assisting at TAFE NSW Kingswood.

Tuliloa said that she opted to study dental assisting with the hope that she’d be able to make a difference for people.

“I chose to study at TAFE NSW Kingswood because of the hands-on nature of the course and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives,” she said.

“I now wake up excited, knowing I’m on the right path. Dental assisting offers a stable and fulfilling career in healthcare with the opportunity to pursue further study.

“The Certificate III in Dental Assisting course at TAFE NSW Kingswood provides a great balance of practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

“I feel confident that I’ll be well-prepared to enter the workforce.

“In the future, I hope to continue my studies to become a dental hygienist or a technician.”

Head Teacher of Health Services at TAFE NSW Rhonda Mulligan said the Certificate III in Dental Assisting at TAFE NSW Kingswood is the perfect launchpad into the dental industry.

“Our dental assisting course is highly popular because of the abundant job opportunities

and the practical, in-demand skills our students gain,” she said, encouraging those interested to apply.

“With hands-on experience, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry partnerships, our graduates are well-prepared to support dentists in delivering quality dental care. Many of our students continue their studies in dental technology or oral health, further enhancing their skills.”

The dental assisting class at TAFE Kingswood.

Student Elizabeth Tuliloa.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Winter Sports World locks in key operators as it eyes 2028 launch

Renowned attractions company Hammons Holdings has been selected as the preferred operator to run and manage the snow attractions at Australia’s first indoor snow resort in Penrith.

Meanwhile, respected hospitality operator Trippas White Group has been chosen to run the food and beverage offerings.

Winter Sports World will open in Penrith in 2028.

Winter Sports World Managing Director Peter Magnisalis announced the selections during a presentation at the NSW Major Projects Conference at the International Convention Centre in Sydney last week.

Currently the largest private tourism construction project in Australia, Magnisalis contends Winter Sports World will put Penrith on the global map and accelerate tourism for western Sydney and New South Wales like never before.

“To ensure that happens, we need to place this project in the best hands in the world,” Magnisalis said.

“After a global search, we have

discovered the best tourism attractions and food and beverage operators in the world right here in NSW, and I am confident that Hammons

Holdings and Trippas White Group will help drive the success we expect this project to achieve.’’

Hammons Holdings CEO David

Hammon said: “Winter Sports World is an exciting one-of-a-kind drawcard for tourism in western Sydney, the Blue Mountains and

more widely, Australia, and will be pivotal to growing the local and NSW tourism economy over the coming decades.”

Trippas White Group CEO Kevin Zajax echoed those comments, backing his company’s experience across the country.

“Our experience managing some of Australia’s most iconic venues has equipped us to deliver unparalleled experiences that cater to locals, domestic and international visitors,” he said.

Dubbed “the giant Esky”, the $500M+ Winter Sports World project will inject an additional $222 million annually into the local economy, contributing $2.5 billion in economic growth over the next decade.

Winter Sports World was granted State Significant Development Application approval on January 11, 2024.

It is now undergoing a phase of detailed design and engineering development to prepare for construction, which is on track to begin in 2025.

Winter Sports World is expected to open in 2028.

Winter Sports World Managing Director Peter Magnisalis. Photo: David Hill, Deep Hill Media.

Fast food restaurants eye former car yard on Great Western Hwy

Two new fast food restaurants are being proposed to be built in St Marys after a Development Application (DA) was lodged with Penrith City Council.

The site is on the corner of the Great Western Highway and Neale Street in St Marys and was formerly a car sales business, but is now being proposed to house two new drive-thru restaurants costing $440.000.

“The proposed development entails the construction of a proposed take away food and drink premises... at the current vehicle centre,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said.

The proposed restaurants are expected to be available around the clock.

“The two fast-food restaurants and their associated drive-thru facilities are intended to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” the SEE said.

Those behind the proposal contend that by operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week the restaurants are expected to provide economic growth to the area.

“Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, these establishments provide continuous service that enhances convenience for residents and visitors alike,” the Operational Plan of Management attached to the DA said.

“This availability helps stimulate economic growth by supporting employment opportunities and meeting the demand for accessible dining options in the area.

“Additionally, by operating around the clock, the restaurants contribute to a vibrant and active local environment, promoting St Marys as a dynamic community with diverse service offerings.”

According to the Traffic Report prepared as part of the application, the new development

is expected to be “medium busy fast food restaurants”. It hasn’t been made clear exactly which restaurants will occupy the site, but the DA did provide a small hint.

“It is expected that the proposed fast-food restaurants are likely to be occupied by low to medium busy type of fast-food chains, such as Hungry Jacks and Oporto, based on advice from the owner/applicant,” the Traffic Report attached to the DA said.

To accommodate the visitor traffic, over

10 car parking spaces are proposed to be built.

“A total of 16 on-site line marked car parking spaces, with eight car spaces allocated for staff car parking and eight visitor car parking spaces (including two accessible parking spaces and adjacent shared areas), in addition to two vehicle waiting bays (near pick-up points),” the Traffic Report said.

Traffic build up is expected to be mitigated by having the entrance to the site away from the main intersection.

“The location of the entry access driveway is further away from the intersection of Neale Street with Great Western Highway, to reduce conflict with turning vehicles at the intersection and avoid potential queuing onto the Great Western Highway,” the Traffic Report said.

The Traffic Report concluded that there would be no adverse impacts on the surrounding area.

“It can be concluded from the traffic and parking impact assessment that the proposed fast-food restaurants with associated drivethrough facilities at 508 Great Western Highway, St Marys, will not have adverse impacts on existing traffic or parking conditions and is worthy of Council’s support in its current form,” the Traffic Report said.

Penrith City Council will now assess the application.

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Units need overhaul

I used to clean those units (A house but not a home, Weekender August 23). I remember the shouting and what went on. Half the time my colleagues and I couldn’t continue because it became too dangerous.

CHRISTINE ALLAN, VIA FACEBOOK

Where do candidates live?

Would love to know what suburb all the candidates live in? (Rise of the independents, Weekender August 23). So far no one lives in my local suburb in the North Ward. Suppose that is why zero improvements get done in our area with our rates we pay. Well fantastic we have some wonderful local community pages where the questions are put for the intending local councillors. None have answered because they don’t live here. Just for instance our local wonderful park has had no major upgrades in the 25 years I have lived in my suburb and paid rates like many home owners. What achievements have been done for the upgrade of Werrington Road? Zero since I’ve lived here. Yet they have the hide to put in a new estate, three schools, an inland port, no dual carriageway on Werrington Road. Suppose blow-ins is what we will be getting in our local area of the North Ward community again.

DOM STEVENS, VIA FACEBOOK

Mulgoa Road drama nothing new

What’s new? (Traffic chaos looms, Weekender August 23). The entire stretch of road is an absolute nightmare and has been since Glenmore Park went in. The road has never been properly considered to take the extra traffic that created nor that of the extra

traffic from outer suburbs around Mulgoa, Wallacia and Silverdale that are directly linked by Mulgoa Road as their only route into Penrith. And as usual the greater western Sydney area gets neglected in favour of those closer to the sitting politician’s areas. As soon as Mulgoa Road is upgraded it will then not be enough to take the extra traffic once again. It’s a never ending cycle.

CHRISTINA SMITH, VIA FACEBOOK

Recipe for disaster?

Balance is vital in the running of democratic process to ensure, on both sides of the aisle, there are the respective checks and balances so as [not] to alienate up to 50 per cent of your constituents (Editor’s Desk, Weekender August 23). So, while some may see this as an opportunity to run roughshod over the area to implement what they see as improvements, I fear also that this could indeed be a recipe for unnecessary changes in our area.

PHIL MALCOLM, VIA FACEBOOK

Lucky to have Weekender

I have recently moved to the Penrith area and I just wanted to commend you for the brilliant publication you produce each week. When I pick mine up at the local service station, I can’t wait to get home and read about what’s going on in the community. I’ve moved from an area that lost its local paper some time ago, and despite all the talk of digital being so great, the stories it used to tell have just disappeared. We are so lucky to have The Western Weekender

BETTY O’GRADY, VIA EMAIL

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

The site where the two new drive thru restaurants will be. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The missing Mayor

The extraordinary story of Rodney Field: Where is he today?

Rodney Maurice Field was born at Nepean Hospital in Penrith in 1953.

His parents Trevor and Beryl Field had been married at the Mount Druitt Presbyterian Manse in 1949. Rodney was their first child and was followed by a second son in 1956. He was educated at St Marys Primary School and St Marys High School before undertaking studies in law at Sydney University while working with Ron Mulock and Doug Timmins in their law firm in Penrith. He later owned his own law firm in Mount Druitt.

An interest in politics saw Rodney elected president of the St Marys branch of the Liberal Party in 1980. He secured selection as head of the Liberal Party team for the Penrith City Council elections in September 1980 and ran for East Ward. Rodney gained selection as an Alderman on Penrith City Council in September 1980 (the term Councillor was later adopted during his tenure).

The media celebrated the appointment of Rodney Field as Mayor of the City of Penrith in 1987. One local newspaper reflected, “Penrith’s new Mayor, Alderman Rodney Field, has a reputation for being something of a joker. At 34, he is the youngest mayor since amalgamation in 1949. He drives a flashy Peter Brock Commodore, operates a successful law practice at Mt Druitt and has made some outrageous statements in the past. However, it was not the joker who entered the council chambers at seven o’clock on the dot last Tuesday night to chair his first meeting. The tall solicitor wants to bring some dignity and respect back to the position of Mayor, and this was evident when aldermen, press and public were made to stand as he made his entrance. Mr Field believes if he can gain the respect of his fellow aldermen, then this will flow back through them to the community. Meetings will be run much more tightly, but fairly with a strict observance of time limits.”

“The tall solicitor wants to bring some dignity and respect back to the position of Mayor”

One of the highlights and an enduring legacy of Rodney’s term on Council was the establishment of The Joan. In September 1988 when he was Mayor, “… (he) announced that the new $4 million entertainment facility under construction in Penrith would be named the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre. Dame Joan, a direct descendent of an early Penrith pioneering family, was reportedly delighted. ‘Ald Field said the name was a coup for Penrith

and the centre, built for quality, not quantity would be a mecca for performers’.”

In his Mayor’s Message for 1987, Rodney reflected on “… a year of dramatic growth and change in our city which has challenged Council to keep pace with the needs of our growing community. Our objective has always been for Penrith City to

experienced”.

When Kevin Dwyer was elevated to Penrith’s Mayor in September 1988 after Rodney had completed his 12-month term, Rodney sought leave of absence (some reports say this was for six months). However, he did not return and this led to rumours, intrigue and speculation.

He was subsequently

be unique and to cater for the many and diverse needs of its citizens. …

During the year the establishment of a university at Werrington/ Kingswood stands out as a major achievement. Work is to commence on the construction of this university in June 1988.”

Another highlight for Rodney as Mayor was being able to honour Dr Maurice Renshaw AM (1920-1999) on his retirement in about 1988. Rodney reflected in one of his later posts, “And it was while waiting at the Doctor’s newly rebuilt – and very flash looking – Renshaw Medical Centre just off Queen Street St Marys – that I decided to snap a shot of ‘Old Doc Renshaw’ himself on the wall – now passed on of course – who while no doubt having been admitted to Heaven with a good report – may well have had to explain to the Almighty –that he was the one responsible for ‘delivering Rodney Field into the world’ – and all the problems that’s caused. That’s right – he delivered me – 56 years ago. And it was a good 20 years ago too with that little baby having grown to become Mayor of the City that I was able to honour him with a Civic Reception and Dinner on his retirement, and I recall the enjoyment and pride of that great evening – he and his wife

replaced in his seat in East Ward by Diane Beamer (who later became Deputy Mayor then Mayor in the early-1990s, before becoming a state politician between 1995 and 2011 including ministerial roles in the Carr and Iemma Governments).

In the months leading up to his departure, Rodney sold pretty much everything he owned, including his St Clair home, his Mount Druitt legal practice, his Peter

10 FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT RODNEY FIELD

• He has a proud heritage as a fifth generation St Marys man.

Brock Commodore special motor vehicle, and a vintage motor bike. He kept his 15.3-metre ocean-going yacht called ‘Duke’ which he had built himself, and the vessel had undergone a heavy outfitting for a long voyage in the year before.

He had previously spoken to other aldermen about his dream of one day sailing around the world, though they did not think he was serious. His aspiration was fuelled when he attended a Bicentennial local government conference in Cairns that illustrated the appeal of sailing around the islands.

One newspaper picked up the story, commenting, “The mystery of the missing alderman has puzzled the far west of Sydney. The flamboyant former mayor of Penrith, Liberal alderman Rodney Field, disappeared the day after he lost the mayoralty almost nine weeks ago and has not been seen since. His mother and a few of his colleagues said he had told them he was going sailing but nobody knows where he is.”

Towards the end of 1988, Rodney sent a resignation letter together with a 40-minute cassette-taped audio message to the Council. The tape begins, “It’s been a long time since we’ve seen one another and a long time since my voice has echoed through the council chamber.” He confirmed that he “… really did set sail the day after the mayoral election and took my yacht which was rigged and ready and set out and I have not turned back and even now I am heading further and further away”. He was “… sailing somewhere between heaven and hell on the high seas …”. He made particular mention of a trip he had previously made to the Keia Misu Temple in Japan,

“The Japanese have a saying that when you make a decision that will radically change the direction of your life, you have jumped off Keia Misu. Well, that’s what I’ve done, jumped off Keia Misu.” He also addressed the mystery and intrigue surrounding his departure from Council reinforcing that he had “… done nothing to be ashamed of and nothing to which I hold any guilt …”, and “I know that you will probably never understand why I, who had so much, turned my back on it”.

In terms of how he wanted to be remembered, Rodney commented, “I would like to think that people remember Rodney for the dedication he had, or for the energy and strength that I brought with me … there simply came a time in my life where I decided to totally change the direction that I was going”.

After three years of sailing, Rodney returned home for a while before his father Trevor Field passed away in August 1991 after a long illness. Trevor was buried with full police honours in a funeral attended by about 400 people, including the Police Commissioner Tony Lauer. Rodney Field’s father Trevor Victor Field (1926-1991) was an exemplary local citizen in his own right. He

• He was school captain of St Marys Primary School.

• His star sign is Aquarius.

• He is above average height at 1.93 metres (about 6 feet 4 inches) and solidly built (some reports suggested his height was 1.98 metres).

• He was married for a brief time prior to 1987, with no children, and is divorced.

• His main ambition at one stage in 1982 was to become Mayor of Penrith (which he achieved five years later).

• He was Penrith’s youngest Mayor (since amalgamation in 1949) when elected to the role in 1987 at the age of 34 years (David Bradbury later assumed the mantle as Penrith’s youngest Mayor when he was elected to the role in 2000 at the age of 24 years. Bradbury would go on to be the Federal Member for Lindsay).

• One of his close allies on Council, Dr Malcolm Borland, described Rodney as having a lot of flair and style, and that he was very much larger than life.

• He is a film buff, and especially admires the actor John Wayne who he cited as a major influence on his life.

• When he was younger, he harboured a secret fantasy to spend the night alone in the King’s Chamber of Egypt’s Great Pyramid.

lived in St Marys all his life having been born at Nepean Hospital. He joined the NSW Police Force in 1947 and rose through the ranks to the position of Chief Inspector in 1983. He retired in December 1986 when he turned 60 years of age. At the time, another Nepean Valley exemplar, Tony Lauer, was the Commissioner of Police. Trevor reflected fondly on his friendship with the Commissioner, “Tony Lauer the present Commissioner of Police was assigned to me as a Probationary Constable to train when I was at Penrith”. Trevor mentioned a personal handwritten note the Commissioner had sent him in July 1991.

In response to media enquiries at the time of his father’s passing, Rodney stressed that he was in prime physical condition, had never felt better, didn’t have financial difficulties, hadn’t skipped town with his trust account, there were no criminal pressures, and no relationship hassles. He had simply changed the direction of his life. Rodney Field would now be 71-years-old. His whereabouts are a mystery.

This article features in Bruce Turner’s book Tears Near The Banks Of The Nepean, released in 2024, and has been republished with the author’s permission.

Rodney Field out and about.

Rodney Field was Mayor during a time of growth in Penrith.

BRUCE TURNER

The letterbox drop that could save your life

After being diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year, Glenmore Park local Tamlyn Gresser has started a unique fundraising initiative to ensure everyone is checking their breasts.

Gresser was diagnosed with breast cancer in May after finding a lump out of the blue.

“I’m 33, happy, healthy, fit, working as a pilot, and then I found a small lump in my breast just by chance, I wasn’t even doing an intentional check,” she said.

“The last thing I thought was that it was going to be anything serious, but I went to the doctor, had it checked out, and it turned out that it was stage one breast cancer.”

Following her shock diagnosis, she began asking around and seeing how many of her friends check their breasts regularly, resulting in a stunning response.

“When I got diagnosed, I

started asking my friends, ‘Do you check your breasts?’, and all of them said no, and it just hit me what could have happened if I hadn’t accidentally found the lump,” she said.

From here, Gresser became determined to spread the message that young women can get breast cancer, despite preconceived notions, and how important it is to be doing selfchecks regularly, with 40 per cent of breast cancers found in this way.

“I think one of the biggest misconceptions I had was that I thought breast cancer was largely genetic, but it’s actually only five to 10 per cent of breast cancers that are,” she said.

“For women under 40, there’s also no free breast screening services.”

The result of this passion is a personal challenge to hand deliver a Breast Check Shower Card, supplied by Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation, to 57 letterboxes across Penrith and Greater Sydney every day throughout the month of September, for the 57 Austral-

ians diagnosed each day with breast cancer.

The initiative will hopefully reach a total of 1710 households.

“I’m hoping that I reach someone who really needs to check their breasts or book that screening,” she said.

As far as strategy goes, Gresser said she’ll be starting close to home, but will expand outwards depending on where she is and what she’s doing on a particular day.

“I’m going to have to do it as to how I’m feeling, so the days straight after chemo I’ll proba bly be quite local and see what I can manage, but my treatment is in Camperdown, so I’ll be going and doing that too,” she said.

“I also thought about using a randomiser on the computer –picking a letter of a suburb and a letter of a street name – but also just trusting my intuition, and hoping it leads me to the right street.”

Now well into her treatments for her own cancer, Gresser said that her mum and friends au/p/352536/57pink-post-drops.

Tamlyn Gresser. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Meet our Local Heroes

Three passionate Penrith community members honoured by Westfield initiative

The Penrith finalists in this year’s Westfield Local Heroes community recognition and grants program have officially been announced, with Beth Spanos, Joshua Montillano and Sue Bor named as some of the area’s most dedicated locals.

Being named as a finalist means that each of the three will receive a $5000 grant for their organisation.

For Spanos, a volunteer and

committee member at Penrith Community Kitchen, this means the world.

“I felt incredibly humble [when I found out] as I really don’t like having anything focused on me, but then I understood that those people who are the decision makers for the finalists would know that with the current cost-of-living, Penrith Community Kitchen is quite possibly the lifeline our long-term clients need more than ever, and also realised we have an entire new range of clients, people who never thought that having a meal supplied each day would provide an opportunity to help make ends meet,” she said.

Bor is a dedicated advocate for children in crisis and volunteer with Kassie’s Cases – an initiative that provides suitcases filled with clothing, toys and essentials for kids entering foster care or escaping domestic violence.

“Finding out that I was a finalist was very emotional, I know I was lost for words and that doesn’t happen often,” she said.

“Part of me prays that there is never a need for such a program, but the reality is there is a big need and the thought that others in the

community agree with me is amazing, it is a very scary and humbling experience.”

Montillano, a youth drug and alcohol counsellor at The Street University, said that he was “shocked, joyful, and a little embarrassed” to be put in the spotlight when he was named as a finalist.

“Being recognised as a Westfield Penrith Local Hero made me realise my passion and interest for providing support to young people daily,” he said.

“By supporting young people through The Street University in doing various workshops with the team and providing clinical treat-

ment, it truly feels great!”

Next up, the ability to make a difference is being put into the hands of the public, with the winner, who will receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation, being the finalist who receives the most votes.

Spanos said that if chosen, Penrith Community Kitchen will be able to ensure their staples are stocked up for the busy summer period.

“We will do what has been done for over 30 years and provide a nutritional meal for those in need, and will continue to support our local schools,” she said.

“The $20,000 would provide assurances that the Kitchen will remain a safe place for anyone needing a meal!”

Bor also has a huge goal for Kassie’s Cases to ensure the organisation’s longevity.

“If we were to win the $20,000 then after my emotions were settled, we would be able to purchase 100 cases, fill them, and also purchase a computer for better communication with organisations and to help

with advertising to get the word out there,” she said.

“The more people we can reach means more children will experience a peace during a time of sadness.”

Montillano hopes that he’ll be able to put the funds towards The Street University’s much loved recording studio, with new equipment and additional instruments.

“The studio attracts hundreds of at-risk youths every year, linking young people to support and treatment,” he said.

“Music alone is incredibly effective for young people, it is a powerful outlet for emotions and pressures that enable them to process and communicate their feelings. Not only that, it develops their creativity and connection, and has a positive impact on their confidence and self-esteem too.” For more information about the finalists, or to vote, visit www. westfield.com.au/ local-heroes.

Sue Bor.

Joshua Montillano.

Beth Spanos.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Picnic honours selfless carers Transport pioneer passes away

ichard “Dick”

RRowe, the visionary founder of Busways, has passed away peacefully at the age of 100.

Rowe leaves an indelible legacy in the Australian bus industry. Known for his exceptional dedication to service, he founded a small family business which has become one of Australia’s largest and most respected bus operators.

Rowe’s journey in the bus industry began in 1942 at 17 when he saw an opportunity and started a passenger service between Rooty Hill Station and Plumpton with a five-seater 1931 Chrysler 70. This humble beginning laid the foundation for what would later become Rowes Bus Service and, ultimately, Busways.

Under his stewardship, Rowes Bus Service expanded from a singleroute operation to a route network across western Sydney and south-western Sydney. His strategic vision was crucial in navigating the company through the many challenges faced during the post-war period.

Busways has grown to be the largest Australian family-owned bus operator with

a vast bus network covering western and north-western Sydney, the NSW Central Coast, NSW mid north coast, and southern Adelaide.

Busways today operates over 72 million trip kilometres annually with a team of more 2,800, and a fleet of 1,350 buses from 20 depots.

Beyond his role at Busways, Rowe was a prominent figure in the Australian bus industry. A long-time member of the Bus & Coach Association (NSW), now BusNSW, he served on the executive for many years. In

1984, he was honoured with a Certificate of Life Membership by the association. His influence extended beyond his company, as he was a passionate advocate for the industry’s development and modernisation, earning the respect of his peers and helping to shape the future of public transport in Australia.

Rowe was predeceased by his beloved wife of 67 years Joyce Rowe, and is survived by his five children, 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

To kick off Foster and Kinship Care Week on Sunday, September 8, a free event is being held at Penrith Showground, celebrating those who go above and beyond for children and young people in government care.

The annual event is hosted by My Forever Family NSW, a government funded program operated by Adopt Change to recruit, support, train an advocate for foster and kinship carers across the state.

According to Renée Leigh Carter, CEO of Adopt Change, the Foster and Kinship Care Week Picnic is a highlight on the program’s calendar.

“Carers showcase the best

qualities of our society, and it’s our privilege to be able to offer carer families a wellearned day of fun,” she said.

“It’s a reminder to all that while the carer journey can be difficult, it is also deeply rewarding and satisfying.

These carers found room in their homes and space in

their lives for children and young people who desperately needed the support that a stable home provides.” The event not only garners the participation of foster care agencies across Sydney, who show their support for carer families through stalls and activities, but also boasts a host of fun entertainment for all ages, including rides, food, and face painting.

The event can be attended by carers providing kinship care, short or long-term foster care, guardianship and adoption from out-ofhome care in NSW, as well as the children they care for.

To register for the free event visit www.events.humanitix. com.

Richard “Dick” Rowe with one of his buses in the 1980s.

The Foster and Kinship Care Week Picnic is back in Penrith.

The picnic will celebrate carers in our community.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Training that’s just Dandy

How a local business is training therapy dogs to help people in stressful settings

Dogs are being trained for exciting new roles at a local dog training centre.

Paula Smith has been operating Dandy Dog Training in Cambridge Gardens for eight years and is proud to train dogs to become therapy dogs while also running regular behaviour training courses.

One student, Chester the Cavoodle, has been working hard at Bidwill Primary School as a School Support Dog to help young students at the school.

“Chester is a wonderful therapy dog,” Smith said.

“One of the important things about therapy dogs is that they want and desire to interact with people but it’s in a safe manner and Chester’s so lovely, he waits until he’s invited to interact with the children.

“He’s beautiful with the children and what’s lovely is he always wants to go up to see a child, so there is never any rejection feelings for the children and it’s also a lovely way for children to learn how to safely interact with Chester by learning about dogs.

“When he goes into classroom settings it opens up lovely conversations for the students and Chester just sits there and watches all the children talking, wagging his little tail while they are having their little conversations.

“So, it creates that sort of normalcy and relaxes the children that normally... maybe struggle in that situation and he also loves it when children come and sit next to him and read books to him, he just sits there and watches them. These are children that are struggling with talking publicly in their little classes and things like that, so it is beautiful

that Chester helps with that.”

Smith said that working with dogs is something she has always loved.

“I love the connection and the bond that you can create with your dog and when you build that they just trust you so much and as long as you curve it the right way so that you don’t put your dog into situations unwanted, it’s just beautiful how trusting and how much they want to be with you,” Smith said.

“It’s like you have your own personal shadow with you all the time and it just brings so much joy having that connection with an animal, it’s lovely. I like creating

that for other people as well and brining a lot of joy to them.”

Since beginning to train different types of therapy dogs, Smith said she has been so pleased with the many ways they are able to help other people.

“Therapy dogs that are trained to work in hospitals, aged care, schools and universities, those sorts of settings, it helps the people who are in those situations, particularly in hospitals and universities [that are] stressful. So whatever stressful

situation it might be, the dogs when they come in create some normality in those settings,” Smith said.

“These dogs start bringing back joy and remind people of hope and that these stressful feelings are perhaps momentary for them... that’s what the therapy dogs do for people in that type of setting.”

Smith encourages anyone who wants to know more about her training courses to visit her website at www.dandydogtraining. com. au.

Bessie the Bordoodle learning to leave the school lunch box alone.

Lucy the Sheltie learning to stay in position and leave toys.

The news we’re salivating over

Ribs & Roast has confirmed it will open an outlet to the public in Penrith later this year.

Ribs & Roast – “The Outlet” will open on Saturday, October 5.

This marks Australia’s first and only outlet dedicated to selling Sous Vide products directly to the public.

Already renowned in the food industry for providing high-quality meats to restaurants locally, nationally, and internationally, Ribs & Roast is expanding its reach to everyday consumers.

The Outlet will offer a variety of fresh meats, as well as Sous Vide options, from staples like mince and chicken breast to premium cuts such as scotch fillets, tomahawks, pulled meats, and a selection of carvery meats.

Ribs & Roast specialises in Sous Vide meat, which is cooked in a water bath at low temperatures for an extended period, ensuring consistency and ease of use. This “low and slow” method guarantees perfectly cooked, flavourful, and tender meat every time, making it ideal for busy families who value convenience.

“Our products cater to a wide range of customers, from busy families needing quick, healthy meals to BBQ and smoker enthusiasts who enjoy cooking low and slow. We’re proud to offer high-quality products at wholesale prices,” explained Paul O’Shea, Managing Director of Ribs & Roast.

Ribs & Roast – The Outlet will hold a grand opening on Saturday, October 5 from 10am until 2pm.

It will be located as part of the Manufactor complex at 28/2115 Castlereagh Road, Penrith.

Game-changer in cancer care

Cancer Care Macarthur, a new $20 million, state-of-theart facility in Campbelltown, is set to revolutionise cancer care throughout western Sydney.

Cancer Care Macarthur offers Radiation Oncology, Medical Oncology, Haematology, Oncology Pharmacy, Allied Health, a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT), and support services that are set to revolutionise cancer care in Sydney, offering fast-track services and bulk-billing to meet growing demand.

Data shows the region has higher incidence rates of lung, thyroid, liver and stomach cancers than the rest of NSW. There were 5,134 new cancer cases and 1,668 cancer deaths in 2021, and with a projected population of up to 1,293,520 by 2036, it’s estimated 7,900 new cancer cases will be diagnosed annually by 2031.

The centre aims for patients to have wait times of 10 minutes or less and ensures quick access to a consultation within five days of referral. If treatment is required, it can be started straight away.

Patients have rapid access to an appointment with

specialists within days of the referral being received, and treatment commencing very shortly after consultation.

Cancer Care Associates CEO, Damien Williams, said it will complement and work with existing cancer treatment providers in Campbelltown.

“Patients will have rapid access to an appointment with our Specialists within days of the referral received and treatment commencing very shortly after consultation,” he said.

“Quick access to care achieves the best outcomes for patients together with

alleviating pressure on the public hospital systems. In addition to treatment, the Cancer Care Macarthur Centre is committed to advancing cancer research.”

Supported by the Cancer Care Foundation, Cancer Care Macarthur has already been approved for three clinical trials so far.

These will be led by Dr Raj Jagavkar, Director of Cancer Care Macarthur and Senior Radiation Oncologist, Dr Mahmood Alam, Medical Oncology, and Research Director, Professor Paul de Souza. It’s located at 218 Queen St, Campbelltown.

What the new Ribs & Roast outlet in Penrith will look like.

CEO Damian Williams and Dr Raj Jagavkar, Director of Cancer Care Macarthur.

TROY DODDS

Elissa’s inspiring journey

The finalists in the 2024 Rotary Inspirational Women’s Awards (RIWA) were announced at NSW Parliament House earlier this month. Among them is Penrith local Elissa Simmonds, nominated in the Young Under 30 category for her work across a number of sectors in the community.

22-year-old Simmonds is a proud Gomeroi and Wiradjuri woman, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Medicine at UNSW whilst living with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy.

Though her community work primarily revolves around challenging inadequacies and breaking barriers in the medical system, due to her personal connections, she also previously worked at the Aging and Disability Commission advocating for abuse victims, and distributes supplies at Blacktown Street Kitchen.

According to Simmonds, her desire to spread her work across these areas comes from her care for people.

“For the most part, I try and focus my efforts on people-related things, so the majority of my work has been in advocacy and health,” she said.

“I just really value people, and I think that having diverse perspectives really does make a difference in the way that we approach issues.”

For Simmonds, it was an honour to be named a finalist in the Awards, particularly

amongst the extraordinary people she works with in the community every day.

“It feels really good to be recognised, because I don’t really see myself as someone that’s particularly inspirational, or that I’m

outstanding in any way. I just feel like I’ve gotten the cards that I’ve been dealt with, and I just keep pushing through and trying to do the most I can with my life,” she said.

The RIWA committee is currently organising

an Awards Ceremony to be held on Sunday, September 29.

In the meantime, Simmonds said she has plenty more to look forward to.

“Recently, I got in contact with one of my cousins who lives back on country, and I spoke to her about coming out and spending some time with her and with my family, and she actually is an Indigenous educator – she works in a school and she helps with student retention and increasing attendance and keeping in contact with culture – and she’s asked me to come out and speak with some of the kids there, and that’s just such an inspiring thing,” she said.

“When I was a kid, I certainly didn’t hear anything from Indigenous university students, particularly in degrees like medicine and other STEM fields. It feels quite distant. It would have made a difference for me, and I hope that for her students hearing that it is possible, and you can do it, and that there are people out there who are willing to support you and your goals, it makes a big difference in their life and their decisions.”

Simmonds said that this is a big part of her mantra, encouraging everyone to shoot for the stars and reach their dreams, never giving up.

“You can’t know what is and isn’t achievable in your life if you don’t try,” she said.

“I certainly never saw myself as a doctor growing up, and it wasn’t until I was really exposed to the healthcare system when I did get sick that even made me consider something like medicine.”

Elissa Simmonds is nominated at the 2024 Rotary Inspirational Women’s Awards.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Nominate a deserving woman

EMILY

Nominations are officially open for the Badgerys Creek Woman of the Year Award.

State Member for Badgerys Creek Tanya Davies announced the news last week and is encouraging her community to nominate local

women whose efforts have had a positive impact on the area.

“These awards provide the perfect opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of inspirational women across our community,” Davies said.

“We all know a woman who quietly goes about her extraordinary work, and this is the chance to thank and

acknowledge them for the vital role they play.

“This could be a woman who had made a difference through their profession, by volunteering or excelling in a sporting field.”

Last year, the prestigious award was bestowed to Leisa McGivern for service to children in foster care.

Davies is encouraging people to make their nominations to her office.

“To nominate an outstanding woman please email my office with a detailed explanation outlining why they should receive the Badgerys Creek Local Woman of the Year Award,” she said.

“I look forward to reviewing the nominations as I know we have many women of exceptional calibre who will be deserving of this award.”

The 2024 Badgerys Creek Local Woman of the Year Award will be presented a framed certificate of their achievement, be included in the Woman of the Year Honour Roll and be invited to attend the 2025 Woman of the Year Ceremony. Send your nominations to badgeryscreek@ parliament.nsw.gov.

Davies meets with new officers

Two new probationary constables have commenced duties in Nepean Police Area Command after new officers attested at a formal ceremony at the Goulburn Police Academy.

Class 363 comprised of 110 new probationary constables including 80 men and 30 women.

Member for Badgerys Creek Tanya Davies welcomed the two new police officers to the Badgerys Creek electorate.

“I thank our two new officers and their colleagues for their service to our community,” Davies said.

“Their commitment to fostering a safe and thriving environment is invaluable, and we want each and every officer to know that their efforts are deeply appreciated.”

GM’s Message

The weekly views of Penrith’s General Manager

Gipps Street opening this weekend!

The Gipps Street Recreation Precinct is opening this weekend, and I can’t wait to attend the opening.

A huge amount of work has gone into transforming the 32-hectare Gipps Street site into a sport and recreation facility that everyone in the community can enjoy for generations to come.

Community spaces are essential to support vibrant communities. I’m proud that the delivery of the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct will give residents more opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy a healthy lifestyle, whether it’s in the form of organised sport or casual recreation.

There’s plenty to look forward to in the precinct, like the large children’s play areas, sports fields, netball courts, cricket nets, and outdoor fitness equipment. But I am particularly excited that we are giving our young residents a space to call their own with the youth zone that features a skate park, pump track, and multi-sport courts.

Don’t miss out on the chance to see the precinct for the first time! Come along to

come from diverse backgrounds and professional experience.

“I am proud to welcome the new recruits into the NSW Police Force, who have taken up the incredibly challenging but rewarding responsibility of serving and protecting the people of NSW,” Toole said.

“These probationary constables are helping strengthen the ranks of our modern and world-class Police Force.

“Policing is like no other profession; it is a selfless career where officers run towards danger to protect us and the wider community rather than the natural instinct to run in the opposite direction.”

The new officers have started their duties.

the grand opening on Saturday, August 31 from 11am until 3pm.

Skateboarding workshops, pump track demonstrations, parkour performances, sports clinics, craft workshops, face painting, live music, giveaways, food trucks, and lots more will be happening over the course of the day.

Entry to the event and all activities are free to enjoy. Plus, there will also be a free sausage sizzle and free hot beverages available while stocks last.

For those who aren’t sure how to get there, the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct is located on the corner of the Great Western Highway and Gipps Street in Claremont Meadows.

The precinct entrance is at the intersection of Gipps Street and the northern end of Sunflower Drive for those who are driving. But if you live nearby, why not walk or ride your bike? Two pedestrian entrances are located at either end of the precinct along Gipps Street, and plenty of bike racks will be available.

ANDREW

MOORE

General Manager

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole shared his welcome to the enthusiastic new recruits who

Badgerys Creek MP Tanya Davies with 2023 recipient Leisa McGivern.

Tanya Davies with Superintendent Trent King and Nepean PAC’s two newest officers.

Δ An old favourite revived: Penrith brewery Rusty Penny has dropped a Hard Creaming Soda – available both on tap and in cans as take-away (pictured above). It’s a delicious drop, and will have memories flooding back with that classic ‘90s childhood taste.

Δ Peanut butter shake-up: Fix & Fogg, known for their innovative peanut butter creations, has announced the launch of their Easy Squeeze Peanut Butter Pouches (pictured right). Originally crafted to fuel NASA astronauts on missions to the International Space Station, these unique pouches are now available for adventurers here on Earth. They’re available in smooth or crunchy, and currently on sale at Woolworths.

Δ New shoes to up your running game: It’s no secret that running is all the rage at the moment, and not one to miss out on trends, the Weekender ’s Ellie Busby decided to see

what all the hype was all about – and what better way to do it than by trying out the legendary running shoe the GEL-KAYANO. The recently launched GEL-KAYANO 31 shoe (pictured bottom left) – the latest in what has long been one of ASICS’ most popular stability running shoe series – has been designed to bring optimised comfort while also achieving the adaptive stability runners expect from the GEL-KAYANO range. “As someone who has only recently taken up running, the comfort of the new shoes enabled me to run for much longer than I expected, with the added support and grip preventing the dreaded rolled ankle,” Busby said. “The mesh of the shoe also allows for better ventilation, making sure your feet stay cooler for longer (a must for summer). When it comes down to it, these shoes are a surefire way to up your running game – whether you’re an avid participant of run clubs or just starting your running journey. Plus, with a fun yellow/ green design, they just look really cool.” The GEL-KAYANO 31 shoe

is now available for men and women at $280 from ASICS retail, online stores and specialists running outlets.

Δ New flavours: The verdict is in! The new Heinz [Seriously] Good Mayonnaise flavours that will be hitting shelves are Cheesy Garlic Bread Aioli (pictured left) and Margherita Pizza Mayonnaise. In July, mayo lovers were summoned to have their say on five flavours including Sweet Chocolate Mayonnaise, Tangy Coriander Mayonnaise and Smokey Bacon Mayonnaise. These flavours have ultimately been deemed crimes against tastebuds, and sentenced to condiment confinement, while Cheesy Garlic Bread Aioli and Margherita Pizza Mayonnaise have been set free on shelf. Aussies will now be able to taste the two winning flavours that received the most votes and decide once and for all if they are indeed criminally tasty. They’ll be available in supermarkets over the coming weeks.

Δ New pizza shop: Dough & Cheese, a new pizza and manoosh shop, has opened on High Street in Penrith near Memory Park.

Δ Got some source? We want to hear about new products, flavours, store openings, store closings and more. Email news@ westernweekender.com.au or DM us on social media.

This July 1992 newspaper advertisement confirms the return of Harvey Norman to the Henry Lawson Centre on Henry Street, following a fire earlier that year.

Six months after the fire in January, Harvey Norman returned at a “rebuilt and modernised premises”.

After the fire, Harvey Norman traded on Evan Street in a temporary location at the old Payless Supermarket building.

A grand opening for the new store was held on July 7, 1992 featuring special offers and discounts.

After being located in the Penrith CBD for many years, Harvey Norman found a new home at Jamisontown, where it stands today.

The Henry Lawson Centre still exists today.

Ten Tops discount store is located where Harvey Norman Discounts once was.

Your new career begins right here!

Are you looking to begin your career, or switch things up?

The Western Sydney Apprenticeship / Trainee & Jobs Expo returns to the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre at Cambridge Park next Tuesday.

Brett Carter Events will bring the event to life in partnership with event partners including MTC Australia, Zeal Futures, NECA, ADF Career, MEGT, Apprentice Employment Network, ACFA, TAFE NSW, Nepean Careers Forum, Schools Industry Partnership, The Western Weekender, Parra News, and South West Connect.

It’s the perfect opportunity for students, parents and job seekers to speak with potential employers and training providers with opportunities available now.

Who knows, attending the event could be the start of your career, and you may look back on it in years to come as the beginning of something special.

The expo provides career/job seekers, business and industry, education providers and employers with the opportunities to all come together under the one roof where exhibitors also get the chance to collect resumes and promote their organisation for upcoming recruitment drives.

The Western Sydney Apprenticeship / Trainee & Jobs Expo will be held at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre at 30 Herbert St, Cambridge Park from 3pm to 7pm on Tuesday, September 3.

There is free public entry.

Your dream job awaits you!

NAVIGATING THE FUTURE: Local automotive leader offers young apprentices a path to stability and success

Young people today are increasingly savvy, seeking ways to support themselves financially while setting the stage for a successful future. Apprenticeships offer that valuable solution, allowing them to earn a living while advancing their education.

With a growing demand for automotive skills, those who complete their apprenticeship are well-positioned to secure lucrative job opportunities in their desired locations.

Local business Nepean Motor Group (NMG) have been hosting apprentices from Apprenticeships Are Us (ARU) for around 10 years. NMG is a multi-franchise dealership, based in Penrith, renowned for its leading customer service and best value on its numerous vehicles. The business is also an authorised service centre for a range of car makes including Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Skoda and more.

Project Manager Natalie

SCHOOL DONE DIFFERENTL

Passlow said NMG is especially proud to be able to provide local apprentices the opportunity to gain valuable work and life skills with a local business.

“The ARU apprentice program has been incredibly successful. We currently have eight

apprentices from ARU working with us at all stages in their apprenticeship,” Natalie said.

“The support ARU offers both us, at a business level, and the apprentices themselves, is exceptional. If the apprentices have any concerns about their career, mental health or even

CathWest Innovation College is o ering exciting options for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 across two conveniently located campuses.

Our College o ers flexible learning programs to prepare our students for employment across multiple industries. We o er a range of qualifications that form part of a student’s HSC course package, such as Carpentry, Automotive, Civil Construction, IT and Hairdressing. At CathWest students can commence a School-based Traineeship, Apprenticeship, or multiple Vocational Education and Training courses while completing the Higher School Certificate.

We are proud to be the Gold recipient of the Innovation in Vocational Education Award at the Australian Training Awards in 2022 and Silver recipient for School Pathways to VET at the Australian Training Awards in 2023. This year, we are national finalists for School Pathways to VET.

their personal life, their Support Manager is on speed dial.”

In fact, Natalie still remembers their very first ARU apprentice back in 2014. Josh grew with NMG for a number of years, becoming a mentor himself to other apprentices. Now Josh is a technical leader with a market leading EV (electric vehicle) company; a placement that would have likely been impossible without a strong start in the automotive industry.

ARU has a reputation for its comprehensive apprentice support system.

This unique training organisation is proud of its relationships with market leading local automotive businesses, like NMG, and can arrange for apprentices placement with the best in the industry. In addition, most of the team at ARU are also ex-mechanics who are off the tools, meaning they can relate better to apprentices and offer the best career advice and support.

Come and meet our team at the Western Sydney Brett Carter expo on Tuesday 3 September at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre or contact us to join one of our College Tours where you can find out more about our School Done Di erently W: cathwest .parra.catholic . edu.au

91

Scan to see our Career Pathways!

2024 Apprenticeship / Traineeship & Jobs Expos

2024 Apprenticeship / Traineeship & Jobs Expos

The perfect opportunity for students, parents & job seekers to speak with potential employers & training providers with opportunities available now.

The perfect opportunity for students, parents & job seekers to speak with potential employers & training providers with opportunities available now.

Scan the QR Code above to save a copy of the dates.

Scan the QR Code above to save a copy of the dates.

FREE PUBLIC ENTRY - YOUR DREAM JOB AWAITS YOU

FREE PUBLIC ENTRY - YOUR DREAM JOB AWAITS YOU

PARRAMATTA & HILLS DISTRICT

CENTRAL COAST

NEWCASTLE & HUNTER

PARRAMATTA & HILLS DISTRICT

Tuesday 6 August

Tuesday 6 August 3pm to 7pm

3pm to 7pm

Wenty Leagues

Wenty Leagues

Wentworthville

Wentworthville

CENTRAL COAST

Tuesday 13 August

Tuesday 13 August 3pm to 7pm

3pm to 7pm

Mingara Recreation Club

Mingara Recreation Club

Tumbi Umbi

Tumbi Umbi

WESTERN SYDNEY

WESTERN SYDNEY

Tuesday 3 September 3pm to 7pm

Tuesday 3 September 3pm to 7pm

Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre

Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre

Cambridge Park

Cambridge Park

Tuesday 20 August 3pm to 7pm

NEWCASTLE & HUNTER

Tuesday 20 August 3pm to 7pm

SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY & MACARTHUR

SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY & MACARTHUR

NEX - Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre Newcastle West

Tuesday 27 August 3pm to 7pm

NEX - Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre

Newcastle West

SUTHERLAND SHIRE

Tuesday 27 August 3pm to 7pm

Liverpool Catholic Club Prestons

Liverpool Catholic Club Prestons

Tuesday 10 September 3pm to 7pm

SUTHERLAND SHIRE

Tuesday 10 September 3pm to 7pm

Tradies Gymea Gymea

Tradies Gymea Gymea

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MAJOR SPONSORS & PARTNERS Interested in exhibiting

MAJOR SPONSORS & PARTNERS Interested

WITH NATHAN TODD

Ways to market your online shop BUSINESS

MWESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

arketing an online shop effectively requires a strategic approach that leverages various digital channels, targets the right audience, and builds a strong brand presence. Here are some of the best ways to market your online shop:

1. Social media marketing

Platform selection: Identify the social media platforms where your target audience is most active. For visual products, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest are ideal for broader engagement.

Content strategy: Post a mix of product showcases, behind-the-scenes content, customer testimonials, and user-generated content. Use stories, Reels, and live videos to engage followers.

Advertising: Invest in paid ads on these platforms. Use targeting options to reach specific demographics based on location, interests, and behaviour.

2. Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

Keyword research: Identify relevant keywords that your target customers are searching for. Incorporate these keywords into your product descriptions, meta tags, and blog content.

On-Page SEO: Ensure your website is optimised for search engines with proper title tags, meta descriptions, alt text for images, and a clean, mobile-friendly design.

Content marketing: Regularly update your website with blog posts, guides, and tutorials that provide value to your custom-

ers and attract organic traffic.

3. Email marketing

Build a list: Collect email addresses from visitors through sign-up forms, offering incentives like discounts or free resources. Campaigns: Send out regular newsletters, promotional offers, and product updates. Use automation for abandoned cart reminders and post-purchase follow-ups.

4. Influencer partnerships

Micro-influencers: Partner with influencers who have a loyal following and that align with your brand/values. They often have more engaged audiences than larger influencers and are more cost-effective. Affiliate programs: Offer influencers a commission for every sale they generate through unique referral links, incentivising them to promote your products.

5. Paid advertising (PPC)

Google Ads: Utilise Google Ads to target high-intent keywords that potential customers are searching for. Use shopping ads to showcase your products directly in search results.

Retargeting ads: Implement retargeting campaigns to bring back visitors who have shown interest in your products but haven’t made a purchase.

6. Customer reviews and testimonials

Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your website, Google, and other platforms. Positive reviews build trust and credibility, influencing potential buyers.

WEB SITE

Western Weekender

VINYL RECORDS & COLLECTABLES SALE

CDs, DVDs, Vintage Jewellery, Automatic Watches, Coins, Cameras, 1000s of Jukebox singles, LPs etc Sat 31st August Sun 1st September 8am - till late 2 Ross Street/Cnr Great Western Highway, Glenbrook Collections purchasedCall Mike 0400 675 315

WORKS

Have your say – recommended design M4 Bridge Pedestrian Ramps upgrade Nepean River, Penrith

The NSW Government is planning to improve the M4 Bridge pedestrian ramps to increase accessibility and safety and make the ramps easier for everyone to use.

addresses the safety and accessibility issues and minimises the impact to the community. More information on the recommended design is available on transport.nsw.gov.au/ M4Penrithpedrampupgrade

We are seeking feedback on the recommended design for the M4 Bridge Pedestrian Ramps upgrade by Friday 20 September 2024

What happens next?

At the end of the display period for the recommended option, we will summarise feedback received and publish our responses in a Community Consultation Report. The report will be available on the project website.

For any further enquiries, contact us at 1800 684 490 or M4Penrithpedramps@transport.nsw.gov.au

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

Penrith Regional Galler y Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Height s

Super Save Compounding Chemis t

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Smash Repairs

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo

IGA

Londonderr y

Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

The Bunker

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

MFC Food Stores

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Au stralian Arms

Brisket Boys

Ca fé Fre d

C altex Coreen Avenue

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Golf Club

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Tattersalls Hotel

The Chicken Run

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Mobil Ser vice Station

The Chemist Shop

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys Andrew ’s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Queen St Newsagency

St Mar ys Band Club

St Mar ys Fish Market

St Mar ys Le agues Club

St Mar ys Librar

McDonald's St Mar ys South Monfar ville Corner Store

Photo: Melinda Jane.

the finalword

The ramifications of one intercept try certainly cut deep, don’t they?

After being in the top two for most of the season, Penrith’s hopes of playing a home Final have faded at the last minute as a result of back-to-back defeats against Melbourne and Canberra.

The Panthers now find themselves in fourth spot and with destiny no longer in their hands as far as a home Final is concerned.

But I suspect coach Ivan Cleary has bigger things to worry about, as his cryptic but deliberate press conference earlier this week suggested.

His main focus will be getting his side’s confidence back up and the players focused for these two final regular season games against South Sydney and Gold Coast.

On paper they both should be comfortable wins but Penrith’s form has been far from

superb of late, so you’d have to consider both danger games to some degree.

This is perhaps Cleary’s biggest challenge of the five-year run at the pointy end of the table, though he may argue the 2021 preparation –with all that was going on behind the scenes – was more turbulent.

There is no question the Panthers have not been in this position form-wise at any stage of the Premiership run. As Cleary himself said last week, there’s been times in the last few years when the side has been almost twiddling its thumbs, waiting for the Finals to start. This time around, he has some work on his hands.

Of course we all know that the side will look different in week one of the Finals. Nathan Cleary will be back and it’ll be pretty much a full-strength team that runs out for that game.

But a lot can be done in the next two weeks, starting on Friday night, to have the team in the

right headspace ahead of the biggest games of the season.

The first thing Cleary needed to do was settle his backline. He’s brought back Sunia Turuva and named Paul Alamoti in the centres.

Barring injury or suspension, that needs to be the line-up moving forward. No more tinkering at such a crucial stage of the season.

Next up will be getting in the heads of Jarome Luai and Brad Schneider to ensure there’s no hangover from the performance against the Raiders last week. Both were probably guilty of trying too hard, while in Schneider’s case he was targeted all day – no easy thing to deal with when you’ve been in and out of first grade.

Luai is a confidence player. When he’s on, he’s on. When he’s a little off, he can become trigger happy and off on his own tangent, which makes Penrith’s attack sluggish and clunky.

I suspect Cleary may have pushed for a reset

across the board this week. Forget the last fortnight, forget home Finals and top four, just focus on winning.

South Sydney were gallant but generally disappointing against Newcastle last Saturday night and have reached the point of the season where all out of contention teams end up.

Namely, preparing for a holiday.

Cam Murray’s failed attempt to have a high tackle charge downgraded at the judiciary on Tuesday night probably put the red felt tip pen through Souths this weekend.

I’ve been wrong a few times this year with outlandish predictions at the end of these previews, but I actually think Penrith have a point to prove this week – and that’s not a position they’ve been in for a while.

I’m tipping they’ll put the foot down and get the job done comfortably.

Tip: Panthers by 24.

TROY DODDS FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 | 8.00PM | BLUEBET STADIUM | REFEREE: PETER GOUGH | BUNKER: CHRIS BUTLER

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has made the stunning admission that there’s a question mark around his side’s desire to win a fourth straight NRL title.

In what could be considered a public challenge to his team, Cleary declared his side could still win the Premiership but admitted they weren’t playing as well as he’d like at a crucial stage of the season.

“You end up

deserve and that’s what will happen,” he said on Monday.

“I totally believe we can win it but we have to make a decision on whether we’re prepared to pay that price to win it.

“At the moment there is probably a question mark around that.”

The Panthers have slipped out of the top two for the first time in five years just two weeks out from the Finals, and the possibility of a home Final at BlueBet Stadium is slipping away.

“It’s not so much about where we’re at now, it’s about what happens in two weeks time,”

“We’ve actually had a strong year in many different ways but right now we’re not playing as well as we’d like and we’re not playing as well as we need to.”

Cleary said he was disappointed in last week’s loss to Canberra in the nation’s capital, which followed defeat the hands of Melbourne the week prior.

“We didn’t play anywhere near our best and were probably out-willed by the opposition,”

“I know we’ve got enough of a body of work behind us this season to be able

panther rumblings

FOX SISTERS SHARE SOME GOLD

! Gold medal guests: Gold Medal winners Jess and Noemie Fox made a special appearance at Panthers HQ on Monday morning. The sisters made a surprise appearance at the team meeting, introduced by head coach Ivan Cleary. It was the perfect time for a chat about rising above adversity, and a good mood booster for the players given recent back-toback defeats. Jess and Noemie will both be at the Panthers v Rabbitohs clash on Friday night, with the crowd given the chance to congratulate them on their Olympics success.

! Truth about stadium seats: There’s been some conjecture lately over just how many seats at the new Penrith Stadium will be under cover. I can reveal that about 50 per cent of all seats in the new stadium will be under cover as part of the proposed design. The existing eastern grandstand has approximately 3,100 covered seats currently. The proposed design has about 4,500 covered seats. The existing western grandstand has approximately 2,500 covered seats currently. The proposed design has about 4,100 covered seats.

! Cleary could play: I’m told that halfback Nathan Cleary could probably play against Souths or Gold Coast, but Penrith isn’t willing to risk his shoulder before the Finals. It’s a good sign that Cleary will definitely be right to go for the Qualifying Final. He returned to training this week and the shoulder is looking as good as could be expected.

! Backing organ donation: Panthers coach Ivan Cleary rocked up to his weekly prematch media conference this week wearing the official Jersey Day merchandise, as he again gets behind the Jersey Day initiative this Friday, August 30. Each Jersey Day, organisers ask schools and workplaces across Australia to allow students and employees to wear their favourite sporting jersey to school or work and begin the conversation with their family and friends about the importance of becom ing an organ and tissue donor. Jersey Day was inspired by the gift of life that Nathan Gremmo gave to six people when he became an organ donor at age 13.

! Sponsors get first-hand look: Corporate partners will be taken to CommBank Stadium in Parramatta next week to check out the facilities

and signage options available for the 2025 season. The club is confronting a challenge next year in moving the commitments to sponsors to an entirely new venue, as well as on the road in Mudgee, Bathurst, Brisbane and of course Las Vegas.

! Merv locked in: This year’s Merv Cartwright Medal night has been confirmed, with the event to take place on Tuesday, October 8 at the Western Sydney Conference Centre. The event will again be held after the Grand Final, potentially doubling as Premiership celebration for players, officials and sponsors. It’ll be the second year the event has been held at the Conference Centre.

Dress-up day for last stand: Fans are being encouraged to dress in their oldest Penrith Panthers jersey or shirt for the final home game at Penrith Park on Saturday, September 7 against Gold Coast. Ironically, the initiative is being led by Panthers fan Mick – who who rarely wears his shirt.

! Members looked after: Penrith last week released details about the transition to CommBank Stadium next year and the return to Penrith Park in 2027. While you’re never going to please everybody, I believe the club’s done a pretty thorough and positive job in ensuring everyone is looked after. I notice some fans have blown up on various Panthers fan pages, but it’s hard to argue with the set-up the club has put together – especially in trying circumstances.

! Webster moves on: One of the good guys of rugby league media, Andrew Webster (pictured left with NRL CEO Andrew Abdo at the recent Hall of Fame dinner), is moving on from The Sydney Morning Herald after accepting a redundancy from Nine Newspapers. Let’s hope he’s not lost to the game.

! Radio duo’s rise: Panthers legend Greg Alexander and his radio partner in crime Andrew Voss continue to make inroads in the tough Sydney market. The Vossy & Brandy breakfast show on SEN had an increase of 0.2 per cent in the survey released on Tuesday, bringing them to 2.6 per cent of the breakfast market in Sydney. Considering where the show started, it’s not a bad result and sees them equal with Sydney’s other sports breakfast show, the Big Sports Breakfast on Sky Sports Radio. Another boost is expected as the Finals arrive.

! Got some goss? I don’t keep secrets but I do protect my sources. If you’ve heard a rumour or spotted a Panther out and about, email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622.

Noemie and Jess Fox visit the Panthers.

GARNER REACHES CENTURY

Recently re-signed Panthers backrower

Luke Garner says he is grateful to be playing his 100th NRL game this week because there was a big part of him that thought he’d never get there.

One of Garner’s goals in the pre-season was to notch up the century in season 2024, while his other goal was to play every game this year.

While the latter never eventuated due to a pesky hamstring injury that saw him miss a dozen games, he will get to ‘raise the bat’ against the Rabbitohs at BlueBet Stadium tonight.

“It’s very exciting! I’ve had a bit of time off football this season and this was the game I definitely wanted to get to this year,” Garner told Extra Time on Wednesday.

“There were a few moments in my life where I didn’t think I’d get even one game let alone 100, so it’s pretty cool.”

Before Ivan Cleary debuted Garner at the Tigers back in 2018, the 28-year-old was a member of the Sydney Roosters, playing predominately for their reserve grade team in Wyong.

Not getting a look in at the Roosters under Trent Robinson, Garner said leaving the Bondi Junction club for Wests in 2017 was and still is the most pivotal moment of his career.

“As a younger guy, I was turned away from teams or when I was at the Roosters back in the day, I wasn’t shunned from there, but I

definitely wasn’t good enough to be a first grade player and I was told more or less that I probably wouldn’t be, and now I am,” he said proudly.

“Getting pushed away from the Roosters back then, I look back on that being the best thing for me, so it’s pretty exciting I get to play 100 games after coming off the back of a few speed bumps along the way.”

Garner will be hoping to celebrate his milestone with a victory over South Sydney.

It’s been a lean little period for the defending Premiers after they dropped back-to-back games last week for the first time this season, and Garner knows time is running out to turn things around.

“Last week against the Raiders was disappointing but we took plenty of lessons from it,” Garner said.

“We have to try and learn from those things and not take the losses too hard.

“We’re still a good team. We’re still in the top four. I think if we can get some momentum over the next two games, hopefully the Finals look good for us again.”

Garner said winning his maiden Premiership last season was one of the highlights of his 100-game career and he’s not prepared to leave his personal title tally sitting at one.

“I’m not satisfied with what we did last year. I definitely want to win again this year,” he affirmed.

“The hunger is still there, and I think it is with all the crew. We just have to change a few things and hopefully we’re on our way to being there at the end of the year again.”

Luke Garner chatting to Extra Time Photo: Emily Chate.

SMITH: WE’RE STILL HUNGRY FOR TITLE

As the saying goes, ‘no premiership victory is the same’, and the Panthers know that very well having won the past three NRL titles in very different circumstances.

After recent back-to-back losses to Melbourne and Canberra, Penrith find themselves in the unusual position of fourth with just two games remaining.

If that holds when the final siren rings out at the end of Round 27, fourth will be Penrith’s lowest position on the ladder during their current dynasty.

Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday, Panthers prop Lindsay Smith said no path to glory is the same.

“Every comp is different, and you have to win it in different ways. Every comp we’ve won has been different every year,” Smith said.

“In ’21, the boys lost the first week of the Finals. ’22 was that flawless run through the Finals. And last year was completely different again with the game.

“Every year has its challenges, and every year has a different course to try and get there on Grand Final Day.”

After a week of headlines questioning Penrith’s desire for a four-peat, the players have hit back at the critics, saying they do have the belief and the hunger to reach the top of the mountain once again.

“It’s not great to have two losses in a row at any stage of the season, but there’s learnings there,” Smith said.

“People will be externally questioning our belief but I think internally we’ve all got belief in the squad that we can get the job done, but right now it’s about taking it week by week and that will show on Friday night.”

Tonight’s game against the lowly South Sydney Rabbitohs will be the 50th of Smith’s NRL career. A St Marys junior, the 24-year-old

made his debut way back in 2021 and has been a mainstay of Ivan Cleary’s side since last season.

2024 has been Smith’s best year to-date. Not only has he stepped up on numerous occasions in the absence of James Fisher-Harris, but he’s the only Panther to play every single game this season.

“50 NRL games feels quick! It’s not something

I’ve paid too much attention to, but it definitely feels quick,” Smith said.

“The 2023 Grand Final would be up there as my favourite game so far. A lot of people go their whole career, or have established careers, without winning one, so to win one in my first full-time year was pretty special.”

Here’s hoping Smith can add another in five games’ time!

Lindsay Smith believes Penrith have what it takes to win the competition again. Photo: NRL Photos.

NATHAN TAYLOR

CASEY M c LEAN

Missed last week’s results? Here’s a rundown of what happened in key Penrith Panthers games...

Tries: Xavier Savage 2, K Weekes, A Hopoate Goals: J Fogarty 3/4

Tries: L Sommerton, D Laurie, J Fisher-Harris Goals: D Edwards 3/4

Tries: S Turuva, H Hassett, M Eisenhuth, I Iongi Goals: P Alamoti 5/5

Tries: J Stuart, T Mooney, N Martin, O Pattie Goals: A Cook 4/4

Tries: N Murphy 2, J Edgar, N Murphy, J Galuvao Goals: J Cleary 3/6

Tries: E Alai, L Mpaso Goals: K Skipps 2/4

BYE: TIGERS

It’s safe to say that for the first time in five years the Panthers’ air of invincibility has taken a serious hit.

Penrith supporters are divided as to whether the team can rally over the next two weeks, enter the Finals and mount a real challenge for a fourth consecutive premiership. There are two schools of thought on this one.

On the one hand, we have the blindly loyal and optimistic Panthers supporter who feels that once Nathan Cleary comes back and the side is at full strength,

Penrith will take that ‘last ride’, destroy every team in its path and once again hold aloft the NRL Premiership trophy.

On the other hand, we have the blindly pessimistic but equally loyal supporter who believes that Penrith are in huge trouble and not even the return of the best player in the world can save them from being knocked out in straight sets.

It’s a lot to put on one player but he can handle it.

Now for the flip side.

Penrith are playing poor football at the wrong end of the season. Sure, Cleary being out is a huge blow but there are plenty of superstars left in the side who are not playing up to their potential or are terribly out of form.

Brian To’o hasn’t been the same since the whole ‘shopping around’ controversy reared its ugly head about a month ago.

Dylan Edwards is also out of sorts, raising questions about whether his injury has properly healed while Jarome Luai is looking anything like a top-shelf halfback with his frantic play and game management virtually non-existent at crucial times.

And I don’t know what’s happened to Liam Martin.

CAN PENRITH RISE FROM CANVAS? lang on league

For once I’m not going to bombard anyone with my opinion.

I’m just going to put forward some thoughts and let you decide.

Look, the positive Panthers supporter has a strong case. The side finds itself in this predicament of being in fourth place, due to a series of unfortunate multiple suspensions and injuries to key players on a regular basis.

I mean, the best halfback in the NRL has missed almost half the season. So, his return will be a huge boost for the side. Cleary provides leadership, direction and has proven himself a clutch player time and time again. He’s a winner, no doubt about that.

The side is also expected to be at full strength come week one of the Finals. Barring any further injuries,

Scott Sorensen is expected to return in Round 27. This will finally allow Penrith to field its strongest forward pack of the season.

Finally, the Panthers are a battle-hardened team, they are packed with experienced players who will not be over-awed playing Finals football. If Cleary stays healthy, there’s no reason why Penrith can’t win another title.

The backline is a mess with players running the wrong lines and angles, there’s no cohesion in attack with Brad Schneider often getting in the way rather than facilitating anything.

Finally, the Panthers defence is being broached way too easily when the opposition is attacking 20 metres out.

So can Penrith find their spark and win or are they a punch-drunk boxer just waiting for that final knockout punch to be delivered? You decide.

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

Penrith lost back-to-back games last weekend. Photo: NRL Photos. with Peter Lang

panther memories

The signing of Bob Boland ahead of the 1968 season was critical for Penrith.

After Leo Trevena guided the club through its inaugural season in 1967, the Panthers signed Boland to a fiveyear deal as captaincoach of the club.

Boland had been loyal to Balmain for 12 seasons, making 157 appearances for the club in the top grade.

His time at the Panthers was mixed as a player.

He would play 39 games across the 1968 and 1969 seasons, but injury saw him play just five matches in 1970 before retiring.

He stayed on as coach, seeing out the full fiveyear deal.

The highlight of Boland’s time at the club? Winning the pre-season competition in 1968 – a major milestone for the club.

look on.

Pictured is Boland signing with Penrith as Treasurer Ron Partridge (left) and Secretary Merv Cartwright (centre)

COWBOYS BULLDOGS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS TITANS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS RAIDERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS DRAGONS BRONCOS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM SEA EAGLES PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS SEA EAGLES PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS SEA EAGLES PANTHERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS DRAGONS BRONCOS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS

STORM SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS DRAGONS BRONCOS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS DRAGONS BRONCOS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS RAIDERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS SEA EAGLES PANTHERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS

DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS SEA EAGLES PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS SHARKS KNIGHTS RAIDERS

STORM SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS DRAGONS BRONCOS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS

ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

COWBOYS BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM BULLDOGS PANTHERS DRAGONS BRONCOS SHARKS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

STORM SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS DRAGONS BRONCOS WARRIORS TITANS RAIDERS

ENTERTAINMENT

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

WILL AND HIS MAGIC MEN!

If you’ve spent any time on social media in the last few years, chances are you’ve heard of Will Parfitt – the uncanny Channing Tatum lookalike, famous for founding Magic Men Australia. But, Parfitt said that when he first travelled to Australia in 2012, none of this was ever his plan.

“I was living in England, and I was just doing odd jobs really – I was doing a bit of carpentry with my dad, and then also doing labouring jobs, and working in a supermarket for a bit doing night shifts,” he said.

“I always wanted to go travelling, and I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do or what job I wanted to settle into, so I decided I’d go travelling for a couple of years and see what happens. Australia happened to be the first place that I picked, but I never expected to live there for 12 years.”

Parfitt went on to start his company, Magic Men, doing shows in Melbourne and travelling for hen’s nights and other events.

Though he said he hates being known as an ‘influencer’, Parfitt admitted that in addition to comparisons with Tatum, which arose with the release of each ‘Magic Mike’ film, it’s his status which really took Magic Men to the next level – so much so that he’s been able to take the company on tours around the Americas and Europe.

“TikTok changed the game with social media. I already had a bit of a following, and people knew me as the Channing Tatum lookalike in Melbourne, and then one TikTok did its thing in the pandemic, and it took it to another level. That was where we got a lot of international followers from as well, and that was what set us up to do a world tour,” he said.

For Parfitt, seeing the company explode has been a “crazy” experience.

“When you think back to what it was actually like, we just had that tiny club in Melbourne and we were doing shows on the floor – it felt like a seedy, stripper vibe to be honest back then,” he said.

“Now, we did one in the US that Elvis had performed on. We did an arena in Denmark with 3000 people there. It’s actually insane how far it’s come.”

Now, after not being in Australia since April, Parfitt is making his way back for another local tour – and making a stop in Penrith.

Parfitt said that the level of interaction with the women is what makes all the difference with Magic Men.

“The most common thing that the audience and all the women have been saying is that they love how much of a party vibe ours is. It’s not as if you just sit down and watch the show, there’s so much crowd interaction and we mingle so much, it almost surprises them how much time they get with us,” he said.

“We get up to 50 women up on stage from the crowd during the show, picked live on the night. In the breaks, we also come out and drink with them and party with them.”

Another point of difference is that the line up is chock full of lookalikes and influencers, including Charlie Hunnam doppelganger and ‘Love Island Australia’ star Jaxon Human.

Noting that their last show in Penrith was one to remember, Parfitt said he can’t wait for it to return.

“You’re in for a wild night,” he said.

Magic Men will be on at Panthers Leagues Club on Friday, September 6 at 8pm. Tickets start at $55.10. For more information or to book, visit www.penrith.panthers.com.au or visit the club’s reception.

CASSIDY PEARCE

WesternSydney GigGuid e

IF YOU HAVE A GIG OR EVENT YOU Would LIKE TO PROMOTE PLEASE CONTACT AMANDA at AMANDA.COSKERIE@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

Trivia Tuesdays

Free sign up From 7pm

Etttamogah hotel

Benji From 8pm

Redbull After Dark Party Saturdays

Happy hour from 9pm - 10pm Live DJ from 10pm Log Cabin Sat

Black Dragon From 9pm

Between You & Me & Teenage Joans

Doors open from 7pm tattersalls Hotel

The Radiators From 9pm Jamison Hotel

Bottomless Vodka Cruiser Party

1pm - 3pm Tickets $79

Emu Hall

We like to party retro saturday with DJ Dave Jackson

Carrington Hotel, Katoomba Sat 31

Clarendon Tavern

The Fundamentals; The Mental As Anything Tribute Show From 9pm Penrith RSL

Seven Hills RSL From 8pm Sat

Father’s Day @ Commercial Hotel

Live music from 1pm, NRL from 2pm Commercial Hotel SAT 31 SAT 31

THINGS TO DO

Top afternoon of music at The Joan

Don't miss an afternoon of superb classical music as two of western Sydney's finest young ensembles, the Penrith Youth Orchestra and Valda Silvy Ensemble, come together for one concert only this Sunday, September 1. This special event marks the inaugural performance of the newly established Valda Silvy Ensemble. Visit www.thejoan.com.au for tickets.

BARGAIN BUYS

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

Penrith CBD Corporation

Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

Saturdays 4.30pm, WSU Kingswood Campus. Outside the Food Hub. Guan 0422 120 738.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

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

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club

Gipps Street’s opening day

Penrith’s newest sport and recreation destination is having its grand opening this Saturday, August 31. From 11am until 3pm, the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct will be buzzing with free activities, entertainment, and plenty more to enjoy. Drop-in sports clinics for all ages and skill levels will also be on offer. Plus there’s plenty of giveaways!

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the last Monday of the month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am.

Probus Club of Nepean

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

Penrith Lions Club

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

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

Red Cross Penrith

Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and

This Sunday, September 1, get up close and personal with reptiles at Penrith Reptile Expo and Family Fun Day. The event, held at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Stadium, is the place to be for anyone who loves reptiles, complete with live reptile shows, breeders, and market stalls. Visit the Penrith Reptile Expo & Family Fun Day on Facebook for more information. Reptile show returns to Penrith

volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Penrith NASHOS

Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Nepean Food Services

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

Free food shop

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

MUSEUMS

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

Nepean Naval Museum

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

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

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

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

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

COUNTRY CORNER

Swift closes in on new record

Award winning and chart topping country troubadour, Andrew Swift, is gearing up for his fourth studio album release; dropping the first single, ‘(Hot Damn) It’s Been A Minute’. The new studio album is scheduled for release in 2025.

“I’ve found myself saying, ‘hot damn, it’s been a minute’ a little more often than I’d like to be. Time seems to have been getting away a little too easily the past few years and catching up with friends feels like it’s happening less frequently,” Swift said.

“But when we do get together, things pick up exactly where they left off. I always enjoy writing with

Phil Barton, and this song was no exception. We always seem to get on the same page very quickly and always manage to write something I’m excited to record and release.”

The song is out now on all the usual streaming services.

Bamford drops new music

Australian born/Canadian bred, Gord Bamford is one of Canada’s most awarded country music artists with a total of 26 CCMA Awards.

No stranger to his birthplace, Bamford has released his new single, ‘Just Gettin’ Started’, in the lead up to his Australian tour dates starting in October.

“Bringing my new music to Australia has been sitting at the top of my wish list for a long time,” Bamford said.

“I am so happy and excited to now have the opportunity to tour and to connect with Australian audiences again. To be able to visit the country of my birth and to play my music there is a gift that means so much to me.

The shows in 2023 were all amazing and I can’t wait to come back down-under in October 2024.”

Next year will mark Bamford’s 25th year in the industry. During that time, he has released 10 studio albums and has had 28 Top 10 Singles, one Platinum Album, two Gold Albums, one Platinum Single and seven Gold Singles in Canada. He has achieved in excess of 100 million streams in 179 countries and five billion global audience impressions at radio and he remains to this day one of Canada’s hardest working touring artists, performing between 100-200 shows per year pending his album release cycle.

LANGUAGE WARNING

Aspecial collaboration formed between Red Room Poetry and the UK’s leading poetry and spoken word festival, ‘Contains Strong Language’, is coming to Riverside Theatres this Saturday, August 31.

For the first time since it was founded in 2017, ‘Contains Strong Language’ is heading overseas and will broadcast Australian poetry throughout the nation, to the UK, and to over 200 countries across the world.

Performances from some of the most electric and exciting hip hop and spoken word artists for BBC Radio 4 will be hosted by UK poet Ian McMillan. The line-up will include DOBBY, Sara Mansour, Mohammad Awad, L-Fresh The Lion, Hani Abdile, Yleia Mariano, and Adrian Mouhajer.

‘Speak Australian’ will be run by Sweat-

shop, a literacy movement based in Western Australia, and will feature class, race, gender, and sexuality crashing against each other in a collection of diverse stories depicting the soul of contemporary Australia. It will be hosted by Michael Mohammad Ahmad, and the line-up will include Jazz Money, Natalia Figueroa Barroso, Winnie Dunn, Mark Mariano, and Katie Shammas.

Closing the extravagant day will be the Parramatta Heat for the Australian Poetry Slam 2024, hosted by DEFNE and will include a feature set by Zohab Zee Khan.

The day of free, live and broadcast events will include spoken word and hip-hop performance, slam, panel, and film as part of this year’s poetry month.

‘Contains Strong Language’ will be on at Riverside Theatres on Saturday, August 31 from 10.30am to 7pm. For more information or to book, visit www.riversideparramatta.com.au.

HAYLEY

Ê Amazon Prime Video has announced the premiere date of the Australian adaptation of ‘The Office’. Premiering on Friday, October 18, the comedy series is the 13th version of the global hit and will have the first-ever female lead in Felicity Ward. It was over 20 years ago that the world was introduced to the wonderfully bleak mockumentary world of ‘The Office’, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. While many aspects of the workplace have changed since then, especially post 2020, the physical office is a timeless precinct for comedy, and one that will never tire an audience. This should be a huge hit when all episodes drop mid October.

Ê Exciting news for fans of ‘The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition’ with the new season set to launch on 10 on Monday, September 9 at 7.30pm. 11 teams of famous faces and their loved ones have packed their bags and are about to take on the ultimate global adventure. From musicians to reality TV icons, comedians to sporting legends, the competition has never been more ferocious as our teams battle it out for glory, and $100,000 for their chosen charity. The trailer

for this is outstanding, so I can’t wait to see how it all plays out!

Ê The new season of ‘Shark Tank Australia’ is just around the corner, and 10 have confirmed two new Sharks will join the series. Queensland telco giant turned health and beauty entrepreneur Maxine Horne and smart tech guru, savvy investor and new age explorer Nick Bell will join returning investors Davie Fogarty, Jane Lu and Robert Herjavec when the show returns soon. Unfortunately not returning this season are Sabri Suby, founder of King Kong Digital Marketing Agency and Dr Catriona Wallace, founder of the Responsible Metaverse Alliance.

Ê 10 BOLD has announced a regular 4.30pm Sunday NBL game to be broadcast live and in high definition from September 29. It follows the announcement of the NBL’s return to a main free-to-air channel for the first time in a decade, with the 2.30pm marquee Sunday game to be broadcast on 10 in high definition from September 22. The

addition of the 10 BOLD game at 4.30pm means Sunday double-headers will be available to more Australians and basketball lovers. The first 10 game of the season will be the Adelaide 36ers v Sydney Kings on September 22, while the first 10 BOLD game will come in Round 2 when the New Zealand Breakers host the South East Melbourne Phoenix on September 29.

Ê The second instalment of the anthology series ‘Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story’ premieres on Netflix on Thursday, September 19. Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, who previously produced the Jeffrey Dahmer miniseries, tackle another high-profile case that captivated the US in the ’90s. ‘Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story’ is about the two brothers who were convicted in 1996 for the murders of their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez.

Ê Exciting news landed on my desk this week with season four of ‘Ted Lasso’ looking likely! Fingers crossed it happens!

TV

Guide:

August 30 – September 5

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America 10:30 That Pacific Sports Show 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Troppo (M l,v) 2:00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee 2:55 Monty Don’s French Gardens (PG) 3:55 Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 4:40 Grand Designs (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:30 Van Der Valk (M) 9:55 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Web Of Dreams” (M v) (’19) Stars: Jennifer Laporte 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “Yesterday” (M l) (’19) Stars: Himesh Patel 10:15 TBA 11:00 TBA 12:40 GetOn Extra (PG) 1:10 Ant Middleton & Rebel Wilson - Straight Talking (M l) 6:00 Paralympics Paris: Day 1: Early Morning *Live* 6:30 Today 9:00 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Paralympics Paris: Day 1: Encore *Live* 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Panthers v Rabbitohs *Live* 9:55 NRL: Golden Point

American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL Women’s: Round 1: Sydney v Collingwood *Live* 9:10 AFL Women’s: Round 1: West Coast v Richmond *Live*

12:00 Life (M) 3:00 Modern Family (PG) 3:30 Baking It (PG) 4:30 Dodger (PG) 5:30 First Dates UK (M s) 6:35 Movie: “The Angry Birds Movie 2” (PG) (’19) Stars: Jason Sudeikis 8:30 Movie: “Spider-Man 2” (M) (’04) Stars: Tobey Maguire

August

31

Saturday

4:05 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:30 Kenya Wildlife Diaries (PG) 7:45 Movie: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (PG) (’09) 9:20 Movie: “Inky Pinky Ponky” (M I) (’23) 6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 Escape Fishing With ET 8:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 Dr Phil (M) 1:30 Blue Bloods (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 JAG (PG) 5:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 2:00 Becker (PG) 2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 Rules Of Engagement (PG) 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00

Jr 8:30 How Do They Really Do It? 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Unforgotten (M l) 1:15 Sister Boniface Mysteries (PG) 2:05 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction 2:40 And We Danced (PG) 3:45 David Attenborough’s Galapagos 4:40 The Assembly 5:30 Landline 6:00 Australian Story 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Sister Boniface Mysteries (PG) 8:20 Vera (M v) 9:50 Fifteen-Love (M l) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Horse Racing: Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Die Hard: With A Vengeance” (M l,v) (’95) Stars: Bruce Willis 10:05 Movie: “The Taking Of Pelham 123” (MA15+) (’74) Stars: Denzel Washington 6:00 Paralympics Paris: Day 2: Early Morning *Live* 7:00 Weekend Today

3:00 Chris Tarrant’s Extreme Railways (PG) 4:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:30 Medical Rookies (PG) 6:00 Heathrow (PG) 6:30 The Highland Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG)

3:00 Search4Hurt (PG) 3:30 Blokesworld (M) 4:00 Desert Collectors (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Ghost Rider” (M v) (’07) Stars: Nicolas Cage

The Crystal Maze (PG) 8:15 Robot Wars 9:15 Movie: “Zombie Town” (M) (’23) Stars: Dan Aykroyd 2:00 ABC

12:30 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 2:35 Movie: “Spider-Man 2” (M v) (’04) Stars: Tobey Maguire 5:15 Movie: “The Smurfs 2” (G) (’13) Stars: Neil Patrick Harris 7:30 Movie: “What Women Want” (PG) (’00) Stars: Mel Gibson

Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 Mythbusters (PG) 5:25 Long Lost Family (PG) 6:15 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 QI (PG)

2:40 Kenya Wildlife Diaries (PG) 3:35 NITV News: Nula 4:10 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:20 Unsettled (PG) 5:50 Kairakau Te O Tane (PG) 6:30 Chuck And The First Peoples’ Kitchen (PG) 7:00 The Other Side 7:30 Alone Australia (M I)

5:30 Lorraine Pascale: Baking Made Easy 6:00 David Rocco’s Italia 6:30 Return To River Cottage 7:30 Hairy Bikers Go West 8:30 Gordon, Gino And Fred’s Road Trip 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover 10:30 River Cottage Australia

3:50 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:20 PBS News Hour 5:20 Forged In Fire (PG) 6:10 Lost For Words 7:15 Jeopardy! 7:40 NITV News Update 7:45 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:45 Glastonbury Festival 2024 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:40 Movie: “Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Road Chip” (PG) (’15) Stars: Justin Long 7:30 Movie: “Legally Blonde 2: Red, White And Blonde” (PG) (’03) Stars: Reese Witherspoon

11:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 12:00 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 1:00 JAG (PG) 3:00 Tough Tested 4:00 All 4 Adventures (PG) 5:00 Reel Action 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 JAG (PG) 7:00 Diagnosis Murder (M) 8:00 NCIS (PG) 9:50 Bull (M v)

12:30 Friends (PG) 1:30 Becker (PG) 2:00 Frasier (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Frasier (PG) 5:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

5:10 Extreme Food Phobics 6:05 National Indigenous Fashion Awards 2024 7:10 Rock Legends: David Bowie (PG) 7:40 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:35 Movie: “Woodstock: Three Days That Defined A Generation” (M d) (’19) 3:00 Surfing Australia TV (PG) 3:30 Police Interceptors (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Oddball” (G) (’15) Stars: Shane Jacobson 7:30 Movie: “Cheaper By The Dozen” (G) (’03) Stars: Steve Martin 9:30 Movie: “Bean” (PG) (’97) Stars: Rowan Atkinson

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:25 Darby And Joan (PG) 3:10 Nigella At My Table 3:40 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 4:30 Restoration Australia 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Vera (M) 9:00 FifteenLove (M l) 9:50 Unforgotten (M l,s) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 1:00 TBA 2:30 Beach Cops (PG) 3:00 Border Security International (PG) 3:30 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Voice (PG) 8:40 TBA 9:40 The Latest Seven News 10:10 Crime Investigation Australia - Most Infamous (M v) 6:00 Paralympics Paris: Day 3: Early Morning *Live* 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Paralympics Paris: Day 3: Encore *Live* 11:00 Sunday Footy Show (PG) 12:00 NRL: Women’s Premiership: Knights v Tigers *Live* 1:30 NRL: Women’s Premiership: Broncos v Cowboys *Live* 3:30 NRL: Roosters v Raiders *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 The Block (PG)

The Amazing Race 1:00 Home And Away (PG) 4:00 The

(PG) 5:30 Puppy

(PG) 6:30 Bondi

(PG) 7:30

Rises” (M)

& Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M) 10:30 Law & Order (M) 11:30 Monk (M) 3:10 Pretendians 4:10 Night Cries: A Rural Tragedy 4:40 Ray Charles At Salle Pleyel 6:10 NITV News Update 6:20 Natural Born Rebels (PG) 7:30 Stable: The Boxing Game 8:30 Movie: “Ali’s Comeback” (M I) (’20) Stars: Michael Julian 1:30 Exploring Off The Grid (PG) 2:00 Hunted Australia (PG) 3:10 Tough Tested 4:05 Bondi Rescue (PG) 4:30 On The Fly 5:00 I Fish 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 JAG (PG) 7:00 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 8:00 NCIS (M) 9:55 Bull (M v) 7:30 Neighbours (PG) 9:30 Becker (PG) 10:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 The Middle (PG) 3:30

Britain 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover 10:30 River Cottage Australia 4:50 ABC World News Tonight 5:20 PBS Washington Week 5:45 The Machines That Built America (PG) 6:35 Abandoned Engineering 7:30 Abandoned

11:45 Movie: “The Honey Pot” (G) (’67)

Get Macca’s® delivered.

4:00 Medical Rookies (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 I Escaped To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 4:30 Talking W (PG) 5:00

6:05 Little J And Big Cuz 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 The Inbestigators 7:50 Operation Ouch! (PG)

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

JAG (PG) 5:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

6:30

7:00 The Cook Up With

6:05 Little J And Big Cuz 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 The Inbestigators 7:50 Operation Ouch! (PG) 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7:30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 4:40 Mythbusters (PG) 5:30 Long Lost Family (PG) 6:15 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 My Family (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Breeders (M l) 9:20 Extras (M) 5:30 My Market Kitchen 6:00 Pati’s

Forged In Fire (PG) 6:10

With Prue & Rupy

Liaw 7:30 Cook Clever, Waste

(PG) 7:15 Jeopardy! 7:40 NITV News Update 7:45 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Nanny (PG) 7:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG)

Modern Family (PG) 6:25 First Dates Australia (PG) 7:30 First Dates UK (M s) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 Te Ao With Moana 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Volcanic Odysseys (PG) 7:30 Kickin’ Back With Gilbert McAdam 1:30 Blue Bloods (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 JAG (PG) 5:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 9:30 FBI: International (M)

6:05 Little J And Big Cuz 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 The Inbestigators 7:50 Operation Ouch! (PG) 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 4:35 Mythbusters (PG) 5:25 Long Lost Family (PG) 6:15 Car S.O.S (PG) 7:00 My Family (PG) 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Interview With The Vampire 5:30 My Market Kitchen 6:00 Pati’s Mexican Table 6:30

6:05 Little J And Big Cuz 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:35 The Inbestigators

4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 4:30 The Addams Halloween - Addams Style 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Nanny (PG) 7:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (M)

The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 5:00 Flip Or Flop 6:00 House

5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Good Bones 9:30 Restored

7:30 NCIS (M v) 9:25 FBI: International (M) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

Wine list a highlight at Long’s House Brisket Boys roars into Leagues Club

Penrith’s newest dining venue, Long’s House, has officially opened, offering perfectly aged wines, delicious food, and unmatched views.

Vince Capolupo and Richard Kelaher have been friends for over 30 years, and have long aspired to open a restaurant together, with Capolupo the owner of Lakeside Restaurant in the Regatta Centre, and Kelaher a self-proclaimed lover of food and wine.

For the last six years, they’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity, which they found in the historic Long’s House.

“When this came up, I just thought it was perfect. It had the right feel, the right vibe,” Capolupo said.

The menu has a contemporary Australian

theme, with some European delights. But, the owners’ pride and joy is the extensive wine list, which features a variety of options including some of their own personal favourites.

With this, they’re hoping to bring something different to Penrith’s dining scene.

“It’s hard to find restaurants with aged wine, or wine at the right time to drink, plus a menu that matches such wine,” Kelaher said.

The venue is open for breakfast and lunch every day, as well as dinner from Wednesday to Saturday.

Long’s House is located at 81/151 Old Castlereagh Road, Castlereagh.

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

Penrith’s beloved barbecue restaurant

Brisket Boys has opened a second location that’s got everybody talking.

Brisket Boys was established with a passion for low-and-slow barbecue inspired by the great state of Texas.

Big state, big love of barbecue, and an equally matched love of sport.

The opportunity to partner with Panthers, located downstairs in The Basement Sports Bar – one of western Sydney’s best sports show-

case venues – has allowed Brisket Boys to design a sport bar-inspired menu perfect for pre-game, during, and post-game catch-ups with friends and family.

Menu highlights include their classic burger range featuring brisket, pork and fried chicken, as well as deluxe sandwiches like their Philly Cheese Brisket and The Reuben.

Loaded fries and other barbecue snack items are also available, perfect for sharing with

mates and family.

“Partnering with Panthers has been a seamless transition for Brisket Boys and our team. They have been incredible and very supportive in their onboarding and support… especially the loaded fries – the Panthers staff are loving this particular menu item!” Brisket Boys Co-founder, Dan Latty said.

“With two home games remaining plus hopefully lots of Finals footy involving Penrith, as well as the Sunset Bash on September 21 and of course Father’s Day this Sunday, we are really keen to keep building our new customer base and providing a great barbecue inspired menu.”

Barbecue and sport combine not just in Texas – Penrith now has a Brisket Boys at Panthers!

For a full American barbecue experience, including All You Can Eat Barbecue, visit the Brisket Boys team at their North Penrith venue at Manufactor.

Penrith CBD’s food scene is first class

Not sure what to get dad this Father’s Day? Skip a trip to the city and instead head into the Penrith CBD for endless options when it comes to food and drinks.

According to Penrith CBD Corp CEO Gai Hawthorn, it’s now more important than ever before to support our local businesses.

“We want to ensure that in the future, we have these local businesses at our doorstep, and if we don’t shop and dine local, we’ll lose them,” she said.

With Father’s Day now well and truly right around the corner, Hawthorn said it’s the perfect time to do so.

“Whether it’s food or gifts, the CBD has it all,” she said.

“Don’t go into the city. Stay

local, support local, and they’ll be here for you in the future.”

If all dad wants for Father’s Day is a delicious meal, there are plenty of options of all cuisines to choose from in Penrith.

“My favourite is the breakfast side of it, so if you’re considering that, you’ve got plenty of options; 4oz & Co, Screaming Beans, High St Depot, Natural Choice, and Mr Watkin’s,” Hawthorn

said.

“Then, in the evenings, you’ve got Savoury Dining, Happy Inn, Checho’s – the list goes on and on!”

But, if you’re looking for something a little more out there, Hawthorn has a few more suggestions.

“If you’re not thinking food, you’ve got Narrow Escape Rooms for a bit of fun, you’ve got Mrs C’s Cupcakes who is catering for dad, Poles Patisserie also have some special Father’s Day cakes happening, or maybe shout him a tattoo for something different!” she said.

After Father’s Day’s over, though, there’s no point in stopping – head out in the sunshine, and into a local business.

“Venture out, the weather’s great!” she said.

Soft drink or dessert not included. Offer available only Wednesdays and Thursdays

Shop 5&6, 20-22 Woodriff Street PENRITH 4707 7528

Opening Hours: Mon – Thu 5pm-9pm Fri – Sat 11:30am-9pm Sun 11:30am-8pm griddlerestaurant.com.au

The best line-up of local restaurants

Westfield Penrith brings the latest in premium dining with options for the whole family.

Eat to your heart’s content at the newest addition to Penrith – Chef’s Buffet Korean BBQ! With a delicious selection of premium meats to BBQ as you like, plus an authentic noodle bar and dessert bar – new to Westfield Penrith.

Or cosy up at Hoyts Cinemas and catch the latest releases!

Inside, near Coles, you can get your Asian food fix to-go or dine in with a selection of authentic dishes from Thai Thae. Or treat yourself to freshly made traditional dumplings, wontons and more from Smiling Dumplings & Noodles.

Craving something a little different?

Riley Street has you covered with everything from burgers and burritos, to noodles, steak and sweet treats. Open into the evening, make a night of it with a visit to Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq & Holey Moley with games, cocktails and bar food.

Plus you can grab all of your essentials from Coles, Woolworths or Aldi after you dine with free parking for everyone after 6pm. Visiting during the day? Westfield Members enjoy four hours free parking and with 300 stores you can shop ‘til you drop with everything you need for the family under one roof.

Chef ’s Buffet Korean BBQ

Betty’s Burgers Billy Baxter’s Gelato Messina

Grill’d ICG Incredible Korean Chicken Jack Little

Mad MexMaster Rolls Milk Flower

Nando’s San Churro Sittano’s Bar & Restaurant

Smiling Dumpling & Noodles Starbucks Stir Crazy

Sushi Musa Taste of India Thai Thae

Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq & Holey Moley

Enjoy authentic and traditional Thai dishes from Thai Thae, located on Ground level, near Coles.

Berry delicious options at Acai Shack

You can now purchase the acai bowls of your dreams right in the heart of Penrith, thanks to Acai Shack.

Acai Shack opened up on Evan Street in November 2023 after plenty of hard work and sacrifices from sisters Roseanne and Reanne.

The duo said the idea came from their eagerness to keep up with popular trends in the local area and entertain the community by opening seven days a week for the early birds and night owls.

They’re doing this by taking acai bowls to the next level.

Not only do they have the basics, but they also provide different flavours every fortnight according to the requests of their customers by adding a poll on their Instagram. This includes coconut, dragon fruit

and even pistachio soft serve. They also have a wide range of toppings and sauces, as well as other desserts like Dutch pancakes and cakes on display.

You can also head down for your daily coffee, cold drink or frappe.

Over the last year, Reanne said the business has been progressing and growing thanks to both social media and word of mouth, adding that they’re extremely grateful for each and every one of their customers.

But, they’re hoping to see even more locals walking through the doors to try their delicious acai.

There is plenty of parking available. They also have both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and a TV displayed to keep the kids entertained.

They’re at 62 Evan Street, Penrith.

Fuel your day, the berry way... with ACAI SHACK!

Check out our wide range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and delicious desser ts. Whether you're on the go or just craving something nutritious and tasty, Acai Shack has you covered.

As the weather is warming up Acai Shack is the best place to cool down with something refreshing !

Follow us on socials to keep up with our latest flavours ever y for tnight for ever yone to get a chance to indulge in their favourite flavour.

Come visit us at 62 Evan Street, Penrith Mon - Wed: 8am - 7pm Thu - Sat: 9am - 10pm Sun: 9am - 6pm

y

delicious v ariety of Pizza, K ebabs , Hambur gers , Chips and m uch mor e!

Top list of restaurants to choose from Satisfy every craving at Fat Jak’s today

Make your way down to Tench Reserve and discover all the decadent food options East Bank has to offer!

This hub of all things restaurants and hospitality is truly a destination in its own right.

The food options are endless and give customers the opportunity to experience an array of different cultures.

At Onshore Fresh Seafood, the food is as fresh as can be and the burgers are perfectly juicy for all customers to enjoy.

Lone Star will always treat its customers with a dose of good old-fashioned hospitality where it is guaranteed the flavours are bigger than Texas.

Riverbank Bar and Dining always promises to deliver the freshest seafood and delicious burgers, dine here for a perfect dinner.

The Coffee Club is a staple with three decades of really good food, great service and excellent coffee – all customers are guaranteed to enjoy their time here.

At Maldini’s, experience the ultimate Italian alfresco dining experience with the

picturesque backdrop of the Blue Mountains.

Goji offers a fusion of exotic flavours from across Asia, meaning there is a perfect choice for every customer.

Masala Kitchen is a modern Indian cuisine that prides itself on being unedited and unapologetically authentic.

After dinner, Tella Balls Dessert Bar has the perfect sweet treat with their brioche style donut balls that come in a variety of different flavours and is served in many ways.

Visit the East Bank website at www.theeastbank.com.au to book your perfect dining experience

Fat Jak’s, a Melbourne-born quick-service restaurant, known for its bold flavours and unique twists on classic comfort food, has made its way to Penrith, bringing with it a taste of what has made the brand a fan-favourite in Victoria.

With eight locations already thriving in Melbourne, Fat Jak’s is excited to introduce Sydney-siders to its mouth-watering offerings.

The FJ menu boasts an impressive range, including signature beef, chicken, veggie and vegan burgers, decadent loaded fries, loaded parmies and chicken waffles. For those looking for something extra indulgent, the loaded desserts range are a must-try!

But Fat Jak’s isn’t just about great food – it’s about creating a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

The brand has built a reputation for being more than just a place to grab a meal; it’s a community hub where friends and families come together to enjoy good food and good company.

With its new location at Nepean Village in Penrith, Fat Jak’s is ready to become your go-to spot for casual dining. There’s literally something to satisfy every craving… about a hundred times over.

Drop by and experience what has made this Melbourne favourite a huge hit – now right here in Penrith.

Great coffee is just around the corner

Grab your morning coffee fix or afternoon sweet treat at Coffee Corner & Co in the Jordan Springs Shopping Centre.

Here, they cater to the morning coffee lovers and after school milkshake

enthusiasts while still serving high quality breakfast and lunch options every day of the week.

Everyone’s taste buds will be satisfied through the wide range of food and drink options – from mum to young kids, there is definitely something for everyone at Coffee Corner & Co.

Open every day, Coffee Corner & Co is serving from 4.30am to 5pm Monday through to Saturday and 6am to 4pm on Sundays. Whenever that café craving hits, Coffee Corner & Co is ready to serve.

With the choice of both indoor and outdoor seating the whole family can visit and enjoy their delicious food and drink.

Just one of the reasons to visit Coffee Corner & Co is their budget friendly ‘Grab and Go breakfast Specials’.

For just $10, you can grab a gourmet muffin, ham and cheese toastie, ham and cheese croissant or bacon and egg ciabatta roll with a regular coffee, hot chocolate or chai latte.

Head down to the Jordan Springs Shopping Centre now to taste their decadent

Make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @coffeecornercojs to keep updated on their

Try the freshest and best seafood

Welcome to Barnacle Bill, Penrith – your local family seafood restaurant committed to serving quality seafood. Since its inception in 1970, Barnacle Bill has become synonymous with capturing the essence of Australian seafood experience, offering a diverse menu that caters to a range of palates.

Their menu features timeless classics like fish and chips alongside seafood platters all paired with their signature tartare sauce, the perfect complement to their delicious seafood. Whether you dine-in or take away, Barnacle Bill’s success can be attributed to the high quality of seafood used. They offer premium selections like Hake, Whiting, Garfish and Barramundi. Their fish is prepared to your liking – battered, crumbed, or grilled – all made fresh to order. Each fillet is seasoned with their secret blend, for a unique flavour you’ll love.

Their Snack Packs, Sea Chests, Treasure Chests, Crew Packs, and combos

are designed to suit every appetite, offering great value without compromising on taste. From a light bite to a family feast, there’s something for everyone.

For their vegan friends, they’ve got options that have earned rave reviews, from veggie burgers to plant-based schnitzels. Pair your meal with their famous

chips, potato scallops, or fresh salads and desserts, and you’ll see why Barnacle Bill is known for delivering great value.

Barnacle Bill in Penrith is more than just a meal – it’s a tradition of quality, taste, and unbeatable value.

Come in today and see why they’ve been a trusted name for over five decades.

Shop 2, 98 Henry S reet Penrith

All tastes covered at The Coffee Club!

When it comes to the perfect place for a coffee or a bite to eat, it’s hard to go past The Coffee Club.

Your most difficult decision will be choosing which Coffee Club to visit: the special location alongside the Nepean River, or the drive-thru Coffee Club at Cranebrook.

The Coffee Club Nepean River offers more than just a meal – it presents an experience.

The view of the river, particularly during sunset, creates a perfect backdrop for an evening out. The ambiance is both relaxed and sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a casual catch-up with friends.

The Coffee Club at Cranebrook offers convenience with its drive-thru, but the relaxation of a spacious dining room too, so you can pick what dining experience you’re after.

The menu at The Coffee Club is a delightful fusion of contemporary Australian cuisine with global influences.

Whether you’re a fan of hearty breakfasts, light lunches, or substantial dinners, there’s something to satisfy every palate. For dinner, the menu boasts a variety of options, from

and

to vegetarian delights and gourmet burgers.

One must-try is the Grilled Barramundi, which is perfectly cooked and served with a fresh, zesty Thai salad.

Their pastas, like the creamy Chicken Carbonara, are also crowd-pleasers, rich in flavour and generously portioned.

The Coffee Club is more than just a place to eat; it’s

a destination where good food, excellent service, and a stunning location come together to create a truly delightful experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, dining at The Coffee Club should be on top of your list.

succulent steaks

seafood dishes

Western Property

VENTILATION MUST-KNOWS

When it comes to making your home comfortable and energy-efficient, having good ventilation is important.

Whether building from the ground up or embarking on a renovation of an existing home, understanding the importance of ventilation and how it affects energy ratings should be a priority for Australian homeowners,

no matter what part of the country they live in.

Leading ventilation experts, Fanco explain the importance of proper ventilation for your home and how you can meet the 7-star rating requirements, including guidance on selecting the right accessories and options to ensure

your ventilation system operates efficiently.

The role of ventilation Ventilation, put simply, is the deliberate introduction of outdoor air into your home. A good ventilation system raises oxygen levels, manages indoor temperatures, helps prevent condensation and mould growth within the home, and remove dust, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from household products that can negatively impact health. In a country with extreme temperatures, proper airflow helps regulate indoor climate, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems, enhancing both comfort and energy efficiency.

The 7-star rating: what it means for homeowners

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) in Australia provides a star rating system for homes, ranging from 0 to 10 stars, based on their energy efficiency. A 7-star rating signifies a high level of energy efficiency, meaning the home requires less energy for heating and cooling, which translates to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental footprint.

For homeowners to achieve a 7-star rating on the ventilation of their new build or when renovating an older home, here’s what you need to know:

1. Compliance with building codes: New homes must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and other relevant standards.

2. Optimised design: Maximising natural ventilation involves strategic placement of windows, doors, and vents to facilitate airflow. Cross-ventilation, where air can flow from one side of the house to the other, is particularly effective.

3. Energy-efficient appliances: Using energy-efficient ventilation systems, such as exhaust fans and heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), can help maintain air quality while minimising energy consumption. HRV units such as the Fanco Habitat Expert and the Habitat Expert Wifi bring in fresh, filtered air and help keep your home at a comfortable temperature efficiently.

4. Sealing and insulation: Proper sealing and insulation are crucial for maintaining energy efficiency. However,

they must be balanced with effective ventilation to prevent the buildup of stale air and moisture. Fanco’s Hybrid Series exhaust fans are ideal for extracting moisture-laden, stale air, ensuring your home remains fresh and energy-efficient.

Ventilation accessories for optimal energy performance For homeowners aiming to boost their home’s ventilation and exhaust fan efficiency, this means recognising the benefits of employing the right accessories to help achieve the 7-star rating. Proper ducting is essential for preventing energy loss and maintaining efficient airflow throughout your home. It minimises leaks and ensures consistent air pressure. Vents and covers are crucial for evenly distributing air and preventing blockages, which in turn can make heating or cooling systems work harder than required, consuming more energy and contributing to higher household energy bills.

Ensuring your home remains a sanctuary of comfort and wellbeing starts with good ventilation practices. For more information visit www.fanco.com.au.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park

CONTACT:

Oran Park Sales Office

Jeff Webb • 9043 7500

OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK

What is so great about this property?

Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.

Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its

foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day.

With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.

Who does this property suit?

Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes.

Tell us about the suburb this property is in?

Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.

Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers. Visit today!

You don’t have to sacrifice style & beauty to create an asthma & allergy friendly home for your family

Our range of flooring options will give your home a breath of fresh air

Visit us in-store or view at choicesflooring.com

Choices Flooring Penrith 131 Coreen Ave, Penrith • (02) 4731 4242

Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.

PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0

FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME

WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE

Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me

PROTECTING OUR SENIOR CITIZENS FROM SCAMS

Our elderly are at the mercy of con people and hackers. As a company, we provide Internet and phones to several retirement villages.

One of the residents called us recently, quite upset, as they had lost all their savings to a scammer. It is not a new scam – it has been around for quite some time. Unfortunately, people still fall for it, so for scammers, it is simply a numbers game. Contact enough people, and they will eventually find a victim.

The scam involves pretending to be from a reputable company. Microsoft is commonly used, as are NBN and Telstra, but realistically, it could be any company.

In this case, they represented themselves as being from Microsoft. They indicated unusual activity on their computer and needed to be investigated. These guys are good. There is enough information on the Internet about most people so that they can make you feel that they know all about your account.

The scammers managed to not only convince the victim to transfer money to them to fix the ‘issue’, but also to do it while they were remotely connected. This allowed them to capture the victim’s banking details. After they disconnected the call, they wiped out the victim’s bank account, leaving them in a devas-

tating financial situation. Unfortunately, it is almost always the elderly who get caught in this sort of scam. I have told parents on both sides of my family that if anyone calls and asks for access to their computer, they should hang up immediately.

Worst case, if they are unsure, I advise them to have the person

ring me. Guess what? That call never comes.

No companies, banks included, will ask for remote access to a computer to resolve an issue based on an unsolicited phone call. Please educate this older generation to ignore these calls, hang up and contact the family to discuss the call. If you are still determining, you can ring the relevant company directly on their phone number from their website to discuss. Do not use a number the scammer provided you on the phone.

This sort of thing upsets me; this generation is both more trusting and more confused about technology, making them the ideal target.

I am now offering to run free courses at retirement villages to highlight what to do. If there is any interest, reach out to me. There was some good news: While it took a while, the bank was able to recover the funds. But this is more of an exception than the rule.

The Experts

KELLIE TICKNER

Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

UNDERSTANDING URINARY ISSUES IN CATS

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) encompasses a range of conditions affecting a cat’s bladder and urethra. These issues can lead to discomfort, pain, and serious health concerns, making it vital for cat owners to recognise the signs and understand the causes for early intervention.

Symptoms of urinary tract problems

A common indicator of urinary issues in cats is a change in litter box behaviour, such as urinating outside the box or more frequently. If your cat exhibits any of the following symptoms, prompt veterinary care is essential.

• Difficulty or pain when urinating, sometimes with vocalisation.

• Straining before, during, or after urination.

• Passing small amounts of urine or none at all, which is a medical emergency.

• Blood in the urine.

FOOT INJURIES IN CHILDREN

Foot injuries in children are surprisingly common, particularly among active children involved in sports and physical activities. Among the most frequent injuries are sprains, fractures, and growth plate issues. Understanding these conditions and how to address them can significantly impact a child’s long-term health and mobility.

Common injuries and their management

Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, often due to sudden twists or impacts. In children, the most common site is the ankle. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Immediate care involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.), but it’s essential to consult a podiatrist to assess the severity and prevent future issues.

Fractures or broken bones can result from direct trauma or repetitive stress. They often present with

severe pain, swelling, and bruising. Common fractures in children include those in the metatarsals (foot bones) and the tibia or fibula (ankle bones). X-rays are crucial for diagnosing fractures, and while some may heal with a cast, others may require more intensive treatment.

Prevention and professional care

To prevent these injuries, ensure children wear appropriate footwear that provides adequate support and cushioning. Regularly replacing worn-out shoes and encouraging proper warm-up exercises before

• Behavioural changes, such as increased aggression

Causes of FLUTD

FLUTD can occur in cats of any age but is more common in middle-aged and overweight cats. Causes include:

• Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): Inflammation of the bladder and urethra without a known cause, a frequent contributor to urinary issues.

• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs).

• Urinary Crystals or Bladder Stones: These can cause blockages or irritation in the urinary tract.

• Urethral Plugs: Blockages that prevent urine from passing.

• Stress: Environmental or psychological stress can exacerbate urinary problems.

• Cancer: Bladder or urethral cancer, though less common, can also cause FLUTD.

Often, FLUTD is caused by

HEALTH

ESTER ISKANDAR

One Point Health 4732 5188

activities can also reduce injury risk. Additionally, teaching children proper techniques for sports and physical activities can help prevent strain and overuse injuries.

If a child experiences persistent pain, difficulty walking or symptoms that don’t improve with home care, seeking professional podiatric advice is crucial. A podiatrist can provide a comprehensive assessment and a tailored treatment plan, which may include custom-made orthotics or physical therapy. Early intervention and proper management are key to ensuring that children recover fully and continue to enjoy their activities without long-term consequences.

multiple factors, including urine concentration, diet, stress, and other health conditions.

Diagnosis and treatment

If your cat shows symptoms of urinary issues, a veterinarian will take a comprehensive history, perform a physical exam, and collect urine samples for testing. Treatment varies depending on the cause and may include pain relief, increasing water intake, dietary changes, antibiotics, and bladder supplements. In cases of urethral obstruction, emergency unblocking is required.

Preventing urinary problems

To reduce the risk of urinary issues in your cat, consider the following tips:

• Increase water intake: Ensure your cat has access to fresh water, using multiple bowls or a water fountain.

• Reduce stress: Minimise environmental stressors and consider using a pheromone diffuser to calm your cat.

• Feed moisture-rich food: Wet food is beneficial for maintaining urinary health.

• Maintain a clean litter box: Scoop the litter box twice daily and clean it thoroughly once a week, keeping it in a quiet location.

• Keep your cat at a healthy weight: Regular exercise and an enriched environment help prevent urinary issues in overweight cats.

Urinary issues in cats are common but can be serious. By recognising the signs and taking preventive measures, you can help keep your cat healthy. For further advice and treatment, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL!

At Orchard Hills V we understand that your pet is a cherished family member why we offer comprehensive and affordable pet care ser animals across the Penrith district.

We offer:

• Vaccinations

• Radiography

• Microchipping

• Surger y

• Dental care

• Ultrasound

Contact us!

ills Veterinar y Hospital, d that your pet is a ily member. That’s t care ser vices to s district ions aphy pping a nd s!

Phone 4736 2027

6 2027

49 Wentwor th Road,Orchard Hills

Road Orchard Hills

Monday - Friday: 8am-7pm | Saturday: 8am-2pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9am-3pm

«

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

If there’s one thing in your makeup routine you probably don’t do enough of, it’s washing your brushes. Sure, some people probably do it once every week or two, but when did you last do it? Last month? Last year? Never? Whilst washing your brushes feels like a lot of effort for little reward, not doing so frequently can not only damage the brushes themselves, but can also have a negative impact on your skin.

So, if reading this has reminded you to pick up your brush cleaner

again, or if you’re looking for a new routine, here are my dos and don’ts.

Do:

• Wash your brushes as frequently as you can. It’s recommended to do this weekly, however if you wear makeup less often, this may not be needed.

• Wet the brushes with warm water before applying any soap to loosen makeup residue.

• Apply your soap or cleanser to the bristles. Whilst you can get specific makeup brush cleaners or shampoos, like the MAC Brush Cleaner or the Blend-

ercleanser Solid Lavender Sponge & Brush Cleanser, they’re not completely necessary. I like to use a gentle shampoo, but you can also use antibacterial soap!

• Clean smaller brushes together. Whilst cleaning face brushes may require some elbow grease, small eye brushes or concealer brushes can be washed together to save time.

• Ensure that the brush is totally clean before leaving it to dry. Though it can sometimes take a while, especially for larger or more dense brushes, it’s important to continue swirling it in your palm or on a cleansing mat like the Sigma Spa Brush Cleaning Glove until the water comes out clear – not coloured, milky or soapy.

• After squeezing out the excess water, dry your brushes upside down, or laying flat.

• Leave your brushes an adequate amount of time before using them again. I like to leave mine laying flat overnight with the bristles hanging off the edge of a counter or chair, checking them and reshaping them when I can.

Don’t:

• Use too harsh of a soap when washing your makeup brushes. Though it doesn’t seem like they require much care, brushes can be expensive – you don’t want to ruin them!

• Dry your brushes vertically. Though it may seem easy to clean them up and then throw them right back in your brush holder or case, this is another surefire way to damage the handle and loosen the bristles.

• Be too aggressive when cleaning them. Makeup applies best with clean, soft brushes – not spiky, misshapen ones!

• Dunk your brushes in water completely to clean them. Whilst, of course, it’s OK to get the brush bristles wet, submerging the entire brush can loosen the glue and cause the bristles to fall out.

Relax & Unwind

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19 JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

bohoastro.com

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

Each New Moon indicates a shift of gear in a particular area of life. This week the heavens highlight a fresh start involving money, an intimate relationship or trust issues. You’ll feel rather restless, so it’s a good time to travel, experiment and explore. You’ll also be extra curious as you dig up gossip, uncover a secret or start some controversial conversations! However – if you are too blunt and impatient with a loved one – expect some unpleasant blowback.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The New Moon highlights children, teenagers, friendships and leisure activities. There are also opportunities for advancement via connections within your local community, especially if you are proactive. But it will take creative teamwork and sustained effort to turn a lucky break into a long-term success. It’s also time to get some firm direction, as you formulate your personal goals and dreams for the future. Remember – you can’t hit a target if you haven’t got one.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The Sun (your ruler) and New Moon shine a bright spotlight on financial matters. Lions are drawn to luxury-living, and you’re inclined to buy expensive things that you don’t really need. This week, do your best to avoid being an impulsive binge shopper. The more creatively and proactively you nurture your nest egg, the more it will gradually grow. Sunday’s Sun/Saturn opposition could (temporarily) create difficulties and dent confidence, so pace yourself.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

The early week New Moon highlights your hopes and wishes zone, so be proactive about setting goals, dreaming dreams, and creating your preferred future. It’s also a good time to fire up an old friendship or work on solving problems in a troubled relationship. Positive changes are coming, as you focus on projects that make your heart sing. Be inspired by Beyonce (who turns 43 on Wednesday), “As soon as I accomplish one thing, I just set a higher goal.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Close relationships and joint ventures are set to improve, as the Sun and New Moon activate your partnership zone. But Tuesdays’ nebulous Mars/Neptune square could temporarily scramble your inner compass and blow you off course, especially involving personal projects and domestic matters. You need to dream inspiring dreams and set longterm goals … and then draw up a detailed plan to follow. Daydreaming will only get you halfway there!

GEMINI

22 TO JUNE 21

The week starts with Mars and Jupiter both jumping through your sign, which boosts Gemini magnetism. And then Mercury and Uranus rev up your tendency to unpredictable behaviour. You’ve got the power to inspire others and transform your own life, so do your best to find appropriate ways to let off steam and choose positive and challenging projects to channel your energy into. Otherwise, you’ll just drive other people crazy with your capricious ways!

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The silvery New Moon lights up your sign, so it’s the perfect week to update your wardrobe, change your appearance, launch a project, apply for a job or start a new phase of your life. Personal projects, ambitious work goals and dynamic friendships are also highlighted. On Saturday, too much nervous energy and impatience could disrupt a trip, as Uranus squares your ruler Mercury. And the Sun/Saturn opposition could complicate a relationship on Sunday.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Have you been dragging your heels at work? Your career is set to improve, as the early week New Moon signals an exciting new chapter. So make the most of any fresh ideas, professional projects or job opportunities that come your way. But the Mercury/Uranus square increases exuberance and decreases patience. So slow down, and be careful you don’t over-indulge, over-exaggerate, over-promise or over-commit, especially involving travel and work.

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

New Moon week is the ideal time to ditch bad habits and start afresh. It’s a juggle to get everything done but keep calm and don’t lose your cool! You’re unusually focused, but are you focusing on the right things? Work, health, wellbeing, diet and fitness are the main areas where you need to make some overdue changes and adjustments. But – if you are too hasty and hot-headed – you could find yourself in the middle of an argument, an accident, or crisis.

Mars moves into your sign on Thursday, which will help you approach challenges in a proactive way. And the New Moon encourages you to talk through issues with the people around you. Venus is visiting your domestic zone, so it’s time to enjoy home sweet home, as you cocoon in cosy comfort or entertain in low-key style. Your quote for the week is from Virgo philosopher Goethe, “He is the happiest, be he king or peasant, who finds peace in his home.”

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Are you frustrated by ongoing problems at work? Mighty Mars is moving through your career zone (from Thursday until November 4) so it’s time to take on challenges with a proactive approach and a courageous attitude. At the moment, fortune definitely favours the bold and the brave! And with Venus (your patron planet) transiting through your sign, (until September 23) it’s also a good week to tap into the well of creativity and inspiration, without and within.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Many Capricorns can expect a challenging week, as your ruler Saturn opposes the Sun. But the Sun and New Moon also activate your education and adventure zone, so start thinking about where you’d like to go travelling in the future. And don’t let anyone dim your curiosity or diminish your dreams! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Beyonce, “Your self-worth is determined by you. Don’t depend on someone telling you who you are.”

MAGIC OF MAGENTA

Long a Central Coast favourite, Magenta Shores has recently completed an extensive renovation project, giving the property a luxury makeover with sophistication at the forefront.

What better time then to pack up the car and head about 90 minutes out of Sydney to stay for a few nights.

Nestled along the pristine coastline of the Central Coast, New South Wales, Pullman Magenta Shores Resort has long been revered for its picturesque setting and world-class hospitality. Now, following months of meticulous enhancements, the resort emerges rejuvenated, boasting a seamless blend of modern elegance and coastal charm.

You feel it as soon as you walk into reception, with a welcoming vibe and atmosphere and sashes of class everywhere you look.

After checking in, we headed over to the Shallows Bar for a couple of beverages – a great place to relax after playing golf at the course on site, or maybe even a spot of tennis; or whatever other activity you’ve stumbled across.

Shallows is very much a casual space and also has food options, including pizza.

“THE ACCOMMODATION CERTAINLY EVOKES A SENSE OF TRANQUILLITY AND LUXURY”

We stayed in a three bedroom executive apartment, perfect for a medium-sized family looking to create a base for a few days of relaxation and recreation.

All three bedrooms are upstairs, allowing the downstairs area to be the main hub with a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor area to enjoy a few beverages or some home cooked meals (there’s full oven and stove facilities).

The bedrooms are comfortable and the

master features an impressive ensuite and its own balcony (so make sure you claim that one if you’re heading away for a trip!).

The accommodation certainly evokes a sense of tranquillity and luxury, featuring contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, artworks and complemented by breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

On night one we headed into The Entrance – just a short five minute drive – for a pub meal. Being so close to both The Entrance and Long Jetty, you’ve got a whole range of dining options for a few nights away, plus a supermarket to stock up on supplies.

Breakfast both mornings was your typical hotel buffet fare, and the pancake machine certainly got a workout from the youngest member of the travelling party.

My wife headed straight to Vie Spa, inviting guests and members of the general public to embark on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation. Featuring an array of indulgent treatments inspired by traditional wellness practices utilising iKOU and Pevonia products, Vie Spa at Magenta Shores offers a sanc-

tuary where guests can unwind and restore balance to mind, body, and soul. She gave it a strong 10/10.

In the warmer months the lagoon pool is absolutely stunning, but there’s still swim-

SHORES

ming on offer when the weather is a little cooler – with an indoor heated pool and accompanying steam room.

For dinner we headed to Barretts Restaurant, inside the hotel, where you’ll find an ever-changing, seasonal menu of delicious fare. We enjoyed the cheesy bread and crispy pork belly for entrée, while the Tandoori Chicken Supreme and Moroccan Spiced Lamb Backstrip highlighted the main menu.

Top it off with a couple of cocktails or a bottle of wine, and you’ve got a long, enjoyable dinner all sorted.

And if there’s room, I can certainly recommend the baked cheesecake with yuzu caramel – absolutely delicious.

The best thing about Magenta Shores is that it’s perfect no matter what size your party. If you’re a couple looking for a weekend away, or a large family looking to celebrate with friends and family, everyone is catered for.

Fill your days with a bit of golf or tennis, a swim in the pool or simply relaxing in your apartment. Go for a walk, feed the ducks, ride up to the nearby lighthouse. You certainly won’t be bored.

The writer stayed as a guest of Magenta Shores.

Wields (infl uence)

35. Plans (4,3)

37. Croaks

38. Retirement do (4-3)

40. Journalist’s slant

41. Iraqi currency

42. Delve

43. Football superstar, ... Beckham

44. Folk duo, ... & Garfunkel

47. Mind child (4-3)

51. Light-bulb developer

52. Scraped by (4,2)

53. Colonial realm

54. Small songbirds

58. Disgust

59. Martini ingredient

61. Cutting ray

63. Duty spell

64. Fact

65. Punched

66. Uproar

68. Tusk material

71. Summon up (memories)

72. Non-coms (1,1,2)

74. Blokes

76. Handful (of daisies)

78. Urged on, ... up

80. Pint-sized

83. Wheel-shaft projection

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

Word Search

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

Theme: NUTS

ACORN

BLANCHED

BRAZIL NUT

CANDIED

CANDLENUT

CHESTNUT

COCONUT

CRACK

FILBERT

FOLIC ACID

HAZELNUT

HICKORY

MACADAMIA

NUTRITIOUS NUTSHELL

OIL

PECAN

PINE NUTS

PISTACHIO

RAW ROASTED

SEED

SMOKED SNACK WHOLE

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about western Sydney eateries and bars in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. Once located in Parramatta was what famous 24-hour restaurant with a newspaper theme?

2. At what Penrith bar could you order a Wok or a Tommy?

3. Elton Chong is a ‘dive bar’ located in what suburb?

4. What’s the name of the famous American doughnut chain that

opened its first Australian store in Penrith in 2003?

5. ‘Gogglebox Australia’ talent Jad owns which Parramatta restaurant?

6. Now more than 40-years-old, what is widely considered Penrith’s longest-running Chinese restaurant, located on High Street?

Krispy Kreme

Happy Inn

New displays and old favourites! 4WD SHOW

The Sydney 4WD and Adventure Show is coming up this September at Sydney Dragway, Eastern Creek.

The Sydney 4WD and Adventure Show is the major 4WDing event for NSW and is part of a national group that covers similar events in Perth and Adelaide.

Show Director Peter Woods said the Sydney 4WD and Adventure Show is the one-stop place for visitors to see and purchase a variety of products and services relating to the outdoor leisure industry.

He said the Show featured all the big brands in caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes, new 4WDs and SUVs, camping and 4WD accessories, fishing gear and more.

He said the event is an also interactive experience that equips visitors with the gear, the advice, and the inspiration to get out there and explore.

“This is the big outdoor show for NSW and is held at the awesome Sydney Dragway in Eastern Creek. The venue is perfect for a Show like this as we can offer free parking, and plenty of room

for displays and attractions,” he said.

“The Show has been steadily growing for the past couple of years, and in 2024 we will have a record number of exhibitors and will be introducing new entertainment and attractions for visitors to get involved in!”

The 4WD and Adventure Show is designed as an

interactive event where visitors can get equipped with knowledge and skills for their own adventures – as well as having a bit of fun! In 2024, the Show will bring back favourite attractions as well as introducing new activations.

The Sydney 4WD and Adventure Show is held at Sydney Dragway, Eastern Creek, and offers free parking onsite. The Show is on Friday, September 6 from 9am-5pm, Saturday, September 7 9am-5pm and Sunday, September 8 9am-4pm. Tickets are $22 for adults, $12 for children, $18 concession and $55 for families. 2-day and 3-day passes are also available. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. More information is available at sydney.4wdshow. com.au.

count

We are a family run and operated Smash Repair business found at the foot of the Blue Mountains. 2 years ago, we decided to embark a new journey with a range of LINE-X Protective Coatings.

WHAT IS LINE-X?

LINE-X is a polyurea protective coating that can be used for many aspects. Whilst it is known for having a rich heritage in automotive applications it can extend further than that . The product has extreme features. It is flame retardant , UV Stable, and can handle high impact and abrasion. It has a high chemical resistance as well as a waterproof membrane.

WHAT CAN YOU LINE-X?

@emusmash_linex.emuplains

@emusmash_linex.emuplains

ea coating is ood, metal, fiberglass, ete or plastic it will protect the ong and reliable. oduct is often applied to tubs, s, vans, 4x4 accessories, chest e but it does not om mining equipment , ans, security protection, y and much more, our needs.

www.ecoxgear.com.au

Emu Smash LINE-X Emu Plains

The need for speed

Ultimate Father’s Day gift: Get dad a trip in the fast lane

If your dad loves life in the fast lane then there’s probably no better gift this Father’s Day than a European Supercars experience through Adrenaline.

Australia’s largest adventure marketplace has just launched the nation’s first European Supercars experience, with the high-octane adventure set to thrill adrenaline seekers and speed enthusiasts nationwide.

With millions of viewers tuning into Supercars races in 2023 – and a record-breaking Australian Grand Prix earlier this year – it’s clear that Aussies have rekindled their passion for speed.

Data from Adrenaline has shown that demand for V8 Supercars experiences is soaring too, with a remarkable 18.8 per cent increase year-on-year.

For the first time ever, Aussies can take the wheel of iconic supercars like Ferrari,

Lamborghini and Lotus, feeling the exhilaration of high-speed racing on circuits.

This driving experience, which is available at Sydney Motorsport Park at Eastern Creek, is set to offer unmatched thrills and create unforgettable memories.

“We’re so excited to be bringing this incredible experience to Australia,” Head of Brand and Marketing at Adrenaline, Toni Westlake said.

“Whether you’re a passionate car enthusiast or just looking for an extraordinary adventure, our European Supercars experience promises to be the ultimate highspeed thrill.

“We can’t wait for people to dive in and try it!”

To find out more information or to pick up a European Supercars experience for your Dad or father figure this Father’s Day, visit www. adrenaline.com.au.

Father’s Day is this Sunday, September 1 – so book fast!

PANTHERS EARN PROMOTION

Story continued from » p.96

“Our goal all season was to make the Grand Final and, if we did that, we would be promoted to Division 1 next year. We put so much emphasis on that all year.

“After we made the Grand Final, there was no pressure anymore and it changed how the players approached the game on Sunday not having that stress.”

Following the Grand Final, Panthers young gun Harrison Turner was named the MVP of the game thanks to a 23-point performance, while Jett Hickson was named MVP of the entire competition. Hickson, along with teammate Lachlan Stone, were also named in the All Star 5 Team.

“The boys are really good at playing for each other,” Porter said.

“If someone is having an off game, someone else will step up.”

After conquering Division 2 in the most emphatic way possible, the Panthers will rise to Division 1 next year where an all-new challenge awaits. Porter said he’d loved to see the side stay together and make even more history.

“They are a committed bunch of players, and they train very hard,” he said.

“Every challenge we had this year, they stepped up. Yes, Division 1 will be harder, but that will give them more fire to train harder and I do think they’ll be able to handle it quite well.”

A new motor racing experience is the perfect gift for Father’s Day.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Athletes are the pride of Penrith

The Olympic Games captivated the nation a few weeks ago and they were officially our most successful ever. And now, us Australians get to do it all over again when we cheer on our mighty Paralympians at the Paris Paralympic Games.

160 athletes across 17 sports will form the next chapter of Australia’s vibrant story at the Paralympics, with six of the inspirational Aussies competing in the French capital over the next 10 days having a special local connection either through birth, residency or training base.

From August 29 to September 8, the Weekender encourages

you to gather up your green and gold once again and cheer on your local athletes to glory.

Back for his third Paralympic Games is Penrith-born Para-archer Jonathon Milne. The 38-year-old, who has tetraplegia following a diving accident, will look to add to his bronze medal from Rio when he competes in the Individual Compound event in Paris.

Also born in Penrith and back for his third Paralympics is Para-athletics star James Turner. The 28-year-old, who lives with cerebral palsy, will race in the 100m and 400m. Turner already has two gold medals and one silver medal from previous Paralympics.

Over in the pool, three-time Paralympian Paige Leonhardt will be doing Penrith

proud when she competes in three Para-swimming events. The 23-year-old, who has an intellectual impairment due to a car accident, will race in the 100m Fly, 100m Breast and 200m Medley in Paris. Making her Paralympic debut is fellow Penrith-born Para-swimmer Ella Jones. The 23-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, will aim for a medal in the 100m Back and 400m Free events.

While he no longer resides in the local area due to relocating to Queensland, Penrith Para-rowing legend Erik Horrie returns to the Paralympic arena for the fourth time. The 44-year-old paraplegic, who trained every day at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, will look to better his three previous silver medals when he

contests the Single Scull event.

Finally, Penrith-born Para-cyclist Amanda Reid is back for her fourth Paralympic Games. The 27-yearold, who has cerebral palsy, will race in the 500m Time Trial, Individual Time Trial and Road Race. Reid has been very successful at previous Paralympics, winning gold in Tokyo and silver in Rio.

As touched on earlier with our local athletes, the Australian team is brimming with experience of a combined 196 Paralympic Games appearances, including 11 appearances for other nations.

The team is 56 per cent male and 44 per cent female. 61 athletes (38 per cent) will make their Paralympic debut, and the average age of the Australian athletes in Paris will be 31.3 years.

“This is a team that all Australians can get behind,” Australian Paralympic Team Chef de Mission, Kate McLoughlin said.

“They are incredible athletes, exceptional human beings and a wonderful example of what can be achieved with determination and resilience.

“This team has taken years to assemble, and I hope everyone who has played a part in supporting and developing our athletes feels a great sense of pride when they see them representing Australia in Paris.

“This team is ready and raring to compete on the biggest stage of all and make all Australians proud.”

The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games will be broadcast live on Channel Nine, 9Gem, 9Now and streaming on Stan Sport.

Teen archer shoots for the stars

Emily Griffiths first picked up a bow when she was just three-years-old and hasn’t looked back since.

Celebrating 100 Years of Tennis in Blacktown

If you have a connection to Blacktown Tennis over the past centur y, you are warmly invited to join us in celebrating this special milestone. Come and reminisce, reconnect, and enjoy a cuppa with fellow tennis enthusiasts.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, 12 October 2024

• Time: Noon - 4:00pm

Schedule:

• 12:30pm: Formalities

• Venue: Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope, Tennis Centre Function Room.

• 2:00pm: Demonstration match on Cour t 1, featuring current tennis talents

• 2:00pm - 5:00pm: Cour ts 3 to 10 available for casual play.

Dress Code: Casual

For catering purposes, please RSVP by emailing Yvonne at info@blacktowntennis.com.au or calling 0421 645 286

Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope, Blacktown Leisure Centre Tennis function room, Cnr Sentr y Drive & Stanhope Parkway

We look for ward to seeing the word spread through the tennis community and hope to have a wonder ful afternoon together

“I got a Nerf bow for Christmas one year because I had this weird fascination with bows,” she told the Weekender

While yes, the bow in question was a popular children’s toy and not the $3000 beauty she’s currently holding, it did light a spark inside of Emily that’s still burning brightly more than a decade later.

“Dad always said that when I turned 10, I could go to Penrith and participate in the Try Archery course and ever since then, I’ve been hooked!” Emily said.

“It’s definitely taken some time to get to where I am now, but I truly believe I’ve picked up the sport pretty fast thanks to that toy Nerf bow.

“I remember the minute I picked it up, I wanted to ‘shoot’ my sister and all sorts of things around the house.”

The 14-year-old has been a popular member of Penrith City Archers in Werrington since 2020 and, in 2022, began competing against other kids her age.

Shooting a compound bow, she surprised herself with a third place finish in the National Indoor Championships and followed it up with Gold in the U14 National Youth Target Championship.

With a steep learning curve, Emily was selected to represent Australia in March 2023 for the Trans-Tasman Challenge, which was held in Adelaide. This experience further fuelled her passion for archery and her training increased, resulting in some major results in State and National events.

“I really enjoyed representing Australia,” the Year 9 Richmond High student said.

“I met new people and it was nice to repre-

sent my country for the first time.”

Earlier this year, the teenage sharpshooter enjoyed her best results to-date, taking home a whopping five gold medals at the Archery Australia Youth Championships in Canberra.

Emily said that haul in the nation’s capital was by far her biggest accomplishment of her short but blossoming career.

“I definitely had the determination. I couldn’t believe I won five gold medals at first – it took a while for it to set in,” she said.

“I knew I wanted to come away with something, but I never imagined I’d win all five.”

The latest Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sport Star recipient isn’t done winning either, and she’ll be doing everything in her power to represent on the big stage again.

“I’d love to make the Trans-Tasman team next year and represent Australia over in New Zealand,” Emily said.

“I’d also like to make the team for the 2025 Youth World Championships in Canada.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Amanda Reid.

Ella Jones.

Erik Horrie. James Turner. Jonathon Milne. Paige Leonhardt.

Archer Emily Griffiths. Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

SPORTS SHORTS

Small school is kicking giant goals

SCHOOL SPORT: They may be tiny in size, but Orchard Hills Public School are mighty on the sporting paddock. The school’s basketball, tennis and netball teams have all performed exceptionally well of late, with their mixed netball team progressing to the State PSSA Quarter Finals. The netball team, also known as the Orchard Hills Alpacas, triumphed over Narellan 26-13 to claim the Sydney West/ Sydney South Championship. The result means Orchard Hills will now come up against the best of the best from the Central Coast in the State PSSA Quarter Finals. Meanwhile, the school’s tennis team also reached the State PSSA Quarter Finals earlier this month, but unfortunately lost to Griffith East Public School down in Cowra. Finally, Orchard Hills’ basketball team were also one win shy from advancing to the State PSSA Quarter Finals, but they got knocked out by St Marys 17-14 in the Sydney West Final. Orchard Hills Public School Principal Daniel McMahon is “incredibly proud” of all the students who represented on the big stage.

AFL: The GWS Giants will battle 2024 AFL Minor Premiers the Sydney Swans for the right to host a Preliminary Final in Sydney in

final eight teams will enjoy a pre-Finals bye this weekend to rest and recoup before the AFL Finals Series officially gets underway on Thursday, September 5 when Port Adelaide battle Geelong.

AFLW: The 2024 AFL season kicks off this weekend, with the GWS Giants taking on the Western Bulldogs at Manuka Oval in Canberra. The Round 1 fixture will be played this Saturday afternoon at 1.10pm. The Giants will be looking to return to the Finals arena after finishing 16th last season with just two wins to their name.

AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes will take on Macquarie University this Sunday morning in an Elimination Final at Rosedale Oval.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Jordan Holmes from Queensland National Premier League side Rochedale Rovers for the upcoming 2024/25 A-League season. Holmes is no stranger to the A-League competition, having previously been part of Brisbane Roar for two seasons (2021 to 2023) where he featured in 37 games for the club. At the age of 16, Holmes was signed to English side AFC Bournemouth where he plied his trade for seven years as the club moved from League 1, to Championship and finally the Premier League. The goalkeeper has also represented Australia at a national team level, previously being selected as part of the Young Socceroos and Olyroos squads, making 12 appearances and featuring in the Olympic squad in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Coach Alen Stajcic said he was delighted to bring a local back to the club. “It’s great to be able to bring a western Sydney local back home to support the depth and quality of our team,” he said. “With A-Leagues experience already, Jordan will provide much needed experience to bolster our Goalkeeping stocks.” Growing up supporting the Wanderers, Holmes spoke about how special it was to sign with the club. “When the club came in, as a kid I thought ‘Yeah this is the club to follow’, and it’s nice to see the west of Sydney being appreciated for everything they have to offer out here,” Holmes said. “I am proud to come back from England, to Queensland, and finally back to western Sydney to represent such a great club.”

RUGBY LEAGUE: St Marys will play the Wenty Magpies in the semi-finals of the Ron Massey Cup this Saturday. While the were enjoying last weekend off, Wenty defeated Mounties 22-12 to advance to play this Saturday afternoon at Ringrose Park. A place in the Preliminary Final is up for grabs for the victor. Meanwhile, Brothers Penrith have advanced to the semi-finals of the Sydney Shield after smashing St Marys in a high-scoring affair 58-32 last Saturday. The Saints are now out of the competition, while will face-off against Mounties this Saturday morning at Ringrose Park.

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

AFL: GWS Giants sharpshooter Jesse Hogan

Orchard Hills Public’s netball team have progressed to the State PSSA Quarter Finals.

The tennis team at Orchard Hills Public.

Jesse Hogan has won the Coleman Medal.

PENRITH WINS IT!

One of the local sporting stories of the year has enjoyed a happy ending, with the Penrith Panthers crowned Champions of the Waratah 2 Youth League Men competition.

After completing the regular season undefeated, the young Panthers contin-

ued their unbeaten run in the playoffs to secure the title without dropping a single game all year.

All up, Penrith won 27 from 27 on their way to the Waratah 2 Youth League Men’s Championship last Sunday.

After taking care of the Sydney Comets 65-44 in Saturday’s semi-final, the Panthers returned to the court the following day to play Sutherland in the big one.

Sutherland, the winners of Pool A, took on Penrith, the winners of Pool B, in what was expected to be a battle for the ages. However, the Panthers were simply awesome, proving they were the best team in the league by far with a more than convincing 105-67 victory.

Speaking with the Weekender, Panthers coach Matt Porter said the 38-point thrashing was “truly special” after what

was a lacklustre semi-final performance by their standards.

“Our semi-final on Saturday was a shocker,” he said.

“It wasn’t as though we played bad, we just couldn’t shoot.

“It was our lowest scoring game for the whole season.”

NATHAN TAYLOR