Western Weekender June 30 2023

Your chance to win our Tech Deck prize pack!

See Page 10

SWEET SUCCESS

Egan and Callum McGeachy’s citrus stall has us all reminiscing about yesteryear – and business is booming for the youngsters. Cassidy Pearce reports on page 23

EXCLUSIVE: SPONSORSHIP SHAKE-UP AT PANTHERS AS ICONIC PARTNERSHIP GOES IN NEW DIRECTION

OAK OUT

One of Australian sport’s most recognised major sponsorships is coming to an end, with OAK’s reign as principal partner of the Penrith Panthers to conclude at the end of the year.

OAK has been splashed across the front of Penrith’s jersey since the 2012 NRL season in a deal struck by former Panthers General Manager, Phil Gould.

The partnership became one of

the strongest in Australian sport with Penrith’s rise to Premiership success taking the OAK brand to unprecedented heights.

OAK will remain as a sponsor next year and will still be featured on the jersey but will not be the club’s principal partner.

The Weekender can reveal a new major sponsor has been sourced and will be announced in the upcoming off-season.

It will mark the most significant change to the look of Penrith’s playing strip in years.

“Across the past 12 seasons, the

Panthers partnership with OAK has thrived on shared values of teamwork, innovation, deliv ering high-quality performances, and a deep commitment to our community,” said Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron.

TROY DODDS

OAK confirms departure from front of Penrith’s playing strip

“We have enjoyed a rewarding relationship, including sharing in the success of the Panthers back-to-back NRL premierships over the past two seasons,” Cameron added.

“The Panthers organisation are extremely thankful for the unwavering support of Lactalis Australia, and are grateful to have OAK Plus remain as a major partner with the club next season.”

While Penrith was going through lean times when OAK first came on board, the deal immediately became a huge talking point after the NRL demanded the Panthers stop using an OAK fridge as part of its backdrop for post-match press conferences, a request Gould consistently declined.

would continue to be part of the Panthers moving forward.

“We are the club’s principal partner for the 2023 season, with the OAK Plus logo on the front of the Panthers jersey for a 12th consecutive year. Our partnership with Penrith is one we are very proud of,” she said.

“The success has been built upon shared values based on teamwork, innovation, high quality performances and a shared focus and support of community in NSW

“Entering our 13th year of sponsorship in 2024, we will continue to explore how we can embed innovation and high performance at the core of our partnership.

“OAK Plus with its 30g of dairy protein continues to power the Panthers players to success, aiding muscle recovery both after training and games. Our involvement with the Panthers includes not just branding, but importantly the work we do together in the community, which we look forward to further developing in 2024.”

It is not known exactly where the OAK logo will feature on the club’s playing strip next year with the terms of the brand’s revised deal with the club still being finalised.

OAK’s involvement with Penrith has gone well beyond a traditional sponsorship, with the brand supporting the club’s community programs including Panthers on the Prowl and various clinics.

More rugby league coverage: See the Extra Time centre pull-out.

The club even went as far as hiring “security guards” to protect the fridge in a stunt that earned the Panthers and the OAK brand back page headlines.

The OAK fridge even went on tour – joining players at signing appearances and major press conferences.

When Anthony Griffin was announced as Penrith’s head coach ahead of the 2016 season, the OAK fridge as well as cartons of milk adorned the stage.

Back in 2015, OAK took the unprecedented step of removing its logo from Penrith’s iconic ANZAC Round jersey as a sign of respect for veterans.

Lactalis Australia’s General Manager Marketing, Angela Burr, said the OAK brand

Phil Gould surrounded by OAK.

Panthers CEO Matt Cameron.

The OAK Plus brand features on Penrith’s current jersey.

Photo: NRL Images.

Heartbreak for Swifties

Demand for pop superstar’s Sydney shows leaves desperate fans devastated

Taylor Swift fans have plenty of Bad Blood with Ticketek, and don’t you dare tell them to just Shake it Off.

Tens of thousands of fans missed out on tickets to next year’s concerts after a pre-sale sold out on Wednesday.

They’ll now fight it out in the general public sale, which gets underway this morning.

Fans were left waiting for hours on Ticketek’s website in a never-ending queue. The Weekender was there with Kingswood resident Alice as she eagerly tried her best to get tick-

Heel Pain Experts

ets.

“I feel like I’ve really grown up with Taylor, at every point in my life she’s been able to express specific emotions that I’ve felt that I haven’t been able to express myself, and things I thought nobody else experienced,” she said.

“She’s been one of the only constants in my life, no matter

what I was going through I could always rely on Taylor’s music being there. I love how true she is to herself and how honest she is with her music, and the relationship she has with her fans, and I’ve made most of my long-term friendships through being a fan of Taylor!”

Swift will perform three shows in Sydney and two in Melbourne early next year. They are on track to be the most in-demand concerts Australia has ever experienced.

When we left Alice after two hours in the queue on Wednesday morning, she still hadn’t secured her tickets.

“Watching the US ticket sales go down in real time was so crazy, and I’ve been nervous for this day since then,” she said.

On social media, plenty of eager ticket buyers turned on Ticketek, which doesn’t inform customers how long the queue is likely to be, or when tickets are sold out.

Swift’s Sydney shows are at Accor Stadium in February.

‘Swiftie’ Alice plays the waiting game on Wednesday morning.

Kingswood resident Alice nervously tries to get her hands on Taylor Swift tickets. Photo: Melinda Jane.

the western weekender

PO BOX 7105

South Penrith NSW 2750

P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255

www.westernweekender.com.au

www.facebook.com/westernweekender

www.twitter.com/wwpenrith

westernweekender

The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Government used PR playbook to make flight path announcement

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

Court Reporter: Makayla Muscat @_makaylabm

Photographer: Melinda Sanders

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

Sales Director: Chris Pennisi chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Chris Middleton, Angela Jevdich, Megan Dunn, Darlene Annaleah

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

Production: Ian Beard, Zoe Merrick, 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] 92611930).

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

Politicians have been drawn to Western Sydney Airport quite regularly over the last few years.

The Weekender photographic archive features plenty of smiling pollies sitting in big trucks with ill-fitting hard hats announcing whatever milestone may have been reached in that particular week.

Neither the current Labor Government or the Coalition Government before it was afraid of dragging the metropolitan media out to Badgerys Creek to toot a few horns or put the first scratch on a shovel.

It was curious, then, that the only thing making noise out at the airport site on Tuesday was the construction vehicles building the new gateway to Sydney.

Not a politician in sight.

Curious because perhaps the biggest announcement since the airport was first locked in back in 2014 had just been made: the release of the preliminary flight paths.

The task of releasing the flight paths was handed to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Catherine King, who put out a press release in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Or as Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh put it, the announcement was made “in the dead of night”.

Rather than make the trip to western Sydney for what was an important day in the airport’s progress and how it will be accepted by locals, King held a press conference at her North Ballarat electorate office.

Indeed, she was cheerfully talking about the chilly weather in Ballarat when she jumped on the phone to the ABC’s James Valentine on Tuesday morning.

Here at the Weekender – the newspaper that covers a significant area impacted by noise as a result of planes flying in and out of the airport – we didn’t even get the press release, let alone a head’s up this significant development was coming. Curious again.

In fact, the story about the release of the flight paths was handed to The Daily Telegraph and The Sydney Morning Herald on Tuesday morning, in a classic media play to get the story out there unofficially, before it lands from the Minister.

None of this is unusual but I have to admit, it was a little disappointing to see such a significant development handled by the PR playbook.

At least Shadow Infrastructure and Transport Minister Bridget McKenzie made her way out to Penrith to discuss the impact the flight paths would likely have on the local community.

A little over a decade ago, back when he was Minister for Transport, Anthony Albanese was adamant an airport at Badgerys Creek should not be built.

Around the same time, he was equally insistent that the curfew at the current Sydney airport should not be lifted.

“Of course, no one wants to fly at 3am from Sydney to Melbourne. The curfew does provide some respite for people who live around the airport,” he told ABC Radio back then.

Times change and Albanese has now inherited the Badgerys Creek plan and will, as you would expect, embrace it.

But there’s tough questions around this airport, its flight paths and its lack of curfew that need to be answered.

The government must front up at every opportunity to the local residents this impacts, and they got off to a pretty ordinary start on Tuesday in my view.

This is one of the biggest infrastructure developments in the country and the release of the preliminary flight paths one of its most crucial moments.

It deserved Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to be front and centre at the airport site, being open to direct scrutiny from the Sydney and local media.

It certainly deserved more than the Minister holding a press conference 946km from the new airport in Ballarat.

I have no doubt that should they still be in government in 2026, both Albanese and King will be front and centre when those planes take those flight paths out of Badgerys Creek for the first time.

They wouldn’t miss that PR opportunity for love or money.

News..........................................................1-25

Business.............................................26-28

Extra Time......................................29-44

They weren’t quite hiding, but they certainly used the PR playbook the best they could and carefully managed what is a contentious issue in this part of Sydney.

Like many of you, the first thing I did on Tuesday morning was type my address into the online tracker that the Government also released this week.

It looks like I’ll be waving to a few Qantas and Jetstar pilots from my backyard in a few years’ time.

I’m far from anti-airport, and there is no question the pros outweigh the cons and Penrith will experience some real benefit from this project.

But there’s plenty of concerned people who’ve built their lives here that deserve the best transparency you can offer. The government cannot let them down.

Entertainment..............................45-58

Weekender Living.....................59-61

Business Directory...................62-64

Dharug Connection........................65

Auto..............................................................66

Sport......................................................67-72

“Neither the current Labor Government or the Coalition Government before it was afraid of dragging the metropolitan media out to Badgerys Creek to toot a few horns or put the first scratch on a shovel.”

New Australia Post facility aims to meet growing parcel demand

Australia Post has officially opened its newest Parcel Facility in Kemps Creek. Servicing Greater Western Sydney and the surrounding region, the 33,680sqm facility is the second largest sorting facility in the network and has been designed with future expansion in mind.

The modern, purpose-built facility incorporates parcel processing, pick-up and delivery, as well as transport and linehaul operations, with the planned Western Sydney International Airport located only 15km away.

Housing two large parcel sorters, the Kemps Creek Parcel Facility can process up to 200,000 large and small parcels per day, with the capacity to scale, including by the installation of a small parcel sorter, which would double daily capacity to 400,000 parcels per day.

This latest facility will help Australia Post meet the demands of the rapidly growing area.

The facility positions Australia Post delivery drivers closer to delivery catchments, reducing on-road time and improving services in the catchment area, where drivers

currently deliver 30,000 parcels per day.

Designed with a focus on safety, wellbeing and sustainability, the facility uses the latest sortation technology, enabling increased visibility of customer articles in the network and improving safety by

reducing physical touchpoints. The 400 team members working within and transitioning through the facility can access a multi-faith room, cooking facilities and bike racks to encourage exercise when travelling to and from work.

“With the population of the Greater

Western Sydney region projected to grow, we’re investing in infrastructure and technology that sets us up to support the ever-changing needs of our communities and our customers,” said Paul Graham, Australia Post Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director.

“We are also committed to ensuring our new facilities help deliver upon our 2025 Sustainability Roadmap.

“Together with Goodman we’ve installed a 1,500 kilowatt solar array system on the roof, enabling an estimated carbon emission saving of 1,680 tonnes per annum. Electric vehicle charging stations have been fitted, and we’ve taken additional measures including the installation of rainwater tanks to collect grey water and drip irrigation for native landscaping.”

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland, who helped launch the facility on Tuesday, said Australia Post was a “cherished” institution and welcomed the new facility to the network.

“The Kemps Creek facility is supporting 400 jobs in one of the fastest growing areas of western Sydney, and creating a more efficient delivery network for local residents,” she said.

“I welcome investment in projects like these to ensure Australia Post remains at the cutting edge of parcel delivery and that it continues to meet the needs of all Australians.”

The new Australia Post facility at Kemps Creek.

Flight paths spark noisy

Online tool launched to check airport’s impact

The preliminary flight paths for Western Sydney International Airport have been made public.

The Federal Government has this week released an Aircraft Overflight Noise Tool, which allows local residents to input their address and see the impact of the flight paths. The Tool reveals that Erskine Park will be one of the suburbs in the Penrith Local Government Area most impacted by aircraft noise.

However, the noise impact on local suburbs is unlikely to send us reaching for ear plugs or shouting to be heard, with most suburbs experiencing noise under 70 decibels. That’s about the same level of noise as the washing machine in your laundry.

Two runway models will be used – Runway 05 and Runway 23.

When Runway 05 is used, all aircraft arrive from the south-west and depart to the northeast. When Runway 23 is used all aircraft arrive from the north-east and depart to the south-west.

At night (11pm to 5.30am), when air traffic demand is lower and weather conditions permit, head-to-head Reciprocal Runway Operations (RRO) can be used to minimise the impact of noise on the most heavily populated areas of western Sydney. This means that aircraft would land on Runway 05 – arriving from the south-west – and take-off on Runway 23 – departing to the south-west.

“These preliminary flight paths have been developed by an Expert Steering Group led by my department and including AirServices

Australia, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Department of Defence and airport operator WSA Co,” said Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King.

“Importantly, the preliminary flight paths were developed according to Airspace Design Principles that reflect community feedback from the ‘proof-of-concept’ flight paths released in 2015. These principles include minimising flights over residential areas and reducing the impact on the community of aircraft operations at night.

“My department will hold community information and feedback sessions as well as community information stalls across western Sydney and the Blue Mountains over the coming months. Communities will be able to find out more information and speak with the flight path design team at these events.”

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, said she supported the airport but wanted balance and consultation.

“I have always been a supporter of Western Sydney Airport. It brings jobs to my community, people that have always had to go out of the area to get a job can get a job close to home – this is not what it’s about. It’s about fairness, and balance, and having an aircraft going over the centre, the heart of Penrith, is just not good enough,” she said.

“This is not the only place that is impacted across my community. There are multiple locations including Claremont Meadows, including Cambridge Park, which will have arrivals up to 70 times a day at 2500 feet.

“My community of Penrith, right across western Sydney, deserves to have a thorough consultation process, and for the minister

Community forums to be held

to listen. We want to know if we put in our recommendations, if we fight for this, that the government is listening to us, and they will make change. We’re not going to be going down quietly, that’s for sure.”

The Weekender this week tested a number of addresses in the Aircraft Overflight Noise Tool.

One address in Kingswood near Peppermint Park shows Aircraft arriving into Western Sydney International (WSI) during the day will be descending between 10500 feet (3200 metres) and 8000 feet (2438 metres) above runway level at this location. Some aircraft may fly at a lower altitude depending on weather and operational conditions. Aircraft departing from WSI will be climbing between 5000 feet (1524 metres) and 8000 feet (2438 metres) above runway level at this location. High Street in Penrith would experience up to 37 departures a day with flights between 5000 and 8000 feet.

A further eight arrivals could be experienced overnight.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the community would be “excited” by the flight path announcement, as it brings the opening of the airport closer.

“The investment in Western Sydney International Airport and associated infrastructure is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to provide a range and diversity of jobs for our residents closer to home both now and into the future,” she said on Tuesday.

“Council looks forward to the release of the Environmental Impact Statement so that it can be considered alongside today’s announcement.

“Council will be sharing information about the Australian Government’s planned community information and feedback sessions when they become available to ensure that our residents are informed and

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh and Shadow Infrastructure Minister Bridget McKenzie address the media in Penrith on Tuesday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

DODDS and CASSIDY PEARCE

debate over new airport

• Local MP fumes

have an opportunity to have their say.”

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill has vowed to fight the proposed flight paths, which he says will be a massive concern for the community and environment.

According to Greenhill, about 40,000 Blue Mountains residents in the lower to mid mountains could be affected by the proposed flight paths.

“The flight paths show a complete disregard for the people of the Blue Mountains as well as the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area,” Greenhill said.

“Our quality of life in the Blue Mountains is clearly threatened. Planes will be flying over our homes and our World Heritage National Park 24 hours a day, seven days a week. No curfew. The people of the Blue Mountains deserve better.”

Shadow Infrastructure Minister Bridget McKenzie, who was in Penrith on Tuesday, said more consultation was needed between the Federal Government and the local community.

“We’re not standing here saying that there shouldn’t be an international airport here in western Sydney – we remain absolutely committed to the catalytic investment that we were able to make as a Coalition government,” McKenzie said.

“But, when you are having an airport, there are going to be planes arriving and departing. That is the very nature of having an airport. The methodology that is used in determining where those planes fly in and out of, the consultation with Sydney Airport and how the Sydney airspace is used, and also looking at the typography of the Blue Mountains, which is quite unique, so having a bespoke, deep, embedded consultation with this community is required by the Albanese government.”

She called on Catherine King to visit the impacted communities.

“I think if this Labor government’s track record is anything to go by, they’re not good at consultation. They prefer to hide behind their bureaucrats rather than actually get on the ground and hear from their communities,” McKenzie said.

“I think western Sydney deserves the respect of the minister to come here, on the ground, and hear their concerns, and then work collaboratively and proactively with the experts to come up with the best solution.

“It’s not just about getting the flight path balance right, it’s also about compensation arrangements in a whole raft of areas, and we won’t be able to go into the detail of that until we go much further into the process, but that’s the first step.”

SCAN TO VIEW THE FLIGHT PATHS AND CHECK YOUR ADDRESS

Runway 23 night arrivals and departures.

The night RRO arrivals and departures.

Contact Us

Administration

Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

Contact Centre Open 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777 PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Services

Waste Services 4732 7777

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

Graffiti Hotline Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

24 July – 7pm Online via penrith.city (Ordinary Meeting)

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

WEEK NAIDOC

2 – 9 July 2023

Join us for celebration activities and events across our City.

penrith.city/naidoc

Council Briefs

● Penrith City Council is updating the Our River Masterplan and is inviting the community to help shape the future of the Nepean River Precinct.

The updated Masterplan will be developed with the community to guide the planning and revitalisation of the Nepean River Precinct over the next ten years. Visit one of the listening posts to share what’s important to you, what areas need improving and what you envision for the future:

• Thursday, 6 July, 10am–12pm

Tench Reserve North Playground – Cnr Jamison Road/ Tench Avenue

• Saturday 8 July, 8.30am–10.30am

Tench Reserve – adjacent to Tench Reserve Playground

• Saturday 8 July, 11am–1pm

Great River Walk – Cnr Punt Road/River Road

You can also share your ideas at yoursaypenrith.com.au/ ourriver before 5pm Monday, 24 July 2023.

This project is jointly funded by the NSW Government in association with Penrith City Council.

● Council is preparing a flood study for the Rickabys Creek catchment which includes the suburb of Londonderry and sections of Agnes Banks, Castlereagh, Cranebrook, Llandilo and Berkshire Park.

Your feedback and experience of floods within the catchment is invaluable to us – share your knowledge and complete our survey via yoursaypenrith.com.au/ RickabysCreekFS by Thursday 6 July 2023.

● Council is preparing the Emu Plains Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan and is inviting the community to participate by completing our survey before Thursday, 13 July 2023. The study areas include the suburbs of Emu Plains, Emu Heights and Leonay. For more information and to complete the survey, visit yoursaypenrith.com.au

● It’s back! School holiday fun is just around the corner with Mini Makers. So come down to Triangle Park on Wednesday, 5 July for a day of fun activities and entertainment.

There will be arts and craft, fairy games, face painting, the mobile play van and live music – and the best part, it’s FREE! Activities start from 10am. Go to penrith.city/events

Public Exhibition

Re-exhibition of the Draft Penrith Aerotropolis Development Contributions Plan 2023

Council invites the community and industry to comment on the Draft Penrith Aerotropolis Development Contributions Plan 2023 (draft Penrith Aerotropolis CP).

Penrith City Council is publicly re-exhibiting the draft Penrith Aerotropolis CP, which Council endorsed at its Ordinary Meeting on Monday, 29 May 2023. The draft Aerotropolis CP was previously exhibited in November 2020 and since then, the planning package for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis was finalised and Sydney Water were appointed as the Regional Stormwater Authority. These key changes required significant amendments to the draft Penrith Aerotropolis CP. The draft Plan has been prepared to enable developers of land in the emerging Aerotropolis precinct to make a monetary contribution (called a ‘Section 7.12 contribution’ or ‘s7.12 levy’) to help meet the cost of providing much-needed local infrastructure.

The draft Plan seeks to deliver $815m in local infrastructure by apportioning a contributions rate of 5.5% for development over $200,000 within the Aerotropolis precinct in Penrith’s Local Government Area. The contributions will fund the delivery of roads, bridges, active transport connections, open spaces and embellishments and help realise the precinct’s potential as a thriving logistics hub and centre for innovation, offering a diverse range of local jobs.

The draft Penrith Aerotropolis CP is on public exhibition until Thursday, 13 July 2023 and can be viewed at yoursaypenrith. com.au/draft-penrith-aerotropolis-CP

You are invited to make a written submission to Council by 5pm on Thursday, 13 July 2023 by:

• Email: city.planning@penrith.city

• Post: General Manager (Attention: City Planning – Draft Penrith Aerotropolis Development Contributions Plan 2023)

Penrith City Council, PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

Please include a subject line indicating ‘Draft Penrith Aerotropolis Development Contributions Plan 2023’ in emails and letters.

For enquiries: Please contact Natalie White, Planner on 4732 7833 or email city.planning@penrith.city

penrith.city

Image: Dalmarri

Woman behind the wheel of car involved in fatal crash has pleaded not guilty Crash accused back in court

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Awoman who allegedly killed a beloved grandmother in a deadly crash has had her case return to court.

Batoul Sleibi el Dirani, 29, reappeared at Penrith Local Court on Friday, June 23, where her matters were briefly mentioned.

She was previously charged with ‘aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death’, ‘negligent driving’ and failing to stop and assist after she allegedly crashed her car into a St Marys home last year.

She was also charged with assaulting two police officers, following the deadly crash.

On her last court date, Sleibi el Dirani’s representing agent told the court she has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Court documents state that emergency services were called to Monfarville Street just before 5.30am on October 8, 2022.

It is alleged that Sleibi el Dirani’s Jeep had

crashed into a bedroom, killing 62-year-old Robyn Oxley. She was treated by police and paramedics, but died at the scene.

Police alleged Sleibi el Dirani was driving more than 45 kilometres over the speed limit at the time of the crash.

They also said she fled the scene of the crash without rendering assistance, despite knowing a person had been killed or grievously injured.

Shortly after, the accused was stopped by police, arrested and taken to Nepean Hospital for mandatory testing.

On Friday, her legal representative told the court that an interim case conference has been conducted.

He described the brief as “significant” and told the court it contains medical material relating to the accused.

The court heard that Sleibi el Dirani is being assessed by a psychiatrist and Magistrate Carl Milovanovich agreed to an eight-week adjournment.

Sleibi el Dirani will remain on conditional bail until the next court date.

Her matters will return to Penrith Local Court on August 18.

She will also reappear at the same court for a defended hearing later this year.

Pair accused of destroying house still behind bars

A Penrith man and Cranebrook woman accused of destroying a property will await their fate after another adjournment.

Jamie Hillhouse, 46, and Nicole Hillhouse, 30, had their matters briefly mentioned at

Penrith Local Court on Friday, June 23. They are facing charges after explosives caused $250,000 worth of damage to a Cranebrook home in May 2022. They they were formally charged with

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

• Penrith Rugby League Club Limited

Lot 1 DP 1257587 and Lot 2 DP 1257587, 11 Ransley Street, Penrith

DA23/0049

External signage and wayfinding signage for Western Sydney Community & Conference Centre and Pullman Hotel

• Eden Brae Holdings Pty Ltd

DA23/0426

Lot 2256 PP 1274692, 144 Peartree Circuit, Werrington

2- storey dwelling

• Jonas Hinz

Mod23/0042

Lot 117 DP 1238043, 136 Forestwood Drive, Glenmore Park

Modification of DA20/0576 Including minor façade changes, enclosing pool cabana and landscape design changes

• The Trustee for DA23/0225

Stimson & Baker Unit Trust

Lot 2 DP 82325, 437 High Street, Penrith

Use of Ground Floor tenancy as small bar for a maximum of 120 patrons and retention of existing florist shop

‘destroy or damage property in company by means of fire or explosives’.

The pair allegedly destroyed the house owned by the NSW Land and Housing Corporation, which is now uninhabitable.

• Katie Jacobson DA23/0270

Lot 6 DP 250423, 45 St Clair Avenue, St Clair In-ground fibreglass swimming pool

• Rachel Abouchaaya DA23/0380

Lot 73 DP 212133, 1 Winston Street, Penrith Strata title subdivision x 2 lots

• Hi-Craft Home Improvements Pty Ltd DA23/0391

Lot 426 DP 247349, 19 Burton Street, Werrington County

Carport

• Devine Drafting & Design DA23/0171

Lot 1087 DP 259016, 30 Rivendell Crescent, Werrington Downs

Additions and alterations to the existing dwelling and in-ground swimming pool

• Michael Viscovich DA22/0326

Lot 57 DP 215146, Lot 58 DP 36728 and Lot 59 DP 36728, 28 Somerset Street, Kingswood Construction of a 7-storey accommodation hotel with 140 rooms, including food and beverage use on the top floor with outdoor rooftop seating, and 3 basement levels with 63 parking spaces

• Granny Flat Solutions Pty Ltd DA23/0221 Lot 1019 DP 803591, 11 Beethoven Place, Cranebrook

Detached secondary dwelling

On Friday, the court heard that a case conference had been held and their lawyers requested a four-week adjournment for negotiations to continue. They were both refused bail and will reappear at Court on July 21.

• Benjamin Engel DA23/0432

Lot 175 DP 204979, 8 Emily Avenue, Emu Plains Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling including tree removal, partial demolition of the existing detached garage and conversion to a shed

• Narellan Pools Nepean DA23/0132

Lot 155 DP 778209, 10 Dryad Place, Leonay Above-ground swimming pool and deck

• Wayne Wilson DA23/0241

Lot 62 DP 1276955, 2–4 Bordeaux Place, Orchard Hills

Shed, hardstand area and OSSM System modification

Viewing of Development Applications

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

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

The scene of the crash last year. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Aglobal leader in the world of fingerboarding, Tech Deck will be celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023 with the launch of an anniversary pack.

Founded in 1998 by 12-yearold Steven Asher, Peter Asher, and former toy merchant Tom Davidson, Tech Deck has become a household name among skateboard enthusiasts around the world.

Tech Deck’s goal is to encourage any kid getting into skateboarding to ‘start small and go big’. The brand’s innovative miniature skateboards allow kids to practice their skills and develop their passion for skateboarding in a fun and safe way.

The idea behind Tech Deck was simple yet groundbreaking. The

Joke

Week of the

founders designed tiny, authentic-looking skateboards made of wood and die-cast metal, replicating real skateboard graphics from top skate brands.

Today, Tech Deck

has over 50 skate brands signed, and the brand has worked with iconic skateboarding pros such as Tony Hawk, Ryan Sheckler,

Q: What happened when a wooden shoe was thrown in the toilet?

A: It became clogged.

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

Paul Rodriguez and Danny Way.

Tech Deck has just announced its latest partnership will be with legendary Australian pro skate-

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

PAGE TEN SPY

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

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

I

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 beautiful mural of the woman holding the pretty rainbow lorikeet bird is located on the grounds of Kingswood High School.

boarder Shane O’Neill who competed in the men’s street skateboarding event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The first Tech Deck project with O’Neill is a licensing deal with his April Skateboard brand that features Olympic Pros Yuto Horigome and Ryassa Leal.

Tech Deck’s 25 Anniversary Pack is priced at RRP $49.99 and is available at Kmart.

The Weekender has five Tech Deck 25th Anniversary Packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Tech Deck’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, July 12 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at westernweekender.com.au.

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: 1008, 0527, 0327.

Customers bank on top

out

P-plater to be sentenced over crash that killed local teacher

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

The P-plater involved in a deadly crash that killed a beloved teacher was distracted by his phone, a judge has found.

Bailey Camilleri, 22, of Shanes Park, appeared at Penrith District Court after pleading guilty to ‘dangerous driving occasioning death’.

In November 2021, Camilleri’s work truck collided with an oncoming car, killing 28-year-old Gemma Thompson.

She said it is evident that the offender’s mobile phone was moving, and that he was at times travelling at or slightly over the 80 kilometre per hour speed limit.

The defence relied on evidence from his mother and a string of text messages to argue that Camilleri fell asleep behind the wheel due to disturbed sleep in the days prior to the collision.

Judge Beckett rejected the claim, saying it was not “rational” or “justifiable” when looking at the case as a whole.

BOQ Penrith recently re-affirmed its commitment to building relationships with its customers by holding a race day at Hawkesbury Race Club.

Ahead of its 18th birthday in Penrith in August, the bank invited a number of customers to the day last month to show its appreciation and thanks.

“We consider the race day a customer appreciation day,” said BOQ Penrith owner-manager, Anthony Walker.

“The day is not about us and selling our products, it’s about our loyal customers

and thanking them for their support.

“It’s always such a fun day with a great turnout.”

The race day was the latest in a number of similar

events BOQ has held to show appreciation to its local bank customers.

BOQ’s Penrith branch is located on Station Street, Penrith.

On Thursday, June 22, both families attended court to hear Judge Sophia Beckett read out a lengthy set of agreed facts.

Camilleri previously pleaded guilty to the charges, but the court was unable to agree on the factors behind the dangerousness of his driving.

During a judge-alone trial, the potential factors identified were phone use, general inattention, tailgating and fatigue.

Camilleri’s phone, which was seized for forensic analysis, revealed that he had been streaming ‘The Big Bang Theory’ on Netflix leading up to, and briefly after, the crash, which occurred at around 7.27am.

Judge Beckett told the court that the phone was steaming episode four of series six for approximately 30 seconds at 7.17am before moving to the first episode of the next series.

She said that episode then “played for about 30 seconds before the device was activated and returned to the earlier episode” at 7.18am.

“There is no evidence to suggest that he was not able to have adequate sleep in the days before the incident,” she said.

The Crown’s argument that Camilleri failed to notice the bend in the road because he was tailgating was thrown out by the judge.

“The significance of the tailgating is that it is part of a circumstantial picture which, taken together with other evidence, establishes beyond reasonable doubt that the offender was conscious and not asleep at the time of the collision,” she said.

In her final submissions, Judge Beckett re-affirmed her ruling.

“I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the offender was driving dangerously at the point of the impact on the basis of his manner of driving, namely that at the time he was distracted by watching a program streaming on his mobile phone,” she said.

“I consider this to be a serious failure to properly control and manage the vehicle.”

Camilleri will remain on bail with his matters returning to Penrith District Court on July 4. He will be sentenced in August.

BOQ staff and customers at the race day last month.

BOQ staff and customers at the race day last month.

Housing still years away, experts say

“There is a natural flow-on effect to the economy when the government starts looking at construction projects.”

The skyline is set to soar in western Sydney following a $2 billion incentive for developers, which was announced in the Federal Budget earlier this year.

According to Peter Vines, Managing Director of Ray White Commercial Western Sydney, the west has a growing population, an undersupply of housing and an enormous issue with affordability. He said all three need to be addressed.

“I think there is a massive undersupply of housing, and with the immigration we’re going to see particularly coming into western Sydney, we have an enormous issue,” he said.

“We need to provide housing for the people who, unfortunately, aren’t in a position to house themselves.”

Aiming to put a dent in Australia’s housing crisis, the Albanese Government will inject the cash into building social housing across all states and territories on a per capita basis.

Vines believes this incentive will create thousands of homes and boost the economy.

He is also pleased to see that the current governments are “very serious” about solving the housing crisis.

“If you’re delivering money to new housing, there’s usually jobs from construction, a demand for local businesses, and more people using transport,” he told the Weekender

However, it is unlikely we will see these new buildings going up for a few years.

According to Vines, there are also some structural issues in the market which will make it difficult to deliver housing in certain locations, including Blacktown, Liverpool and parts of Penrith.

“It is still likely to be five-plus years away before we see the benefit of these proposed planning changes by the time they are introduced, approved and projects of that size are actually built,” he said.

“So it’s lovely to talk about committed monies to social housing, partnerships, etc, but fundamentally, it still takes a long time to deliver real estate.”

Vines acknowledges that there will be a lot of speculation as people start hearing about development in their “own backyard”, but welcomes the opportunity to house more migrants in western Sydney.

“You can’t simply continue to build out because you run out of land, you have to build up and around the infrastructure that’s already been paid for by the government,” he said

“Plus, we’ve now got a huge amount of immigration, which I think we desperately need as a country... they all need to live somewhere as well.”

Peter Vines, Managing Director of Ray White Commercial Western Sydney.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Werrington: Man blows over limit after reckless highway drive

A man has been charged over dangerous driving in Werrington.

About 4.10pm on Friday, June 23, police were patrolling the Great Western Highway in Werrington when a member of the public allegedly contacted 000.

They told police they had observed a vehicle speeding and mounting gutters and raised median strips in order to overtake traffic.

Police found the vehicle at the intersection of the Great Western Highway and Bringelly Road where it was seen to be conducting a U-turn.

Police were attempting to safely negotiate the heavy traffic and catch up to the vehicle travelling east on the Great Western Highway.

It was seen behind an ambulance that at the time had all its lights and sirens activated.

It is alleged the driver was again travelling in excess of the posted speed limit of 60km/h.

At the intersection of O’Connell Street, the driver allegedly undertook the ambulance and accelerated again to an estimated speed of 110km/h in the 80 km/h zone.

The driver weaved in and out of traffic and turned onto Werrington Road, where he was stopped by police.

They spoke with the driver, a 32-year-old from Padstow Heights.

The man was subjected to a breath test, which proved positive.

He was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.109.

The man’s licence was suspended and he was charged with one count of ‘drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous’ and one count of ‘drive with middle range PCA’.

He will appear at Penrith Local Court on July 27.

Werrington: Man hands drugs to police after fare evasion attempt

A man has been charged after he was busted with drugs in Werrington.

About 10.30am on Saturday, police were patrolling Werrington Railway Station when they saw a man exit a train and jump the barrier.

Police stopped a 36-year-old and spoke with him.

He allegedly told them he had no money to buy a ticket.

Police conducted checks which allegedly revealed the man was wanted on another

matter and he was arrested. The man was searched and he allegedly handed police a small clear resealable bag containing cannabis.

He was charged with possession of a prohibited drug and attempting to travel without a valid ticket.

He will appear at Penrith Local Court on July 11.

Penrith: Man to front court after random breath test proves positive

A man has been charged with mid-range drink driving in Penrith.

About 7.20pm on Saturday, police were conducting stationary random breath testing on Mulgoa Road.

They directed a vehicle into the site and spoke with the 57-year-old driver, from Blackwall.

The man was subjected to a breath test, which proved positive.

He was arrested and taken to the mobile RBT Unit where he underwent a breath analysis that returned a reading of 0.090.

The man’s licenc e was suspended and he was charged.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court on July 28.

Berkshire Park: Woman accused of bringing tablets into facility

A woman has been charged after she was caught with tablets and tobacco at a Correctional Centre in Berkshire Park.

About 1.20pm on Sunday, the 22-year-old, of Gorokan, visited an inmate at a Correctional Centre on The Northern Road.

It is alleged that Correctional Officers were watching the pair and witnessed an exchange.

The inmate was removed from the visiting area and searched.

They allegedly found an amount of tobacco and 10 white tablets on him.

The woman was escorted to a holding area at the facility before police attended and arrested her.

It is alleged the woman became violent and has resisted police attempting to handcuff her, and correctional staff had to assist in bringing her under control.

The woman was taken to Penrith Police Station where she was charged with ‘unlawfully bring etc anything into place of detention’.

She will face Penrith Local Court at a later date.

with Daniel McKinnon

THE INS AND OUTS OF WILL DISPUTES

Have you been left out a Will?

Alternatively, are you the Executor of a contested Estate?

Will disputes arise all of the time unfortunately. There are a range of reasons for this.

Sometimes someone who has been left out of a Will forms the view that their treatment is unfair and seeks to make matters right.

Sometimes a death in a blended family (for example where a second marriage has occurred) leads to disputes about who should receive what from the Estate.

Sometimes there are questions about the validity of the Will, for example in circumstances where a person asserts that a deceased person promised them something different than appears in the Will, or where the person making the Will was suffering from an illness that may bring in to question whether or not they had capacity to make a Will at the relevant time.

In NSW, contesting a Will is known as a family provision claim. The Succession Act sets out that certain eligible people can make a claim for provision from an Estate they have been left out of , or for greater provision if they consider that the provision made for them is not adequate.

To make such a claim you need to be the spouse or de facto of the deceased person, or their natural or adopted child, or be in a relationship of close proximity/dependence.

Interestingly, and this is a concept that many claimants have difficulty getting their head around, the law as it relates to Will disputes is not interested in fairness. The legislation sets out the factors that a Court will consider in determining whether or not a family provision claim is successful and the word “fair” does not appear in the legislation.

The three most influential factors in cases like these are the size of the Estate (how much of the pie is there to go around amongst

different beneficiaries and claimants), the financial and other needs of the claimant, and the relationship the claimant had with the deceased.

If a claimant is unable to demonstrate that they have a financial need that could be met by provision or further provision to them from the Estate their claim will ultimately fail.

Further, the size of the Estate is relevant. For example in a contest between a spouse of many, many years and an adult child, if an Estate is of average size the law says that a deceased person owes a greater duty to their spouse or de facto to continue to provide them with a standard of living to which they have become accustomed in favour of a adult child. Generally speaking the Court will consider whether or not an Estate is large enough to provide for the Testator’s wishes simultaneously with satisfying a plaintiff’s claim.

The strongest types of claims are usually ones where the claimant had some sort of positive relationship with the deceased and is able to demonstrate financial need.

Whilst estrangement is not always fatal in cases like these, it is relevant. If the claimant had no relationship with the deceased person which ultimately let to the deceased’s decision not to provide for them in their Will, then the claimant’s case is likely weakened unless they can demonstrate that there were justification for the estrangement.

The information in this article in general in nature and does not take into account your individual circumstances.

To get bespoke advice about your claim, or defending a family provision claim in relation to an Estate of which you are the Executor, contact our office for an obligation free consultation with one of our experience Will disputes lawyers.

LOOKING FOR A COPY OF THE PAPER?

Did you know there’s a number of ways to get your hands on a copy of the Weekender We have some 130 distribution pick-up points. You can also secure home delivery by

you’re looking for the latest trends in flooring and everything that’s underfoot, then look no further than Choices Flooring Penrith. Visit our and let us help you find the floor you’ve been searching for.

So if you’re looking for the latest trends in flooring and everything that’s new underfoot, then look no further than Choices Flooring Penrith. Visit our showroom and let us help you find the floor you’ve been searching for.

Flooring Penrith 131 Coreen Avenue, Penrith • 4731 4242 • choicesflooring.com

TIMBER, LUXURY VINYL, HYBRID, LAMINATE, RUGS, BLINDS & SHUTTERS

Choices Flooring Penrith 131 Coreen Avenue, Penrith • 4731 4242 • choicesflooring.com CARPET, TIMBER, LUXURY VINYL, HYBRID, LAMINATE, RUGS, BLINDS & SHUTTERS

COMPILED BY MAKAYLA MUSCAT

FAMILY FEAST

4 x Hake 10-12 11-12Calamari TartareChipsPrawns Sauce

$5290

2 x pieces of Barramundi Chips & Tartare Sauce

Only$17

Open 11am-9pm Daily!

Come

For over 50 years Barnacle Bill has been serving quality seafood to valued customers. The secret to the long and continual success of the Family seafood restaurant favourite is the motivation for improvement to deliver the highest quality seafood at value for money to customers. Our batter and secret recipe crumb are freshly prepared in store, as are salads and desserts. All meals are cooked to order in the highest quality oil ensuring that customers receive the freshest seafood experience available. Barnacle Bill also offer burgers which include beef, tenderloin chicken and real fish fillet burgers! Vegetarian and Vegan option are also available on the menu.

Wait is over for State Training Awards Finalists with winners to be declared tonight Trainees up for big awards

CASSIDY PEARCE

Local trainees have been named as some of the state’s best, as finalists in the NSW State Training Awards this year.

Charlotte Rogan went into childcare just short of two years ago, following the birth of her son, and already says there’s “nothing more rewarding”.

For her entire career, Rogan has trained under the Affinity Learning Academy – a fully-funded training program offering internal professional development programs and nationally recognised qualifications – completing her Certificate III, with her Diploma now underway whilst working at Kids Academy Claremont Meadows.

Upon finding out that she was named as a finalist in the State Training Awards, alongside her Glenmore Park colleague Debadatta Paul, Rogan said she was in complete shock, owing all of her success to her mentors at Affinity.

“It was a very overwhelming process to start with, because we weren’t expecting it, but it was nice. It’s nice to be recognised for our efforts, but because of them – our coaches,” she said.

Paul started in childcare when she first came to Australia in 2007, inspired by her previous work with underprivileged children in India.

Over the course of her time training with Affinity, Paul said the support she’s received has been unmatched, from helping her while she was overseas, to allowing her transfer from Kids Academy’s Penrith centre to Glen-

more Park. Now, in her 16th year in childcare, she’s ready to pass on the favour.

“This is the only industry I want to stay in,” she said.

“I’m planning to do a Cert IV, which will give me more insight into the management side. There is so much more to learn, and I don’t want to stop myself now!”

Rogan agreed with this sentiment, aiming to undertake her early childhood degree and make room for more young people to start in the industry.

“The childcare sector is under a struggle at the moment, so if we don’t inspire the new

staff, it’s going to struggle even more,” she said.

Two students from Caroline Chisholm College have also been named finalists in the State Training Awards, and are both in the running for Vocation Education and Training in Schools Student of the Year.

Year 12 student Montayah Astruc said that she’s made plenty of incredible memories whilst completing her qualification – one of which has been undergoing placement at Nepean Hospital.

“I have always had a deep sense for helping others around me and wanting to make a

difference, this VET course has enabled me to learn the fundamental practices and gain insight into the realities of working in a hospital environment,” she said.

Katelyn Smith, also in Year 12, was nominated for her outstanding work in Primary Industries.

“It’s an honour to be a finalist for the NSW Training Awards,” she said.

“I want to thank my mum, dad and brother for all their support and encouragement as well as my Primary Industries teacher, Mr [Geoffrey] Clerke, who has been an absolute credit to my learning.”

Parkland City Authority opens local office

The Western Parkland City Authority (WPCA) has taken up residence in their new office at 50 Belmore Street, directly opposite Penrith Station.

The Western Parkland City Authority is the NSW Government agency responsible for delivering, coordinating, and attracting local, national, and international investment to the Western Parkland City.

Western Parkland City Authority Chair, Jennifer Westacott said it was vital that the Authority operated in the heart of the region that it served.

“One of the core functions of the Authority is to boost jobs and growth in the Western Parkland City. Being in Penrith means we’re in the community we serve, and close to the country’s biggest jobs precincts – Bradfield City Centre, the Aerotropolis and Western Sydney International Airport,” Westacott said.

“The move also delivers an economic boost with around 170 staff working in the office and utilising the fantastic range of local businesses in Penrith’s town centre.

“This milestone for the Authority makes

clear we aren’t just talking the talk – we’re here to deliver for western Sydney.”

Late last week, Deputy Chair Geoff Roberts joined Westacott and other Board members to inspect the new premises.

Westacott said the new office had a space for the community to come in and learn about the work of the Authority and Bradfield City Centre.

“Bradfield City Centre is the first major city built in Australia since Canberra and with a $1 billion investment from the NSW Government, it will deliver thousands of local

high-quality jobs and housing across western Sydney,” Westacott said.

The Western Parkland City Authority’s key focus is to ensure the once in a generation investment in the new international airport will translate into new jobs and a more equitable future for the people of western Sydney. At 114.9 hectares, Bradfield City Centre is five times the size of Barangaroo and will be linked to the new airport within minutes via the new Sydney Metro, Western Sydney Airport line. There will be 17,000 new jobs created in Bradfield City Centre.

Montayah Astruc and Katelyn Smith.

Charlotte Rogan and Debadatta Paul at Kids Academy Glenmore Park. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Let us entertain you: X-Golf craze has landed in Penrith

and we started to seriously look at it,” he told the Weekender

Alocal couple is behind an exciting new sporting and entertainment venture in the heart of Jamisontown.

Located inside the former Valentino’s pizzeria on York Road, X-Golf Penrith is being billed as “the ultimate indoor golf and entertainment experience”.

Husband and wife team Matt and Kylie Newton opened the state’s third X-Golf franchise in the area earlier this month, and it’s already got tongues wagging from golfers and non-golfers alike.

The state-of-the-art facility is equipped with six simulators, providing access to the world’s best digital courses, driving range and fun modes like putt-putt and mini golf.

Newton, who was born in and has lived in Penrith his entire life, said after more than a decade in the joinery business, he was eager for something new to invest in.

“We had a joinery business in Penrith for about 15 years… I love golf and this came across my desk

“My wife and I visited various X-Golf venues around Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and we liked what we saw.

“I saw a gap in the market for it out here and when we contacted X-Golf they said western Sydney, and Penrith in particular, was a location they wanted to be in – especially with the new airport coming.”

Similar to how ten-pin bowling reinvented itself over the last decade or so, X-Golf markets itself as an entertainment venue instead of just a place to hit golf balls into a giant screen.

With music pumping through the ceiling speakers, X-Golf Penrith is a fully licensed venue with a large full-service bar, yummy food, TVs to catch all the live sports, and a swanky lounge area where you can cheer others on while you wait your turn.

“It’s really targeted at the entertainment market as much as the golfing market,” Newton said.

“All golf simulators use very similar technology but X-Golf is the leading simulator in the world

because the statistics that we’ve seen show that we’re the most accurate.”

X-Golf Penrith caters to players of all levels, offering golf lessons from PGA professionals who provide expert advice, golf swing analysis and game analysis.

This week, X-Golf also kicked off their X-League competition, which sees teams of three compete against each other in a fast format, handicapped round robin event with weekly and final prizes.

“To keep things exciting, we have 40 different courses from around the world – many that golfers would know from the PGA and European tours,” Newton said.

“We’re the perfect venue for your bucks night, birthday celebration, school holiday activity, Christmas party or fundraiser.

“Or perhaps age means you can no longer get around an 18-hole course anymore, or rain has washed out your golf day with mates, we want to be the place you go, to get your golfing fix.”

X-Golf Penrith is open seven days a week. For more information and to book, visit xgolf.com.au.

Newly renovated and ready to move

Retirement Units from

At Cardinal Gilroy Village, our refurbished units offer comfortable seniors living with on-site community facilities, social event programs, and transport links with proximity to Merrylands and Parramatta.

These bright and airy apartments are spacious and well-appointed, featuring generously proportioned rooms, modern kitchens, ensuite bathrooms, plenty of built-in storage and access to the outdoors.

For your comfort and peace of mind features also include air conditioning, shower grab-rails and level flooring throughout. With your lawns and general maintenance taken care of, you can spend more time doing what you love.

Features include:

• Aged care onsite

X-Golf Penrith franchisees Kylie and Matt Newton. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Singing group goes global

Penrith Harmony set to sing up a storm at international competition this year

After entertaining local audiences for over 30 years, Penrith Harmony is going international, travelling to New Zealand later this year to compete in the Pan-Pacific Competition.

Paul Ryan has been a part of Penrith Harmony for 16 years, and speaks highly of its ability to create connections within the community.

“Singing is a great community pastime, and it’s really good for you as well,” he said.

“There’s things for men who are good at making stuff, like Men’s Sheds, and I’m not one of them, so it’s good that there are other ways that men can get together, enjoy each other’s company, learn skills and entertain people.”

Although they’ve done their fair share of charity work, Christmas carols, and competing in smaller competitions, Ryan said they’re ready to take things to the next level.

The Pan-Pacific Competition, which they’ve recently qualified for, will take them to Auckland in September to compete against groups from as far as Japan and the United States. Having never travelled overseas for the event before, Ryan said the group couldn’t be more thrilled.

“We’re pretty excited,” he said.

“We’ve travelled interstate for various competitions, but I suppose we’ll now be able to call ourselves international singers!”

The convention in its entirety will take place over four days, with quartet singing competitions, the choruses, and a concert to finish.

The group will be performing three songs from their extensive repertoire, including ‘What a Wonderful World’.

According to Ryan, what sets them apart is that they’re able to do what they do without any words or sheet music in front of them.

“If you asked me what the second word of a song was, I wouldn’t be able to think of it, but as soon as you start with that first chord, they all come back,” he said.

“It’s kind of like this muscle memory that

Locals compete for big TV prize

Two Penrith locals will be among the 12 Aussies competing on a new Channel Nine adventure show starting this weekend.

Hosted by former ‘Australian Survivor’ winner David Genat, ‘Rush’ will see competitors complete tasks in some of the world’s most exotic locations, with the goal of taking home $100,000 and two first-class, aroundthe-world airline tickets.

22-year-old Adam, a Penrith transport driver, recalls the opportunity to do the show practically falling in his lap after being on the radio. But, after finding out he’d been selected, he realised it was the perfect chance to support his mum back at home.

“When I found out, I was overwhelmed, I was grateful, I was happy, excited, nervous – I had all the emotions rolling through me,” he said.

“Then, it really sunk in that this is probably the greatest opportunity I might ever run into in my life. I’ve never seen my mother back down from anything, so I thought I better jump straight in.”

For Adam, doing a show which sees contestants put to the test in a thrilling race around the world was more than a little bit out of his comfort zone, given that he’d never travelled before.

“It was the complete opposite to the life I was living,” he said.

But, it was his fellow Team Scarlet members – Hamish, Najmah and Fiona – who he said helped him learn on the go and challenge Team Gold, and Team Navy, which includes 33-year-old Londonderry resident, Madeline.

“I got some good friendships along the way, they’re very nice people, all different ages,” he said.

“Obviously me, being young, you learn a lot from talking to people, and it’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Though we’re set to see plenty of characters emerge from the show, Adam assures he’s someone to root for, hoping that Penrith and Emu Plains will get behind him.

“I think I’m coming across as a big personality. I’m not afraid of anything, and I’m going to say what I feel at that moment,” he said.

“I think anyone who knows me, knows to back for me. I definitely think I’ve done this town proud, and I’m pretty stoked with that.”

you’ve got that allows you to remember the notes and chords without looking at them, and it makes us more entertaining because we’re not hiding behind music books.”

Penrith Harmony practices every Monday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the John Lees Centre, and is always looking for new members –although they’ll have to wait four years until

they hit the big leagues of international competition.

“They’ll have to wait for the next one, but if they come along, they can sing at our Christmas carols, and all of the local community events that we do,” he said.

Visit penrithharmony.com, or you can ring Paul on 4735 2637 for more details.

With ‘Rush’ set to premiere on Nine and 9Now this Sunday, July 2, Adam said he can’t wait for everyone to see him develop his newfound love for travel in real-time, promising that the show will be “epic”.

“I’m stoked for people to see the cultural differences and the crazy landmarks and

festivities that all of these countries have to offer,” he said.

“Some of the sites you’ll see and the way the countries go about their day-to-day life is really incredible to be honest, and if you chuck 12 Aussies in there and let them run amuck, I think you can only get a good outcome.”

Penrith Harmony in action.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Adam from Penrith appears on ‘Rush’. Contestant Madeline from Londonderry.

CASSIDY PEARCE

How you can help Turn The Tables for somebody in need

What’s changed is that volunteers are starting to see new people all the time – and it’s not who you might expect.

With the weather having well and truly cooled down, and the cost of living at an all-time high, more and more people are struggling to make ends meet. But, with the help of the local business community, Mama Lana’s Community Foundation is doing all they can to make a difference.

In an effort to move the Foundation into a permanent space, Michelle Grice created the Turn The Tables project, which sees local businesses become Turn The Tables Partners and contribute $1000 per year, with a commitment of three years – though many opt to donate more.

According to Grice, this has been imperative in being able to commit to a lease, whilst creating connections within the community.

“It’s been a great way of getting businesses involved, because it ends up equating to $20 a week, so it’s not a massive commitment, but it covers our rent,” she said.

Current Turn The Tables partners include Wiseberry Penrith, BTW Communications, Bega Dairy and Penrith Early Learning Centre.

This year in particular, these funds have been needed more than ever, with record numbers of people coming in for help.

“It definitely ramps up in winter, although at the moment it’s ramped up just because cost of living has gone through the roof,” she said.

“When we first started out, we were doing

somewhere between 50 and 80 meals per night, and now we are averaging 350 meals per night, and that’s gone up even since pre-COVID.”

“We deal with homeless and disadvantaged, so it’s not all rough sleepers, and people sleeping in tents – it’s also people who have a job and just can’t make ends meet on their job,” she said.

“It’s getting quite sad to see just how many people are saying ‘I just can’t make it’.”

Grice assures that their team has no judgement, but may need a little more help moving forward.

“Almost daily, we are giving out blankets, sleeping bags, swags and jackets, so that’s a big need all the way through winter. We put out a call recently for sleeping bags, and I believe we may have gone through all of that already,” she said.

Although they have enough volunteers for their meal service, it’s drivers that they’re lacking.

“We’ve got a couple of volunteers who drive our vans through the day to pick up food from various places, so if there’s anyone who’s got some time in the day to drive a mini-van, we definitely need that at the moment!” Grice said.

Businesses wanting to be a Turn The Tables Partner, or anyone else wanting to find out more, can visit turnthetables.org.au for more information.

Bailey Hand, Patricia Quinlan, Lana Borg and Annette Schroedter.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Routine is key to success

Stop hitting snooze button and get to the gym: How to stay motivated this winter

PEARCE

When the temperature drops, it’s no surprise that many would want to do almost anything over going to the gym.

Atmosphere Fitness Club Manager Deb Vitols said there are “absolutely” fewer people walking through their doors during winter.

“People become unwell, children become unwell which keeps parents at home, but I would honestly say it does just tend to be lack of motivation,” she said.

“People would prefer to stay home, and stay warm and comfortable, rather than coming into a cold gym and having to work out.”

However, during this time it’s more important than ever to keep going, for the benefit of both your physical and mental health.

“Continuing to go to the gym will help to maintain their health, and help stave off illnesses – if you keep active, your body is less prone to getting sick,” she said.

“Going to the gym also keeps you in routine, because quite often people will look for that motivation, but routine breeds motivation.”

As for how to stay motivated, Vitols has a few key suggestions.

“I’d really recommend trying to set a routine,

and going with a buddy, so at least you’re locked in and you’ve got some accountability,” she said.

“It also helps to book your classes a week in advance, and make a deal with yourself that you’re not going to cancel unless something dire does happen.”

Getting into the habit of goal setting, no matter how big or small, can also be a helpful push.

“You can even set yourself little goals, like little four-weekly goals so at least then you’ve got something to work towards,” Vitols said. “That means there’s a reason to get out of bed and walk through our doors.”

This winter, Atmosphere Fitness’ key motivator has also returned, adding to the already lengthy list of why you need to get back in the gym.

“Burn & Earn is our annual motivator, which we do try to run at this time of year each year to try and spark that interest, and give them that intrinsic motivation to keep coming through the door,” she said.

“Every time a member comes in, we give them a ticket that goes into the barrel, and then on September 7 we’re going to have a big draw night here.

“You need to be present to win a prize, and there will be three major prizes, and some other smaller prizes on the night as well.”

To learn more, visit atmospherefitness.com. au or pop into one of their Penrith locations.

alling on all Veter d

Calling on all Veter d

Calling on all Veterans & Family

Veterans Wellbeing Program is open to all wider Nepean district.

Veterans Wellbeing Program is open to all the wider Nepean district.

The St Marys Veterans Wellbeing Program is open to all veterans in the wider Nepean district.

Calling on all Veterans and Family

Veterans & family for Veterans & family, activities offer opportunity for like-minded and share amongst each other in a comfortable environment, while being as active as you wish. not need to be a member of the St Marys Branch nor of the St Marys Outpost Veterans Centre – all are welcome to participate.

Veterans & family for Veterans & family, offer opportunity for like-minded and amongst each other in a comfortable while being as active as you wish. need to be a member of the St Marys nor of the St Marys Outpost Veterans – all are welcome to participate.

Designed by Veterans & family for Veterans & family, these activities offer opportunity for like-minded and families to share amongst each other in a comfortable environment, while being as active as you wish.

Designed by Veterans & Family for Veterans & Family, these activities offer opportunity for like-minded and families to share amongst each other in a comfortable environment, while being as active as you wish. Veterans do not need to be a member of the St Marys RSL sub-Branch nor of the St Marys Outpost Veterans’ Support Centre – all are welcome to participate.

The St Marys Veterans Wellbeing Program is open to all veterans in the wider Nepean district.

to come along and join in. Check out the here, for an activity for you.

Veterans do not need to be a member of the St Marys RSL sub-Branch nor of the St Marys Outpost Veterans Support Centre – all are welcome to participate.

Now’s the time to come along and join in. Check out the July calendar here, for an activity for you.

time to come along and join in. Check out the here, for an activity for you.

Bowls on Friday 7th or bring the family (your choice of 1.5 or 3K) with breakfast on Saturday 8th. Drop in most informal Coffee n Chat. Learn to play a or join the jam sessions.

Try the Barefoot Bowls on Friday 7th or bring the family for a Walk n Talk (your choice of 1.5 or 3km) with scrumptious breakfast on Saturday 8th. Drop in most mornings for an informal Coffee n Chat. Learn to play a guitar or ukulele or join the jam sessions.

Barefoot Bowls on Friday 7th or bring the family Talk (your choice of 1.5 or 3K) with breakfast on Saturday 8th. Drop in most an informal Coffee n Chat. Learn to play a ukulele or join the jam sessions.

Now’s the time to come along and join in. Check out the July calendar here, for an activity for you.

Try the Barefoot Bowls on Friday 7th or bring the family for a Walk n Talk (your choice of 1.5 or 3K) with scrumptious breakfast on Saturday 8th. Drop in most mornings for an informal Coffee n Chat. Learn to play a guitar or ukulele or join the jam sessions.

you (your family) may be interested phone/email Leanne Veterans Support 4700 or vietvet@tpg.com.au)

For any activity you (your family) may be interested in, please firstly phone/ email Leanne for details at the Veterans Support Centre: 9833 4700 or vietvet@tpg.com.au)

For any activity you (your family) may be interested in, please firstly phone/email Leanne for details at the Veterans Support Centre (02 9833 4700 or vietvet@tpg.com.au)

activity you (your family) may be interested firstly phone/email Leanne the Veterans Support 9833 4700 or vietvet@tpg.com.au)

Scan this QR Code to check out full details of this Wellbeing Program.

Code to check out full Wellbeing Program.

Scan this QR Code to check out full details of this Wellbeing Program.

Code to check out full Wellbeing Program.

Atmosphere Fitness Club Manager Deb Vitols.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY

Consultation Community

Emu Plains Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan

Penrith City Council is currently seeking information from residents and business owners in the study areas of Emu Plains, Emu Heights and Leonay.

Community Survey

All residents and businesses in the study catchment should receive a mailout containing the community survey and an information sheet. If you live or work within the study area and have not received the package, please contact Council.

If you are in the study area of the catchment, please complete the survey and return it to Penrith City Council by Thursday 13 July 2023.

You can do this by:

• Completing the survey online via the Your Say Penrith website at yoursaypenrith.com.au

• filling out the survey and emailing it to Habib.Rehman@penrith.city

• using the pre-paid envelope provided in the mailout to post it back to us.

Further Information

If you have any questions or would like to submit any information you think may be helpful to the study, please contact Council Engineering Services on PH: 4732 7777.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

mission is to raise much needed funds for research, to create awareness and support brain cancer patients and their families. Beanies will be available from Lowes Australia stores, selected IGA stores and online from the MHF website markhughesfoundation.com.au. Pictured is NSW star Millie Boyle in one of the 2023 beanies.

Do you ever wonder about the history behind the street signs we look at every day?

The Davey family lived on the corner of Wedmore Road and Old Bathurst Road. They were a very civic minded family. If you know the meaning of a street name in the Penrith LGA email news@ westernweekender.com.au.

Source: A History of the Nepean and District Street Names compiled by Lorna Parr.

Δ Beanie fundraiser returns: The NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round is back this weekend. 2023 is the seventh NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round since it began in 2017. The officially themed NRL round was the idea of former Channel Nine NRL producer Matt Callander in collaboration with the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF). Callander bravely battled a stage 4 Glioblastoma himself. He sadly lost his battle with brain cancer in October 2017. The MHF is a charity formed in Newcastle by Mark and Kirralee Hughes following Mark’s diagnosis with brain cancer in 2013. The Foundation’s

Residential Subdivision, Chain-O-Ponds Road, Mulgoa Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment – Invitation to Register an Interest

On behalf of Mirvac Homes (NSW), Artefact Heritage is preparing an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR) and possible Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (application) (AHIP) to support a Development Application (DA) for bulk earthworks, subdivision for 500 lots and associated infrastructure which will be lodged with Penrith Council.

The residential subdivision is located on the boundary of Chain-O-Ponds Road and The Northern Road at Mulgoa, NSW 2745. The study area on which the redevelopment is proposed comprises of 11 lots (Lot 27 DP244610, Lot 28 DP244610, Lot 29 DP244610, Lot 30 DP244610, Lot 2 DP1240361, Lot 5 DP29081, Lot 3 DP1240361, Lot 1 DP29081, Lot 2 DP29081, Lot 3 DP29081, & Lot 4 DP29081) and Chain-O-Ponds Road along the frontage of the site. The study area falls within the Penrith City Council Local Government Area (LGA) and the boundaries of Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council.

A Due Diligence report has established that there are landforms with archaeological potential in the study area and therefore an ACHAR is required. The proponent wishes to consult with any Aboriginal persons or organisations that hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the significance of Aboriginal objects and places in the locality. The purpose of the community consultation is to assist the proponent in the preparation of an ACHAR and an AHIP where harm to Aboriginal objects is unavoidable.

The contact details for the proponent are:

William Hodgkinson Development Manager Development

Mirvac william.hodgkinson@mirvac.com

Please register your interest in the project by 14 July 2023, by contacting: Elizabeth Bonshek

Artefact Heritage Services, Suite 56, Jones Bay Wharf, 26-32 Pirrama Road Pyrmont NSW 2009 or consultation@artefact.net.au

Please be advised that the details of all parties who register will be forwarded to Heritage NSW and Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council unless specified otherwise. If you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Artefact Heritage on (02) 9518 8411.

Δ Do-nut be alarmed: Twisties fans rejoice. Off the back of their latest Twisted Raspberry launch, the iconic Aussie favourite has collaborated with beloved Aussie donut empire, Donut King, and together, the two have created a new flavour plot twist –Twisties Donut King Cinnamon Donut. The limited edition Twisties Donut King Cinnamon Donut flavour will offer Aussies one of their favourite sweet treats from the Home of the Hot Cinnamon Donut now in twistified chip form. For those eagerly waiting to try, the highly anticipated collaboration will drop in stores on August 7.

selection of new foods inspired by the feline’s favourite dishes. Pizza Hut has introduced two new Garfield-inspired pasta pizzas with Mac’N’Cheese and Pasta Bolognese available online at pizzahut.com.au for a limited time until Sunday, July 16. Plus, Cucina Classica are launching a Garfield Classic Italian Lasagna Ready Meal available in supermarkets across Australia from mid-July.

Δ Bluey in town: Big news for the kids (and big kids too) with Bluey and her little sister Bingo heading to Penrith Homemaker Centre. The live shows will be happening on Saturday, July 8 and Sunday, July 9. Stay tuned to the Penrith Homemaker Centre’s Facebook page for details.

Δ Winter menu: Café at Lewers has just launched its new Winter Menu. Among the inclusions is the Coconut Hot Chocolate (pictured), and Banoffee Waffles with salted caramel, passionfruit gel and vanilla mascarpone.

Δ ‘Garfield’ inspired pizzas: ‘Garfield’ is celebrating 45 years of “cattitude” so to mark this major milestone, the Consumer Products Team at Paramount ANZ are revealing a

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

NAIDOC Week returns

After a hiatus in our usual programming due to COVID-19 and bad weather, Council will celebrate NAIDOC Week 2023 with a program of community activities and events taking place across our City from Sunday, July 2 2 to Sunday, July 9.

A highlight of the program is our fun and inclusive NAIDOC community event at Jamison Park on Friday, July 7 between 10am and 3pm. One of the biggest NAIDOC celebrations in NSW, this year’s event will be no exception with plenty on offer, including cultural performances, market stalls, workshops, a free BBQ lunch and more.

Our program will also include NAIDOC Storytime at our library branches, an interactive craft display, a film screening, twilight markets and more. The events will embrace this year’s NAIDOC theme, ‘For Our Elders’, a homage to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and their ongoing contributions to communities across the country. Our local Elders are cultural knowledge holders, trailblazers, nurturers, advocates, teachers, survivors, leaders and much more. They guide our

generations and pave the way for us to take the paths we can take today. Guidance, not only through generations of advocacy and activism, but in everyday life and how to place ourselves in the world.

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday) to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Locally, we embrace the opportunity to celebrate the significance of our Aboriginal heritage and the important contribution Penrith’s Aboriginal population make in our community and across our vibrant City. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are the oldest continuing cultures on our planet and have often endured, struggled and survived against a backdrop of adversity.

This NAIDOC Week, I encourage everyone to check out our program of events and take this unique opportunity to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history and heritage.

CR TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor of Penrith

Kids enjoy sweet success

Everything old is new again: Classic roadside stall brings memories flooding back

for the both of them. It’s no longer the 20c lemonade stand, but I think it was really nice.”

You’ve heard of the classic lemonade stand, but two local boys have taken matters into their own hands, running a unique citrusy business of their own.

Last year, seven-year-old Callum McGeachy came up with the idea to run a citrus stall with oranges, grapefruits and mandarins grown on trees at their Emu Plains home.

According to mum Nikki, his enthusiasm and entrepreneurship was unmatched.

“There were some kids around the area doing a cupcake stall, and our tree was full of fruit, so Callum decided it would be a good way to make a bit of pocket money to do an orange juice stall,” she said.

“We spent the whole day juicing and preparing, and then we set up our stall, and he actually did really well.”

Now that winter has rolled back around, Nikki said Callum couldn’t wait to get the stall up and running once again.

“All year, he’s been waiting for the trees to ripen, he’s been watching the fruit, so as soon as it was ripe enough and we found a good weekend, it was on!” she said.

This year, Callum had an extra employee on hand in his two-year-old brother Egan.

“Egan got right into it this year, flagging people down,” she said.

“I think it’s been a really good experience

After getting the word out on the Emu Plains Neighbourhood Community Page on Facebook, Nikki said she couldn’t believe the support of the community.

“We were really impressed with the community spirit, everyone really got behind it,” she

“I just did the little post on Facebook saying ‘Come and say hi!’ and the community was really keen. We had friends from down the road visit, and a few people even drove down just to see him and buy some juice and some

And it’s this support that Callum loves so much, with the extra pocket money helping him to buy toys and games.

“I like to make people happy, and I like getting the money. Somebody only bought something for $5 and gave me an extra $10,”

“My favourite things that I’ve gotten are two Nintendo Switch games!”

Although they’re not sure if they’ll be back again this season, Nikki said everyone should keep an eye out for 2024.

“I dare say he’ll be back next year, once all the fruit’s ripened again,” she said. Tell us your feel-good local stories: Call us on 4722 2998.

Egan and Callum McGeachy.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Dry July brings out mocktails

“You can pick any garnishing that you could usually get with a gin and tonic, and then we just use non-alcoholic gin, so nobody misses out.”

With Dry July kicking off this weekend, thousands of people will be accepting the challenge to go alcohol free for the month, in hopes of raising funds for people affected by cancer.

Luckily, with an abundance of lively restaurants and bars in the area, participants won’t have to survive on water exclusively, as many boast lengthy menus of delicious mocktails.

According to Lucky Rajput from Masala Kitchen in Penrith, their non-alcoholic drinks section has always been chock-a-block. However, with the trend of non-alcoholic options only growing, last month’s expanded menu has given new and returning customers even more options to choose from.

“We have a big Indian following, and they’re not big drinkers, especially the ladies, so we had to have options for them,” he said.

“Now, we’ve released a new menu with a soda section, which is all non-alcoholic. We want everyone to be able to enjoy a drink, even without alcohol.”

These sweet and cirtusy Indian sodas are just the beginning, with the restaurant using their famous gin bar to its advantage by creating a ‘designated driver’ option.

“It tastes exactly the same, just with no alcohol,” he said.

This Dry July, Rajput says Masala Kitchen is the perfect option for anyone wanting to enjoy drinks and a meal with friends, with or without alcohol.

“You don’t have to compromise anything during Dry July,” he said.

“You can still enjoy all the drinks with your food – spicy food goes very well with the sodas, and the non-alcoholic gin.”

But, the options don’t stop there, with venues all over the LGA hopping on the bandwagon, and making the perfect lunch date or night out accessible for everyone.

If you find yourself over in Thornton, head to the estate’s newest venue Revolver Lounge. The restaurant, which serves Mediterranean cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner most days of the week, encourages patrons to treat themselves to a drink off their extensive mocktail menu.

High Street venue Mr Watkins also has a few options in store, including their ‘Almost Watkins Appletini’, ‘No-Jito’ and a few non-alcoholic beers and ciders.

Around the corner on Lawson Street, Okami Japanese Restaurant has the opposite mindset, offering up three delicious mocktails with the option to add spirits if desired.

Lucky Rajput from Masala Kitchen preparing a delicious mocktail.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square. With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.

These photos are from the

ing of High Street to traffic in 1996.

Starting your hearing care journey can be overwhelming. You may be excited to finally hear the sounds you missed out on for so long. But it can also be a confusing journey because there are many hearing solutions that are currently available on the market.

Hearing aids are vital for improving communication and helping us reconnect with the world around us.

Hear Clear Australia prides themselves on providing hearing solutions suitable for every lifestyle and budget. Hear Clear Australia is a hearing care provider who offer subsided hearing services and hearing aids under the Commonwealth Government Hearing Services Program.

Are you eligible for subsidised hearing aids?

Pensioners and DVA White and Gold card holders are eligible to receive government funded hearing services.

Hear Clear Australia is conveniently located opposite Penrith RSL Club. They are one of the 270 approved subsidised hearing providers across Australia.

The program entitles you to a free hearing test and hearing aids, should it be suitable for your hearing needs.

You will be offered an appropriate device which may be fully-subsidised (free) or partially-subsidised (out-of-pocket cost).

A small annual fee is payable for ongoing maintenance of your device which entitles you to battery replacements and regular

checks and adjustments of your hearing aid.

Fully-subsidised hearing aids are government-approved, meeting strict quality and technical standards. It is a common misconception that clients cannot select their device of their choosing if they are on the government program.

However, there is actually a list of government-approved devices which you can select from.

In some cases, clients may choose a partially-subsided device for advanced device features which often improve listening in background noise.

However, after your consultation with your hearing care provider, both yourself and your clinician can discuss the hearing solutions best suitable to your hearing needs.

Can I change providers if I am not happy?

It is important to have a long-term relationship with your hearing service provider for continuity of care.

However if you are not satisfied with your current service you may contact the friendly team at Hear Clear Australia for an obligation-free consultation.

It is important to be an informed consumer, and finding a clinician that considers your lifestyle and listening needs. Hearing rehabilitation is a lifelong journey and it is important to find an experienced clinician that guides you throughout your hearing care journey.

Find out more, call the friendly team on 4742 3636 or visit www.hear-clear.com.au.

Pick up a copy of the paper

Caddens

Caddens News (Caddens Corner)

Clementine’s Café

Woolworths

Cambridge Gardens

Coles

Mcdonald’s

Overlander Hotel

Cambridge Park

Cambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

Castlereagh

Ampol Service Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Colyton

Colyton Centre Pharmacy

Colyton Friendly Grocer

Colyton Hotel

Colyton Newsagency

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

Mcdonald’s

Mother Earth Nursery

Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

Mcdonald’s

Penrith Regional Gallery

Woolworths Lennox Village

7/11 Emu Plains (Great Western Highway)

7/11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Heights

Super Save Compounding Chemist

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

Glenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

Mcdonald’s

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

Jamisontown

Abcoe

Abel Street Eatery (Happy Harrys)

Batt Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Harvey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Salt Cafe (Penrith Homemaker)

Shell Service Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars Café

Western Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/11 Jamisontown

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

Caltex Service Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

Barista Bar Coffee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital)

Country Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Smash Repairs

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Radhe Indian Grocery Store

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow Café (Formerly Willow Tree Café)

Llandilo Iga

Londonderry

Londonderry Liquor Store

Shell X Roads

Luddenham

Ampol

Australia Post Iga Luddenham

Minchinbury

Mcdonald’s

Minchinbury Fruit Market

Mount Druitt

Westfield Mount Druitt

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

The Bunker

North St Marys

Mfc Food Stores Speedway

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Australian Arms

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley Café)

Brisket Boys

Café Fred

Caltex Coreen Avenue

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles (Westfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mart

High Street Pies

Hoyts Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

Liquor Stax Peachtree

Mcdonald’s High Street

Mcdonald’s Panthers Leagues

Mcdonald’s Peachtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group Café

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

One Point Health

Panthers Leagues Club

Peachtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith Cbd Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Library

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 Café

The Log Cabin

Westfield

World Gym

7/11 Henry Street

Regentville 7/11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Iga

The Chemist Shop

South Penrith Budget Service Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Southlands Takeaway

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair

Blue Cattle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

Melville Road Takeaway

St Clair Library

St Clair Shopping Centre 7/11 St Clair

St Marys

Andrew’s Corner Store

Ampol Foodary

Astley Pharmacy

Cassandra’s On Queen

Guido’s Hair Care

Jayam Supermarket

Mcdonald’s St Marys South

Monfarville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Marys Band Club

St Marys Fish Market

St Marys Leagues Club

St Marys Library

St Marys Pharmacy Queen St

St Marys Pizza Hut

St Marys Rsl

St Marys Village

Wagon Wheel Hotel

Walter’s Newsagency

Thornton

Petramart

Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia

Wallacia Golf Club

Wallacia Hotel

Wallacia Post Office

Wallacia Takeaway

Warragamba

Warragamba Sports Club

Werrington

Colonial Hotel

Crossroads Convenience Store

Dirani’s Mfc

George’s Charcoal Chicken

Henry Sports Club

Mcdonald’s

Supa Iga

The Foodary

Werrington Newsagency

The two best defensive teams in the competition face-off in a Friday night blockbuster that will no doubt provide an early preview of September football. Both sides have played 15 games this season, won 10 matches and lost five. Their attacking records are strikingly similar, but there’s one statistic that splits them considerably: defence. Penrith have conceded just 188 points this season, while Melbourne has leaked 273 points. In some ways, Craig Bellamy’s side has gone under the radar this year. Some early inconsistencies, injuries and blowout scorelines had people thinking their time had finally come. After all, this is a side that lost games to the Bulldogs, Titans and Sea Eagles in the first two months of the competition.

Fast forward to Round 18 and here they are, sitting equal first on the competition table and getting plenty right at the perfect time of the year.

Perhaps the 45-20 loss to the Cowboys in

CHANNEL 9 FOX LEAGUE

ABC 702 2GB 873

Townsville earlier this month was the circuit breaker for the Storm. The season could have spiralled out of control from there, but it has instead got perfectly back on track with big wins over the Sharks, Tigers and Sea Eagles.

Meantime, the Panthers continue to go about their business, defying the critics to sit on top of the ladder after 17 rounds, a spot they’ve occupied more often than not over the past three years.

The next man up mentality the club has focused on over the past few seasons, and the systems Ivan Cleary has put in place, are definitely delivering – exemplified perfectly against the Knights last weekend.

Penrith completed at a remarkable 90 per cent, barely giving the Knights a chance as they dominated possession and every important statistic. Sure, they lacked a little bit of polish at times, but that’s to be expected with the amount of talent on the sidelines.

While Cleary had always had it in the back

of his mind to rest his Origin players for the Knights game, the decision was locked in when his replacement troops went down in Golden Point to the Cowboys in Townsville. He believed those players deserved the opportunity to right the wrongs of that night – putting extraordinary faith in them at a crucial time of the season. It’s the squad mentality the Panthers have and it’s why no matter who wears a Penrith jersey, you can expect a professional performance and for them to do everything they can to repay the faith put in them.

There is no question that both Melbourne and Penrith have great finishers, from Xavier Coates and Will Warbrick to Brian To’o and Izack Tago. But the real work is done up front, and it is the forward battle that not surprisingly will dominate all the talk heading into this one.

The power games of Moses Leota and James Fisher-Harris up against the brute strength of Christian Welch and Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who would run through a brick wall with ease if

it was in his way. His try against the Sea Eagles last Saturday night was evidence of that. It doesn’t matter what number he wears on his back, he delivers a demolition derby.

I really like Penrith’s bench over Melbourne’s, especially with Spencer Leniu coming on at some stage to inject some extra grunt into the contest, but there’s no doubt it’s evened out by Melbourne’s halves combination of a returning Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes, who has been in great form.

Jarome Luai is back in the team for Penrith but with Nathan Cleary still out injured, it’ll be up to Jack Cogger to step up a gear and guide Penrith around in enemy territory – there’s no question it is his biggest task to date in a Penrith jersey.

I’m expecting a low-scoring, tight tussle that might not be decided until the final minutes of play.

Hard to see more than one try in it.

Tip: Panthers by 4.

v STORM 1 Nick Meaney 10 Christian Welch 2 Will Warbrick 11 Trent Loiero 3 Reimis Smith 12 Nelson Asofa-Solomona 4 Justin Olam 13 Josh King 5 Xavier Coates 14 Bronson Garlick 6 Cameron Munster 15 Alec MacDonald 7 Jahrome Hughes 16 Tui Kamikamica 8 Tariq Sims 17 Kane Bradley 9 Harry Grant 18 Tyran Wishart 19 Tom Eisenhuth

WATCH IT LIVE ON THE BIG SCREENS in THE BASEMENT 51141

BROADCAST « the western weekender • extra time 31 Friday, June 30, 2023

Spencer Leniu in action against the Knights.

Photo: NRL Images.

nrl ladder & fixtures

here ’ s cheers

NAME: SUMMER AGE: 18

SUBURB: MT DRUITT

Seasons as a Pantherette? One. Favourite food? Burritos. Favourite Panthers player? Dylan Edwards.

Must-follow social media account?

@thegoodquote. Go to pump up song? ‘Midnight Sky’, Miley Cyrus.

What do you love about being a Pantherette? The thing I love about being

a Pantherette is the understanding and connection between all the girls. New or old to the squad, you feel welcomed. You’re able to come in, do the thing you love, with people you love, for the team you love.

If you were stranded on a desert island, which other Pantherette are you bringing with you and why? I’d choose Annabelle. Since day one, when we met at auditions, we have naturally clicked!

panther rumblings

BEANIE ROUND IS BACK AGAIN

! Beanies for Brain Cancer: NRL clubs, players and fans will unite to raise money for brain cancer research for the seventh time when the annual Beanie for Brain Cancer Round takes place this weekend. The Mark Hughes Foundation hopes to raise $3.5 million during this year’s Beanie for Brain Cancer Round, which will see players, clubs, fans and broadcasters Channel Nine and Fox Sports come together for an important cause. Sportsbet is continuing its long running support of Beanie for Brain Cancer round by donating $1000 for every try scored in Round 18 NRL matches. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round grows every year thanks to the support of the rugby league community. “What Mark and his team have done over six Beanie for Brain Cancer Rounds is nothing short of inspirational,” Mr Abdo said. “Mark’s dedication continues to highlight what an extraordinary person he is, and the public’s support of his story and his foundation are also great examples of the rugby league community coming together for an important cause.”

! Coote calls it a day: Fullback Lachlan Coote (pictured below) was among Penrith’s most popular players from 2008 to 2013, with the Windsor Wolves junior playing 83 games for the club and scoring 193 points. He went on to have a successful career at the Cowboys before heading to England where he’s played for St Helens and Hull. This week, Coote announced his immediate retirement from the game on medical advice. The 33-year-old had suffered five concussions in three years, forcing him to make the difficult decision.

! Spotted: Co-captains Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo running a keen eye over Penrith’s preparations for last Saturday’s clash against Newcastle (pictured below).

! Cleary’s big call: Ivan Cleary had always pencilled in a plan to rest his Origin players for last week’s clash against Newcastle. But it was only cemented in when the Cowboys secured a Golden Point victory over his young fill-ins a fortnight ago. Cleary was desperate to give those players a shot at turning it around, particularly given the team has a bye before the next Origin encounter, and was confident they’d get the job done – especially at home. It would have given those youngsters, some of whom could be called upon later in the season in much bigger games, plenty of confidence.

Cleary was criticised in some corners for resting players but there’s no doubt he’s playing the long game as the potential for a three-peat becomes more real.

! Tim’s second retirement: A former Panther has called it a day. Tim Armistead has drawn his working life to a close and will now put his feet up and enjoy more time with his family. As a player, Armistead made 11 top grade appearances with the Panthers in the late 1970s.

! Beware the double standard: When Latrell Mitchell was allegedly racially abused at BlueBet Stadium by a fan earlier this year, the entire rugby league community and media rallied behind him. There were even calls for the young supporter to be banned for life. Jarome Luai was last week subjected to death threats, and it’s been intriguing to see the comparative response. Sure, Luai’s Instagram post in response was poorly thought out, but it shouldn’t be used to water down what sparked it. Veteran journalist Phil ‘Buzz’ Rothfield even suggested Luai should have simply responded by reporting the threats to “security”. What a

bizarre comment. Luai attracts plenty of haters and his style isn’t for everybody. It’ll even get him in trouble from time to time, as last week’s Instagram post proved. But the amount of hate he cops is extraordinary and unwarranted, and the media should call it out just as they did for Mitchell.

! Good Samaritan: Well done to the Panthers fan who paid for a teenager’s food at the kiosk at BlueBet Stadium last weekend. The teen’s payment app wouldn’t work and he was starting to panic – fortunately the fellow Panthers fan came to the rescue and paid for the food.

! Keeping it in the family: Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary has purchased the riverside home he spent much of his teenage years growing up in from his parents, Ivan and Bec. The Emu Plains property recently traded hands between the Clearys for $1.7 million.

! Share your goss: I don’t keep secrets, but I do protect my sources. If you’ve got some news to share, send an email to maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

Mark Hughes with Andrew Abdo.

TO’O CRAVES COMFORTS OF HOME

returning to the comforts of home and spending time with family.

Popular Penrith and NSW winger Brian To’o says he’s looking forward to becoming a dad when his wife Moesha gives birth to their first child later this year.

The happy couple announced the heartwarming news on Instagram back in May before revealing the baby’s gender – a boy – earlier this month.

Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday, To’o said he was

“I always look forward to coming home after a big game, whether I’m sore or whether we win or lose,” he said.

“I always look forward to coming back home to my wife and, with the baby on the way as well, I think it makes it 10 times more special.”

After missing the last two club games during Origin and rest, To’o will return to Penrith’s line-up this evening when they take on the third-placed Storm in Melbourne.

ever played in the Victorian capital and he’s looking forward to playing at Marvel Stadium, an AFL ground.

“This will be my first time down there. I didn’t even know we weren’t playing at AAMI Park,” To’o admit ted.

“I’m looking forward to playing with the Penrith brothers and hopefully putting on a good performance against the mighty Storm.

“It’ll be fun going down to Melbourne and putting on a good show for everyone.”

Seeing Penrith’s Origin contingent

Gender reveal: To’o and his wife are having a baby boy.

Brian To’o playing for the Blues. Photo: NRL Images.

Brian To’o is ready for his first trip to Melbourne.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

HOW SPENCE GOT PAST “THAT” INJURY

that made me think about it too much. I tried playing without the cup in my second game back [against the Roosters] and I didn’t think about it once.

Rupturing your testicle will always be an injury that makes everyone cringe, no matter if you have your own or not.

For Panthers prop Spencer Leniu, he’s still working his way back from the freak injury that cost him three games on the sideline.

The 22-year-old Samoan international required emergency surgery last month after rupturing his testicle following an accident at training. While everything ‘downstairs’ is all healed and working again, Leniu said it took some time for him to get his confidence back.

“Not to be funny, but a lot of my focus was to try and not get hit in the nut again,” he told Extra Time

“Especially during the first two games, I was just trying to get through each game without being hit down there.”

As it so happens, Panthers assistant coach and former captain Peter Wallace also suffered a ruptured testicle whilst playing a State of Origin match in 2008. Leniu said Wallace offered some insight into what he went through some 15 years ago.

“I was really fortunate Peter Wallace was here, he had the same thing, a ruptured testicle,” Leniu said.

“He was telling me a story that they tried to make him wear a cup when he played but he said, ‘stuff that’.

“I ended up wearing a cup during my first game back against the Dragons, but I think

“I’m feeling pretty confident about it now.”

While Leniu is doing his best to put the injury behind him, he’s still in the headlines when it comes to State of Origin.

While the big man is yet to make his debut for the NSW Blues, many are tipping his name might finally get called out when Brad Fittler selects his Origin side for the Game III dead rubber next week.

“It’s nice being in the conversation,” Leniu said.

“That would be the dream until it’s a reality. Up until that point I’m just going to keep performing for the brothers and keeping them at the forefront of my mind.”

Penrith has always had a healthy contingent in Origin in recent years and that hasn’t changed this series with a half a dozen players selected so far.

Leniu said it’s disappointing his Panthers teammates get unfairly targeted by the public when NSW fail to fire on game day, or lose the series.

“When you have so many boys in the team, it’s going to be a topic. But, in their defence, everyone gets picked on form,” Leniu said. “We are a top performing side, and these boys just play so good every single week and they deserve to be picked.

“I don’t think they are picking them just because they play for the Panthers, they are picking them on form and that’s all it is.”

Spencer Leniu chatting to the media on Wednesday.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

While back-up Panthers halfback Jack Cogger is tearing it up on the field filling in for Nathan Cleary while he’s injured, his good form also means he’s attracting the attention of other clubs.

Now my spies tell me he’s settled in nicely at the Panthers and would like to stay put but it will be hard for him to do so if another NRL club offers him a better opportunity to play halfback for them full-time.

Cogger is 25 years-old and in his prime as a half. He has fit seamlessly into the team and bought into the culture and systems Penrith have in place.

Playing for the Premiers may bring a lot of added pressure but it also provides you with a bigger platform, which can propel your career to greater heights.

FUTURE IS BRIGHT FOR COGGER lang on league

So far Cogger hasn’t put a foot wrong in his short four-game cameo for the Panthers this season, if anything, he seems to be getting better with every game.

Sean O’Sullivan used his time filling in for Cleary last season to showcase his talents and by season’s end was signed to a three-year contract as first-choice halfback with the Dolphins.

Back to Cogger and you got the feeling he was going to do just fine the moment he stepped in to replace Cleary in Round 14

when he left the field with a serious hamstring injury against the Dragons.

However, rather than dump all

the responsibility on his halves

partner Jarome Luai, Cogger took control of the side within minutes, barking orders at his forwards and

organising the attack, which let Luai create the ‘off-the-cuff magic’ he is so good at.

Already Cogger has amassed a highlights reel to be proud of. In his first game he kicked a perfectly directed ball across field for a flying Brian To’o to catch and score in the corner.

A few weeks later he kicked a field goal with seconds left in regulation time to push the game against the Cowboys into extra time. Then last week he made a covering tackle on flying Knights winger Dominic Young, which pushed Young’s foot into touch thus killing the dangerous attacking movement instantly. Cogger is all about the team and the way his teammates rushed in from everywhere to congratulate him for his tackle on Young, shows they like and respect him as well. He still has at least one more game as starting halfback before Cleary is due back. Yet you sense he’s not using playing for Penrith as an opportunity to show off his skills just to join another club next season.

There are still plenty of opportunities for him at the Panthers and I know the club is also keen on retaining his services as well. Watch this space because the next

Panthers back-up halfback Jack Cogger.

Photo: NRL Images.

with Peter Lang

Keep local news free.

Having a local news service is vital to a community such as Penrith.

Making a pledge to The Western Weekender helps ensure our print and digital content continues to thrive. You’re supporting journalism at its most raw level, as we continue to tell Penrith’s stories.

hidden panther WHO AM I ?

Visit www.westernweekender.com.au/ pledge

1. I made my first grade debut with Parramatta.

2. I played 157 games for the Panthers.

3. I played for my state and country.

4. I coached Fiji in 2018.

5. I played fullback and second-row.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER: Robbie Beckett.

CAN YOU SEEK OUT THE HIDDEN PANTHER IN THIS WEEK’S QUIZ?

lower grades

LOWER GRADES GO DOWN TO WIRE

An under-strength Penrith Panthers have suffered a surprise 19-18 loss to the Newcastle Knights in the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup at BlueBet Stadium.

The match was close from start to finish, with neither side leading by more than six points at any stage.

The Knights opened the scoring after 15 minutes when David Armstrong got a lucky bounce from a grubber.

With Kurt Falls off the field undergoing a HIA, Trent Toelau combined with Jack Cole in the halves to turn the game towards the Panthers with several smart attacking plays.

lower

Daeon Amituanai got the Panthers on the board four minutes from half-time when he dived over in the corner, before John Faiumu crashed over next to the posts on the siren. Cole converted both for a 12-6 lead.

A 30 metre rampage from David Fale to score on debut was sandwiched between a pair of Knights tries, leaving the scores at 18-all with 15 minutes left.

The Panthers suffered another injury blow late with Cole forced off and were left to rue not attempting a field goal when Adam Clune slotted one to snatch the win for the Knights with two minutes remaining.

It was a better result for the Jersey Flegg Panthers as they bounced back to beat the Knights 20-18 in a thriller.

The Panthers enjoyed a perfect start, forcing an error in the opening set before Luke Hanson scored from the ensuing scrum.

A lucky bounce for Fletcher Sharpe saw him score the Knights’ first under the posts in the ninth minute.

A 40/20 from Joseph Nohra turned momen-

tum back towards the Panthers and they took the lead back in the 20th minute when Timothy Sielaff-Burns scored in the corner.

Tries late in the half to Harrison Hassett and Peter Taateo gave the Panthers a 20-6 lead at the break.

Luck turned Newcastle’s way after half-time,

scoring the only two tries of the half despite losing Ryan Rivett to the sin bin. They continued to attack throughout the final 20 minutes, however the Panthers’ defence held firm to record the two-point win. In Round 18, both grades travel to Canberra to take on the Raiders.

THE LIFESAVING AIRWAY CLEARANCE DEVICE FOR PARENTS, CARERS AND PROFESSIONALS.

LifeVac is a unique device used to dislodge food or hazardous items from the airway through a one-way suction which removes the object in the event of choking. The negative pressure generated by the force of the suction is 3 times greater than the highest recorded first-aid measure.

LifeVac has been designed to be used on children and adults and the pushpull motion can be mastered by any user. You can even use it on yourself.

Penrith’s Jersey Flegg team beat the Knights in a thriller. Photo: NRL Images.

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS RABBTOHS PANTHERS RAIDERS TIGERS BRONCOS

BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS KNIGHTS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONOCS BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

KNIGHTS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

DRAGONS RABBITOHS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS DOLPHINS

SHARKS WARRIORS STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

SHARKS WARRIORS STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

SHARKS WARRIORS STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

SHARKS RABBITOHS PANTHERS TITANS COWBOYS BRONCOS KNIGHTS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS RABBITOHS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

SHARKS RABBITOHS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

DRAGONS RABBITOHS PANTHERS TITANS TIGERS DOLPHINS

SHARKS RABBITOHS STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

KINIGHTS ROOSTERS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS TITANS COWBOYS BRONCOS

DRAGONS RABBITOHS PANTHERS TITANS TIGERS DOLPHINS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

DRAGONS RABBITOHS PANTHERS TITANS TIGERS DOLPHINS

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

KINIGHTS ROOSTERS

BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

KINIGHTS ROOSTERS

DRAGONS RABBITOHS PANTHERS TITANS TIGERS DOLPHINS

SHARKS WARRIORS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS

SHARKS RABBITOHS PANTHERS RAIDERS TIGERS BRONCOS

KINIGHTS ROOSTERS

BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

BULLDOGS ROOSTERS

ENTERTAINMENT

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

ROLLING IN TO PENRITH

on them, because she is such an incredible singer, and an iconic singer of our generation.”

Known for her powerhouse vocals, seeing Adele live is no doubt on the bucket list of many. Luckily, the next best thing is heading to Penrith this July – and she has more in common with the superstar than you might think.

In between nights performing the national anthem at the Australia v West Indies Cricket Test, supporting Thirsty Merc on the West Australian leg of their tour, and performing the post-game entertainment for the State of Origin, Gemma Luxton has spent the last few years delivering sold-out performances of her Adele Tribute Show.

According to Luxton, the idea came about during a difficult time in her personal life.

“I was going through a bit of a change at the time, I’d just separated from my husband, and I guess I’d always loved singing Adele –it was one of my favourite things to do – and my agent just messaged me and said ‘Hey, how would you feel about fronting an Adele tribute?’,” she said.

“I remember releasing a video not long after that, that went viral, and it just exploded from there.”

After experiencing great success in her hometown in Perth, Luxton was excited to travel again post-COVID, opting to take her show Australia-wide.

But, extra shows has meant she’s had to spend even more time ensuring her vocals are up to par.

“I have a gruelling routine. My warm-ups are ridiculous, and before shows I’ll spend hours and weeks working on it just to make sure those vocals are right, and they’re done with honour to her performance,” she said.

“They’re definitely not easy songs to sing, and I feel like as a vocalist you have to do them justice, and you have to work hard

With a number of connections to Adele through her divorce and recent weight loss, Luxton has emotional ties to her music in the same way that the singer does, creating another level of authenticity.

“I try and give as much to the performance of her, but also with a part of myself as well,” she said.

“Adele and I are very similar in that we’ve both been through divorce, and been through that heartache, so that’s always going to come through the performance for me, because that’s a main theme throughout her songs as well.

“It’s not something that I put on, it’s just something that happens because of the emotion and because of the similarities in our lives.”

It’s because of this that performances of hits such as ‘Turning Tables’, ‘I Can’t Make You Love Me’ and ‘Easy On Me’ garner a “more real” performance from Luxton. But, it’s that which she believes makes her shows so special.

“I think I’ve found that vulnerability to be the hardest part of doing the tribute, especially to begin with, because I was in the middle of my divorce, and it’s an emotional time as it is, let alone singing songs about it,” Luxton said.

“But, what I’ve found is, people feel it more, and people enjoy it more if you don’t put on a fake persona. It creates this beautiful friendship with the audience – I always say ‘I don’t know you now, but at the end of this, we’re going to be besties, because I’ll have shared so much with you’.”

Rolling in the Deep: Adele Tribute will be on at the EVAN Theatre at Panthers on Friday, July 14 at 8pm. Tickets are $40. For more information or to book, visit penrith. panthers.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

NAIDOC celebrations in Penrith

The main NAIDOC community event will be returning to Jamison Park on Friday, July 7 from 10am to 3pm to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, heritage and history. Celebrate NAIDOC Week with the community in an event filled with performances from First Nations artists, workshops, stalls, a BBQ, and more. Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

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

Penrith Markets

Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0402 699 611.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

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

An ABBA experience not to be missed

The Australian ABBA Tribute Show ‘ABBALANCHE’ brings a perfect sing-a-long event to the EVAN Theatre on Saturday, July 1, with a nostalgic experience that’s not to be missed. This energetic and entertaining show is a timely celebration of the band we all love! Prepare your platforms and flares for this unmissable ABBA experience. Visit penrith.panthers.com.au.

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Penrith Lions Club

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

Penrith NASHO’s

Monthly meetings at Penrith RSL Club. Call 0400 129 006 for details.

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

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

Red Cross Penrith

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

Get creative in the school holidays

Penrith Regional Gallery is offering an opportunity for children aged 12-16 to get their hands dirty and unleash their imagination in a hands-on polymer clay workshop. On Tuesday, July 4, the gallery will welcome participants to create beautiful clay pieces of their choice, inspired by the work of Jeannie Baker, with all creations to be taken home and cherished.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

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

Nepean Food Services

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

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

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42

Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

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

Arms of Australia Inn

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

Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

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

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

Prostate Cancer Support Group

It can be difficult to find ways to keep the kids busy during the school holidays, especially as the cold settles in. Luckily, there is a range of local activities to keep you and the kids warm and active this winter break...

Indoor Skydiving – For Those Seeking a Thrill

If you’re looking for something exhilarating and an experience like no other, iFLY (pictured above) is the place for you. With flyers able to be as young as threeyears-old, this is an experience not to be

missed. iFLY has options to cater to any needs, with highly skilled coaches and mentors with you at all times. Located next to Panthers, you are also in range of an amazing feed at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club after your feet are once again on solid ground and your adrenaline has worn off.

For an experience that the kids, and you, won’t forget, visit ifly.com.au.

Vintage Fire Engine Rides

For those thinking of visiting the Museum of Fire over the school break, there is an eye-opening experience to be aware of. On Saturday, July 1, between 10am and 2pm, the museum will be providing vintage fire engine rides for only an extra $3 per person. Gain

first-hand experience driving in a genuine Ford D200 fire engine; the same that was used across NSW towns in the 1960s. With general admission only being $15 for adults and $7.50 for children aged 2-13, this is an experience not to be missed!

Mamre Homestead Markets

Market Warriors will be hosting the Mamre Homestead Market at Penrith Paceway on Sunday, July 2. With only a gold coin entry, this is a perfect event to interact with and support local small businesses and the talent they have to offer. With over 40 stalls of food and retail, and continuous entertainment, it is a day for the whole family to enjoy and mingle with the community.

A

Feat of Strength – NERF Warfare

Emu Sports Club is welcoming an intense and exhilarating opportunity to train, game, and compete in NERF warfare. Two sessions will be available on Monday, July 3 from 10am-11.30am and 12.30pm-2pm at $28 per child, with an included kids meal to keep them energised and ready for more. This event is suitable for children aged seven and above, however laser wars are offered to children aged five and six. For tickets, visit www. stickytickets.com.au.

Interactive Reptile Show

For all those with kids interested in slimy, scaly, and soft-shelled creatures, Peter Goodfellow Theatrette at Penrith City Library

will be showcasing various members for the reptile family in a one-hour show. On Wednesday, July 12, between 11am and 12pm, children aged two to 10 are invited to participate in this interactive family show. For only $10 per child, this is a school holiday activity that is sure to be memorable. For tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com.au.

The Listies Visit Penrith ‘Hamlet: Prince of Skidmark’, a multi award-winning children’s comedy play, is visiting Penrith this school holidays. Produced by The Listies – Richard Higgins and Matt Kelly – and Declan Greene, this cheeky and captivating interactive adaptation of the classic Shakespearean play is sure to keep your bellies full of laughter and your eyes glued to the stage. Aimed to be enjoyed by those aged five and up, this show is a must-see these school holidays.

The show will be performed at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, July 13 at 6pm and Friday, July 14 at 10am and 1pm.

For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.thejoan.com.au.

Brick Builders

If you’re looking for something free and engaging, Penrith Library will be hosting a

Brick Builders workshop on Monday, July 10 between 10.30am and 12.30pm (pictured below). This is an opportunity for the whole family to get involved and prove their creative potential, whether it’s following the suggested builds, or bringing your own designs to life. Bookings are not required for this event and the whole family is welcome to get involved.

Historical Festival and Open Day

The Arms of Australian Inn Museum is hosting a Historical Festival and Open day on Sunday, July 16. Run by the Nepean District Historical Society and visited by the NSW Corps of Marines, this festival will allow the whole family to be immersed in local history. Demonstrations of drills and re-enactments from the times of the early colony, coupled with various activities for all ages, ensure there will never be a bland moment. Admission ranges from $5 to $10 per person, with lantern tours available for booking for $15 per person.

The Funlab Experience

With multiple venues situated in the local area, Funlab offers endless opportunities for fun and excitement. Visit Holey Moley

(pictured left) for competitive and awe-inspiring mini golf courses fit for the ‘hole’ family. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq offers an extensive range of arcade games, ranging from the classics to new skill games sure to leave you hooked. Or if you’re looking for even more competition, Archie Brothers also contains a bowling alley, ready for you to show off your skills. For more information and specific locations, visit fun-lab.com.

Can You Beat the Clock? Narrow

Escape Rooms

Narrow Escape Rooms offers a unique and immersive experience that is guaranteed keep brains sharp and minds active as you work in groups to solve puzzles and escape the room before time runs out. Two out of their three offered puzzle rooms – Launch and Undetected – are available to children aged eight and above with adult supervision. Their final, and hardest room, is available to those aged 12-plus in a family group or 16-plus without supervision. If you’re looking for an opportunity to test your teamwork and prove your problem-solving skills, this is the perfect experience for you. For more information and to book, visit narrowesc.com.au.

MAGIC OF THE CIRCUS

Arriving just in time for the school holidays, ‘Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus’ will appear at Blue Mountains Theatre and Riverside Theatre this July.

Class collides with quirky in this circusbased Mozart performance. Being a champion of live performance, Circa Contemporary Circus has toured over 40 countries, and performed to over 1.5 million people. Circa pushes the boundaries of its art form, experimenting with how extreme physicality can create a powerful performance.

In an extraordinary display that blends the use of movement, dance, circus, and

theatre, ‘Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus’ produces an immersive a captivating experience.

The show creates a duality in the main character; to those who know him, he is Wolfgang, a dart-playing ratbag, however, to those who watch and listen, he is the wigged genius, Mozart. The show will leave the audience bewildered and amazed as the composer’s music is reinvented and comes alive alongside Circa’s daredevil artists and live accordionist.

‘Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus’ will be on at Riverside Theatre from Monday, July 10 to Wednesday, July 12, and at Blue Mountains Theatre on Thursday, July 13. To book, visit riversideparramatta.com.au or bluemountainstheatre.com.au.

This school holidays, bring your little ones to Sydney Coliseum Theatre to see one of the world’s most timeless stories come to life on stage.

As the top selling children’s author of all time, there’s no doubt that Dr Seuss’ books are still just as popular as they were when he first wrote them in the ‘50s – and it’s no different for his 200 word masterpiece The Cat in the Hat

Over the years, the legacy of The Cat in the Hat has lived on in many ways, with an animated series produced in the ‘70s, and a movie released in 2003 starring the sensational Mike Myers.

After first being brought to the stage in 2009 by the National Theatre of Great Britain, Dr. Seuss’ ‘The Cat in the Hat – Live on Stage!’ is finally making its way to the west, with a brilliant show taking place at Sydney Coliseum Theatre on Saturday, July 8.

‘The Cat in the Hat’ knows no boundaries, and is sure to make for the perfect day out for both littlies, and the young at heart.

If you’re looking for something fun and interactive to do in the school holidays, this is your answer.

‘Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat – Live on Stage!’ will be on at Sydney Coliseum Theatre on Saturday, July 8 at 10.30am and 1pm. Tickets are $40, or $140 for a family of four. For more information or to book, visit sydneycoliseum.com.au.

HAYLEY ROCHESTER CASSIDY PEARCE

Indiana

Over 40 years since the first movie hit cinemas, Indy is back for another globe-trotting adventure in the highly-anticipated ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’.

The movie sees Harrison Ford return to the role of the legendary hero archaeologist for the final instalment – or so they say – of the iconic franchise.

Right from the opening scene, which is one of the best moments in ‘Dial of Destiny’, the movie’s action-packed sequences leave you on the edge of your seat. From fights on the top of a moving train to grand escapes, the heart-stopping moments are amplified even more when you see the physical toll it takes on the much older Indy.

There’s some great new additions to the cast, most notably Phoebe Waller-Bridge of ‘Fleabag’ fame, who brings her distinct co-

and the Dial of Destiny

medic timing to the unpredictable character of Helena Shaw, goddaughter of Ford’s Indiana Jones.

There are plenty of call-backs to the original trilogy, some that are delivered in witty one-liners that make you laugh, and others that are more sentimental in nature.

Where it does fall short is the tail end of the movie. Despite it allegedly being the final chapter of the franchise, ‘Dial of Destiny’ goes out with a spark rather than a bang.

The final battle is still good, but it just doesn’t quite hit the mark of being great and the twist is sure to leave audiences divided.

All in all though, ‘Dial of Destiny’ is still an enjoyable ride and miles ahead of ‘Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ – not a difficult feat – but nostalgia can only carry a movie so far.

– Ellie Busby

2023 Apprenticeship / Traineeship & Jobs Expos

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

FREE PUBLIC ENTRY - YOUR DREAM JOB AWAITS YOU

NEWCASTLE & HUNTER

Tuesday 8 August 3pm to 8pm

NEX - Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre

Newcastle West

CENTRAL COAST

Tuesday 15 August 3pm to 8pm

Mingara Recreation Club Tumbi Umbi

WESTERN SYDNEY

Tuesday 5 September 3pm to 8pm

Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre Cambridge Park

ILLAWARRA

Tuesday 22 August 3pm to 8pm

Illawarra Sports Stadium Berkeley

SUTHERLAND SHIRE

Tuesday 12 September 3pm to 8pm

Tradies Gymea Gymea

MAJOR SPONSORS & PARTNERS

SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY & MACARTHUR

Tuesday 29 August 3pm to 8pm

Liverpool Catholic Club Prestons

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Ê ‘The Amazing Race Australia’ is returning later this year with a Celebrity Edition for the very first time. 11 teams will race around the world for a $100,000 prize, which will be given to charity. The teams are: Alli Simpson and mum, Angie; Bec Judd and sister, Kate Twigley; Ben and Jackie Gillies; Harry Jowsey and mate Teddy Briggs; Grant and Chezzie Denyer; Dane and Bow Simpson; George Mladenov and sister Pamela; Jana Pittman and son, Cornelis; Peter Rowsthorn and daughter, Frankie; Darren McMullen and nephew, Tristan; and Emma Watkins and sister Hayley. It’ll be hosted by Beau Ryan.

Ê After a strong return to TV screens this year, ‘Australian Idol’ will return next year with Scott Tweedie and Ricki-Lee Coulter as hosts. Auditions for the new season will be held in August. To apply, visit form.fillout. com/t/joymSYncivus.

Ê New Channel Nine reality series ‘Rush’ will premiere this Sunday, July 2 at 7pm. Hosted by ‘Australian Survivor’ winner David Genat, ‘Rush’ will see three teams of Aussies race around the world with one winner

rewarded with $100,000 and two first-class, around-the-world airline tickets. Each team will be dropped into the middle of cultural festivals and huge events in Brazil, Turkey, Jordan, India, Thailand, Ireland, France, Kenya and South Africa, and must be the first to get out and move on to the next destination. This sounds excellent!

Ê Foxtel jury drama ‘The Twelve’ has been renewed for a second season. Season one of the Sam Neill series was nominated for several Logies last week.

Ê You know the show we all farewelled last year, ‘Neighbours’? Well, it’s officially returning to our screens in September. Episodes will air first on 10 before they are streamed on Prime Video a week later.

Ê Revived property series ‘Location, Location, Location’ will premiere on 10 this Friday, June 30 at 7pm. Hosted by Mitch Edwards and Mark McKie from ‘The Block’ fame, the series leaves no stone unturned

in the quest to find the perfect property for Australians who need a helping hand securing their dream home. The pair will travel across the country ticking off must-haves and deal-breakers in their search for fabulous properties for their house-hunters, injecting fun and flair into the search.

Ê One of my favourite shows of 2022, ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty’, is returning on Monday, August 7 at 8.30pm on FOX Showcase and Binge. Season two continues to explore the professional and personal lives of the 1980s Los Angeles Lakers. The seven-episode season will hone in on the period just after the NBA Finals in 1980 through 1984, culminating in the first professional rematch of the era’s greatest stars: Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Ê US drama ‘Billions’, which streams on Stan, has confirmed its upcoming seventh season will be the last. Season 7 will consist of 12 episodes and is expected to screen in August.

GALLERY WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY ART WORKSHOPS

rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Smother (M l,s) 1:20 Classic 100 In Concert With The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Grand Designs Revisited 3:55 Landline

Babanil 4:30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 5:00 NDIS - 10 Years 5:30

Black Hand (MA15+) 6:30 The ABC Of Germaine Greer (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30

NAIDOC Awards *Live* From

TV Guide: June 30 – July 6

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

2:30 Movie: “You’ve Got Mail” (PG) (’98) Stars: Meg Ryan 5:00

7:30 Movie: “Hunger Games Mockingjay Part 1” (M v) (’14) Stars: Jennifer Lawrence 10:00 Movie: “Snowpiercer” (M) (’13)

2:50 Movie: “Huckleberry Finn” (G) (’74) Stars: Jeff East 5:15 Movie: “Yours, Mine And Ours” (PG) (’05) Stars: Dennis Quaid 7:30 Movie: “Schindler’s List” (M l,v)

And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown (M) 8:30 Murdoch Mysteries (M)

Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (M)

Movie: “Last Cab To Darwin” (M l) (’15) Stars: Michael Caton

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black . These need to be filled in with numbers that is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store. The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

...Take a fresh look at seafood

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: CARTOONS

ASTRO BOY

BULLWINKLE

DAFFY DUCK

DONALD

ELMER FUDD

FELIX

FLINTSTONES

FOGHORN

JERRY

JETSONS

MICKEY MOUSE

MINNIE

PLUTO

ROAD RUNNER

ROCKY

SCOOBY-DOO

SCROOGE

TOM

WILE E COYOTE

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about the RMS Titanic in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. Which company operated the RMS Titanic?

2. How many lifeboats was the RMS Titanic carrying on its maiden voyage?

3. What was the first boat to reach the scene of the Titanic’s sinking?

4. In 2013 the violin belonging to the Titanic’s bandleader

Wallace Hartley sold for how much at auction?

5. How many bathtubs were available for third-class passengers?

6. When was the wreck of the Titanic discovered?

7. Who was the captain sailing the Titanic when it sank in 1912?

ANSWERS

1. White Star Line

2. 20

3. Carpathia

4. $1.7 million

5. Two

6. 1985

7. Edward John Smith

YOUR BRAIN

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

Hexwords Country Corner

Name the Movie

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

ICESSGPNHCTHK

Previous solution: THE SHAPE OF WATER

Rising star’s new song

Rising country artist and songwriter Sammi Palinkas (pictured) has released her new single ‘Meet in the Middle’, a contemporary country track that showcases her powerful vocals and heartfelt songwriting.

Co-written with Sally Barris and award-winning producer Rod McCormack, the song is a modern take on the classic love story of opposites attracting and the importance of compromise in relationships.

The Melbourne-based singer’s song is available now on all streaming services.

Brand new song

12-time Golden Guitar winner Adam Brand has released a brand

new single, ‘Now We’re Talking’, which can be streamed now on all the usual music services.

The song is about how in this fast paced, here today, gone tomorrow world, two people can find each other against all odds, and build a beautiful life together. As Brand describes his single, “It’s crazy to think that two people who are complete opposites can come together and find love, so don’t give up, they could be just around the corner!”

Johnson goes solo

Former Runaway June member Naomi Cooke Johnson has released a new solo track ‘Girls of Summer’.

It’s available now on all streaming services.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOHO ASTRO - JOANNE MADELINE MOORE

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Aquarians are free spirits. And you could go missing in action this week, as Uranus and the Full Moon boost your tendency to detach or run away from difficult situations. Heading for the hills or escaping into a private fantasy seems appealing, but the current problems will still be waiting when you return. So you need to get the balance right between dealing with daily challenges when they occur, and retreating into your own quirky inner world.

You could bump into an old friend, discover long-forgotten love-letters, or re-connect with a former flame. Just remember – memories are so seductive because they’re so selective. You intuitively know what is right for you – even though you may appear confused to others. Don’t let your family (or peer group) push you around or persuade you to do something you don’t believe in. Saturn (in your sign) encourages you to be sensible and stay grounded.

On Monday you’re keen to rush things and speak bluntly but don’t barge in with Full Moon guns blazing! If you do, then you could end up smack bang in the middle of a fiery argument – especially at work. It is a suitable week to tackle domestic and professional projects. Just make sure you finish details properly before you embark on exciting new ventures. With Venus and Mars visiting your love/creativity zone, you could fall in love with a person or an idea.

This week’s Full Moon activates your adventure and exploration zone. Plus Venus (your ruling planet) and Uranus (transiting through your sign) push you to jump out of your comfort zone, shake off bad habits, embrace opportunities and fast track changes. Which can feel very uncomfortable!

It’s time to view transformation as terrific, rather than terrifying. Be inspired by birthday great The Dalai Lama (who turns 88 on Thursday), “True change is within.”

TO

The Full Moon shines a spotlight on money, business, property, investments, taxes and joint finances so make sure they are all in working order. On Friday, Mercury makes a fabulous aspect with Uranus, so an innovative financial idea or an unusual professional opportunity could really take flight. And maintain your sense of humour! Quote for the week is from birthday great, writer/artist Jean Cocteau, “The ability to laugh heartily is the sign of a healthy soul.”

Mercury and the Sun are both moving through your sign, which boosts your creativity … and your moodiness. And there’s a Full Moon in your relationship zone on Monday. So it’s time to look after loved ones, and nurture your inner self via meditation, contemplation and relaxation. Your quote for the week is from fellow Crab, actress Selena Gomez, “I’m such a Cancer. I feel everything so intensely, which is one of my favourite things about myself.”

The Capricorn Full Moon highlights your health zone so it’s a good week to try a detox diet or a disciplined new exercise routine. Venus and Mars are both vamping through your sign, which boosts your Cat charisma and playful sense of fun. So it’s also a wonderful week to turn up the charm and call in a few old favours. However, too much happy hilarity (and no action) will just annoy others (who are doing all the work). So try to walk your talk.

Mercury and the Sun are in moody Cancer and there’s a Full Moon on Monday. So your obsessive/compulsive side could crank up and take over. However, if you sweat the small stuff, you’ll end up feeling tired and emotional (and exhausted) by the end of the week. Perhaps it’s time to de-stress, as you sample a session of meditation or try a spot of yoga? You might just enjoy it! Friday is fabulous for innovative ideas, alternative viewpoints and bohemian friends.

Expect some tension as the Full Moon stirs up old grievances with a family member or a work colleague. If you sit back and let others make decisions, then you’ll just feel powerless. So strive to be more self-sufficient, as you use your natural diplomatic skills to help smooth troubled waters. Getting the ratio right between your public and private lives is an ongoing challenge. But if anyone can juggle complex commitments, it’s a well-balanced Libran!

Neighbourhood activities and local connections are favoured, as the Full Moon encourages you to be more community minded. Also – courtesy of Jupiter and Uranus – you’ll be given the chance to heal an old emotional wound or patch up a relationship problem. Don’t let false Scorpio pride stop you from taking a giant leap forward when it comes to love and forgiveness. Accept the opportunity gratefully, with outstretched hands and an open heart.

The focus is on financial matters, as the Full Moon fires up your money zone and your spontaneous spending gene. Which is OK – as long as you have the cash flow to fund a shopping spree. If you don’t, then you’ll have to entertain yourself in more frugal ways. Finances and friends are a particularly messy mix, so strive to keep the two well separated. On Friday the Mercury/Uranus link favours innovative ideas at work and adventurous daydreams at home.

Monday’s feisty Full Moon lights up your sign, so relationship dramas are likely. Unless you can slip out of fussy Capricorn control-freak mode and instead, try the gentle art of compromise. Other people are acting as a mirror, reflecting negative personal traits that you may have been unaware of. Use these experiences to work on your weaknesses – and build on your natural strengths. As always, calm cooperation is the key to interpersonal harmony.

MONEY MATTERS

WITH ALEX MCKENZIE FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES • 4704 8585

Changing family structures makes estate planning more challenging

In recent times we have a much higher prevalence of, for a lack of a better term, “non-traditional families”. This presents some different challenges when it comes to estate planning. With second marriages, long-term de facto relationships and blended families being commonplace, it is becoming increasingly likely that succession laws will not reflect your wishes and you need to make plans to ensure that your assets are distributed as per your requests.

These considerations may also be relevant if a beneficiary is in a “non-traditional (again, I hate that term) family” situation.

It goes without saying that it is essential to establish a Will to ensure that your assets are distributed as per your desires. It is also worth considering the use of Testamentary Trusts if a potential beneficiary is in a complicated situation. There is so much information in relation to Wills and the use of trusts, that I couldn’t possibly cover it all in a single article. The take away message is this; if you don’t have a Will, get advice and get it sorted!

An important thing to remember when developing estate planning strategies is that not all assets form part of the estate. Things like superannuation and property owned as joint tenants are not part of the estate and are treated separately. This provides both a strategic opportunity and the potential for unintended results.

In the case of joint tenancy, upon death

of an owner, the property automatically passes to the surviving owners. This might be exactly what you would like to occur, however, there are circumstances where this is not desirable.

A classic example where this is problematic is for second marriages with adult children from previous relationships. The desire for the couple is often that half of the house be passed to each of their respective families upon death. If not correctly planned, what is likely to happen is that when the first partner dies, the house passes onto the surviving partner and later to their own children. A way to avoid this is to have a “tenants in common” ownership structure, which essentially means that each partner owns a share of the house that will flow on as per each owner’s wishes. To avoid the surviving partner having to either, buy out the estate or sell and lose their place of residence, a “right to occupy” agreement is normally drafted to allow the surviving spouse to continue to live in the home.

Superannuation has different tax treatments for dependants and non-dependants for a death benefit payment. Within “non-traditional family” situations, it is quite common for the desired beneficiary not to be considered a beneficiary as per the Superannuation Act. This needs to be considered when constructing an estate plan.

Estate planning is important and should not be ignored.

PATRICK CELEBAN ONE POINT HEALTH • 4732 5188

Lymphoedema is a lifelong condition, but there’s tips to help control it

Chronic swelling that results from a lymphatic system that is no longer functioning and draining normally means living with a lifelong condition called lymphoedema, however, there’s many tips on how to prevent aggravating this condition. These tips also apply to anyone who is at risk of lymphoedema from cancer treatment i.e., the surgical removal of lymph nodes.

Blood pressure readings

If you have had lymph nodes removed from your axillary (armpit) on one side or already have lymphoedema on one of your arms, then it is wise to have your blood pressure reading taken on the other arm or just have it done quickly by a professional. This is to prevent squeezing too much lymph into the tissues.

Needles

Having any medication injected into the affected arm should also be avoided as there is the risk of increasing fluid load in those

tissues. Having blood test or acupuncture needles in the affected side pose a very minimal risk if the needles are sterile to prevent infection.

Heat

Exposure to heat like a hot bath or a sauna causes vasodilation where our blood vessels dilate and which then increases the blood flow to our tissues, leading to swelling. This doesn’t mean to avoid all heat but to use common sense and avoid anything that’s made you swell before or that you feel it may be a bit too hot for you.

Exercise

Staying active is essential to keep our fluid moving and our muscles healthy, however, exercise must be graduated appropriately within your limits. Exercise raises our heartbeat and BP, increasing the fluid load into our tissues and causing swelling if the exercise intensity was increased too quickly. Cooling down is important to slowly return our heartbeat to normal.

Airplane travel

The risk during a plane flight is that our muscles are immobile for hours and which inhibits lymph flow, therefore, it’s crucial to maintain hydration, get up from our seat or even move our joints when seated. Prescribed air travel stockings or armsleeves must be worn to prevent lymphoedema for flights longer than eight hours.

Pet of the Week

TALKING TECH

WITH DAVID NORRIS • NORTEC IT • 9894 9514

Why I’m a Waze convert

Waze is an app I use on my phone whenever I’m driving. It is a community-based GPS navigation app that’s transformed how I drive. Waze collects data from its users about their location, speed, and direction of travel. It then creates a real-time map of traffic conditions. Waze allows users to report incidents such as accidents, traffic jams, obstacles on the road and police activity. This information is then shared with other users, who can use it to adjust their route or avoid congested areas. Or, in most cases, slow down when it warns you of police ahead.

Waze harnesses the power of collective intelligence to provide detailed and accurate real-time updates, offering an advantage over static GPS systems.

Waze does send anonymous bits of information back to Waze’s servers.

This data includes their speed and location, which Waze uses to examine real-time traffic conditions. All this data is collated and allows Waze to generate real-time alerts enabling users to avoid congestion and save considerable time on commutes.

Once you enter a route, it will show you the estimated arrival time, the toll amount,

and if there are any traffic congestion, obstacles or police reports on your proposed route.

It can also show you the closest petrol stations, the listed fuel price, parking stations and food stops. It highlights any other cars using Waze that are near you and has a unique social element that will enable you to connect with fellow drivers and chat with them.

I have compared it to a traditional GPS device such as Tom Tom, which my car navigation uses. These offer a less cluttered screen and a more effortless navigation experience. Both Waze and Tom Tom took me the exact same route. Both notified me of fixed red lights and speed cameras. But Waze did inform me of other police activity; in this case, it was a mobile speed trap. Compared with Google Maps, as Google owns both, some Waze features are beginning to appear.

On some journeys, Maps did indicate obstructions or police activity on the road. But it was not as accurate as Waze. Google Maps shines in providing public transportation, walking, and biking directions, an area where Waze falls short, as it primarily focuses on driving.

I’m a big fan of Waze, and I recommend you try it. If you don’t have Apple Car Play or Android Auto, please ensure your phone is in a car mount before use.

THE DHARUG CONNECTION

A special weekly focus on local Indigenous affairs and services

NAIDOC Week at Cranebrook High

On Monday this week, Cranebrook High School celebrated the start of NAIDOC Week with a whole-ofschool assembly that showcased Aboriginal performances, dance, song and story and a smoking ceremony from Nulungu Dreaming.

Four students from Cranebrook High spoke with warmth about the theme of this year’s NAIDOC week – For Our Elders. They recognised the role the Elders have played in caring, nurturing, and supporting the young ones – on a family level, as well as the role they have played as strong advocates, activists and spokespeople for the issues that have faced their communities.

Uncle Les then led the Welcome, and then Jessy explained the stories about each of the dances and songs performed (in language). What was most important was the relationship between Aboriginal cultural life, and natural lore. The caring for country that was central to traditional life.

Craig Dunne, Principal at Cranebrook High said: “It was a truly inspiring event that showcased the rich culture and heritage of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC at Cranebrook High School is an important week in the school calendar and

out students are truly committed to learning about the history and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“The assembly marks the start of a week of activities at Cranebrook High School. Guest speakers, cultural performances, traditional art and craft workshops, students verse teacher games, BBQs and book readings will be held all week.”

Additionally, the school’s Aboriginal Education Team wanted to provide students with an authentic cultural experience that was both educational, interactive and engaging. Students were united in their engagement and respect for the performance.

Highlights of the event included the participation of Aboriginal students performing the

‘Turtle Dance’ with the Nulungu Dreaming performers, a wonderful opportunity for students to demonstrate their cultural pride, and for the wider student body to participate.

Helpful Contacts

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services 4721 8520 nepeancommunity.org.au

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service 4729 7300 27-29 Lawson St, Penrith

Muru Mittigar 4730 0400 murumittigar.com.au

Driving a message with inspiring truck

Western Suburbs

Concrete has unveiled a new artwork on the turret of one of their concrete trucks, inspired by the land it drives across.

The truck is driven by Gavyn Millan, whose tattoos kickstarted the movement, which was then championed by Kevin Dowling.

“Kev noticed that I’ve got some Aboriginal tattoos, and he started asking a few questions about that, and then asked, ‘How would you like a design like that on the truck?’,” he said.

The idea was then brought to Managing Director, Peter Vicary, who Millan said couldn’t have been more supportive of the idea.

“Peter Vicary was all for it, I can’t thank him enough for how supportive he’s been of it,” he said.

“It was really good of him to raise cultural awareness in the area.”

Next, the trio had to find an artist, and ended up approaching Trevor Eastwood from Dalmarri.

Born and raised in western Sydney, Eastwood said he loves painting the land that he’s on, collabo-

rating with Millan, Dowling and Vicary to create something meaningful to everyone.

“The artwork is calling our elders,” he said.

“You know when you see the sunset, and you see the silhouette of the trees in the background, and then a twinkling in the sky? I always think that’s our ancestors watching over us, telling stories and guiding us.

“Then, at the bottom, it’s the Dharug, western Sydney landscape that we’ve walked on for thousands of years, with the rivers and different parts of our land.”

Though the original is still in his St Marys gallery, Eastwood said it was a

special feeling seeing the artwork on the truck after it was finally installed earlier this month.

“The artwork itself becomes a little bit like your baby, so it’s a bit of a proud moment when you see it blown up in such a big size, going all around western Sydney,” he said.

“I’m very proud to have the artwork up there.”

For Eastwood, it’s all about awareness.

“It keeps the conversation going, and is all part of the healing journey of people learning about country,” he said.

Millan said this has already been the case,

KARI Aboriginal Resources (02) 8782 0333 kari.org.au

hoping that more and more people ask questions as he continues to drive the truck all over western Sydney.

“I’ve had people call me, and people at job sites taking photos of the truck,” he said.

– Cassidy Pearce

Aboriginal Home Care 1300 973 058 australianunity.com.au

NSW Aboriginal Affairs 1800 019 998 aboriginalaffairs.nsw.gov.au

Real Futures Women’s Business Second Chance Hub 1800 732 538

Journey to a driver’s

New video series follows four Australians on their path to driving independence

Toyota has assisted four Australians to obtain their driver’s licence in order to raise awareness of the challenges that some people face when attempting to pass their driving test.

For many people, things such as language barriers, disability, severe anxiety, financial hardship or other life factors make getting their driver’s licence a challenge often seeming too difficult to overcome.

This in turn, can lead to greater isolation, particularly in regional areas, or difficulties in gaining or retaining employment, and connecting with family and friends.

To highlight the issue, Toyota Australia supported four individuals over the age of 30 who worked with expert driving instructors, counsellors and a VR driving school, and documented the process in a three-part video series entitled ‘Find Your Drive’.

Toyota Australia Chief Marketing Officer Vin Naidoo said the series

was designed to inspire others who may not have a licence to see how any barriers or challenges to getting their driver’s licence can be overcome.

“Many of us take having our driver’s licence for granted and pass easily in our late teens and early 20s, but for some, there are personal, mental or physical chal-

lenges that mean they struggle to obtain a licence or the confidence to do so,” he said.

“Toyota aims to provide mobility for all and this is one way we can

inspire others who want the freedom and convenience of a driver’s licence to enable them to live the life they want.”

Psychologist Merryn Snare said for some people, not being able to legally drive can have a significant impact on their life in terms of employment opportunities, social connection and importantly self-esteem.

“I think self-worth is a really big factor in this and it’s a really big factor in how we think. Sometimes people have a very high expectation of themselves, thinking ‘if I don’t reach that expectation, I’m no good’, and that can spiral them down in terms of their confidence and their perceived ability to do this,” she said.

The video series follows Zac, 30, partially deaf in both ears and vision impaired; Suzzanna, 48, who has failed her learner’s test six times; Harley, 32, who suffers from ADHD and Maddy, 35, a single mother with diabetes as they learn to drive, overcome their anxieties, and successfully pass their driving tests.

Watch ‘Find Your Drive’ at toyota. com.au/mobility/find-your-drive.

Toyota’s new video series aims to raise awareness about the difficulties some face in obtaining a licence.

Thunder wins major signature

Despite the wintery weather outside, the Sydney Thunder are already preparing for the upcoming summer of cricket, securing the signature of former Test cricketer Cameron Bancroft for the next three BBL seasons.

One of the most talked about cricketers in recent years, Bancroft was one of the players involved in the 2018 ball tampering incident during Australia’s tour of South Africa.

Despite his past indiscretion, which saw him suspended from all forms of cricket for nine months, Bancroft is one of the league’s most sought-after signatures and joins the Thunder fresh off the back of the Perth Scorchers’ title win in BBL|12.

Currently having notched 1595 runs (averaging 33.93) in his BBL career to date, Bancroft made 68 appearances for the Scorchers, finishing his time in Perth as the club’s all-time third highest run-scorer.

One of the competition’s leading run-scorers last

summer, contributing 357 runs from 11 appearances, the right-hander averaged 51 – the third best in the league – with a strike rate of 140.

The leading Sheffield Shield run-scorer last season, notching 945 runs, Bancroft played a vital role in securing back-to-back Shield titles for Western Australia, named the WA Player of the Year last summer.

Head of Sydney Thunder, Andrew Gilchrist, said he was thrilled with the addition of the 30-year-old.

“We’re obviously delighted to have secured Cam and have him as part of our group for the next three years. His talent and ability to contribute on field is evident, but he’s also a fantastic person and we know the value he’ll add to our group off field,” he said.

“His experience at the top of the order will be immense for us and his form, particularly in the second half of the season, made him one of the competition’s biggest targets this off-season. We couldn’t be happier to have him join the Thunder Nation.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Cameron Bancroft wearing lime green for the first time.

Penrith ready to take Pole position

backgrounds, from as young as six to 60-plus. We also run Australia’s only para-pole competition category.”

One of the most talked about events is swinging into town next weekend when Australia’s top pole and hoop athletes compete in Penrith for the very first time.

After previously being held in tropical north Queensland, the 2023 Australian Pole & Ariel Championships will this year take place at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre in Cambridge Park on July 8 and 9. There, elite athletes will vie for a spot on the Australian team for the upcoming 2023 World Pole & Aerial Championships (WPAC) in Poland.

The Australian Pole & Aerial Championships is an established national competition run by the Australian Pole Sports Federation and endorsed by the International Pole Sports Federation.

Federation Treasurer Deborah Roach, who is a three-time International Pole Champion and born without a left arm, said the event will be of huge benefit to the local Penrith community.

“The 2023 Australian Pole & Aerial Championships will benefit the western Sydney business economy as it attracts athletes and their entourages from all over Australia,” she said.

“The event is also accessible and inclusive, being open to athletes of all genders and

Pole and aerial sports is growing around the world. In 2019, the WPAC had 297 athletes competing from 40 countries.

Penrith will be the new Australian home of pole and aerial sport after a commitment from the Australian Pole Sports Federation to relocate the event from Cairns.

It’s a huge win for the City and State especially after last week’s Origin result.

This year’s event is supported by Penrith City Council through its Major Events Sponsorship Program.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said Council was thrilled to be bringing the event to Penrith in 2023.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to have sporting talent from all over the country come together in our City,” she said.

“Penrith is well-known for its achievements in sports and the 2023 Australian Pole & Aerial Championships will showcase something new and exciting.

“Council is proud to be supporting a national event that is inclusive and welcoming for people of all ages and abilities.”

Tickets are on sale now for next weekend’s event and everyone is welcome.

To book, visit events.humanitix.com/ australian-pole-and-aerial-championships.

For more information on the sport, visit www.auspolesports.org.

he 2023 Australian Pole & Ariel Championships are coming to Penrith.

NATHAN TAYLOR

WW51008

Pierias heads west

Major A-League off-season signing

coup for Wanderers

The Western Sydney Wanderers are already making big moves ahead of the next A-League season, with the club confirming the signing of talented youngster Dylan Pierias on a two-year deal.

Pierias makes the move from A-League outfit Western United, where he made his club debut under current Wanderers coach Marko Rudan over four seasons ago.

The versatile forward made his competition debut back in 2017 as a 16-year-old for Melbourne City before becoming an integral part of the United set-up where he went on to make 94 league appearances.

An A-League Championship winner and former Young Player of the Year, Pierias brings added depth and versatility to the Wanderers front line.

Rudan welcomed the 23-year-old to Wanderland.

“Dylan is a fantastic young man and I am very pleased to have the opportunity to work with him again over the next two seasons in western Sydney,” he said.

“We welcome Dylan and his family to the Red & Black.”

Pierias, who qualified for the 2020 Tokyo

before and I was really excited when he called me to come across,” Pierias said.

“It was almost a no-brainer for me to work under him again. Obviously, the Wanderers members and fans too, seeing them every week and the RBB just looks like such an amazing atmosphere.

YOU CAN HELP SCHOOL’S QUEST

Story continued from » back page

“The school is very impressed with how far the girls have gone. They are a determined team but their pathway wasn’t an easy one coming up against actual sporting schools,” Safadi said.

“The entire school community is extremely proud of the team and their achievements so far this year. These girls have done an amazing job balancing their studies and sporting commitments.”

The team’s “super coach” John Faiumu said he was looking forward to Nationals later in the year, and that the school has been very supportive in its fundraising efforts for the costly trip.

“Our school has already started fundraising to help reduce the cost of the trip on each individual student,” he said.

“To kick off the fundraising efforts, the school held a sausage sizzle last week and it’s also set up a fundraising page –the more help we can get the better.”

To help contribute to the school’s quest for glory, visit www.trybooking. com/au/donate/gphsopengirlsbball.

BUSINESS

“I’m originally from Melbourne, but from the West. So being a Westie, having all those values made me want to come across.” With pre-season around the corner, the Wanderers are expected to make more announcements regarding next season’s squad in the coming weeks.

ADVICE & TRAINING

Get

But that “business stuff” is so important to your success. That’s where the Western Sydney Business Centre can help. We have been helping small businesses for years with things like Business Planning and Marketing, Pricing and Sales, Business Resilience and more. Choose a One on One advisory sessions with a professional, independent business advisor who will come to you. Or sit in on one of our many tailored webinars or workshops.

Get started today, call 4721 5011.

The Western Sydney Business Centre has The Western Sydney Business Centre has been delivering business advice as a not for profit organisation for over 35 years, winning multiple national business advice The

BUSINESS ADVICE

Western Sydney Business Centre has beendelivering business advice as a not for profit organisation for over 35 years, winning multiple national business advice awards as both a Centre and as individual advisors as we are consistently being placed in the top 3 business advice centres in NSW. We complete over 6,500 hours of business advice every year.

S1, L1, 111 Henry St, Penrith NSW 2750

02 4721 5011

Western Sydney’s newest recruit Dylan Pierias.

Glenmore Park’s basketball team.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Marathon makes switch

Popular running event to be held in October – and that’s not the only big change

One of the biggest events on the Penrith sporting calendar has a new date and course, which will no doubt delight competitors racing in the popular Western Sydney Marathon later this year.

Runners can look forward to setting personal bests in the spring sunshine following the announcement that the 2023 Western Sydney Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 8.

The event, which was previously held in June at Sydney International Regatta Centre, features five race categories and distances to suit children, families and elite runners.

In a second change, the 2023 event will also feature an exciting new course that will take runners around Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper explained the decision behind moving the marathon’s date and location.

“The Western Sydney Marathon is an opportunity for families and friends of all ages and abilities to get

together outdoors and have fun,” he said.

“The decision to move the event to October is about giving participants the opportunity to run in the best possible conditions.

“With a new, upgraded course around the picturesque Penrith Whitewater Stadium, I’m anticipating we’ll see race records broken and personal bests set.

“So, whether you’re an elite runner or a family wanting to get active, the Western Sydney Marathon has something for everyone. And with four months until race day, it’s time

to dust off your runners, develop a training plan and get in shape for a fantastic day of family fun.”

Penrith MP Karen McKeown said the Western Sydney Marathon is an institution among Sydney runners.

“Penrith has been host to the event at Sydney International Regatta Centre since 2010,” she said.

“It’s fantastic to see the event returning to its original spring timeslot. And with an exciting new course, I encourage Penrith families and elite runners to register for a fantastic day of fun and fitness.”

2022 Half Marathon Female

Social media management without the stress

Last year’s winners.

winner, Angela Caithness, said she’s looking forward to testing out the new course.

“Having achieved first place in this event – my first ever first place, this event will always be special to me,” she said.

“I loved the fact that it was quite local to me. It is a pretty course next to the water. I also liked the flat course, with only a bit of an incline.”

Ronan McNally, who took out last year’s Men’s Marathon, said he’s excited about the new location.

“With the course changes this year the views of the lower mountains will be even more spectacular,” he said.

“I don’t know anywhere else you can run such a flat course while taking in the mountain views and lapping the lakes at the same time.

“I’ll be aiming for another marathon PB this year that I can once again celebrate with family and friends.”

Western Sydney Marathon includes a 2km Youth Dash for kids, a 5km Family Fun Run. 10km run, half marathon and marathon. Competitors can register online at www.westernsydneymarathon. com.au or on race day.

Around The Grounds

BASKETBALL: Penrith’s women’s team have failed to win back-to-back games, going down to the Hills Hornets in a tight one 66-58 in Round 14 of the NBL1 East competition. Experienced local junior Meg Jefferson led her team in scoring, racking up 15 points, seven rebounds and four steals. Meanwhile, Penrith’s men’s team have lost six in a row, stung by the Hornets 95-57. Caleb Fetui-Fa’amoe was busy in the loss, scoring 13 points to go along with five rebounds and a steal. Both teams will play the Illawarra Hawks this weekend at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre.

RUGBY UNION: The Penrith Emus are improving on the scoreboard but are still yet to sing the victory song, going down to the Canberra Royals 47-19 in Round 11 of the John I Dent Cup. It’s been a good couple of weeks for the competition’s battlers, who enjoyed a tight tussle with Queanbeyan the previous weekend. The Emus will hit the road this Saturday when they take on the Uni-North Owls at ANU North Oval.

NETBALL: Panthers Netball are in a period of struggle, beaten by the Manly Warringah Sapphires 59-53 in Round 13 of Netball NSW Premier League Opens competition. Meanwhile, the Panthers U23’s team enjoyed another tight win, this time over the Sapphires 55-54. Both teams will play the Sutherland Stingrays in Round 14.

AFL: Following last weekend’s bye, the GWS Giants will return to the paddock this Sunday afternoon when they take on the Melbourne Demons in the Northern Territory. It will be a tough match up against the fourth placed Demons, but the Giants will be brimming with confidence following back-to-back wins prior to the bye. GWS

sit one win outside the top eight in 14th position.

AFL: The Penrith Rams’ losing streak has continued, defeated by the Balmain Tigers 74-52 in Round 11 of the AFL Sydney Platinum Division competition. The Rams were down by 24 points after the first quarter and never recovered. They’ll take on Southern Power at Greygums Oval this Saturday. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes also tasted defeat, smashed by the Randwick City Saints 69-7 in Round 11 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division Two competition. They’ll look to bounce back this Saturday morning against the Inner West Magpies at Greygums.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed the signing of defender Jack Clisby for the next two A-League seasons. Clisby returns to the Red & Black for his second stint at the club, having been part of the Wanderers squad from 2016-2018. A seasoned professional, Clisby has featured in over 200 matches in the domestic competition, 12 in the Australia Cup and five in the AFC Champions League bringing with him a wealth of experience to Western Sydney. Wanderers coach Marko Rudan welcomed Clisby back to the club. “An experienced defender, Jack is a true professional and we are very pleased to have him return to the Wanderers for the next two seasons,” he said. Clisby said he was delighted to return to the Wanderers. “The Wanderers are a big club and some of my fondest memories are here. I really loved the time that I spent in Western Sydney,” he said.

To make a submission to ATG, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au.

NATHAN TAYLOR

The 2022 Western Sydney Marathon was hotly contested. Photos: JGR Images.

Isabella lives and breathes netball

and breathes netball and always gives back in any way she can.

Things keep getting better and better for local netball star Isabella Degei after the two-time Junior Sports Star award winner was recognised by the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation once again.

After picking up the Junior Sports Star accolades in both 2020 and 2022, the 17-year-old has been named the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Senior Sports Star for the very first time.

On this occasion, the Year 12 Penrith Anglican College student was nominated by her brother Xavier, who said his younger sister’s “drive and determination” were factors in her success.

“Isabella has been playing netball since she was seven-years-old,” he said.

“She has a love for the sport that drives her daily and weekly to train and fine tune her skills to be the best player that she can be.

“This drive and determination have allowed her to achieve so many of her goals, most recently being selected into the U17 Australian squad.”

After captaining the NSW U17’s team to a silver medal at the 2023 National Netball Championships earlier this year, Isabella was subsequently selected into the Australian U17’s squad – a huge honour for the confident Jordan Springs teen.

In his nomination, Xavier said his sister lives

“Isabella has always given back to her sport, whether it be helping out on the BBQ or in the canteen, supporting friends in learning different skills related to netball or being a mentor,” he said.

“In 2022, Isabella was a co-coach of the U13’s St Marys Division 1 side, who won the Premiership.

“Isabella also umpires for her association every week, often finishing Premier League training with GWS Fury in the morning and then heading back to Jamison Park to umpire.”

After her many triumphs already, Isabella says a career in netball is on the horizon if she continues to apply herself.

“Netball is my why… I just need to make sure that I have a plan of what I really want to do through netball and keep continuing to get better,” she told the Weekender last year.

“I need to try and be the best that I can and put my best foot forward.”

On top of her netball achievements, Isabella’s also accomplished in touch football.

Isabella Degei’s Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Penrith Panthers Leagues Club.

If you or you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

Nomination forms are available at www. pvsf.org.au.

The latest Senior Sports Star is Isabella Degei. Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Glenmore Park High School’s Opens Girls Basketball team is still on a high after making some unique sporting history recently.

The side – made up of 10 students from Years 9, 11 and 12 – became Glenmore Park High’s first ever sporting team to

qualify for a National tournament. The school has been around since the late 1990s, but never has it gone this far in a major sporting competition before.

The group of talented players qualified for the National Australian School Basketball Championship on the Gold Coast in November after placing second at the NSW Combined High Schools State Finals earlier this month.

“Each year Glenmore Park High School enters the full range of sporting teams into various NSW Combined High School’s Knockout competitions,” Head of PDHPE, Taher Safadi said.

“Basketball, for both boys and girls, has been popular for our students over the past years.

“This year our Opens Girls Basketball team has had a very successful journey,

which saw them finish second at the State Finals. This achievement has been the highest placed basketball team in the school’s history.”

Despite losing to Westfields Sports High School in the Grand Final, Glenmore Park was tremendous throughout the tournament.