Western Weekender February 7 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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www.westernweekender.com.au

Friday, February 7, 2020 • FREE

WIN TICKETS! See some of country music’s rising stars SEE PAGE 10

CLASSIC KELLY Aussie music legend to play the Coliseum SEE PAGE 33

MAY HE PLAY?

Penrith Panthers utility Tyrone May is sweating on NRL approval to resume his rugby league career, after he was sentenced last Friday over a sex tape scandal. Alena Higgins reports on page 6

PUBLIC PRIORITY Increase in public school enrolments SEE PAGE 14

SEEING DOUBLE Fox on track for huge Olympic year SEE PAGE 57

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Downsize without the downside

Reserve your seat today! 2

Retirement Downsizing Made Simple seminar SATURDAY 29 FEBRUARY 11AM-2PM • Expert panel • Q & A session • Admission free

First Fleet Village – Penrith 64B Glebe Pl, Penrith

Call us on 4748 9320 or via our website on ﬁrstﬂeetvillage.com.au to RSVP by 24 February

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• Financial considerations • The legal side of downsizing • Complimentary lunch

Downsizing expert Rachel Lane

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Find out in one day the expert tips at RSL LifeCare’s new village in Penrith, First Fleet Village. Our free Retirement Downsizing Made Simple seminar is your chance to hear independent inside knowledge from leading author and ﬁnancial advisor Rachel Lane. Come along and learn the secrets to making the best choices for a happy retirement. With an expert panel and complimentary lunch in this boutique village, you’re sure to have a rich and rewarding day. Places are limited so RSVP now for this special free event.

Penrith won’t join other Councils in new energy initiative NICOLA BARTON

enrith City Council will not partake in a new initiative that seeks to slash emissions, despite support from nine other western Sydney councils. Launched by the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC), the Western Sydney Energy Program (WSEP) aims to reduce western Sydney’s emissions by 200,000 tonnes of CO2e reductions each year. This equates to taking 46,000 cars off the road annually. Councils including Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Cumberland, Fairfield, Hawkesbury, Lithgow, Liverpool, Parramatta and The Hills Shire have jumped on board the initiative in a bid to combat climate issues. Instead of joining them, Penrith Council has decided to focus on its own, existing initiatives. A spokesperson from Penrith Council said its own energy efficiency targets are reducing emissions in meaningful and practical ways. “Council is part of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, the Cities Power Partnership, and is implementing the Cooling the City Strategy,” the spokesperson said.

WSROC President Barry Calvert. “Our Sustainability team works closely with staff from across the organisation to consider and integrate heat management and mitigation, energy efficiency and emission reduction into Council’s projects.” Since 2015 Council has established three sustainability targets to continue to encourage energy and water efficiency within the organisation. These include a 10 per cent target of Council’s electricity

to be supplied from low carbon sources by 2030, a 40 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and to maximise opportunities for sustainable water sources. The spokesperson also paid credit to Council’s Sustainability Revolving Fund which enables the savings made as a result of sustainability initiatives to be diverted into a designated fund to provide financial support for future sustainability projects. As the WSEP begins to roll out, it will focus on four key areas including renewable energy, transport infrastructure, supporting communities, and implementing best practice in energy planning and design for buildings and precincts. WSROC President Barry Calvert said with western Sydney facing rapid population growth and hot climate, action is needed to ensure power is affordable and reliable in the future. “The Western Sydney Energy Program will assist us to align and maximise our efforts,” he said. “Ensuring western Sydney is prepared to transition to an energy efficient, low carbon future is critical for community wellbeing.” Penrith Council is not a member of WSROC but, despite not being a member either, The Hills Shire Council has still joined the program.

Shock twist in St Marys car crash A man faced court on Wednesday after he was charged for deliberately crashing his vehicle, in an attempt to kill both himself and his passenger. Just before 11pm on Thursday, January 30 a 48-year- old man was driving a blue Mazda Astina north on Mamre Road, with a 23-year-old woman in the front seat. It is alleged that when the man was at the intersection of John Street, he deliberately steered the car into a power pole. Police believe that the man undid both his seatbelt and his passenger’s seatbelt before impacting the pole. The female, who sustained serious injuries to her left arm, was treated by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being conveyed to Westmead Hospital. Officers from Nepean Police Area Command also attended and a crime scene was established. Inquiries by the Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit were undertaken. On Tuesday, February 4, the 48- yearold man was arrested at a home on John Street, St Marys before being conveyed to Penrith Police Station. He was charged with ‘attempt murder by other means’, and ‘cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent (DV)’. The man was refused bail to appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, February 5. Police confirmed the man and woman are known to each other. – Nicola Barton

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

Council brushes WSROC

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

the western weekender PO BOX 7105 South Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255 www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith westernweekender Issue 1422

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

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Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Grants saga still has a stench Sports rorts saga still stinks So Bridget McKenzie has gone from the front bench, but has the Morrison Government actually learned anything? Most likely not, because conveniently the report that resulted in Senator McKenzie’s reluctant resignation said there was no evidence of ‘pork barrelling’ when it came to sports grants handed out prior to the last election. That means that Senator McKenzie is the lone scalp here – and we’re all expected to accept that apart from an undisclosed conflict of interest, the rest of the process was all above board. This is despite the Prime Minister refusing to release the Phil Gaetjens report into the saga – just trust us, says Scott Morrison. The PM again displayed questionable leadership credentials when he addressed this issue on Sunday afternoon in the wake of Senator McKenzie’s resignation. He relied heavily on notes, was out of breath and appeared rattled, if not bewildered, when journalists questioned just how the grant process was not politically compromised. Something just doesn’t seem right about this. Whatever the Gaetjens report may say, there’s too many question marks for this to simply go away. And with the public’s trust in Scott Morrison wavering, not releasing the report relied upon to say “all is good here” when there’s plenty of suggestions that it’s not, will only further damage his currently battered image. Meantime, Mr Morrison spent plenty of time on Sunday praising Senator McKenzie for her “outstanding work”. You would have thought she was being

Index

“It is a severe stain on this government and it’ll be very hard to remove”

awarded an OAM, not falling on her sword in the midst of a scandal. Nationals Leader Michael McCormack took a similar approach – his six line statement on his Senator’s resignation was full of praise, and failed to mention any unhappiness over her breach of standards. Just like the bushfire crisis, the Coalition seems unable to grasp the public’s feelings towards their responses and handling of difficult situations. It is a severe stain on this government and will be very hard to remove, even if an election is still two- and- a- half years away. Calls for zero limit don’t make sense The loss of lives at the hands of drunk drivers is tragic and heartbreaking, but calls for Australia’s alcohol limit of 0.05 to be reviewed miss the mark entirely. In the wake of last Saturday’s tragedy at

News.............................................1-30 Business..................................31-32

Oatlands, where four children were killed by a driver allegedly three times over the limit, some have called for a zero blood alcohol limit to be in place for all drivers. Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’ National Trauma Committee chair Dr John Crozier is among those who think it should be discussed, as is the Pedestrian Council. But there is very little to suggest this would make any difference when it comes to the loss of lives on our roads. After all, in the Oatlands case, the alleged offender didn’t go anywhere near adhering to the 0.05 limit. Do we really think he would have stayed out of the car if the limit was zero? You can’t put brains in statues, and as much as we can deliver harsher punishments, more police on the roads and as many warnings as possible, we’ll never avoid the idiots who think they are above it all. We must continue to educate and punish appropriately, but let’s not implement knee-jerk reaction policies that are unlikely to make any real difference. Remembering Romano The Penrith business community is all the poorer for the loss of Romano Garofali last week. Romano embodied the Penrith spirit, and was so passionate about this city. You’d rarely see him without a smile, and his infectious personality rubbed off on so many of his friends and colleagues. The owner of Nepean Pools, Romano is a former St Dominic’s College student, and was a strong advocate for the west. Our condolences go out to his wife Maria and his three sons, along with his many friends and extended family.

Entertainment .................33-46 Weekender Living.........47-53

Business Directory......54-56 Sport ........................................57-64

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Planning Panel rejects proposal for $77.5 million seniors village in Penrith CBD ALENA HIGGINS

An artist’s impression of the proposed new development, showing Nepean Village on the left and Penrith Bowling Club on the right. can be accommodated on the site,” it stated in its Notice of Determination. A number of other areas were also deemed unsatisfactory, including car parking access, cross ventilation, visual and acoustic privacy, neighbourhood amenity and streetscape, solar access, storage, balcony sizes, landscaping, future tree management and water sensitive urban design. Greengate, which owns a number of seniors villages in Sydney and Brisbane,

said the proposal aimed to meet the growing needs of an aging population and would fulfil an “important social purpose”. “Future residents of the site will have the benefit of excellent accessibility to public transport services and will be within walking distance to the Penrith CBD and nearby Nepean Village Shopping Centre,” documents attached to the DA show. The subject site lies between Nepean Village Shopping Centre and Penrith Bowl-

ing and Recreation Club and currently contains an unsealed car park and vacant building previously used as a child care centre. The Weekender reached out to Greengate for comment but it declined to advise if it intends to appeal the decision in the NSW Land and Environment Court or lodge an amended DA. The SWCPP, not Council, is the determining authority as the proposal has a capital investment value greater than $30 million.

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large multi- storey seniors village proposed for Penrith’s city centre has been knocked back. The development application (DA), which included three, six-storey buildings with frontages to Woodriff, Derby and Reserve streets, was recently refused by the Sydney Western City Planning Panel (SWCPP) on a host of grounds. Lodged by Greengate Development in December 2018, the $77.5 million project sought approval for construction of a 120- bed residential aged care facility in one high-rise, plus 74 independent living units split between two buildings. A hairdresser, gym, two cafes, communal rooms, landscaped areas and 97 basement car spaces, accessed via a two-way driveway ramp off Reserve Street, were also features of the proposed development. But the SWCPP recommended the application be refused, citing a string of deficiencies. “The site is considered to be unsuitable for the scale of development proposed, namely due to the application not being able to demonstrate that the essential infrastructure for waste and storm water

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

Red light for housing plan

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

May narrowly avoids jail Rugby league player’s actions labelled “morally reprehensible” by magistrate May’s barrister, Richard Pontello SC, said the sportsman had experienced widespread condemnation and humiliation and now suffers from depression “to the point of suicidal ideation”. Magistrate Denes questioned May’s level or contrition, suggesting he was more remorseful for the position he found himself in than the impact he may have had on the complainants. However, Mr Pontello argued firmly against this, tendering an apology text message May sent to one of the complainants after the videos surfaced. He also pointed to May’s recent involvement in creating and implementing the Frame of Mind program, aimed at educating other people “to not get involved in this particular behaviour”. Magistrate Denes was also critical of May’s late guilty pleas, which came on the first day of his scheduled three- day hearing on November 22. On that day, the prosecution also dropped four separate charges relating to disseminating the sex tapes without consent. Magistrate Denes also weighed in on Penrith’s highly respected community program, Panthers on the Prowl, which May has previously been involved in, saying “what an inappropriate name”, and strongly suggesting it should be changed.

ALENA HIGGINS

enrith Panthers player Tyrone May has received a three- year good behaviour bond and 300 hours of community service work for his part in the sex tape scandal that engulfed the club last year and left his promising career hanging by a thread. The 23 - year - old was sentenced at Parramatta Local Court for four counts of ‘intentionally recording an intimate image without consent’. He faced a maximum of three years’ jail on each count. A scathing Magistrate Robyn Denes labelled his conduct not only “morally reprehensible” but “criminal”, and directed the rest of the sporting fraternity to take heed. The utility was stood down during the 2019 pre-season after leaked footage taken in Coffs Harbour in February 2018, and a second video filmed at Kingswood in May 2018, surfaced, resulting in his arrest on May 5. The sex was consensual. The prosecution highlighted the humiliation the two complainants had endured, telling Magistrate Denes she needed to send a strong message to the community that women are more than merely “play things”.

Tyrone May training with the Penrith Panthers. Photo: Megan Dunn.

NRL to have final say on when May can play again

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he National Rugby League (NRL) will have the final say on when Panthers utility Tyrone May can return to the football field. NRL officials will meet with Penrith to deliver the verdict on May’s future and any further punishments following the finalisation of his court case last week. It is hoped May will be free to play from the start of the year given he sat out the entire 2019 season under the NRL’s no-fault stand down policy. However, the NRL could implement a further suspension or restrictions. The 23- year- old played 19 games for

Penrith before his career was dramatically halted when the sex tape scandal erupted in the weeks prior to the 2019 season, resulting in police charges. The club has stood by May and the one- time Samoan representative has remained training, albeit away from the main group for much of the last year. Teammate and friend Nathan Cleary last week expressed his desire for May to return to the fold this season. “Tyrone is one of my best mates and I’ll be there for him for whatever he’s going through,” he told NRL.com. “Hopefully he does get to play this year but whatever happens, happens. He’s accepted what he did and he’s ready to move forward from that.”

Revealed: The local streets and car parks you’re most likely to cop a parking fine ALENA HIGGINS

e’ve probably all tried to squeeze an extra few minutes out of a timed parking spot and felt relieved when we didn’t cop a fine. But with more councils installing in- ground sensors that direct parking inspectors to vehicles that have exceeded their time limit, technology rather than luck is playing a greater role in detection. With this in mind, the Weekender can now reveal the local streets where it pays to be extra vigilant. According to Penrith Council, enforcement rates are higher in High Street, Derby Street and Barber Avenue where vehicles tend to overstay the time restrictions. The Allen Place, Soper Place and Civic Centre car parks also made the list. “Rangers actively patrol Council car parks and on- street regulated parking to ensure vehicles comply with the sign posted time limits,” a spokesman said. “Sensors, where installed, report timed occupancy data and indicate when a vehicle has overstayed the sign posted time limit.” In NSW alone, there are 144 parking offences motorists can be pinged for at any given time.

Basic parking infringements, like exceeding time limits, will set you back about $114, while parking in your driveway while obstructing the footpath can result in a $268 fine. Steeper still, motorists caught parking within 20 metres of an intersection with traffic lights or 10 metres of an intersection without traffic lights, could cop a $344 penalty notice, while motorists found unlawfully parking in a disabled spot face a hefty $572 fine. Council said parking management is a “complex issue” as shoppers, workers and commuters vie for the mix of available parking spaces throughout the city. “Council constantly reviews parking management with the aim of making all available spaces across the city work more efficiently and effectively,” the spokesman said. Despite a request for figures, Council failed to disclose the annual revenue it derives from parking fines. “Net revenue from parking infringements is held in a reserve and used for new or improved car parking infrastructure, traffic facilities in the Penrith CBD and other initiatives that produce economic benefits to these centres,” it said. How can parking improve in Penrith? Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

PENALTY PARKING OFFENCES Fine $

Demerits

Park continuously for longer than permitted**

$114

Stand vehicle in disability persons parking space without authority

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Use more parking bays than necessary**

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Stop within 20m of intersection with traffic lights*

$344

Stop within 10m of intersection (no traffic lights)*

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

It pays to follow the rules

As At July 2019 *Increased fines/and or demerit points apply when committed in school zones **A lesser fine may apply if the penalty notice is issued by an enforcement officer from a NSW Government authority or participating local council or university

Just some of the parking offences NSW motorists can be fined for.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Fernhill faces the future Exclusive: Mulgoa Progress Association now supports sub-division of estate NICOLA BARTON

he State Government is calling on the community to have its say on the re- imagination of Fernhill Estate in Mulgoa, with options for potential future uses currently on exhibition. Mulgoa Progress Association (MPA) President Tim Hawkins sat down with the Weekender earlier this week, providing an exclusive look at the association’s draft submission, which has some contrasting ideas to that of the previous committee. Since the State Government purchased the $27 million Estate in 2018, question marks have been raised over its future upkeep and viability, but if one thing’s for certain, Mulgoa locals want it to be accessible to the public. Mr Hawkins believes activating Fernhill Estate will both ensure it is sustainable in the future as well as attracting vibrant tourism in the region. “The success and future of the Mulgoa Valley relies on the success and future of Fernhill Estate,” he told the Weekender. The MPA’s draft submission covers four key uses which include equine based businesses and community groups, events or weddings, hospitality businesses and tourism opportunities such as a gallery,

Mulgoa Progress Association President, Tim Hawkins. Photo: Megan Dunn. ghost tours or early settlement themed events. However, the committee have also included in their submission that they support the potential sub- division of outskirt lots, previously purchased by the

State Government, to be sold for housing as a way to inject more money back into the Estate. “Historically the MPA have strongly fought against any sub- divisions of Fernhill but 2020 MPA does believe smart

sub- divisions are a realistic option to help fund such a large venture,” the draft report states. Mr Hawkins said this does not mean “Glenmore Park- style housing estates”, but more large rural living blocks. The potential uses on exhibition, as suggested by the State Government, include boutique accommodation, function hire, restaurant, winery or equestrian businesses to name a few. Mr Hawkins said he has met with community figures including Penrith MP Stuart Ayres and Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies to discuss the MPA’s vision. The Weekender asked both Ms Davies and Mr Ayres for their stance on the idea of sub-division of surrounding lots, which has previously been shut down by the State Government. “To ensure existing uses, ongoing maintenance and the future potential of Fernhill are realised we need to be open to all ideas and options for what happens on Fernhill and how it will be funded,” Ms Davies said. “Its future is in our hands and we must deliver a practical, accessible and financially sustainable future for Fernhill,” Mr Ayres added. Feedback is open until April 3. Visit planning.nsw.gov.au/fernhillestate.

Great wheels of fire! Motorists on the M4 Motorway got a shock on Tuesday morning when a truck caught fire, forcing the driver to flee the cabin. Nobody was injured and emergency crews were able to extinguish the blaze. The incident happened in the westbound lanes of the M4 during the morning peak hour.

“[I] saw it smoking around 8.45 on the side of the M4, [the] driver was looking to see where [the] smoke was coming from,” one witness said on Facebook. There were traffic delays as a result of the incident, with other motorists watching the fire unfold. The vehicle, which was not carrying a load, was towed from the scene.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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resented by the Country Music Association of America, ‘Introducing Nashville’ returns this March, the beloved international artist touring series. In 2020, a four - artist bill will showcase some of North America’s most exciting up- andcoming artists on their Australian debuts. Cassadee Pope, Mitchell Tenpenny, Abby Anderson and Niko Moon will take in four intimate venues across Australia, including The Factory Theatre in Sydney. Established in Australia last year around the annual CMC Rocks QLD music festival, ‘Introducing Nashville’ aims to bring the worldclass songwriting of Nashville to music fans around the world, and has since delivered incredible performers to New Zealand, Germany, Netherlands and Japan.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

Another retailer with a store in Penrith has fallen into voluntary administration, this time Colette by Colette Hayman. Deloitte Restructuring Services has been appointed as administrators. The Colette network has 37 branches in NSW.

my Penrith

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

Tara Cameron

Taking inspiration from the renowned Nashville writer’s round, this special series sees intimate acoustic performances of these storied hits, along with a discussion of the inspiration and deeper meaning of their work. ‘Introducing Nashville’ will be at the Factory Theatre in Sydney on Wednesday, March 25. Book through the theatre direct. The Weekender has two double passes to ‘Introducing Nashville’ to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Nashville’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, February 12 and winners will be notified by email. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender.com.au.

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week! This week’s lucky winners are: 0018, 0401, 0244.

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FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Chilli Jam. FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Coffee Club Nepean River. FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Emu Hall. FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Nepean River and The Lewers Gallery. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? We love the amount of outdoor activity options we have here. We love taking our kids out on the boat on the river, or down the lake to feed the ducks, play at the park or a simple walk. WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The creative businesses and creative community here is extensive. We have so many talented people living in Penrith and the Blue Mountains. The support between us all is amazing, and I’m very proud I’m from Penrith.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

Penrith’s game changer East Side Quarter development reaches new milestone as sales remain strong NICOLA BARTON

PRD’s Darren Latty, Penrith MP Stuart Ayres and Peter Morson from Morson Group looking over the ESQ plans. achieved a sell-out success of Stage 1 of the development, and since September over 65 per cent of stage two has pre-sold, with construction soon to commence. Stage 1 builder Astina Group Co-Founder William Schrumpf commended the hard work of all those involved for delivering the project ahead of schedule.

“It was about a year ago we stood outside these doors at the groundbreaking ceremony and we were speaking about how proud as Penrith people we were to be a part of this special project,” Mr Schrumpf said. “To be here now celebrating the topping out of the project, it is a big milestone and

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ABE’s $500 million East Side Quarter (ESQ) development celebrated a major milestone last Friday at a traditional topping out ceremony. The topping out ceremony marks construction of the first stage reaching the highest point in the landmark development inside the Panthers Precinct. CABE CEO Andrew James, Penrith MP Stuart Ayres as well as representatives from Astina Group, Morson Group and the Panthers’ Board were on hand to mark the occasion. “It is a significant milestone for us and a great way to celebrate the delivery of the first stage of our vision,” Mr James said. “It took 10 years to get to this point and it will be delivered over the next 10 years.” 152 luxury apartments as part of Stage 1 will be home to 200 residents, who are set to move in around October this year. Once all stages are completed, East Side Quarter will boast an enormous 850 apartments. “I believe this is the largest private investment in Penrith’s history and it creates a lot of jobs for the area,” Mr James said. Colliers and PRDnationwide Real Estate

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We’re not all bad: Why can’t we have a little bit of trust? Loving husband to Maria. Adored father of Julius, Daniel and Adrian. Loving son of Zena and Giullo (dec). Loving brother to Mark. Loved by all his family and friends near and far. Always in our hearts Rest in Peace 57 years Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Romano’s Funeral Mass to be held on Tuesday 11th February, 2020 at St Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church, 326 High Street Penrith set to commence at 11am. Following Mass, cortege will proceed to Pinegrove Memorial Park Cemetery, Kington Street, Minchinbury where Romano will be laid to rest.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

GAROFALI, Romano

Remember when a little bit of trust existed? It wasn’t that long ago. Seems to be gone now – just about everywhere. Every walk of life. You, me, everyone is treated as a potential scammer. Don’t trust a soul. In a Post Office, a woman easily in her 80s was hot and bothered after walking from her home to pick up a letter. The card in her hand confirmed it was waiting for her to collect. She stood 10 minutes in the queue to get the counter. But when she got to the attendant, there was a problem – she had no photo ID. So, they sent her away. No letter. Time wasted. Suspected scammer? Not likely, just another victim of inflexible attitudes in a society that doesn’t trust anyone anymore.

“Please stop treating everyone like they are up to something” What do you reckon are the chances the little old lady was up to something? Doesn’t matter. The rules say assume everyone is out to break the rules. The power company rings to remind you that you’ve forgotten to pay the bill – but they won’t tell you why they are calling until you’ve told them your middle name, address, and date of birth. Why? Apparently, privacy reasons. You must trust them. They don’t trust you.

A different scene and a very different situation but the same problem. Charities in the bushfire zones treat everyone like they’re out for a rort. It’s part of the reason the money is taking forever to leave their bank accounts. This week, 7NEWS reported on an entire South Coast street – home after home destroyed by fire. They’ve been living with it for weeks but so far no-one can get access to a single dollar. The charities need proof of their losses. It’s hard to do over the phone – so, these poor people are treated like they’re playing the system. You could see the pain and frustration in their eyes. We need some of the trust back. Come down hard on the abusers but please stop treating everyone like they are up to something.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Parents put faith in public system NICOLA BARTON

ore parents than ever have enrolled their kids in the public school system this semester. The State Government is calling it a ‘once in a lifetime’ spike in enrolments, as 497,000 primary school students and 318,000 high school students are enrolled for the year across the state. It is the first spike in more than 30 years, due to a major increase in the school-aged population. But a growing faith in the public schooling system or the rising costs of living may also be contributing factors, say some local parents. Londonderry resident Sarah Thorp said her daughter, Penelope, has been thriving in the public system since switching from a Catholic school last year. “The open learning meant there were 47 children to a classroom with two teachers, in her school now she’s in a classroom of 18 with one teacher and two support teachers,” she said. “The facilities here are just fantastic despite the fact that the Catholic school was $2500 a year and this is only $60, so what are you paying for?” Ms Thorp said gone are the days of the

public schools stigma and said she is impressed by the opportunities on offer for her daughter. As public schooling enrolments soar, Education Minister Sarah Mitchell said the Government must ensure they have the infrastructure to support these numbers. “In 2020, we’ll see a once-in-a-generation spike in school enrolments, so it is more important than ever to ensure that as a government, we continue to invest in world-class learning facilities,” she said. “In 2020, we’re also going to see at least 839 new teachers and 49 new principals, so the work we’re doing is about giving them the best environment to teach in as well.” However, despite the 130,000 extra students expected to be in NSW public schools by 2036, other local families say they are sticking with the Catholic and private systems. St Marys resident Bec Rees said longer supervision hours, extracurricular opportunities and STEM focused lessons are what sold it for her. “They teach from the same curriculum, however the learning opportunities at my daughter’s school are quite larger and more varied than the public schools in our area,” she said.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

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Kingswood woman jailed after history repeats itself

A Kingswood woman who assaulted police and a hospital security guard while intoxicated has been jailed until at least March 2021, despite securing a spot in rehab. Natasha Renee Donnelly, 25, faced Penrith Local Court on Tuesday charged with ‘contravening AVO’, ‘resist/hinder police’, ‘assault’ and ‘breach of bond’. From the outset, her lawyer conceded history had repeated itself, with Donnelly breaching her good behaviour bonds with similar, violent offending. “The demon is the alcohol,” he submitted, “she’s tried, but she must get off the alcohol, she must not drink.” The court heard Donnelly was arrested on Christmas Eve for contravening an AVO, then lashed out at police and then again at a security guard when she went to hospital for treatment. Despite her lawyer offering up a sixmonth “quasi custody” placement at a residential rehabilitation facility, Magistrate Fiona Toose said she had “absolutely no confidence” Donnelly would comply. She pointed out the offender was already subject to three Community Correction Orders (CCOs), an alcohol abstinence order and was supposed to have gone to rehab before she committed the fresh offences. “Well I’m afraid that ship has sailed,” Magistrate Toose said of her latest chance for rehabilitation. She revoked the CCOs and sentenced her to a six-month fixed jail term instead. She was also jailed for 12 months with a nine-month non parole period for the fresh matters.

Man’s attempt to change sentence falls on deaf ears

A man who punched and headbutted a stranger over a cigarette has lost his appeal to have his jail sentence downgraded.

Max Spencer, 24, faced Penrith District Court on Tuesday after receiving 10 months with a six-month non parole period for two counts of ‘common assault’. The court heard Spencer was on parole for breaching an AVO when he asked the man for a cigarette in the games room of a Penrith hotel. But when the victim told him he couldn’t afford to give him one, he punched the man in the chest, claiming he thought the victim swore at him. Later that day, the two men crossed paths again, this time at Penrith train station. “The applicant became aggressive, saying ‘did you come back for more’,” Judge Mark Buscombe said as he read aloud the facts. Spencer then headbutted the man in the chest and a tussle ensued. On Tuesday, the offender, who represented himself, sought a conditional order that would allow him to get professional help in the community while at liberty. However, Judge Buscombe pointed out he’d had prior chances to address his drug issues and reflected on his criminal record which included similar offending stretching back to pre-adulthood. “Having regard to the two assaults on a stranger, the use of a headbutt while on parole, I see nothing wrong with the sentence imposed by the Magistrate,” he said. “Sorry, I saw no merit in your appeal,” he concluded. Spencer is eligible for release on parole on May 3.

Man charged with assaulting partner escapes jail sentence

A man who assaulted his partner with a metal desk fan has been handed a good behaviour bond. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, faced Penrith Local Court on Tuesday charged with ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’.

The court heard the woman had to be treated in hospital after suffering bruising and lacerations to her face when he struck her several time to the face and body. The facts disclose the pair had engaged in an argument prior to the offender leaving for work. Upon returning home, he demanded she pack her things and leave the house. It was when the woman was trying to stop him from packing her belongings that he grabbed the portable metal desk fan and hit her. Magistrate Brian van Zuylen noted the offender had no prior convictions for violence and was very well thought of as a worker. He also took into account the man’s remorse, which included self describing his behaviour as “inexcusable” and accepting his happiness had been ruined and he had lost the trust of his ex partner. Magistrate van Zuylen said he was initially contemplating a custodial sentence or community service work, but was “persuaded” to issue a Community Correction Order for 18 months, which is also subject to supervision.

Woman spends time in jail after breaching bail conditions

A St Marys woman who breached her bail no less than nine times has been told she squandered all her chances before she was remanded in custody. Charmaine Heather Durrington spent two nights in jail this week after her bail was revoked on Tuesday following a string of non-compliance. The latest contravention involved Durrington failing to present at the front door of her premises at 11.23pm when police conducted a curfew compliance check. Durrington contended she had been home but was sleeping in the garage and did not hear them knock. Her lawyer pointed out Durrington had a relatively limited criminal history that only began in 2018.

She said she had not re-offended since August 2019 and had been successfully undertaking rehabilitation. She also submitted a full time custodial sentence was not inevitable on sentencing. But the prosecution argued Durrington’s continued non-compliance posed an unacceptable risk, and Magistrate Fiona Toose agreed. “I’m afraid Ms Durrington, you can’t just decide what suits you with regard to your bail,” she said curtly before revoking her bail. She was due to be sentenced in court yesterday.

Man says driving ban after accident was ‘excessive’

A man who drove dangerously has successfully downgraded his three-year disqualification on appeal. Joel Alexander Ermington appeared before Penrith District Court on Tuesday in a bid to reduce his driving ban. Ermington, who was self-represented and currently serving a jail sentence, told Judge Mark Buscombe he was “a bit upset about the determination” and “thought it was a bit excessive”. “I just bumped into a car and I lost my licence for three years,” he said. “I feel taking my licence from me isn’t helping me... it’s just going to make it harder for me when I get out.” The court heard Ermington was convicted of three charges including ‘negligent driving’, ‘not give particulars to other driver’ and ‘drive manner dangerous’ stemming from the June 12, 2019 incident. Judge Buscombe said it was “very poor driving, dangerous driving” and it was fortunate no one had been injured when he collided with the elderly lady’s vehicle. However, he decided to reduce the disqualification to the 12-month minimum, noting the ban would not begin until at least August when Ermington was first eligible for parole.

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

St Marys: Dramatic chase after cash stolen from man at bank

A man has been charged after attempting to steal money from a person at a bank on Tuesday, January 28. About 12.30pm a 58-year-old man was waiting in a queue at a bank on Queen Street, St Marys when he took out a considerable sum of money from his wallet to make a deposit. It is alleged that a 41-year-old Kingswood man who was also in the bank at the same time walked past the man, snatching the cash and running outside. The 58-year old’s nephew, who was seated inside the bank, saw what happened and gave chase. During the chase, the 41-year-old threatened to stab the nephew. The offender entered a nearby taxi but was spotted by an off-duty police officer, who blocked the taxi from being able to leave. The 41-year-old was arrested and the money was returned to its owner, however $1300 was still missing. The offender was searched but the missing cash could not be located. He was conveyed to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with ‘larceny’ as well as ‘stalk and intimidate with intent to cause fear or physical harm’. He was set to appear at Penrith Local Court on Thursday, February 6.

Cranebrook: Woman busted driving without a licence

A woman has been charged after she was caught driving with a cancelled licence on Friday, January 31. About 12.40pm police were patrolling The Northern Road, Cranebrook when they stopped the woman for the purpose of a random breath test. The 18-year-old Richmond woman’s breath test proved negative, however she was only able to produce an expired learner’s licence. She informed police that she did not have her current P1 licence physically on

her. Inquiries made by police revealed that the woman was a holder of a Class C, P1 licence but that it was cancelled due to a disqualification period. She was charged with ‘drive while licence cancelled’ to appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, February 20.

St Clair: Woman was three times over legal alcohol limit

On Friday, January 31 a 36-year-old St Marys woman was caught more than three times over the legal limit while driving in St Clair. About 11.55pm the woman was stopped on St Clair Avenue, and was subjected to a random breath test. She returned a positive reading. She was conveyed to Penrith Police Station for further breath analysis, where she returned a positive reading of 0.169. She was issued a notice of suspension on her driver’s licence and was charged with driving with high range PCA. The woman will appear in Penrith Local Court to face the charges on Tuesday, February 25.

Penrith: Men on the run after stealing from supermarket

Police are calling for witnesses after a break and enter occurred at a Penrith supermarket on Friday, January 31. About 1am, two unknown male persons gained access to the Caloola Avenue supermarket by smashing the windows and forcing the front door open. The store was closed at the time. It is alleged that one of the men stole cigarettes while the other kept watch. The men left the premises a short time later. About 3.50am they returned, stealing the remainder of the cigarettes but this time accidentally activating the security alarm. Both men fled the store. Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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May’s case finally over The saga surrounding Panthers player Tyrone May has finally come to an end. A Local Court Magistrate sentenced May last Friday following a guilty plea in relation to offences of filming consensual sexual encounters without the consent of the other party, which were later published online and predicated the Panthers’ 2019 pre-season sex tape scandal. Magistrate Robyn Denes found that the offences were “right on the cusp of a custodial sentence”. In other words, she had considered sending May to prison for his offences. May was handed a good behaviour bond for a period of three years, which means that if he commits any other offence, whether related to these offences or not, he can be brought back before the Court and punished further for the sex tape offences. Bonds of this nature are designed to allow a person to go back into the community and prove that they can conduct themselves in a lawful and appropriate manner. Given May’s otherwise impervious record and the support of Panthers NRL Club, which is lauded in rugby league circles for its commitment to welfare and education, it is unlikely that the bond will be an issue for May. In addition, May will also have to perform 300 hours of community service. The types of community service that he will have to complete will include things like planting trees, removing graffiti, working in community groups, and any other tasks that May’s community service supervisor deems suitable. In determining whether a Community

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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Service Order is appropriate, the Court must take into account whether or not the defendant is a suitable person for such work, whether arrangements exist in the area in which the offender resides that will allow the offender to perform the community service work, and whether generally speaking it is appropriate in all of the circumstances that the offender be required to perform community work. In arriving at her determination, Magistrate Denes commented on May’s otherwise fantastic record, noting that he was already completing community work with the Panthers on the Prowl program. Whilst the Magistrate was critical of the name of the program, it is a brilliant initiative that has been facilitating tutelage and mentorship from players and local business identities for students of local schools for over a decade, with a focus on students who are at risk of losing their way on their educational journey. The name “Panthers on the Prowl” is symbolic of students taking their destiny in their own hands and attacking their future with vigour and enthusiasm. Any suggestion that the longstanding institution’s name should be changed is, in the writer’s respectful view, misplaced. The NRL will now need to make a decision as to whether or not Tyrone May will be able to immediately recommence his NRL career at the start of the 2020 season. The NRL retains a broad discretion to exclude players from playing if they are guilty of misconduct.

2020 NSW Training Awards Be Recognised Be recognised for your passion and skills in your vocational education and training journey. APPLY TODAY! Visit www.trainingawards.nsw.gov.au or phone 1800 306 999 for information on how to enter. Applications close 13 March 2020.

Photo: Kelsey Commons, 2019 NSW VET in Schools Student of the Year

faceboo facebook.com/trainingawards @nswtra @nswtrainingawards WW39729

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

SNIPS AND SNAPS YOUTH REVEAL BIGGEST ISSUES THEY’RE FACING IN THEIR LIVES Mission Australia’s Youth Survey Report 2019 reveals that young people aged between 15 and 19- years- old in western Sydney report issues and concerns relating to mental health, the environment, bullying and voice. In 2019, the top three issues considered the most important in Australia according to young people from western Sydney were mental health (39.9 per cent), the environment (33.7 per cent) and equity and

discrimination (27.3 per cent). For the third year running, mental health is the top national issue. In western Sydney in 2019, four in 10 young people indicated that mental health is an important issue in Australia today. The top four personal concerns for young people in western Sydney also

relate closely to mental health: coping with stress (57.2 per cent), school or study problems (45.2 per cent), mental health (39.4 per cent), and body image (35.9 per cent). For the first time in 2019, young people were asked whether they had experienced bullying, with one in six (16.9 per cent) reporting they had.

READ MORE AND SHARE THE SURVEY AT WWW.MISSIONAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

! SECOND WIN? Fresh off their first win after a 50 year drought, the Kansas City Chiefs are listed as $7 favourites with TAB to go back to back and take out next year’s Super Bowl. The Chiefs came from behind to beat the San Francisco 49ers in Miami on Monday morning. The TAB has posted the Baltimore Ravens as second favourites next year at $8, followed by the 49ers at $10 and the New Orleans Saints at $12. Next year’s Super Bowl will be played at Raymond James Stadium in Florida and is expected to be played on Sunday, February 7 (US time).

BIG FIND HUGE SPIDER DISCOVERED Recent rainy weather followed by intense heat has provided the perfect conditions for funnel web spiders to thrive. This week, the Australian Reptile Park received a giant funnel web from Newcastle that keepers have named Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson after the beefed-up movie star. The spider was handed in from the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, one of the drop off points for the Australian Reptile Park’s program. Keepers are eager to find out the suburb in which it came from.

OPEN NIGHT

The science is in! Singing makes you happier, healthier, smarter and more creative. And increasing research points to the benefits of singing with others. In fact, joining a choir could be one of the best decisions you ever make. Penrith City Choir is giving you the chance to do just that. The choir is holding an ‘Open Evening’ on Wednesday, February 19 at 7.30pm in Orchestral Room 2 at the Joan Sutherland Centre. Anyone interested in singing or joining a choir is very welcome at this free fun evening of singing. For more details, phone 0432 625 986 or visit the choir’s website at www. penrithcitychoir.com.au. Don’t forget to warm up in the shower!

JAZZ’S INSPIRING RIDE

A NATION OF AIR CON LOVERS! Air conditioning costs Aussie households $2 billion to run over summer, according to research from Finder. A survey of 1,013 Australians found 69 per cent of Aussies – equivalent to 6.8 million households – rely on their air con during the hotter months. The research found the average household runs their air conditioner for six hours a day during the peak summer period, at a cost of around $8.41 a day. Nearly 600,000 households admit they keep their air conditioning running when they’re not at home. The survey also found that the typical household runs their unit at 22 degrees – three degrees below the optimum temp.

Growing up in the Blue Mountains, it was sport and family that absorbed Jazz Hourigan’s time and attention, forging a promising rugby career through his teenage years. However, through the back- end of his high school years a chance opportunity with music changed the course of his young life. Starting with local gigs at prominent Penrith and Blue Mountains venues, Jazz, along with a close friend, developed a strong following as a DJ duo. Performing alongside many recognised names in the industry opened doors for the duo, known as ‘Jagged Beatz’. Jazz’s self- determination and drive has always underpinned his work and this ambition saw him take on a unique opportunity to travel to Los Angeles, with a dream of landing a record deal with US producers. Despite the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, a significant investment of time and money generated minimal returns for Jazz. The experience, although not as planned, taught him a valuable lesson in trust, decision making and relationships. Now back and grounded in the Blue Mountains, Jazz has re-focused his musical style and is close to releasing a new album. Concurrently, Jazz is working hard to rekindle relationships close to home, that drifted during his time abroad. Hear Jazz’s story on the new Passion & Perspectives podcast at www.westernweekender.com.au.

LOCAL HISTORIAN RETIRES LORRAINE CALLS IT A DAY

“We’ve laughed together, we’ve cried together, we’ve had so much fun over those 33 years.” RAY HADLEY CONFIRMS HIS EXIT FROM THE CONTINUOUS CALL TEAM

Local historian Lorraine Stacker has closed the chapter on her long career at Penrith City Library. Ms Stacker finished up last Friday and will now enjoy retirement. Lorraine’s retirement comes after 33 years of being instrumental in placing a spotlight on Penrith’s history. Her many initiatives included the organisation of a yearly local history conference, which became

so popular it outgrew function rooms in the Council building, and authoring books on the local area, including Penrith: Makings of a City. “Council would like to acknowledge and thank Lorraine Stacker for the huge contribution in the development of Penrith City Library, in particular, our Local Studies collection,” Council said in a social media post last Friday.

“This collection has grown and developed extensively under Lorraine’s stewardship into an information service cherished by the local community.” Lorraine was always extremely helpful when it came to history matters, and always helped the Weekender track down rare photos, or slices of history. We join with Council in wishing Lorraine all the best in retirement.

Werrington County residents say proposal will ruin “simplicity” of their suburb EMILY FESZCZUK lans for a mixed-use development comprising of 49 residential units in Werrington County that were halted years ago may be on the cards again. A development application (DA) has been resubmitted with modifications, but residents say they’ll rise up and fight against the development once more. The land, which was formerly owned by the Henry Sports Club, was sold in 2015 to Universal Property Group, which lodged an application in 2016. After a court battle and ultimate approval in 2018, Universal Property Group then sold the land last year. Zhinar Architects has now lodged an amended application on behalf of new owners. A Penrith Council spokesperson said the DA was approved through a NSW Land and Environment Court Determination before the applicant change. Exhibition of the modified DA commenced last Friday for two weeks. Resident Sue McNally claims the plans will ruin the “simplicity” of the suburb. “I actually moved here from the eastern suburbs 40 years ago to get away from high rise buildings, overcrowding and lack

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

Plan for new units revived

An artist’s impression of the planned development on Henry Lawson Avenue, Werrington County. of privacy, not to mention my concerns about the extra stress these sorts of places will put on an already overburdened Dunheved Road,” she said. “If we were desperate for accommodation in this area, I could maybe accept it but if you look at all the vacant rentals in the Penrith LGA already you can tell someone is just out to make some money.”

Zhinar Senior Architect, Philip Ng, could not disclose the name of the new owners to the Weekender but said they do not believe the application will create any new neighbouring issues. “There was an original architect on the first DA which was approved by the court decision back in March 2018 and those neighbouring issues were resolved at that

time. We are a new architect appointed by a new owner of the land, but the recent modification proposal applied to Council is a minor change of technical aspects for the building’s internal layouts only,” he said. Residents can make a submission with their views before February 14 via the DA Tracker by visiting www.bit.ly/3bfmYNA.

The Royce MORNING TEA TOURS

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Drivers must plan ahead Glenmore Parkway closed throughout February as Northern Road work continues NICOLA BARTON

ore than a dozen night road closures are scheduled for Glenmore Parkway over February, with motorists advised to plan ahead. Temporary closures to sections of the Glenmore Parkway and Wentworth Road will occur for a number of nights as part of work on The Northern Road upgrade between Glenmore Park and South Penrith. The work will be carried out over a five week period between 9pm and 5am on Wednesdays, and 9pm and 9am on Fridays and Saturdays. A Transport for NSW spokesperson said work is continuing to deliver the important upgrade which will provide easier, faster and safer travel for motorists once complete. “Glenmore Parkway will be closed between The Northern Road and Glengarry Drive for 13 nights in February to continue building new lanes as part of the important upgrade,” the spokesperson said. “Wentworth Road will also be closed between The Northern Road and just west of Cross Road. “Once the new lanes are built, work

PLANNED NIGHT ROAD CLOSURES Week 1 Saturday, February 1 Week 2 Wednesday, February 5 Friday, February 7 Saturday, February 8 Week 3 Wednesday, February 12 Friday, February 14 Saturday, February 15 Week 4 Wednesday, February 19 Friday, February 21 Saturday, February 22 Week 5 Wednesday, February 26 Friday, February 28 Saturday, February 29

The Glenmore Parkway will be closed during February to allow for upgrades of The Northern Road. Photo: Megan Dunn. will be carried out to convert the existing roundabout at the intersection of The Northern Road and Glenmore Parkway to a traffic light intersection.” The temporary closures will be in place at night until Saturday, February 29. “While work is carried out, those wishing to enter or exit the eastern end of Glenmore Park will be detoured via Bradley Street and Glengarry Drive. A secondary detour will also be available via Garswood

Road and St Andrews Drive,” the spokesperson said. “Motorists wishing to access Wentworth Road will be detoured via Kingswood and Frogmore Roads.” Road work signs and traffic controllers will guide road users through the temporary changes and detours while they are in place. “Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and follow the

direction of all signs and traffic control,” the spokesperson said. “The community and motorists will continue to be updated about the upcoming changes in the area and are thanked for their patience while work is carried out.” For the latest traffic updates and confirmation of road closures, call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App.

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

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

Roads need a re-think

Retailers losing track

The roads in Glenmore Park are bad (Long and winding roads, Weekender January 31). Constantly being used as a race track on weekends after dark. Regular crashes especially after rain, and peak times are an absolute disgrace trying to get out of the suburb. These roads need to be straightened out ASAP with traffic lights at Mulgoa Road entry due to largely increased traffic between the shopping centre and Mulgoa Road. Extra wear and tear on cars is just an added expense. Penrith Council know it’s a problem and just need to sort it out. SHANE, VIA WEBSITE

I don’t think it’s about late night trading at all. Look at the businesses in question and you’ll see the majority comes down to price and what they offer. Bardot, for example, tiny sizing, select market and high prices. I went to Jeanswest yesterday and their sale currently is a membership-only sale. The higher your loyalty membership (gold, silver, bronze level) the bigger discount you get. And full price it’s like 60 bucks for a plainish t-shirt. They aren’t targeting new customers at all. Not all bricks and mortar stores are suffering – the ones that price well and market well, do well, simple as that. The Plaza open till 8pm every night for example wouldn’t bring me there more. A good sale certainly would. CHANELLE VELLA, VIA FACEBOOK

Woes of the retail world

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I have worked in retail and most supply a good service to the customer but what I have found is that some customers expect servitude and the fallacy that the customer is always right (Editor’s Desk, Weekender January 31). Now I understand that companies like to keep customers happy so that they continue to come back but this should not be to the detriment of the staff working there by customers who think those who work in retail are second class people and should be treated with contempt. With the technology that is coming through there will be no staff to serve customers at all. DUNE RADER, VIA WEBSITE

Parking reprieve needed Parking is a huge issue when it comes to why I don’t spend much time in traditional shops. Go to High Street and you’re limited to half an hour or an hour – not enough time for a decent shop. If I go to a movie over at Westfield, I find myself rushing out instead of looking around the shops because management is stuck in the dark ages and won’t provide extra free parking for movie patrons, to the detriment of their tenants. STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

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

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the western weekender Â» Friday, February 7, 2020

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

$600k more affordable than Sydney! OVER 55? – Seek Extraordinary Value Fall in love with Summerfield at their Valentines open weekends This is crazy . . . FREEHOLD 3 bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car spacious designer villas from only $585,000

OPEN WEEKENDS – SAT AND SUN – 8TH & 9TH AND 15TH & 16TH FEBRUARY – 10 AM TO 4 PM 70 LITTLE RIVER RD, BRAIDWOOD (ONLY 3 HOURS DRIVE FROM SYDNEY CENTRE) Contact Denver Shoemark on 0408 762 517 or Tim Wright on 0418 700 654 for more information, private inspections or weekday inspections Summerfield is a boutique Over 55’s estate, positoned in the heart of the beautiful historic Braidwood. Unlike traditional Over 55’s estates or retirement villages, Summerfield is all FREEHOLD TITLE and there are no ghastly entry or exit fees. Surrounded by 3 sides of heritage-protected farmland on a wonderful north-facing site, and only 400m to the centre of Braidwood – Summerfield also has resort-style facilities and a terrific community atmosphere amongst residents. It is little wonder people are moving from Sydney, Canberra, Hobart and the surrounding areas to come live at Summerfield!

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

New approach to prison visits as family becomes key focus EMILY FESZCZUK

Winner of ‘Health Improvement Service’ Local Business Awards in 2017 Winner of the ‘Australian Small Business Champion Awards’ in the category of ‘Dental service’ in 2018

Majority of our new pa ents come from word of mouth, so we only have our pa ents to thank for our success so far.

One of the new areas at Emu Plains Correctional Complex.

Pa ent experience is the forefront of everything we do, our technology and comfort has been a point of diﬀerence.

This comes as the Committee on Children and Young People launched an enquiry on the possible impact on children with imprisoned parents and the adequacy of policies and services to assist them. Committee Chair Matthew Mason-Cox said it is a result of over 45 per cent of NSW inmates having at least one child under the age of 16, according to Shine for Kids. “We welcome the opportunity to learn more about what services are out there, both in prisons and the community, and the practical difference they make to the day- to- day lives of children and their families,” he said. “We are also keen to explore what could be done differently to better support the needs of these children, who find themselves in this situation through no fault of their own”. The closing date for submissions to the inquiry is Friday, February 28. For more information, visit www.bit. ly/2GOX7hi.

L BUSINE CA

2019 2 019

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Erskine Park Shopping Centre P: 9670 4141 9670 4008 www.erskineparkdental.com.au

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wo new sections were opened at Emu Plains Correctional Centre last week, with the playground and visit area carefully designed for female inmates to connect with their loved ones and Aboriginal culture. Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin said the project was funded by the Federal Government’s Indigenous Advancement Strategy, and has a focus on future outcomes. “We encourage inmates to maintain contact with their family and friends as it helps their rehabilitation and can reduce their chances of reoffending,” Mr Severin said. “Prison visits areas can be cold and daunting environments, particularly for children, however modern design is enabling us to provide spaces that uphold respect for the custodial setting while also being more comfortable for visitors from the community.” Emu Plains Manager of Security William McPhillips said the minimumsecurity inmates will also use the space for educational programs and rehabilitation activities. “For many women, visits from family are the one thing they look forward to and we want to ensure that is a good experience for children, too,” he said. “The redesigned space will help women to build on their life skills, prepare them for life after incarceration and create a smoother transition from prison to life back in the community.”

Department of Planning, Industry and Environment

The NSW Government is seeking your ideas and feedback on future uses for historic Fernhill Estate, Mulgoa

The NSW Government invites your feedback on the Options Paper, as well as any new ideas for using Fernhill Estate for public enjoyment in ways that protect its heritage and conservation values.

*MEMBERS’ PRICES

Contact us: Tel: 1300 305 695 Office of Strategic Lands NSW Planning Industry and Environment https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/ About-Us/Office-of-Strategic-Lands This advertisement is based on information available to the department at the time of publication. NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment reserves the right to make changes to its projects and activities in its absolute discretion at any time without notice to the extent permitted by law. WW40113

Kingswood Sports Club | 4737 4600 2 Santley Crescent, Kingswood | kingswoodsports.com.au

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A draft Options Paper has been prepared that outlines some potential future uses for Fernhill Estate. These options include revitalising the homestead for commercial use, alongside potential land uses such as for events, agricultural and not-for-profit activities.

Have your say Please visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/ fernhillestate to submit your ideas and comments. Feedback is open until midnight on Friday April 3, 2020.

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The NSW Government purchased Fernhill Estate and two adjoining properties in 2018, creating a 412-hectare property that combines heritage and conservational values alongside green open space, located as a gateway to the Blue Mountains National Park.

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Shaking up online selling Meet the local mums shrugging off misconceptions about multi-level marketing EMILY FESZCZUK

f you have social media then you are probably aware of multi- level marketing (MLM) businesses such as Tupperware, Arbonne and Intimo. While they often don’t have the best reputations, the Weekender spoke to local mums in business that are selling their side of the story. Kim Maree Portman from Jamisontown said she has always loved the Frankincense and I products she now sells. “I have been using doTERRA oils for four years and sharing them as a business for two and I fell in love with the products a long time before I realised there was a business opportunity,” she said. “We naturally recommend things we love to people, so my business just grew from there.” While pyramid schemes that are illegal focus on recruiting people to pay to join, MLM schemes try to sell their product then recruit others to sell as well. Sarah Sydir from Glenmore Park said she is very honest in her methods to sell Younique. “I am so against creepily messaging people as it just doesn’t work so I recruit using attraction marketing, honesty and

Sarah Ranson, Kim Maree Portman and Sarah Sydir busy at work. Photo: Megan Dunn. full transparency,” she said. “Most people come to me to join rather than me asking them, but it does take time to build rapport and have people trust you and follow you.” Sarah Ranson from Cambridge Park, who moved to Rodan + Fields after working in event management, said it is a great career option for everyone. “There can be some misconception

Penrith prepares for wet weekend After a summer of fires, smoke haze and dry conditions, February is set to deliver welcome relief over the coming days with heavy rain set to fall across much of the state.

Penrith will cop plenty of it – sparking warnings over potential flash flooding. More than 200mm of rain could fall in Penrith over the next few days, with Saturday and Sunday particularly wet.

about the industry, but I was impressed with both the vision and morals of the company,” she said. “It is an incredible option for people of all backgrounds but especially parents who want to be more present for their family.” While MLM schemes do sell genuine products, a spokesperson from the ACCC said consumers should be fully aware of what they are investing into.

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

We’re Cooling the City

Planning Panels

Notice of Public Meeting Sydney Western City Planning Panel The panel will meet to determine the following: • PPSSWC-34 – Penrith Council – DA19/0746 52-68 Taylor Road, Cranebrook – Construction of an Extension to St Paul’s Grammar School. • PPSSWC-18 – Penrith Council – DA19/0553 21 Copeland Street Kingswood – School Building. When:

Monday, 17th February 2020 at 3:00pm

Where:

Penrith Council, Passadena Room, 601 High Street, Penrith

Relevant documents will be available on the Planning Panels website www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/planningpanels at least seven days before the meeting. To register to speak at the meeting, please contact the Planning Panels Secretariat before 4pm on Thursday, 13th February 2020 on (02) 8217 2060 or email enquiry@planningpanels.nsw.gov.au The panel is required to make an audio record of the meeting and make the recording publicly available on the Planning Panels website. You should be aware that this may include your personal information if you are presenting to the panel.

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Any person may attend the meeting to observe.

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For more information: (02) 8217 2060 or visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/planningpanels

“Consumers are advised to think twice before entering schemes they do not fully understand and to do research to ensure they are not inadvertently joining a pyramid scheme,” the spokesperson said. “Consumers should check exactly how the scheme operates, what they would be required to do to earn any income and if there is a sufficient need for that product in the marketplace.”

When it’s hot in Penrith it’s hot and you can’t help but wonder how can I make my home cooler without making my energy bill even higher? As I have mentioned previously, Council is committed to tackling rising urban heat through innovation, to help maintain the sought after liveability of our City through our various Cooling the City initiatives. We all know Penrith can be hot and this summer is proving to be no exception! An important part of liveability includes residents feeling comfortable in their own homes during Penrith’s summer. That’s why Council is proudly offering residents access to a free community talk with renowned sustainability experts, to explore innovative solutions to cooling their homes. We are running this evening event titled – Homes & Heat: Inspirational Design, Building and Retrofit Solutions – at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on February 18. Our sustainability experts, including

Dr Josh Byrne from ABC’s ‘Gardening Australia’, will talk about concepts like passive solar design and Passive House, so you can learn how this works in practice and what is suitable for our local climate. Dr Byrne will also talk about his own home in Perth, which has design features that keep it remarkably cool inside on stifling 40+ degree days without the aid of any air-conditioning. Blue Mountains-based building designer, Mark Davis, will be speaking about how sustainability can be practically incorporated when designing a new home from scratch, and Nevin Sweeney, from Permaculture Sydney West, will be providing tips about how to make your existing home cooler and more efficient. I invite you to join us for an engaging and practical evening as we delve into what it takes to make a home cool and comfortable to beat the summer heat.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

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

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

AƩenƟon Parents of Year 7 Students 2021 INFORMATION EVENING TUESDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2020 Colyton High School has been a valued part of the Colyton community for over 50 years and con nues to build pathways to success for students. Why consider Colyton High School as your choice of school for your child? Our professional and dedicated staﬀ are commi ed to delivering an inclusive school environment that: • Nurtures and supports the wellbeing of every student in a quality learning environment; • Sets high expecta ons of performance with opportuni es for all learners to achieve and thrive; • Provides a wide range of enriching opportuni es to foster individual talents; • Ac vely builds genuine learning partnerships with parents, families and the local community; • Inspires and develops thriving school and community leaders. Colyton High School cordially invites parents, carers and prospec ve Year 7 students (2021) to a BBQ and tour of our outstanding school facili es on Tuesday February 18. Our friendly staﬀ will be on hand to guide you around the school to see the quality learning resources available for all of our students and answer your ques ons about our comprehensive academic and voca onal HSC pathways and suppor ve wellbeing programs that help make Colyton High School the right fit for your child.

Contact the school if you require further informa on Phone: 9623 2789 Fax: 9833 1165 colyton-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

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WHEN: 6:00PM – 7.30pm WHERE: IN THE SCHOOL COMMON ROOM BBQ PROVIDED Principal: Mr D. Butler 37-53 Carpenter Street, Colyton 2760

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Street uni opens its doors Program has had major success in helping young people turn their lives around EMILY FESZCZUK

new program run by the Ted Noffs Foundation has opened its doors to support young people. The Penrith Street University is a free service for 12 to 25- year- olds providing a safe space and activities. Co- founder of the Street Universities, Naomi Noffs, who opened the first centre in Liverpool in 2008, said the program focuses on young people who are dealing with drug, crime and mental healthrelated issues. “The program includes recreational activities and workshops, such as music making, dance and art, as well as workshops to enhance skills and create pathways to employment,” she said. “However, this isn’t like a traditional youth centre – the Street Universities have been proven not only to reduce problems like drug use in a young person’s life, they have reduced crime across whole communities.” Ms Noffs said the new centre is the eighth in the country. “It has been made possible by funding from the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network and is currently being completed to include a recording studio,

Penrith Street University Manager Nathan Williams and Co-founder Naomi Noffs. Photo: Megan Dunn. multimedia lab, dance room and other open spaces for young people,” she said. “We see thousands of young people every year across all of our sites and they achieve significant reductions in drug use by up to 75 per cent, arrests drop by over 50 per cent and mental wellbeing increases after using the service.”

Excited to welcome young people from Penrith to the campus, Ms Noffs said they are thankful for all the support for the program. “We are grateful to the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network and the Federal Government as these are essential services that people otherwise

would be reluctant to seek out,” Ms Noffs said. “It is about reconnecting young people with their communities and diverting them away from criminal activity, so I can’t wait for everyone to enjoy.” The campus is located at Shop 2, 114-116 Henry St, Penrith.

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Hayes family raises money for program that helped them through toughest time NICOLA BARTON

n June 2018, Tim and Keri-Anne Hayes waved goodbye to their 14- year- old daughter Stephanie as she left to attend a sleepover, oblivious to the pain and horror that would soon follow. At her friend’s house not long after, Stephanie had difficulty breathing and collapsed before being rushed to hospital. It was then a CT scan discovered a large lymphoma tumour in her chest, located between her heart and lungs, which came as a complete shock to the family. Due to the pressure it put on her vital organs, Stephanie went into cardiac arrest and remained unresponsive due to the significant brain damage it caused. Since then the family has had to struggle with every parent’s worst nightmare – the sudden loss of their innocent child. “We had absolutely no idea, she had a bit of a cough a few weeks prior but we had taken her to see the doctor and he gave her some medication for that,” he said. “She never woke up after she collapsed.” Stephanie’s younger sister, Olivia, struggled with the trauma that ensued. “Olivia, she went silent. She didn’t want to talk about it, but we knew we needed to find help for her,” Mr Hayes said.

Tim, Olivia and Keri-Anne Hayes. Photo: Megan Dunn.

To help her grieve the loss of her sister, the family enrolled her into ‘Feel the Magic’, a program where she would meet other children who are going through a similar experience. “They are given tools to manage their grief in a place where their feelings are truly understood,” Mr Hayes said. “At their Camp Magic you’re in an environment with 50 other kids going through the same thing and they’re given mentors to assist them. “When she came back she was like a different child.” Mr and Mrs Hayes were also provided support through the program with adult sessions. Now, the family have taken it upon themselves to give back to the foundation that helped them through some of their darkest days. As part of the 2020 Cole Classic races, they have started a Swim for Stephanie team and fundraiser to help other children receive the support they need at Camp Magic. “It costs $1000 per child to send them to Camp Magic, so every $1000 we raise is another person we are supporting to go,” Mrs Hayes said. So far the family has raised over $5000. To donate, visit bit.ly/2Sh7Vdk.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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Friday, February 7, 2020 Â« the western weekender

New TAFE initiative uses music to teach English, with spectacular results NICOLA BARTON

ravelling to a foreign country to seek an education can be a daunting experience. TAFE NSW Nepean is easing the stress and tuning in with its multicultural students through a new creative initiative. In order to assist their transition to life in Australia, students will be taught songs to assist them with their English and pronunciation of words in a fun and relaxed setting. Some of the languages spoken in the classroom include Chinese, Arabic, Nepali, Hindu, Spanish and Farsi. As part of the new teaching technique by TAFE NSW, students learn to sing the Australian anthem and a number of songs from traditional Australian artists. Since implementing the technique, teachers at the Nepean campus have reported significant growth in class participation and improvement in language retention among students studying a Certificate II in Spoken and Written English. Former speech pathologist and Nepean TAFE teacher Belinda Simpson said this also teaches students Australian culture and history through music.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

Singing program’s praises

Belinda Simpson, Kim Alexander and students from the Adult Migrant English Program. Photo: Megan Dunn. “Adapting singing into classes has significantly helped improve TAFE NSW students’ English fluency and pronunciation and, at the same time, has created an environment that makes students excited to learn the language,” she said. “From songs, students can learn new vocabulary, grammar and phonics as rhyme is often used in lyrics.”

As part of the class students also learn to read and interpret different texts like recipes, forms and reports and practice real life scenarios like buying something from the shops, asking for directions and socialising with others. With almost 44 per cent of people in western Sydney speaking a language other than English at home, TAFE also offers

a number of English classes in addition to the Adult Migrant English Program, funded by the Federal Government, which provides up to 510 hours of English classes for newly arrived migrants. For more information on the Adult Migrant English Program or to find out how to take part, visit tafensw.edu.au/ amep or call 1800 114 707.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

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basis. However, make sure to do it in moderation. Automation helps you save time but you don’t have to schedule every update. Optimise your images for all social media platforms Instagram scales down the images to 612 x 612 while the optimal size for shared Facebook post images is 1,200 x 630 pixels. Resizing your posts to match the requirements of the different social media platforms can be tiring and time-consuming. You can manually edit the photos using Photoshop, or you can use Canva’s resize feature to resize them in one go. Create multiple posts from new blog posts If you want to drive more traffic to your website, this will do the trick. All you need to do is create multiple posts that focus on different parts of your article. Aside from highlighting your new article, this also saves you time from thinking of new topics for your social media posts. Make sure to schedule the posts at different intervals to maximize their exposure.

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ocial media plays an important role in promoting your business, regardless of the size of your business or what industry you are in. But growing your social media takes more than just posting a random update or two. It is a long-term process that is often time-consuming. Here are some effective and proven social media hacks that will help small business owners to make the most of social media without spending countless hours on it. Schedule what you can Most marketers would advise you against automating your social media because your social media page will sound like a robot. But automation is only good if you know how to use it. You can schedule posts that are not time-sensitive, such as: – Service or product promotions – Q&As – Messages or quotes – Evergreen blog articles – Events (to build up the hype) Scheduling some posts ensures that you have something posted on a regular

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

13 reasons to see Paul Kelly A

ustralian music legend Paul Kelly is coming to the Coliseum Theatre with a unique performance. He will be bringing together musicians from broad- ranging backgrounds to perform poetry inspired by birds for his show ‘Thirteen Ways to Look at Birds’. Paul told the Weekender that he could not take credit for the idea behind the 2019 ARIA Award-winning album of the same name.

“Anna Goldsworthy, who is the pianist in Seraphim Trio, actually gave me the idea of putting poems about animals to music but we realised that was a huge frame so narrowed it to birds,” he said. “James Ledger composed with me and we also have from Seraphim Trio Helen Ayres on violin and Tim Nankervis on cello along with singer Alice Keath, so it’s a really fun project that has been brewing for a few years.” Known for his talent for story telling through his songs, Paul said it wasn’t a huge jump to do a project like this. “Songwriting is all about keeping your ears open as there are songs all around us

and poetry is the same, it’s just a matter of picking it up and trying to make something of it,” he said. “I’ve read poetry since I was in school, it has influenced my songs and poets like Thomas Hardy have been companions to me for a long time, so it feels natural to work with their words.” While Paul, 65, plans to rest more this year, he said audiences will enjoy the latest project he is offering up. “The last couple of years have been so busy I want to slow down a little. I will be releasing an album I recorded last year with Paul Grabowsky but no other big plans at the present,” he said.

“This show won’t be a normal Paul Kelly one but if you like music and poetry it is something new and fresh so you will find something in it, and I talk in between about them which is fun.” To see Paul put 13 of his favourite poems from John Keats or Judith Wright to music, make sure to get your tickets to this performance now! Paul Kelly in ‘Thirteen Ways to Look At Birds’ will be on at Sydney Coliseum Theatre in Rooty Hill on Saturday, February 29 at 8pm. Tickets are from $44.90. To book or for more information, call 9851 5912 or visit sydneycoliseum. com.au.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 Â« the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

EMILY FESZCZUK

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ou will leave your real life at the door when you see ‘Spiegelesque’ in Penrith. Take an unexpected romp into the extravagant world of cabaret, comedy, circus and burlesque. Part cabaret, part dance, part circus and all decadent world - class entertainment, ‘Spiege lesque’ is immersive and eclectic. With dynamic dancing, aerial artistry, sultry singers, sequins, feathers and poles, it’s immersive and eclectic; daring, comical, sexy and spectacular.

A true kaleidoscope of entertainment like you’ve never seen before. Why not grab a group and be dazzled by acclaimed star Wayne Scott Kermond and his dynamic cast of entertainers. The show is for people over the age of 15 but afterwards you can join the performers for a meet and greet at the bar. Check out their costumes close up, grab a photo and have a chat. ‘Spiegelesque’ will be on at The Joan in Penrith on Saturday, February 29 at 2pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are from $30. To book or for more information, call 4723 7600 or visit www.thejoan.com. au.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

New play takes a unique look at a serious issue EMILY FESZCZUK

et ready to rumble at Riverside for a stunning new work called ‘Trash Talk’. Strangeways Ensemble, which is behind the show, is a permanent group at Merrigong Theatre Company of seven professional actors perceived to have intellectual disability. Set in a fictional recycling depot of an Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE), it explores some of the workplace issues faced by people living with disabilities, drawing inspiration from the ensemble members’ own experiences from the real- life 2018 review of award wages for people working in commercial businesses, and the personal impact that it had on the cast.

With a hugely entertaining blend of humour, physical theatre and video projection, framed within a professional wrestling tournament, the gladiatorial approach to human rights and our universal desire for respect and dignity reaffirms the right to work as fundamental to human existence. ‘Trash Talk’ will be on at Riverside Theatre on February 14 and 15. Tickets are $24. To book, call 8839 3399 or visit www.riversideparramatta.com.au.

Symphony inspires WW39865

CABARET | MUSIC

SPIEGELESQUE EMILY FESZCZUK

eel the power of orchestral music as Sydney Symphony Orchestra showcases its program of contemporary and classical music at the Coliseum. ‘The Rite of Spring’ by Russian composer Igor Stravinsky is one of the most thrilling pieces of music ever composed and will be led by acclaimed conductor Pietari Inkinen. Famous for causing a riot at its premiere in Paris over 100 years ago, it’s an incredible showcase of the power of the orchestra to excite and thrill. While originally designed as a work for the

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stage, the music of ‘The Rite of Spring’ achieved equal if not greater recognition as a concert piece and is widely considered to be one of the most influential musical works of the 20th century. The program will also include Wagner’s ‘Die Meistersinger – Prelude’, and Sibelius’ ‘The Swan of Tuonela’. Don’t miss the first of a series of concerts featuring leading international artists at western Sydney’s new home of culture and the arts. ‘The Rite of Spring’ will be on at Sydney Coliseum Theatre in Rooty Hill on Saturday, February 22 at 8pm. Tickets are from $25. To book or for more information, call 9851 5912 or visit sydneycoliseum.com.au.

the western weekender Â» Friday, February 7, 2020

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 St Marys Probus Club Second Tuesday of each month • 0411 248 149 Penrith South Probus Club Third Thursday of each month 4729 21199 Penrith Museum of Printing Saturdays from 10am-2pm Pen Paceway • 0415 625 573 Nepean Retired Men’s Club Third Wednesday of each month • 0401 507 260

WHAT'S ON AND WHERE HEADING OUT Friday, February 7

The Children’s Hour John Lees Centre, 4735 5422 Saturday, February 8, 7pm, From $20

Marina Prior & David Hobson – Penrith Panthers $59, 8pm 1800 061 991 Damage Inc Metallica Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Time Machine – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Rave On – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Lisa Crouch & Dig This St Marys Leagues, 9677 7777 Friday, February 7, 9pm, Free entry

Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith

Sunday, February 9

Di Solomon – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777

Alan Solomon Jazz – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Groove Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Toxic Dolls – Blue Cattledog Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9670 3050 One Too Many – St Marys RSL Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 6555 Too Many Guitars – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Underwraps – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 Chris Drummond Duo Rhapsody – Blacktown Workers Club Free entry, 7.30pm 9830 0600 Vince Jones & The Astral Orchestra Blue Mountains Theatre & Hub, 4723 5050 Friday, February 14, 8pm, From $66

Jive Bombers Penrith RSL, 4728 5200 Sunday, February 9, 2pm, Free entry

St Marys Stitch and Sew Tuesdays 1pm St Marys Parish Hall Penrith Red Cross Branch Second Thursday of each month • 9623 6702 Penrith RSL Travel Club New members welcome 0405 332 464 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143 Penrith Lions Club Second and fourth Monday Penrith Bowlo • 4736 1546

Saturday, February 8

Queen Bohemian Rhapsody – Blacktown Workers Club From $35, 8pm 9830 0600 Christie Lamb – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Australian Fleetwood Mac Show – Penrith Panthers From $32.40, 8pm 1800 061 991 Mulgoa Road Jazz Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Rough Diamond – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Eclypse – St Marys RSL Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 6555 Matchbox 20 Tribute Band – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8.30pm 4722 8180 Akinga – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 DJ Magoo – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211

Sunday, February 16

Friday, February 14

Soul Jamz – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Endless Summer Beach Party – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 M7 – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Juke Box Live – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Single & Ready To Mingle – Pioneer Tavern $15, 8pm 4736 4466

Saturday, February 15

Rock City Saints – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Am2pm – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180

Birds of Prey (MA15 Strong themes, violence and coarse language) Thurs, Mon, Tues: 10:15AM, 11:10AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM, 3:45PM, 4:40PM, 6:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:30PM, 9:15PM. Fri: 10:15AM, 11:10AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM, 3:45PM, 4:40PM, 6:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:30PM, 9:15PM, 9:50PM. Sat: 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 12:30PM, 1:50PM, 3:15PM, 4:30PM, 6:00PM, 7:10PM, 8:30PM, 8:45PM, 9:50PM. Sun: 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 12:30PM, 1:50PM, 3:15PM, 4:30PM, 6:00PM, 7:20PM, 8:30PM, 8:45PM. Wed: 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 1:00PM, 1:45PM, 3:45PM, 4:20PM, 6:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:30PM, 9:15PM.

PENRITH

SESSIONS VALID 6TH TO 12TH FEBRUARY

Andre Rieu: 70 Years Young (E Exempt) Sat, Sun: 1:00PM. WW38935

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

H Is for Happiness (PG Mild themes and coarse language) Daily except Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 3:30PM. Sat, Sun: 10:30AM, 1:30PM.

Mescalero – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Venus 2 – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777

Manpower Australia Penrith Panthers, 1800 061 991 Saturday, February 15, 7.30pm, $41.75

O D UST

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Penrith Museum of Fire Open daily 9.30am-4.30pm 4731 3000 • 1 Museum Drive Nepean Potters Society Third Tuesday of the month 9630 6364 Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce • Regular events penrithchamber.org.au Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm Coffee Club Nepean River Alcoholics Anonymous Mondays at 6pm 1300 222 222 Gamblers Anonymous Mondays at 7.30pm 0433 018 484 Dementia Carers Support Group • Fortnightly meetings 4751 3033 Penrith Carer Support Group First Thursday of the month Headspace • 8880 8160

Your chance to get crafty at Panthers this weekend CraftAlive is a hands-on event for the whole family to get creative. Featuring both local and interstate craft experts the show is packed full of the latest craft supplies, kits and equipment. You will have the chance to learn traditional to modern crafts from specialists with interactive classes. It is on at Penrith Panthers from Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9 at 9.30am to 4pm. Tickets are from $12 for adults and free for children under 14. Visit craftalive.com.au.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

Penrith Women’s Health Centre • Monday to Friday 4721 8749 Suicide Prevention and Support Network 0402 627 696 Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 JP Service in Penrith Tuesday and Thursday 7/458-470 High St • 9am-5pm

The music you grew up with

The Dingo Den Discovery Experience will provide education and lots of cuddles. It is on this Saturday at 8am to 10am. Tickets from $40.

Swing back into the ‘60s at Blue Mountains Theatre and Community Hub on Wednesday, February 12 at 11am. Tickets are $20.

JP Service in St Marys Wednesdays at St Marys Village • 9623 7700

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Fun way to learn for kids

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Friday, February 7, 2020 Â« the western weekender

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Irish crime drama ‘Dublin Murders’ will premiere on SBS on Wednesday, February 19 at 8.30pm. The eight-part series, adapted by Sarah Phelps, is based on two books in the novel series by Dana French. Each book is led by a different detective and their signature is described as an intense emotional connection between cop and crime. This was a ratings winner when it aired in the UK recently. Ê Cult Paul Fenech comedy ‘Fat Pizza: Back in Business’ has been renewed for another season by 7mate. Ê

UK music special ‘Kylie Minogue’s

FEBRUARY 7

8.30PM

BROOKLYN NINE-NINE, SBS

Secret Night’ will screen at 7.30pm this Saturday, February 8 on SBS directly before ‘Eurovision: Australia Decides’. Hosted by comedian Alan Carr, the special screened at Christmas in the UK and was a big hit. Soapie fans rejoice! The 10,000th episode of ‘Coronation Street’ will air on UKTV on Tuesday, February 18 at 7.20pm. The British soap is the world’s longest running serial drama. Incredible!

Ê The new season of ‘Grand Designs’, hosted by Kevin McCloud will hit the ABC this Sunday, February 9 at 7.40pm.

Ê Exciting news for fans of US comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ with the brand-new season to be fast-tracked via SBS. It all begins tonight, February 7 at 8.30pm with a double episode. Ê ‘Survivor: Winners at War’ premieres on 9GO! next Thursday, February 13 at 7.30pm. Ê After a scare that its legendary run might be coming to an end, US soap ‘Days Of Our Lives’ has been officially renewed by NBC for a record 56th season. ‘Days’ currently airs on FOX One. Ê Season 12 of Emmy-winning reality show ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ premieres on Stan on Saturday, February 29. Companion show ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked’ will also screen. WW40164

FEBRUARY 23 8.30PM THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM, ABC

The eighth and final season of US drama ‘Homeland’ will be fast-tracked to SBS VICELAND this Monday, February 10 at 8.30pm.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

Ê Acclaimed documentary ‘The Australian Dream’, which centres around former AFL champion Adam Goodes, premieres at 8.30pm on Sunday, February 23 on the ABC. The film uses the inspirational story of Goodes as the prism through which to tell a deeper and more powerful story about race, identity and belonging. The film unpicks the events of the 2013-15 AFL seasons and asks fundamental questions about the nature of racism and discrimination in Australia.

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42 WW40188

Friday, February 7, 2020 Â« the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

At the movies... Flop never gets off the ground LIKE A BOSS + 1 hour, 23 minutes

‘Like a Boss’ is a movie about beauty, but it has been well and truly botched. The story follows best friends Mia (Tiffany Haddish) and Mel (Rose Byrne), who run their own beauty company together. Needing a cash injection, cosmetics titan Claire Luna (Salma Hayek) tries to buy the girls’ business and turn their relationship ugly to get rid of her competition. With a strong cast including Billy Porter and Jennifer Coolidge, it had the potential to be funny and fierce, but failed miserably. The plot felt so cringe- worthy and unrealistic, with over exaggerated

stereotypes from the uptight white girl, the crude black woman and don’t get me started on Hayek’s truly terrifying Mexican villain character. The story line was rushed with nothing resembling a deep plot and the relationships were only skin deep, yet there were intended to be a major theme. For a film purporting to be a comedy, not enough of the jokes were funny and at times it felt like we were watching all involved just go through the motions, waiting to cash in their pay cheques. While there is value in a mindless chick flick to enjoy, this flop had no real thought behind it at all. There’s very little to see here.

“Flawless musical performances... Simply astounding to watch and a pleasure to the ear” —Opera Online 5,000 YEARS OF CIVILISATION REBORN

Capitol Theatre Sydney 4 – 22 March, 2020

“Incredible, just amazing! I love the costume and the colour. It kind of inﬂuences my ideas what I want to do to the next collection.” —Carla Zampatti, Australian fashion designer

“Its spectacular... it’s really interesting to see the combination of tumbling, acrobatics, and martial arts type movements incorporated into the choreography.” —Steven Heathcote, Ballet Master, Australian National Ballet

Ticketmaster: 1300 558 878 ticketmaster.com.au Presenter: (02) 8988 5611 ticketsau.shenyun.com

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

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

Crossword ACROSS 1. Snatch 4. Shipping route (3,4) 8. Satisfied sighs 11. Metropolitan 13. Whip marks 15. Sacrificial block 17. Teasing remark 18. Coffee without stimulant 20. Partnership 21. Take down (washing) 24. This planet 27. Queen’s honour (1,1,1) 28. Animal charity (1,1,1,1,1) 30. Certify (accounts) 31. ... one’s weight in gold 33. Homecoming 34. Three times 35. Axe-like cutter 36. Combustion 39. Injured 42. Join together 44. Used to be 45. Smears 46. Swedish car company 48. Member of religious order 49. Diving gear 50. Stash 52. Neglected to (4’1) 54. Nothing more than 55. Gestured 56. Ravish 57. Straightforward 60. A long way off 62. Inconspicuous audio piece 65. Sharp road bend 67. Gargle & spit 69. Interior design 70. Exercise 72. Flower patch 73. Start 75. Supplant 77. Garment edge 79. Occupy the throne 81. Army manoeuvres 82. Put up with 84. Last Greek letter 85. Ancient language 86. Electricity unit 87. Experienced 88. Genuine, ... fide

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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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.

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Test your knowledge about the Australian media in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. Which Channel 10 newsreader recently celebrated 30 years in the business? 2. Who started as the new host of ABC’s ‘Insiders’ last weekend? 3. Who hosts the top- rating breakfast program on Sydney’s 2GB?

4. How many separate stints did Mike Willesee have as host of ‘A Current Affair’? 5. In what year did The Daily Telegraph stop printing a separate afternoon edition? 6. What iconic radio station call sign was re-instated this week?

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PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

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JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

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PISCES

ARIES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

If you have a problem that needs to be faced or a decision that needs to be made, avoid being distracted by other people’s agendas. Coupled Pisces: a successful long-term relationship requires hard work and constant commitment. As writer Ursula Le Guin reminds us: “Love doesn’t just sit there, like a stone. It has to be made like bread, remade all the time, made new”.

TAURUS

Mars is activating your adventure zone until the 16th. So restless Rams are raring to go as you travel, explore and venture into exciting new territory (locally, interstate or internationally). Love planet Venus is vamping through your sign until March 5. So – whether you are attached or single – Friday is the perfect time to flutter your eyelashes (or flex your pecs) and ask for what you want.

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

This week love has the potential to heal, as you find the courage to follow your true destiny. Attached Taureans: romance is in the air but the energy is behind the scenes suggesting a private, magical Valentine’s Day. Single Bulls: unexpected synchronicities could lead you to your soul mate. So look for amazing signs along the way. As Victor Hugo said: “Life is a flower of which love is the honey”.

GEMINI

CANCER

LEO

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Mars is charging through your relationship zone until Sunday. So – when it comes to love – you need to be bold and brave. As Lao Tzu said: “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage”. Attached Geminis: it’s time to go on an adventure with your sweetheart. Singles: a solid friendship could veer off in a surprisingly romantic direction.

Crabs adore their creature comforts – especially yummy food that makes you feel good. This week is the perfect time to cook up a storm or eat out at your favourite restaurant. And then Valentine’s Day is an appropriate time to reflect on the fact that love really does make the world go around. As Charles M. Schultz said: “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt”.

The Sun (your ruler) is racing through your relationship zone, so it’s a week when your thoughts will turn to romance, passion and companionship. Coupled Cats: with Venus visiting your aspirations zone on Valentine’s Day, find a dream you can share together. “Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but of looking outward together in the same direction” (Antoine St Exupery).

LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Scorpios can be intense control-freaks! However, when it comes to your romantic life, avoid being over-organised and ubercontrolling. With unpredictable Uranus moving slowly through your relationship zone, leave plenty of room for spontaneity and surprises! As legendary actress Loretta Young observed: “Love isn’t something you find. Love is something that finds you”.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

With sombre Saturn and heavy-duty Pluto visiting your romance zone, your love life is currently a very serious business. As writer William Barclay once said: “Love always involves responsibility and love always involves sacrifice”. But Jupiter also promises moments of great joy and supreme happiness. So learn to take the good with the bad and the rough with the smooth.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Are you a grumpy Goat with no get-upand-go? Have your usual motivation and mojo gone AWOL? Don’t worry because it will be all systems go from the 16th onwards, when gung-ho Mars starts racing through your sign. Coupled Capricorn: focus your attention on your lover, as you give them the royal romantic treatment this Valentine’s Day. Single? You could finally meet your soul mate!

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Sagittarians are restless souls, always searching for something bigger and better in the future. With Mars moving through your sign and Venus visiting your romance zone, it’s time to focus on the present and make close relationships a major priority, right here and right now. As writer George Sand said: “There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.”

The Sun is currently shining in Aquarius, the wildest and wackiest sign of the zodiac. Some Aquarians are weirder than others but you all have a quirky and eccentric side, even if you manage to hide it well. Valentine’s Day wisdom for the week is from Dr Seuss: “When we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love”.

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Is love interfering with your career or vice versa? In 2020, make it a priority to find a satisfying balance between your romantic life and your professional responsibilities. Venus is visiting your relationship zone on Valentine’s Day, so you’ll be even more focused on other people than usual. As Robert A. Heinlein said: “Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own”.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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We can’t let our investments be impacted by our natural instincts

hen it comes to investing human instincts make us make bad investment decisions, as an advisor our role is often encouraging our clients to ignore some of these instincts and stick to their plan. I had a classic example of this during a recent client review, after discussing the client’s circumstances and goals we had a look at the progress of their superannuation, with the markets performing poorly over the past 12 months the value of the portfolio had fallen by about four per cent. The client was quite concerned about this loss and was immediately thinking about safer options. Under closer inspection, the client over the previous three years had made over $40,000 and averaged around 10 per cent return. This is above the long-term expectations for the investment. Once viewing the longer timeframe, the client was comfortable with the investment and was happy to continue with the long term investment strategy. But what makes us forget the three good

years of return and focus on the negative year, that the client was more than aware was going to happen at some point? There are two human instincts that have been drilled into us through years of evolution that have helped the human race survive and thrive, but hurt us when making investment decisions. The first is “recent event bias”, this is essentially giving the most recent event greater importance than all previous events. This normally helps us, as it allows us to adapt to changing environments. For example if over time a road gets busier and busier we take caution close to the last time we crossed the road, not the long- term average. This of course makes sense with most things. Our most recent encounter with something is usually the most relevant to how we deal with it in this encounter. What happens with investing, this causes us to look at short timeframes and assume that recent returns are most likely to replicate upcoming returns. This is of course not true, and in fact quite the opposite, after a reasonably sustained

period of growth, we are likely to experience a correction and the market will fall to its “true value”, and the reverse is also true, often a market loss is followed by an above average gain the following year. Looking at these shorter periods is likely us to do exactly the reverse of the common mantra, we are likely to buy high and sell low. Definitely not what we know we should do. The other human instinct is that fear of loss is far greater than the hope of

gain. There have been numerous studies which indicate that most humans are far more motivated by fear of loss, than they are by the opportunity to make a gain. Evolutionary speaking, this stops us from doing stupid things and really increases life expectancy. When it comes to investing, this can really lead to panic when markets fall. The fear of losing more money far outweighs the opportunity for the investment to bounce back. This often leads to panic selling. All of a sudden the client has forgotten about the three years of great returns that have seen the investment grow and can only see the loss. Although I can logically tell you, that if you put your money in a balanced investment for 10 years, and leave it, we can predict with reasonable accuracy a range your investment will end up. In leaving it for 10 years we have to at times fight our instincts and remember the long term plan. Easier said than done at times, and sometimes the most value an advisor can offer you is to protect you from your instincts.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

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t OnePointHealth we see an array of individuals from different demographics presenting for a range of conditions. Specifically, within the podiatry setting we see a lot of different presentations requiring treatment. The types of treatments can be broken down into two main categories, a biomechanical assessment and a general treatment. Today we will discuss what happens when a patient presents for a general treatment. Recently a patient has presented to the clinic after walking past and curiously, she made an appointment. During our consultation she quoted that she felt too young and too healthy to be seeing a podiatrist. Whilst we commonly treat a lot of patients who have a complex medical history, we also consult those who currently have no medical conditions. During a general treatment your podiatrist will do a pre- screening including a neurovascular assessment. This includes checking your sensory input, feeling for your pulse and if needed, using a handheld doppler device to listen to the pedal

pulses sound waves. Treatment then involves cutting, burring and filing toe nails, removal of any ingrown toenails, debridement (scraping away with a blade) of any hard skin (callous) or corns. The feet are then buffed using a drill piece to

further smoothen the skin and emollients are then applied. There is always an opportunity to ask any foot-related questions to which your podiatrist will be able to address or determine if further assessment and treatment

is necessary, or if further referrals may be needed. Next time you notice your feet catching on the sheets or if you are just needing a little TLC, don’t hesitate to consider booking yourself in to see a podiatrist.

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Early education is the key to a puppy integrating into the human world

ith everyone starting to head back to school, have you thought about enrolling your new puppy into

class yet? Our classes will teach you about puppy socialisation, dog communication, leadership, vet care, child and dog safety and troubleshooting unacceptable behaviour. Over a four- week period you and your puppy will learn practical information and put you on the path to success. A puppy is a part of the whole family so we encourage you to bring along schoolaged children to be involved in the classes and training. Greencross Vets Best Behaviour Puppy Preschool Program is specifically designed for dogs aged between six weeks to six months, as this is a very important developmental period for dogs. It is the time that puppies start exploring, a time when puppies are very accepting of new situations and experiences, and learn strategies to cope with situations that may be new or a little frightening. This makes it the perfect time for introducing your

puppy to the big wide human world it is going to live in – a world of funny sights (bicycles, cars, balloons, hats, other animals), funny sounds (television, lawn mowers, vacuum cleaners), and funny smells (perfumes and cleaning agents). It is also a good time for learning about other dogs – that they come in all shapes and sizes, floppy ears, long tails, short or tall. For some dogs, missing this ‘window of opportunity’ can lead to a life time of fear and anxiety. Even though it is important to continue to expose your dog to as many things as possible throughout adolescence, this early period is seen as perhaps the most important. Our aim is to give you realistic expectations of your pet through the understanding of their natural behaviours. The program equips you with the tools to develop a strong relationship with your pet, allowing them to become a real part of the family. We offer every new puppy a complimentary health check prior to booking into a Puppy Preschool class. Contact Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

SWIM SAFETY

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Encourage your kids to take the plunge at this year’s carnival

s your child’s school swimming carnival coming up soon? I remember my school carnival days very fondly, so I was very surprised when attending my own children’s swimming carnivals to see how participation rates have declined over the years. In my day, most children were able to swim 50 metres and were eager to race. However recently the majority of children seem only confident to compete in the novelty races. What’s changed? A recent report by the Royal Life Saving Society showed that three out of four children had quit swimming classes by age eight, long before they’d reached national safety and swimming benchmarks. Because children were leaving lessons too soon, 83 per cent of 12- year- old children couldn’t tread water for two minutes – the goal for children by the time they finish primary school – 40 per cent couldn’t swim 50 metres of freestyle or backstroke, and one third couldn’t swim 25 metres of survival strokes. In a country surrounded by water, with a lifestyle largely defined by water, this

represents a dangerous decline in swimming skills. We understand that there are a multitude of choices of sporting and after school activities for children nowadays, but swimming education has to be non- negotiable until children are fully competent in the water and meeting their swimming milestones, for safety’s sake. Whilst swimming carnivals are great fun, water and sun safety basics should be adhered to. Sunscreen is not optional and needs to be reapplied several times throughout the day. A broad rimmed hat, polo shirt and zinc in their house colour is ideal for further sun protection. Food, lots of water, and two towels (one to use and one to sit on) are always handy, as is a waterproof bag to bring everything home. Always follow the instructions of the race official, and only enter the water when instructed to do so. And remember, hair sprayed in house colour/s may look great, but you probably won’t be allowed in the pool! Encourage your child to take the plunge – a high student participation rate makes for a fun day for all! Good luck to all and race well, and if

your children are not yet in swimming lessons, make this your year to start their swimming journey! If your child loves to race, why not consider joining a swim club? The Nepean Aquatic Centre

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History, beauty and wonder combine in the beautiful Austrian city of Salzburg T

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

TRAVEL

here are cities that never sleep but, more importantly, Salzburg is one that never loses its rich historical and picture postcard

SALZBURG Words John Newton Photo John Newton More Info www.salzburg.info

lure. Mozart may have left his mark on Salzburg forever, but Austria’s fourth largest city has other claims to fame – from mindboggling palaces and opulent baroque buildings to chocolates and sachertorte. Without doubt, the standout monument is the baroque masterpiece – Hohensalzburg Fortress – which towers high above the city with 360-degree panoramic views over the city rooftops, surrounding mountains and Salzach River, which splits the old and new town landmarks. Dating back to the 11th century, the fortress is one of Europe’s largest fortifications and overlooks Mozart’s birthplace in the old historic city centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Hohensalzurg and many other famous landmarks in and around Salzburg, such as the immaculate Mirabell Gardens (pictured bottom right) in which 100,000 flowers – including 10,000 roses a year are planted, was prominent in the

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC IS STILL EVERGREEN TODAY” movie ‘The Sound of Music’. The story of Baron Georg von Trapp’s aristocratic Austrian family, the film alone represents a major reason for 40 per cent of tourists visiting Salzburg. And ‘The Sound of Music’ is still evergreen today. The musical version, a German - language production, has become the longest running in the history of the Salzburger Landestheatre. Between 70 to 80 per cent of visitors to Salzburg cite “an interest in culture and music” as the main focus of their stay. In Getreidegasse, you’ll find the ‘Sound of Music World Exhibition’, which features the true story of the Trapp family. And if you’ve bought a Salzburg Card loaded with city discounts, the exhibition is free.

Salzburg’s amalgamated DomQuartier, opened to visitors in 2014, is a unique cultural highlight in the heart of the city, with 2000 exhibits covering 1300 years of political domination, art, music and architecture. And to see the magnificent state rooms in all their historical glory, you’ll need to set aside plenty of time to do an in-depth round tour. Among other things, the DomQuartier tour takes you through the state rooms of the Residenz, the former official residence and centre of power of the Salzburg prince- archbishops who, more than 400 years ago, began to transform the old town centre into an Italian-style baroque gem. Without doubt, the busiest shops in Salzburg are arguably the most famous. At

the four Furst shops you’ll find the world famous Salzburger Mozartkugel – the original hand- made chocolate created in 1890 by local confectioner, Paul Furst, whose great, great, grandson, Martin, now runs the business with his wife, Doris. The Makartsteg Bridge over Salzburg’s Salzach River in the city centre is one full of love – love locks to be precise (pictured top right). There’s much more to see and do in Salzburg than seek out anything Mozart, the city’s museums and galleries or its music, theatre and dance venues. You can take in: Salzburg’s churches, go on a ‘Creative Walk’, a ‘City hiking’ tour – or for thirsty tourists, a tour of the city’s breweries and beer taverns.

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SPORT

CYCLING

All smiles at positive results p.59

Jessica Fox has had a golden start to the international canoe slalom season. Photo: Jamie Troughton / Dscribe Media.

Fox sparkles in Auckland NATHAN TAYLOR

ix months out from the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Leonay paddler Jessica Fox has kicked off the international season in style, winning back to back gold at the 2020 Oceania Canoe Slalom Championships in Auckland. The 25-year-old local was in fine form last weekend, taking home gold in the women’s C1 and K1 events. Fox, who has more individual World Championships titles than any other canoe slalom paddler in history, showed her class once again when she was crowned victor of the women’s K1

over New Zealand’s Rio Olympic silver medallist and fierce rival Luuka Jones. Fox posted a faultless 102.14 seconds, just 0.49 seconds ahead of Jones. Fortunately for spectators, the rivalry between Fox and Jones would be on show the very next day when the pair went head to head in the women’s C1. Fox put in another clean run winning in a time of 107.52 seconds – 5.08 seconds clear of Andorra’s Monica Doria Vilarrubla in second with Jones in third. “It was one of those runs that felt like a battle that I fought hard, the boat was running and I pulled off the moves that I was trying to do so I’m really stoked with that run,” Fox said after the race.

“Yesterday I had a pretty good run as well and was absolutely exhausted, so I was pretty happy to come back today and put down some good runs.” Fox, who has already secured her Tokyo 2020 Australian Olympic Team spot in both the women’s K1 and C1 events, relished the chance to cross the Tasman and compete against New Zealand’s top canoe slalom paddler. Fox said she made the most of the event to train and try a few things without having to worry about selections. “It’s been a good block training here and good racing. It’s a little bit different this time around because I gained Olympic selection last year at the World

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the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

CYCLING

Cycling club’s impressive start to the year in Ballarat NATHAN TAYLOR

t’s been a sensational start to the new decade for the Penrith Cycling Club after they returned home from Victoria with a swag of gold medals. Last month, the local club sent several riders across the border to compete in the prestigious and highly competitive Road National Championships in Ballarat. Penrith were hugely successful in several race categories, with Olympian and longtime club member Amanda Spratt finishing first in the Elite Women’s event. The 32-year-old, who was born in Penrith and is set to compete in Tokyo later this year, claimed victory in the 104.4km race in just under three hours. Also doing Penrith proud were Paul Eberle, Eddie Salas, Peter Milostic and Peter Wakefield, who were crowned champions of the Men’s Team Trial event. The awesome foursome combined to beat out six other teams to win in a time of 44:19.5. Proving age is no barrier, veteran Penrith cyclist Piet Van Gurp won the Gran Fondo National Championships in the 70-74 age category. He finished the lengthy race in a time of 1:26:69.

Speaking with the Weekender, Penrith Cycling Club Secretary Danielle DonWakefield said it was a tremendous effort by a good bunch of hardworking and dedicated athletes. “Apart from our Olympian Amanda Spratt, the rest of the winners are just your average, everyday people who have done exceptionally well,” she said. “These people are fathers, they work full-time jobs, and they’ve still been able to achieve these results. “It really just proves that anyone can achieve great things if they apply themselves.” Don- Wakefield said the victory by one of the club’s oldest members was particularly impressive. “One of our riders who is absolutely amazing is Piet Van Gurp,” she said. “This man is in his 70s and recently broke his wrist in a bad accident. “For him to get back and compete at this level and win was a huge achievement for him.” The Penrith Cycling Club, which comprises of nearly 300 dedicated members, race weekly at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith as well as Sydney Motorsport Park at Eastern Creek.

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Gran Fondo winner Piet Van Gurp.

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Story continued from » p. 64 Speaking with the Weekender, Hetherington said he wanted to put the past behind him and focus all his energy into a big year ahead. “I’m feeling really good now and I’m really excited for the year,” he said. “This year compared to last year is completely different. I’m in a really good headspace and I’m very excited to rip in injury-free.” The son of Raiders great Brett Hetherington and grandson of Roosters legend Bill Mullins wasn’t comfortable going into too much detail about the last 12 months, but he wanted to assure Penrith fans that he’s finally in a good place. “Last year was a weird one for me, I was in a bad place physically and mentally… it was a real difficult year for me,” Hetherington admitted. “Last year is water under the bridge for me though, I’m not even looking at last year at all. I’m just excited to be part of the 17, no matter where I am. I’m just keen to rip in to 2020 and win some games.” Hetherington credited the Panthers medical and welfare team for being patient with him last year. “I’ve got a really good support base here at Penrith, the welfare department and the coaches helped a lot with my mental stuff,” he said.

SOCCER

Wanderers revived Now the real test comes against high-flying Sydney FC NATHAN TAYLOR

he Western Sydney Wanderers are the only team to defeat A-League powerhouse Sydney FC this season, and they’ll need to do it again tomorrow night if they’re to keep their playoff chances alive. Since both sides last met on October 26, a lot has changed. The Wanderers have moved on a couple of players as well as a coach, while Sydney FC have powered up the A- League ladder and look virtually unstoppable. If Western Sydney are to hand the Sky Blues just their second loss of the year, they’ll need to put in another strong effort much like they did last Sunday against Central Coast. Under interim coach Jean- Paul de Marigny, the Wanderers returned to the winner’s circle and moved to within four points of the top six with a solid 3-1 over the Mariners in Gosford. Man of the match Nicolai Muller, skipper Mitch Duke and new signing Simon Cox collected goals as the Wanderers gave de Marigny a dream start to his

Mitch Duke against Sydney FC last year.

interim coach role. Speaking after the match, de Marigny said his Wanderers coaching debut was very memorable. “I really enjoyed it,” he declared. “I enjoyed the boys’ performance. I enjoyed the way they moved the ball. I enjoyed how they had the freedom to express themselves within the structure. “It just shows they started to really open up and that was very pleasing for us to see.” Another pleasing aspect was the performance of Cox in his Western Sydney debut. It was the Irishman’s first game in Wanderers colours after arriving at the club days prior to the sacking of Markus Babbel. de Marigny said it was great to see the 32-year-old get a goal in his first game. “I’m really happy for him, he has a real high quality that’s going to help us a lot. He’s been working hard since he’s arrived and got his just rewards,” he said. “Simon’s still got a bit to do but he’ll only get better and stronger. He’s going to really affect the group in a positive way.” The Wanderers will take on Sydney FC this Saturday evening in Kogarah.

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Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

Hetherington ready for massive season

Skating to bronze medal Local synchronised figure skating team does Penrith proud on international stage

talented team of synchronised figure skaters from Penrith have returned home from Croatia with their first international medal after competing at the 16th Zagreb Snowflakes Trophy last month. The team of 16, who train regularly at Penrith Ice Palace in Jamisontown, secured bronze for Australia in a contest that went down to the wire. Australia went up against two teams from Italy as well as a team from Croatia, with a mere three points separating first and third place in the Mixed Age – Free Skating category. The two Italian teams – Frost Fairies and Ice Diamonds – finished in first and second place with 52.23 points and 51.21 points respectively, while the Australian team – Southern Sky – came third with 49.62 points. The Croatian team unfortunately failed to fire in front of their home fans recording just 20.91 points. Southern Sky coach Christine Leghorn said hours upon hours of preparation

Local synchronised skating team Southern Sky have won bronze in Croatia.

ATE D W NE

went into her team’s routine, and it all paid off. “To prepare for this competition we had an intense training schedule at Penrith in the first two weeks of January as well as the three days when we arrived in Croatia prior to competition day,” she said. “In the end there wasn’t much separating the first three teams.” Synchronised figure skating is becoming an increasingly popular sport in Australia, with local company Southern Sky Synchronized comprising of approximately 100 skaters across eight different age divisions. Southern Sky Synchronized are always on the hunt for new skaters, with training for beginners held each Sunday afternoon. “We created our company with the purpose of developing skaters from early ages to have the opportunity to represent Australia,” Leghorn said. Meanwhile, Southern Sky’s recent success in Croatia comes off the back of a solid effort whilst competing in The Netherlands last December. Southern Sky Advanced Novice team represented Australia at the Lumiere Cup and ended up finishing in sixth place.

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NATHAN TAYLOR

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

FIGURE SKATING

Friday, February 7, 2020 « the western weekender

AFLW

From the classroom to the footy field NATHAN TAYLOR

ast year Georgia Garnett was a spectator watching the GWS Giants play in the flourishing AFLW competition, this year she’ll be joining them on the field as a player. It’s certainly been a huge 12 months for the western Sydney local, not only did she complete her HSC with flying colours but her promising AFL career also took off after she was selected by the Giants at the 2019 AFLW Draft. While many of her school friends were preparing for university or full-time work during the recent summer holidays, Garnett was busy training in ridiculously hot temperatures as a professional sportswoman. Speaking with the Weekender ahead of the AFLW season, the 18- year- old said it’s been a wild but enjoyable past few months. “It’s been pretty good, the girls and coaches have made it easy for me to come in and do what I have to do,” Garnett said. “It’s been quite hard at times physically but honestly it hasn’t been too bad. “We’ve all worked hard this pre- season and the girls are connected. There’s a few

nerves around but we’re all keen for Saturday’s opening match against the Suns.” A sporty girl growing up, Garnett has only been playing AFL for the past four years after her father – a huge footy fan – encouraged her to get involved. Since then she’s gone on to play at the last three AFLW U18 Championships for NSW/ACT and played a key role in the East Coast Eagles’ push to the AFL Sydney Grand Final. While Garnett is currently overcoming an adductor strain injury, she is hopeful of making her AFLW debut for the Giants in the coming weeks. “I’ve been a bit injured lately and have been out the past four weeks, but opportunities come along during the course of the season,” Garnett said. “It’ll be tough getting in the team but I’ll give it a good crack and see where it takes me.” The AFLW has gone from strength to strength since its debut back in 2017. This year four more teams will join the fold, bringing the total number of clubs battling it out to 14. The Giants are yet to make the postseason in three attempts, but Garnett believes this could be the year they buck that trend.

Georgia Garnett hopes to make her AFLW debut with the Giants this season.

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CRICKET: Penrith have a huge total to chase against Bankstown in Round 12 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Bankstown Oval, the home side won the toss and elected to bat first. Bankstown put on a clinic with the bat, recording 5/309 before stumps. Henry Railz was the best of the bowlers for Penrith taking 2/46. Penrith will attempt to chase down Bankstown’s massive total when play resumes this Saturday morning at Bankstown Oval.

their plans for the upcoming rugby season. As approved by the Sydney Rugby Union, Penrith will field a Sevens team, a senior men’s team, a premier U20s team and a women’s team this season. Training for all groups will take place at Nepean Rugby Park in Cranebrook on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm. The club says players are still needed for all programs. For more information, call 0412 661 655 or email info@penrithrugby.com.

CRICKET: Round 14 of the Nepean District Cricket Association was impacted by the heat rule last weekend. In first grade, as no play was possible, Panthers’ match against Emu Plains was deemed in a draw. In third grade, Panthers 10/131 drew with Glenbrook Blaxland 0/26. In sixth grade, Panthers 10/69 defeated Glenmore Park 8/51 on run rate. In ninth grade, Panthers enjoyed the bye. The final round, Round 15, will be played over the next two weekends to determine the teams that make this year’s semi-finals.

TENNIS: The Nepean District Tennis Association (NDTA) are starting a new FAST4 competition this year at Woodriff Gardens Tennis Complex and are on the hunt for more participants. The NDTA say the upcoming competition will feature a brand new format and will allow players to choose their own match times. For more information, call 4721 2880.

BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers first grade team have lost both games against Cronulla in Round 15 of the NSW State Baseball League competition. In the mid-week game Penrith went down to Cronulla 8-4, while in the weekend match Penrith were blown away by the Sharks 15-0. Penrith have the bye in Round 16. RUGBY UNION: The Penrith Emus have released more information about

BULL RIDING: Top level bull riding will be coming to Penrith Paceway on Saturday, March 21 at 7pm. The toughest and best bull riders from across the country will battle it out when the 2020 Xtreme Bulls Australia Tour comes to town. Tickets are $33.70 and will be available at the gate or via the OzTix website. To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/westernweekender or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

the western weekender » Friday, February 7, 2020

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e’s been dubbed Penrith’s “forgotten man” but 2018 Panthers Rookie of the Year Jack Hetherington is determined to return to prominence again this season. After bursting onto the scene two years ago with a standout debut year, Hetherington seemingly had the world at his feet. The prop’s career was predicted to surge in 2019 but that never eventuated after a mysterious sternum injury coupled with serious mental health issues robbed him of that chance. It was a confusing time not only for Hetherington and the Panthers club, but for the entire fan-base who were left in the dark about his immediate rugby league future. Fortunately for Hetherington he eventually got the help he needed – both physically and mentally – and was able to begin the very important healing process. The 23-year-old travelled to Queensland and underwent successful surgery to repair his sternum and, in turn, was able to get his mind back on track too. Story continues on » p. 60

Jack Hetherington hopes to return to the NRL in 2020.

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