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RUGBY UNION IN WESTERN SYDNEY PENRITH EMUS 1965 – 2018

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Died suddenly on April 30, 2018 Finally out of pain and at rest

Penrith Emus dramatically axed from Shute Shield as rugby officials abandon the west Nathan Taylor reports on pages 68-69

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Penrith Community Recycling Centre is located at: Gate 3, 96 Dunheved Circuit St Marys Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30am-2pm Saturday: 8am – 12pm For more information call Penrith City Council on 4732 7777 or visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au/recyclingcentres

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

More cops on the beat Local police command strengthened with four fresh graduates on deck EMILY NEWTON

nspired by childhood dreams and a desire to give back to the community, four new probationary constables have started work at the Nepean Police Area Command.

Fresh from the Class 333 attestation parade at Goulburn Police Academy, the probationary constables experienced their first paid day on the job on Monday.

Probationary Constable Ryan Napper said he has wanted to be a police officer since before he started school.

“There’s a photo of me at about fouryears-old in a police hat, not an official one of course, a fake one,” he joked.

“It’s been pretty much a lifelong dream for me. It feels good to be out of the academy and into a police station after such a long time training.

“My end goal is the Public Order and Riot Squad, but the main focus right now is to get these next three years [in general duties] done properly, learn properly and get the job done properly, so the offenders go away and the victims get taken care of.”

For Probationary Constable Timothy Trautsch, joining the Police Force has been a family affair.

“I’ve got lots of family in the job and they

I

Superintendent Brett McFadden with the four new probationary constables. Photo: Melinda Jane just speak of it so highly, so that inspired me,” he said.

The ceremony in Goulburn last week was a special day he will remember, with all his family in attendance including his grandmother crying with pride as she watched on.

Nepean Police Area Commander Superintendent Brett McFadden welcomed the new probationary constables to the

newly merged command of Penrith and St Marys.

“It’s fantastic to have four new people working for us with not only our response to the community, but also the disruption and prevention of crime,” he said.

“It always brings a breath of fresh air when probationary constables start and it reminds us of why we joined.

“It’s very important that that’s a regular

occurrence for our staff, it keeps the focus on what we need to do for the community.”

Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres both congratulated the new recruits and thanked them for their extraordinary commitment to the safety and security of the people of NSW. 234 new police officers graduated from the Academy last week.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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An hour with Gus (sort of) L ike a scene out of a US medical drama where delicate open heart surgery was being performed, there was four of us hovered over the computer.

Hope was fading fast. The lead surgeon, Willmo from Vintage FM, remained positive. His able assistants, not so much.

Let me paint the picture for you: Penrith Panthers legend Phil Gould (who has clocked up the rare trio of being a player, coach and administrator with the club) had been in about an hour earlier recording an episode of the Weekender’s ‘On The Record’ podcast.

Gus was brilliant. If something ever happens at Panthers that makes you doubt him, spending an hour with the great man allays those fears. He is one of rugby league’s best operators.

Gus had taken us through 58 minutes of podcast gold. His life in rugby league, the good times, the tough times, the challenges.

At the end of the recording, Gus was gone like a flash. Off to another meeting.

Off to put out another fire.

I hit save on the podcast, and that’s where the medical emergency began.

The word “error” is not something you want to see at this time. “Fatal error” is even worse.

And so the emergency surgery began.

But as they say in all those great dramas, “we lost him”.

It was just one of those things. An error that I haven’t seen in years of working with that software and in radio environments. Just plain unlucky.

With the audio gone and my retirement from podcasts looming, I thought I’d take the opportunity to run you through

Index

“There’s no question Penrith remains in very safe hands with Gould”

the highlights based on my memory and notes, because as always Gould delivered an incredible insight into life at the Panthers.

Here we go...

• Gould revealed that it was former Panthers Chairman Don Feltis who first approached him about a return to the Panthers in 2011. There was no phone call or formal meeting – Feltis simply approached Gus in the Channel Nine commentary box at Parramatta Stadium in round two, when the Eels hosted the Panthers. Gus thought he was coming for six weeks. Seven years later, he’s getting close to long service leave.

• Gould said the most difficult decision of the many tough calls he’s had to make as Penrith’s General Manager was sacking Ivan Cleary at the end of the 2015 season.

But he stood by the decision, saying it was definitely in Cleary’s best interests and he was happy to see him doing well at the Wests Tigers.

• He said that the decision to release Matt Moylan and Bryce Cartwright was difficult, especially given they are local juniors. He said he wasn’t “heartless”

News..............................................1-23 Business.................................24-25 ScanAR Feature..............26-27

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the western weekender Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255 www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith Issue 1335

and felt deeply about their departures.

But he said neither made the most of their opportunities at Penrith. You get the feeling Gould doesn’t hold grudges though. He said he’d love to see both Moylan and Cartwright play for Australia and would be proud if they did.

• Gould spoke of the difficulties he faced as a coach in the early 1990s after the tragic death of Ben Alexander in 1992.

He said it was one of the most difficult times of his life. He is convinced Penrith would have won more premierships in that period had the squad not been torn apart.

• Gould chuckled about the ‘five year plan’ that is the go-to argument launched

by Phil ‘Buzz’ Rothfield at The Daily Telegraph when judging Penrith’s success over the Gould era. Gus is strong in his belief that he never, ever said there was a ‘five year plan’, but of course acknowledged it was always going to take time to re-build the Panthers.

• The 2019 Penrith squad is all but finalised, with Gould and co now working on the 2020 team. However, Nathan Cleary’s contract talks will hold up any progress on how the squad looks. There’s no pressure on Cleary, but the make-up of the 2020 squad will depend on his decision.

• When will Gus leave the Panthers? At this stage, there’s no end date in sight. He believes the club is in a position where if he left today, the systems are in place for Panthers to continue growing. However, he said the Board and management still want him there and he’ll stay for as long as he’s needed.

There’s no question Penrith remains in very safe hands with Gould. A lot safer than me with a piece of audio, anyway.

Your Life .................................57-61 Auto..........................................65-66 Sport .........................................67-72

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Journalists: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Emily Newton | @emmerleener Lauren Suttie | @laurensuttie2 Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Photographers: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Daniel Vella, Rosemary Salmon, Tracey Machut, Chantelle Lang To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production Manager: Irene Adams | irene.adams@westernweekender.com.au

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Woman busted for drug supply

Welcome packs will help women in vulnerable situations A woman has been arrested on drug supply charges as part of an ongoing investigation in the local area.

Police from Nepean Police Area Command established Strike Force Vendor in March 2018 to investigate the supply of prohibited drugs.

Following investigations, a 27-year-old woman was arrested at a restaurant on the Great Western Highway at Werrington, about 9.45am on Wednesday.

Investigators later executed two search warrants at homes on Poppy Close, Claremont Meadows and Pages Road, St Marys.

During the search at Pages Road, police allegedly located a shotgun, a rifle, two replica firearms, EFTPOS machines and a stolen vehicle.

The woman was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with four counts of ‘supply prohibited drug’, and ‘supply prohibited drugs on an ongoing basis’.

She made an appearance in court on Wednesday afternoon.

LAUREN SUTTIE

eaving behind your house, belongings and support network can be scary and confronting for anyone, let alone someone experiencing domestic abuse.

It is for this reason that students from Caroline Chisholm College recently came together to create welcome packs for women seeking refuge at Penrith’s new women’s shelter, The Haven.

Year 12 Kenny House captain, Georgia Wood, said they hoped the packs would help make the arrival at The Haven less overwhelming.

“I think it’s going to be something that will help lighten up what is going on in their lives,” she said.

“I know it’s not going to make everything better, but it’s just something nice to show them that someone out there cares for them.”

Supporting West Connex Domestic Violence Services for over seven years, teacher and mentor of Kenny House, Junelle Dunne, said the initiative had helped students to foster an understanding about an issue that touched the lives of thousands of women.

“Not only do they gain a better insight into how different walks of life and different situations can very much alter

L

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

Students make a difference

Welcome packs are put together for residents of The Haven in Penrith and change rapidly for people, but they also now have much greater empathy and compassion,” she said.

Raising money through the sale of white ribbons, the students then purchased items to make up 100 packs, which included hair brushes, shampoo and conditioner, sanitary products, slippers,

BRIAN

as well as other necessities that will help the women.

Opening its doors just over a week ago, Chair of The Haven, Sharon Levy said that the support from the community had been overwhelming.

“It really makes a difference in the lives of these women and children,” she said.

Police search a home on Pages Road

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Council backs residents Councillors label corridor plan “disgraceful” as they support locals in battle EMILY NEWTON

unanimous vote by Penrith Councillors to oppose the new proposed Bells Line of Road – Castlereagh Connection corridor route and support the 1951 corridor was met with thunderous applause from a busting gallery on Monday night.

Labor Councillor Aaron Duke put forward a motion for Council to formally express their disappointment with the “lack of consultation with residents” and request the return to the 1951 corridor in their submission to the State Government.

“Since 1951, the Castlereagh Corridor has existed with residents in Castlereagh, Cranebrook and Llandilo planning their life around this,” Cr Duke said.

“It’s an understatement to say the community has been shocked.”

He argued that residents feel “completely betrayed” as even though the State Government reinforces that the corridor is only proposed, it feels very real for residents who have received letters about how their property would be impacted.

“We will not tolerate this unexplainable change,” he said.

“We will fight every step of the way.”

Affected residents Stephen Abbott,

A

Labor Councillors Karen McKeown and Aaron Duke with community members affected by the new proposed corridor route. Photo: Melinda Jane Mary Vella and Patrick Serobian spoke in support of Cr Duke’s motion, outlining the devastating impact the proposed corridor announcement has had on the community and the financial cost the new corridor would have on taxpayers.

Ms Vella said many residents have been “sick to their stomach” and that they’ve been treated like “mushrooms in the dark” by the State Government and Transport for NSW.

“We are not opposed to infrastructure, we support it,” she said.

“But in our case, it was already planned in 1951. Why change it now?”

Cr Marcus Cornish called the behaviour of the State Government “disgusting” and “disgraceful” and Cr Kevin Crameri said the announcement has caused significant damage to the community.

“They have ruined our environment in the way they have planned this,” he said.

“These people have suffered a lot of stress, a lot of anxiety.”

Despite the emotional and tense subject matter, Cr Karen McKeown was able to help lighten the mood with a joke.

“We have known where this corridor was going to go since 1951,” she said.

“Dare I say it, since Cr Crameri was in shorts.”

In a move of bipartisan support, Liberal Councillor Ross Fowler spoke with passion against the new proposed corridor, saying Council must speak with their “loudest possible voice”.

“I wholeheartedly agree with what’s been said,” Cr Fowler said.

“One of the things that people like is certainty. The 1951 corridor gave that to residents.”

Cr Fowler moved an amendment calling on more consultation with stakeholders in the area, and Cr Cornish also put forward an amendment against the re-zoning of the 1951 gazetted corridor.

After a vote by a show of hands, all Councillors supported Cr Duke’s motion, with members of the gallery also raising their hands behind them.

Council Chambers then erupted in cheers and applause as residents watched their elected Councillors vote to support them.

No longer an Underground movement Local boutique coffee roasters Underground Coffee are making their mark in the specialty coffee world by winning both SILVER AND BRONZE MEDALS in the recent Melbourne International Coffee Awards. This follows up a haul of medals at the Golden ddeen Bean Beeaann roasting B rooaassttin ing competition. ccoom mppet etitio ittio ion on Director Tim Briggs said 'It is very satisfying taking on the world's best roasters and coming away with a great result, we have been pushing hard to bring the best out of the amazing coffees we buy from around the world. We have been working closely with some of the most progressive roasting experts including Anne Cooper from Melbourne and Robert Hoos from Portland, Oregon.'

Underground Coffee also took on a huge project when buying an old Citroen H van in France and then restoring it in London before fitting it out as a mobile coffee van. The van has lots of coffee-related gadgets as well as a tap beer system which can be used at weddings and special events.

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Corridor emerges as hot election topic as Foley promises to keep original plan EMILY NEWTON

abor will go back in time and keep the 1951 alignment of the Castlereagh corridor if it wins next year’s State Election.

But Penrith MP Stuart Ayres has labelled the promise by Opposition Leader Luke Foley “a Labor stunt” as the issue emerges as a hot election topic.

On Monday, over 300 local residents crowded into Raygal Landscape and Nursery Supplies in Cranebrook to keep the pressure on the current Government to stick with the original Bells Line of Road – Castlereagh Connection corridor.

“My commitment to you is if Labor is elected to form Government at the State Election next March, the first thing I will do as Premier is gazette the 1951 corridor and rip up this new corridor,” Mr Foley said.

“I will tear up this new corridor because it is obscene that people over decades make decisions about where you buy land, about where you built homes, about where you establish businesses, and decades later a government comes in and plows a new corridor through your property for a motorway when, since 1951, people have been told there is a corridor in place.”

L

Mr Foley was also joined by Shadow Roads Minister Jodi McKay, Labor Councillor and Penrith candidate Karen McKeown and Federal Member for Lindsay Emma Husar.

“Once again this arrogant Government has come along with a plan to rip up people’s homes with zero community consultation,” Ms McKay said.

But as Mr Ayres points out, community consultation is exactly what’s currently underway.

“The Castlereagh Corridor has been gazetted since June 27, 1951. It’s still gazetted today. Foley is promising something that already exists,” Mr Ayres said.

“There has been strong feedback from the community in the Castlereagh area that they prefer the original corridor over the new corridor proposed by Transport for NSW.” Mr Ayres said Transport for NSW is seeking the views of the community until June 1 to consider community feedback before determining if any changes need to be made to the original corridor.

Mr Foley said residents “shouldn’t have to wait” until the 2019 election for peace of mind.

“Frankly, it ought to be ripped up today.

You shouldn’t have 11 more months of worry,” Mr Foley said.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

1951 suits Labor just fine

NSW Labor leader Luke Foley visited Cranebrook and vowed to keep the 1951 alignment of the Castlereagh corridor. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, May 4, 2018 ÂŤ the western weekender

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Development Agreement for the former Australian Defence Industries Site in St Marys

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS The following Development Applications have been received by Council:

NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT

â&#x20AC;˘ Samir Bayeh

Penrith City Council has received a Development

DA18/0387

In December 2017, Council considered a request

17 Walter Street, Kingswood

Application in respect of the subject property. The

from the developer of the former Australian Defence

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 4 x townhouses and associated car parking, drainage and landscape works

consent authority for the development application is

Contact: Lucy Goldstein on 4732 8136

â&#x20AC;˘ Paul Lemm Planning Consultant

Industries (ADI) Site (Lendlease) seeking changes to the planning documents applying to the Central Precinct.

The ADI site is split into several precincts, including three residential precincts. These precincts are known as the East, West and Central Precincts. The East

Closing Date: 18 May 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Alexander Temple Salman 3 Pearson Street, Kingswood

now form the respective suburbs of Ropes Crossing and Jordan Springs. The development of the Central

Contact: Kathryn Saunders on 4732 8567

Precinct (yet to be named) is now underway.

Closing Date: 18 May 2018

The requested changes include an increase in the currently planned number of dwellings in the Central Precinct from approximately 970 to 1,400. This new, larger community needs access to appropriate services and community facilities and the development needs to be properly connected to the existing road network.

Council and Lendlease are proposing to enter into a Development Agreement to secure the required services, facilities and infrastructure, including: â&#x20AC;˘ A package of road upgrades worth $34M, including: â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A new road connecting to Christie Street in the Dunheved Business Park, â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Upgrades to existing roads and intersections on The Northern Road, Borrowdale Way, Greenwood Parkway, Christie Street, Links Road, and Forrester Road. â&#x20AC;˘ $3.2M to acquire the land needed to deliver the upgraded and new road infrastructure. â&#x20AC;˘ An extra $1M towards community facilities. â&#x20AC;˘ Additional embellishment of local open space (playgrounds, paths and park furniture) to the value of $1M. Before the Development Agreement can be executed (binding Lendlease to deliver the above items), the $JUHHPHQW QHHGV WR EH SODFHG RQ SXEOLF QRWLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ LQ accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

The Agreement, as well as an explanatory note, is RQ SXEOLF QRWLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ EHWZHHQ )ULGD\ $SULO DQG Friday, 18 May 2018 and can be viewed online &RXQFLO¡V ZHEVLWH RU DW WKH â&#x20AC;˘ Civic Centre 601 High Street, Penrith (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday: 8.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4pm) â&#x20AC;˘ St Marys OfďŹ ce 207â&#x20AC;&#x201C;209 Queen Street, St Marys (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday: 8.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4pm) If you have any enquiries about the Development Agreement please contact Matthew Rose in the City Planning Department on 4732 7703 or at matthew.rose@penrith.city

â&#x20AC;˘ N.F. Billyard P/L

Penrith City Council.

DA18/0382

Lot 2 DP 1169433 (Nos. 85â&#x20AC;&#x201C;88) Galaxy Road, DA18/0374

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 2-storey boarding house containing 15 boarding rooms

and West precincts are substantially developed and

Luddenham Retrospective approval of existing horse trotting track and construction of horse stables including horse water walker and land walker and associated wastewater management system works The proposal is Integrated Development under

DA17/0856

Section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and

Lot 74A DP 399244, 16 Morris Street, St Marys

Assessment Act 1979. In this regard, the applicant

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 5 x 2-storey affordable rental housing townhouses

is seeking concurrent approval from the NSW

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

Details of these determinations are available for SXEOLF LQVSHFWLRQ IUHH RI FKDUJH GXULQJ &RXQFLO¡V normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Approved Development Applications â&#x20AC;˘ Crush & Haul Pty Limited

DA17/1269

Lot 3 DP 157408 (No. 42) Chapel Street, St Marys Demolition of existing structures and construction of a boarding house containing 16 boarding rooms and associated landscaping and civil works DA17/0708

Lot 70 DP 212261 (No. 6) Anthony Crescent, Kingswood Demolition of existing structures and construction of 2-storey boarding house containing 19 boarding rooms â&#x20AC;˘ Pinpoint Interiors (NSW) Pty Limited

Section 91 of the Water Management Act 2000.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 0D\ WR 4 June 2018.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council in submission is made by way of an objection, the

DA16/0722

Resource recovery facility

â&#x20AC;˘ H. Corp Group Pty Ltd

Department of Primary Industries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Water under

relation to the Development Application. Where a

Lot 4 DP 860456 (Nos. 1725â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1743) Elizabeth Drive, Badgerys Creek â&#x20AC;˘ N F Billyard Pty Ltd

DA17/0403.01

JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA18/0382.

Council is required to make Development Applications and certain associated documents publicly available under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. There is a presumption in favour of publicly disclosing all submissions relating to this Development Application unless Council determines that it is not in the public interest to do so.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Sufyan Nguyen on 4732 8568.

Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed RQ &RXQFLO¡V '$ 7UDFNHU YLD penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/

Lot 3 DP 203878 & Lot 4 DP 203878 (Nos. 96â&#x20AC;&#x201C;100 Princess Street, Werrington

DATracker. Alternatively, the applications can be

Review of determination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; demolition of existing structures and construction of 13 x townhouses with associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works

&LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI

â&#x20AC;˘ Damian Borg

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 4, 2018

PUBLIC NOTICE

DA17/0849

Lot 37 DP 9969 (No. 170) Glossop Street, St Marys Demolition of existing structures and construction of 10 x townhouses including basement car parking and associated works

YLHZHG GXULQJ &RXQFLO¡V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &RXQFLO¡V 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW ZLOO EH able to assist with your enquiries.

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

WW33450

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

9

Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN my Penrith

Did you hear about the guy who invented the knock-knock joke?

He won the no-bell prize.

Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au

prize cupboard

T

Emma Murphy

JOKE of the WEEK

here’s nothing like grabbing some popcorn or a choc-top and getting lost in the wonderful world of film.

And there’s plenty of great movies to catch on the big screen at Hoyts right now with ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ wowing audiences and critics.

Plus there’s Amy Schumer’s new movie ‘I Feel Pretty’, perfect for a girls’ night

out. If you’re a fan of getting scared, don’t miss ‘A Quiet Place’ or ‘Truth or Dare’.

And there’s plenty of great movies still to come in 2018 including a new ‘Jurassic World’ flick, ‘Deadpool 2’ and the allfemale ‘Oceans 8’.

For session times and movie details, visit www.hoyts.com.au or call into Hoyts at Westfield Penrith.

The Weekender has two double passes to give away to Hoyts. For your chance to win one, email competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Movies’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, May 11 and winners will be notified by email. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/18/02771.

Cranebrook FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Rashays Penrith FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? The Coffee Club at Nepean River FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Penrith Panthers WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? I love the fact that all my friends live in the same area and everything is close together

TAKE A NUMBER

The A-League produced two sensational Finals matches last weekend and this Saturday night’s Grand Final between Newcastle and Melbourne Victory is expected to be something special.

Labor candidates for the May 12 Council by-election are using signage that says “stop the M4 toll”. Are we expected to believe such a change will happen from local Council? We think not.

Dose of Dorin

2

The Opal network has clocked up two billion customer trips since the electronic ticketing system was launched in December 2012.

“Reaching two billion Opal trips is an exciting milestone showing how far the Opal card has come since we launched it on a single ferry route trial at Neutral Bay,” said NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

“Now in 2018, Opal geographically is the world’s largest electronic ticketing system, covering 40,000 square kilometres, 310 train stations, 44 wharves, 23 light rail stops and 39,599 bus stops.”

The old paper tickets were officially retired in August 2016.

10

Connect with us online... facebook.com/westernweekender

wwpenrith

westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

Cancer concern as locals ignore free screening tests

The free test takes three minutes to complete EMILY NEWTON

B

24/7 access cts

ontra No lock-in c

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Public libraries have always been an important part of society and community, opening up knowledge, literature and entertainment to everyone.

Celebrate with us by visiting your local branch AND lND OUT HOW MUCH WE CAN OFFERç

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/library

WW33402

owel cancer remains the second biggest cancer killer of Australians, despite being one of the most preventable, treatable and beatable cancers.

NSW Bowel Cancer Screening Program Manager, Christopher Horn, said the cancer can be growing without any symptoms, with an average of 216 people in the Nepean Blue Mountains region diagnosed with bowel cancer every year.

“It’s actually something we really need to be concerned about,” he said.

“By the time symptoms are present

and people are talking to their doctor, it can be at quite an advanced stage.”

To combat the alarming numbers, a free home screening test is detecting the disease earlier than ever, making most cases easily treatable.

“90 per cent of diagnoses are in people over the age of 50, which is why the Government has a free screening program,” Mr Horn said.

“They send kits for people to do in the comfort of their own home.”

In the Nepean Blue Mountains area, 49,000 tests were sent to residents in 2015-16, with only 18,000 people completing it. For more information, visit www.dothetest.com.au.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

We need to talk about death EMILY NEWTON

espite most people wishing to die at home, the stigma of talking about death is seeing more people dying in hospitals or emergency rooms.

A Wentworth Healthcare report, Caring for People at End of Life, revealed important end-of-life care discussions are happening when it’s already too late.

“What our report has highlighted is that people feel uncomfortable talking about death, which means end-of-life care discussions are starting at a time of crisis,” Wentworth Healthcare CEO Lizz Reay said.

“Under these circumstances, the person involved is often no longer able to make decisions for themselves.

“This can leave family members unprepared and can result in decisions being made that may not align with the person’s own wishes.

“The result is often unnecessary hospitalisations, or as brought to light in interviews for the report, can result in people dying in ambulances or in emergency rooms rather than at home, or in a preferred place surrounded by loved ones.”

D

Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Clinical Nurse Consultant for Supportive and Palliative Care, Linda Ora, said we need to remove the stigma that exists around end-of-life care.

“The earlier that you get in and have conversations about planning for end-oflife, the more choices you have,” she said.

“With so much technology, medicine has come a long way, people can live far beyond what’s expected at some times.

“We talk about quality of living and that’s what we focus on, but at some point we know people will enter that dying stage.”

For many, technology is unable to enhance the quality of life for certain illnesses, meaning there’s no time like the present to look at our “quality of death”.

To begin the conversation, Ms Ora recommends identifying the person who would make decisions if you were no longer able to care for yourself, and then have discussions about your values and if or when you would want to withdraw from treatment.

“Dying is a normal part of life, it’s going to happen to all of us and we can positively experience that, not just for ourselves but for our loved ones we’re leaving behind,” she said.

Linda Ora believes that while planning for end-of-life care can be confronting, it is an important conversation to have. Photo: Melinda Jane

Attention all sleep apnea sufferers!!

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PRICELINE PHARMACY PENRITH 518 High Street – Union Lane car park then walk through arcade

Phone 4724 2050 for Jenny, Jade, Amanda, Theo

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Nepean Archaeological Group has been preserving our history for 40 years about the people behind the objects from the past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything you see in our workshop has a story behind it,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It makes you wonder who held that blue and white cup. Was it a good conversation or a bad conversation when it broke?â&#x20AC;?

To celebrate the milestone, the group is holding a free open day this Sunday from 10am in the Old Council Chambers, where locals will be able to hold and view pieces of Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have photo albums out on display that a lot of the older people who lived in Penrith like looking at,â&#x20AC;? Mr Ward said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will also be a big bowl full of old crockery pieces for any kids that want to get hands on and put them together.â&#x20AC;?

For more information on the event or the group, call Mr Ward on 0410 679 095.

LAUREN SUTTIE

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no secret that the land in Penrith and its surrounding suburbs holds within it significant history of a time that once was.

Uncovering and preserving that local history has been the Nepean District Historical Archaeological Group, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

And while the group isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t nearly as old as some of the relics on display in its workshop, Vice President Richard Ward said it was a great achievement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been the peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion and enthusiasm that has enabled us to continue for this long,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Started by five Penrith archaeology college students in 1978, they became what is believed to be the first amateur group to receive approval to excavate in NSW on McCarthy Farm.

Since then, the group has excavated several different sites around Penrith, including Thornton Hall and McCarthy Cemetery.

And with over 900 bricks dating back to the 1800s, a collection of photographs, bottles, plates and various nick-nacks, Penrith librarian and member, Alice Sharpe, said it was fascinating to think

I

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 4, 2018

Uncovering Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past

Members Peter Wright, Monica and Tony Glasscock, Alice Sharp, Anne and Richard Ward. Photos: Melinda Jane

`ä í íèí ` Station Plaza is your local destination for convenient and easy shopping.

Located opposite St Marys train station and close to Queen Street, Station Plaza is at the heart of St Marys.

The centre is easily accessible, offering plenty of parking and a range of fresh and local food, health, beauty and essential services all on the one level.

P: 9623 7555

facebook.com/lovestationplaza stationplaza.com.au WW32951

13

Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

L AW a n d O R D E R

COMPLETE L E G A L & C O N V E YA N C I N G

LegalMatters

Police Snapshot

COMPILED BY EMILY NEWTON

Kingswood: Blotto woman had children in her car

A woman caught high-range drink driving with two kids in the car was granted conditional bail.

At 11.35am on Sunday, April 29, police were called to O’Connell Street in Kingswood after a member of the public was concerned about a woman allegedly driving a Volkswagen Golf in a dangerous manner.

Officers attended and spoke with the driver, a 31-year-old woman.

Police will allege while attempting to conduct a roadside breath test with the woman, she struck the officer’s arm.

As a result, she was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where she underwent a breath analysis and returned an alleged reading of 0.308.

Two passengers of the vehicle, aged four and six, were conveyed to Penrith Police Station before being picked up by a family member.

The woman was charged with ‘Highrange PCA’ and ‘Assault officer in execution of duty’.

Her licence was suspended and she was given conditional bail to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 22.

A notification was made to Family and Community Services.

Werrington: Police check uncovers man’s secret

Licence checks on a Werrington man revealed he was an illegal immigrant, driving without a valid licence.

On Wednesday, April 25 at 11.55am police were patrolling Christie Street in Werrington when they stopped a motor vehicle and had a conversation with the driver, a 29-year-old Werrington man.

It is alleged that when the man was asked to produce his licence, he produced a Samoan licence.

Checks were made on the man and it was revealed that the man was an illegal immigrant, and so did not hold a licence.

He was detained as an illegal immigrant and charged with ‘Never licensed person drive vehicle on road – first offence’.

with Daniel McKinnon

He will appear in Penrith Local Court in June.

Penrith: Contender for idiot of the year live streams chase

A dramatic police pursuit through multiple Penrith suburbs that was live streamed on Facebook has seen a 21-yearold man arrested.

On Tuesday, April 24 at 12.05am a silver commodore wagon has pulled up outside Penrith Police Station, and then drove westbound with the driver spinning the tyres. A short time later, the vehicle has returned driving in the opposite direction, slowing down and again the driver has caused the tyres on the vehicle to spin directly outside the Police Station.

Police then pursued the vehicle, and could see that during the pursuit, the man was holding what appeared to be a phone with the light emitting from the screen.

The pursuit has gone through Penrith and Glenmore Park, and onto Elizabeth Drive at Kemps Creek.

Road spikes were set up on The Northern Road and deployed successfully, stopping the vehicle.

The driver, a 21-year-old Glenmore Park man, refused to get out of the vehicle but was eventually removed and after a short struggle with police officers he was restrained.

Checks on the man’s phone were conducted, and it was found the driver was filming himself drinking, engaging in the pursuit and live streaming it to Facebook as it was occurring.

The man was breath tested which returned a positive reading.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a breath analysis that returned a reading of 0.084.

His licence was suspended and he was charged with a slew of offences including ‘Police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly’, ‘Prolong, sustain etc loss of traction’, ‘Drive with middle range PCA’ and ‘Resist officer in execution of duty’.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court later this month.

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

Contesting a will and other news In keeping with our May promotion (see our ad at the bottom of this page), we are offering 25 per cent off initial consultations to anyone who wants legal advice in relation to a disputed will for the month of May. We will also defer payment of our fee until the end of your matter.

Whether you are someone who has been left out of a will, you think you might have not been treated fairly in a will, or you are an Executor who has to defend a claim, we can help.

To be eligible to dispute a deceased person’s will you must fit into one of the following categories: • Child of the deceased • Spouse or de facto partner of the deceased • A dependant of the deceased who lived in the same household as them (including grandchildren) • Someone living in a close personal relationship with the deceased.

In assessing your claim, the Court will consider things such as your financial need (present and future), your relationship with the deceased, the financial circumstances of any person you live with, your character and a range of other factors.

If you have been named as the Executor/Administrator of a will and an eligible person is disputing it, then it is

your job to defend the claim. We have many years experience acting for both plaintiffs (people making a claim) and defendants (Executors/Administrators) in this type of litigation. In some cases, we may even be able to defer payment of all of our costs until your matter is finalised.

In other legal news, 2GB broadcaster Alan Jones’ defamation case rages on in Queensland’s Supreme Court.

Jones is accused of defaming the wellknown Wagner brothers of Toowoomba in 2011 following the catastrophic Lockyer Valley floods.

Jones is on the record having said that the Wagners hold some culpability for the floods that killed 12 people when one of the walls of a quarry owned by the family collapsed.

The Wagner brothers are seeking damages (money) saying that Jones defamed them and brought their reputations into disrepute. Jones is relying on what is known as the “honest opinion” defence saying that his views were his and his alone as opposed to a purported statement of fact, and that the said views were a matter of public interest.

The Jones case follows Rebel Wilson’s successful defamation action against Bauer Media in 2017 in which she was awarded close to $4.5 million in damages. The trial continues.

Visit our website for more local news If our print edition isn’t enough for you, don’t forget to check out our website for the very latest local news.

You’ll find news, sport, entertainment

and plenty more, including lots of exclusive content.

Visit www.westernweekender.com.au today!

We contribute to the Weekender with a weekly legal column

We understand legal services can be expensive, so, for the month of May, we have decided to give readers of the Weekender some great discounts on some of our services. We will be offering up to 25% off our legal fees for the following services: 1. Conveyancing – Buying or selling a property

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WW32768

Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Younger stroke sufferers can often fall through the gaps LAUREN SUTTIE

o matter your age, your religion, or your health, strokes do not discriminate.

But unlike stroke sufferers over the age of 65, new research has confirmed that younger stroke victims are not receiving the support needed to transition back into the workforce.

After suffering a stroke at just 30, local Emu Plains teacher Katrina Cunningham returned to work within a year, but despite the support of her colleagues, found the transition to be a difficult one.

“I think for younger people who have had a stroke, going back into the workplace is a difficult thing to do because the after effects are very hidden,” she said.

“On the outside you look like you’ve recovered, but on the inside things like fatigue, being over stimulated, being anxious, being in pain and people not being able to see that, can be quite challenging.”

Within Australia, it is estimated around 20 strokes happen to young people a day, with 30 per cent of stroke survivors being of working age.

But despite this, a review conducted by the International Journal of Stroke found that only 66 per cent of working age stroke victims had re-entered the workforce after four years.

N

Penrith City Council will hold a special community event to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 13.

The annual ‘plant a tree for Mum’ day will be held for the 11th time to celebrate and remember Mums.

“For those who have lost their Mum, it’s a chance to remember and create a living memorial,” said Penrith Mayor, John Thain.

“For those blessed to still have their Mum with them, planting a tree is a lovely way to support the environment and celebrate their relationship. It’s just such a simple and beautiful act.”

The planting day is free and open to all. It will take place from 9am-12pm on Sunday, May 13 at Dorothy Radford Reserve in St Clair. To register, call 4732 7559.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

Forgotten stroke survivors

Trees for Mum

Grants available

Teacher Katrina Cunningham suffered a stroke at the age of 30 Stroke Foundation CEO, Sharon McGowan, said the lack of support for younger stroke victims was concerning.

“Health and social care services are not well set up to deal with younger stroke survivors, and compared with those over 65 years, younger stroke survivors are less likely to be referred to rehabilitation services,” she said.

“As a consequence, many are returning home without the necessary follow-up therapy and support needed to resume everyday life.”

In response to the study, Stroke Foundation has called on Federal and State Governments to invest in vital rehabilitation research and promote greater access to recovery treatments.

Community organisations in Penrith can apply for funding for local projects under the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program.

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres said Infrastructure Grants support new or upgraded community facilities across arts and culture, emergency preparedness, and sport and recreation.

“I encourage local organisations to consider applying for a project that will help make a real difference to our community,” Mr Ayres said.

For more information including details on how to apply for grants, visit www. responsiblegambling.nsw.gov.au.

Applications close on May 21.

CELEBRATING SWING AND THE BIG BAND ERA 26 OCTOBER 2018 THE JOAN, PENRITH TICKETS FROM THEJOAN.COM.AU OR 02 4723 7600

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17

Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Turning a blind eye to testing LAUREN SUTTIE

isit to the dentist? Check. Appointment at the doctor? Check.

Meeting with the optometrist?

Apparently not.

While they help kids to learn about the world around them, new research by YouGov and Galaxy has revealed that 32 per cent of Aussie kids under 14 have never had an eye test.

And with Myopia, or short sightedness, expected to increase over the next 30 years, local optometrists are calling on parents to get their kids’ eyes regularly checked.

Optometrist at Eyecare Plus in Penrith, David Furniss, said that not being able to see properly could affect kids both socially and emotionally.

“For years, Optometry Australia has campaigned to address the fact that a staggering one in five school-aged children has an undetected vision problem which prevents them from reaching their full educational, social and physical potential,” he said.

Mr Furniss said research was pointing to the amount of time children spent indoors as the main culprit for eye trouble.

V

“We know that in some countries like Singapore short-sightedness affects 90 per cent of 18-year-olds,” Mr Furniss said.

“Sydney researchers found that three per cent of Chinese heritage children living in Australia had Myopia by age six, compared to 30 per cent of these kids the same age in Singapore having Myopia.

“The main variable was the amount of time being spent outside each day.”

And while there is currently no cure for Myopia, Mr Furniss said that there were ways people could minimise the risk of developing it, with regular eye checks at the top of the list.

“Recent research suggests children should be spending at least two hours a day outside to help prevent Myopia onset,” he said.

“Another important tip is the 20-20-20 rule, where every 20 minutes you should look up for 20 seconds at something that is 20 feet away.”

Time spent looking at screens is another big issue with the blue light emitted from devices taking a toll on our eye health.

Local parents are being encouraged to book a routine eye test with an optometrist in the near future, and ensure it’s part of the regular health check-ups your children are offered.

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Sunday 6th May, 9am-3pm Penrith Panthers Exhibition Centre • Diecast Model Cars • Plastic Kits • Trading Cards • Posters • Vintage Toys • Lego • Action Figures • Coca-Cola • TV/Movie toys & memorabilia • Dolls & much more DOOR PRIZES & GIVEAWAYS DURING THE DAY

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

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nights, weekly shows, and a full range of seniors and family activities.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Ponytails get the chop Wigs for Kids: Penrith fundraising event will get people talking EMILY NEWTON

e’re all familiar with fundraising drives, but one local business is encouraging long-haired locals to have a big chop at their hair raising event to help create wigs for kids with alopecia.

On Sunday, May 27 from 10am to 2pm, Insignia Hair and Day Spa will be a ‘pampering paradise’ as locals are encouraged to chop off their locks at their Wigs for Kids event.

Owner Amanda Wylie said that while donating ponytails is nothing new for the team, this event is about paying it forward to help raise awareness – and hair – for alopecia.

“We’ve joined up with a company called Sustainable Salons Australia. They’re a recycling company, so we recycle 95 per cent of our waste, and they donate the ponytails to help kids with alopecia,” she said.

“It’s just something that we’re passionate about. We know some clients that have lost their hair, so this is just something that we can do to help.”

With all staff donating their time to cut the ponytails off, and other businesses including Vintage FM, The Blonde Butler

W

Melissa Byrne, Amanda Wylie, Kiara Daly and Alicia Carr are preparing for Insignia’s Wigs for Kids event. Photo: Melinda Jane and Megan Dunn Photography jumping on board, the day is expected to be full of fun and laughter.

“Anyone with a ponytail that is 30cm or longer, we will do free haircuts for them,” Ms Wylie said.

“We’re going to be giving out little gift packs for people who get their ponytail cut

off, with little shampoos and conditioners. The girls who do beauty here are also going to do mini makeovers.

“We’re also going to have Gabrielle Bartlett from ‘Married At First Sight’ here, she suffers from alopecia.”

Whether it’s encouraging people to feel comfortable talking about alopecia, or

even if they prefer no one knew, the hair raising event is about letting people with alopecia know they have nothing to fear.

The more ponytails, the better, with multiple needed to make each wig.

If you want to take part, make sure you contact Insignia Hair and Day Spa on 4722 3503 to make a booking.

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

We will help you design home improvement to suit YOUR individual needs.

Cut out the middle man by dealing directly with the builder and you will SAVE!

Have your say on Council’s plans for 2018-19 With the 2018-19 financial year fast approaching, Council would like to hear what you think about our planned works, budget, fees and charges for the next 12 months.

We’re spending $271.7 million across 46 diverse functions in 2018-19 for our City. You may have taken the opportunity this time last year to help shape our 10 year Community Plan and our four year Delivery Program. These clear plans reflect what you told us were your priorities for Penrith. They help ensure we’re using our resources to best meet the needs of the community, now and into the future.

From May 9 until June 6, you can view and comment on Council’s 2018-19 Operational Plan and Fees and Charges online at yoursaypenrith.com. au or at the Penrith Civic Centre, St Marys Business Office or any Penrith City library branch.

We will consider each and every submission received on the draft docu-

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ments before they are finalised and reported to Council’s Ordinary Meeting on June 25.

Bear in mind a lot of that money needs to be spent on things we’re already committed to. We have more than 200,000 residents; 26 child care centres used by 2,600 children; 51 community buildings; 1200 staff; and libraries visited by 1500 people each day. We manage and maintain 1,076km of local and regional roads; over 1,250 hectares of open space; 105 sporting facilities; 402 parks; 142 playground sites; 775,000m2 of landscaping and gardens, and 45 hectares of natural areas. You can imagine the bills just to keep the lights on, our trucks and mowers full of petrol, and the water flowing.

We also need to deliver projects we’ve committed to following extensive community engagement.

I encourage you to have your say.

CR JOHN THAIN Mayor of Penrith

GET THE PAPER VIA EMAIL: We deliver almost 60,000 copies of the Weekender to Penrith homes and businesses each week. But you can also receive the paper via email! To subscribe, visit www.westernweekender.com.au.

Dedicated collectors unite at Penrith h event LAUREN SUTTIE

rom action figures, model cars, replica movie memorabilia and old playing cards, you never know what you are going to find when Australia’s largest collectable fair opens its doors in Penrith.

One thing that you are certain to find is Mick Fett, or as he is better known, the Australian Darth Vader.

Collecting since the ‘90s, Mr Fett has one of the biggest collections of ‘Star Wars’ memorabilia in the country, with his two-storey home filled with priceless items.

“When the special editions were re-released in the late ‘90s, it rekindled my childhood memories,” he said.

“From there I started with a modest collection, just buying everything I could get my hands on, with it growing into this giant collection, which now takes up the entire house.”

Taking up a table at Penrith’s Collectomania, Mr Fett said that most of the rarer items he had for sale were in fact toys that many people would remember growing up with.

“In Goulburn I found a collection where

F

the parents had hidden away the presents for Christmas and then forgot all about them until 30 years later when they’ve uncovered them all still in their original packaging,” he said.

“I’ve also got a AFA graded Vinyl Cape Jawa, which is $3,000 and it’s just a little figure that was released in the late ‘70s that is so hard to find now because kids threw it out when a newer version came out with a cotton cape.”

With the next fair to be held this Sunday, May 6 at Panthers Pavilion, locals will be able to take a walk down memory lane for just $6.

And with all 280 tables selling out weeks early, organiser of Penrith Collectomania, Lyndsey Evans, said they are expecting crowds of up to 2,000 people.

“I think it works and is so popular because there is such a variety, there is something for everyone as it covers everything and anything under the collectables banner,” he said.

And while he might be running out of storage space, Mr Fett said he was looking forward to growing his hobby and sharing it with his new little princess in the future.

“Leia, my daughter, is six-months-old and I can’t wait until she’s a little bit older and can appreciate the toys,” he said.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

Crazy for toys

Mick Fett is a huge ‘Star Wars’ collector

DAY M A S S 2018 Please join us for a special Mass in memory of all mothers

10.30am Saturday 12th May at the Pavilion Refreshments served after mass

Part of the local community Ph: 9826 2273 230-260 Western Rd, Kemps Creek WW33190

21

Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Bowling is in the Zone Famous AMF name is no more as ten bin bowling centres are rebadged NATHAN TAYLOR

he AMF Bowling brand has enjoyed a long and rich history in Penrith for decades, but this week the popular ten pin bowling facility underwent a major name change.

Thanks to new Australian ownership, all AMF Bowling locations across the country – including Penrith – will officially be known as Zone Bowling.

Late last year, Ardent Leisure sold its Australian bowling alleys and arcades to the owner of Timezone arcades – The Entertainment and Education Group.

In recent weeks, bowling lovers across Australia have been noticing the changes take effect.

Zone Bowling Chief Operations Officer Belinda Falzon said nothing will change for bowlers in the interim.

“Apart from new signage and new, brighter uniforms – it’s business as usual,” she told the Weekender.

“You will not notice any difference over the short-term, but over time you will see significant improvements in our bowling centres.”

Ms Falzon said changing the name from AMF, which stood for American Machine and Foundry, to Zone Bowling was a tough

T

David Robertinson and Jessica Elliott at Zone Bowling. Photo: Melinda Jane

decision to make given its rich history in Australia.

“It was not one we made lightly but we see it as an opportunity to refresh and reinvigorate the brand and put the focus back on our customers,” she said.

Before moving to its new state-of-the-art Batt Street location in 2012, AMF Bowling was previously located next to Nepean Village Shopping Centre.

For decades, ten pin bowling has been a huge part of the Penrith landscape, with many adults and school kids enjoying the popular pastime on a regular basis.

“Penrith is one of our favourite centres, it’s in a great position and we have really loyal customers there,” Ms Falzon said.

In some further good news, the company also confirmed that there would be no disruption to the many bowling leagues that currently take place at Jamisontown.

“The name change will not affect the leagues at all,” Ms Falzon said.

“We actually want to continue growing these leagues, especially in Penrith.

There’s a couple of new things on the horizon including Bowl Patrol and Bowl Camp, which is a school holiday program.

“We are always on the lookout for new people wanting to join the sport, with a big focus on disability, mature and junior leagues as well.”

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New classrooms on the way as part of school upgrade

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help deliver the high quality education our children deserve,” Mr Ayres said.

“I’m pleased the NSW Government is delivering this important project.”

Education Minister Rob Stokes said the NSW Government was working hard to deliver the school facilities students and local communities need.

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The construction contract has been awarded for the project, which will include 12 new classrooms, toilet facilities and a refurbishment of the school’s administration building.

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres welcomed the project reaching this vital stage and said it was an important upgrade.

“We want our children to have the best education possible, and this project will

Call now for an appointment Penrith: 4721 8212 Springwood: 4751 6711 www.omearaorthodontics.com.au

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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ave you ever felt like you’re not good enough? What’s the point in writing a blog, because who’s going to read it anyway?

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Run your own race In our world, it’s easy to get caught up in what we see in the media, including socials, and think everyone else is doing so well, what am I doing wrong?

Remember this key point – you’re only seeing their highlight reels, you’re not seeing the disaster going on behind the scenes.

Peers or competitors An occasional check on competitors is OK, but don’t obsessively stalk them!

Instead of treating them like competitors, why not treat them as peers that you can learn from, and share work with.

You are good enough If you’re letting that self-doubt creep in, then it’s a good idea to maintain a folder with your positive feedback in your email system, and maybe even a hardcopy folder too. If you’re questioning yourself, step back and have a look at the positive feedback, and remind yourself why you really are good at what you do.

Why are you questioning yourself?

What insecurities are causing you to question your place? Do you need help dealing with these issues? Patterns of negative self-talk are destructive. Our advisors can help with some common insecurities, but some are going to need more specialised attention. Often working on your mindset, attitudes and beliefs will have a wonderful flow-on effect to your business.

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What to eat, what to bin & what to believe

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hat should we really be eating?

This is a common question for many people, as misconceptions and judgments constantly surround this topic.

Cyndi O’Meara, an experienced nutritionist and bestselling author, has spent the last 40 years researching nutrition and the state of Australia’s health and has discovered that it is a huge mistake to continue to use the dietary guidelines that have been around since the 1990s.

“Chocolate is good for you and so is butter,” Cyndi said.

She believes there needs to be a change in the way we think and talk about food, otherwise the statistics on food related diseases and illnesses such as obesity, depression, ADHD, autism, autoimmune disease and allergies and sensitivities will continue to climb alarmingly.

The Real Food for Health tour takes a closer look at the food we historically used to eat and examines food as a whole rather

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than in individual parts. Within the two-hour talk, Cyndi will help educate and empower people on what to eat, what to bin and what to believe.

“Most ill health is due to lack of knowledge,” Cyndi said.

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It’s back to basics with these simple and easy steps from an experienced national and international speaker and bestselling nutritionist that will transform the way you think about and eat food.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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“We have been in business for a very long time and know the area very well,” Mr Dunn said.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

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THE FINAL WORD

FRIDAY, MAY 4 • 7.55PM | CARRINGTON PARK | REFEREES: ASHLEY KLEIN & PETER GOUGH

PANTHERS 1

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Christian Crichton Isaah Yeo Dean Whare Tyrone Phillips Tyrone Peachey James Maloney Trent Merrin Peter Wallace (c) Reagan Campbell-Gillard Viliame Kikau Corey Harawira-Naera James Fisher-Harris Sione Katoa Jack Hetherington Moses Leota James Tamou Wayde Egan 19 Nick Lui-Toso

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 4, 2018

MATCH PREVIEW

Brought to you by…

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Dallin Watene-Zelezniak will shift to fullback for the rest of the season. Photo: Melinda Jane

TROY DODDS @troydodds

N

o matter what the rugby league gods may try, there appears to be nothing that can stop the Penrith Panthers.

One third of the way through the season and with something like $3 million worth of talent making its way through the casualty ward, the Panthers have only dropped two games (both by narrow margins) and have collected six wins to sit in second spot on the NRL ladder.

It is a remarkable record, and there’s every chance the winning will continue tonight when the Panthers ‘go country’ to take on the struggling North Queensland Cowboys in Bathurst.

The Cowboys look tired and ragged at

the moment; more like a wooden spoon contender than a premiership threat.

And it’s not just the poor form of Johnathan Thurston or Michael Morgan to blame – the whole squad looks to be off the pace. Critically the engine room featuring the likes of Matt Scott, Scott Bolton, Coen Hess and Jason Taumalolo just isn’t delivering the impact Cowboys fans had hoped for.

The Cowboys are lacking in what the Panthers boast plenty of – energy, fitness and enthusiasm. Where the Cowboys are faltering, the Panthers are flying. Anthony Griffin has his team in such a mindset that 16 players could leave the field injured and the one that’s left would still hold his own and give 100 per cent.

All of that said, they say you should never write off a champion and you should certainly not write off a champion team.

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Beneath the surface problems at North Queensland at the moment is a very good football team that played in a grand final six months ago and was deserved pre-season premiership favourites. At some point (hopefully not this weekend!), Thurston and co will find their rhythm.

Whether or not it’s too late will be up to those rugby league gods to decide.

With Dylan Edwards missing through injury, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak shifts to fullback for this weekend’s game. He filled the gap left by Edwards admirably last weekend and wants to play fullback longterm so there’s hardly any concerns about whether he’s up to it. Tyrone Phillips makes his Panthers debut on the wing.

With Josh Mansour, Waqa Blake and Nathan Cleary also still on the sick list, Penrith’s backline resembles a shadow of what Anthony Griffin would have planned for in the pre-season.

1

Lachlan Coote

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18

Kyle Feldt Justin O’Neill Ben Hampton Antonio Winterstein Michael Morgan Johnathan Thurston (c) Matthew Scott (c) Jake Granville Scott Bolton Gavin Cooper Coen Hess Jason Taumalolo Te Maire Martin Shaun Fensom Corey Jensen 17 Ethan Lowe Francis Molo 19 Jake Clifford

That certainly has an impact on combinations and set plays, but as long as James Maloney continues to fire the Panthers seem to be covering it well.

These two sides have already played this season and Maloney dominated his opponents that night, with Penrith walking away 33-14 winners.

It doesn’t appear the Cowboys have learned all that much since that defeat a little over a month ago, and with the Panthers climbing, I can’t see too much of a form reversal in this one.

However, Paul Green’s loyalty only stretches so far and for a few players in this Cowboys team, it may be their last chance to produce some form.

As long as Penrith remains relatively error-free, they should have the enthusiasm and confidence to get home in this one.

Tip: Panthers by 13.

31

Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

CLARK ON THE MOVE? » There’s more bad news on the injury

front for the Panthers with fullback Dylan Edwards requiring surgery on the shoulder he injured against the Bulldogs last weekend. It means the talented youngster will miss the rest of the NRL season.

were a lot smoother with McRae riding solo again last Friday night.

On the move?

Oliver Clark

» Panthers legends Royce Simmons and

Greg Alexander have been named in the final 25 contenders for NRL Hall of Fame inclusion later this year. Six new Hall of Fame recipients will be announced in July, before being formally inducted into the Hall of Fame in August. Also making the top 25 was Petero Civoniceva and Ron Lynch, both of whom played with the Panthers towards the end of their careers.

» It’s better news for Josh Mansour who after having facial surgery last week has been told he could return this season.

He’s facing at least 10-12 weeks on the sideline recovering.

» The Panthers may have lost one of

» Skipper Peter Wallace is a certain starter

their most consistent lower graders with prop Oliver Clark (pictured) on the verge of joining Wests Tigers next season. The 21-year-old has had great success in the Holden Cup and ISP sides but is yet to crack into the first grade team at Penrith.

for tonight’s game against the Cowboys in Bathurst despite his late withdrawal from last week’s encounter with the Bulldogs at Panthers Stadium. Wallace has been troubled by a minor neck complaint but has trained all week and is good to go at Carrington Park.

» Penrith boss Phil Gould feels he’s all but

finalised the 2019 top grade squad with very little movement expected in the next off-season. Gould wants to work on 2020 but is being held up by the Nathan Cleary contract situation. While Cleary is being given all the time he needs to decide on his future, the club knows his decision will impact greatly on its 2020 retentions and potential signings from elsewhere.

Gould remains very confident Cleary will stay at the foot of the Mountains despite the obvious connection with his father Ivan at the Wests Tigers and potential interest from the Sydney Roosters.

» David Klemmer certainly earned the

wrath of the Penrith crowd last weekend, and his family and friends weren’t happy about it. I’m told members of the Klemmer clan were far from well behaved during the game and Penrith fans were disgusted with some of the behaviour they witnessed.

» Some sad news out of England with

former Panthers halfback Luke Walsh forced to retire after suffering a serious ankle injury. Walsh suffered the injury in February while playing for the Catalans Dragons and last week succumbed to the news that he would not be able to return.

Walsh played more than 100 first grade games for the Panthers between 2009 and 2013.

» I was told early last week that Penrith

forward Tim Browne would most likely retire after that horrific injury he suffered earlier this year. I put it to the club, but they strongly denied it and said he was returning to light training (hence my piece last week on his comeback). Turns out Browne is retiring after all, confirming this week he’s giving the game away at the age of 30.

» Spotted: Panthers forward Reagan

Campbell-Gillard filling up with some pizza and pasta at ‘Product of Italy’ last week.

» Spotted: Injured Panthers halfback

» Former Penrith trainer Ron Palmer

Nathan Cleary doing his bit for charity at the annual Fitness 4 Autism fundraiser at Jamison Park last Sunday.

» Former cheerleader Nat Sinclair, who has been sharing the ground announc-

ing duties with Scott McRae at Panthers Stadium this year, was missing from last Friday night’s game against the Bulldogs but will be back on deck in round 11 for the Tigers game. While the club should be credited for trying something new, things

has revealed he’s writing a book. Rugby league’s everywhere man would certainly have plenty of juicy stories from his time in the game, including his stint with the Panthers.

» Do you have any Panthers news or

gossip you’d like to share? Confidentiality is assured! Email maskedpanther@ westernweekender.com.au.

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FEATURE

PANTHERS MAKE THEIR MARK NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

A

s always, Penrith’s trip to the beautiful country town of Bathurst this week has been about more than just tonight’s clash with the Cowboys.

The Panthers arrived in Bathurst on Tuesday afternoon where they hosted a ‘Play Like A Panther Super Clinic’ with more than 250 children.

Later that night, they attended a Mayoral Function with Bathurst Regional Council Mayor Graeme Hanger at the National Motor Racing Museum before getting stuck into more local festivities on Wednesday.

As always, the Bathurst community has welcomed the Panthers with open arms.

While it will be very hard to replicate last year’s ‘Miracle in Bathurst’ against the Canberra Raiders, Cr Hanger said he’s looking forward to welcoming thousands of new visitors to tonight’s game.

“Last year was unbelievable. Who would

have picked that final few minutes when the Panthers scored back to back tries to win the game – it was one in a million,” he told Extra Time.

“Tickets are selling very well for Friday’s match against the Cowboys, we’ve already sold 4500 tickets as opposed to 3000 tickets this time last year. The grandstand has been sold out for ages.”

The Panthers will play games in Bathurst until the 2028 season, with this the first fixture in the last five years set down for a Friday evening.

The decision to play the game on a Friday night as opposed to Saturday has proved a bit of a problem for many local Panthers fans who aren’t able to make the two-hour journey west following work.

Cr Hanger said Council has no control whatsoever in when games are scheduled in his city.

“We get no say in it, it’s whatever the NRL gives us. We have no control over when the game is played,” he said.

“We hope many people can still come after work, Bathurst is only two hours

Reagan Campbell-Gillard at Tuesday’s clinic in Bathurst. Photo: Penrith Panthers from Penrith – all roads lead to Bathurst.”

On top of the Bathurst 1000 and famous 12 Hour race, the annual NRL fixture involving the Panthers is absolutely huge financially for Bathurst.

Last year, the game brought more than $750,000 into the local Bathurst economy through the tourism and hospitality industries.

“We are very proud of this game, it’s

certainly right up there with the other sporting events we host every year,” Cr Hanger said.

“The game brings many people over the ‘sandstone barrier’ (Blue Mountains), and it also brings many from further west into town including Dubbo, Orange and Mudgee. The tourism and hospitality benefits are absolutely huge and there’s a real buzz around town once again.”

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE

INJURY CURSE STRIKES AGAIN NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

D

espite millions of dollars of talent sitting on the sideline, it’s business as usual at Panthers HQ. While most NRL sides would have crumbled with the amount of injuries Penrith have had to endure eight rounds in (Manly, anyone?), the Panthers haven’t let that bother them as they sit pretty – albeit wounded – in second position.

This week the Panthers received some good news on the status of injured half Nathan Cleary, who looks set to return in Round 11 to face his father’s Wests Tigers. They also received positive news on winger Josh Mansour, who will be back later this year following his recovery from facial surgery.

On the other end of the spectrum, the club learned that boom fullback Dylan Edwards will miss the remainder of the season with a very serious shoulder injury, while 24 hours before the Edwards news filtered through, prop Tim Browne called time on his 103 NRL game career after suffering a ruptured bowel playing in reserve grade earlier this season.

Despite all the challenges and setbacks,

Dylan Edwards injured his shoulder against the Bulldogs last weekend Penrith have managed to keep fighting by blooding new talent and playing others out of position.

Second-rower Corey Harawira-Naera said there’s a few reasons behind Penrith’s resilience in 2018.

“It really comes down to how close we all are,” he told Extra Time.

“Injuries also bring opportunity, and we’ve had a few boys debut this year already.

“Some of us have even had to play out of position, including myself. All of us are willing to do anything or play anywhere to win, we are all hungry and everyone has a good, positive attitude.”

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Along with senior figures like captain Peter Wallace and Trent Merrin, HarawiraNaera believes premiership-winning half James Maloney has played a huge role in keeping the Panthers on the right path this season.

“We’ve got Jimmy leading the way along with Wal and Mez, and it just makes our job easier with these old heads giving us so much confidence,” he said.

“Last week against the Bulldogs, Jimmy was the first one to put his hand up and say a few words when we leaked a few tries.

“He’s always very calm. It doesn’t matter how much we are trailing, he’s always calm and never panics.”

Due to the high number of casualties, Penrith have debuted four players in first grade this year, each of them doing a remarkable job filling in. While those players will have to make way when the injured brigade eventually return, Harawira-Naera hopes to see them back in the NRL in the future.

“It’s hard on those guys because we are still winning games with those players filling in, they are doing a great job,” he said.

“I mean, no one is kicking stones playing ISP. They know their time will come again if they keep playing well.”

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A blockbuster in Bathurst

ANDY RAYMOND B

athurst, strap yourself in. You’re in for a corker of a game on Friday night when the Panthers and Cowboys arrive in town for their Round 9 clash.

The tale of the tape couldn’t be more different for both clubs, the Panthers are flying in second spot on the ladder following a gritty win over the Bulldogs last weekend, while the Cowboys’ season is hanging by a thread following an upset loss to the Raiders in Townsville.

There’s been plenty of scrutiny on the Cowboys’ halves pairing of Johnathan Thurston and Michael Morgan this year, with the misfiring duo coming under heavy fire from scribes north of the border.

Meanwhile the Panthers have been riding high off the form of off-season recruit James Maloney, who has all but ensured himself of a Blues jersey over the opening rounds of the competition.

But don’t expect to see the Panthers take the Cowboys lightly at Carrington Park, with a quick look at NRL stats revealing that Thurston and Morgan lead Maloney and Peachey in several key areas.

Thurston and Morgan have combined for 11 more try assists than Maloney and

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 4, 2018

Brought to you by

James Maloney was very popular in Bathurst this week. Photo: Penrith Panthers each game in 2018, while Thurston and Morgan have averaged just 124.2 metres.

Maloney and Peachey have been able to capitalise on the platform set by their forwards and have been a constant threat running the ball at a retreating defensive line, while the running games of Thurston and Morgan have been stifled by a

Peachey, they’ve also created eight more line break assists and forced five more line dropouts than their opponents. But there’s one key stat that Maloney and Peachey are in front on.

Running metres.

Maloney and Peachey have averaged a whopping 211.4 metres between them in

Cowboys pack that looks a shadow of its former self.

The Panthers will start the match as deserved favourites in front of what promises to be a mammoth crowd in Bathurst, but they’ll be weary of the wounded Cowboys and conscious of not allowing Thurston and Morgan to run the ball.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

IN PICTURES Photos: Melinda Jane

revenge is sweet 27/0 4/ 18 : The Panthers topple d the Bulldogs at Panthers Stadium

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 4, 2018

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

Maloney is best man to handle injury crisis at Panthers

JAMIE SOWARD

P

enrith are in the middle of an injury crisis at the moment, which reminds me of my first season at the club back in 2014.

Back then we lost a number of players throughout the year but still managed to rise above it all and reach the Preliminary Final.

If I can compare the two sides, this 2018 version is a lot more equipped to handle the injury crisis than the one I played in a few years ago.

In 2014, the side kept on getting injury after injury in the halves. I moved to halfback and we struggled to find a fiveeighth. I think I played alongside three or four five-eighths in the space of six weeks!

Players kept on dropping like flies: Elijah Taylor, Bryce Cartwright, Tyrone Peachey, Peter Wallace.

The injury that hit me the hardest was the one to Wallace, who did his knee against the Cronulla Sharks in Bathurst.

Not only was Wal my halves partner, he was also my roommate at the time and it was hard seeing him go through a serious knee injury.

I remember Ivan Cleary telling me

Wallace wasn’t coming back this year and I needed to get over feeling sorry for myself and concentrate on putting in some better performances for the team.

That’s what I’m seeing again right now with James Maloney.

When Nathan Cleary went down in Round 3 against the Dogs, Maloney moved from five-eighth to halfback and has been leading this side ever since.

Boy, if Maloney went down, Penrith would be in a world of trouble. Thankfully he’s strong like an ox and is putting the rest of the playing group on his back.

You can tell Maloney’s teammates are following his lead too. They know he’ll put the ball in the right spot when he needs to and he’ll kick it out when they are desperate for a rest – the players are backing him and believing in him.

Maloney is probably the Dally M favourite right now because of this.

To win a competition, you need luck with injuries. The depth of your squad gets tested, but Penrith are doing a tremendous job of keeping their head above water.

Interestingly, the Panthers have put

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender • extra time

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

8

7

0

1

0

230

108

+122 14

2 Panthers

8

6

0

2

0

184

120

+64

12

3 Warriors

8

6

0

2

0

172

154

+18

12

4 Storm

8

5

0

3

0

212

111

+101 10

5 W. Tigers

8

5

0

3

0

148

113

+35

10

6 Knights

8

5

0

3

0

138

196

-58

10

7 Rabbitohs

8

4

0

4

0

188

148

+40

8

8 Roosters

8

4

0

4

0

138

120

+18

8

9 Sharks

8

4

0

4

0

124

147

-23

8

10 Broncos

8

4

0

4

0

140

174

-34

8

11 Raiders

8

3

0

5

0

175

174

+1

6

12 Titans

8

3

0

5

0

139

207

-68

6

13 Sea Eagles

8

2

0

6

0

164

201

-37

4

14 Bulldogs

8

2

0

6

0

117

168

-51

4

15 Cowboys

8

2

0

6

0

124

182

-58

4

16 Eels

8

2

0

6

0

114

184

-70

4

CLUB

1

Dragons

+/-

PTS

FACE IN THE CROWD

Round 9

WW32752

panthers

/ / / / / / / /

on the prowl

The Primary Classroom Program at Panthers on the Prowl has been running continuously for 16 years. We serve local primary schools to assist in the development of social and emotional learning targeted at small groups. Each week, thanks to Hertz, we nominate a student of the week from a participating school to highlight their efforts. s.

Thursday, May 3 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium Friday, May 4 6.00pm Hunter Stadium

Friday, May 4 7.55pm Carrington Park

Saturday, May 5 3.00pm GIO Stadium

IS THIS YOU?

Saturday, May 5 5.30pm Mt Smart Stadium

Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

If it is, you’ve won a Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Saturday, May 5 7.35pm Shark Park

Sunday, May 6 2.00pm Jubilee Oval

Extra Time Issue Number 009 PRINTED BY Spotpress Pty Ltd / PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Sunday, May 6 4.00pm Allianz Stadium

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

HERE’S CHEERS!

KAYLEE

s i k e e w e h t f o t n e d Stu

Jeremiah McArthur The student of the week this week is Jeremiah McArthur. Jeremiah attends Oxley Park Public School and has been working hard on his problem solving skills. At Panthers on the Prowl, problem solving is taught as a process where students learn to identify options, evaluate possible solutions, select a path and then re-evaluate their progress. This process not only helps students progress in their learning but also helps them to develop positive interpersonal relationships and resolve conflict. Jeremiah has been more assertive when identifying possible solutions to problems and has made pleasing progress when it comes to solving problems on his own. Well done Jeremiah.

40

The student of the week is brought to you by

Nickname: Kayls Age: 20 Occupation: Pre-school teacher Years as a Pantherette: Three Favourite Panthers player: Reagan Campbell-Gillard Best thing about being a Pantherette: Being able to watch the game from the sideline

Favourite song to dance to: ‘The Greatest Showman’ playlist Biggest guilty pleasure: Eating an entire tub of Nutella in one sitting My dream job: Police officer Biggest role model: My mum One thing people would be surprised to learn about me: I’ve worked with children with special needs/disabilities

SCOREBOARD

SIMS STEPS DOWN AFTER DALLY M CONTROVERSY » Ruan Sims has stood down as a Dally

it remains on track to deliver a $40 million profit for 2018. Chairman Peter Beattie confirmed the guidance given

PANTHERS 22 BULLDOGS 14

PANTHERS 30 DRAGONS 6

JERSEY FLEGG PANTHERS 26 DRAGONS 6

» A new record was set at Fox League

» The ARL Commission said this week

NRL

ISP NSW

M judge after being embroiled in a scandal this week. The Jillaroos star was the Dally M judge for the round 7 match between Parramatta and Manly, but it has been revealed she was playing in a game at the same time and never attended the match. Her votes were a little odd, and it became apparent that she didn’t see the game live as per the rules. The timing would suggest she didn’t even see a replay. Sims has apologised and the game will be re-judged.

last Sunday with 291,000 viewers tuning in to watch the Eels v Wests Tigers match. It was the highest rating Sunday afternoon game in Fox Sports’ history, and was only 21,000 viewers off toppling the free-to-air broadcast on Channel 9.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 4, 2018

EXTRA MINUTES

Ruan Sims explains herself on ‘100% Footy’ this week. Photo: Channel 9 earlier this year which showed that the game is in strong financial position.

However, Mr Beattie said the game historically delivers higher profits in the early years of the broadcast cycle and these even out over the latter years as club grants and the salary cap rise.

» Todd Carney’s bid for an NRL come-

back has stalled. The 31-year-old was on

the verge of a return with the Cowboys but is now returning to Sydney for family reasons.

» Sad news this week with former

Jillaroo Jackie White (Raisin) passing away at just 49. White was a pioneer of the women’s national team (Jillaroo #26), playing five Tests between 1996 and 1998.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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From $26.00 Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler Ph 4733 1274, www.nepeanbelle.com.au

Mother’s Day gift guide 2018

FREE GLASS OF SPARKLING for every mum The Lucky Australian Ph 9623 3600, www.luckyaustralian.com 81 Forrester Rd, North St Marys

ENTERTAINMENT MEMBERSHIP The perfect gift to cover all bases From $60.00 Entertainment Book www.entbook.com.au/48q083

HIMALAYAN SALT PACKS Give mum a gift with a difference!

From $15.00 Salts of the Earth Penrith Ph 4722 2279, 1/76 Henry Street, Penrith

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FLOWERS Say ‘I Love You’ ou’ this Mother’s wers From $8.00 Day with flowers st Ph 4735 1106, Emu Florist uflorist.com.au www.emufl

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Long journey to the top

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LAUREN SUTTIE

t was 10 years ago that a group of guys from Katoomba formed what is now considered to be one of the most loved hip-hop bands in Australia.

Inspired by the growing hip-hop hub in the Mountains, Thundamentals have since extended their roots, gaining a following from people all around Australia and Europe.

And while there have been a few changes to their line-up over the years, Jeswon (aka Jesse Ferris) said the love

and respect shared between the trio is what has kept them strong.

“I think the biggest part of it is the friendship and the bond between everyone in the band and we still have a lot of love for each other beyond the music,” he said.

“Being in a band is basically like being married, so you have to choose your partner very carefully and we’ve been fortunate enough that we’ve always got along and always respected each other.”

Despite releasing their self-titled album ‘Thundamentals’ in 2008, it’s only been the last few years that the group started to gain traction, soaring to new heights this year with their recent number eight

spot in the Hottest 100 with ‘Sally’. But it was the hard beginnings that Jeswon says the guys are all grateful for.

“We’ve done gigs where the only people in the room was the support act that we asked to play,” he said.

“Once you go through those realities it kind of makes the victory so much sweeter because I remember those days like they were yesterday, and I think that is the reason why we’ve been around for so long and will continue to be around, because those experiences ground you.”

Producing music in a time before the hip-hop industry had been established in Australia, Jeswon said they were able to create music they wanted, which resulted

in thought-provoking, relatable tunes that spoke to their audiences.

“It was good because our intentions were pure, and we were making exactly what we wanted because there was no possibility to be played on the radio, so why make a radio song?” he said.

“We do a have a platform to be able speak on topics that we feel should get more attention, so we consider what we say a little more carefully now.”

Thundamentals will be performing at Hotel Gearin in Katoomba on Thursday, May 10 at 8.30pm. Tickets are $36.76 and can be purchased by visiting thundamentals.com.au or www.moshtix.com. au.

y s a ’ r D e Moth 3 T H MAY S U N D AY 1

Spoil Mum this Mother’s day, with help from The Village. Start her day with a delicious breakfast, or treat her to a scrumptious 3 course meal, lunch or dinner.

We also have High Teas available all day.

Bookings and deposit are essential to secure your spot.

Session times: Breakfast: 9am till 11am; Lunch: 12-2pm; 2-4pm; Dinner: 6pm-8pm; High tea all day till 4pm

Call us now to book your table 4721 1155 • 74 Henry St, Pe Penrith enriith ith WW33139

PEN RITH

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Yum Cha

Now Available Saturdays & Sundays Lunch Only Call (02) 4720 5503 to book now

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The real deal! 10CC have sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and dominated the airwaves in the 70s with hit after hit. Now coming to Panthers for one night only, come along to hear classics such as ‘Donna’, ‘Dreadlock Holiday’, ‘I’m not in Love’, ‘Rubber Bullets’, ‘Life is a Minestrone’ and many more!

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10CC TICKETS FROM $74.75 | 8PM

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AN EVENING AT THE PROMS TICKETS $37.45 | 8PM

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MENOPAUSE

THE MUSICAL

TICKETS $49.05 | 8PM

1300 PANTHERS

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PANTHERS.COM.AU

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

A thrilling mystery that will enthrall audiences ALISON WARTERS

‘

An Inspector Calls’ by J.B. Priestley is the first of two productions by Glenbrook Players for 2018.

Directed by Cassandra Strasiotto, the production is widely considered to be a classic of mid-20th century theatre.

The skilfully crafted thriller explores society at the turn of the era, questioning the staid Victorian and Edward values, as well as addressing themes of power, status, class structure and family relationships.

Set in the fictional British Midlands industrial town of ‘Brumley’ in 1912, Priestley’s three-act drawing room drama runs the course of one tumultuous evening in the lives of the Birling family as they celebrate the engagement

of their eldest daughter, Sheila, to the handsome and well-connected Gerald Croft. The arrival of a mysterious police inspector interrupts this happy selfcongratulatory scene bringing startling and unwelcome news that a destitute young woman has just died.

‘An Inspector Calls’ opens at Glenbrook Community Theatre on Friday, May 11 at 8pm, with further shows on May 12, 18 and 19. For tickets, visit www.glenbrookplayers.com.au.

An incredible story WW32595

Takeaw a now y availab le

ALISON WARTERS

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or one show only at Riverside Theatres, renowned physical theatre company, Stalker, will present ‘Creature’, the acclaimed retelling of Ethel C. Pedley’s beloved classic Australian story Dot and the Kangaroo.

A stunning immersive production, Dot and the Kangaroo leaps into the digital age and is brought to life using cinemasized 3D projections, breathtaking aerial performances, live music and dance.

Audiences will delve into a magical world in the Australian bush to explore Indigenous flora and fauna, meet a myriad of creatures in their natural

habitat, and learn how our actions can affect native wildlife.

Based on the 1899 children’s book, five-year-old Dot is rescued by a kangaroo after becoming lost in the bush and what follows is an action-packed adventure as they head back home.

But it’s not just an incredible sensory experience, with the production delivering an important environmental and social message, preserving the environmental message of Pedley’s story, while bringing Dot and her host of animal friends to life for a new generation.

‘Creature: An Adaption of Dot and the Kangaroo’ will be on at Riverside Theatres on Tuesday, May 15. Tickets start at $24. Call 8839 3399.

Shop 2/91 GW Highway, Emu Plains

WW28890

Enjoy 10% off every Wednesday and Thursday from now until June!* Book now www.jabalna.com.au WW33084

*Discount is valid for food only. Promotion runs through May 31st 2018 at 9:00pm and applies for dine-in guests only.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

Step back in time

T

he Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra (ACRO) is taking a step back in time, allowing locals to discover the distinctive colours of 18th century instruments that have since been forgotten in our world of modern instruments.

Presenting Mozart’s ‘Eine kleine Nachtmusik’ and Beethoven’s ‘Storm’ Quintet, the ARCO Chamber Soloists will also be introducing audiences to two lesser-known works from the same period – an octet for winds and strings

by German opera composer Peter von Winter and a wind quartet by Italian

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LAUREN SUTTIE

Vincenzo Gambaro. The program is a wonderful opportunity to hear up-close how the delicate qualities of the earlier wind instruments – flute, clarinet, bassoon, horn – enhanced the tonal breadth of the gut strings.

Performing at Blackheath’s historical guesthouse, the Yabba Yabba house, for one night only, the audience will not only be delighted through sound, but through sight as well. It’s a show not to be missed.

The Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra will be playing at Yabba Yabba Residence in Blackheath on Saturday, May 12 at 4pm. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased by visiting www.arco.org.au.

Every mum deserves a break

VALUED AT $2089!

WIN MUM A THERMOMIX! SIMPLY SPEND $20 IN ANY SPECIALTY RETAILER, OR $80 IN ALDI, COLES OR WOOLWORTHS BETWEEN 1ST -13TH MAY. Grab an entry form from your retailer, fill it out & a ach your receipt.

Place your entry in our barrel and mum could be our lucky winner!

Winner will be drawn on 14th May. *Visit our website for full Terms & Conditions.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THERMOMIX? JOIN US FOR A DEMO | Sat 5th May at 11am (near Woolworths) and 1pm (near Coles) GLENMOREPARKTOWNCENTRE.COM.AU 1 TOWN TERRACE, GLENMORE PARK NSW 2745 WW33456

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, May, 4 Karaoke/DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Planet Groove, I Love The 80s – O’Donoghues Free entry, 9pm 4735 5509 Mary’s Karaoke and DJ – Hawkesbury Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4577 305 10CC – Evan Theatre From $74.75, 8pm 1300 PANTHERS Sue Nicholson – Rooty Hill RSL $64.95, 2pm 9677 4916 Danger Baby – Aunty Jack’s Free entry, 7pm 4760 8837 Abby May – Tattersalls Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4744 2002 Jennifer Knight – Hotel Blue Free entry, 6.30pm 4782 6922 Joe Apap – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 6.30pm 9830 0600 Ultimate Girls Night Out – Hawkesbury Hotel Free entry, 6pm 4577 3050 Joseph Tawadros Blue Mountains Theatre 4723 5050 Friday, May 4, 8pm, $38

Free entry, 1pm 9677 4916 Clive Hay – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4728 5200 Ipanema Duo – Blacktown Sports Club Free entry, 1pm 8822 2444

The Button Collective Metropole Guesthouse 4782 5544 Saturday, May 12, 6pm, from $15

Friday, May 11 Karaoke/DJ – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Adrian Joseph – Lapstone Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4739 1266 Mary’s Karaoke and DJ – Hawkesbury Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4577 305 Straight Outta Compo – Rooty Hill RSL $49.90, 8pm 9677 4916 Urban Stone – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777

Saturday, May 12

The Pink Chevys – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Christie Lamb – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 John Mackie, Yuki Kumagai Jazz Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Nirvana Tribute – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Frocks – Blacktown Sports Club Free entry, 9pm 8822 2444 Fiesta Viva Trio – O’Donoghues Free entry, 8pm 4735 5509 Kate Woolfe Trio – Hotel Blue Free entry, 6.30pm 4782 6922 Soundbird – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Heiress – John Lees Centre From $20, 1.30pm and 7.30pm www.rubyproductions.com.au Beatworx – The Australian Arms Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 At Evening at the Proms – Evan Theatre $37.45, 8pm 1300 PANTHERS Menopause the Musical – Blacktown Workers $45, 8pm 9830 0600

Saturday, May 5

Sunday, May 6

The Vicar of Dibley – Wentworth Falls Country Club $80, 6.30pm 4757 1202

60s Chartoppers – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Blake Tailor – Rooty Hill RSL

Laurie Bennett – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Chris Drummond Duo – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Thunderstruck AC/DC Show – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 ABBAsolutely Fabulous – Rooty Hill RSL $45, 7.30pm 9677 4916 M7 – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Black Velvet – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Straight Outta Compo Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Friday, May 11, 8pm, $49.90

The Bandits – Blacktown Sports Club Free entry, 9pm 8822 2444 The Heiress – John Lees Centre From $20, 1.30pm and 7.30pm www.rubyproductions.com.au Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra – Yabba Yabba Residence From $30, 4pm www.arco.org.au Forever Diamond, Peter Byrne – Blacktown Workers From $20, 8pm 9830 0600 Hurricane Fall Wheels Up – Rooty Hill RSL $25, 8pm 9677 4916 Rough Stock – Hawkesbury Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4577 3050

Sunday, May 13 Jed Zarb – The Henry Sports Club Free entry, 12pm 9623 2119 Mini Putt Putt – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4773 8888

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An Evening at the Proms Evan Theatre 1300 PANTHERS Saturday, May 5, 8pm, $37.45

O D UST

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Penrith 35+ Social Group Most Friday and Saturdays 0418 254 229 Leonay Probus Club Third Friday of the month 4735 5157 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Emu Craft Market Second Saturday of the month • Nepean High School Lung Support Group Second Wednesday of each month • 4735 1542 Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Penrith Harmony Barbershop Chorus • Mondays at 7pm 4735 2637

Fall in love with 10CC at Panthers tonight!

Back touring down under, don’t miss out on 10CC’s only show at Penrith Panthers this Friday, May 4 as they play all the hits including ‘I’m Not In Love’, ‘Dreadlock Holiday’ and ‘The Things We Do For Love’. 10CC has sold more than 15 million albums in the UK and 30 million albums worldwide, and this is a rare opportunity to see them in our own backyard. Tickets start from $74.75 and can be purchased by calling 1300 PANTHERS or by visiting penrith.panthers.com.au.

FOR SE NIORS

S D I K R FO

Emu Plains Lions Club New members always needed • 4735 5120 Sparkling High Tea Sunday, June 24 at 1pm Mulgoa • 0402 109 602 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143

Fun activities at Penrith Regional Gallery

Penrith City Choir

Stimulate your child’s creativity and imagination as they get hands-on at the Penrith Regional Gallery this Friday for some tot sized fun.

Come and experience the power and excitement of singing with the Penrith City Choir this Wednesday at The Joan.

Sunset Station Singers Mondays 7.30pm St Marys RSL • 0405 223 113

Avengers: Infinity War (M) Thurs, Mon, Tues: 10:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:10PM, 12:50PM, 1:50PM, 2:15PM, 2:50PM, 3:30PM, 4:10PM, 5:10PM, 6:10PM, 6:40PM, 7:15PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM, 8:30PM, 9:00PM, 9:30PM. Fri: 10:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:10PM, 12:50PM, 1:50PM, 2:15PM, 2:50PM, 3:30PM, 4:10PM, 5:10PM, 6:10PM, 6:40PM, 7:15PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM, 8:30PM, 9:00PM, 9:30PM, 10:40PM.

PENRITH

Sat: 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 12:15PM, 12:50PM, 1:50PM, 2:50PM, 3:30PM, 4:10PM, 5:10PM, 6:10PM, 6:40PM, 7:10PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM, 8:30PM, 9:00PM, 9:30PM, 10:40PM.

SESSIONS VALID 3 MAY TO 9 MAY

Sun: 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 12:10PM, 12:50PM, 1:50PM, 2:50PM, 3:30PM, 4:10PM, 5:10PM, 6:10PM, 6:40PM, 7:20PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM, 8:30PM, 9:00PM, 9:30PM. WW29582

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

Wed: 10:10AM, 11:30AM, 12:10PM, 12:30PM, 12:50PM, 1:30PM, 2:50PM, 3:30PM, 4:10PM, 4:50PM, 5:45PM, 6:10PM, 6:40PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM, 8:20PM, 9:00PM, 9:30PM.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Ê Channel Ten has teased its new season of ‘Shark Tank’, due to hit screens on Tuesday, May 15 at 8.30pm. Ranging from the wonderful to the wacky, the products presented before the Sharks this season include the world’s first fully articulated, life-like and camera-ready prosthetic baby; an online site selling rude and unPC gifts; and a ‘donug’, a cross between a chicken nugget and a doughnut.

Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Still on Ten and we’re only a few days away from the latest instalment of ‘MasterChef Australia’, with the new season to begin this Monday, May 7 at 7.30pm.

Following its premiere, the show will then continue Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. Ê Following Ita Buttrose’s shock recent departure from ‘Studio 10’, it’s been revealed that comedian Denise Scott and entertainment reporter Angela Bishop will be her and Jessica Rowe’s replacements on the popular morning show. Ê Keep an eye out for yet another TV revival, with US drama ‘West Wing’ the latest show to be tossed up this week. It’s been reported that NBC is very interested in another series, around nine to 13 episodes. The original highly-acclaimed political drama ran from 1999 to 2006. Ê

Channel Nine has revealed they have received more than 9000 applications for the next season of ‘Travel Guides’. We all know the Fren family will be back, but each of the other spots is up for grabs.

Ê Channel Ten is looking for teams of two, who have a great range of general knowledge, to compete in an upcoming

SHARK TANK MAY 15 CHANNEL TEN new quiz show for the network. To apply, visit go.mycastingnet.com/Apply/Show/ QuizShow.

Ê Netflix and Dreamworks have announced they will be making a ‘Fast & Furious’ animated series.

Ê US medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ has been renewed for a 15th season.

Channel Seven is currently airing season 14 in Australia.

Ê If you are an avid fan of ‘Bold and the Beautiful’, Channel Ten has started airing double episodes of the popular soap from 4pm weekdays. The change began this week and is anticipated to continue until Australia catches up to the US.

Ê National Geographic has confirmed that Frankenstein author Mary Shelley will be the next subject of its hit anthology series, ‘Genius’. It will be the first time a woman has been the focus of the series, which has previously showcased Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso. The second series of ‘Genius’, featuring Picasso, is currently airing Tuesdays on National Geographic.

Ê Season nine of ‘Modern Family’ premiered on its new home this week to fantastic ratings. Season nine of the hit comedy currently airs Wednesday nights on Channel Seven. Ê It’s been confirmed Ali Oetjen will be the next ‘Bacherlorette’.

Blue Mountains Musical Society J.B.Priestley’s

directed by Cassandra Strasiotto

Music and Lyrics by

Book and Lyrics by

Mark Hollman

Greg Kotis

URINETOWN was produced on Broadway in September, 2001 by the Araca Group and Dodger Theatricals in association with TheaterDreams, Inc., and Lauren Mitchell.

MAY 19 - June 3

11-19 May

Blue Mountains Theatre

Glenbrook Community Theatre

Tickets on sale now!

Adults: $25; Matinee: $22

www.bmms.org.au

Friday 11 May 8.00pm, Saturday 12 May 2.00pm Saturday 12 May 8.00pm, Friday 18 May 8.00pm Saturday 19 May 2.00pm, Saturday 19 May 8.00pm

Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia). All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.

www.glenbrookplayers.com.au or 4739 1110 Group bookings and credit card facilities available

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Musical by Queen and Ben Elton

Oct/nov 2018

Bookings:

WW32615

Sam, Linda and David enjoy the event at the Red Cow on Wednesday

Tamara Taylor from ANZ and Kara Blackburn from Rehab Services Penrith

Mary Anne Lowery and Gemma Wilson

Stephen, Chadrick, Armand and Romesh enjoy the event

Michelle Bootland from Konekt with Liz, enjoying the Wednesday morning event

Bronte Couchman and Katrina Couchman from WATSO

Chris Van Eynde from Rehab Services Penrith with Dana from Action Insurance

Above:

The Penrith CBD Corporation held its monthly Coffee Catch-up networking event at the Red Cow on Wednesday

Below:

Local business representatives enjoyed the hospitality of the Weekender corporate box at Panthers Stadium last Friday night

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 4, 2018

Social Scene

we create. you celebrate. custom designed event styling ďŹ&#x201A;oristry | stationery wildbluestudio.com.au WW31657

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

Crossword brought to you by BOQ.

www.boq.com.au 4723 7650

1

2

3

11

crossword ACROSS 1. Tofu bean 4. Strangely unexpected 8. Expert, dab ...

11. Squirrel nut 13. Golden Globe or Oscar 15. Designated (region) 17. Circle portion 18. Express appreciation to 20. Large antlered animal 21. Woodwind instruments 24. Vietnam’s capital 27. Writer, Edgar Allan ...

28. Matter 30. Hard sell 31. Low-lying areas 33. Walks heavily 34. Layers 35. Roman emperor 36. Current (1,1/1,1) 39. Enter (4,2) 42. Shabbily-dressed woman 44. Robust 45. US oil state 46. Swedish car brand 48. Fawn shade 49. Prolonged assault 50. Healing gel, aloe ...

52. Battery segments 54. Bank cash dispensers (1,1,2) 55. Instruct 56. Cord fringe 57. Famous monster loch 60. Panache 62. Lathe operator 65. Telco technology, fibre ...

67. Sherlock Holmes’ creator, Arthur Conan ...

69. Not a single person (2-3) 70. Verve 72. Unruly crowd 73. Bladders 75. Golf clubs 77. Frequently (poetic) 79. In the know 81. Nuptial vow (1,2) 82. DIY (book) (3-2) 84. Explorer, ... Polo 85. Actor, Errol ...

86. Spiteful 87. Shoves 88. Peace Prize city

DOWN 1. Dimensions 2. Tugs 3. Unreturnable tennis serve 4. Unbutton 5. Fasteners 6. Alcoves 7. Open mouth wearily 8. Royal title (1,1,1) 9. Adjust 10. Anti-flood embankment 12. Whiff 14. At an angle 16. Martini garnish 19. Pried (into) 22. Ringo or Paul 23. Group feeling, ... de corps 25. Modifies 26. Family crest, coat ...

(2,4) 29. Storing charge 32. Top credit rating (1,1,1) 35. Infant 37. Dices 38. Hunter-gatherer 40. Heads-up 41. Better late than ...

42. Defect 43. Savoury food spread 44. Skin rash 47. Without purpose 51. Actress, ... Hepburn 52. London opera house, ... Garden 53. Military engineer 54. Appoint 58. Provide (with) 59. Pig’s home 61. Overhead 63. Gastric ailment 64. Brighter (future) 65. Eye-watering vegetables 66. Comfortable (job) 68. President Barack ...

71. Urban centres 72. Mutilate 74. Discharged firearm 76. Clodhoppers 78. Fuss (2-2) 80. Screened (movie) 83. Lennon’s widow, Yoko ...

Last week’s solution

15

4

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

21

28

22

23

29

18

24

25

27

31

32

34

35

36

39

40

41

44

42

45

38

46

47

49

50

51

52

53

55

58

67

54

56

59

62

60

63

64

68

73

79

65

70

74

80

75

71

76

81

84

61

66

69

72

86

37

43

48

57

19

26

30

33

10

14

17

20

9

77

82

78

83

85

87

Sudoku brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

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creative A U

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sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au 4722 2998

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

Last week’s Sudoku solution

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

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: GENEALOGY ADOPTION ANCESTORS CERTIFICATES CHURCH RECORDS COURT DATES DEATH FAMILIES FAMILY BIBLE FATHER GENEALOGIST GENERATIONS GIVEN NAMES MOTHER OBITUARIES OFFSPRING ORAL TRADITION PASSENGER LISTS PATERNAL STUDY SURNAME TOMBSTONES TOWN TRACE Last week’s Word Search solution

Test your knowledge about the Royal Family in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. We celebrate the Queen’s Birthday in June, but when is Queen Elizabeth II’s actual birthday?

2. In what year did Prince Charles and Diana Spencer get married?

3. Which ‘Suits’ actress will

marry Prince Harry later this month?

4. In what year was Prince George born?

5. How many times has Prince Charles been married?

6. What was Buckingham Palace originally known as?

ANSWERS 1. April 21 2. 1981 3. Meghan Markle 4. 2013 5. Twice 6. Buckingham House

Trivia Quiz

All things baby for when they are squishy till when they are sticky.

• Bibs and Burp Cloths • Dummy Clips • Quilts • Taggie and Sensory Mats • Pillows and Cushions Bring your custom ideas to life! Contact us today! squishlets@optusnet.com.au | 0403 274 068

WW31656

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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4736 4466

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WW33393

life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

On Tuesday and Wednesday you’ll feel restless and ready for spontaneous shenanigans and avant-garde adventures. Then on Saturday, Mercury and Mars contribute to the tendency to argue and use words as weapons. And Sunday’s Mercury/Uranus hook-up boosts impulsive behaviour. You’ll feel fiery, feisty, racy and rather rebellious but pace yourself or you’re very likely to blow a fuse!

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

This week the Sun trines Pluto. So it’s time to tap into your innate Taurean power and become the strong, smart and sexy Earth Goddess (or god) you were born to be. As Katharine Hepburn said: “You can’t just be talented: you have to be terribly smart and energetic and focused.

Don’t just show up. Transform the work, yourself and everybody around you. Be needed. Be interesting. Be consistent”.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

A tablespoon of tact and a dollop of discretion are the secrets to a stress-free week. But expect an eventful weekend, when Mercury squares Mars and then links up with Uranus. Make sure your restless mood doesn’t lead to reckless behaviour and a loose tongue. Think twice before you spread secrets and salacious gossip. Passing on unverified hear-say could lead to unexpected consequences, like a fall-out with a pal.

Joanne Madeline Moore

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Daily posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2018

You’ll feel frustrated and moody on Monday, but resist the temptation to start arguments and arouse opposition in others (especially loved ones). And be extra careful what you say because hasty comments can cut like a knife. So choose your words wisely. Draw inspiration from fellow Cancerian, Princess Diana: “I don’t go by the rule book. I lead from the heart, not the head”.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The energy builds all week, leading to the powerful Sun/Pluto trine, which will boost your Leo talents and Cat charisma.

So make sure you do something special on Saturday. Then on Sunday, you’ll feel ready to introduce an exciting international flavour to the mix. So start planning (and saving) for that European escape, Timbuktu trek, Himalayan holiday, South American sojourn or Asian adventure sometime soon!

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Get set for a big week, as you overdo just about everything. Under the influence of the Sun and Jupiter, you’re inclined to be generous and garrulous; enthusiastic and exhausting; restless and reckless; passionate and pushy. You’ll certainly be hard to ignore as you ruffle a few feathers with your impulsive ideas and shenanigans. But jumping to conclusions could land you in hot water – especially when it comes to a child, teenager or friend.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

When it comes to a child, teenager, lover or friend you’re on a mission to correct their mistakes and change their behaviour. But you’ll get a lot further if you criticise less and encourage a lot more.

And the greatest realisation this week is that you really can’t change anyone. As Katharine Hepburn said: “You learn in life that the only person you can really correct and change is yourself”.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Clever Capricorns know that sustainable success doesn’t just drop out of the sky.

So this week’s stars are super for utilising every opportunity that comes your way, as you make things happen through consistent hard work, awesome organisation and forensic attention to details. If you tap into the creative power source within, you really can transform your life.

Also dream big on Friday night!

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Are you sick and tired of being single?

Romantic sparks are set to fly, as this week’s stars rev up your relationship zone. But the course of true love won’t run smoothly. So take off your rosecoloured glasses and be prepared for a wild card. If you are attached, don’t depend solely on the love of your partner to validate your self-worth. As Oscar Wilde declared: “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance”.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Creative and innovative communication is the secret to a successful week. But resist the compelling urge to launch half-baked projects and jump to hasty conclusions. Listen closely to what others are telling you, otherwise you’ll misunderstand their motives. And be careful what you post online, as a controversial comment could lead to consequences.

The late week Sun/Pluto connection could precipitate a magical meditation.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Prepare for a week of extremes! Frustration levels rise on Monday, culminating in a dramatic disagreement with a friend or colleague. Whatever happens, try to keep things in perspective and resist the temptation to be sarcastic, manipulative or just plain pushy. The weekend looks wonderful when Pluto (your power planet) trines the Sun, which boosts your enthusiasm, motivation and mojo.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

your

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The buzz word this week is honesty. Have you been less than 100 per cent truthful with a family member? On Monday and Tuesday, the Venus/Neptune square could lead to confusion involving your true motives. Or someone could question your version of events. Or you could disappoint a loved one by blurring the lines between fact and fantasy. Things will improve later in the week.

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Why using a financial planner can have long term benefits

money

Negative headlines may be convincing you otherwise, but financial planners provide a vital service...

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

The Royal Commission has certainly caught some media attention with the banks and AMP being rightfully called out on some appalling behaviour. Something I noticed myself on social media was a lot of comments encouraging people to “do it themselves” and not seek financial advice. I’ve also read a number of comments from people providing advice that is either wrong, overly simplistic or only correct for a small number of people. This is dangerous and may be an unintended consequence of the Royal Commission.

All this reminded me that most people have little understanding of what financial planners do and how we can help you.

Selecting a superannuation fund is not where an advisor adds value. Although they can assist in making sure that your fund is appropriate, this is only a small part of the advice they provide.

The superannuation system is complicated and there are numerous complexities that lead to risks and opportunities.

These are wide ranging and include things that are well known such as

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contribution limits and preservation issues to lesser known details like the varying tax treatment for different types of beneficiaries. An advisor can assist in navigating through these things.

Good advice can result in significantly reducing your taxation or dramatically increasing your Centrelink entitlements.

The Transition to Retirement income swap strategy reduces your tax and boosts retirement savings by replacing taxable money with money that is taxed

concessionally. This can make an enormous difference in both the short and long-term. The structuring of your assets can dramatically affect your income and assets test Centrelink assessments, and good advice in regards to this will be of great benefit.

Simple things like determining how much income you will need in retirement and what assets you will require to fund this income is something an advisor can help you with. Advisors can also work out how much insurance you need and how that should be structured. There are different premium structures, level and stepped, each having different pros and cons, and it’s important you have the right option for your needs. Owning insurance inside and outside of superannuation has its own intricacies with diverse taxation and preservation issues that have different requirements depending on your situation. I’ve barely scratched the surface of how financial advice can help!

Advisors assist to establish goals and develop plans, generate risk and debt reduction strategies and match investments to needs. All of these services offer great value to clients above and beyond the technical complexities I’ve already mentioned.

Although some people have the knowledge and skill to do it themselves, most people will be significantly better off seeking advice from a professional.

your education

Rob Ollis

Master Coaching Penrith 4722 3072

Testing is a crucial part of learning and teaching, but it needs to be done right to have the best impact...

The National Assessment Program NAPLAN was devised by the Federal Education Department (FED) to hold schools accountable for their performance as learning institutions.

In pursuit of these original goals the FED conduct annual assessments for all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. It tests the types of skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) is the independent statutory authority responsible for the overall management of the Australian National Assessment Program, in collaboration with representatives from all states and territories and non-government school sectors.

Unfortunately, the test that was created to “keep track of schools that are letting the system down” morphed over the years into a tool to harvest information and rank schools, which is a dangerous development. Testing is a valuable instrument that helps to raise standards when utilised properly, but

the current NAPLAN tests have caused numerous problems that ultimately fail the students who want to learn. Since schools are judged on their NAPLAN results they are teaching to the NAPLAN test at the expense of genuine educational goals, again to the detriment of students and the country as a whole.

However, given all of its drawbacks I am still a supporter of testing, including the NAPLAN test when properly used in its original manner. Many years ago there was the School Certificate that tested students in English, Mathematics and Science. Then as a cost cutting measure Science tests were deleted with just tests in English and Mathematics.

After a seven-year hiatus, Science was again tested in the School Certificate, with the first Science test under the new regime to the last School Certificate test.

The results were significantly poorer than the previous students’ results; Science teaching standards have not recovered from the drop during those seven years.

Testing, including the NAPLAN, is an important part of the educational mix, and like many other aspects it is far from perfect. More research has to be done to ensure that all testing work is beneficial to the overall goals of education.

Over the next few weeks we will look at research in how the brain works and how children learn.

look

Now is the perfect time to update your kids’ wardrobe The weather is getting cooler, and it’s time for a refresh of what our children are wearing as winter looms...

pair can go with graphic stripes and blue dresses.

Vests A soft knit or a puffer version in a vest layered over long sleeves are perfect for the transitional season for kids.

You will have a better chance at a vest staying clean also instead of a jumper or jacket and this is because the arms are left free to play while their core stays warm.

“Where are your shoes?!” I say 100 times to my son as we are frantically trying to get out the door (apparently he kindly hid them away in his toy box for me).

Cooler weather calls for warmer clothes with a new season update for our closet, not only for us but the kids as well.

Here are my top essential picks for a practical and cosy kids wardrobe!

Alyce Madden For the latest trends follow @westfieldpenrith on Instagram

your

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

your

Beanies and woollen hats This one is a personal favourite of mine because of the instant cuteness factor a little Pom Pom adds.

Early mornings and late afternoons once the sun is down can be pretty chilly, so keep one on hand to prevent sensitive ears getting seasonal earaches. I love the magical unicorn beanie from Cotton On Kids.

Goodbye sandals Yes they might be easier to get onto tiny feet fast but the extra time taken to lace up enclosed shoes for your little one adds all the difference in autumn/winter.

Invest in warmer winter socks to keep the chill out and if the old wives’ tale is true then you might be preventing a cold or two by keeping their feet warm.

Gumboots Recently I walked past a little girl who was having a great time jumping into puddles and splashing water everywhere, fortunately for her though she had on great gumboots and her feet were kept nice and dry while mine on the other hand... not so much! Find in store now at Best n Less the toddler rain boots in a cool stormy print, complete with cool striking lightning bolts and graphic clouds. An awesome buy!

Colourful tights Dresses and skirts can still be worn so don’t pack away the pretty outfits just yet, update with coordinating tights to be worn underneath! Burgundy and pink tights look great paired with her floral frilly numbers and a deep forest green

health

Stefan Scheuermair

Physiotherapist OnePointHealth • 4732 5188

You may have heard about osteoarthritis, but do you know the key information? Here’s three things you need to know...

Osteoarthritis is not degeneration The first and most important thing is to understand that osteoarthritis is not purely degeneration in a joint.

Degeneration occurs in joints and are a natural part of life, just like wrinkles, they occur with aging.

Degeneration doesn’t always lead to pain. Osteoarthritis is pain that occurs from the inflammation and irritation of a degenerative joint.

It is important to understand this difference as if we can remove the inflammation or reason for irritation we may be able to resolve the osteoarthritis.

Many things can treat osteoarthritis.

Managing osteoarthritis early is key to ensuring the best outcome.

As it is degenerative, the later it is left, the less responsive it is to treatment.

Treatments that help with osteoarthritis include: a. Medication for pain and inflammation. b. Hydrotherapy: warm water-based exercises. c. Physiotherapy: including massage, stretching of the joint, strength exercises. d. Weight loss: just as muscle strength can offload a joint, reducing weight going through the joint also reduces pain from osteoarthritis e. Heat or cold may help depending on which you prefer.

If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and are looking for information or developing a plan to better take care of it, please come in for a consultation to find out what options are best suitable for you.

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Many things can flare up your osteoarthritis Muscle weakness is the most common culprit of osteoarthritis aggravation.

Our muscles are like suspension in cars where the body can absorb and produce force.

Too often we look at how our increase in pain has occurred and look instantly

at the rate of degeneration in the joint which takes decades rather than a loss of strength. Often this is a combination of both where degeneration + weakness = pain. Then this pain = doing less movement = more weakness = more degeneration = more pain.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

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LE

travel

Beyond the resorts: Take a different look at Fiji

JI I F A VU K

Roderick Eime walks the verandas and lush pathways of a little town soaked in history...

Roderick Eime Content thanks to WTF Media

Walking down the main street of Levuka wasn’t always such a blissfully quiet and peaceful affair. The first capital of Fiji was born into anarchy and the sort of wild life only created by stir-crazy seamen and hustlers.

The tranquil and verdant lanes of Levuka hide a turbulent past. The flame trees lining the canal and the immaculate cream woodwork of the heritage buildings suggest, but do not fully reveal, the turbulent birth of Fiji as a nation.

Almost 200 years ago, Levuka became the first permanent European settlement, a status that made it the de facto choice as capital when Tui Cakobau and the chiefs ceded the islands to Queen Victoria on October 10, 1874. The monument to this occasion is located at Nasova village, the site of the signing, about a kilometre south of the wharf.

For most of the 19th Century, the streets of Levuka were awash with all the human flotsam of the Pacific; deserters, shipwrecked whalers, escaped convicts, prostitutes and plain rogues. Missionaries, planters, merchants and fishermen tried to instil a sense of civilisation, but clearly their task was a Herculean one. Some scallywag remarked that an approaching

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“Mum used to stand out there on the balcony and call us in for dinner,” Allan Roxburgh told me, recalling happy times as a child growing up in the little town, “we’d play all day on the field here if she let us”.

Roxburgh, now sadly departed, spent his entire life in Fiji. Born to European parents, his Scottish father was a copra trader, and young Allan would jig school to go with him on trading journeys throughout the islands in the ‘40s and ‘50s when Levuka remained the copra capital of Fiji.

“Levuka’s only a little town, but there was always something going on.”

Testament to the town’s colourful past is laid out on the walls of the Ovalau Club, the South Pacific’s oldest private members club and still serving today.

Flags, photographs, autographs and caricatures from bygone days adorn the bar.

Visiting warships, aircraft and dignitaries have all left their kindest regards in some personalised form.

One of the most noteworthy characters to have paid his respects was Felix Graf von Luckner. This famous German sea captain from the Great War was remarkable for several reasons. Not only did he conduct a fearsome commerce raiding campaign throughout the South Pacific and Atlantic, he did so with just one accidental casualty. He arrived in Levuka after his legendary open boat sailing from Tahiti was wrecked on a reef. He was captured on nearby Wakaya Island.

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ship could find passage through the reef by following the floating gin bottles.

However, despite the lawlessness, Fiji’s first bank, post office, school, private members club, hospital, town hall, and municipal government sprang from this unlikely outpost.

Fiji’s pre-eminent newspaper, the Fiji Times, was first printed in Levuka in 1869.

Unsurprisingly, the first hotel was also built there and, perhaps more surprisingly, the Royal Hotel still serves a chilled Fiji Bitter today amid quaint decor and wicker chairs. The oldest Masonic lodge in the South Pacific still stands in Levuka, but only just. It was gutted by fire in 2000 by nearby Lovoni villagers determined to exorcise its supposed evil spirits.

Levuka occupies almost all of the rare, flat section of land in the shadow of towering, jungle-shrouded cliffs, cradling the settlement and its ornate buildings in a protective nook.

This geographic shelter cut short Levuka’s life as a capital, but preserved its architectural integrity. By 1882, Governor Sir Arthur Gordon and the workings of government were fully transplanted to Suva.

A walking tour, either self-guided or escorted, is the first thing you should organise when you arrive in Levuka, but a local interpretation will give you an insight into the life of real Fijians, both indigenous and ‘imported’. Be sure to say ‘bula’ wherever you go, it’s the polite thing to do.

The Mother’s Day warning all cat owners should listen to

pets

Flowers are an integral part of Mother’s Day celebrations, but hidden dangers are lurking...

Nicole McMillan Practice owner of Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic and the Western Sydney Cat Hospital

your Rev John Lavender

With Mother’s Day coming up there will likely be lots of flowers in our homes.

Lilies are commonly used in floral arrangements and cats often have access to them, however, most cat owners and florists are unaware that lilies are toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure.

Indoor cats and especially kittens are drawn to flowers as they are a novel feature in a familiar environment.

In investigating the flowers, cats will often play with and chew parts of the plant.

This often goes unnoticed by owners and can even occur when the cat is home alone.

The toxic chemical in lilies that causes injuries to the kidneys is unknown but all components of the plant are toxic – this includes the petals, stamen, leaves and pollen.

As little as two leaves or part of a single flower have been reported to cause death.

Even a kitten mouthing a plant should be considered a potentially fatal ingestion.

There are many plants in the lily family (Liliaceae) including Asian, Day, Easter, Glory, Japanese Show, Peace, Red,

Rubrum, Stargazer, Tiger and Wood lilies and all of these plants are highly toxic.

If you have cats you should never have lilies in your house or garden.

Signs of lily toxicity usually start within several hours of ingestion and may include depression, loss of appetite and vomiting.

Within one to three days, the toxin will cause sudden kidney failure and this will cause pain, drooling, vomiting and a marked reduction in the amount of urine produced.

At this stage, aggressive treatment is needed and many cats will die despite treatment.

If you suspect your cat may have ingested lilies it is vital that you seek immediate veterinary attention as early detection and treatment is vital.

The prognosis for a full recovery is excellent if treatment is started before kidney failure develops.

As with most things prevention is better than cure.

See you next week.

religion

Coreen Avenue

Veterinary Clinic

Quality Loving Care

www.gpa.church

What do you want? And how are you going to get it? Who do you need to listen to?

There’s a TV ad where a ballet teacher is helping her class learn their dance steps.

One of the students is a larger man having trouble learning to spin. As the teacher helps him, the scene changes and we see how the man is actually a discus thrower and the teacher has been helping his throwing style. The ad finishes saying how a bank can help you get what you want.

What do you want? More time? Some peace and quiet? Maybe it’s extra cash or greater certainty or a smoother life?

Consider these remarkable words from a well-known part of the Bible, the Old Testament’s 23rd Psalm.

The writer begins, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want”.

In others words, because “The Lord”, the God who made all things is his shepherd, that is, his guide and protector, he will not lack anything. He has everything he needs.

As the Psalm continues we see why he can say these extraordinary things; “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside the quiet waters, he

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

your

Western Sydney

Cat Hospital restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness... Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever”.

These words are the experience of those who follow the Lord; Jesus, the good shepherd.

He leads; restores; guides; takes away fear; protects; comforts and even gives us a dwelling place with Him for ever.

What more could you want!

Have a great weekend and I’ll see you in next week’s paper or at church on Sunday.

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VOLKSWAGEN

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olkswagen Commercial Vehicles in Australia has confirmed the impending arrival of its most powerful Amarok yet, with a new EU6 190kW/200kW on overboost tune of its already punchy V6 engine heading to Australia in the third quarter of 2018.

The current EU5 V6 engine offered in the Amarok produces a hefty 180kW on overboost, and 550Nm of torque.

Already the performance class leader with the current Amarok V6 range, the new, higher output Amarok will be first available in Ultimate specification at a slight premium over the current Ultimate grade, with Volkswagen Australia looking to expand this new high-performance V6 offering at a later stage.

There will be further additions to the Amarok range later in the year.

Australia remains the biggest export market in the world for the go-anywhere Volkswagen ute, and Volkswagen Group Australia Director of Commercial Vehicles Carlos Santos relishes the opportunity to offer Australian customers an even more powerful Amarok.

“As we’ve promised before, we have no intention of giving up the mantle of the most powerful ute in its class and are looking to offer the upgraded 200kW Amarok V6 later in the year,” he said.

Pricing and specification for the Amarok V6 will be available later this year.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

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the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

Sport

HOCKEY

New fields will help sport grow p.70

St Clair’s Chris Bunton returned from Adelaide with a swag of medals. Photo: Melinda Jane

Bunton’s medal haul NATHAN TAYLOR

ocal artistic gymnast Chris Bunton broke down in tears after taking home a huge haul of gold medals at last month’s Special Olympics Australia (SOA) National Games in Adelaide.

The 25-year-old, who was born with Down Syndrome, picked up six gold medals and one silver medal across two days of competition.

Competing in the Level 3 division, Bunton finished atop of the podium in Floor Exercise, Horizontal Bar, Parallel Bars, Pommel Horse, Rings and All

L

“I had a mixed bag of performances, I didn’t look so good,” Bunton admitted.

“After that first day’s competition my coach gave me some really good feedback. Then on the second and final day of competition, I rolled up my sleeves and I did my best.”

While winning is always a bonus, Bunton gets much more out of his gymnastics career than just medals.

“Winning medals gives me a feeling of achievement but it’s not always about winning gold, it’s about doing the best you can do,” he said.

“I also made plenty of new friends down in Adelaide, which was fun. I chat-

Round. He narrowly finished second in just the one apparatus, Vault.

Speaking with the Weekender, the St Clair resident said he was overcome with emotion at how well he did.

“When I finished the presentation I cried… I was happy. I was relieved that all my hard work paid off,” Bunton said.

“I felt fantastic and ecstatic. I was just doing what my coach told me to do, I treated it like a normal training day – just do what you can, I told myself.”

After months of training leading up to the SOA National Games, Bunton’s first day of competition didn’t quite go to plan.

ted with them on the bus, danced with them at the disco, went swimming and watched movies with them.”

Bunton’s mum, Halina, said she was very proud of her son for all that he has achieved.

“I was very happy for him that his hard work paid off,” she said.

“I was surprised he was crying after it all, he kept on saying ‘Mum, I’m so happy’.”

Following his excellent showing in the South Australian capital, Bunton is now firmly focused on his next big endeavour – July’s Down Syndrome World Championships in Germany.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

RUGBY UNION

Emus executed as rugby • Penrith gone from Shute Shield effective immediately • Officials shocked by NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith Emus boss Jim Hook has labelled Sydney Rugby Union’s decision to dump the embattled club as “absolutely crazy”, and he strongly disagrees that they were an embarrassment to the competition.

After 23 years in the Shute Shield and 53 years as a club, the Emus were sensationally axed from all grades on Monday morning effective immediately.

In a huge blow for the club and rugby in Sydney west, Sydney Rugby Union officials phoned President Hook on Monday morning to deliver the heartbreaking news.

Games already played against Penrith – and those scheduled for the rest of the season – will be officially recorded as 28-0 bonus point victories to their opposition.

Speaking with the Weekender, a clearly dejected Hook said the move to erase his beloved club was mind boggling.

“I’d been hearing it would happen through the media all weekend and then the President of Sydney Rugby finally rang me at 9am Monday to inform me of the decision,” he said.

“The President told me many times it had nothing to do with our performances this year, it was about getting all the infrastructure and processes in place.”

Sydney Rugby Union President, David Begg, said Penrith’s failure to meet a number of key criteria set down during the pre-season was behind Monday’s decision.

“The Sydney Rugby Union Board has taken comprehensive steps to provide every available opportunity for Penrith Rugby Union Club to remain in the Sydney Premiership competition,” he said.

“However, the club’s inability to meet the standards set for all clubs to compete at the Premiership level has resulted in them being withdrawn from the competition.”

Begg said long standing issues around governance, safety, finances and the wellbeing of players played a part in the

P

Devastated: Penrith Emus President Jim Hook

decision.

“We are working closely with New South Wales Rugby Union to support the individual players impacted by this, to ensure they have other avenues available to them to remain in rugby,” he said.

Hook said while Penrith’s on-field performances haven’t been up to standard so far this season, he is satisfied the club did everything that was required of them off-field.

“We battled to put seven teams on the field each week while other clubs haven’t been able to do even that,” he said.

“It makes you wonder what’s going on here sometimes. I just don’t understand it. I believe it’s elitist and agenda driven – it has been from day one. We’ve had some people do some very unprofessional things to us.

“We were told we were a week by week proposition – I don’t know how anyone can function like that.”

Hook also wasn’t confident Sydney Rugby officials would find his players new homes at one of the 11 remaining clubs.

“No, I don’t think they’ll help the players. The players are devastated and so are the coaches – everyone is devastated,” he said.

“This has been the biggest battle I’ve had in my career in rugby. It’s been very tough.

“Yes we’ve been touched up a couple of times but we’re not the only club that’s been touched up. I don’t believe we are an embarrassment to the competition.”

Former Emus player and coach, Sateki Tuipulotu, believes the club was let down due to the lack of support from the game’s governing bodies.

“All they needed was support and help from Rugby Australia and NSW Rugby to survive,” he told the Weekender.

“Penrith’s axing was coming for 15 years. If NSW Rugby and Rugby Australia weren’t helping the west back then, what makes you think they’ll look after the west now?”

Knowing first hand what it’s like to put the required number of teams together each week, Tuipulotu believed player welfare was also a major factor in Sydney

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“mind boggling” decision • Players left without clubs Rugby’s decision.

“You have to look at player welfare and the wellbeing of each player,” he said.

“To have players playing three or four games per week and getting smashed on top of that, is not good at all.”

Tuipulotu coached the club for three seasons between 2013 and 2015. Interestingly, he was the last coach to guide the Emus to a Shute Shield win.

Tuipulotu revealed he was approached by the club earlier this year to return for another coaching stint.

“The club asked me if I wanted to come back and I did say yes, but they ended up going with Peter Niumata and Chip Carroll,” he said.

“At the end of the day, my time at Penrith was a great time and a lot of the players I coached back then went on to bigger and better things.”

No one quite knows what the future of rugby looks like in western Sydney but while Penrith’s senior club is officially dead and buried, the Emus name and colours are set to live on through the club’s junior affiliate.

“The juniors are strongly supported by us but they are separate to the senior

Story continued from » p. 72 “All clubs have indicated they are dressing up, so this year’s March Past will have a real carnival atmosphere,” Gillett said.

Following the famous March Past, 3800 registered players from more than 20 clubs will take to the courts to get the 2018 local netball season underway.

Gillett said participation numbers from previous years have remained the same despite a recent move to online registrations.

“This is a good amount for us because we expected a drop in numbers after Netball NSW introduced total online registrations for the upcoming season,” she said.

All the action gets underway at 8.30am this Saturday, May 5 at Jamison Park Netball Complex.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

abandons the west

Local netball season starts on Saturday

NRL

The Penrith Emus will no longer play in the Shute Shield club,” Hook said.

“I’ve been told by the District Juniors that they will be in Penrith jumpers and

will be called the Penrith Emus.”

Tough call or fair enough? Email us at news@westernweekender.com.au.

Don’t forget the Weekender has all your Penrith Panthers news covered with our Extra Time liftout every week.

From match previews to feature stories, the latest ladder and an exclusive weekly column from Jamie Soward, it’s the perfect place to get your Panthers fix.

Find Extra Time in the centre of today’s paper.

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Friday, May 4, 2018 « the western weekender

SPEEDCARS

HOCKEY

Reid Mackay fights for life after horrific speedway crash

New field will help hockey grow in western Sydney NATHAN TAYLOR

he Nepean Hockey Association is grinning from ear to ear after securing vital funding for a new water-based pitch at its Kingswood-based facility.

Following the decommissioning of the facility’s sand field late last year, the Nepean Hockey Association has been working closely with Hockey NSW, the NSW Government and Western Sydney University to secure funding to have the field upgraded to a water-based field.

After two years of planning, Nepean Hockey recently received the good news that their proposal for funding had been successful.

“Having a new water-based field to add to our recently refurbished hybrid field will give the association two wonderful fields, to continue to build the sport in western Sydney,” Nepean Hockey Association President, Kieran Knowles said.

Work on the new field is expected to get underway in the next few weeks.

One advantage of water-based pitches is shorter fibres and wet turf reduce friction as well as increase the speed at which the game can be played.

Elite level competitions, such as the Olympic Games and Hockey World Cup, require a water-based playing surface.

T

Reid Mackay after winning the Australian Grand Prix last month.

Photo: Lone Wolf Photography NATHAN TAYLOR

ust weeks after claiming his first major win of his blossoming speedway career, 21-year-old Reid Mackay is fighting for life at Westmead Hospital following a horror crash last weekend.

The Penrith local was travelling over 100km/h in the ninth heat of the Sydney City 50 Lap Speedcar Classic at Valvoline Raceway when he clipped the tyre of the car in front.

J

Devastating footage shows Mackay’s car flip multiple times and crash on the other side of the safety barrier.

Mackay was quickly pulled out of the wreck and was immediately taken to hospital with life threatening head and spinal injuries.

Just last month, the youngster was on top of the world after he took out the 67th running of the prestigious Australian Grand Prix (AGP) at Gunnedah Speedway.

Mackay’s family were hopeful he would be taken out of an induced coma soon.

Nepean Hockey Association President Kieran Knowles On top of the new pitch, Nepean Hockey has also secured a grant for a new scoreboard, which will be installed before the end of June.

Around the grounds

24 Stubbies

BASKETBALL: Things continue to go from bad to worse for Penrith’s Men’s and Women’s teams after they endured another awful weekend during Round 7 of the Waratah Championship League (WCL) competition. For the fourth straight week Penrith’s men were defeated, this time at the hands of the Newcastle Hunters 96-73. Captain Ben Kearins led his team with 25 points.

Meanwhile, Penrith’s Women’s team were totally outclassed, thrashed by Newcastle 81-22. Ashleigh Kaesler was best for the Panthers scoring nine points. Both sides will enjoy a bye this weekend.

VB Longneck

AFL: The GWS Giants are back to their winning ways, defeating Brisbane in Round 6 of the AFL. Playing in front of their home fans for the very first time this season, the Giants hammered the Lions 77-43 at Spotless Stadium. GWS will look for back to back victories when they take on Geelong tonight in Melbourne.

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AFL: The Penrith Rams remain undefeated to start the season, smashing Southern Power 119-41 in Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Platinum Division. Phil Aumann top scored for the Rams with eight goals. The Rams will look for four straight wins when they face Macquarie University this Saturday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Auburn-Penrith Giants have notched up their second win of the year, defeating Southern Power 45-16 in

Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Premier Division. The Giants will look for three straight victories when they also face Macquarie University.

NETBALL: Giants Netball have finally got revenge for last year’s Grand Final loss, defeating the Sunshine Coast Lightning 54-51 in the opening round of the Super Netball competition.

The Giants will look for back to back wins when they take on the Adelaide Thunderbirds this Saturday afternoon.

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers are through to the Grand Final of the SG Ball competition.

The Panthers defeated the Cronulla Sharks in a thriller last weekend 17-16, and will now face the Canterbury Bulldogs this Saturday afternoon at Leichhardt Oval. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Harold Matthews team fell just short of reaching the decider, losing to Manly 22-10 last weekend.

RUGBY UNION: Before being booted out of the Shute Shield competition this week, the Penrith Emus were thrashed at the hands of Warringah 87-5 during Round 4 of the Shute Shield competition. Following Monday’s decision to axe the team, the Emus will play no further part in this year’s competition.

PADDLING: Jessica Fox’s speciallymade slalom canoe was stolen last week from Penrith Whitewater Stadium. If you’ve seen it, email sara. latham@canoe.org.au.

the western weekender » Friday, May 4, 2018

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the western weekender // www.westernweekender.com.au

Friday, May 4, 2018

Sea of colour for new season NATHAN TAYLOR

O

ne of the biggest events on the local sporting calendar will take place this weekend at Jamison Park Netball Complex.

To celebrate the start of the 2018 Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) season, thousands of players from clubs right across the district will be on hand for the traditional March Past event this Saturday morning.

A PDNA tradition for more than four decades, last year’s March Past was won by Penrith RSL Netball Club.

PDNA President Joy Gillett said everything is locked in place for a massive weekend ahead.

“Everyone is looking forward to another big season in 2018 with three new netball courts and improved lighting,” she said.

“It’s a bit of a later start this year due to the recent Commonwealth Games and school holidays, so everyone is keen and excited about the new year of competition.”

This year’s March Past event will be judged

by Federal Member for Lindsay Emma Husar as well a number of players from the Panthers Premier League netball team.

Story continues on » p. 69

Jamison Park Netball Complex will be a sea of colour this weekend

WW32949