Western Weekender August 18 2023

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Urgent Care Clinic to help ease pressure on Nepean Hospital

Penrith’s promised Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) was officially opened by the Federal Government this week.

Macquarie MP Susan Templeman opened the facility in Jamisontown on Monday.

“It’s fantastic to be here today to open the Urgent Care Clinic,” she said.

“It’s really exciting as the Albanese government is committed to making sure people can have affordable access to healthcare.”

Our Medical Penrith in Jamisontown will accept walk-ins from 8am to 8pm, 365 days a year, for treatment of minor illnesses and injuries that can’t wait for your usual GP.

Wentworth Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, has commissioned Cornerstone Health to establish the Clinic, which is just off the M4 Motorway.

Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Lizz Reay, said that the new service offers an additional layer of healthcare support, bridging the gap

between primary and acute care for patients, by providing an alternative to presenting to the emergency department when a GP isn’t available.

But she also stressed that UCCs did not replace the need for people to have a regular GP, who should

always be the first point of contact if they are available.

“The Urgent Care Clinic will provide additional and timely access to healthcare, without the need for an appointment, for those with urgent but not life-threatening illnesses or injuries, leaving Emer-

gency Departments for those who need it most,” Reay said. Templeman, who attended the opening on behalf of Health Minister Mark Butler, said patients will be able to receive bulk billed treatment for things like wounds, burns, fractures and infections.

She also said the Federal Government is supporting GPs to upskill as part of their commitment to make it easier for people to get treatment at a general practice.

“We heard this morning that the first patient had an injury to their hand that normally they would have headed to the Emergency Department at Nepean for, but because of the higher level of care here they were able to be treated,” she said.

“The first patient instead of waiting maybe up to 10 hours in Emergency was seen within an hour and treated within an hour.”

Butler said the opening of the Urgent Care Clinic in Penrith delivered on an election commitment to western Sydney.

“We’ve worked closely with the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network and New South Wales Government to ensure the Medicare UCCs align with local health services and the needs of communities across the state,” he said.

“The Penrith Medicare UCC is just another way the government is strengthening Medicare and making it easier to see a doctor.”

Urgent Care Nurse Lerinda Gale, Urgent Care GP Peyman Rasipouroskouie, Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman and Cornerstone Health CEO Henry Bateman at the opening of Penrith’s Urgent Care Clinic on Monday. Photo: Megan Dunn.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

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The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Iturned 40 last month, which depending on who you talk to is either really old or still spring-in-your-step young.

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

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I chose not to be overly concerned or daunted by the number though, knowing there’s plenty of people who would have loved nothing more than to reach that milestone. Life can be short, and cruel.

Friends and family were generous with gifts, which I appreciate, but it was the present I gave myself that was perhaps the greatest of all; albeit some of it required taking my clothes off.

Get your mind out of there.

I decided that turning 40 meant it was time for an all-round health check.

Being a bloke, the stereotype generally fits pretty well as far as visiting the doctor is concerned. For some reason, we just don’t do it enough.

First step was a skin check at Medeco on High Street – my first in a good five or six years, and the scene of the aforementioned clothes removal.

All clear there – come back in two years, and keep up the slip, slop, slap routine.

It’s a check-up you shouldn’t ignore, especially if you work in the sun or spend plenty of time outdoors. A friend around my age was recently diagnosed with melanoma at a routine skin check, which very likely saved her life.

Next on the list was a visit to my GP. All the usual blood tests, urine tests and everything else you get at this new milestone age.

Not surprisingly, he told me to lose 20kgs. The only thing that has changed about that message over the years is the size of the number.

I argued that I’m just ‘fit fat’ given I do put myself through the joys of F45 most mornings of the week, but he’s probably right – the Magnum ice creams and Maltesers Gold (seriously, how good are they) are probably cancelling that out.

I had the last laugh though: all looking good with the series of tests. The relief when you get that news is like nothing else, even if you didn’t go there with any symptoms or particular reason to worry.

MISSING A FATHER OR TRYING TO BE A BETTER DAD?

Many have found the ideas in this book helpful.

The purpose and motive to live aright can be gained now. This point won, you have started as you should. You have begun at the numeration-table of Christian Science, and nothing but wrong intention can hinder your advancement. Working and praying with true motives, your Father will open the way.(SH 326:16–21)

Next up was an ultrasound, one thing I do undertake pretty religiously after my father died from kidney cancer in 2016.

This was my biennial check-up, given there’s some additional family background with the disease.

All clear there as well, and a great relief when you can finally get rid of those litres of water you have to drink in preparation.

Next on the list was the one that I probably dreaded the most: the dentist.

I last visited the dentist in 2012, to give you some context as to why I was concerned.

My 11-year hiatus resulted in a couple of cavities but not much else; apart from a stern word about visiting more regularly and a teeth clean about as comfortable as a whack across the head with a baseball bat.

Last on the list was a visit to the optometrist, to confirm what I already knew: I could get a job in the NRL Bunker.

Eye checks aren’t just about getting yourself a new pair of glasses, there’s plenty of other serious things that get checked during this process, making it an important part of a health check-up.

So as 40 sets in and the results have been generally good, I’ve made myself a promise: this needs to be a more regular occurrence.

Life gets in the way of these things. There’s sometimes a cost involved, and certainly a

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Dharug Connection........................36

time factor that can be draining and difficult to negotiate.

But imagine saying you don’t have time to check your health only to find out later that the few hours it takes to do all of these things could have given you another 20 or 30 years of life, if not longer?

Sometimes, us blokes wear it as a badge of honour not going to the doctor. “I’ll go to the doctor when I’m sick,” some say.

Sometimes, we’re just scared. It’s a strange thing really; we’re worried about what the result might say so we prefer to be oblivious to what might be going on inside us.

As part of my 40th celebrations, I recently went on a short holiday to Fiji (the trip you do when you’ve got a two-year-old in tow).

In the lead-up, I was planning on putting off some of these health checks to ensure any bad news didn’t put a dampener on the holiday.

I shook some sense into myself and ended up getting the all clear before I went: something to celebrate with a margarita or three (the GP does suggest cutting those down as well, but negotiations are continuing on that front).

So if you’ve just hit a milestone birthday like me, start planning those health checks. I wouldn’t say it’s fun, but it does feel like a bit of an achievement as you start ticking them all off.

You may just give yourself the best present of all: peace of mind.

And if there is something not quite right, you’ll be forever grateful that you decided to act when you did, and not when it’s too late. What are you waiting for?

And another thing...

I was sad to hear of the recent passing of Alan Bideleux, who was heavily involved with the Cambridge Park Lions Club for many years.

Alan would regularly get in touch with the Weekender about various Lions goings-on, and was a passionate and dedicated member of the community.

I’d like to pass on my sympathies to his family and friends.

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4735 6411

“Sometimes, us blokes wear it as a badge of honour not going to the doctor”

I gave myself the best birthday gift

protest

Teachers held a rally outside Londonderry MP Prue Car’s office in St Marys on Wednesday afternoon.

The State Government and the NSW Teachers Federation remain at loggerheads over tackling the teacher shortage in New South Wales as well as teacher salaries.

The Federation claims the State Government struck and then reneged on a one year agreement to lift wages to make beginning and experienced teachers the nation’s best paid.

“It backtracked in early August by insisting on an additional three year clause capping wage movements at 2.5 per cent. This counterproductive measure undermines and erodes the first year increase,” the Federation said in a statement.

Car – who is also the Education Minister and Deputy Premier – said the government was “constantly talking” to the Federation.

“We want the same thing – that is to deliver a significant uplift in teacher salaries so that we can address the teacher shortage crisis. We need to encourage the best teachers back into the profession,” she said.

“We agree with the Teachers Federation that teachers need a pay rise now – we’ve already busted the wages cap and the agreement we’re working towards would make first year teachers the highest paid in the country.

“There is a lot we both agree on.”

Teachers outside Prue Car’s St Marys office on Wednesday.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

Hotel, conference centre

• Penrith’s first five-star hotel open for business

Conference centre set to host

Penrith’s first five-star hotel was officially unveiled last Friday, and it’s set to bring a new era to the west.

The new $110 million precinct at Panthers is also home to the Western Sydney Conference Centre (WSCC), combining business, entertainment and leisure in one destination.

With a new international airport on the way for western Sydney and billions of dollars in infrastructure projects already announced,

the state-of-the-art precinct offers travellers and delegates a central base for exploring Sydney.

Accor Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Derry, said she was thrilled to open the hotel, which combines comfort and intuitive service.

“The journey began in 2017 and the vision to put a five-star hotel on this site is truly going

to mean we have an iconic hotel and a special place for the community,” she said.

“I’d like to acknowledge Peter Graham and Brian Fletcher, as well as all Board members past and present who’ve been part of this.

“We are confident that Pullman Sydney Penrith will elevate the hospitality landscape in the region and provide an unforgettable stay for both business and leisure travellers.

“With its prime location in Penrith, guests can expect a unique experience that combines the tranquillity of the Blue Mountains with the vibrant energy of Sydney.”

In all of the 153 rooms available, guests can access a bespoke Sleep Therapy Menu on their in-room tablet that connects them with a variety of sleep services.

At the touch of a button, they can order

The rooms inside the Pullman Hotel.

Sarah Derry from Accor. Photo: Megan Dunn.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Drinks on offer at Tori Bar and Cafe.

hundreds of major events each year

everything from face masks to aromatherapy pillow sprays and an extensive pillow menu. There are also pre-programmed selections of background sounds, colours and room lighting settings to choose from to help you sleep or wake up.

Glen Erickson, General Manager of the Pullman Sydney Penrith and Western Sydney Conference Centre, said this advanced service is one of the first of its kind in Australia.

“We believe in giving people a great night’s sleep so they feel refreshed, recharged and ready for whatever

their day has in store for them. Our unique sleep therapy services offer a way for our guests to discover their best sleep yet,” he said.

Marcel Bar and Bistro with its sister lobby bar, Tori, also opened last week, bringing a new level of excellence and sophistication to western Sydney’s dining scene. Additionally, the Warami Community Centre will permanently play host to Panthers on the Prowl and WestCare.

Panthers Chairman Peter Graham acknowledged everyone

who has worked together to turn dreams into reality, before he had the honour of cutting the ribbon on the facility.

“There are many people to thank for their contribution to the development of this wonderful facility for the people of Penrith,” he said.

“Thank you to the hundreds of people who have worked so hard over decades to make this club a success on and off the playing field – always with the vision of making Panthers a powerhouse for our community.” The conference centre has a capacity for up to 1000 seats.

Pullman Sydney Penrith and Western Sydney Conference Centre.

Marcel Bar and Bistro. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Panthers Group CEO Brian Fletcher speaking at the opening.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

Sunday 3 September

8.30am-12pm

Reserve, Kingswood

Contact Us

Administration

Penrith Office

Civic Centre, 601 High Street. St Marys Office

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street. Contact Centre Open 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777 PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Services Waste Services 4732 7777

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

Graffiti Hotline Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

28 August – 7pm Online via penrith.city (Ordinary Meeting)

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Looking for the perfect gift for Dad? Join us on Sunday 3 September from 8.30am–12pm at Peppermint Reserve in Kingswood for our annual Trees for Dad event! We’ve divided the day into 30-minute sessions with registrations essential to help our Bushcare team provide enough plants for all participants.

Find out more and register at penrith.city/events

● Visual, interactive and illuminated adventures await. Real Festival returns with a spectacular program from 15–17 September. The Nepean River will be captivatingly transformed with light, sound and storytelling, featuring animated artworks by the No Boundaries Art Group and starring the Nepean Belle.

Dive into the nostalgia of a neon-lit silent disco and open air arcade, while the Roller Rink by Busways offers a 30-minute skate session (pre-booking required). And don’t miss the laughter-inducing drumming, dancing and creative recycling performances of Junkyard Beats. Markets. Food Trucks. And more to explore.

Free to attend. Head to realfestival.com.au to view the full program.

● If you’d like to grow vegetables but don’t think you have enough space, this workshop is for you.

On Wednesday, 30 August from 6–7.30pm, join our Zoom masterclass on how to grow plants successfully in pots, in a small courtyard or on a balcony. Bookings are essential at bitly.ws/RVAj

Public Notices

Public Meeting –Penrith Local Planning Panel

The Penrith Local Planning Panel will meet to determine the following:

• DA Number: DA23/0236

18 Enterprise Road Cranebrook

Demolition of existing structures, tree removal and construction of a childcare facility x 53 children with basement parking and associated works

When: Wednesday, 23 August 2023 commencing at 2pm

Where: The Penrith Local Planning Panel meeting will be conducted in a hybrid environment with opportunity to attend the meeting in person or connect online via zoom.

To attend the meeting or for an opportunity to address the Panel, please register via the Online Form at Penrith Council’s website by 4pm on Monday, 21 August 2023.

The online form can be accessed at the following web address: penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/building-development/development/ local-planning-panel/register-to-attend-speak

For any person intending to access the meeting remotely, a meeting invitation with log in details will be provided to those who have registered via the online form 28–48 hours before the scheduled meeting date.

Any person joining the online meeting are informed that the meeting will be audio recorded, and a copy of that recording will be made publicly available following the meeting.

Relevant documents will be available on Penrith Council’s website penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Local-Planning-Panel/

For further assistance please contact the Panel Management Support Officer on 4732 7447 or via email at localpanel@penrith.city

Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993 – Proposed easement on community land

Under Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to grant an easement as detailed below.

Applicant: St Marys Ventures Pty Ltd

Proposed Use: Easement for drainage of water

Description of Land: Lot 10 DP38927, 10 Mamre Road, St Marys

Term: Perpetuity

All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or council@penrith.city, within 28 of the date of this notice.

For all enquiries: Please contact Tara Braithwaite on 4732 7777 or Tara.Braithwaite@Penrith.City

TREE FOR DAD THIS FATHER’S DAY!

Mother dead, man arrested: Shock at stabbing in St Marys

TROY DODDS

Aman has been taken into custody after a woman died from stab wounds in an horrific incident at St Marys on Wednesday morning.

Police and emergency services swarmed Edmondson Avenue just after daybreak on Wednesday after reports of the stabbing.

“On arrival, officers from Nepean Police Area Command found a woman suffering stab wounds to her chest,” a Police spokesperson said.

“She was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.”

The woman has since been identified as Drew Douglas.

A 35-year-old man, her partner, was

arrested at Campbelltown Police Station about 7.30am on Wednesday and was being questioned by police.

He had not been charged by the time the Weekender went to print on Wednesday afternoon.

Police had received a call from the man, Shaun King, on Tuesday night and the police response is now subject to an investigation.

A Critical Incident Investigation has been formed.

Neighbours expressed their shock at the death of the woman, who is a mother of four children including a newborn.

“It’s very unsettling,” one man told Nine News.

“It’s not what you want to hear.”

Development Application

The following Development Application has been received by Council:

• Design Corp – Architects

60 & 62 Sydney Street, St Marys

• Clarendon Homes (Nsw) Pty Ltd

Lot 623 DP 1266411, 8 Clearview Terrace, Glenmore Park

2-storey dwelling and retaining walls

DA23/0462

Integrated Development

DA23/0659

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 9 x 2-storey town houses, tree removal, and associated works

Contact: Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726

Closing Date: 4 September 2023

Development Consent/s Determined

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

Approved Development Applications

• Swirl-Deli Pty Ltd

DA23/0524

Lot 13 DP 854875, 18 Shepherd Street, Colyton

Home-based food business (cake & desserts)

• Sharon Jones

Lot 8246 DP 1002571, 28 Windorra Avenue, Glenmore Park

DA23/0553

Alterations to existing dwelling including first floor addition

• Burbank Australia Nsw Pty Ltd

DA23/0451

Lot 21 DP 1194171, 21 Macadamia Court, Kingswood

2-storey dwelling with detached garage

• Eden Brae Holdings Pty Ltd

DA23/0520

Lot 3022 PP 1274694, 10 Steam Lane, Werrington

2-storey dwelling

• Debbie Setu

DA23/0541

Lot 3009 PP 1274694, 32 Corymbia Road, Werrington

2-storey dwelling

• Eden Brae Holdings Pty Ltd

DA23/0526

Lot 3023 PP 1274694, 12 Steam Lane, Werrington

2-storey dwelling

• Mod Urban Pty Ltd

DA23/0262

Lot 910 DP 771823, 15-17 Castlereagh Street, Penrith

• Domaine Homes

DA23/0566

Lot 1337 DP 1215097, 38 Private Circuit, Jordan Springs

2-storey dwelling

• Hi-Craft Home Improvements Pty Ltd DA23/0476

Lot 235 DP 708572, 20 Augusta Place, St Clair Carport

• Hi-Craft Home Improvements Pty Ltd DA23/0521

Lot 2 SP 105800, 21b Lucas Street, Emu Plains

Sun room enclosure of alfresco area for existing dual occupancy dwelling

• Hi-Craft Home Improvements Pty Ltd DA23/0534

Lot 33 DP 260672, 7 Hyton Place, Cranebrook Carport

• Metricon Homes Pty Ltd Mod23/0142

Lot 321 DP 270417, 10 Farmingdale Court, Luddenham Section 4.55 (1A) modification application to modify DA22/0170 – The Modification seeks to add additional retaining walls within the building footprint

• Fitzpatrick Investments Pty Ltd DA22/1080

Lot 102 DP 1268632, 68 Lockwood Road ,Erskine Park

Construction of a warehouse facility with associated offices, access and hardstand areas, car parking, civil works and landscaping

Deferred Commencement Development Application

• Oz Copper Recycling Pty Ltd DA22/0392 Lot 85 DP 31909, 19 Severn Street, St Marys Demolition of existing structures and construction of a waste or resource management facility involving compacting, sorting, storage and transportation of metal products

Penrith City Council have received Development Applications in respect of the subject properties. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council.

• Santolo Designs Pty Ltd DA23/0624

Lot 442 DP 1268480, Lot 442 Gunyah Drive, Glenmore Park

Torrens title subdivision x 7 lots & construction of terrace dwellings x 3 & semi-detached dwellings x 4 The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary office hours, in the period from Thursday, 14 August 2023 to Thursday, 28 August 2023.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA23/0626. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Hannah Vousden on 4732 7646.

Viewing of Development Applications

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

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

Police at the scene of the stabbing at St Marys on Wednesday morning.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

PAGE TEN

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

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

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LAST WEEK’S ANSWER The colourful cylinder sculpture with the Drink West and Brisket Boys logo is located at the Manufactor Precinct in North Penrith.

Spike in bottle

a

“We are currently offering what we call a tagger, which is a live mobile duress button device,” Field said.

Aspate of bottle shop break and enters could partly be blamed on the rising cost of living, according to a security expert.

Owner and Managing Director of Nepean Regional Security, Gina Field, said she is seeing a recordable rise in the number of robberies in the area.

“This time last year, I was not seeing this many break and enters,” Field told the Weekender

“There certainly has been a recordable rise in robberies in the area that I am seeing and also an influx of CCTV enquiries and duress hold button installations.

“Now, we’re attending copious amounts of break and enters, and I can only put that down to the cost of living.”

According to Field, they are now attending one a week on average. Field said there has recently been an increase in the number of snatch and grabs in the area. She also said the has been a rise in businesses from all sectors increasing security measures.

“Last month we sold four of them to retail shops and even a pizza shop with a chef that is working late.”

Field said there is a “myriad of reasons” why criminal activity may be on the rise in western Sydney, including staff shortages and changes in moralistic thinking.

She also noted that liquor stores are being frequently targeted but said it was unclear whether the offenders are consuming the alcohol or selling it.

“There is a place in Werrington that has been hit a number of times,” she told the Weekender

Field is urging offenders to stop and think about the consequences of their actions.

“Let’s just think of the staff working in these stores, the mental stress and trauma placed on them, through these robberies,” she said.

“Sadly the smaller retailers can’t afford armed hold up training or force continuum for staff.”

She is also encouraging managers to think smart.

“What we also need to take into account is that the layout of stores, do attract more robberies than others, such as highly priced spirits near exit doors, for a quick snatch and grab,” she said.

Nepean Police Area Command confirmed that there have been a number of incidents reported, but were unavailable to comment further on the issue.

If you have any information for police, call Crime Stoppers.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

COMPILED BY MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Claremont Meadows / Jamisontown: Man refused bail after scary incidents

A man will face court over a string of alleged offending in the Claremont Meadows area. Between Wednesday, August 2 2023 and Thursday, August 10 2023 numerous offences have occurred in the Claremont Meadows area.

It is alleged a 19-year-old Doonside man has attended an address on Orange Ave, Claremont Meadows on Wednesday, August 2.

At the time he was allegedly wearing a face covering, dressed all in black and holding a large knife.

It is alleged he attended the front door of the premises at 12.18am and tried to open it.

This door was locked, and the man was allegedly seen walking away on CCTV footage.

The man continued through the suburb and attended an address on Toomung Circuit, where he allegedly entered two vehicles and rummaged through them looking for property to steal.

It is then alleged he has attended a house in with another man, who attempted to enter this address using a pair of scissors.

After an unsuccessful attempt the pair walked away.

The 19-year-old man has attended Gagoor Close, Claremont Meadows where it is alleged, he has entered another vehicle.

About 2am he allegedly entered a house on the same street.

He entered the house through an unlocked rear door and moved through the premises collecting items such as car keys and bank cards.

The man went into the garage attempted to pull the manual release rope on the garage door and it is alleged CCTV has the man holding a black handgun at the time.

The occupants at this location were woken by the noise and located a man in their room, who fled the scene.

On Thursday, August 10, it is alleged the 19-year-old attended at home in Jamisontown, about 12.00am.

It is alleged he was holding a knife and a torch in the same hand and attempted to enter a house, but the door was locked.

It is also alleged he accessed a vehicle on the same street, which was again captured on CCTV.

The above matters were reported to Police at the time and an investigation was commenced.

About 1pm on August 10, the 19-year-old

was identified. The man was located and arrested.

He was charged and refused bail to appear in Penrith Local Court on October 6.

St Marys: Man charged after worker spots alleged crim up to no good

A man has been charged after he was caught trespassing in St Marys.

About 7.15am on Friday, August 11, a man left his work address on Valance Street.

At the time he has seen another man walk into the site.

It is alleged a 22-year-old Lethbridge Park man walked up to a motor vehicle and started to look around.

The worker that was leaving saw him and reversed back into the driveway.

He got out of his car and noticed that a window of a nearby vehicle was smashed, and the 22-year-old was now sitting in the vehicle, and allegedly tampering with the wires.

The worker has yelled at the 22-year-old, and it is alleged he has got out of the vehicle but fell over and proceeded to lay on the ground for a short time before getting up and walking from the site.

Police were contacted and the man allegedly returned to the work site and sat in the same vehicle as before.

Police attended and arrested the man who was charged to appear in Penrith Local Court on September 22.

Penrith: Man busted with stolen clothes and illegal sling shot

A man has been charged after he was caught shoplifting in Penrith.

About 1pm on Sunday, August 13, it is alleged a 36-year-old Thurgoona man entered a sports store in a large shopping centre on High Street.

It is alleged whilst in the store he was seen to pick up a pair of gloves and a vest and walk from the store without paying for the items.

Shortly after, he allegedly entered a menswear store nearby, where he had picked up a biker type jacket, put it on and walked from the store wearing the jacket without paying for it.

Police at the time were already at the location and were approached by security.

They have located the man and arrested him. He was searched and it is alleged he admitted to stealing the clothing. Police also found a sling shot in his bag.

He will appear in court next month.

A big part of what we do at Complete Legal & Conveyancing is helping people start, acquire, or dispose of businesses.

We get a lot of satisfaction from helping people turn their dream into a reality becoming their own boss or building their business into a saleable product and selling it to someone else to take it into the next generation.

One of the important things to think about if you are buying or selling a business is the structure of the transaction.

There are essentially three ways to buy a business, depending on the structure or entity in which the assets of the business are held.

Company acquisition

More and more these days businesses are run through company structures.

A company is a legal entity unto itself. It can enter into contracts, borrow and lend money, sue and be sued.

Lots of people set up companies to run their businesses through and/or only assets of their business.

Therefore, buying the entire company which owns all of the assets and goodwill of a business is a fairly straightforward way of buying or selling.

The upside is convenience, both with respect to the documents that are needed to facilitate the transaction and also because you do not need to sign new contracts or assign customer accounts or anything of that nature to a new entity.

The downside is that when you acquire a company, you acquire it with all of its baggage.

It is therefore critically important that you conduct a financial due diligence on any company you are seeking to acquire to ensure that there are no unknown debts like taxation liabilities or employee entitlements that have not been paid floating around.

Business sale by way of Business Sale Agreement

This kind of transaction involves you purchasing all of the elements of a business necessary to continue to run it without actu-

ally buying the shares in a private company/ entity.

A Business Sale Agreement will usually set out that the buyer acquires things like any registered business name, contact details, client lists, goodwill and fixed assets.

This is in theory a safer way to purchase a business from a buyer’s perspective because there is no risk that there are any liabilities attaching to a company that will follow the buyer into the future (provided that you check that if the business sale incorporates any assets that are capable of being used as security there are no registered security interests on the personal property security register).

Asset sale

with Daniel McKinnon WW51579

This kind of transaction usually entails the acquisition of assets only and no goodwill, contact details, social media handles, or anything of that nature.

An example might be an earthmoving business that has no existing contracts, no ongoing projects but has a fleet of earthmoving equipment.

For someone who wants to start and earthmoving business or has an existing business but needs more equipment this might be a suitable structure to simply acquire the equipment on its own with no bells and whistles.

These are the main ways to buy or sell a business.

Irrespective of which way you go, you should seek the advice of an accountant.

You need to be aware of things like whether or not GST is payable in relation to the transaction, if you are selling a business or asset whether there will be any capital gains tax liabilities and a range of other things like outstanding tax debts or employee entitlements if there are transferring employees and/or a company structure that is a part of the transaction.

If you need help buying or selling a business contact us for an obligation-free telephone consultation to get things started for you.

See the ad below for all our contact information.

READ ALL ABOUT US

A new Montessori childcare centre has officially opened its doors at 4 Chamberlain Road, Guildford NSW 2161

Binet Homes newest luxury display home grand opening weekend!

Saturday & Sunday 19 and 20 August 11am – 4pm

Guildford Montessori Academy provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged six weeks to six years old and is designed to help children foster a life-long love for learning.

Acquired in January 2023 and newly fit-out in recent months, this is Montessori Academy Group’s 50th Australian childcare centre.

The beautifully refurbished centre features four classrooms equipped with a full suite of Montessori materials, two magnificent play areas with an epic plane fort, sandpits, and climbing equipment to engage children’s curiosity and potential.

“We are thrilled to open our doors to the families in Guildford and surrounding areas,” said Montessori Academy Group’s Chief Operations Officer, Rami Nassif.

Welcome to Binet Homes’ newest luxury display home grand opening weekend! We are thrilled to invite you to explore our stunning masterpiece located at 6 Alcorn Place in Pitt Town. This exceptional property showcases the epitome of elegance, sophistication, and country-style charm. From gourmet kitchens and modern bathrooms to spacious family rooms and a grand alfresco area, this home has been meticulously designed with your comfort and style in mind. With its separate studio, tennis

court, swimming pool, large bedrooms, home theatre, and fully landscaped gardens - this is truly a dream come true for any discerning homeowner. Mark your calendars for Saturday & Sunday 19th and 20th August as we unveil this magnificent residence during our exclusive Grand Opening Schedule. Be prepared to be amazed as you step into a world of timeless beauty blended seamlessly with contemporary features.

Location

Nestled in the picturesque suburb of Pitt Town, Binet Homes’ newest luxury display home is perfectly situated to

“Our goal is to provide a nurturing environment where children can develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in life. We believe that

6 Alcorn Place Pitt Town,

7:30am to 6:00pm, Monday to Friday. Families who are interested in enrolling their children at the centre are invited to attend the Grand Opening Event on Saturday 20th May 2023 or contact their Enrolments Team on 1300 000 162.

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offer you a serene and idyllic lifestyle. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, this exquisite residence offers both tranquillity and convenience. With easy access to nearby amenities such as schools, shops, and recreational facilities, everything you need is just a stone’s throw away.

Design

Design is at the heart of every Binet Homes display home, and their newest luxury display home in Pitt Town is no exception. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the attention to detail and modern aesthetic that flows throughout. Spacious

family rooms provide ample space for quality time with loved ones, while the grand alfresco area seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living spaces, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a peaceful evening under the stars. For more information about Binet Homes’ newest luxury display home or to schedule an appointment outside of the grand opening weekend contact them today at 9868 3222. You won’t be disappointed!

Grand Opening Schedule

The grand opening schedule promises a weekend filled with excitement. The doors will open promptly at 11:00 am on

both days, giving visitors ample time to explore every exquisite detail of this stunning property. Whether you’re in the market for a new home or simply seeking inspiration, this event caters to everyone. Mark your calendars now because this is an event you won’t want to miss! To find out more information about Binet Homes’ newest luxury display home at 6 Alcorn Place Pitt Town or book your spot for their grand opening weekend on Saturday & Sunday 19th and 20th August (11:00 am -4:00 pm), visit their website www.binethomes.com. au or contact them directly at info@binethomes.com.au

Support in a time of need

As the homelessness crisis worsens, Christ Mission Possible is providing food and housing solutions to needy people in the Penrith area.

Last year, Christ Mission Possible partnered with the Department of Communities and Justice and provided over 60,000 bed nights to tenants who needed a safe and secure place to lay their head.

Now they are in the process of doubling the amount of crisis accommodation available to those who have fallen on hard times.

Christ Mission Possible CEO Martin Beckett said the number of people experiencing first generation homelessness has grown astronomically in western Sydney.

“We have a large homeless accommodation crisis facility in Penrith,” he said.

“I think more now than ever, what we’re seeing is people that everyday folk are coming through our doors.”

According to Beckett, skyrocketing rents are only adding to the cost-of-living crisis.

He said he is seeing a rise in ‘working homeless’ because employed people are also finding it challenging to access mainstream independent housing.

“What we’re seeing at the moment is mums and dads, even working homeless, who just can’t afford rent and bills,” Beckett said.

“We’re seeing a lot more families coming through, and people who have never experienced homelessness. It’s something which is getting worse as rents go up.”

Through their accommodation program, Christ Mission Possible helps their clients become independent and work towards their long-term housing goals.

Beckett said they help people and families who are committed to getting themselves out of a crisis situation.

As part of this, they provide temporary housing for up to a month then help clients get into their own homes.

“You’ve got to help those people and walk that journey with them as they establish themselves back in the rental market or get a job,” he said.

“A lot of them are blacklisted from properties because they didn’t pay their rent because they couldn’t afford it.

“So we have to rent the place for them, and give them tenancy support.”

According to Beckett, they are tackling the stereotypes surrounding homelessness.

“We take everyone at face value,” Beckett said.

“Our accommodation is set up so it feels

homely… they’ve got bathrooms and everything in them and they can actually have their own privacy.

“What we try to do is make them feel as welcome as we can because it’s not often it’s not their fault that they’re homeless.”

Beckett emphasised the importance of giving homeless people “a bit of dignity”, saying it is extremely “rewarding” to be able to help people “get back on their feet”.

“We wanted to bring a bit of a spotlight on homelessness,” he said.

“There is this problem, but there’s also a charity in the local area responding to that.”

Newly renovated and ready to move in. Retirement Units from $380,000.

At Cardinal Gilroy Village, our refurbished units offer comfortable seniors living with on-site community facilities, social event programs, and transport links with proximity to Merrylands and Parramatta. These bright and airy apartments are spacious and well-appointed, featuring generously proportioned rooms, modern kitchens, ensuite bathrooms, plenty of built-in storage and access to the outdoors.

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

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“Astronomical” increase in first generation homelessness, local charity says

Crisis accommodation in Penrith. Photo: Megan Dunn. Martin Beckett and Michelle Epati from Christ Mission Possible.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

GPs back new dispensing policy as pharmacists warn of dangers

The Nepean GP Network has thrown its support behind the Federal Government’s controversial 60 Day Dispensing policy.

60 Day Dispensing has been adopted in the Senate with Stage 1 commencing on September 1 for just under 100 medications on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

This will mean that patients with chronic disease can have 60 days’ worth of medication dispensed for a single dispensing fee, saving the Federal Government approximately $1.2 billion over the next four years.

Co-Chair of the Nepean GP Network Health Consumer Advisory Committee, Joe Rzepecki said it’s a win for customers.

“Consumers will benefit from 60 Day Dispensing, keeping money in their wallets and saving them time,” he said.

“This has a ripple effect through the whole health system. It frees up more appointments with GPs which will mean that patients are more likely to be able to manage their condition with their GP instead of having to go to the Emergency Department if their chronic disease gets out of hand.”

The Federal Government has announced that the savings gained will

M7-M12 Integration Project

You’re invited to a community fun day!

Mark your calendars for a day of free food, coffee, kids' entertainment, and live music to celebrate the commencement of construction on the M7-M12 Integration Project.

When: Saturday 26 August 2023

Time: 10am – 1pm

Where: The Amphitheatre, Lizard Log Park Western Sydney Parklands

What’s on: Enjoy a free BBQ, coffee, soft drinks, and kids’ entertainment including face painting, games and music (This is an alcohol-free event)

How to get there: We encourage you to walk, cycle or take public transport. Limited parking is available. A free bus will depart Fairfield Station between 9:45am and 1:15pm every 40 minutes.

Please RSVP to CommunityEvents@transurban.com.

For more information If you have any questions or would like more information please contact our project team: nswroads.work/M12

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to call us on 1800 712 712

be invested into community pharmacies.

“Community pharmacies provide a much-needed service, especially in more rural areas where access to a GP isn’t always possible,” Rzepecki said.

The initiative has not been welcomed by pharmacies, who say 60 Day Dispensing will have a “deep and negative” impact on local chemists.

Representative for the Community and Pharmacy Support Group (CAPS) Emil Demyane said that pharmacists want to be able to deliver cheaper medicine for all Australians but without closing down pharmacies and “robbing people of essential services”.

“We ask that the government pause the 60 Day Dispensing until a new Community Pharmacy Agreement can be implemented,” he said.

“A better solution would be for the government to halve the co-payment cost so every citizen of the country has a fair go. A policy that helps a few Australians, is funded by their fellow citizens, and destroys a respected profession is definitely not a fair policy.

“As it stands, the only way for pharmacies to survive the cuts will be to charge for currently free services, reduce staff levels and open fewer hours.”

Local tourism a hot topic

Networking event to discuss how Penrith can benefit from influx of

Tourism-interested businesses, agents, stakeholders and investors in Penrith, the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Wollondilly and Western Sydney International Airport region are set to attend a combined networking event to connect and discuss the future on August 23.

Hosted by Blue Mountains Tourism in partnership with Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Talking Tourism in Western Sydney event will be held at Panthers Leagues Club.

The main aim is to initiate discussion between businesses large and small as the region prepares for the opening of the new Western Sydney International Airport at the end of 2026.

Blue Mountains Tourism President Jason Cronshaw said: “Our visitors don’t notice – or care about – council boundaries.”

“They’re here on holiday for a certain time with a certain budget and certain interests and just want to have fun,” he added.

“We’ve got to work out ways to attract them far and wide throughout the region and make

new visitors

it easy for them to get to us or they will filter off elsewhere.”

Penrith Chamber President Richard Fox said the region is changing and millions of new visitors would arrive thanks to the new airport.

“We’ll have people visiting us for leisure but also business, education, sport and even health,” he said.

“The councils and NSW and Australian Governments are building the infrastructure, but it’s up to business to build the products and relationships that fully take advantage of the opportunity we have been gifted.

“No matter what industry you’re in, tourism is now everybody’s business and we’re stronger together.”

The Talking Tourism for Western Sydney event will be held at Panthers World of Entertainment from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on Wednesday, August 23.

Tickets $49 include drink on arrival, grazing plates, connections and live music.

Visit www.penrithchamber.org. au for more details or to purchase tickets.

Have your say on launch decks

Residents are invited to have their say on Penrith City Council’s proposal to build two new kayak launch decks on the Nepean River.

“The new launch decks planned for River Road (Leonay) and Factory Road Reserve (Regentville), will

improve access to the Nepean River and encourage people of all ages to experience and enjoy on-water activities,” a spokesperson said.

“The launch decks are a result of community feedback to Council’s Our River Masterplan (2013) which was used to advocate for funding to deliver projects that improve the community’s access and enjoyment of the Nepean River.”

According to Council, the new kayak launch decks will make it safer and easier for people of all ages and abilities to launch kayaks and other passive watercraft on the river and create opportunities for people to access the water on both sides. The proposal also includes plans for access paths connecting the car park down to the water’s edge, a viewing deck, bench seating

and landscaping at Factory Road Reserve and the planting of new trees along the embankment in Leonay.

Council previously heard that improving access for fishing and other recreational activities was a priority, and the two new kayak launch decks will be another step towards realising their vision. Construction is expected to start

in September, with the project expected to be complete in November 2023.

The community can provide feedback on the concept designs by completing a short survey or emailing Nicole Barton at nicole.barton@ penrith.city.

For more information, visit www. yoursaypenrith.com.au/launchdecks.

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce President, Richard Fox. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The design of the proposed launch deck on River Road. Concept designs for the project at Factory Road Reserve.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Funeral Services in Sydney

Aformer Penrith accountant accused of defrauding clients to fund his gambling habit has been granted bail.

37-year-old Benjamin Carter made a fresh bid for bail on Wednesday after it was refused by a magistrate at Penrith Local Court last month. He appeared at the Supreme Court of New South Wales via video link, watching the proceedings from a suite at Long Bay Correctional Centre where he has been remanded in protective custody.

He sat stoically in his prison greens during the hearing but broke down in tears after Justice Deborah Sweeney handed down her decision.

Carter was arrested at his Silverdale home last month and subsequently charged with 16 offences including 14 counts of ‘dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception’, and one count each of ‘knowingly deal with proceeds of crime’ and ‘possess prohibited drug’.

During search warrants executed

at Carter’s home and Penrith office, officers allegedly located electronic devices, hard drives, and documentation relevant to their investigation, as well as a small amount of a substance believed to be cocaine.

Police allege the accountant defrauded at least eight accounting clients to the value of $26 million in a bid to fund his lavish lifestyle and gambling habit, but Carter’s lawyer previously argued the figure was

closer to $6 million with $20 million relating to gambling institutions.

The Crown Prosecutor opposed bail and told the court of five concerns, including that Carter would fail to attend court and commit further offences.

Carter’s lawyer argued that these risks can be mitigated, saying 20,000 pages of material are now before authorities. He told the court that the case

has been described by police as “overwhelming”, which supported his claim that these allegations are hard to prove.

“Much of the gambling activity is likely to be legal conduct,” he said.

“It’s rare for people accused of fraud and money laundering to be refused bail.”

Furthermore, Carter’s lawyer said his client needs to be at liberty due to the complexity of the case.

He asserted that he is going to have to spend “hours and hours with this man” to obtain instructions in relations to the criminal case.

The court also heard that Carter is involved in an ongoing civil suit against Sportsbet and proceedings related to his previous marriage.

The lawyer also told Justice Sweeney that his current partner is experiencing pregnancy complications and is expected to give birth next month.

Carter’s lawyer proposed strict bail conditions, including a surety of $700,000. He also noted that Carter is unlikely to commit further offences of dishonesty in the same way because the opportunities have been “effectively removed”.

Karen’s Comment

The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

Teachers, I’m with you

I know our teachers are feeling disappointed and angry as the issues surrounding salary and workload conditions continue.

I have been contacted by many teachers

I also share your concerns. I am certainly advocating to the Premier and Minister my views and those of my constituents. Our teachers are too important to lose.

“He cannot practice in his former professional roles as an accountant and tax agent,” he said.

Before handing down her judgement, Justice Sweeney took into account that Carter has only been before the court once before for dishonesty offences but did not discount that these “allegations of effectively fraud” are very “serious”.

She also noted that he was in the process of seeking out treatment for his gambling addiction in the days leading up to his arrest and had registered with BetStop, which will prevent him from gambling online.

He was granted bail under incredibly strict conditions, which were read out to the court.

Following his release, Carter must reside in with his retired mother in Kingswood, report daily to police and wear an electronic tracking bracelet.

He is also prohibited from leaving greater Sydney and is only allowed to leave home for a number of reasons identified by the court.

Carter is yet to enter a plea in relation to the charges.

He is due to reappear at Penrith Local Court on September 8.

The Education Minister has recently reiterated that raising the pay and conditions of our teachers is an essential part of the Minns Labor Government’s plans.

I have always been a strong advocate for our teachers and I will continue to stand by your side.

KAREN MCKEOWN OAM Member for Penrith

Community Invitation

MAKAYLA LOCAL NEWS

the western weekender » 18 I’M HERE TO HELP YOU ‘Authorised by’ Karen McKeown MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary e Shop 23, 510-534 Ground Floor Tattersalls Centre High St Penrit KAREN MCKEOWN MEMBER FOR PENRITH ▶ Social Housing ▶ Fair Trading ▶ State Roads ▶ Police ▶ Fire & Rescue ▶ Public Transport ▶ Crown Lands ▶ Family and Community Services ▶ Justice of the Peace Services & Applications ▶ Birthday and Wedding Anniversary Congratulations Messages ▶ Service NSW ▶ NSW Health and Hospitals ▶ Revenue NSW ▶ Ambulance ▶ State Emergency Service ▶ National Parks ▶ Small Business I’M HERE TO HELP YOU ▶ Social Housing ▶ Fair Trading ▶ State Roads ▶ Police ▶ Fire & Rescue ▶ Public Transport ▶ Crown Lands ▶ Family and Community Services ▶ Justice of the Peace Services & Applications ▶ Birthday and Wedding Anniversary ▶ Service NSW ▶ NSW Health and Hospitals ▶ Revenue NSW ▶ Ambulance ▶ State Emergency Service ▶ National Parks ▶ Small Business WW51722

Former accountant granted bail as case labelled “overwhelming”

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Tuesday 15 August 3pm to 8pm

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Tuesday 5 September 3pm to 8pm

Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre Cambridge Park

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Tuesday 22 August 3pm to 8pm

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Tuesday 12 September 3pm to 8pm

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Gambling panel meets

Gaming reform takes next step as independent panel discusses future plans

The NSW Government has welcomed the first meeting of the Independent Panel on Gaming Reform as the state continues to tackle problem gambling across New South Wales.

The Independent Panel has considered elements of the upcoming cashless gaming trial, as well as matters which will inform its recommendations to the NSW Government on a gaming reform implementation roadmap.

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said he was pleased the Independent Panel was considering the design and framework for the upcoming cashless gaming trial carefully and as a matter of priority, including the minimum requirements for venues and technology providers to take part.

“The Panel’s first priority is to confirm the design and regulatory settings for the expanded cashless gaming trial, to ensure it can start as soon as possible,” he said.

“This includes deciding which venues will take part, ensuring there is an appropriate mix of hotels and clubs across metropolitan and regional areas.

“By imposing certain mandatory requirements, the Panel can ensure that the trial will have strong data security and privacy protections in place.”

The Independent Panel will also provide advice to the NSW Government on a gaming reform implementation roadmap by Novem-

ber 2024. This will include making recommendations to the NSW Government on the use of the $100 million harm minimisation fund, expanding the self-exclusion register and providing for third-party exclusions, and the use of facial recognition technology to support the enhanced exclusions schemes.

The panel will also be consulted on a review of the ClubGRANTS Scheme, which is being undertaken by Liquor & Gaming NSW in

consultation with The Cabinet Office and NSW Treasury.

This review will be undertaken separately, but concurrent with the Panel’s work on gaming reforms.

Chair Michael Foggo said the NSW Government had carefully considered the composition of the Independent Panel to ensure it is well placed to provide balanced and expert advice about gaming reform.

“The panel is set up so that a range key stakeholders and experts are represented including industry, gambling harm minimisation experts, academic experts, law enforcement and cyber security,” Foggo said.

“It also has the ability to seek input from other external experts in the field and government bodies such as the NSW Crime Commission, the NSW Information and Privacy Commission and AUSTRAC.”

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Welcome To Country not welcome When I was a teenager in the UK, we used to scurry out of the cinema before they played ‘God Save The Queen’ at the end of the movie. If we weren’t quick enough, we’d have to stand to attention in the aisle until it finished or risk the wrath of any adults who would be dutifully standing hand on heart. Thankfully this practice faded out in the 1970’s. Then at school assembly every day we’d all have to chant the Lord’s prayer, whether or not we believed a word of it. This was (and is) mandated. In England and Wales the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 states that all pupils in state schools must take part in a daily act of collective worship, unless their parents request that they be excused from attending. No separation of State and church there. The same thing happens in the NSW Parliament. Fortunately I no longer have to endure either of these examples of brainwashing, but I can’t escape the latest version, which is the ubiquitous Welcome To Country. How many hours are being lost in Council meetings, school halls, Probus meetings, and at football matches, and public meetings because of this? It appears that nobody can address any kind of meeting without first telling us how they’d like to pay their respects to elders past and present. The reason is obvious, if something is said enough times we’ll believe it. Who is driving this, and is it just a coincidence that a referendum is approaching?

Please stop.

DAVID DAVIS, VIA EMAIL

Post office closure

The closure of the Westfield Penrith post

office is a ridiculous decision by Australia

Post and obviously profit motivated (Post office furore, Weekender August 11). What post office hasn’t recently experienced a downturn during COVID etc? Maybe the post office at the eastern end of High Street should be closed due to its poor location. The western end of High Street is where the major offices and shopping is located plus there is a lack of parking at the top of High Street. The other question is what is Westfield doing to try and retain the post office especially as they are proposing a major hotel and office tower for the centre. How can they call Westfield Penrith a major centre when it lacks basic services such as a post office?

BRIAN REES, CADDENS

Service should remain open

Troy Dodds, the Editor of the Western Weekender, said it best when it comes to serious comments in regard to the impending closure of Westfield Penrith Post Shop. In his opening comments for Friday, August 11, he states, “The decision by Australia Post to close its Westfield Penrith branch is a slap in the face to many local residents.” He went on to say that “it is clearly a decision made without any serious local, on-the-ground knowledge”, and added that, amongst many other absolute truths, a “serious re-think is needed here”. I have not always agreed ‘eye to eye’ with Troy, who runs a very fair newspaper, but on this occasion he clearly ‘knocked it out of the park’.

DAVID BURT, KINGSWOOD

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

The Independent Panel on Gaming Reform meets for the first time.

Cancer patient faces financial hurdle to access best treatment

form of radiation treatment but not widely available because of the high capital costs,” the letter said.

Ayoung man fighting a rare and aggressive bone cancer has been refused government assistance to receive life-saving treatment overseas.

Brodie Ross, an Oxley Park local, was diagnosed with Skull Base Chondrosarcoma in the right cavernous sinus lesion at the age of 21 earlier this year.

According to his mother, Chantel Fisher, he started having vision problems in September last year.

“He was referred to an eye specialist who sent Brodie straight to the emergency department for urgent review,” she told the Weekender

“After MRIs, CT scans and blood work Brodie received the news, about a week or so later, that they had found a mass sitting just outside the brain behind the right eye.”

In December, a neurosurgeon at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse performed a biopsy and Ross was sent home on Christmas Day.

“They sent it away for testing and it just took forever,” Fisher said.

“In early February we got the call.

“They confirmed that it was cancer, and it was Chondrosarcoma, which is exactly what they thought it was.”

When it came to treatment options, Ross’ oncologist insisted that Proton Beam Therapy, which is currently available in Switzerland, would be best.

According to Fisher, they were advised to apply for financial assis-

tance through the Medical Treatment Overseas Program (MTOP) because it won’t be available in Australia until 2025.

She said they received a letter from the Department of Health and Aged Care last month, saying that Ross was not eligible because the proposed overseas treatment or an effective alternative treatment must not be available in Australia in-time

to benefit the applicant. The letter said the treatment Ross was trying to access is “recognised” and “very reasonable to ask for”.

Despite this, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) were not able to reach a unanimous decision on whether an effective alternative treatment is available.

“Proton therapy is an accepted

“This treatment is widely recognised as appropriate for base of skull Chondrosarcoma and is regarded as the centre of care in Switzerland.”

Fisher is devastated by this news and has applied for the board to review their decision.

“They’ve got up to three months, and it’s already been five weeks,” she said.

“There’s no guarantee they’re going to review it and say that he can have the treatment.”

But still, she is hopeful that she will garner the support for her son to receive this life-saving treatment.

“It’s been a long nine months,” she said.

“You don’t ever want to hear anyone that you know has got cancer let alone your child, like I know he’s 21 but he’s still my kid,” she said.

“He’s just starting his life – he just got a full-time job and was working, but basically his whole life stopped when they found this.”

You can assist Brodie at https://bit. ly/wwbrodie.

Brodie Ross in hospital. Brodie Ross with his family.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

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The Weekender has two Dream Routine Skincare Sets to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Skincare’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, September 8 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

Melissa’s Message

The weekly views of the Federal Member for Lindsay

We must always remember

This week marks 50 years since the proclamation to end the nation’s involvement in the Vietnam War by then Governor-General Sir Paul Hasluck.

On this day we remember the young men, barely adults, setting out on an adventure across the sea to an unknown fate, to the heartache and pain of war. For those in our community who fought in Vietnam, thank you for being so brave, putting your commitment to serve our country above anything else.

The Vietnam War was a complex conflict, with deep roots in the Cold War and the struggle for control of the Asia-Pacific region. Australia’s involvement in the war began in 1962, when a small number of military advisers were sent to South Vietnam to assist in the fight against communist forces.

Over the next decade, Australia’s com-

mitment to the war grew, with more than 60,000 Australians serving in Vietnam. Over 3,000 were wounded and 523 gave the greatest sacrifice, including Errol Noack, the first national serviceman to be killed in Vietnam at 21-years-old, just 10 days into his service. “I don’t want to go to war but I must obey the call to duty. I will go and do my best,” he said.

Every Australian who served showed great courage and resilience. They demonstrated their bravery and determination in the face of great adversity. They showed the world what it means to be an Australian – to stand up for what is right, to fight for freedom and democracy, and to serve our country with honour and distinction.

On August 18 and always, lest we forget.

MELISSA MCINTOSH

Federal Member for Lindsay

RENEWED CALL TO FIND MISSING GIRL

Police are re-appealing for public assistance to locate a teenager missing from St Marys since last month.

Trishelle Adames-Rollo, aged 17, was last seen in St Marys on Friday, July 21.

“Police and family hold serious concerns due to her age,” a Police spokesperson said.

“Trishelle is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 168cm tall, of a slim build, blue eyes and orange hair.

“Trishelle is known to frequent the St Marys, Penrith, Mount Druitt and Parramatta areas.”

A photo is available on our website.

As your local member in the Australian Parliament, there’s nothing more important to me than representing and supporting our community.

If I can help in any way please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or my office.

Sad passing of Lions Club icon

Afuneral service was held on Monday for Alan Bideleux, well known for his work with Cambridge Park Lions Club over many years. He passed away late last month after a battle with cancer.

Long-time friend and current President of Cambridge Park Lions, Jan Eaton, said he was passionate about the Lions and its community efforts.

“I personally have known Alan for 47 years, him being my first boss in Australia after I arrived in 1975. Both being Poms from Kent in England and both having a quirky sort of humour we got on well from the start,” she said.

“I was fortunate enough to accompany Alan to many different Lions’ events. Two that I distinctly remember are the annual ‘Banglasmile’ trivia nights at which we never did particularly well but had a good time trying and the other RDA’s (Riding for the Disabled) Christmas Party at which Alan was always Santa and I was Mrs Claus.

“I recall one occasion when I had the then Mayor of Penrith sitting on my knee whilst his daughter sat on Santa’s! They were always great times as were the dozens of occasions we helped at local barbecues and innumerable other fundraising activities.”

Bideleux became a Patron of the Cambridge Park Lions as a show of gratitude for the immense contribution he had made to the club.

“For quite a few years he ran the club almost singlehandedly being Secretary, Treasurer and President at one time plus always avidly looking for new members,” Eaton said.

“He has been presented with a number of awards from Lions including being a Melvin Jones recipient.

“I don’t know how many times he said to me ‘I’ve had enough. I’ll just finish this year then I’ll quit’ but strangely enough that year never seemed to end.”

Many in the community would have known Alan without even realising it –most Saturdays you could spot him at the famous Chocolate Wheel in Penrith.

“He instigated the ‘Larrikin of the Year’ contest, an interclub event to find the funniest amongst us which was enjoyed by many for quite a few years,” Eaton said.

“Alan embodied everything that is good about Lions plus he was the best friend you could ever ask for and he will be sorely missed. All I can say is that I hope they have Guinness on tap up there!”

Bideleux contributed extensively to the Weekender over the years, and we pass on our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

Alan Bideleux will be remembered for his terrific community contribution.

Walking for cancer funds

Penrith local to take part in initative that raises money for much-needed research

APenrith local will take part in the Spirit to Cure walk next week to raise money for cancer research.

Spirit to Cure is Suncorp’s second largest cancer fundraising challenge, which gives people from all walks of life the opportunity to get fit and connect with their colleagues for a cause.

The initiative started in 2021 and, so far, has contributed directly towards new treatments, boosting diagnosis rates and improving the daily lives of those affected by cancer.

Geri Latief has worked at Suncorp for 10 years, and this year she’ll be walking a half marathon to raise funds for cancer research research, support and prevention.

“This year I’ll be taking on the 21km walk with my colleagues around the Sydney CBD,” she said.

“In Australia, we are aiming to collectively raise $1.6 million and in

New Zealand $300,000.”

Latief said it was important for her to get outside her comfort zone and get involved in an initiative that is making a difference.

“There’s a lot that’s happened in my life and I just felt a strong urge to challenge myself and take a more active role in making a difference in other people’s lives,” she told the Weekender

“I just felt now was the perfect time for me to align my personal growth with a meaningful cause.

“Entering the Spirit to Cure, which our company Suncorp is partners

with, I can also use that platform to spread awareness to my friends and family.

“Even if one person takes a moment to click the link and find out more about how they can contribute to the cause, I feel I’ve done my part.”

Latief said she was recently given some great advice.

Reflecting on that, she said it inspired her to lean in on opportunities because “you only get out what you put in”.

She said she was initially nervous about taking on the challenge, but now she is getting excited.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Real Festival to return!

Real Festival is back from September 1517 to take over the Nepean River with art installations, food trucks and pop-up bar, arcade games, performances, workshops, on-water activities and market stalls.

It has been three years since the last Real Festival was held due to COVID-19 and, most recently, the renovation of Tench Reserve. The 2023 event will be the first opportunity to enjoy the newly upgraded riverbank location, and we’re looking forward to utilising this space for the fantastic event program we have installed.

Real Festival is a free event and offers an exciting program of activities, entertainment and activations that celebrate the landscape of the Nepean River.

By day, festival-goers can explore handson workshops, on-water activities and attractions, and by night the riverside will become an illuminated playground of fun.

It is the perfect family-friendly event, with fun activities for kids and adults of all ages. Highlights include 30-minute skate sessions, including skate hire, at

“It will be massive and a great event,” she said.

“Other participants will be taking on 380km cycling rides from Gold Coast to Byron Bay and others will be collectively tackling a 50km run with groups of up to six people.”

Latief said completing the walk will be both rewarding and an achievement.

“I’m doing it for the community. I’m doing it for myself,” she said.

To donate to the cause, visit https://tourdecure.grassrootz.com/ spirit-to-cure-sydney-2023-walk/ geri-latief.

the Busways Roller Rink (pre-booking required), neon-lit silent disco, an open-air arcade, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, circus skills, slime making and yoga workshops.

The headline performance will see the Nepean River magically transformed with light, sound and storytelling, featuring animated artworks by the No Boundaries Art Group and starring the Nepean Belle. Followed by an illuminated Jetpack show you won’t want to miss.

And Festival favourite Junkyard Beats is returning once more to bring their highly entertaining all drumming, dancing and creative recycling performances back to Penrith.

To view the full program and pre-book workshops, head to realfestival.com.au, and please connect with us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with news and information. The countdown is on to this fantastic event.

CR TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor of Penrith

LOOKING FOR A PAPER?

Did you know there’s a number of ways to get your hands on a copy of the Western Weekender each week?

Head to www.westernweekender.com.au/ getapaper to find out how you can make sure you never miss out.

A previous Suncorp Spirit to Cure team.

Geri Latief.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Pick up a copy of the paper

Caddens

Caddens News (Caddens Corner)

Clementine’s Café

Woolworths

Cambridge Gardens

Coles

Mcdonald’s

Overlander Hotel

Cambridge Park

Cambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

Castlereagh

Ampol Service Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Colyton

Colyton Centre Pharmacy

Colyton Friendly Grocer

Colyton Hotel

Colyton Newsagency

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

Mcdonald’s

Mother Earth Nursery

Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

Mcdonald’s

Penrith Regional Gallery

Woolworths Lennox Village

7/11 Emu Plains (Great Western Highway)

7/11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Heights

Super Save Compounding Chemist

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

Glenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

Mcdonald’s

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

Jamisontown

Abcoe

Abel Street Eatery (Happy Harrys)

Batt Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Harvey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Salt Cafe (Penrith Homemaker)

Shell Service Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars Café

Western Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/11 Jamisontown

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

Caltex Service Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

Barista Bar Coffee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital)

Country Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Smash Repairs

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Radhe Indian Grocery Store

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow Café (Formerly Willow Tree Café)

Llandilo Iga

Londonderry

Londonderry Liquor Store Shell X Roads

Luddenham

Ampol

Australia Post Iga Luddenham

Minchinbury

Mcdonald’s

Minchinbury Fruit Market

Mount Druitt

Westfield Mount Druitt

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

The Bunker

North St Marys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Mfc Food Stores

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Australian Arms

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley Café)

Brisket Boys

Café Fred

Caltex Coreen Avenue

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles (Westfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mart

High Street Pies

Hoyts Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

Liquor Stax Peachtree

Mcdonald’s High Street

Mcdonald’s Panthers Leagues

Mcdonald’s Peachtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group Café

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

One Point Health

Panthers Leagues Club

Peachtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith Cbd Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Library

Penrith Golf Club

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Paceway

Penrith Rsl

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

Re/Max

Sittano’s Restaurant

Tattersalls Hotel

The Chicken Run

The Heritage Terrace Café

The Log Cabin

Westfield

World Gym

7/11 Henry Street

Regentville

7/11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Iga

The Chemist Shop

South Penrith Budget Service Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Southlands Takeaway

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair

Blue Cattle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

Melville Road Takeaway

St Clair Library

St Clair Shopping Centre 7/11 St Clair

St Marys

Andrew’s Corner Store

Ampol Foodary

Astley Pharmacy

Cassandra’s On Queen

Guido’s Hair Care

Jayam Supermarket

Mcdonald’s St Marys South

Monfarville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Marys Band Club

St Marys Fish Market

St Marys Leagues Club

St Marys Library

St Marys Pharmacy Queen St

St Marys Pizza Hut

St Marys Rsl

St Marys Village

Wagon Wheel Hotel

Walter’s Newsagency

Thornton

Petramart

Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia

Wallacia Golf Club

Wallacia Hotel

Wallacia Post Office

Wallacia Takeaway

Warragamba

Warragamba Sports Club

Werrington

Colonial Hotel

Crossroads Convenience Store

Dirani’s Mfc

George’s Charcoal Chicken

Henry Sports Club

Mcdonald’s

Supa Iga

The Foodary

Werrington Newsagency

Hub to find cost-of-living relief

People will now be able to access information from more than 80 government and non-government websites in one central place, along with guides and advice on how to save money and where to find various rebates and vouchers.

The NSW Government initiative provides resources and tools to help ease cost-of-living pressures via nsw.gov.au.

“The Cost-of-Living Hub helps people connect to important services and support, giving them access to what they need when they need it the most,” Penrith MP Karen McKeown said.

“It is important the community knows what help is available to them.”

The hub content is tailored to provide easy access for everyone so they can find the support that meets their individual circumstances.

The Cost-of-Living Hub focuses on seven key areas covering everyday essentials including:

• Food and groceries – Ways to save on your weekly food bill and reduce food wastage.

• Housing – NSW Government homebuyer incentives, managing rent increases and mortgage help.

• Energy and utilities – Checking eligibility for Energy Bill Relief and gas rebates, reducing power usage to decrease your bills, requesting a payment plan and seeking emergency assistance.

• Managing money – Accessing support and advice if you’re experiencing financial hardship, avoiding scams and using a tool to more effectively manage your budget.

• Health – Reviewing your private health cover to find a policy that’s right for you and understanding safety nets.

• Families and care – Eligibility for the childcare subsidy, finding children’s education and care services to support working parents and affordable help around the home for seniors and older Australians.

• Transport, driving and fuel – Tips for finding cheaper fuel, cost-saving driving techniques, transport alternatives and tips for choosing insurance. Access the Hub at https://bit.ly/clhubww.

RSL

Premier Chris Minns and Penrith MP Karen McKeown discuss cost-of-living.

Finding answers for little fighters like brave Max

ELLIE BUSBY

An international fundraiser is looking to support local scientists at Western Sydney University (WSU) in their fight to understand a rare neurological disorder.

At just seven-months-old, Thomas Wagner’s son Max was diagnosed with Alexander Disease – a rare, and often fatal, disorder of the nervous system.

Wagner said the chances of having Alexander Disease may be less than one in a million, but that the effects are devastating.

“It is a cruel, devastating disease that cuts the life of some of the most vulnerable and innocent people short, and robs them of all milestones they might have learned – if they ever achieved them. Toddlers and children lose the ability to walk, crawl, sit, speak, eat, and ultimately, breathe,” he told the Weekender

“Max is [now] 14 months, but he cannot pull himself up yet, or roll around, or point or talk, and we don’t know if he ever will.”

With no cure for the neurological disorder discovered as of yet, Wagner and his family were told Max may only live for five years.

Refusing to give up, Max’s parents began to look into new approaches to gene ther-

apy and drugs that have proven effective in other neurodegenerative diseases. That’s when Wagner came across the work of WSU’s Senior Lecturer Dr Erika Gyengesi.

“When we first received Max’s devastating diagnosis in February, I started reading academic papers to better understand this cruel disease,” he said.

“I stumbled upon the work of Dr Erika Gyengesi at WSU on neuroinflammation, which is a key problem in Alexander Disease.”

Wagner then reached out to Gyengesi to find out more about the disease and how the work done in her group might be applicable and beneficial in finding treatments for it.

“It turned out that Dr Gyengesi had done work on certain drugs that Alexander Disease researchers had previously wanted to test,” he added.

“But testing those drugs in Alexander Disease specifically takes resources that no university has lying around, including WSU.

“So, the plan arose to somehow enable a scholarship for a PHD, so Dr Gyengesi and her group can translate their work to Alexander Disease and enable WSU to help test drugs nobody has tested before.”

Wagner is now hoping to raise around $75,000 to provide the research team at WSU with the funds needed to conduct

essential experiments, adding that it could “make a world of difference” for children who suffer from Alexander Disease.

“If we could get Dr Gyengesi and WSU to work on AxD, more drugs and treatments finally have a chance to get tested and could give more children in the world a fighting chance for supportive treatments during their lifetime,” he said.

“We owe [it to] Max and all Alexander children that we try.”

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/ help-max-find-a-cure-for-alexander-disease.

14-month-old Max is living with the rare and often fatal Alexander Disease.

Pictured here is the Penrith Post Office on High Street in the early 1950s.

The original Penrith Post Office building was opened on April 19, 1880 on this site on the northern side of High Street, close to the Woodriff Street intersection.

Until that time it had operated through the Kellett family home on the Hornseywood estate near St Stephens Church.

Bussell Brothers store can be seen on the left, with O'Farrell's bakery on the right.

While these buildings have undergone many renovations over the years, they still stand today.

For context, this is around where the Taj of the Valley Indian restaurant and Savoury Dining currently stands.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

mozzarella, tomato salsa, corn, slaw, jalapeno, chipotle mayo and corn chips. There’s also the Birria Lamb Toastie and the Hong-Kong French Toast, plus some new beverages too. Percy Plunkett is located on Station Street.

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

Named after Governor King and family whose grants in this area totalled 3780 acres. Governor King’s son Phillip Parker King, his three daughters and his wife all had land given to them. King Street is on John Oxley’s original grant which was brought by Phillip Parker King in 1821.

If you know the meaning of a street name in the Penrith LGA email news@ westernweekender.com.au.

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

Δ Radio on the road: The top-rating 2GB Continuous Call Team (pictured above) will broadcast live from Penrith on Saturday, September 2. The team, headed by Mark Levy and Darryl Brohman, will broadcast live from Panthers Leagues Club from 1pm. There’ll be special guests, prizes to win, and all the usual madness you get when these big personalities get together. Following the broadcast, the team will head across the road to BlueBet Stadium, where Mat Thompson will call the much-anticipated clash between the Panthers and the Cowboys in the final round of the regular season.

Δ Cruisers in a can: Carlton & United Breweries is leaving glass bottles behind as it introduces its new range of canned Vodka Cruiser Cocktails. The latest drink range is available in three

flavours: Passionfruit Daiquiri, Raspberry Cosmopolitan, and Lime Margarita. The Vodka Cruiser Cocktails will be served up in 275ml cans with an alcohol content of 5.5 per cent, that’s 1.2 standard drinks per serving, retailing for $22 at bottle shops nationwide.

Δ Sunset Hour: Sinclair’s at The Log Cabin has locked in a regular happy hour period where you can enjoy classic cocktails for just $15. Between 5pm and 7pm from Thursday to Saturday, enjoy your choice of Negroni, Aperol Spritz, Classic Margarita or Espresso Martini.

Walk-ins are welcome. It’s at the River Deck Cocktail & Wine Bar upstairs.

Δ Cupcake Day: Indulge in cupcake bliss and help animals in need because the sweetest fundraiser, RSPCA Cupcake Day, has officially arrived. This August, RSPCA NSW is calling on animal lovers across the country to start baking for the 100,000 animals that turn to the RSPCA for protection each year. Visit rspcacupcakeday.com.au to register as a Cupcake Day host and find out how you can bake a change today!

Δ New menu items: One of Penrith’s most popular cafés, Percy Plunkett, has dropped a host of new menu items. Among them is the Loaded Hotdog, which is a beef hotdog with

Racing and country music together!

Horse racing and country music are a match made in heaven! So, why not head on down to Hawkesbury Race Club on Saturday, September 2 for their Country Music Raceday! There will be plenty of entertainment happening on and off the track, including thrilling horse racing action with an eightrace card, live music and of course, delicious food trucks.

And, if that isn’t enough, Hawkesbury Race Club are also hosting a Line Dancing Masterclass, so grab your mates, jump in line and dance the day away!

While you’re at it, groove to the tunes of local legends Rough Stock and The James Brothers, who will be playing some toe-tapping music on-course.

For the ultimate race day expe-

rience, indulge in Hawkesbury Race Club’s hospitality package featuring a Gourmet BBQ Buffet Luncheon and beverage package in the Ted McCabe Function Centre featuring panoramic views of the racecourse and the picturesque Blue Mountains for just $149 per person.

“We are excited to host the Country Music Raceday once again, last year’s event was the inaugural Country Music themed day, and

it was very well received! The crowds loved the mix of horse racing and country tunes,” Hawkesbury Race Club’s Eliza Babazogli said.

Approximately a 25-minute drive from Penrith, the Hawkesbury is one of Australia’s oldest settlements, first explored by Governor Phillip in 1789.

Surrounded by wide open spaces, a backdrop of the glorious Blue Mountains and the history of a well-established racing venue, Hawkesbury Race Club is the perfect location for your next event.

They are a NSW provincial club and hold 25 race meetings per year, with Clarendon Train Station on their doorstep and ample free parking, it is an excellent venue to enjoy.

Hawkesbury Race Club can cater for your event, whether it is a conference, convention, meeting or wedding reception.

They offer a 4-star Motel, which includes 30 luxuriously appointed rooms, so if you need somewhere to rest after the upcoming Country Music Raceday – you can!

Hawkesbury Race Club’s Country Music Raceday will be held on Saturday, September 2 from 11am.

General admission tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for concessions.

For more information and to book, visit hawkesburyraceclub.com.au.

General admission tickets will also be available to purchase at the gate.

Getcha boots, getcha hat because Hawkesbury Race Club is bringing country back!

WITH GRAHAM FITZPATRICK WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

10 things business owners must do

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven business landscape, small business owners are faced with both challenges and opportunities. To thrive in this digital age, it’s crucial to embrace a range of strategies that can elevate their brand, engage customers, and drive growth.

Here are the top 10 things small business owners should be doing to ensure success:

10. Embrace digital transformation: The world has gone digital, and so should your business. Utilise digital marketing strategies and tools to connect with tech-savvy consumers.

9. Create a strong online presence: Leverage social media platforms to connect with your audience, run targeted ads, and build a community around your brand. A compelling online presence builds credibility and fosters trust.

8. Invest in content marketing: Create valuable and informative content to attract and engage your target audience, showcasing your expertise and building trust. Use blogs, articles, and infographics to showcase your expertise, answer customer questions, and provide solutions.

7. Utilise social media marketing: Create a community around your brand, engage with customers, and run targeted ads to increase your brand’s

personalised marketing campaigns. Promoting offers based on customer behaviour and preferences, increasing the likelihood of conversions and builds loyalty.

5. Optimise for mobile devices: A seamless mobile experience enhances user satisfaction and ensures you’re not missing out on potential customers.

4. Explore video marketing: Video content is captivating and highly shareable. Use videos to tell your brand’s story, showcase products, and engage your audience emotionally.

3. Leverage business networking: Building relationships within your industry is invaluable. Collaborate with fellow business owners to enhance your reputation, share insights, and tap into each other’s customer base.

2. Implement marketing automation: Marketing automation tools can streamline repetitive tasks, nurture leads, and deliver targeted messages, ensuring your marketing efforts remain consistent and effective.

1. Measure and analyse results: Regularly track and analyse marketing metrics to gain insights into what’s working and what needs adjustment. By understanding your data, you can allocate resources effectively and achieve better results.

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, small business success hinges on staying adaptable and utilising the tools and strategies at your disposal.

NSW Education Standards Authority

AUTHORISED PERSON FOR THE PURPOSE OF HOME SCHOOLING REGISTRATION

NESA is seeking expressions of interest for the role of Authorised Person for home schooling registration from persons based in the Blue Mountains region of New South Wales. Authorised Persons are experienced educational leaders who conduct assessments of applications for home schooling registration in the home of the applicant. Authorised Persons provide reports and recommendations to NESA relating to applications for home schooling registration.

Successful teaching experience and curriculum leadership is required. A Working with Children Check clearance number is also required for this position.

Information regarding the application process can be accessed by following the link: https://iworkfor.nsw.gov.au/job/authorisedperson-for-the-purpose-of-home-schooling-registration-bluemountains-region-of-nsw-422063

Applications close 4 September 2023

Further details can be obtained by contacting (02) 9367 8403

ADVICE & TRAINING

BUSINESS

We know that as a small busines you just want to be productive and not have to worry about all that “business stuff”.

But that “business stuff” is so important to your success. That’s where the Western Sydney Business Centre can help. We have been helping small businesses for years with things like Business Planning and Marketing, Pricing and Sales, Business Resilience and more. Choose a One on One advisory sessions with a professional, independent business advisor who will come to you. Or sit in on one of our many tailored webinars or workshops.

Get started today, call 4721 5011.

The Western Sydney Business Centre has The Western Sydney Business Centre has been delivering business advice as a not for profit organisation for over 35 years, winning multiple national business advice The

Get in touch with us to find out how to access your

BUSINESS ADVICE

S1, L1, 111 Henry St, Penrith NSW 2750

02 4721 5011

Western Sydney Business Centre has beendelivering business advice as a not for profit organisation for over 35 years, winning multiple national business advice awards as both a Centre and as individual advisors as we are consistently being placed in the top 3 business advice centres in NSW. We complete over 6,500 hours of business advice every year. wsbusiness.com.au

THE DHARUG CONNECTION

A special weekly focus on local Indigenous affairs and services

Rodney Matthews Program Manager for Closing the Gap (ITC) Program

Stepping On for Mob – staying on our feet for a long and enjoyable life

The NCNS Closing the Gap program is hosting the Stepping On program over seven Thursdays this August and September at the Closing the Gap team office at Werrington. The program is free, and is for Aboriginal people over 45 years, who have some mobility issues that put them at risk of a fall. Transport is provided at no cost, and the sessions are run by qualified Health professionals from Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, with NCNS

cultural support workers – male and female – also joining the group to make sure you feel safe and supported.

We all know that falls can have a terrible impact on lifestyle and life expectancy. We have all seen the impact that a fall can have on our loved ones, including the loss of independence, and complications of disease that can often result following a fall.

The Stepping On program has been shown to reduce the incidence of falls in the community

Student is reaching for the stars

PhD candidate and proud Palawa man, Edward (Ted) Vanderfeen will be heading to the United States for a once-in-alifetime internship with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory after being selected for Monash University’s National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA), supported by the Australian Space Agency.

Representing Western Sydney University’s International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems and the School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, he will be partnered with a scientist or engineer mentor at NASA’s JPL in California for a 10-week internship to complete projects outlined by NASA mentors while also contributing to current NASA JPL space missions.

“Engineering is in my blood. My dad was an automation engineer when I was growing up and he would bring his work home. I would always get curious as to how things worked, I pulled them apart and destroyed all the stuff he bought home – much to his dismay – but looking back, I don’t think I’d want to do anything else,” he said.

Applying for the NISA program after completing his Bachelor of Engineering degree with 1st Class Honours with the University’s School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, Vanderfeen said the NISA program opportunity has come at the right time.

“It was very serendipitous timing, it felt like the opportunity that I had spent my entire degree here at Western Sydney University preparing for. It’s a dream come true to get to spend 10 weeks at NASA JPL,” he said.

Helpful Contacts

by 30 per cent. And by running it at our Closing the Gap office, we can provide the cultural support to go with a quality health prevention program. The program will help you learn how to reduce your risk of falling and how to maintain your independence.

Stepping On includes gentle group exercise to improve your balance and educational talks from experts. BUT it doesn’t matter if you haven’t exercised in a while… anyone can do the

gentle activities. Topics covered include home hazards, community safety, managing your medications and more. No prior knowledge or exercise experience is required! Only a few spots are left and registrations are required. Please call your Closing the Gap support worker or Rodney on 0447 766 861 to check your eligibility and book your place in this culturally friendly and supportive group.

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services 4721 8520 nepeancommunity.org.au

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service 4729 7300 27-29 Lawson St, Penrith Muru Mittigar 4730 0400 murumittigar.com.au

KARI Aboriginal Resources (02) 8782 0333 kari.org.au

Aboriginal Home Care 1300 973 058 australianunity.com.au

NSW Aboriginal Affairs 1800 019 998 aboriginalaffairs.nsw.gov.au

Real Futures Women’s Business Second Chance Hub 1800 732 538

The Weekender acknowledges the financial support received from the Walkley Foundation to produce this concept.

the final word v

Penrith hit the road for what could be the final time this season to take on a plucky Gold Coast side at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday evening.

Should all go to plan, the Panthers will bunker down in Sydney after this visit to the glitter strip – with two home games to end the season and a Finals campaign that will begin at Panthers Stadium and end just up the road at the bigger venues.

After a competitive stretch in the middle of the season, it feels like the air has gone out of the Titans’ tyres in recent weeks, as a long season – which included the sacking of head coach Justin Holbrook – rolls to its conclusion.

They weren’t terrible against Cronulla last week but the end scoreline – a 36-6 demolition – ultimately tells the story.

Often, teams with a new coach coming in and

the Finals well out of reach fall away over this end period of the competition and you get the feeling that’s how it’ll be for the Titans, though they’d be ear-marking their final home game against the Bulldogs as a possible positive end to an otherwise dull season.

Penrith meantime continue to roll on. Without a host of big names again last Thursday night, they finished on top of Manly 24-12 in what was an entertaining affair at 4 Pines Park.

Credit where credit’s due – Manly knew they weren’t going to beat the Panthers with a regular, simple game plan so they threw caution to the wind and very nearly got themselves a result. It was perhaps a warning to Penrith that if other teams a little more equipped to pull off such an audacious game plan get it right on the day, it could spell trouble.

The Titans may not necessarily adapt the

Manly approach on Saturday but they’d be silly not to throw the ball around and try to unsettle the defending champions.

Why not push the pass, take the early kick or chip that ball over the top? What have you really got to lose when you’re playing the best defensive team in the competition by far and your Finals hopes are over?

The Panthers are poised to welcome back Jarome Luai for this clash, and it’s a solid addition – he was clearly missed against the Sea Eagles last Thursday as the combination of two natural number sevens in the halves didn’t really deliver the same punch as the usual Nathan Cleary / Luai partnership we’re used to.

Luai may have been handed the villain tag by sections of the media and other teams, but you only get to carry such a tag if you’re a winner and Luai is definitely that. The spark that he

brings to Penrith’s attack cannot be underrated.

Mitch Kenny also makes a welcome return this week, but it should be noted that Soni Luke played well when getting more minutes and earlier game time last week. I’m not convinced by the role Luke plays off the bench usually, but if he can get the type of minutes he did last week then it’s certainly a justified selection each week.

Kenny struggled at the start of the year out of dummy half but the adjustment period post Api Koroisau now appears complete and keeping him fit at this business end of the season will be critical.

I’m expecting a high scoring encounter on Saturday – and I don’t anticipate the Panthers to be all that troubled.

Tip: Panthers by 20.

Zac Hosking in action against Melbourne.

Photo: NRL Images.

nrl ladder & fixtures

WW49239

ROUND 25

here ’ s cheers

NAME: KALINDA GORSUCH AGE: 21 SUBURB: CRANEBROOK

Seasons as a Pantherette? Four.

Favourite Food? Potato Bake.

Favourite TV show? ‘Family Guy’.

Favourite Panthers Player? Dylan Edwards.

Must-follow social media account?

@_aussiefitness

Go to pump up song? ‘Rhyme Dust’, Mk & Dom Dolla.

What do you love about being a

Pantherette? Starting off as a Kitty Kat when I was young, it was always my childhood dream to become a Pantherette! I am so grateful to be in my fourth season with the club! I love dancing with my friends on the field and cheering on my favourite NRL team!

If you were stranded on a desert island, who are you bringing with you and why? I would bring my dad so he can protect me!

face in the crowd WW51565

panther rumblings

WAITING GAME ON EDWARDS DEAL

! Edwards deal still not done: The Panthers may not get a new contract with superstar fullback Dylan Edwards sorted before the Finals. Penrith met with Edwards’ management last week and it’s understood the length of the deal remains a sticking point. The Panthers are keen to ensure Edwards doesn’t hit the open market on November 1 but also won’t disrupt the club’s Finals campaign, which could delay negotiations.

! Door open for Luai: Five-eighth Jarome Luai may still test the open market with a new management company after November 1 but the door has been opened for the 26-year-old to deal with the club directly. His former management company will waive the termination clause that would have delayed any deal being done, according to multiple sources. Luai would save a significant chunk of cash in agent fees if he did a deal directly.

! Broncos out to stop three-peat: Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has stopped short of declaring Brisbane his side’s biggest threat to pulling off an unprecedented NRL threepeat, but admits they’re in sensational form. “They’ve had an outstanding season. They’re very dangerous and a very good team,” he said. “They’re a threat, for sure. There’s lots of teams that are capable this season. It’s been a very evenly fought year.”

! Week of celebration: It’s been a big week for Panthers hooker Luke Sommerton (pictured below). Not only did he make his NRL debut against the Sea Eagles last Thursday night, but a few days ago he celebrated his three year anniversary with girlfriend Kiera. Sommerton had plenty of friends and family watching on at 4 Pines Park last week.

! Spotted: Panthers Media Manager Michael Blok looking supremely fit undertaking the City2Surf on Sunday.

! Not a Bunker blunder: NRL Head of Football Graham Annesley has admitted Stephen Crichton’s second try against Manly in the first half last Thursday should never have

happened given Liam Martin knocked the ball on during the previous play. But Annesley has confirmed The Bunker could not intervene –given the try was not scored in the same play as the knock-on. Most fans knew that but a few supporters, and even a couple of journos, blew up at The Bunker over the weekend. It was simply missed in the run of play – understandable when you look at the replay in full speed.

! Taylan time: Nobody was more surprised that injured winger Taylan May was put up for media interviews on Tuesday than the man himself. The 21-year-old, who is continuing his long ACL recovery, was available to the media this week for the first time this season. I’m told it was Penrith coach Ivan Cleary who suggested May be made available – perhaps helping him get some confidence ahead of his NRL return next year.

! International fixtures locked in: A Pacific Championship involving international men’s and women’s teams has been locked in for the end of the year. The Pacific Championships will be staged in 2023 and 2024, after the NRL and NRLW Premiership seasons, and will include men’s and women’s teams from Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Cook Islands. The Federal Government has chipped in to help fund the tournament, with games in Queensland, Victoria, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

! Spill the tea: I don’t keep secrets, but I do

Dylan Edwards. Photo: Megan Dunn.

MAY’S UNLIKELY DISTRACTION FROM NRL

that – not afraid to be different and test the boundaries a little.

Chess.

One of the oldest and most widely played games on the planet has a bunch of Panthers hooked.

More on that soon.

On Tuesday, Extra Time had the opportunity to chat one-on-one with injured Penrith winger Taylan May for the first time this season.

At coach Ivan Cleary’s request, May’s availability to the media this week was an opportunity for him to give Panthers fans an update on his season-ending knee injury and what the past six months of recovery and rehab has been like for the soon-to-be 22-year-old.

But in classic May fashion, the man marches to his own beat and the seven-minute interview was largely filled with content that wasn’t entirely footy related.

Funnily enough, it was refreshing. While most players offer up the cliché lines whenever they speak, May isn’t like

The 9am interview kicked off with questions about how he’s coped with missing 24 rounds of the NRL this season before it very quickly turned to life away from the footy field and what he’s been doing to occupy himself during this unscheduled ‘gap year’ from the game.

“The first two weeks after my injury were hard but now that I’ve got over it and did my grieving, it’s been pretty easy from here,” May told Extra Time

“Having a wife and kid at home, I’m able to spend more time with them and it allows me to see life outside of footy, because my life’s just not about footy.”

In late June, while his teammates were on the road playing the Storm in Melbourne, May got married to the love of his life, Jess. He said tying the knot has been “the best thing” he’s done this year and switching off from the game he loves has been rather therapeutic.

His time out has also allowed May to return to some old hobbies, like boxing, and take up some new ones, like chess.

Yes, chess. The two-player game that dates back some 1500 years is now infiltrating the Panthers Rugby League Academy, with May the ‘king’ of the squad.

The Samoan international said he used to play chess regularly online but ended up switching to a physical chess board due to his “bad” eyesight. Since then, he started getting his teammates involved and now it’s become quite a ‘thing’.

We’ll let May take it from here…

“I play with [Izack] Tago and that, he’s pretty good. Spencer [Leniu] got into it too, he got good pretty quick. Marto (Liam Martin), he’s one of the best and even Romey (Jarome Luai). A few of the boys… you’d be surprised… get into chess,” May explained.

“We play here at the Academy and away from here too. I’ve got my own travel chess board. We all get into it, it’s pretty competitive.”

Asked what sort of chess board the team play on and who’s the best of the bunch, May was very honest with his answer.

“It’s me, Tago and Marto – we are top three but it’s always switching,” he said.

“Tago can beat Marto, but I struggle against Marto, but I can beat Tago, so it’s a bit of a weird one.

“We do play on a fancy board in the Academy. We did have a normal one, but it’s been

upgraded to a fancy one with characters – it’s pretty mad.”

Mad, indeed.

Following the ins and outs of Panthers Chess Club for a few minutes, the chat resumed to footy and May’s impending comeback in 2024.

Since his absence this year, Sunia Turuva hasn’t let anyone down wearing May’s old jumper and it’s unlikely he’ll need to return it even when May is fit and healthy again.

And May doesn’t want it back either, declaring he wants a positional change when he does eventually return.

“It’s no secret that I want to play in the centres,” May revealed, who’s added plenty of muscle to his upper body.

“I don’t see myself as a winger anymore. Obviously, if I have to play there I will, but I see myself more as a centre anyways. I feel like I can do more there.”

As for how the rest of the year pans out –May will continue ticking boxes in his rehab, dominating chess, and cheering on an historic Panthers three-peat from the stands.

“I’ve been running a fair bit lately and I think I’m ahead of schedule,” May said.

“For me, it’s not hard to watch games. Each player is different, but I don’t struggle watching. I just wish the best for the boys.

“Seeing them win makes me happy. It feels like I’m there anyway because they make me feel a part of it, so that’s the main thing.”

Checkmate.

Taylan May has been a spectator on the sideline this season. Photo: NRL Images.

Taylan May is beginning his comeback on the training paddock. Photo: Panthers Media.

NATHAN TAYLOR

NO REST FOR TO’O AS FINALS LOOM

points heading into Round 25, with the coveted Minor Premiership race set to go down to the wire.

As Penrith count down the weeks until Finals footy, superstar Panthers winger Brian To’o says he refuses to rest even if he gets the tap on the shoulder from coach Ivan Cleary. “Hell no! I don’t want to rest,” the 24-yearold told Extra Time on Tuesday.

“I love putting on the Panthers jersey and there’s nothing more I want to do than to play for this team, play for the boys. I don’t want to rest at all, to be honest.”

While To’o is very defiant towards having a week off, it may not be his call with coach Cleary determined to preserve his best players ahead of another hard-fought NRL Finals Series.

To’o said with his best mates in Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu moving on at season’s end, he wants to make the most of his time with the pair.

“Even though I’ll see them outside of footy, you live these moments to the fullest and that’s something I really want to do,” he said.

“Especially for the boys that are departing in Spencer and Critta as well – you just want to make the most of everything.”

The Panthers are once again favourites for this year’s Premiership, but they do have a worthy challenger in the Brisbane Broncos breathing down their neck.

Both sides are on equal competition

To’o said he’s been impressed with the Broncos in 2023, but believes they aren’t Penrith’s only threat in achieving a magical three-peat.

“Every team is up there,” he said.

“Brisbane are a very competitive team as well and have come a long way over the past two or three years now.

“I’m really happy for them to see where they are at. They are heading towards the top as well and I’m looking forward to seeing them later down the track.”

Before a potential match-up with the Broncos in September, the Panthers will make what is likely their final trip up north this season when they travel to the Gold Coast to play the Titans.

The Titans have had a rollercoaster season to say the least. Not only did they sack their coach Justin Holbrook mid-season, but they’ve also dealt with an array of distraction surrounding the contracts of their best players David Fifita and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui.

To’o labelled Saturday night’s clash at Cbus Super Stadium a “danger game”.

“The Titans are a tough, quality side,” he said.

“Every team is competitive and they’ve got their few superstars in there like Brimo (AJ Brimson), Tino and Fifita.

“We’ll definitely prepare well for another

Brian To’o during Penrith’s win over Manly last week. Photo: NRL Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

POSITION: SECOND ROW | NRL DEBUT: JULY 2022 (FOR BRONCOS)

WEIGHT: 97KG |

HEIGHT: 198CM |

DOB: 26/02/97 |

analysis

Over the last two years the Panthers have embarked on an impressive recruitment drive which has seen the majority of key players tied up for many years to come. If you thought signing Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Moses Leota, Brian To’o and Liam Martin until the end of 2027 was impressive – you ain’t seen nothing yet!

That list of players alone would probably be enough to keep the Panthers competitive and in the Top 8 for the next four years. However, Panthers CEO Matt Cameron and the retention committee are already working on contract extensions for Dylan Edwards and Jarome Luai, with Mitch Kenny, Sunia Turuva and Lindsay Smith soon to follow.

Now some contracts will take longer than others to finalise, such is the complexity of contracts in the modern game of rugby league, especially if you’re a Penrith player and your value just keeps going up every year because of the success you’re enjoying being part of a winning team.

Of all the names on the list to re-sign, Dylan Edwards is probably the closest to being finalised. The length of Edwards’ contract is the sticking point now more than the amount.

‘Pickles’ has been hyped in the

media as a ‘million-dollar a year player’ and while the amount he’ll re-sign for will be less than that, it will be close enough to keep him in Panthers colours.

I’ll save Jarome until last because he’s the one attracting the most attention and speculation from the media.

Mitch Kenny is signed until the end of 2024 and he’s gotten better as the year’s gone on. The coach and club see him as the team’s long-term hooker and while official talks have not yet begun, there’s no doubt the club want to keep him longer than one more year. Kenny has worked hard to become the team’s number one hooker, he’s happy and it’s hard to see him playing in any other team’s colours.

Following Kenny, the whispers have started that Sunia Turuva and Lindsay Smith are also in line

for contract extensions. Both have proven themselves as first grade starters this season and are in the club’s long-term plans.

The one thing we do know is that all players will be offered what the club can afford under the salary cap. Some may elect not to take it and go for more money elsewhere and that is their right.

The salary cap may be going up each year but so are players’ price tags.

However apart from Edwards, the only other player I regard as a ‘sure-thing’ to stay is Jarome Luai, even though the maintram media keep pushing the line that he is the one in most

danger of leaving.

That’s not going to happen, CEO Matt Cameron is confident of keeping ‘Romey’ long-term, coach Ivan Cleary also wants him to stay while Nathan Cleary says he’s like another brother.

“Musicians don’t retire, they stop when there’s no more music in them,” said singer and trumpet player Louis Armstrong.

Well, that ‘Boom Box’ that Luai carries everywhere with him will be belting out music around Panthers players at training for many more years to come.

Even if it won’t be the dulcet tones of the great ‘Satchmo’. Ahhh, what a wonderful world.

Mitch Kenny is becoming a fan favourite.

Photo: NRL Images.

with Peter Lang

I’ve just spent another week with him as part of the Professional Darts Corporation’s annual World Series visit to Australia.

He comes to call darts, but contorts himself to get to the NRL. This year he made Parramatta against St George-Illawarra, Manly at home to Penrith and Newcastle’s win against Canterbury.

Pykey watches carefully, takes mental notes, asks the occasional question, and throws up even more occasional observations.

Last week as half-time drew near at McDonald Jones Stadium, as he gazed out onto the field, nothing moved except his lips. “It looks like Canterbury don’t train. It looks like they’ve just met each other.”

It was as if he was thinking out loud. Just a travelling Englishman lost in the moment.

It was 30-nil to Newcastle and the game was over as a contest before the break.

At half-time he asked how many people live in western Sydney. I guessed three million-plus and he swung his head in shock.

“No! And they’ve only got one decent footy team.”

He wasn’t JUST referring to Canterbury’s first half, Parramatta

analysis the western weekender • extra time » 48 Friday, August 18, 2023 �� ANDREW’S CORNER STORE �� AMPOL FOODARY �� ASTLEY PHARMACY �� CASSANDRA’S ON QUEEN �� GUIDO’S HAIR CARE �� JAYAM SUPERMARKET �� MCDONALD’S ST MARYS SOUTH �� MONFARVILLE CORNER STORE �� QUEEN ST NEWSAGENCY �� ST MARYS BAND CLUB �� ST MARYS FISH MARKET �� ST MARYS LEAGUES CLUB �� ST MARYS LIBRARY �� ST MARYS PHARMACY QUEEN ST �� ST MARYS PIZZA HUT �� ST MARYS RSL �� ST MARYS VILLAGE �� WAGON WHEEL HOTEL �� WALTER’S NEWSAGENCY westernweekender.com.au/getapaper St Marys locals can pick the paper up at the following locations: ST MARYS we’ve got you covered

tuart Pyke is a UK sports broadcaster who likes his darts but has a passion for rugby league.The Bulldogs looking dejected last weekend. Photo: NRL Images.

being beaten 54-10 and last placed Wests Tigers tumbling to a 10th straight loss.

This will be the Bulldogs’ seventh straight season without Finals footy. And in that run, they haven’t finished higher than 11th. The Eels are famously still chasing their first Premiership since 1986. The poor Tigers are about to miss Finals for a 12th consecutive season and will underline that by taking consecutive wooden spoons.

“Lucky western Sydney has Penrith,” mused my English mate.

The Panthers look better each time they play and will take some stopping in their quest for a third

straight title. Still, Stuart Pyke is right, western Sydney is big enough – and only getting bigger - to have more NRL success than it’s had over the last decade.

Pykey lives in St Helens and supports its Super League team with fervour.

(Ask him about the hotel television smashed by a flying remote when a contentious call went against his Saints… and the darts’ executive who had to pick up the tab!)

He can rattle off all their stars, run through their classic games, and talk about their multiple titles all day. In Pykey’s mind the win

against Penrith earlier this year is akin with the moon landing!

“And all from a City of 180,000,” he beams. (I can hear the voice of darts Russ Bray screeching 180!)

So, from Pykey to the Eels, Bulldogs and Tigers – pull your finger out! Give the population what you should! Oh, and be glad you don’t live near a beach!

When I invited my broadcast buddy for a Wollongong swim on a warm, sunny, still day, I should have known the response.

“The sand is too soft, the water is too cold and there’s too many sharks. Plus it’s bad for my ears.” Whinging bloody Poms.

1. I had two stints at the Panthers in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

2. I’m a Queenslander.

3. I was awarded an Order of Australia medal in 2020.

4. I once coached the Brisbane Broncos.

5. I had a job on radio at 2KA in Penrith.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER: Ryan Girdler.

CAN YOU SEEK OUT

THE HIDDEN

Brought to you by

CUP BACK WITHIN FINALS REACH lower grades

A28-18 win over the Blacktown Workers

Sea Eagles has seen the Penrith Panthers climb back to within one point of the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup top five.

The hard-fought win at Parker Street Reserve on Friday night saw the Panthers sneak ahead of Blacktown on the ladder with two rounds to play.

Penrith were on the back foot for much of the first half, however back-to-back tries to Eddie Blacker and Preston Riki midway through the half saw them take a 12-0 lead to half-time.

Liam Henry continued the trend of middle forwards scoring when Trent Toelau sent him over on the last tackle in the 53rd minute before Kurt Falls further extended the lead eight minutes later with a solo effort.

lower grades report

The Sea Eagles struck back almost immediately from the kick-off through Jackson Ferris, however that try was quickly cancelled out when Matt Stimson went over with 10 minutes remaining.

Two tries in the final five minutes, the second of which was an eight-point try after late contact by Daeon Amituanai, cost the Panthers potentially valuable points on for-and-against, however the 28-18 win was just enough for them to jump ahead of the Sea Eagles on the ladder.

Meanwhile, a disappointing second half at 4 Pines Park on Thursday evening has left the Panthers clinging to third in Jersey Flegg, going down to Manly 16-14.

Lehi Hopoate got the hosts off to a fast start, scoring in the sixth minute, before Blake Moore put the Panthers in front in the 15th when he stepped inside the sliding Sea Eagles defence.

A pinpoint kick by Liam Ison bounced perfectly for Timothy Sielaff-Burns to extend the

Panthers’ lead to 10-4 on the half-time siren.

The Panthers started the second half on the right note, with Wilson de Courcey scoring a try on debut.

Two quick Manly tries followed to snatch

the lead 16-14 and that was where the score remained at full-time.

In Round 24, NSW Cup is away to minor premiers North Sydney on Sunday, while Jersey Flegg travels to Melbourne to face the Storm.

Penrith lost to Manly in Jersey Flegg last week. Photo: NRL Images.

COWBOYS WARRIORS ROOSTERS DOLPHINS PANTHERS STORM

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PREPARE FOR AN EMOTIONAL RIDE

For musician Samuel Gaskin, expression and celebration of cultural identity isn’t something to shy away from.

In preparation for his current venture ‘Reckoning’ to come to Parramatta’s Riverside Theatre, he revisited the moment the idea first came to him, just a few years ago.

“‘Reckoning’ came about after a trip I took back home to Aotearoa to perform with Yothu Yindi and The Treaty Project, a song I had written with them at a festival back home for Waitangi Day,” he said.

“I just saw the power of having both Maori and Aboriginal mob together.”

Though he originally thought of it as a music project, Gaskin recalls realising ‘Reckoning’ could be so much more – to the point where now, he doesn’t really know what it is.

“It’s the music, but it’s also a one-hour theatre show,” he said.

“It’s this thing that I still find hard to name four years later, because I still don’t like to call it a show. It feels like something more than that that I just can’t put a name to.”

Like many artists, Gaskin was met with a roadblock in the form of a global pandemic back in 2020, which saw him shift gears and turn ‘Reckoning’ into an online experience with the help of the Melbourne Fringe.

Though over the past four years, the show has changed plenty, it remains a very personal story for Gaskin, and one that also interlinks

with the other cast members in the experience.

“It’s really about embracing those parts of yourself that you may have pushed away to fit in in this colonised world that we live in, but particularly about the power of embracing your Indigenous bloodlines, and knowing your ancestry, and knowing who your ancestors are and where you’ve come from, and also what work your ancestors have put in for you to be able to be here, thriving and shining today,” he said.

Now headed on a national tour, there are a few moments Gaskin admits he can’t wait for audiences to see for the first time.

“Without a doubt, my favourite part of the show is a number called ‘Rain’, which leads into the finale,” he said.

“My favourite part is seeing nine fierce, fabulous, brilliant Aboriginal and Maori performers all on stage at the same time.

“To see us all singing as one with two beautiful languages overlapping is always a really special moment.

“People considering coming to the show need to bring a box of tissues, a glass of champagne, and their dancing shoes, because they are going to experience a whole gamut of heart opening emotions, and they’re going to want to dance after they’ve just cried, after they’ve just been hugging the person next to them.”

Reckoning will be on at Riverside Theatres in Parramatta on Thursday, August 24 at 7.30pm. Tickets start at $43. For more information or to book, visit riversideparramatta.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

Stardust Circus is visiting Penrith Paceway until this Sunday. This is a perfect opportunity to bring the whole family and experience fun, excitement and wonder. With a fantastic array of talent and the inclusion of clowns, dogs, goats, ponies, incredible aerial performances, and everything in between, this should not be missed! Visit stardustcircus.com.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

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

Penrith Markets

Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

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

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

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

Tribute to Olivia

Luddenham Country Market is a family favourite Susannah Mirana delivers the ultimate tribute to Olivia Newton-John in this unforgettable night of music and nostalgia. Prepare to be mesmerised by Susannah's pure voice and her undeniable resemblance in this must-not-miss show performing at the EVAN Theatre on Friday, August 18. For more information and to book, visit penrith.panthers.com.au.

This Sunday, August 20, Luddenham Country Market will be returning to Luddenham Showground. Enjoy a lazy Sunday drive and then browse through the array of stalls available. There will be food and retail stalls plus variable amusements that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Come and enjoy a day supporting local small businesses and enjoy the fresh outdoors.

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Probus Club of Nepean

Meets on the first Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club Leonay from 10.30am.

Penrith NASHO’s

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

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

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

Red Cross Penrith

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

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

Nepean Food Services

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

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

MUSEUMS

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

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

Arms of Australia Inn

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

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

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

Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

The circus is in town

Ê I know I’m late to the party, but I can see why Binge / Foxtel’s ‘Colin from Accounts’ won so many awards at this year’s Logies. It was such a fantastic, well written and well-acted series that it doesn’t surprise me one bit that it was renewed for a second season last week. The series stars creators and real-life married couple Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer as two strangers brought together by a car accident and an injured dog. Both won Outstanding Acting awards while the series won Outstanding Comedy at last month’s Logies. The pair will return to write, star and executive produce, however Dyer recently confirmed writing would not commence until the WGA strike had resolved in the United States. All going well, more episodes of ‘Colin from Accounts’ should come out in late 2024.

Ê One of my favourite shows in recent years, ‘The Newsreader’, is returning with season two on Sunday, September 10 at 8.30pm on the ABC. A year on from the events of series one, we meet Helen (Anna Torv) and Dale (Sam Reid), now established as ‘The Golden Couple of News’. To the out-

side world, they present a glowing image of success and romance… but the truth is more complex. As 1987 rolls along, global stocks will soar and crash, Australia will prepare to celebrate its Bicentennial year, and Helen and Dale grapple with who they really want to be in life – and whether that path can be together. In some exciting news, the ABC will also drop a companion ‘The Newsreader Podcast’, with fans Leigh Sales and Lisa Miller, dropping each Sunday night across the series.

Ê Former tennis star Todd Woodbridge is expected to be announced as host of Channel Nine’s new 5pm game show ‘Tipping Point’. While no official confirmation has come through yet, it’s looking likely the doubles champion will get the gig.

Ê New 7mate observational series ‘Outback Farm’ will premiere this Tuesday, August 22 at 8.30pm. The six-part series, narrated

by Jason Donovan, centres around Anthony and Danyelle Haigh, who start their new life converting a failed, desert farm into a hay growing business and tourist park.

Ê If you missed the live-action version of ‘The Little Mermaid’ in cinemas recently, I have good news for you – it’s being released on Disney+ on Wednesday, September 6. Disney+ subscribers will also be able to access special bonus content from the movie as well.

Ê Five new ‘I Am Groot’ shorts drop on Disney+ from Wednesday, September 6. The troublemaking twig returns to mischief in the second season. This time, Baby Groot finds himself exploring the universe and beyond aboard the Guardians’ spaceships, coming face-to-face – or nose-to-nose – with new and colourful creatures and environments.

Ê Happy 2nd Birthday Paramount+!

TV Guide: August 18-24

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

Christian Bale

5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield/ Doomben

*Live* 5:30 Animal SOS Australia (PG) 6:00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

3:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 4:00 Counting Cars (PG) 4:30 AFL: Round 23: GWS v Essendon *Live* From Giants Stadium 7:30 AFL: Round 23: Adelaide v Sydney *Live* From Adelaide Oval 10:30 Movie: “Braveheart” (MA15+) (’95)

1:35 The Goldbergs (PG) 2:35 Movie: “Dolphin Tale” (G) (’11)

Stars: Nathan Gamble 4:55 Movie: “Storm Boy” (PG) (’19)

Stars: Finn Little 7:00 Movie: “Fatherhood” (PG) (’21) Stars: Kevin Hart 9:15 Movie: “The Mule” (M)

10:20 Tony Robinson’s History Of Britain (M) Saturday 19 August

*Live* From Sydney Oval 5:00 Customs (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Support Your Local Gunfighter” (PG) (’71) Stars: James Garner 7:30 Movie: “The Bodyguard” (PG) (’92)

5:30 Adam and Poh’s Great Australian Bites 6:00 Flat Out Food 6:30 Sara’s

Movie: “Zoom: Academy For Superheroes” (PG) (’06) Stars: Tim Allen 7:30 Movie: “Now

You See Me” (PG) (’13) Stars: Jesse Eisenberg 9:45 Movie: “Limitless” (M) (’11)

2:00 Basketball: Australia v France *Live* From Tokyo’s Ariake Arena 4:00 Getaway (PG) 4:30 Movie: “Crossplot” (PG) (’69) Stars: Roger Moore

6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Battle Of Britain” (PG) (’69) Stars: Michael Caine

Get Macca’s® delivered.

Thursday 24 August

4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30

Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown (M) 8:30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke (M v)

6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 The Simpsons (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo” (M l,s) (’05) Stars: Rob Schneider

5:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Modern Family (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 Chicago Fire (M) 10:30 Chicago PD (MA15+) 12:30 Private Practice (M)

6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Africa’s Hidden Kingdoms (PG) 7:30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30 The Walk-In

The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 DNA Family Secrets (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro (PG)

At three hours in length, there is a risk that the run time of Christopher Nolan’s epic ‘Oppenheimer’ could overshadow the qualities of the film. And while there is an argument that you could shave a good 20 to 30 minutes off the movie, there’s no doubt that the film delivers an insightful, smart and engaging look into the life of the “father” of the atomic bomb.

If you think you’re going to see explosive scenes recreating the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, you’d be mistaken. Nolan opts to focus on the personal reactions of the Americans, like Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), to portray the impact of the bombings and the lives lost.

It is a common theme through the film: focus on reactions, faces, personalities. This story is told through expression, and it is de-

livered exceptionally well – especially when it comes to vibrant close-ups.

And it is not just Oppenheimer himself who earns the focus here. We see his wife Kitty (Emily Blunt), and the difference she could have made – if only someone had listened to her. Her reactions, particularly when it comes to being delivered covert lines like “bring the sheets in”, are meaningful and have plenty of impact.

You’re not going to get a bright and happy experience with ‘Oppenheimer’. This is a tough watch at times, but it’s an interesting story that will be a winner with war history buffs, for sure.

It’s not a movie I’d necessarily re-visit, and I found it a little jumpy at times in terms of timeline, but I’m glad I saw it.

– Troy Dodds

NEW ERA IN POT PLANT DESIGN

Designed with precision and style in Portugal, ceramic pot brand, Borralheira is known for its stoneware products that are made using locally sourced clay and a specialised in-house formulation.

Borralheira, a family-owned business founded in 1978, is now making its debut in the Australian market with its ceramic plant pots in three new exquisite designs.

The three designs; Herringbone, Palm and Cos Bar encapsulate the rich heritage and artistry of Portuguese ceramics and are crafted with sustainability in mind throughout the entire production process.

“The water used in the clays and glazes is harvested from the rain and every rejected product and excess of raw material used is reintroduced in the production process to avoid waste,” said Christine Abdal, National Sales and Marketing Manager at Mayo Hardware.

Created from high-quality ceramic, all the Borralheira ranges are durable and 100 per cent waterproof, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

“Plants are the perfect accessory to revitalise a room or space in your home. You can experiment with striking sculptural types or soft lush leafy varieties. You can also customise the finished look to suit your space by varying your plants, and adding your own personal style,” Abdal said.

– orange and yellow. The classic Herringbone design and glossy finish make a statement in the home, and with two sizes, 13cm (RRP $12.98) and 18cm (RRP $18.98) can easily be styled in a group arrangement to elevate the ambience.

Ideal for adding a pop of colour to the home, the Borralheira Herringbone Pot Plant is available in two rich earthy tones

If you are wanting to bring a tropical element into a room or space, the Borralheira Palm Pot Plant range is perfect. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the Palm range is available in three sizes; 14cm (RRP $13.98), 16cm (RRP $16.98) and 18cm (RRP $27.98) and two on-trend colourways, sage green and sand. You can bring shelves to life by mixing plants of different shapes and sizes; choose from upright, trailing and small potted plants. Go for similar-shaped pots in a single colour for a unified look. Pop trailing species on higher shelves so they have plenty of space to tumble down.

For a timeless and versatile addition to the home, the Borralheira Cos Bar Pot Plant range

available in classic monochromatic black and white options offer statement pieces. With their bold, contemporary vertical textured silhouette, all you need is a touch of greenery to add impact to a prominent spot such as a kitchen island, sideboard, or a beautiful table centrepiece. The Cos Bar design is available in two sizes, 15cm (RRP $13.98) and 18cm (RRP $18.98).

The Borralheira Pot Plant ranges are all available at Bunnings Warehouse nationwide or via their website.

Explore all your flooring, rug & window furnishing options instantly with our room visualiser. Use on your desktop, tablet or mobile without any app to download. Simply upload a photo of your room & select from thousands of products. Try it now at choicesflooring.com

Choices

“PLANTS ARE THE PERFECT ACCESSORY TO REVITALISE A ROOM OR SPACE IN YOUR HOME“

This is your last opportunity to secure a luxury apartment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the heart of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apartment features ample floor space, sophisticated style and the finest finishes.

Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction, the residence is completed to a high standard with:

• Miele oven, gas cooktop, rangehood, built-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

• Ground floor entry, two levels of secure parking and a communal rooftop with barbeque facilities

Apartment G.03 3 2 2

Interior 111sqm

Exterior 33sqm

Total 144sqm

Price $829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

ORAN PARK

Very Happy Sellers Happy Vendor SOLD SOLD

Gizzelle,

“

you are amazing! You have done it again! We are very happy with Gizzelle’s service and transparency, that’s why we have decided to sell with her again. If you are thinking of selling or buying, we highly recommend

Gizzelle Powell of RE/MAX Lifestyle Marketing ”

DAVID & CATHY, KINGSWOOD

– Verified by RateMyAgent

Thank

Thank you Litsa for a wonderful experience. After seeing how you managed the sale of my daughter’s house for record price, I had supreme confidence in managing ours also. We’re extremely pleased with the results and Litsa hand holding us through the process. She is always available and help ease our anxiety. We sold in a dying market but somehow Litsa managed to get the sale in the top end of our asking price. This shows her skills and intimate knowledge of our area. If you need a reference, please do not hesitate to contact me. Kind regards Elizabeth & Alex.

Outer Western Sydney

73 Minchin Drive, Minchinbury

OPEN HOME

Contact Agent

Sat 19 August at 12:00pm - 12:45pm

For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1257901/

• Spacious bedrooms with built-in wardrobes

• Living areas featuring massive windows

• Ducted air conditioning

• Alfresco overlooking swimming pool

• Freshly painted throughout

• Stylish kitchen with plenty of cupboard space

$949,950

For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1281074/

2 Anchorage Street, St

• Large galley-style designer kitchen

• Sleek-styled bathrooms

• Separate office/study room

• Remote control large double lock-up garage

• Multiple-zone ducted air-conditioning

• Sun-drenched entertainer’s alfresco

22/22-32 Hall Street, St Marys

Contact Agent

Sat 19 August at 10:45am - 11:15am

22/22-32

• Located in a quiet complex

For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1162605/

Just Listed

For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1284822/

OPEN HOME

159 Queen Street, St Marys

23 Verdi Glen, St Clair OPEN HOME OPEN HOME

Sought

• This modern unit offers a prestigious lifestyle and is situated in prime location of St Marys

• Spacious bathroom

• Open plan living & dining area

• Large balcony access from living & main bedroom

• Well secured single car space and storage cage

• Perfect for the investor or first home buyer

$545,000 - $560,000 INSPECT Sat 19 August at 1:30pm - 2:00pm

159 Queen Street, St Marys

Professionals St Marys 9673 4422

Hansen 0418 245 683

For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1260886/

OPEN HOME

Member Name Goes Here Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains

24/175 Derby Street, Penrith

• Top floor unit in prime location

• Spacious living design with high ceilings

• 2 good-sized bedrooms

• Galley-style kitchen

• Large under cover balcony area

• Close to Penrith CBD, Kmart shopping complex, schools, bus stops

$349,950

INSPECT Sat 19 August at 10:00am - 10:30am

ADDRESS 24/175 Derby Street, Penrith

CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

28 Leonay Parade, Leonay – 2230m2 Vacant Land

Rare As Hen’s Teeth

• Amazing redevelopment opportunity

• Vacant 2230m2 allotment

• B1 Zoning

Auction 2nd September at 10am On Site

• Backs onto Leonay Golf Course

• Childcare centre & shops located right beside

• 2 minute drive to M4 Motorway

New Listing

AUCTION 2nd September, 2023 at 10am On Site

ADDRESS 28 Leonay Parade, Leonay

CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

So Close to the Penrith CBD

PENRITH VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE

(Floor plan below for 2/143 Coreen Avenue, Penrith)

EASING REQUIREMENTS TO HELP APPLICATIONS

With cost-of-living pressures and higher interest rates really starting to have an impact on the economy, banks have made it easier for some borrowers to refinance their home loans by relaxing conditions that enable people to qualify for finance.

The banking watchdog, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), has expected lenders to add three percentage points to new and refinanced loans from their current level. That means a new customer offered a 6.0 per cent variable interest rate would be assessed to see if they can still repay the loan at 9.0 per cent.

Many borrowers who

took out loans in recent years have been struggling to qualify for new loans with better rates due to these strict serviceability standards imposed by APRA.

But we have seen some lenders come to the party by allowing existing mortgage holders to refinance their loans at a reduced buffer of one per cent.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) is among the lenders to make these changes to serviceability requirements, although the deal has only been extended to mortgage holders with a good repayment history. People who bought properties under

bility schemes or have poor repayment histories are excluded.

To be eligible for the reduced refinancing offer, borrowers must meet certain criteria, including having a loan that has been open for 12 months or more, a loan-to-value ratio better than 80 per cent, and no delinquency of payments

A HOME

You may have noticed recently the government funded ad discussing the possibility of using your super to purchase your first home. The aim of the policy is to make it easier for first home owners to enter the market.

Since July 1 2017, individuals have been able to make voluntary contributions (eg salary sacrifice and non-concessional contributions) of up to $15,000 per year and $50,000 in total, to their super account to purchase a first home. These limits apply to each individual so a couple can contribute up to $30,000 per year and $100,000 in total. Voluntary contributions under this scheme must be made within existing super caps.

Withdrawals of the contributed amounts along with the deemed earnings was allowed from July 1 2018. The amount of earnings that can be released will be calculated using a deemed rate of return based on the 90-day Bank Bill rate

across loans with CBA or other banks in the past 12 months.

CBA home buying executive general manager Michael Baumann told The Australian newspaper the bank recognised that “some homeowners are facing challenges refinancing their loans”. Thousands of mortgage holders coming off low interest fixed rates in the coming months and the prospect of much higher rates due to the Reserve Bank’s substantial increase in the cash rate over the last 12 months, will be looking to refinance their home loans. The team at Bell Partners can assist borrowers to ensure they are able to pass the serviceability test and secure a loan.

plus three percentage points (currently this equates to 7.3%).

Eligibility is assessed on an individual basis. This means that couples, siblings or friends can each access their own eligible FHSS contributions to purchase the same property. If any of you have previously owned a home, it will not stop anyone else who is eligible from applying.

The withdrawals of concessional contributions and associated earnings will be taxed at the individual’s marginal tax rate, less a 30 per cent tax offset. When non-concessional amounts are withdrawn, they will not be taxed, but we anticipate that the earnings will be taxed at the individual’s marginal tax rate, less a 30 per cent tax offset.

The First Home Super Saver Scheme will be administered by the Australian Tax Office (ATO), which will determine the amount of contributions that can be released and will instruct super funds to make these

withdrawal payments. The ATO will also be responsible for compliance to ensure that people purchase their first home after they withdraw from super for their deposit.

The essence of the scheme is that we are able to get concessions for saving for our first home. No doubt, this is a good thing but, there are limitations and considerations.

The investment strategy for these savings should be different to the strategy for the rest of the funds in superannuation. This is definitely not a one-size-fitsall strategy for those saving for their first home but, in many cases, it is a another worthwhile strategy.

Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

The Experts

EXPLAINER: WHAT IS THE ASD ESSENTIAL EIGHT?

The ASD Essential Eight (E8) is a set of eight cybersecurity mitigation strategies developed by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) to help organisations and individuals protect themselves from cyber threats. The ASD Essential Eight is designed to be a baseline set of security controls organisations of all sizes can implement. They do not guarantee perfect security, but they can help significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks.

The idea behind the Essential Eight is that as you apply each of the eight identified areas to your business, you lock down and secure your business from threats like Malware, Viruses, Phishing, Identity Theft, Fraud, Data Loss, and Harassment. While there is a list of Eight categories, each category has multiple sub-tasks and three levels of achievement.

The Essential Eight strategies are:

1. Application control: Using software to control which

HOW TO DEAL WITH FISSURES

Fissures are cracks or splits in the skin that occur at weight-bearing areas secondary to tensile stress. These cracks can be bothersome or unsightly and when too deep, pressure when walking or standing can be painful. Heel fissures first begin with the growth of callus (thickened, dry and hard skin) around the margin of the heels, leading to small visible cracks. If left untreated, these cracks develop deeper as increased pressure is placed on the heels. In extreme cases, the cracks become so deep that they bleed.

Anyone can get cracked heels. Prolonged standing on hard surfaces, open backed footwear and excessive weight can contribute to splitting or cracking of the skin. Other risk factors include hypothyroidism, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and diabetes.

It is important to treat open fissures as they can be a portal for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and

cellulitis. Individuals with diabetes mellitus should be particularly careful as fissures can lead to diabetic foot ulcers in those with neuropathy (loss of feeling).

Therefore, performing daily foot checks is crucial to ensure there are no cracks or ulcers present.

If you have cracked heels or notice callus starting to develop, it is recommended you see a podiatrist for safe debridement. This painless process involves using a scalpel to remove the callus around your heels (this should not be tried at home as removing too much skin can increase the risk of infection). Your podiatrist may then use a disposable

applications can run on a computer or network. This can help to prevent malicious applications from being installed or executed.

2. Patch applications: Applying security updates to software as soon as they are available. Security updates can fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.

3. Configure Microsoft Office macro settings: Macros are tiny programs that can be embedded in Office docu-

ments. They can be used to deliver malware.

4. User application hardening: Configuring user accounts and devices to reduce the risk of unauthorised access or malicious activity.

5. Restrict administrative privileges: Limiting the number of users with administrative privileges on computers and networks.

6. Patch operating systems: Applying security updates to operating systems as soon as

they are available. Security updates can fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.

7. Multi-factor authentication: Requiring users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to authenticate themselves when they login to a system. This can help to prevent unauthorised access, even if a password is compromised.

8. Regular backups: This strategy involves regularly backing up important data. This can help to minimise the impact of a data breach or other incident.

Although the Essential Eight doesn’t guarantee absolute protection, it significantly reduces the risk and allows for a swift recovery, making it a crucial part of any cybersecurity strategy. For more information, Google ‘ASD Essential Eight’. If you want more information on how to apply the E8 strategies to your business, give me a call.

sanding disc to wear down the fissures further. It is crucial to regularly nourish dry skin with emollients for preventative care. Before application, a pumice stone can be gently rubbed against any callus to remove some of the hard skin. Emollients containing urea help to keep the skin more supple and soft by reducing water loss from the epidermis. This is achieved by slowing down evaporation and retaining water in the skin for longer.

Urea also has keratolytic benefits, resulting in soft skin through the promotion of dead skin cell shedding.

Before your cracked heels get worse, see a podiatrist today for assessment, management and advice specifically tailored to you.

THE HIDDEN DANGER THAT LURKS IN HUMAN FOODS

There are many types of artificial sweeteners becoming more commonly used in human foods. The most concerning is Xylitol.

Xylitol is found in various products, including:

• Candy and gum

• Chewable or gummy vitamins

• Breath mints

• Mouthwash

• Peanut butter

• Sugar-free desserts

But read the labels carefully, Xylitol can also be recognised as birch sugar, birch sap, birch bark extract, or wood sugar making it even more confusing to the consumer.

In humans, Xylitol is very slowly absorbed but in dogs it is absorbed rapidly and induces insulin production. This causes dangerously low

blood sugar levels. This can cause seizures, coma and death. It also causes liver damage which can lead to clotting issues and death. Vomiting is often the first sign of ingestion with other signs including lethargy, diarrhoea and collapse.

How much causes toxicity?

Get the care your pet deserves at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital!

At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your pet is a cherished family member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pet care services to animals across the Penrith district.

The amount that can cause toxicity is very low. It is hard to determine the amount of Xylitol in some foods as its concentration may not be provided. It has been estimated that as little as one piece of gum in a small dog can cause toxicity.

What should I do if my dog has ingested Xylitol?

Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Treatment is more successful the earlier it is started. To determine if a toxic amount has been ingested it is important to know the concentration in the product and the weight of the dog. Decontamination may be indicated if ingestion is recent. There is no anti-

dote to Xylitol so supportive therapy is required. Dogs can still die despite treatment, the prognosis is poor if seizures, coma or liver failure is seen.

How do I know if my dog has ingested Xylitol? There is no test for Xylitol but low blood glucose is the main finding on blood tests.

How can we prevent toxicity?

The best means is for Xylitol containing products to not be present in pet owning households. As with most things prevention is far better than cure.

If you have any questions regarding Xylitol or other potential toxins, please call Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

We offer

•Vaccinations

•Microchipping

•Dental care

•Radiography

•Surgery

Camille and all the staff at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital wish to thank everyone who voted for us in the 2021 Penrith City Local Business Awards. are grateful for the continued support friendship of our clients and their pets.

•Ultrasound

We won the Pet Care category in 2015, and 2019, and we are looking forward to the 2021 awards presentation!

Contact us!

4736 2027

49 Wentworth Road,Orchard Hills, NSW 2748

Monday - Friday: 8:00am-7:00pm Saturday: 8:00am - 2:00pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9.00am-3.00pm

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

Buns are back, but there’s a right way and a wrong way...

Whether you’ve been scrolling on TikTok or looking at photos of your favourite celebrities on the red carpet, there’s no doubt you’ve come across plenty of sleek buns.

Slicked back hair is back in a big way, and I’m hoping it’s here to stay for a little while longer.

It’s the perfect versatile ‘do, that’s perfect for anything from a night out, to just going to the gym. But, there is a right and a wrong way to do it. Here are some of my best tips for creating the perfect ‘clean girl’ bun.

Start with dry (and slightly greasy) hair

Although starting with wet hair can be the easiest way to create a smooth, sleek bun or

ponytail, hair is also the most fragile when wet, meaning that styling it this way can often lead to breakage.

Because of this, it’s definitely best to start with dry hair, but even better for your hair to be a little bit dirty, so it has more grip, and you’re not wasting your best hair days on an updo.

Find your favourite product combination

Hair masks, hairspray,

gel – there are so many options to help you achieve your desired look.

As someone with a background in ballet, and who has naturally curly hair, I take the egg look very seriously. This means layering a hair mask with gel, then often finishing it off with a hairspray to get those flyaways.

If you’re having a particularly hard time slicking everything back, using your hairdryer on a cold setting after applying gel can help to set it all down perfectly.

When it comes to specific products, the Ouai Matte Pomade has also become increasingly popular recently, due to its ability to tame unruly hair without all the asso-

ciated shine. Definitely a winner.

Use the right tools

Using the correct tools is imperative in creating a flawless look.

Of course, you can use any brush or comb you like to detangle your hair. But, I’ve found that using a boar bristle teasing brush is the best way to make sure there are no lumps or bumps when getting your hair into a hair tie.

As for what type of hair tie to use, this will depend greatly on your hair type. Look for one that has grip without the rubber band texture to avoid breakage where possible. For even less damaging options, I like the Kitsch Hair Coils, or the Slip Pure Silk Skinny Scrunchies.

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

www.pancakesontherocks.com.au

By

Relax & Unwind

Have you been questioning your purpose in life? Or do you feel as if you’ve got the worries of the world on your shoulders? Take a step back and view things from a wider perspective. Doing good deeds will leave you with a warm inner glow. So think up some dynamic ways you can help those who are less fortunate – whether locally, nationally or internationally. As Yoko Ono (a fellow Aquarian) observes, “Helping yourself is connected with helping others.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Jupiter and Uranus are in your sign plus the Sun, Mars and Mercury are visiting fellow earth sign Virgo. So it’s time to be the practical and productive Taurus you were born to be. But don’t just focus on facts and figures. Jupiter and Venus push you to expand your creative horizons, as you strive to make the world a better and more beautiful place. Be inspired by birthday great Mother Teresa, “The world is hungry not only for food, but also for beauty.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Expect a rather wonky week for relationships and finances, as Venus reverses through your sign and Mercury starts reversing through your money zone. So love and money are a precarious mix at the moment. Clever Cats – aim to be super patient with your partner, extra kind to your family, and oh-so cooperative with your work colleagues. And keep spending to an absolute minimum, as you curb shopaholic tendencies and stick to a strict weekly budget.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Scorpio is the sign of deep transformation. And this week – with Venus and Mercury both in retrograde mode – it’s time to do anything with an ‘re’ in front of it … revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover, reconnect. Especially in areas involving career, colleagues, peer group, hopes, goals and dreams. Wisdom for the week comes from birthday great Tori Amos, “Sometimes you have to do what you don’t like to get to where you want to be.”

PISCES

The Mars/Neptune and Sun/Saturn oppositions could drain energy and sap confidence so pace yourself and prioritise projects. Don’t commit to an ambitious new plan unless you have the time to follow through on your well-meant intentions. If something can be put off until another week – or completely ditched – then do so. Communicating with loved ones also looks frustrating, as Mercury starts reversing through your relationship zone.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Put on your problem-solving hat! Retrograde Venus and retrograde Mercury reignite your desire to help a friend, neighbour or family member in a creative and hands-on fashion. So you’re keen to tackle a problem (at home or within your local community) in a strategic and (uncharacteristically) patient way. Your motto is from birthday great Mother Teresa, who was born on August 26, 1910, “Love begins by taking care of the closest ones – the ones at home.”

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Mercury (your ruler) starts reversing through your sign on Wednesday night. Mercury is the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the Internet. So – when it’s retrograde – it’s not a good time to sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on a business trip or embark on a holiday.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Revisit your career goals and take steps to make them a reality. But, when it comes to close relationships, keep your cool. And avoid the temptation to overtalk and over-react. You can’t control what others say but you can control your responses. There could also be some tension between shining brightly at work and fulfilling your responsibilities to family and friends. If anyone can juggle, multi-task and have fun, it’s a versatile and humorous Sagittarius.

On Tuesday and Wednesday be on alert for confusing information, fake news and dodgy deals. Mars (your power planet), the Sun and retrograde Mercury are highlighting your health and wellbeing zone. So it’s a suitable week to revise your fitness routine and choose exercises that you really enjoy. Be inspired by actress Blake Lively (who turns 36 on Friday), “I really don’t like the gym. I like experiences, so I take any chance to ride a bicycle or go on a hike.”

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Courtesy of the Sun, Mercury and Mars, the buzz word is communication. Your Crab curiosity is piqued, and you’re keen to connect and converse with a wide range of stimulating people, especially within your local community. But remember Venus is retrograde, and Mercury turns retro on Wednesday night. So relationships will be complicated, and communication will be increasingly tricky. Smart Crabs will slow down, shut up, listen and learn!

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Do you have ridiculously unrealistic expectations about a close relationship?

This week Venus (your patron planet) is in retrograde mode, and Mercury turns retrograde on Wednesday night. So it’s time for a major reality check as you reassess the past, and then bring your full attention to the here and now. Focus on the wise words of birthday great, Mother Teresa, “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Pluto is still transiting slowly through your sign, which amplifies your ambition and boosts your drive to get things done. But Venus is in retrograde mode (and Mercury is about to turn retrograde) so progress will be slow. And the Sun/ Saturn opposition could put you in a cranky and bossy mood, as challenges frustrate you and other people don’t do what you want them to do. Just remember Capricorn – the only person you can control is yourself!

AMAZING EXPERIENCES RIGHT AT OUR DOORSTEP

As far as I’m concerned, there are few things better than being a tourist in your own city. Within an hour’s travel, there are endless options for day trips and staycations – but one of the best might be closer than you think.

Leura is undeniably one of the prettiest areas in the Blue Mountains, complete with picturesque streetscapes, heritage buildings and breathtaking views. When I finally got the opportunity to visit for an overdue long weekend, I was lucky enough to stay at Leisure Inn Spires.

Set on three acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Leisure Inn Spires has options for every combination of travellers, with studio rooms, as well as self-contained, one- and two-bedroom apartments.

Upon entering my room, I was immediately surprised by how spacious it was. It had all of the basics, including a full kitchen and bathroom with a bathtub, as well as a private balcony with beautiful views. But, its main asset was the location.

Conveniently placed at the top of Leura Mall, right across the road from the train station, Leisure Inn Spires is surrounded by endless boutique stores and dining options, all within walking distance. On my first day

Conveniently, I was able to get on right across the road from my accommodation to take my first trip of the day, heading to Katoomba, and then Echo Point lookout.

One of the most famous lookouts in the Blue Mountains, Echo Point lookout has panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters, and is also the gateway to many great walks. I, however, was much more interested in the food.

Blue Mountains’ most popular tourist attractions – Scenic World.

Scenic World is home to countless unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else on the planet, including the world's steepest railway, and the southern hemisphere's steepest aerial cable car. But, when the opportunity came about to take part in their newest insane experience, I couldn’t turn it down.

Now, I feel I need to start this off by clarifying that I am not great with heights, so the idea of standing 270m above the canopy of the Jamison Valley on Beyond Skyway was more than a little bit terrifying.

Thankfully, my fears were met with understanding from the friendly and attentive staff members, who ensured my harness was secure, and my hair was still photo ready.

The rooftop cable car experience is a world first, which sees participants soaking up the unimpeded, 360-degree view atop the iconic Scenic Skyway.

The Lookout Echo Point is Katoomba’s hidden gem, boasting great food and drinks with incredible views. With a few different venues inside, you’ll find almost anything you can think of to order, all served swiftly and with a smile.

After heading back to the apartment briefly, I moved on to my next journey to one of the

Although the wind on the night meant my nerves were never completely at bay, the experience was truly unlike anything I’d ever done before.

With all of this in mind, next time the opportunity arises for a weekend away, consider that one of the best getaways might be right on your doorstep.

there, I was able to cover the entire street, with highlights including lunch at Lily's Pad Café and a delicious hot chocolate from Josophan's Fine Chocolates.

Those who’ve grown to love their newest location in Mulgoa will also be happy to know that The Bunker’s Leura location is directly across from Leisure Inn Spires. A quaint and homely venue which comes to life as the day goes on, The Bunker is the perfect solution to an enjoyable and convenient meal at any time. During my stay, I was able to enjoy a delicious breakfast there, and it proved to be the perfect way to start my morning.

The best part, however, of taking a few days to yourself, is that you get the chance to properly explore. Luckily, Leisure Inn Spires is the perfect base for all things Blue Mountains. Instead of driving, I opted to let the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus do all the work for me on my second day. With an explorer bus pass, travellers are able to hop on and hop off at any of the 37 stops, at any time of day.

CASSIDY PEARCE

LEURA

“THE EXPERIENCE WAS UNLIKE ANYTHING I’D EVER DONE BEFORE”

my name: Abraham

my proud owner: Jake Carling

i live in: Caddens

a bit about me: Abraham does not understand personal boundaries and is a serial-face licker. According to owner, Jake, him and his partner sometimes sleep with the sheets covering their faces so they don’t receive unsolicited licks to the forehead when it’s Abraham’s breakfast time.

Email

Pendragons Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.

At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.

Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.

We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.

Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith

Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384

Upc Upcoming E oming Evvents: ents:

Sa Saturturdaday Oct y Oct y October 8th a ober 8th at 9am t 9am

Join us f Join us for a Pink P or a Pink Paddle addle

AAt the S t the S t yydnedney Int y Internaernational R tional R Regaegatta c tta centr entree..

CContact: 040 ontact: 0407 2 7 2778 384 8 384

Come And Try dates: July 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th.

Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

www.str8ts.com

Previous solution - Easy

No.

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

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

Word Search

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

THEME: ICE WORDS

ADVICE

CHOICE

COWARDICE

CREVICE

DEVICE

JUSTICE

LATTICE

NOVICE

PRACTICE

PRECIPICE

PREJUDICE

REJOICE

SACRIFICE SERVICE

SLUICE

THRICE

TWICE

VOICE

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about ‘Frasier’ in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. What language is Frasier tricked into delivering Frederick’s bar mitzvah speech in?

2. What song is Frasier forced to sing on PBS?

3. What unfortunate trait did Roz worry about being passed down to her daughter from the father?

4. What is the name of the radio

station Frasier works for throughout the series?

5. In what city does Frasier land in the final episode?

6. What was Maris eventually arrested for?

7. Who sings the song that plays over the final credits on each episode of the show?

8. How many seasons are there?

1. Klingon

2. ‘Buttons and Bows’

3. A big nose

4. KACL

5. Chicago

6. Murdering her lover

7. Kelsey Grammer

TEST YOUR BRAIN

no single number can repeat in any row or column. But...

into compartments. These need

filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

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

NCRTFTITOTALA

Previous solution: THE NOTEBOOK

Rising star’s Comfy track

Known for her intriguing blend of modern and traditional country music, Tammy Moxon (pictured) has returned with her carefree new bop, ‘Comfy’.

The track feels like its name suggests; the bouncy mid-tempo groove is positively infectious and Moxon’s silky vocal seems to glide over the top with ease.

The singer’s words hit with sincerity as she praises someone she couldn’t live without – “You’re home to me every day, every hour, every minute, Life is comfy when you’re in it.”

The song’s joy surprisingly came from a place of gloom.

“It was the first song I wrote in that three months of the initial pandemic shutdown. I was

determined to write a happy love song,” she said.

“The definition of ‘Comfy’ according to me – the state of contentment in a relationship. Knowing, without a doubt, that your partner is right for you. Feeling like you can be yourself in his presence and still get butterflies.”

The track is available to download on all streaming services.

Ballerni drops new music

Kelsea Ballerini has dropped an extended version of her ‘Rolling Up The Welcome Mat’ EP.

It includes a full version of ‘Interlude’ (which hints at a potential rivalry with a big name country radio presenter) and the brand new ‘How Do I Do This’, about starting to date again.

The SUV that started it all

Major milestone for the Subaru that kicked off our love affair with car segment

for family SUVs over 25 years ago, remains one of the country’s most popular and award-winning SUVs.

Subaru Australia proudly marks yet another momentous milestone, as it celebrates surpassing over 600,000 Subaru Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) sales in Australia, coinciding perfectly with the company’s 50th year of operation in the country.

For five decades, Subaru has been at the forefront of the SUV segment, setting new benchmarks and pushing boundaries. The Subaru Outback, which is said to have sparked Australia’s love affair

Subaru’s diverse range of SUVs, including the rugged Outback, the dynamic Forester and the versatile Crosstrek, continue to cater to the varying lifestyles and needs of the Australian market.

During the month of July, Subaru Crosstrek and Outback emerged as the standout performers, with both vehicles achieving the best July sales results on record.

The surge in demand and overwhelming positive response from consumers propelled these two

models to play a significant role in reaching the significant milestone of 600,000 Subaru SUVs sold in Australia.

Managing Director of Subaru Australia, Blair Read, expressed his excitement about achieving this significant milestone during the company’s 50th years, stating, “Surpassing 600,000 Subaru SUVs

sold in Australia is a momentous occasion and one we are incredibly proud of.

“We owe achieving this milestone to the ongoing support of our loyal customers, the dedication of our valued dealers and the passion of our entire team. We are proud to have earned the trust of Australians over the last five decades, and we

are committed to building on this legacy.”

This accomplishment not only reflects the unwavering trust and loyalty of Australian customers in Subaru’s iconic brand but also highlights the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional vehicles that excel in safety, performance, and reliability.

60TH ANNIVERSARY UTE, SANDMAN TRIBUTE PACKAGE, AUTOMATIC, VALUE & STYLE FOR ONLY

TURBO DIESEL, 7 SPEED AUTOMATIC, LEATHER, SAT NAV, DVD, SUNROOF, FULLY LOADED

3.0

In the collision industry in the Penrith area, there has been a constant, reliable and quality repairer for the last 49 years. Merv Shipp Smash Repairs has provided ongoing support to the community in collision repair.

Dave and Kirsty O’Brien, the owners of Merv Shipp, have an understanding that your vehicle is often the second biggest, if not the biggest, asset and the lifeline of your family. Therefore, safety and quality are a major priority to them with no exceptions.

Merv Shipp also tries to relieve the stress and anxiety that an accident can cause by making the process as easy as possible. They are at hand to navigate your way through what, at times, can be a very confusing process of insurance claims and hire car rental.

“There have been many recent and ongoing changes to our industry,” Kirsty said.

“It is very important that the consumer reads through and understands their insurance policies.

“Some major insurers don’t give you an option of choosing your own repairer unless selected, instead they steer them towards repair networks where turnover is their priority.”

Merv Shipp offer all types of repairs from all major insurance companies, fleet work and private work. They also offer on-site professional paint rectification and exterior detailing to rejuvenate your vehicle.

Contact Merv Shipp Smash Repairs on Facebook, email info@mervshipp.com.au or call 4731 4587. Merv Shipp is located at 42 Cox Avenue, Kingswood.

Green and gold dream edges closer for talented rider Anna

Afew years ago, Anna Dubier decided to pursue a sporting career in cycling over athletics as she believed it would open up more opportunities for her to travel – and when you see her passport from this year alone, you’ll quickly realise she made the right decision.

Not only has the 15-year-old excelled on both the track and on the road in Australia this cycling season, but she’s also made a name for herself riding overseas as well.

Earlier this year, Anna was invited by a cycling team in Perth to spend two weeks in Belgium to race, while in May she travelled to Malaysia as a member of the Australian Junior Development Team to compete against that country’s top riders.

Despite her age and her inexperience racing internationally, Anna was super impressive.

“In my very first race in Belgium I got second and, in my very last race competing in my age group as well as the one above, I got first in my age group and second overall,” Anna told the Weekender

“For cycling, going to Europe is a really big deal because Europe is where most of the cycling is. There are so many races and so many people cycling in Europe.

“That to me was my biggest achievement because cycling over there is huge and next level.”

Over in Malaysia, the Werrington local also finished on the podium following a week of racing with the

Australian Junior Development Team.

“24 of us were there for a week and participated in one of their track series’ and were up against Malaysia’s top riders. I got second overall in points,” Anna said.

Anna’s road to stardom isn’t as surprising as you may think, with her father Pierre a top cycling coach and her brother heavily involved as

well. The Year 10 Emmaus Catholic College student said cycling runs in the family and she’s happy she got involved herself as an eight-yearold.

“When I was younger, I was tossing up between cycling and athletics and I thought cycling would give me more opportunities to travel,” she said.

“Also with cycling, you can just get

on your bike and ride somewhere new – you can ride up the hill and look at the view or something. It was just a lot more interesting and there’s so many variations of cycling.”

Anna, a current member of the Western Sydney Academy of Sport and the latest recipient of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star Award, said she can’t wait to see what the future holds for her in cycling.

“My biggest goal is to wear the Australian colours and race at the World Championships, and that could be possible as early as next year at the Junior World Champs,” she said.

Anna Dubier’s Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club.

If you or you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

Monthly Junior Sports Star winners receive $350 in cash plus their ticket to the Annual Dinner, while monthly Senior Sports Star winners receive $700 in cash plus their Annual Dinner ticket.

Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Anna Dubier (far right) in action on the track.

Anna Dubier.

Young footy stars make history

Wanderers re-sign Serbian star

The Western Sydney Wanderers continue to build for next season, re-signing highly regarded and experienced midfielder Milos Ninkovic.

Ninkovic made the move across the crosstown divide prior to the 2022/23 A-League season and played an instrumental role in the Wanderers’ midfield.

Inspired by their heroes at the Penrith Panthers, the Cambridge Park Cranebrook U9/1 Division 1 junior rugby league team have their eyes firmly on a Premiership.

Earlier this month, the all-boys team were crowned Minor Premiers of the competition after going the entire season undefeated.

Making their feats even more impressive is the fact they became the first Cambridge Park Cranebrook Division 1 team in 22 years to do so.

Proud coach Matt Mcburney praised his side for their incredible run this season.

“They are a great team together right across the park,” he told the Weekender

“Their defence is unreal. Our last four games, before heading into the semis, we didn’t let a single try in. They just click so well

together, it’s awesome! The club as a whole is also super proud and have backed these boys from the start.”

Cambridge Park Cranebrook’s defence is reminiscent of the brick wall-like defence the Panthers have been putting up the past couple of seasons in the NRL.

Mcburney said his team of little superstars love watching the Panthers play.

“As a team, we are a close group. We go to all the Panthers home games together,” he said.

“The boys love watching the Panthers because they are doing so well.”

But the job isn’t done yet, with Cambridge Park Cranebrook set to play against the Windsor Wolves in this Saturday’s semi final at Blinkhorn Oval in Colyton. A win over the Wolves will put them into next weekend’s Grand Final.

“I am confident, but you never know what can happen,” Mcburney said.

The twice Johnny Warren Medallist winner featured in 21 matches for Western Sydney, made six assists and was part of the first Wanderers squad in six seasons to make the Finals.

Wanderers coach Marko Rudan praised the re-signing.

“We are delighted to have a player of Milos’ calibre re-sign with the club for another season,” he said.

“Milos has an endless amount of talent and we are looking forward to seeing his impact again this season, as well as helping guide the next generation of Wanderers players.”

The 38-year-old Serbian-born star said he was excited to continue his journey at the Wanderers.

“I am very blessed because the club gave me the chance to be part of the team for another year,” Ninkovic said.

“I think I can still help the team both on and off the field to reach our goals this season.”

The U9/1 Division 1 Cambridge Park Cranebrook team.

Milos Ninkovic celebrates on the shoulders of his teammate.

NATHAN TAYLOR

NATHAN TAYLOR

All stars in action

Talented locals to play American team in exhibition match

NATHAN TAYLOR

If you can’t get enough of female football on the back of the Matildas’ success at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, a special exhibition match involving the best female talent the Nepean region has to offer will be played tonight (Friday, August 18) at Cook Park, St Marys.

For the first time ever, the Nepean Football Association All Stars will be taking on SoCal Select, a women’s team from Southern California in the United States.

SoCal Select are currently in the country to play friendly matches against top Australian clubs, including Nepean, as well as to catch all the action of the Women’s World Cup live. Speaking with the Weekender, Female Football Director at Nepean Football Association, Stacey Fanella, said the All Stars team was made up of players from Nepean’s Ruby League competition.

“The Ruby League is the Premier league for female football in the Nepean,” she said.

“These players were nominated by their club coaches and we assembled the All Stars team from there.

“We are basically showcasing the best of the best players in female football within the Nepean region.”

With the Matildas doing amazing things at the Women’s World Cup, Friday night’s game

between the Aussies and the Americans is expected to generate plenty of interest among local football fans.

Fanella said the team had been training well ahead of the one-off match.

“We all have had the benefit of playing against or with each other during the season, so we’re all not complete strangers,” she said.

“While SoCal have enjoyed five months together training and playing multiple games, I’m confident we’ll do well on home turf.

“The girls are all on a big high from the Matildas at the World Cup at the moment, so

Around The Grounds

RUGBY UNION: The Penrith RSL Junior Rugby Union Club are on the hunt for an identity next season in the form of a club mascot. The club recently put a call-out on Facebook for the local community to suggest mascot names for the 2024 season and beyond. “Think about our club values and what that means. How can we represent our values, our area and our vision in a club mascot,” the club posted on Facebook. Suggestions to come through already include the Penrith Patriots, Penrith Soldiers and Penrith Poppies. To have your say on Penrith RSL’s new name, visit https:// shorturl.at/gnyK7.

TITLE DREAM A STEP CLOSER

Story continued from » p.88

Strong leadership is the mark of a successful team and White couldn’t have been more complimentary when speaking about his skipper Lauren Russell.

“Our captain was massive. Lauren had a really good off-season, she got very fit and sets a very high standard both on and off the park.,” he said.

“We did lose some quality players but, to be honest, our leader and step-in vice-captain have been the difference. They are so fit and run all day. They’ve bonded this team like nothing else… it’s been fantastic.”

White will be looking at his leaders as well as the rest of the Ramettes to put in a massive performance this weekend to avoid elimination and advance to the next stage of the competition.

I think it’s fantastic to promote female football and its perfect timing with the Women’s World Cup happening also.”

Football fans are invited to attend the match on Friday night, which kicks off at 7pm at Cook Park in St Marys.

Fanella said she would love to see the place packed with supporters to show their love of the sport.

“This is the first time we’ve had an All Stars team for female football and I’d love to see a lot of support down there,” she said.

“Hopefully we can get a few people to Cook Park to cheer us on and enjoy watching female football being celebrated.”

After the Ramettes knocked off the South West Sydney Blues 29-20 in the final round last weekend, White said the team are primed for the upcoming post-season.

“We had a tough game last Saturday at Greygums. We weren’t at our best, but we certainly found a way to grit and grind out a win, which is more important than blowing away a team coming into the Finals,” he said.

“Despite some niggling injuries, we’ve got a full squad going into the weekend, so we give ourselves a very good chance of getting through this one.”

The first bounce is at 1pm.

AFL: The GWS Giants have lost backto-back games, walloped by Port Adelaide 136-85 in Round 22 of the AFL competition. The Giants, who up until last week notched up a club record seven straight wins, are now out of the top eight and sitting in 10th place with two games of the regular season remaining. The Giants host Essendon in a must-win clash on Saturday afternoon before an away encounter against Carlton in the final round.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have come close to winning their final game of the season, going down to the Parramatta Goannas 68-63 in Round 18 of the AFL Sydney Platinum Division competition. The Rams were down by 26 points at the half-time break before staging a remarkable comeback to just fall short of victory by five points. Rams star Mitchell Stevens scored a team-high four goals in the defeat. It wasn’t a pretty season for the Rams who lost their new coach early on. They finished sixth overall with a six win and 11 loss record.

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�� ABEL STREET EATERY (HAPPY HARRYS)

�� BATT STREET TAKE AWAY

BMX: Penrith BMX stars and Australian representatives Jobe Degnan and Sandy Cameron (pictured) recently competed in Glasgow, Scotland at the BMX World Championships. Up against the best young riders in the world, Jobe finished sixth in the 10 Boys 1/8 Finals for Motos and sixth in the quarter finals of the 8-12 Cruiser Boys. Meanwhile, Cameron finished fifth in the quarter final of the women’s 40+ cruiser category. Well done to both riders!

FOOTBALL: Western Sydney Wanderers debutant Lachlan Brook guided his side to a monster 6-1 win over WA’s Floreat Athena in their Round of 32 clash Australian Cup clash last week. The 22-year-old became the first player in the modern era of the tournament to score five goals in an Australia Cup Final Rounds match. Following their huge victory, the Wanderers now advance to the Round of 16 where they’ll play Adelaide United later this month.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan@westernweekender. com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/westernweekender or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

�� GREY GUMS HOTEL

�� HARVEY NORMAN

�� NEW ON YORK TAKEAWAY

�� PARRABEY GOURMET KITCHEN (PENRITH HOMEMAKER)

�� SALT CAFE (PENRITH HOMEMAKER)

�� SHELL SERVICE STATION

�� THE COFFEE CLUB NEPEAN RIVER

�� THREE SUGARS CAFÉ

�� WESTERN WEEKENDER

�� YORK TAKEAWAY

�� ZOO FITNESS

�� 7/11 JAMISONTOWN

The Nepean Football Association All Stars on Monday night.

RAMETTES EYE HISTORY

As they embark on their second consecutive Finals appearance, the Penrith Ramettes haven’t let the loss of some “crucial” players heading into the 2023 season affect them.

Last year the Ramettes returned to the Finals of the AFL Sydney Women’s Divi-

sion Two competition after six seasons in the wilderness, reaching the Grand Final in spectacular fashion.

Following another third-place finish after the home-and-away season, the Ramettes are aiming to go one better and take out this year’s title.

The fun all starts this Sunday afternoon with an Elimination Final against the UNSW-ES Bulldogs at Rosedale Oval.

Milos stays in red and black PAGE 86

A win over the fourth-placed Bulldogs will see them advance to the Preliminary Final, while a loss will end their dream of winning Penrith another title.

Ramettes coach Nathan White said it’s been a strong season despite the absence of some key players from last year.

“We lost some really good and crucial players but picked up a lot of new players this year too,” he said.

“Also the skill level of our junior girls has really improved. A lot them of them worked hard this year and I was super impressed with how they were able to improve their skills, fitness and footy brains.

“It made it a lot easier to coach this year with not having to explain where to be, they naturally went to their roles.”

Story continues on » p. 87

NATHAN TAYLOR

Photo: Ed Kirby.