Western Weekender August 9

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WW37631

Penrith paramedics are supporting Red Nose Day this year.

Photo: Megan Dunn

SEEING RED Today (Friday, August 9) is Red Nose Day, with locals encouraged to buy a red nose or related product to help stop little precious lives being cut short.

Emily Feszczuk reports on page 24

HISTORY BUFF Our forgotten past SEE PAGE 9

100 NOT OUT Donor’s milestone SEE PAGE 23

THEY’RE BACK Partners in crime SEE PAGE 39

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Ayres, Car to support bill But Davies will vote against plan to decriminalise abortion as debate rages VOTING FOR

NICOLA BARTON

P

enrith MP Stuart Ayres and Londonderry MP Prue Car have both confirmed they’ll vote in favour of decriminalising abortion by removing it from the Crimes Act. But Mulgoa MP and former Minister for Women Tanya Davies has reiterated her opposition, a decision which has stirred much controversy in the past.

The Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019, which was introduced by Sydney MP Alex Greenwich, has caused great divide as the conservative and religious go to war with the left-leaning.

Ms Car said the bill was long overdue for women in NSW. “I’ll be voting in favour of the Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill. In doing so, I’ll be choosing to vote for a woman’s right to choose freedom over her own body,” she said.

“NSW is the last state or territory in this country to have abortion remain in our criminal code.

“Terminations are provided throughout the state and this law will be simply removing a legal discrepancy that has been allowed to remain for far too long.”

If passed, the bill would end the state’s

VOTING AGAINST

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres

Londonderry MP Prue Car

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies

119-year standing criminalisation of abortion and also allow for terminations after 22 weeks with the consent of two doctors.

A standalone health care act would regulate such procedures.

“This bill removes abortion from the Crimes Act and regulates it as a women’s health issue rather than a crime. This is consistent with current practice in NSW and therefore I will support the bill,” Mr Ayres said.

“My long standing position and one I

have expressed many times in public is that abortion should be safe, legal and rare.”

But Ms Davies, a self- proclaimed prolife advocate, slammed the bill for not mentioning the word ‘women’ and instead referring to a ‘person who is pregnant’.

“I will be voting against the extreme abortion bill before the NSW Parliament on the grounds that my constituents have not had the opportunity to understand the bill and raise their views and on the

significant flaws in the bill,” she said this week.

Ms Davies’ decision was made on the basis that there is no protection for women coerced into having abortions or against unscrupulous medical practitioners.

She also raised the lack of obligation for medical professionals to assist babies born alive and the removal of a doctor’s right to conscientiously object to the abortion.

Supporters hope the bill will be passed by mid-August.

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Where are they? Missing Persons Week highlights desperate search for answers NICOLA BARTON

F

or some, National Missing Persons Week seems like something out of a television show but for others it is a painful reminder of the questions that are still left unanswered.

Now in its 31st year, National Missing Persons Week is focusing on the theme, ‘individuals not statistics’ to stress that these are real people with real stories, families and friends.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) National Missing Persons Coordination Centre (NMPCC) is shining a spotlight on Australia’s long- term missing, four of which were last seen in the Penrith region.

The unsolved mysteries of Jordan Morris, Gregory Bennett, Katherine Ackling-Bryen and Lynette Melbin weigh heavily on the community, as we continue to question what really happened.

26- year- old Jordan Morris is one of Penrith’s most recent cases, disappearing on Friday, April 24, 2015.

Last seen in the vicinity of Castlereagh Road, the last person he contacted was his mother via Facebook in mid-March 2015.

No one has heard from him since.

Despite thorough investigation and multiple searches in the area, his wherea-

bouts remains unknown, with grave concerns for his welfare.

Oxley Park mum Katherine AcklingBryen vanished back in 2016 and was last spotted in St Marys.

A coroner’s inquest in 2017 found Ms Ackling-Bryen to be dead, on the grounds of her mental health history, although her body has never been found.

Penrith’s most long standing missing persons are Gregory Bennett, who was last seen in Lemongrove on Friday, November 4 1988 and Lynette Melbin who was last seen on Monday, June 5 1972 at Penrith Plaza.

Mr Bennett would now be 71- years- old and Ms Melbin 62-years-old.

AFP Commander Justine Gough, who manages the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre, said it is sometimes easy to generalise the 2,600 long- term missing persons in Australia and lose the essence of the individual.

“The people captured in the statistic are not just ‘missing persons’, they are fathers, daughters, and sons; students, chefs and academics, we don’t want people to forget that,” she said.

If you have information that may assist police to locate any missing persons, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or your local police station.

Missing since 2015: Jordan Morris

Presumed dead: Katherine Ackling-Bryen

Not seen since 1988: Gregory Bennett

Mystery case: Lynette Melbin

WW37632

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

Faces of Penrith’s missing

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Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255 www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith westernweekender Issue 1414

Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Questions, but few answers A

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

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

s its very name suggests, the point of ABC’s Monday night institution, ‘Q&A’, is to ask questions and have them answered.

On the episode that aired on Monday night, the first part was taken care of by audience member Ricci Bartels in spectacular, if not heartbreaking fashion.

The second part and perhaps the most crucial – the answers – was somewhat more difficult to achieve.

Ms Bartels spoke of being in the workforce for 46 years – 20 years in the private sector and 26 in the public sector.

“I was forced on to Newstart at the age of 62, through change of management and subsequent retrenchment,” she told the ‘Q&A’ panel, which included Liberal MP Jason Falinski, Shadow Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, Independent MP Zali Steggall, CEO of Australian Council of Social Service Cassandra Goldie and journalist Adam Creighton.

“I have experienced Newstart for over three years. Jobactive left me to my own devices. I could not find a job, no matter how hard I tried. So my question to you, wonderful panellists, is this: what would you or how would you suggest people like me ‘have a go to get a go’?”

The last part of that question brought into focus a line that Prime Minister Scott Morrison has used often. ‘Have a go to get a go’. It might be the death of it too.

Falinski, part of the Morrison government, had the spotlight on him first. He tried to escape with an old- fashioned political line aimed at making it look like you’re doing something extra for someone when you’re not: “I am happy to talk to you after the show”.

Thankfully, host Tony Jones was

Index

“The novelty of Scott Morrison’s unexpected miracle victory will start to wear off”

having none of it. You’re here to answer questions, so how about we do that on the show instead of off it?

Truth is nobody on the panel could possibly have an answer for Ms Bartels because people like her are the forgotten Australians; those deemed past their use- by date by private companies and even the public sector.

But those forgotten Australians still need to pay their bills, and now face a longer wait for the pension given the retirement age has been lifted.

Ms Bartels would go on to describe the period she was on Newstart as “the worst time of her life”.

That’s understandable. After 46 years in the workforce and still wanting to work at 62, it would be demoralising to be constantly turned away, all but told you’ve got nothing to offer. Your dignity and your income destroyed.

When the spotlight was back on Falinski, he waffled his way through a response, trying to be sympathetic to Ms Bartels while protecting his government’s reputation.

News.............................................1-26 Extra Time...........................27-38 Entertainment .................39-48

In memory of

Raymond Cooper

4

@troydodds

22 November 1936 - 11 August 2018 Adored husband of Margaret, loving father and father-in-law of Glenn and Mila, loving Pop of Melinda, Justin, Romil and Adrian, and proud great-grandfather of Ebony.

Although a year has passed, the memories of you will forever be in our hearts.

WW38473

In a couple of minutes of Monday night television, Ms Bartels exposed the problem of political slogans that mean little.

‘Have a go to get a go’.

She described it as divisive, and if you really think about it, perhaps she’s right.

She’s having one hell of a go but isn’t getting one, and now feels like a failure.

“Not only have I had a go for 46 years, I believe I had a go on Newstart and I do not like hearing things like ‘have a go to get a go’,” Ms Bartels said.

“I do not like hearing things like this government will only hand up, not hand out – only recently said by our Prime Minister. What is that supposed to mean?

Am I a handout now?”

Now that the dust has settled on the Federal Election, the novelty of Scott Morrison’s unexpected miracle victory will start to wear off.

For many, the truth behind a Seinfeldstyle campaign that was about, well, not much, will start to come to the fore.

That’s not to say Australians made a mistake in rejecting Labor’s rather radical policy platform, but on the same token it cannot mean that the Coalition just gets away with slogans and good photo ops.

Too many of us believe Newstart is the home of dole bludgers who don’t actually want a job and are rorting all of us hard-working tax payers.

The truth is far from that, and there are many stories like that of Ms Bartels, stuck between wanting to work and her retirement years; ignored by employers and politicians alike.

‘Q&A’ didn’t deliver many answers on Monday night, but it left us with plenty of questions. How do we legitimately help the forgotten Australians?

Your Life ................................49-53 Business........................................54 Business Directory.......55-57

Auto..................................................58 Sport........................................59-64

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

the western weekender

Ripples Penrith and St Marys now under Council’s control, with upgrades likely ALENA HIGGINS

C

ontrol of Ripples Penrith and St Marys has been handed back to Penrith City Council at the Board’s request.

Deputy Mayor Greg Davies, who sits on the Board of Directors, stressed there was nothing untoward about the move, rather it was done to limit “double handling” and to bring the centres in line with legislative changes.

Cr Davies said the Board had been thinking of relinquishing the reins for a while and was spurred into action after the sudden passing of Ripples’ longstanding Chairman Alan Brown six months ago.

He said the leisure centres, which are 25-years-old, were in great financial shape but needed about $1.5 million spent on them to bring them up to scratch, which is Council’s domain.

“The Board is happy to see Ripples moving forward and is looking forward to some great outcomes over the next couple of years,” Cr Davies told the Weekender.

According to its 2017-2018 annual report, Penrith Aquatic and Leisure Limited (trading as Ripples) recorded total revenue of $4,593,906 and operating costs of $5,654,578, resulting in a deficit of $37,000

Ripples St Marys is back in Penrith City Council’s control. Photo: Megan Dunn

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after Council’s subsidy of $1.02m. This is a decline in performance of $38,000 on the prior year, attributed to higher than budgeted operational costs.

Ripples’ operations are subsidised by Council to allow community members to access leisure and fitness facilities at a reasonable price.

Cr Davies said the Board had been performing well and cited a number of key decisions, including installing the water park at Ripples Penrith, which he claims has increased patronage by about 40 to 50 per cent.

“During 1994, Penrith City Council established a wholly- owned company to manage and deliver aquatic and leisure activities at St Marys, later expanding to Penrith and a hydrotherapy pool at St Marys,” a Council spokesman said.

“A Board of Directors was established comprising of volunteer community members and Councillors, while Penrith City Council managed all assets under a renewal and maintenance schedule.”

A motion was carried to incorporate the company back into Council’s direct control during confidential business at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on June 24.

Cr Davies anticipates the Board will be reinstated once Council has ironed out the new legislative requirements.

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Meet Penrith’s bravest fighter EMILY FESZCZUK

F

our- year- old Kyan Lamb has been suffering from major headaches and medical issues since he was a baby.

The little fighter has just undergone major surgery that his family hopes will solve the issue once and for all.

But even getting to this stage was tough, with doctors struggling to find the root cause of his pain.

“When he was born he had seizures which they said would be fine but from 18-months-old he would complain about a sore head and cry, then as he got older the headaches got worse, his speech would slur, he couldn’t have light in his face and he was going backwards in his development,” Kyan’s grandmother, Keri Burns, told the Weekender.

“My daughter took him to hospital again and they wanted to do a spinal tap for meningitis, but she had a gut feeling and refused.

“They did a CT scan instead and said if they had gone through with the original plan, they could have killed him.”

Kyan was finally diagnosed with Chiari Malformation Type 1, a condition where the brain tissue extends into your spinal

canal, pushing down into the neck. To provide some relief Kyan had to undergo a decompression surgery.

“They cut open the back of his neck around 20cm long and 44 stitches to take the bone out of the back of the neck, then put a titanium grid with mesh to fit over it to help with the expanding cerebellum so it won’t be trapped within the bone,” Ms Burns explained.

“We don’t know how effective this is until six to eight weeks down the track, so it’s another scary waiting game, but we’ve got lots of friends praying for us with positive family support that Kyan will be able to come through this.”

While the surgery was covered by Medicare, Ms Burns has set up a GoFundMe page for Kyan so his parents could have time off to help him recover.

“They have been under a lot of stress and coping well considering, but now their car has broken down and their bed has broken,” Ms Burns said.

“I’m humbled at all the people who have shown support already because it’s not for the medical cost, but understanding that Kyan needs his family right now which is really important.”

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/ support-for-kyans-family.

Kyan Lamb is recovering from major surgery. Photo: Megan Dunn

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Children with disabilities could be sent to high schools as far away as Oran Park NICOLA BARTON

P

arents of primary school children with disabilities are being left in limbo, as they are turned away from high school support units that simply don’t have room for them.

Glenmore Park Public School’s additional needs classes had only one of seven children accepted into Glenmore Park High School’s support unit.

Parents have been told there are only three positions left, which are also needed by children from Surveyors Creek and surrounds.

Glenmore Park mother of three, Rebekah Hewitt, fears for her son, Brayden, who has been given no direction of where he will go to high school next year.

“That transition from primary to high school is hard for any kid, especially one with Autism Spectrum Disorder,” she said.

“They want to go to school with their friends in their area and they should have the right to do that, like any other kid.”

Brayden thinks he will go to Glenmore Park High School like his big sister, but that may no longer be the case.

Ms Hewitt has been advised that he should receive placement by the end of the year, although this could be anywhere

Parents and children from Glenmore Park are uncertain about their future schooling from Blaxland to Oran Park. By the time she receives a definite answer, she will have very little time to transition him and

the school will most likely be closed for the holidays.

Craig McManus’ 12-year-old son, Declan,

is also in the support unit and said the stress and uncertainty is unbearable.

“We have to prepare our children for every single thing every single day and once that routine changes you’ve got to prepare them again, it’s already really hard and I’m not trying to cry ‘poor me’ because you get used to it as families, but if we don’t know where they will be going to school, how are we supposed to prepare them?” he said.

Shadow Minister for Education, Prue Car said with the booming population in the region, it’s the State Government’s responsibility to ensure there is room for these children locally.

“The Government has to provide answers to these families and provide placements as a matter of serious urgency,” she said.

A spokesperson from the Department of Education said they are working to provide appropriate support class options for identified students.

“The family, primary school and high school will collaboratively develop individualised transition plans for each child once their high school placement has been confirmed,” the spokesperson said.

They encourage families to raise their concerns with the Principal or seek additional support from the School Services team at the Department’s Nirimba Office.

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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ADMINISTRATION

Forgotten history: Your chance to learn more about Emu Plains Convict Farm EMILY FESZCZUK

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mu Plains is known for its beautiful landscape, but it has a far deeper history dating back to the early colonial era. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the Emu Plains Convict Farm, with Penrith City Library taking locals back in time.

Lorraine Stacker, Council historian and author of Chained to the Soil on the Plains of Emu will be one of the speakers at the Convicts and Colonists Historical Conference on Saturday, August 31, which is a part of National Family History Month. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been running history conferences ever since 2002 and we have had a bit of a break in the last few years but we are putting this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the convict farm, which was established by Governor Lachlan Macquarie and ran from 1819 to 1832,â&#x20AC;? Ms Stacker said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Back in 2000 I wrote the history of the Emu Plains convict farm and we are going to relaunch that at the event where I will talk about the history of the farm.â&#x20AC;?

Along with Ms Stacker will be guest speakers that will talk about history and researching records.

She told the Weekender that more people

the western weekender Âť Friday, August 9, 2019

Take a trip back in time

Historian Lorraine Stacker will take locals back to the days of the Emu Plains Convict Farm. Photo: Megan Dunn should learn about the forgotten history of the area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of people probably donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about the farm and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realise the main streets we use today are the streets around the paddocks where hundreds of convicts worked over 13 years to produce wheat, rye, barley and corn to keep the colony going,â&#x20AC;? Ms Stacker said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I live in Emu Plains and I appreciate it more as the early history is different to anywhere else. We should be proud of our local history and excited that this area was so vital.â&#x20AC;?

Mayor Ross Fowler said that researching family and local history is a great way to learn more about where you come from. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The convict farm is a rich piece of

local history that had an important hand in shaping Penrith into what it is today, and the conference will be invaluable to anyone who is interested in their local community history,â&#x20AC;? he said.

To book tickets to the event or check out the other events happening during National Family History Month, visit penrith.city/events.

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Penrith City Council has received Development

9

W

ith the temperature dropping, there’s no better time to warm up your home with the season’s latest looks. And as they say, it’s best to start from the ground up!

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The Weekender has a $600 Carpet Court voucher to give away. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Rug’ in the subject line.

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Entries close Friday, August 16 and winners will be notified by email. Voucher must be redeemed online across the Carpet Court rug range. Coupon cannot be used over multiple transactions. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or from Weekender reception.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

More lives lost in the United States from gun violence and still its leaders think prayers and thoughts will fix it. The US is now a confirmed laughing stock around the world, and its lack of action on gun violence will only lead to more deaths.

my Penrith

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

Jacob Sheppard

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize.

Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0101, 0853, 0562

Dose of Dorin

Penrith

10

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Burger Head.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Theodore’s Cafe.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? High Street Social.

FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Panthers Stadium.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The attitude of everyone who lives here. It’s a mixture of that classic Aussie community spirit and a “work hard, play hard” mentality.

It’s a city built on working class morals, which has created a place to call home for anyone willing to have a crack, work hard and enjoy life.

WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The Shack Organic Wholefoods Cafe. Unbelievably tasty food made with some of the healthiest and freshest produce you’ll find out west.

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

wwpenrith

westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

Footy doubles winner: Rotary Club donates $5,000 to Prowl To celebrate our 10 Years of building QUALITY new homes in Western Sydney & The Blue Mountains we would like to offer

FREE ACTRON DUCTED AIR CONDITIONING* to the first 10 new Customers who choose us to build their new home.

Call us now for more details on 1300 882 770

Brad Waugh with Rotary Club members Peter Quirk and Aaron Tyers on Monday help with their suite of programs aimed at improving young lives in the Penrith Community.

Mr Waugh attended the Rotary Club’s morning meeting on Monday and provided a comprehensive presentation of the programs that the Prowl offers students from Year 3 to young adults.

The Nepean Rotary Club has donated over $40,000 in the past financial year to many organisations both in the local community, and overseas. Over $10,000 was given to the Drought Relief Program (Buy a Bale).

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nyone who has ever attended a game at Panthers Stadium is sure to have heard the familiar ‘Footy Doubles’ catchcry from the team at the Nepean Rotary Club.

Their familiar faces are found at all the home games – enticing the fans to try their luck in picking the winning ticket for the first try scorers for either side.

As a thank you to Panthers for allowing them to fundraise at the home games, the Nepean Rotary Club handed a $5,000 cheque to Brad Waugh, General Manager of Panthers on the Prowl to

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Approval for hotel Approval has been granted for a new sixstorey hotel in the Panthers Precinct.

The four- star hotel will support the planned conference centre and will offer 190 rooms, a business hub, dining facilities as well as rooftop pool and deck.

The hotel, which is considered the second phase of a three- stage development of the site, will provide a ground floor lobby, five floors of hotel rooms and a retail offering adjacent to Ransley Street.

Penrith Rugby Leagues Club Limited lodged the $61.5 million development application in December 2018.

The conference centre and the hotel, along with Stage 3, being serviced apartments, will be built on the existing at- grade car park in front of the iFLY Downunder building.

Stamp price rise Australia Post wants to increase the price of a basic stamp by 10 cents from next year.

A draft notification has been lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission seeking an increase in the Basic Postage Rate from $1 to $1.10.

It would be the first increase to the basic stamp cost in four years.

“Last year our letters business lost $190 million – this is after the benefit of significant efficiency savings,” said Australia Post Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Christine Holgate.

“It is important that we responsibly address pricing if we are to protect this important service and keep our network of community post offices open.”

Brought to you by

JASON MORRISON

It’s time to get serious about staff safety at our hospitals I f we can afford to have police officers guarding politicians and judges we can find the money for protection of nurses, doctors, and patients working in our hospitals.

On average 40 medical staff are seriously assaulted every month.

In the last three years, we’ve seen a line of high profile violent attacks – and the list is shocking.

Some of the worst cases have happened at Nepean Hospital.

Hospital workers are routinely bashed, abused, intimidated, and threatened while on duty.

There’ve been stabbings, a shooting, staff held hostage.

A visit to an emergency ward at night can be frightening.

Rightly so, doctors and nurses are sick of being treated as punching bags.

Paramedics regularly cop it too.

It’s unacceptable – so, how about some action?

Typically, the Health Department is slowly conducting yet another review into hospital security but overlooking the obvious.

We have a Police Force for a reason.

The NSW Police has a group of highly trained security teams called Special Constables.

They wear the uniform, they are armed, and have the powers of regular police.

Around the clock, they protect Parliament House, The Governor, The State Office block.

They stopped a terrorist and shot him dead when he attacked poor Curtis Cheng outside Parramatta’s Police Headquarters.

They are a credit to the Police Force and are perfectly trained to make our hospitals safer.

Council of Motor Clubs Presents

Every day at my Channel 7 offices in the city, I walk past a group of Special Constables making sure the Premier and her Ministers have a safe place to work.

They prevent crime merely by their presence. So why are hospitals missing out? Simple – it’s cost.

The Government is rolling in money but is always screaming poor.

Like all things in life, it all comes down to priorities.

If protecting nurses and doctors mattered enough, we could find the money.

A hospital should never be a dangerous place to work.

At the moment, some of them are.

It’s time to stop procrastinating and fix the problem.

If the Premier and Health Minister are looking for the answer, they walk past the solution every day.

Find us on Facebook

THE SHANNONS SYDNEY CLASSIC Sunday 18th August 2019 Gates open to the Public at 10am x Over 1900 Veteran & Classic vehicles from over 150 clubs on display and on parade, including cars, motorbikes, scooters, military vehicles, police vehicles, ambulances & fire engines. AND it’s on rain, hail or shine. There’s plenty to see and do indoors. x The CMC Raffle for Prostate Cancer Foundation will be drawn at 2.30pm 1st Prize a $2,000 Cruise Voucher from CRUISE EXPRESS plus lots of other prizes.

x

Double -decker bus rides around the track (gold coin donation for the Bus Museum)

• Trade displays in Pit Garages all day with books, models & all sorts of memorabilia available for sale. x

Live music, square dancing, art show and much, much more!!

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Don't forget, this is very close to Father's Day, so come along and pick up a gift that Dad will love!

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It’s a day for all the family with lots of things for Dad, Mum & not forgetting the kids with clowns, face painting and lots more.

Sydney Motorsport Park, at Eastern Creek CELEBRATING THE FOLLOWING ANNIVERSARIES IN 2019 CENTENARY OF ARMSTRONG SIDDELEY CENTENARY OF ALVIS ROLLS ROYCE 20/25 - 90 YEARS ROLLS ROYCE SILVER DAWN - 70 YEARS FIAT CAR CLUB OF NSW - 70 YEARS ANTIQUE & CLASSIC MOTOR CLUB - 60 YEARS MINI CAR CLUB - 60 YEARS TRIUMPH HERALD - 60 YEARS MK2 JAGUAR & MK9 - 60 YEARS GOGGOMOBIL DART - 60 YEARS FORD GALAXIE - 60 YEARS BOSS MUSTANG - 50 YEARS HUDSON AMC CAR CLUB - 50 YEARS TRIUMPH TR6 - 50 YEARS BOLWELL NAGARI - 50 YEARS VOLVO CAR CLUB - 50 YEARS DATSUN 240Z - 50 YEARS FB-EK HOLDEN CAR CLUB - 40 YEARS SAAB 900 CLASSIC - 40 YEARS

Free entry for kids under 12 years & Free Parking 12

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap

COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Man jailed over serious firearms offences

A man busted with guns and ammunition has been jailed for a minimum of three years and nine months.

Matthew Sale, 28, faced Penrith District Court last Friday charged with ‘possess shortened firearm’ and ‘possess unauthorised pistol’.

The court heard Sale was subject to a special firearms prohibition order, preventing him from holding any firearm, legal or otherwise.

Despite this, police found the guns along with ammunition in a luggage bag while executing a search warrant on his property pursuant to the firearms order on July 5, 2016.

The court heard police uncovered more than $6,000 in cash stashed in a shoe box in his bedroom, and during a search of the perimeter of the property, spied the bag which had been thrown over the fence into his neighbour’s yard.

Inside the bag, police located the guns, one of which was loaded, along with 12 cartridges. Another 18 cartridges were found in the laundry.

The offender’s fingerprints were later lifted from the plastic bag containing the shot gun cartridges.

He pleaded guilty to the charges in the weeks leading up to his trial, the court heard, and was given a 15 per cent discount for his guilty pleas.

The court heard Sale was a heavy alcohol and cocaine user and claimed he had the weapons for his protection.

He contended cocaine made him “paranoid” when he was coming down from the drug and always thought people were out to get him.

But Acting Judge Rodney Madgwick said illegal weapons don’t just fall into the hands of innocent people.

“The fact is, illegal firearms of this kind are only obtainable from criminal sources and only obtained by people who have earned the trust of those dealing in those weapons,” he said.

The court heard Sale had not be in trouble since serving time for ‘robbery armed with an offensive weapon’ in his early adulthood, but Acting Judge Madgwick said “it may be derived that this was as much due to good luck as good management”.

He was sentenced to an aggregate term of five years with a three-year, ninemonth non-parole period.

He has been on remand since his arrest on July 5, 2016 making him eligible for release on parole on April 24, 2020.

Man avoids time in the slammer over DV attack

A man who punched his partner in the face when a verbal disagreement escalated into violence has been sentenced to nine months in jail.

The Werrington County resident dodged full-time jail, however, after Magistrate Peter Thompson allowed him to serve the sentence in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order (ICO).

The offender was candid when he recounted the incident to the court.

“It was a heated argument gone bad due to too much to drink,” he said.

“The statement of facts indicate the assault itself involved a punch to the head, do you agree with that?” Magistrate Thompson asked.

“Yes, Sir,” he replied.

On Tuesday, Penrith Local Court heard the man and his partner were still on rocky grounds and sleeping in separate rooms following the August 3 incident.

“It’s clear alcohol played a significant role... there was name calling and violence involving a punch to the head,” Magistrate Thompson said.

Magistrate Thompson said the court must consider a jail sentence given community expectations for domestic violence perpetrators.

He was convicted and handed a ninemonth ICO with supervision. He was also ordered to undertake 100 hours of community service work.

“Make no bones about it, it’s a jail sentence,” Magistrate Thompson warned.

“Breach the ICO and it’s a nine month sentence that you’ll serve.”

Woman’s attack on daughter was “out of character”

A mother who slapped her teenager daughter multiple times to the back of the head has escaped a criminal conviction.

Penrith Local Court heard the Werrington woman was under enormous stress and the offending was “completely out of character” when she lashed out at the 13-year-old.

The woman’s lawyer told the court the offender and her family were struggling financially, while at the same time the teen was “acting out” and rebelling against her mother after being tormented by bullies at school.

Despite repeated attempts by the mother and school to help the girl, nothing had worked and she continued to truant, the court heard.

“Everyone was at their wits’ end,” her lawyer submitted.

“One could say it was the last straw.”

The court heard the offender had moved in with a friend to provide some distance, but continues to cook and clean at the family home.

Magistrate Peter Thompson found there was “significant extenuating circumstances” and had “no doubt” the woman was a “loving and nurturing mother”.

“The conduct was completely out of character,” he said. “You have never been in trouble or contact with police”.

He accepted she showed genuine remorse and had excellent prospects of rehabilitation.

She was handed a Conditional Release Order without conviction for 18 months with supervision.

Man cops hit to the wallet over motorbike ride

Harley Edward Stollery has been stung

with more than $1,300 worth of fines after taking a motorbike for a spin without a valid licence.

Stollery appeared before Penrith Local Court on Tuesday charged with driving an uninsured and unregistered motor vehicle, driving without a valid motorbike licence and failing to wear a helmet.

“I just got on the bike and started riding – I just didn’t think,” the offender told Magistrate Peter Thompson when asked to explain his offending.

The court heard Stollery was the holder of a car licence but not a motorbike licence when he took the bike for a ride along Jamison Road, Penrith on July 13.

He was convicted, fined $650 for the uninsured matter, $500 for the driving unlicenced matter and $200 for not wearing a helmet.

Man unsuccessfully tries to quash drink driving conviction

A St Clair man convicted of mid-range drink driving has failed to have his conviction overturned on appeal.

Majdi Jebril fronted Penrith District Court last Friday after being pulled over trying to drive the 1.5 kilometres home from the pub on April 16.

The court heard Jebril jumped behind the wheel after suffering a panic attack and was pulled over less than a minute later, returning a mid-range reading of 0.145. His lawyer submitted the conviction could negatively impact his employment, explaining her client was subject to police checks.

But Acting Judge Rodney Madgwick noted he was almost into the high-range.

“This is an intelligent man who realised he was having a panic attack... he could not have been unaware he was over the limit,” he said.

The father-of-two was granted some concessions, however, with Acting Judge Madgwick reducing his fine to $600 and quashing the mandatory alcohol interlock order, which follows a conviction of midrange and high range drink driving.

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

Glenmore Park: Wrong house targeted in weekend shooting

Investigations are continuing following a public place shooting that occurred in Glenmore Park on Friday, August 2.

At about 8.35pm police were called to a house on Hassall Way, Glenmore Park, after several shots were fired at the premises.

A man and woman in the home at the time were uninjured.

A short time later a vehicle was found alight on Aberdeen Circuit, Glenmore Park. Inquiries suggest this vehicle was linked to the shooting.

Crime scenes were established at both locations and detectives from Nepean Police Area Command continue with investigations into the incident.

Police have since confirmed that the wrong address was targeted. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police investigate the shooting

Luddenham: Woman seriously injured in head-on crash

A woman was seriously injured in a two-car crash at Luddenham on Tuesday, August 6.

Emergency services were called to The Northern Road at Luddenham after a northbound Yaris and a southbound Corolla collided head-on at 5.25am.

A woman driving the Yaris sustained multiple injuries and was treated at the scene by paramedics before being airlifted to Westmead Hospital.

A teenage girl travelling with the woman escaped injury.

A man driving the Corolla was taken by road ambulance to Liverpool Hospital suffering leg and abdominal injuries.

Police have been told the injuries are not life-threatening.

The Crash Investigation Unit is now investigating the circumstances.

Kingswood: Security guard attacked at Nepean Hospital

A man has been charged after an unprovoked attack on a security guard at Nepean Hospital on Sunday, August 4.

At 6pm a 28-year-old Eastern Creek man attended the hospital where he approached a security guard who was standing in the waiting room and punched him in the face.

He was restrained by other assisting security officers until police arrived.

He charged with one count of ‘common assault’ and was granted bail to appear at Penrith Local Court on September 16.

St Marys: Woman charged after assaulting police officer

A neighbourhood dispute led to the assault of a female police officer on Sunday, August 4.

At 1.40pm police attended an address on Liddle Street, St Marys after reports of a neighbourhood dispute.

An ambulance was called for a 34-yearold woman who was highly distraught and emotional.

Upon its arrival she became aggressive and resisted assistance which led her to punch a 25-year-old female police officer in the face.

The officer was conveyed to Nepean Hospital where she was treated for a 3cm laceration on the face.

After the attack, the offender ran but was apprehended by police a short distance away.

She was arrested and charged with ‘assault police in the execution of duty causing actual bodily harm’.

She is to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, August 20.

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

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Don’t rely on a handshake Do you run a small business? Do you provide goods or services to third parties in return for money? If the answer is yes, do you have a Services Agreement in place that sets out the terms and conditions of the relationship you have with your customers and clients or do you operate your business on a handshake?

Whilst handshake business arrangements are an honourable way of doing business, they often lead to conflict usually arising out of a lack of understanding between parties to a commercial arrangement.

A Services Agreement or your Terms of Trade is a document that sets out the terms on which you agree to provide (or receive) goods or services to or from another business. The document sets out a range of critically important matters, including but not limited to: • the parties (i.e. are you doing business with an individual or a company?)

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• termination rights.

These types of documents can also include things like discounts for early payment of invoice and other bespoke arrangements you might agree with your customers and clients.

The reason a Services Agreement or Terms of Trade document is absolutely necessary is to ensure that all of the parties to a commercial arrangement are on the same page from the start.

Most people who find themselves in commercial disputes arising out of arrangements that were not documented in the beginning are in that situation as a result of a misunderstanding between the parties as to what the terms of the commercial arrangement were.

Whilst things are going well and goods and services are being provided and paid for on time, these arrangements work fine. If however one party has to take action against another, for example for non-payment or for below par goods or services, this is when the handshake agreement potentially leaves both parties vulnerable.

We can assist you in developing a template Services Agreement or Terms of Trade that you can use for every one of your customers and clients in your business.

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The only way to make sure that parties to a commercial arrangement have the same understanding of the terms of said arrangement is to write them down.

Contact us today for assistance.

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NICOLA BARTON

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he trauma has been compared to that of sexual assault but despite this, more and more innocent young people from Penrith are being forced into strip searches at music festivals across the state.

Pressure is mounting on NSW Police after crimeless victims told their stories at the recent drug inquest.

Those subjected to strip searches at festivals told how a fun night out turned into an experience they’ll never forget for all the wrong reasons.

Forced to remove their clothes, squat and cough in tents that were not fully enclosed or private, the experience is common for festival-goers.

18 - year - old Brooke Parkinson said although she had no drugs on her person, a police dog sniffed her and she was immediately escorted to a tent – an experience she said was both humiliating and dehumanising.

“I felt like a criminal having to remove all my clothes and have them search my body for any substances,” she told the Weekender.

“The lady asked me to take off my skirt

which she searched also, then I had to take down my undies. While this was happening, a male officer had walked past and because the opening of the section I was in didn’t have a door, he could easily see through to me.

“I was then asked a final time if I had anything on me which I replied ‘I’ve told two others that I didn’t’ and she sighed with frustration, as if she wasted her time.”

Cranebrook resident Rhys Jones describes the treatment by police as “aggressive thuggery”.

“It was pretty embarrassing and shameful, especially the part where I was grabbed with enough force to stop a terrorist from my group of friends and dragged to the tent with my hands behind my back and then having to squat and spin around while naked,” he said.

“The result was them finding nothing and letting me go.

“I could definitely see how it would hurt and affect a lot of people that have prior traumas as it was stressful for me and I don’t have any.”

In NSW if police officers have suspicions on ‘reasonable grounds’ they are able to conduct a search, but critics say this is a grey area.

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Teenager Brooke Parkinson was strip searched at a music festival. Photo: Megan Dunn “The law flies in the face of child protection and harm minimisation principles.

It is an antiquated, harmful and abusive practice that needs to stop,” Head of the Police Accountability Practice at Redfern Legal Centre, Samantha Lee said.

“The fact that this practice is being

carried out with such frequency is both highly disturbing and completely unnecessary.”

According to Redfern Legal Centre a total of 95 young people in Penrith were strip searched during 2016 to 2018.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

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After the death of her son last year, local mum is speaking up about mental health NICOLA BARTON

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The late Lucas Eggleton with his mum Donna Fletcher

Donna Fletcher at the Hope Walk event last weekend. Photo: Megan Dunn needs to be more prodding past that simple question.”

Before Mr Eggleton’s passing, he was receiving professional help but Ms Fletcher said there just aren’t enough readily available services out there.

“I work in the homeless sector, trying to get someone scheduled to be seen is crazy,

people can’t wait, they need care now on that day when it’s all red and raw,” she said.

At the Hope Walk, other speakers came forward each with their own story but all with a similar message, encouraging people to look out for one another and speak up when they are struggling.

“We were just an average family and now we are a family that is broken, we’re all still so close but one of us is missing,” Ms Fletcher said.

“There’s the bartering of if only, if only he spoke out that day, if only he came straight home that night, if only, I can go through life bartering with ‘what ifs’ but my answer is we need to talk, not just ask if you’re OK, actions are what we need.”

Ms Fletcher said her son used to say “mum, you’re a do- gooder, keep doing good”, and now, using her voice to spread this very important message, she is doing just that.

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t’s been nine months since the community felt the tragic passing of 21- year- old Lucas Eggleton, but his memory remains as friends and family spread his story to advocate for men’s mental health awareness.

Just two weeks short of his 22nd birthday, Mr Eggleton took his own life after a long battle with a mental illness.

His mother, Donna Fletcher, has since made it her mission to do whatever she can to offer support or service to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

On Saturday, Ms Fletcher spoke at the Penrith Hope Walk event at the Nepean River.

Organised by the Western Sydney Suicide Prevention and Support Network, the event aimed to help break down the stigmas associated with suicide.

“These events are so important because there’s just a huge stigma about men and talking about their feelings,” Ms Fletcher said.

“The figures are so high and we just aren’t talking about it enough, the statistics dropped when the R U OK? campaign came out but they are back up now and that’s because there’s no depth in it, there

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

“One of us is missing”

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Locals warned to be on high alert for scam calls NICOLA BARTON

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WW38325

elephone scammers. To some they are a nuisance, to others they’re are a joke but residents of all ages in the community are still falling for their tricks and they’re not alone.

Last year Australias were extorted out of $107 million with 177,516 scams reported to the ACCC’s Scamwatch, up from 91,617 in 2014.

Over the past few months a number of incidents have been reported to the Nepean Police Area Command after residents received phone calls from people pretending they worked for the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

With the new financial year commencing, scammers have been claiming that people have unpaid taxes or have committed tax fraud.

They then demand money through the form of iTunes, Google Play or other forms of gift cards.

But with their methods rapidly advancing, it’s clear that scammers are not going to disappear anytime soon.

Shadow Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowalands said it’s time for the Federal Government to take action.

“Nobody needs persuading, there is a serious problem here. The question is how best to address it, and quickly,” she said.

Call spoofing is becoming a snowballing issue as it appears to be a legitimate Australian number, making it increasingly difficult for telecommunication operators to block.

“It seems odd that criminals based overseas can effortlessly use Australian telephone numbers they don’t own to generate calls and rip people off,” Ms Rowlands said.

“The explanations for this vary, but clearly the international standards and interconnect arrangements that underpin voice calling were not adequately designed to safeguard against this problem.”

Network-based caller ID authentication and having a dynamic scam blacklist are just some of the potential solutions she suggested.

Detective Inspector Steven Peroni said it is vital for Penrith residents to report any suspicious calls they receive.

“We remind the community to not hand out any personal details to anyone claiming to be from the ATO or elsewhere, if in doubt you should always call the publicly available ATO number to confirm,” he said.

Residents are reminded that the ATO would never threaten them with immediate arrest, ask for them to provide personal information like credit card numbers or ask for payment through the form of gift cards.

Temporary traffic changes

to M4 Reservoir Road on ramp, westbound to Penrith from Wednesday 14 August 2019.

Progress has been made and further improvements to the M4 Motorway are underway with the introduction of new technology to monitor traffic conditions, manage the flow of vehicles entering the motorway and respond to incidents in real time.

The first of this new technology, ramp signals, will be tested on the M4 Reservoir Road on ramp to Penrith from 14 to 27 August 2019. This is part of a tailored technology solution using real time information, communication and traffic management to create a better travelling experience and more reliable trips for drivers on the M4.

Ramp signals on motorway entry ramps manage the flow of vehicles entering the motorway. This will help smooth traffic on the M4 during peak periods or in heavy traffic. The signals run on a fast cycle, with only a few seconds between amber, red and green lights. When the lights turn green, one vehicle per lane will be able to drive along the ramp and merge onto the motorway.

This is all part of a larger plan designed with people in mind, improving our motorways and connecting Sydney.

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Drivers are advised when using the M4 Reservoir Road on ramp, westbound to Penrith from Monday 14 August to observe the ramp signals.

For further information visit rms.nsw.gov.au

Premier Gladys Berejiklian visits local primary school to launch Education Week NICOLA BARTON

S

tudents’ voices echoed from the border to the bush on Monday as St Marys North Public School and Dubbo College Senior Campus simultaneously kicked off Education Week.

Now in its 65th year, Education Week is an annual event to celebrate NSW public education and communicate the achievements of schools, their students, staff and families.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian launched the North St Marys event, while the Minister for Education and Early Learning, Sarah Mitchell, launched the Dubbo event.

Live stream projections at each school allowed both to run ceremonies in conjunction with one another.

Ms Berejiklian said Education Week is a celebration of students and staff but also a time to reflect on what more needs to be done to improve education opportunities.

“Education Week is all about supporting our 2200 schools across the state and acknowledging that students are our future and that students are what make a difference to the future of our state and our nation,” she said.

“As a government, we are here to support our schools, no matter where they are, no

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

Celebrating education

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian speaks with students at St Marys North Public School on Monday matter where they are located and Education Week is not about just celebrating our student outcomes but also for me, as the Premier of NSW, I think about what I need to do to make sure that our schools are the best on the planet.”

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott said the theme of Education Week – Every student, every voice – was

about more than just giving NSW students a say.

“It is about us listening,” he said.

“The idea of a genuine conversation is important. Recent research, co-funded by the department, shows that valuing and acting on the ideas, opinions and expertise of all students has significant positive impacts on student wellbeing.

“Student perspectives, experiences and aspirations shape and enrich our schools and communities and actively influence our decision-making.”

Monday’s launch kick-started a week of celebrations with public schools across the state holding showcase events for their communities, including open days, special assemblies and performances.

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LEADING HAND - SPECIALISED MINOR CIVIL WORKS Are you experienced in carrying out minor specialised Civil works across a range of projects? Have an ability to deal with Clients on site, providing a high standard of customer service? Must be able to interpret plans, obtain and apply levels, carry out minor landscaping, formwork and concreting. Must have a clear understanding of and commitment to safe work and compliance and be able to lead the team on site to produce a high standard of workmanship and service to meet clients’ needs.

Will be available to complete out of hours shifts and living away if required. Confident operation of Excavator & Skid Steer machine would be an advantage. Civhix is a division of Hix Group which is a Penrith-based business with work throughout Sydney and a range of locations beyond. We employ a team of skilled tradespeople in electrical, plumbing,fire services and Civil works and offer great conditions and opportunities.

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19

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Security camera sales soar Online shopping creates growing parcel theft problem, and locals are hitting back NICOLA BARTON

S

ecurity cameras are flying off the shelves as online shoppaholics face a growing issue in the Penrith community – parcel thefts.

It’s no secret local residents love the convenience of shopping at the click of a button, but with more and more people experiencing thefts, locals are turning to security systems to help catch thieves red-handed.

Waterside resident Bron Stokes knows this all too well after having $250 worth of one- of- a- kind hand- made jewellery swiped from her front door step.

She said despite her door being far back from the road and hidden from site she, like many others in the Estate, has been targeted.

“They basically follow the posties as they go around, it happened to my neighbour too on the same day around the same time,” Ms Stokes said.

“We’re looking at getting security cameras now and trying to find the best ones for what we need.”

While Ms Stokes was lucky to receive her money back, this isn’t the case for most.

A spokesperson from Australia Post suggested residents opt for different

Bron Stokes and her family are getting security cameras to prevent future thefts

safety precautions if they are concerned their deliveries may be stolen.

“Customers concerned about mail security can opt to use a PO Box or have tracking and signature on delivery added to their delivery,” the spokesperson said.

“Customers with a free MyPost account can choose to have their parcels redirected to a post office, a PO Box, or use one of our free 24/7 parcel lockers.”

Secure Your Home CEO, Scott Cairns, said online shoppers are creating a boom in the purchase of home security products.

“We are seeing sales of motion sensor security cameras and smart padlocks soar,” he said.

“Most motion sensor security cameras can be linked to a mobile device, such as a smart phone with an app. This means that people are alerted by their app that someone is at their property and they can watch the vision of the delivery driver actually delivering the parcel.”

Many local residents have opted for this option and use the security footage to hand into police or to help warn neighbours in the future.

Mail that is tampered with or goes missing from a resident’s property after it has been delivered is a criminal matter.

It is recommended that these matters are reported to Penrith Police.

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

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In your article today headed ‘Councillor calls for tribute statues’ (Weekender August 2) I wish to concur with Councillor Cornish’s idea of saluting our earlier pioneers in the Penrith area. However, he did put forward the possibility of vandalism. This can be overcome by placing statues or sculptures in the foyers of government buildings, shopping centres or sporting arenas. My choice for a statue would be for aviator William Ewart Hart.

An obvious placement of his statue would be in the new Western Sydney Airport Terminal.

GREG EDWARDS, CARLINGFORD

Amanda Little Principal Solicitor Suite 10, 86 Henry St Penrith NSW 2750 PO Box 662 Penrith NSW 2751 T: (02) 47 616 935 F: (02) 47 616 939 WW37959

Typical lack of planning and thinking by the government agencies (Crashes, chaos and confusion, Weekender August 2). There is no reason they couldn’t have foreseen the problem and planned to minimise it. This is the usual approach of trying to save money then spending more to fix a problem they created. No doubt the taxpayer will pay more to fix the problem.

PETER STEWART, VIA FACEBOOK

Drivers should take more care If you can’t drive to the conditions maybe you should hand back your

licence! People will whinge about anything these days! Probably also the same people who complained about the traffic and now it’s being fixed, still complain!

KATE CLARKE, VIA FACEBOOK

RCG on the move?

I’m very disappointed to hear that Reagan Campbell-Gillard could be on his way out of Panthers (Masked Panther, Weekender August 2). Penrith officials need to find a better way to handle poor form and a rumoured bad attitude than simply moving players on, like they have done with the likes of Matt Moylan, Waqa Blake and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak. I want to support a team that can compete for premierships, not one that is constantly knocking down the house and re-building it.

TONY ZAMMIT, VIA EMAIL

Time to tell the truth I know we like to be politically correct, but Kingswood residents should just tell the truth (Boarding house battle, Weekender August 2). The real reason they don’t want boarding houses is they think that the residents of such houses are down-and-out people likely to steal from them and cause problems.

STEVE DREW, VIA EMAIL

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space.

For more information, see our public notices section.

the western weekender Âť Friday, August 9, 2019

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Take advantage of this unique opportunity to downsize to a stylish new single level home, with the peace mind that you'll be living amongst like minded neighbours but still be part of a broader community. Jordan Springs will soon be home to a new retirement village, conveniently located in walking distance to shops, cafes and Woolworths, and with a local bus to nearby Penrith.

As well as the landscaped pathways, picturesque lake and Jordan Springs' many other attractions, residents will have exclusive access to private facilitiies inlcuding an indoor heated pool, clubhouse and cinema.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

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Local woman’s century of blood donations has helped save more than 300 lives EMILY FESZCZUK

K

errie Opdam has clocked up an impressive milestone – making her 100th blood donation last week.

Ms Opdam, who donates at the Red Cross Blood Service’s Nepean Donor Centre, has now saved over 300 lives.

She started donating blood in the late 1980s but began donating regularly again in the last few years.

“I worked in Parramatta and then the city so would donate with a group of colleagues but then when I had children and wasn’t working, I stopped donating,” Ms Opdam said.

“My husband actually got sick which made me want to go back to donating so I started donating plasma every couple of weeks, which I have been doing regularly for about four years.”

Donating blood is an easy way for Ms Opdam to give back to the community where she can.

“Plasma builds up quickly so I can donate frequently and it’s something simple I can do to give back to the community instead of donating money,” Ms Opdam said.

“It doesn’t take long, it doesn’t hurt, the people at the centre are super friendly and it makes me feel good to be doing

Kerrie Opdam makes her 100th blood donation last week. Photo: Megan Dunn

LOOKING

FIRST

something that helps people who are sick or help towards research.”

While she is very proud of her donation efforts, Ms Opdam doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon.

“My Dad funnily enough has actually donated blood a few hundred times but he has stopped now because he is older,” Ms Opdam said.

“I would like to if I can continue on my way to reach 500 but we will just have to see how we go.”

Blood Service spokesperson Nicky Breen thanked Ms Opdam for her generosity and called on other members of the community to get involved with the Nepean Donor Centre, now operating seven days a week.

“By becoming a regular blood donor just like Kerrie, you will be helping the one in three Australians who will need blood or blood product in their lifetime,” Ms Breen said.

“By keeping our doors open longer, the donor centre is providing our donors with more flexibility and options to donate.”

One third of blood donations help treat people suffering from cancer. The blood you donate can be made into 22 different medical treatments.

To book an appointment, visit www. donateblood.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Buy a nose and help kids Red Nose Day: Research and assistance continues to be funded by novelty day EMILY FESZCZUK

I

n its 31st year, Red Nose Day has a new date and a significant new focus that will lead the way in reducing sudden and unexpected infant deaths.

Today, August 9, Australians are being urged to get involved to raise funds for vital research and support.

Chief Midwife Jane Wiggill has seen firsthand the tragedy that touches families dealing with stillbirth and neonatal death.

“I’m a practicing midwife so I’ve had to meet with families who have lost children to SIDS,” Ms Wiggill said.

“I’ve been with Red Nose for just over 12 months and I feel very passionate about the work we do, and we won’t ever stop finding answers for parents.”

The charity has funded a new project to educate pregnant mothers on the importance of sleep position to prevent late-term stillbirth but are still aware that support is needed.

“We really want to stop little lives being cut short, so we are educating health professionals and everyday people about safe sleeping on the side to protect their babies in the womb then after they are born,” Ms Wiggill said.

Penrith paramedics Paul, Liu, Steve, Maggie and Stefania are supporting Red Nose Day this year. Photo: Megan Dunn “We do understand though that this can and will occur, so we want to be able to keep providing our 24-hour, seven days a week bereavement support free of charge but the only way to do that is if people are supporting us.”

People are encouraged to get in the spirit

by purchasing a red nose today for a very serious issue.

“Over 10,000 children’s lives have been saved, but still more than 3,000 die every year and we want to drive those numbers down to zero,” Ms Wiggill said.

“The red nose has been around from the

start and is symbolic. It is a little bit silly but that little bit of silliness is for a lot of good.”

Locals are encouraged to purchase a Red Nose Day product such as the iconic red nose from Big W and other retailers or make a donation online.

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

Family History Month

We are happy to announce that Wisdom Dental now offers a complete array of dental services:

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How much do you know about your family history?

Penrith City Library is celebrating National Family History Month by going back to the past and remembering Penrith 200 years ago.

The Library is hosting a Convicts and Colonists History Conference and a Family History Fair on Saturday, August 31 from 10am-4pm to celebrate the ties between Penrith City and its people.

Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Emu Plains Convict Farm, the conference goes back to Penrith’s past during the early colonial era and explores how the farm was established in 1819 and the important role it would play in the Nepean district before its closure.

Its streets and paddocks would be used to lay out the future village that would become Penrith City.

The conference will feature special performances by Acting Factory and notable guest speakers who have a background in archaeology and historical land research.

It’ll be a great day learning about our history for only $25.

The Family History Fair that runs at the same time as the Conference celebrates family history and genealogy and is a great opportunity for family historians to learn more about how to research their ancestry from professional researchers. This event is free.

Convicts and Colonists History Conference and Family Fair will be held at Penrith City Library, with the conference at the Theatrette and the fair at the lower lounge.

As an avid history buff, I’ll definitely be attending the conference and fair.

These events are a great opportunity for you to dive into your history and learn more about your ancestry and local community.

National Family History Month is an annual event in August that celebrates family history and genealogy.

Researching family history is one of the most popular hobbies in the world, and Penrith City Library has resources that can help you begin your dive into your family history today.

Book your tickets now through penrith.city/events.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

After giving a kidney to his daughter, Trevor Rickett says organ donation is critical EMILY FESZCZUK

T

Trevor Rickett donated a kidney to his daughter. Photo: Megan Dunn the one I lost, and my function is improving every time I get blood tests which is good.”

While Mr Rickett was a living donor to save his daughter, he encourages more people to chat with their family and

WWD1920 1907

revor Rickett from Cambridge Park has given his daughter Alison Kellard the most priceless gift a parent ever could.

The Nepean Hospital Campus carpenter donated one of his kidneys to save his daughter’s life.

37- year- old Ms Kellard suffered kidney damage 15 years ago during childbirth, so her dad stepped up to help.

“I was third time lucky as my wife and Ally’s husband both offered to be a donor, but when all the tests came back that I was a match, I was happy to help,” Mr Rickett said.

“It’s was a no brainer really as it was my family and her kidney function was at 10 per cent so her next stop was dialysis. I was very lucky to be a match.”

After undergoing the transplant operation in November last year both dad and daughter are doing well.

“It is unbelievable to see how well she is now and the difference in her with how much energy she has. Everything has been great, no rejection and good kidney function levels,” Mr Rickett said.

“They said in the next 12 months my kidney will get stronger to compensate for

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

Father’s greatest gift of all

friends about registering to be an organ and tissue donor.

“Once you have been into the clinics and you see the people waiting for organ transplants and how sick they are, it’s just the right thing to do,” Mr Rickett said.

“There are so many sick people waiting for transplants so the more people that can sign up to provide them the better.”

To find out more information and to take the necessary steps to register to become a donor visit www.donatelife.gov.au.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Simple donation could give women back their dignity

Volunteers Annice Wallington, Madeline Tipping and Staci Vicary EMILY FESZCZUK

S

hare the Dignity’s August collection drive is underway with the organisation encouraging people to donate sanitary items to their drop-off boxes at Woolworths supermarkets.

Rochelle Courtenay, who founded the charity four years ago, said there is still a great need to provide pads and tampons to women in need.

“I was embarrassed that I had never thought that women would have to use socks, newspaper or wadded up toilet paper to deal with their period but the problem is everywhere,” she said.

“Whether they are poor, homeless or just escaped domestic violence, it’s our job to help our sisters who are too embarrassed to ask for help in the first place. I couldn’t imagine a life with periods with no access to sanitary.”

4,600 female volunteers, known as ‘Sheros’, around the country will collect the items then distribute them to 3,500 charities making sure that the products help local women.

To donate to the Share the Dignity collection drive throughout August, visit Cranebrook, Jordan Springs and Penrith Woolworths stores.

For more information, visit www. sharethedignity.com.au.

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WIN

Ar Face e you o ur in th e C this wee rowd k?

See

Insid e

SHARK ALARM PANTHERS LOOK TO AVOID THREE STR AIGHT LOSSES

MASKED PANTHER > P30 Ivan Cleary and Paul Kent’s heated phone call plus cheerleaders win $10k

KIKAU’S PROMISE > P34 Back from suspension, big forward says he won’t change his playing style

WHERE ARE THEY NOW > P37 We find out what former Panther Jody Gall is up to these days

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

Brought to you by

Defining era for rugby league

ANDY RAYMOND T

his week Fox League jumps in its DeLorean and heads back to the 70s for Retro Round.

The 70s were a magical era for rugby league with the introduction of the six tackle rule, the round the corner kicking style and contested scrums.

It was an era that saw John Sattler turn in one of the most courageous Grand Final displays when he defied doctor’s orders and played on with a broken jaw.

It also saw future Immortal, Graeme Langlands, don a pair of white boots and turn in an infamous performance after a pain killing injection went wrong.

It was an era that was dominated by some of the greatest names to play the game, Arthur Beetson, John Raper, Bob Fulton, Bob McCarthy, Steve Rogers and Langlands to name just a few.

History was made in 1977 when for the first time in 70 years, the Grand Final between the Parramatta Eels and St George Dragons went into overtime.

When both sides couldn’t be separated after 100 minutes the Dragons and Eels went toe- to- toe in the first Grand Final replay which the Dragons won 22-nil.

For the Panthers it was a decade of struggle, but growth. Along with the Cronulla Sharks they were the new boys on the block.

While the Panthers struggled at the bottom half the ladder, the Sharks came out of the blocks firing in the 70s and made their first grand final appearance in 1973.

Inspired by the form of Rothman’s Medallist Ken Maddison, the Sharks went into the deciding game of the season brimming with confidence, but were dashed 10-7 by a Bob Fulton inspired Manly side.

There was one shining light for the Panthers in the 70s with the Panthers making the final of the first ever Amco Cup in 1974.

Fast forward 40 plus years and the Panthers and Sharks are no longer the new kids on the block, they’re two well established sides in a battle for the Top 8.

When the pair lock horns on Friday night they do so knowing that the winning side will finish the weekend in the Top 8, while the loser will finish the weekend one loss closer to an early holiday.

The Sharks come into the game off the

Fox League goes back to the 1970s this weekend back of a convincing win over the Rabbitohs, while the Panthers were humbled by the bottom of the table Bulldogs.

This weekend may be Retro Round, but

it’s safe to say that neither side will be wanting to look backwards this weekend, they’ll be wanting to snare a win and look forward to a spot in the Top 8.

Every game of every round

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 9 • 7.55PM | PANTHERS STADIUM | REFEREES: GRANT ATKINS & PHIL HENDERSON

PANTHERS 1

Dylan Edwards

2 3 4 5 21 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Josh Mansour Dean Whare Brent Naden Brian To’o Matt Burton Nathan Cleary James Tamou (c) Mitchell Kenny James Fisher-Harris Viliame Kikau Liam Martin Isaah Yeo Sione Katoa Spencer Leniu Moses Leota Reagan Campbell-Gillard Frank Winterstein

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, August 9, 2019

MATCH PREVIEW

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Isaah Yeo in action against the Bulldogs. Photo: NRL Photos

TROY

DODDS This clash between Penrith and Cronulla at Panthers Stadium on Friday night marks the first ‘Finals come early’ match of August – not in the likely quality of the contest but certainly in its high stakes importance.

In the wake of last week’s loss to the Bulldogs, this match will tell us just how much heart this Penrith team has left.

To be honest, I’m scared to find out the answer.

After an incredible run of wins to get back into the top eight, all of the hard work was tossed aside last week by a performance that lacked energy and enthusiasm; allowing the Bulldogs to play spoiler at the back end of the season.

Penrith now find themselves outside

the top eight, facing a Cronulla side that sits on the same amount of competition points (20) yet has a far superior for and against.

Let’s be serious – if Penrith lose this one, it’s essentially goodnight to the 2019 season. I can’t see Penrith winning three games on the road after another loss, so this is essentially Grand Final day for Ivan Cleary’s men. And the task is pretty tough, given the Sharks sit at almost full-strength after recovering from a mid-season lapse and are looking good at the right time of the season.

The task of winning this one has been made a little more difficult with the suspension of James Maloney for tripping, with little- known youngster Matt Burton set to partner Nathan Cleary in the halves.

Nathan Cleary. Let’s talk about Nathan Cleary.

I’ve felt through the last couple of

2GB 873 ABC 702 seasons that his critics have been way too harsh. He’s 21-years-old and we’re expecting too much from him at his age; and silly comparisons to some of the greats of the game are unfair and foolish.

My mind hasn’t changed, but Cleary’s game does appear to have stagnated.

At this time of the season, boasting two halves that were picked for NSW this year, Penrith fans deserve to expect better than what was dished out against the Bulldogs.

Cleary and Maloney appeared to have very few answers to what was an impressive Bulldogs’ defensive effort, but as much as we can praise the opposition, there is no excuse for Penrith to have only bagged one try against a side that has conceded 420 points this season and gave the Panthers plenty of opportunities.

Penrith had 57 per cent of possession and at one stage had a one- man advantage, and still couldn’t take control of the

1

Josh Dugan

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

Sosaia Feki Bronson Xerri Josh Morris Ronaldo Mulitalo Shaun Johnson Chad Townsend Aaron Woods Jayden Brailey Matt Prior Briton Nikora Wade Graham Paul Gallen (c) Kurt Capewell Jack Williams Andrew Fifita Braden Hamlin-Uele

match. Every fan has a right to feel angry and rattled by the performance.

Perhaps Burton will add some muchneeded spark, while Cleary may step up given he takes full control of the team in the absence of Maloney and his usual fillin halves partner Jarome Luai. The return of Viliame Kikau is also a big plus.

I’m still willing to believe this Penrith side has some fire left in 2019; that the seven match winning streak was more than just fluke and luck; and that this squad will not simply let the opportunity of making the Finals slip through their fingers after doing such hard work through the middle part of the season.

Penrith haven’t beaten Cronulla since 2015. There could be no better time to break the drought than with your season on the line and your reputation as a quality football team in question.

Tip: Panthers by 4.

29

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

IVAN FIRES UP  Penrith coach Ivan Cleary was so angry

about a scathing article written by The Daily Telegraph’s Paul Kent on Tuesday that he made the rare move to pick up the phone and ring the veteran journalist.

The positive result was that Cleary agreed to clear the air with Kent on ‘NRL 360’ later that night, but prior to that agreement I’m told the phone conversation between the pair was exceptionally heated. Cleary took exception to a number of things in the article that he believed bordered on a personal attack.

 Meanwhile, the fallout continues from

Ivan Cleary’s discussion, or non-discussion, with referee Ashley Klein in the tunnel at half-time of the Panthers v Raiders match a fortnight ago. Fox League’s Andy Raymond is sticking to his guns over what he heard, and has copped plenty of flak as a result. Raymond is generally well respected around most NRL clubs and while he felt he was only doing his job by reporting what he’d seen between Cleary and Klein, it’s certainly left a few bruises, with Raymond stuck in the middle. In an emotional social media post last weekend, Raymond said: “I can walk with my chin up, my chest out and my head held high, in the knowledge I don’t and haven’t lied.”

 NRL CEO Todd Greenberg was full of

praise for the Panthers at a luncheon held at the club last week in support of the Men of League Foundation and country rugby league. The event, hosted by Fox League’s Yvonne Sampson, also featured insightful interviews with Panthers legend Greg Alexander and coach Ivan Cleary. Greenberg spoke well, dusting aside the constant criticism he cops to talk the game up and speak about Penrith’s bright future.

 Penrith forward Frank Winterstein has

been nominated for the 2019 Ken Stephen Medal. The 2019 Ken Stephen Medallist will be announced during Grand Final week, with voting now open on NRL. com, providing fans the opportunity to select a nominee they feel deserves to be a finalist. This is the 31st year of the Ken

NRL CEO Todd Greenberg speaking in Penrith last week.

Photo: Jeff Lambert / Penrith Panthers



Stephen Medal, with the award recognising the efforts of an NRL player who has not only achieved on the field, but has committed time off the field to supporting community projects.

Spotted: Bulldogs legend Terry Lamb desperately trying to get photos with Panthers fans in the corporate area at Bankwest Stadium last Saturday night.

Loves his Panthers.

 James Maloney has failed in his bid to

Congratulations to former Penrith Panthers cheerleaders Brooke Bowne and Nat Sinclair who last week won $10,000 on Channel 10’s ‘Celebrity Name Game’.

It was a closely fought contest but in the end Brooke and Nat took home the main prize, with the help of Anthony Callea and James Mathison.

play against the Sharks on Friday night, suspended for a week by the NRL judiciary for tripping. It’s hard to argue that the system isn’t flawed when Maloney cops a week out while Sam Burgess, who knocked out Matt Moylan resulting in the Sharks fullback being forced to sit out a week, walks away with only a fine. Something doesn’t feel right there.

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 We’ll see Spencer Leniu and most

likely Matt Burton make their NRL debuts against the Sharks tonight but I’m also hearing there could be another late shakeup to Ivan Cleary’s side, with a veteran player potentially being dropped.

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, August 9, 2019

FEATURE

YEO: ROOKIES READY TO GO TAYLOR Penrith will usher in two more NRL debutants for tonight’s clash against the Cronulla Sharks at Panthers Stadium, with five-eighth Matt Burton and prop Spencer Leniu the latest cubs to get a run in Ivan Cleary’s all-new line-up.

With James Maloney suspended and Jarome Luai out with injury, 19- yearold Dubbo product Burton will partner Nathan Cleary in the halves, while 18- year- old Kiwi Leniu will make his highly- anticipated first grade debut off the bench.

Since arriving at the Panthers last year, Burton has enjoyed an incredible ride to the NRL. Not only did he win the SG Ball title with Penrith in 2018, but he was also named Man of the Match following a stellar performance playing for NSW at the Under 20s State of Origin last month.

Burton scored two tries in the victory

and has been climbing the ranks at Penrith ever since.

Panthers backrower Isaah Yeo said he was proud to see a fellow Dubbo boy get a shot in the NRL. “I’m stoked for him, last year he was playing with Dubbo CYMS and this year he’s had a rapid rise,” he told Extra Time.

“Matt’s been outstanding in Jersey Flegg and has moved up to Cup and played really well there. He was Man of the Match in the Under 20s State of Origin too.

“It’s disappointing not to have Jimmy Maloney out there but it gives Matt a wonderful opportunity and I’m really stoked he’s a Dubbo boy too. He’s worked really hard and deserves it.”

With veteran playmaker James Maloney suspended for one week for tripping, it will be up to 21-year-old halfback Nathan Cleary to run the show alongside the rookie. Yeo said he and his teammates will be right behind the teenager.

“You can’t be throwing too much expectations on his shoulders, he’s a 19-year-old five- eighth. I expect Nathan to control

Isaah Yeo is excited to play alongside rookies Matt Burton and Spencer Leniu us around the park and Matt to take his opportunities where he can,” Yeo said.

“Matt just needs to come in and do his job, and the players around him will help him out for his debut.”

Another debutant fans are definitely excited to see on Friday night is teenage wrecking ball Spencer Leniu. After a strong start to the year, the Minchinbury junior was promoted to the club’s top 30

roster in June and has been inching closer and closer to a debut ever since.

“He’s been knocking on the door for six to eight weeks now,” Yeo said.

“But like fans have seen on videos the club’s posted online, he’s an attacking front rower who can score a lot of tries.

“You don’t get many of those come through at his age. Now he gets his opportunity. I think he’ll do a great job.”

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE Viliame Kikau speaks to the media on Monday.

Photo: Megan Dunn

BACK IN ACTION KIK AU RETURNS TO TACKLE RESURGENT CRONULL A NATHAN

TAYLOR

34

Penrith powerhouse Viliame Kikau says his recent suspension won’t stop him from playing hard and with plenty of aggression.

The Fijian’s return tonight from a shoulder charge suspension will be a huge boost for the Panthers after back to back losses saw them slip to ninth with five games remaining.

Speaking with the media on Monday afternoon, the 24- year- old said he was surprised to miss two weeks for his hit on Dragons half Darren Nicholls last month despite entering the judiciary full of confidence.

“If we thought it was that bad we wouldn’t have fought the charge, I would have just taken the one week early plea but we thought we had a good case and

unfortunately we didn’t come up with the result we wanted,” Kikau said.

“This time of year you don’t want to be missing games. Every game is important leading up to the Finals.”

The backrower’s two-match suspension shocked the league, with many of the game’s leading experts and supporters expressing their utter disappointment in how the game is adjudicated. Kikau, unsurprisingly, also isn’t a fan.

“I’m more disappointed with the way the game is going,” he admitted.

“Being a backrower, that’s your job to

put pressure on the ball player. Obviously, I come up against halves half my size, so I do my best to put pressure on them and make sure it’s legal. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be on that occasion, but I’ll still keep my aggression.”

While Penrith have certainly missed Kikau’s spark in recent weeks, he’ll be a welcome addition when they battle for a spot in the top eight against arch-rivals Cronulla.

The Panthers haven’t beaten the Sharks since 2015 and not many punters are giving them much chance of snapping

“WE HAVEN’T BEEN PLAYING LIKE A TOP EIGHT TEAM THE LAST TWO WEEKS”

that unwanted streak tonight, especially with James Maloney and Jarome Luai both out of the side.

“We haven’t been playing like a top eight team the last two weeks, we’ve been beating ourselves,” Kikau said.

“We played the Sharks in Cronulla earlier this year and we were up by 14 points but they came back to win. We don’t have a good record against them but this week’s game is so important to us and hopefully we’ll win.”

Penrith’s surprise 16-8 loss to Canterbury last Saturday night was just another in a long list of shocking performances in 2019.

With so much to play for, Penrith played down to their opposition and barely threw anything at them at all.

“We had our review about the game on the weekend and the boys are holding themselves accountable,” he said.

“Our attack went sideways a bit too much and we didn’t unsettle their defence.”

Can another rookie coach save the Gold Coast?

CLINTON MAYNARD T

he Gold Coast is Australia’s sporting wasteland.

History shows sporting franchises rarely work on the holiday strip. The NBL tried and failed, Clive Palmer gave it a shot in the A- League and that ended in tears, and the AFL has pumped tens of millions into the Suns who are anchored to the bottom of the table.

Rugby league should be successful in the region, south- east Queensland is league heartland. When the Gold Coast returned to the top flight in 2007 there was great hope. Since the area lost a league team in the 1990s the population had boomed, the time was right to try again.

After the failure of the Giants, Seagulls and Chargers, the initial years of the Titans indicated things had changed and this version of the Gold Coast would be successful.

Stars like Scott Prince, Preston Campbell and Mat Rogers led the new club to the Finals in just their third season and then they repeated it in 2010.

Since then it’s been nothing but bad news. The club went into voluntary administration in 2015 with the NRL

forced to step in to keep the organisation afloat.

What’s gone wrong? They have population, a great stadium and rugby league is in the heart of the region. From the outside it would appear players have too much power – players without the track record on the field. The last two coaches, Neil Henry and Garth Brennan, have both been sacked after losing the support of players. You’d never see this happen at the Melbourne Storm.

The Titans need a commanding figure as a coach, a man who demands respect of the players and if the players don’t like him, they are the ones who should go, none of them on the current list are indispensable.

Justin Holbrook has been appointed as coach, he comes with a great reference, however coaching a well established club in the UK Super League is very different to a struggling club with a history of failure in the NRL. Many within the game have questioned how the Titans could appoint another rookie coach. If the Titans are to dig themselves out of the hole, the club must give

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, August 9, 2019

Brought to you by

Flop: Bryce Cartwright has failed to fire at the Titans. Photo: Megan Dunn Holbrook 100 per cent backing. If he wants to sack the club’s top players in order to

change the culture, management must allow him. This must be his team.

WW38485

35

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

Storm

19

16

0

3

1

503

232

2 Roosters

19

13

0

6

1

497

305 +192 28

3 Raiders

19

13

0

6

1

435

278

+157 28

4 Rabbitohs

19

13

0

6

1

430

337

+93 28

5 Sea Eagles

19

12

0

7

1

408

328

+80 26

6 Eels

19

11

0

8

1

423

402

+21

24

7 Sharks

19

9

0

10

1

395

387

+8

20

8 W. Tigers

19

9

0

10

1

351

393

-42

20

9 Panthers

19

9

0

10

1

305

374

-69 20

CLUB

1

+/-

PTS

+271 34

10 Broncos

19

8

1

10

1

339

395

-56

19

11 Knights

19

8

0

11

1

377

392

-15

18

12 Warriors

19

7

1

11

1

353

423

-70

17

13 Cowboys

19

7

0

12

1

303

398

-95

16

14 Dragons

19

6

0

13

1

325

437

-112

14

15 Bulldogs

19

6

0

13

1

244

420

-176

14

16 Titans

19

4

0

15

1

302

489

-187 10

Thursday, August 8 7pm 1300SMILES Stadium

/ / / / / / / /

Friday, August 9 6pm Mt Smart Stadium

Friday, August 9 7.55pm Panthers Stadium Saturday, August 10 3pm Nestrata Jubilee Stadium Saturday, August 10 5.30pm Bankwest Stadium

Saturday, August 10 7.35pm ANZ Stadium Sunday, August 11 2pm GIO Stadium Sunday, August 11 4.05pm Central Coast Stadium

Eat with us this weekend

Get your menu in front of our readers ahead of the weekend.

36

FACE IN THE CROWD

Round 21

Con

IS THIS YOU? Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

If it is, you’ve won a $20 voucher to use at Spur restaurant right here in Penrith! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2019-022 PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Clinton Maynard / Andy Raymond SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

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WW38486

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES

Jody Gall Jody Gall played more than 100 first grade games for Penrith during two stints – from 1994 until 1998 and again from 2000 until 2002. He spent the 1999 season with North Queensland. We caught up with Jody to find out what he’s doing now, 17 years on from retirement...

What are your best memories of playing for the Panthers?

When I look back on my time with Penrith, the memories that created the most amount of pleasure and the most amount of pain were the best. Watching a player like Ryan Girdler create something out of nothing to win a match for us, or Carl MacNamara get knocked out and get back up in the defensive line so he wouldn’t let down the team. Getting yelled at by Brad Fittler who was at the time, pointing the finger at Col van der Voort and telling me to be just like him.

Getting my finger near chopped off and telling Maresy I think I have an issue with my finger. We still joke about it today. All the stitches from Norm, and all the surgeries. Those are some of my best memories.

What did you do immediately after your football career ended?

I got depressed. Playing football for Penrith was a childhood dream and when the dream was over, it felt like I

Jody Gall today was left with nothing. Of course I did have plenty to live for, but that is the truth of it.

What are you doing these days?

BEHIND THE PANTHERS

I coach people physically and mentally.

I also study psychology full- time and may even continue on with studying and eventually complete a doctorate.

What was the toughest part about adjusting to life after footy?

Rebuilding your identity in the absence of the notoriety afforded to the first grade footballer. Or for better words, redefining who you are and what you are about when you no longer get asked for autographs.

What advice would you give to current footballers nearing retirement?

Listen to, and talk to ex- players that have been down the same journey you will be on. Ask them about the challenges you may face, along with the opportunities that the belief in yourself can afford you.

Another bit of advice, take your time deciding what you want to do next, don’t just do something because it is easy, find something you are passionate about pursuing, being a first grade footballer is not all you can be, and it may not even be the best thing you can be. Along with that, just remember that without the jersey and notoriety that comes with it, there will still be people that are looking up to you, whether it be ex-fans, friends or your own family.

In other words, continue to be somebody’s hero.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, August 9, 2019

Where they y now?

Pantherare Flashback

SCOREBOARD NRL

BULLDOGS 16 PANTHERS 8

NSW CUP

BULLDOGS 26 PANTHERS 22

JERSEY FLEGG PANTHERS 28 BULLDOGS 28

GET OUT OF COMPUTER TROUBLE

FREE! General Manager Rugby League HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR PANTHERS? Seven years, with a year off in the middle.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING FOR PANTHERS? To be at a club that is prepared to put significant resources into developing boys into first grade footballers and fine young men.

WHO IS YOUR FUNNIEST COLLEAGUE AT PANTHERS? Recruitment manager Jim Jones. Ask him about the time he turned down the opportunity to sign a young Wendell Sailor.

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38

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Partners in crime on stage EMILY FESZCZUK

A

fter touring with their smash hit ‘ABBA- solutely Fabulous’ show for two years, entertainers Rhonda Burchmore and Lara Mulcahy return with a new sensational show.

Rhonda told the Weekender that the self- described ‘partners in crime’ came up with a plan to thrill audiences with some legendary partnerships.

“We decided to do a duet show that was incredibly unique in that we don’t impersonate but take on the traits from Sonny and Cher, Dolly and Kenny, The Greatest Showman with the bearded lady, even Aladdin and Jasmine and Shrek and Fiona,” Rhonda said.

“It is unique because the audience at Panthers are the inmates within a jail, so we are putting on a concert with a hot band to reduce our time in prison while we sing everything from ‘Proud Mary’ to Blues Brothers and ‘Jailhouse Rock’.”

With a big line- up, Rhonda said the show is guaranteed to be chaotic and provide plenty of laughs.

“The two of us have about 15 to 20 costume changes that we do on the stage, so it remains a duet,” she said.

“The audience will see us transform before their eyes but there is lots of space for absolute chaos but a lot of laughs if I

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

leave my beard on for Cher! There are a million duet shows going around but the two of us are hilarious together, we morph into these characters, sing killer arrangements and maybe we are too ambitious, but we even throw a tap dance in there as well.”

The best friends will bring their best on the stage as they play both female and male characters, Rhonda saying the highlight for them is the chance to perform together.

“We have incredible chemistry, vocally we blend and it’s just a lovely thing if you can get on stage and work with your bestie, it brings me absolute joy,” Rhonda said.

“We have a giggle at each other and laugh at ourselves, we can’t look at each other in our costumes but Lara as the bearded lady and me as Hugh Jackman is worth the price of admission really.”

Rhonda and Lara are huge stars in their own right, working across theatre and television for many years. Together, they are dynamite.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this hilarious high energy show which is the perfect party night.

It’ll be a crime to miss it!

‘Partners in Crime’ will be on at the EVAN Theatre in Penrith on Friday September 20 at 8pm. Tickets are from $45. To book or for more information, call 1300 PANTHERS or visit penrithpanthers.com.au.

Late Night (M Coarse language and sexual references)

Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:50PM, 6:20PM, 8:50PM. Sat, Sun: 1:20PM, 3:50PM, 6:20PM, 8:50PM.

PENRITH

Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan (MA15 Strong war themes and violence)

Daily except Sun: 10:30AM, 12:40PM, 9:20PM. Sun: 10:30AM, 6:20PM, 9:10PM.

SESSIONS VALID 8TH AUGUST TO 14TH AUGUST

Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw (M Action violence and coarse language) WW34887

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

Daily: 10:10AM, 11:00AM, 1:10PM, 2:10PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 5:30PM, 6:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:30PM, 9:30PM.

39

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, August 9

MVP – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Frocks – O’Donoghues Free entry, 9pm 4735 5509 Oz Icons – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Juke Box Jive – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Panthers vs Sharks – Panthers Stadium From $10, 7.55pm 4725 6400 Spot The Joan, 4723 7611 Friday, August 9, 10am & 12pm, From $20

Les Divas Penrith Panthers, 1300 665 059 Saturday, August 10, 8pm, From $35.45

Rob O’Brian – Workers Sports Free entry, 1pm 8822 2444 Sydney Arms Expo – Penrith Panthers $15, 9am 4571 1885 Country Music Concert – Nepean Rowing Club Free entry, 1pm 4732 2255

Friday, August 16

Matchbox Band – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 MVP – Workers Sports Free entry, 8pm 8822 2444 The Frocks – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002 Emu Craft Market – Nepean CAPA High School Free entry, 9am 0414 395 614 Sydney Arms Expo – Penrith Panthers $15, 9am 4571 1885

Steve Edmonds Classic Rock Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Wild Cherry – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Mr James Band – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Press Rewind – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002

Sunday, August 18

The Shuffle Boys – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Odd Angry Shot – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub $25, 3pm 4723 5050 Cascade – Workers Sports Free entry, 1pm 8822 2444

Saturday, August 10

WW38464

Saturday, August 17

Sunday, August 11

My Kids Market – Penrith Valley Regional Sports Stadium $4, 9am 0410 481 633 Rockin Eddie – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200

Special August Offer WINTER GARDEN ROAST at MAYFIELD GARDEN

40

530 MAYFIELD ROAD OBERON NSW 2787

Soweto Gospel Choir Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub 4723 5050 Saturday, August 17, 7.30pm, From $49.90

Kitty Flanagan The Joan, 4723 7611 Friday, August 16, 8pm, $54.90

Lisa Crouch & Dig This St Marys Leagues Club, 9677 7777 Saturday, August 10, 9pm, Free entry

Roe Zone – St Marys RSL Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 6555 Les Divas – Penrith Panthers From $35.45, 8pm 1300 665 059 Bob Gillepsie – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Underwraps – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Spot – The Joan From $20, 12pm 4723 7611 Mary’s Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4734 5555 SSO Fellows – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub From $15, 7.30pm 4723 5050 The Suits – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211

The Frocks – Workers Sports Free entry, 9pm 8822 2444 Antiques Collectables Fair – Penrith Panthers $8, 9am 1800 061 991 Marys Karaoke – Grey Gums Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4734 5555 Good Vibes – Tattersalls From $10, 8.30pm 4744 2002

Geoff Bull & The Finer Cuts – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Soul Nights – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Oils Tribute – Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9670 3050 Pink Chevys – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Endless Summer Beach Party – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Big Way Out – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 9pm 9623 1211 The Rockin’ Mustangs – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600

The Westies Markets Nepean CAPA High School www.thewesties.com.au Sunday, August 18, 9am, Free entry

Combine the raw beauty of Mayfield in winter with a delicious roast meal from our renowned paddock to plate café.

Amazing value at $40 adult, $35 conc. $25 kids, covers ticket to the garden, roast meal and a glass of mulled wine (or hot chocolate).

Walk-ins are limited, book online at www.mayfieldgarden.com.au or phone 6336 3131.

Family packages available.

O D UST

M

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Red Cross Penrith branch 2nd Thursday of the month CWA Room, 10am • 9623 6702 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Penrith Museum of Printing Saturdays from 10am-2pm Pen Paceway • 0415 625 573

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Nepean Retired Men’s Club Third Wednesday of each month • 0401 507 260 Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of each month • The Hub at 10am

Panthers and Sharks do battle at Panthers Stadium The Penrith Panthers are set to roar this week when they take on Cronulla at Panthers Stadium. Watch and cheer loud and proud as they attempt to maul the Sharks, which dare to enter their home ground. Watch your favourite players bring their best and don’t forget to enjoy some food and drinks. With entertainment and rides for the kids, it is a fun family night for all. Secure your ticket today and don’t miss a minute of the action. It is at Panthers Stadium on Friday, August 9 at 7.55pm. Tickets are from $10. Visit www.penrithpanthers.com.au.

DS I K R O F

FOR SE NIORS

Emu Market 2nd Saturday of the month Nepean High • 0414 395 614 Glenmore Park Probus Club Third Wednesday of the month • 9673 2580 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Mondays • 0407 077 143

Lazy Sunday at the Rowing Club

Free craft and entertainment for toddlers on Tuesdays at Glenmore Park Town Centre, held weekly from 10am-1pm.

Enjoy free country music with a view of the Nepean River at the Nepean Rowing Club this Sunday, August 11 from 1pm-3pm.

Penrith RSL Travel Club New members welcome 0405 332 464

WW38487

Free fun for the kids at Glenmore Park

41

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

MEMBERS

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42

EMILY FESZCZUK

T

o celebrate National Science Week 2019, Nepean Science Hub and Penrith Regional Gallery will present a scientific illustration workshop presented by Angus Fisher, natural sciences illustrator and lecturer in Fine Arts at The National Art School.

The Birds and Bones workshop will use a range of taxidermy (predominantly birds from the local environment), and skeleton specimens from various sources to depict the forms and biology of each animal.

Exploring the use of fine- line pens and watercolour paints on paper, the

scientific illustration workshops will focus on making accurate observations and representing the unique forms and textures in different skeleton specimens and plant species to provide an exploration and appreciation into what it takes to draw these amazingly complex and beautiful illustrations seen in textbooks, journals and online.

The class is suited for people over 16-years-old with no drawing experience required and includes all materials and lunch from Cafe at Lewers.

The Birds and Bones workshop will be held at Penrith Regional Gallery on Sunday, August 18 at 10am. Tickets are $90. To book, call 4735 1100 or visit www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

Workshop combines art and science

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Q THEATRE

KIDS & FAMILIES (AGES 10 – 14)

Duo’s incredible role in music’s history EMILY FESZCZUK

F

or the first time in Australia, the musical duo of Peter Asher and Albert Lee will perform together.

Peter Asher and Albert Lee’s history is one of song, and these duo storytellers’ show will reflect their history and feature the songs which influenced them along with songs they influenced.

These include the hits of Peter and Gordon, Buddy Holly, The Everly Brothers and more.

The men have had top 40 hits, won Grammy awards, toured the world and worked with the likes of Paul McCartney and Joe Crocker. As they tell stories of the travels that brought them to so many of the intersections along the road of music history, the two legends bring timeless songs to life.

Peter Asher and Albert Lee will be at the Blue Mountains Theatre and Community Hub on Friday, August 23 at 8pm. Tickets are $69.90. To book, call 4723 5050 or visit www.bluemountainstheatreandhub.com.au.

A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production

HITLER’S DAUGHTER Photo: Heidrun Lohr

Did Hitler’s daughter really exist?

This award-winning show tells the story of Hitler’s Daughter through the eyes of four Australian children. Today, in an age of fake news and fact manipulation, extreme ideologies and rising nationalism, there has never been a more important and relevant time to present this work.

FRIDAY 30 AUGUST 7.30PM Adult $25 | Children $20 | Family $80

BOOK NOW thejoan.com.au 4723 7600 WW38228

43

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

At the movies...

This franchise is getting tired FAST & FURIOUS: HOBBS & SHAW ++ 2 hours, 16 mins EMILY FESZCZUK

WW38482

This movie is not fast, but kind of left me furious.

‘Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw’ is a stand-alone spin-off which follows the previous eight films in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise.

It focuses on the rival duo of Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (Jason Stratham), who must join forces to take down the genetically enhanced threat Brixton Lore (Idris Elba).

They also must save an agent named Hattie (Vanessa Kirby), who carries a deadly virus and happens to be Shaw’s sister.

I’m not sure if director David Leitch

just put a camera on Johnson and Stratham and told them to try to fit in as many one liner insults as they could, but the banter got boring for me especially as the movie goes for nearly two-and-a-half hours.

It is an action movie but is almost overdone. The fight scenes and car chases had me sitting there thinking that isn’t possible, even for the best of the best. They have thrown in every weapon, celebrity cameos, anything that they can, I think in the hope to raise some revenue, but I wish it had a little more depth to the storyline.

I do understand the idea of a brainless movie you can sit back and enjoy, but this could have had a little more thought to it.

RAFFLE WIN WIN WIN

a double pass

KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED!

Sunday 1st September

Free to see kiss Tickets on sale from 2PM live Drawn at Workers Sports @ 3.30 FaceFROMPainTing 1PM-3PM PM

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the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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45

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

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

1

Crossword ACROSS 1. Stockpile 4. Dilutes 8. Soccer send-off , red ...

11. Squander 13. Parcels up (present) 15. Dominion 17. Dine late 18. Stomach crunch (3-2) 20. Ruin 21. Singer, Paula ...

24. Gate fastener 27. Bullfi ght cry 28. Revived (music) 30. Mexican mister 31. Slanted 33. Does penance (for) 34. Linking 35. Body fl uid lump 36. Respectful form of address (2’2) 39. Papeete is there 42. Ewe’s off spring 44. Manager 45. Cruel men 46. Sinks in middle 48. Barber’s honing leather 49. Cause (havoc) 50. India/Korea continent 52. Tree limb 54. Pod vegetables 55. Interesting relic 56. Bows to the inevitable 57. Shore 60. Comedy or tragedy 62. Powerless (to) 65. Make an entrance 67. Diameter halves 69. Political émigré 70. Related to hearing 72. Check out 73. Cool (breeze) 75. Cast a line 77. Monosodium glutamate (1,1,1) 79. Take as one’s own 81. iPad program 82. Alarm device 84. Covering 85. Accessory 86. Slippery fi sh 87. Kebab sticks 88. Once more

DOWN 1. Hurt 2. Conscious (of) 3. Chum 4. Fuse (metal) 5. Walkways between pews 6. Engage 7. Cram (for exam) 8. Cost of living index (1,1,1) 9. British vehicle, ...

Martin 10. Cheat 12. Sting 14. Ghostly 16. Too soon 19. Extremely 22. Kiosks 23. Familiar with (4,2) 25. Fragrances 26. Gets steeper 29. Military pageants 32. Club’s yearly meeting (1,1,1) 35. Beachside 37. Horse-like animals 38. Contempt 40. Savoury jelly 41. Inuit snow shelter 42. Long-limbed (colt) 43. Cut (timber) 44. Jellied meat loaf 47. Comprehended 51. Nanny (2,4) 52. Revered tomes 53. Hired guns (3,3) 54. Not singular 58. Voiced publicly 59. Failure 61. Originated 63. Nimble 64. Breathe 65. Go by (of time) 66. Invitation holder 68. Coral isle 71. Pakistani cricketer, ...

Khan 72. Missile fi n 74. Wheat spikes 76. Attempts 78. Bite persistently 80. Dance, ... de deux 83. Irish activists, Provisional ... (1,1,1)

Last week’s solution

2

3

11

15

4

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

21

28

22

23

29

18

24

25

27

31

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34

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46

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49

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51

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58

67

54

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62

60

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68

73

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71

76

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84

61

66

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86

37

43

48

57

19

26

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33

10

14

17

20

9

77

82

78

83

85

87

Sudoku brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

88

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Last week’s Sudoku solution

46

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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

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: THE MOON ARISTARCHUS ARMSTRONG CRATERS CRISIUM CRUST DORSA ESCARPMENTS GIBBOUS IMBRIUM LANDING LOW DENSITY LUNAR MOUNTAINS NEAR SIDE ORIENTALE PROMONTORIUM RILLES RIMA ROCKY RUBBLE SERENITATIS TERRA TIDES WANE WAX WINDING VALLEYS Last week’s Word Search solution

4. Who was the runner- up to Snezana in the 2015 series?

5. What is the occupation of the current Bachelor, Matt Agnew?

6. Who hosts ‘The Bachelor Australia’?

7. Who won ‘The Bachelor’ and Matty’s heart in 2017?

WW38403

Test your knowledge about The Bachelor Australia in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. The first Australian Bachelor is still married to the winner.

Who won back in 2013?

2. Who was the only Australian Bachelor not to pick any of the competing girls?

3. What was the profession of 2014 Bachelor Blake Garvey?

ANSWERS 1. Anna Heinrich 2. Nick Cummins 3. Auctioneer 4. Lana 5. Astrophysicist 6. Osher Gunsberg 7. Laura Byrne

Trivia Quiz

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

Ê The great Karl Stefanovic is back on our TV screens next week with the second season of ‘This Time Next Year’.

Filmed in early 2018 and 2019, it sees ordinary Aussies hoping to change their lives over a one year period. This is the first time Karl has hosted a show on Channel Nine since being stupidly dumped from ‘Today’ last December.

‘This Time Next Year’ premieres this Monday, August 12 at 9.15pm. Welcome back, Karl!

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê US sitcom ‘Will & Grace’ will end with its upcoming 11th season. The final episodes of the revival will be available on Stan in 2020. Ê A ‘Man vs. Wild with Bear Grylls and PM Modi’ special will air on Discovery on Tuesday, August 13 at 11.20pm. In the special, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi joins Bear Grylls in the Himalayan foothills of Northern India for an adventure he won’t forget. This sounds like a beauty and makes you wonder which world leader should join Bear Grylls next? Ê

Hit drama ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’,

AUGUST 13

8.30PM

which airs on SBS, has been renewed for a fourth season. The series is up for several Emmy awards next month.

Ê Huge news for basketball fans in Australia with two new TV deals for the upcoming NBL season announced. The 2019/20 season begins on October 3, and will see ESPN air 59 prime time games live on TV at 7.30pm, 8pm and 9.30pm across their ESPN, ESPN2 and WatchESPN service, with SBS VICELAND broadcasting 67 games, as well as all 126 games available to be streamed on SBS On Demand. The ESPN/SBS deal signals the end of NBL through FOX Sports and Nine. Ê The fifth and final season of ‘The Affair’ will premiere on Sunday, September 1 at 8.30pm on FOX Showcase. Starring Golden Globe nominee Dominic West,

AUGUST 12 9.15PM THIS TIME NEXT YEAR, 9

THE TITAN GAMES, FOX8 Golden Globe winner Maura Tierney, and Sanaa Lathan, ‘The Affair’ explores the emotional and psychological effects of an affair that destroyed two marriages, and the crime that brings these individuals back together.

Ê Hosted by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a new US reality show is coming to FOX8 on Tuesday, August 13 at 8.30pm.

‘The Titan Games’ sees exceptional, everyday men and women go head-tohead, testing their athleticism, physical strength and mental fortitude, with winners facing the ultimate challenge, battling on Mount Olympus in hopes of becoming a Titan. Ê A BBC Earth channel will launch on Foxtel later this year, replacing the longrunning BBC Knowledge.

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PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

Are you procrastinating about which project to pursue? A bored and unengaged Ram is a recipe for trouble.

With the Full Moon activating your aspirations zone, focus intently on your goals for the future. And with Neptune moving through your dreaming zone, it’s definitely time to follow your bliss.

As celebrity chef Julia Child said: “Find something you’re passionate about, and keep tremendously interested in it”.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The focus is on home sweet home as the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars all visit your domestic zone. Mid-week is the best time to patch up problems with a family member or tidy up and beautify your living or office space. Then Thursday’s Full Moon pushes you to display your true capabilities, as you discover your individual groove and assert your independence at work.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Mid-week is a wonderful time to resolve a misunderstanding with a friend or family member. If you walk a mile in their shoes, then you’ll have more patience and empathy for their current situation.

Then the Full Moon encourages you to explore and experiment as you study, travel or venture into brave new personal territory. It’s also time to capitalise on your international contacts. Who knows where they will lead in the future?

Joanne Madeline Moore

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Daily posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2019

If you’ve been burying your head in the sand, then a financial problem could come to a head and demand to be addressed. The planets encourage you to be direct about dealing with challenges.

Definitely no side-stepping allowed!

Wednesday is the best day of the week to express your creativity or organise a romantic rendezvous. Do your best to avoid being a snappy Crab on Thursday!

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are all travelling through your sign. So it’s time to tap into the very essence of what makes you the fiery, creative, demanding Diva that you are. Don’t let relationship rumbles, work worries or financial fiascos diminish your delightfully flamboyant demeanour. Be inspired by model and actress Cara Delevingne: “Be brave.

Believe in yourself. Make yourself proud”.

Spoken like a true Lion!

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

You’re in the mood for foreign travel as you dream of exotic destinations and romantic escapades. Unhappily single?

Start planning your itinerary ASAP because you could meet your soul mate on your next holiday. Attached Sagittarius – you could play gregarious host to family or friends who come to stay from far away. If you have a problem, then turn to a relative for some advice. They will offer an alternative perspective.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Prepare for a colourful and chaotic week!

Mercury is powering through Leo until August 29. So creative ideas and persuasive arguments will keep your mercurial mind well stimulated. Friday looks rather disruptive though, when Uranus takes your usual routine and turns it upside down. With a fun and flexible attitude, you’ll sail through any temporary turbulence and order will be restored.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

It’s all about money honey, as the Full Moon stirs up trouble and you need to find an innovative solution to a cash flow problem. If you’re a clever Cap, then you’ll pal up with a financially astute person who helps you find ways to develop a second stream of income. The more proactive, creative and collaborative you are, the more positive your financial future will be!

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Wednesday looks wonderful, when the Sun and Venus encourage you to make a wish list of your goals for the future.

The Aquarian Full Moon also stimulates your peer group, hopes and wishes zones.

So make sure you surround yourself with family, friends and colleagues who encourage your talents and support your dreams. As Madonna said: “I stand for freedom of expression, doing what you believe in, and going after your dreams”.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Thursday’s Full Moon amps up your Aquarian need for freedom, independence and avant-garde adventures. But don’t feel you have to tackle a current project or problem on your own. The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are visiting your relationship zone, so there are plenty of people around who are happy to help.

All you have to do is sum up the courage to ask. On Friday too much haste could lead to an argument, so pace yourself.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

You have ambitious professional plans and goals for the future but sometimes you hold yourself back for fear of looking foolish. This week’s stars encourage you to be confident and proactive as you reach for the stars! You’re in the mood to fix something around the house or repair a problematic relationship with a relative. A family member could also turn to you for some insightful words of wisdom.

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

life

your

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

With the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars visiting your job zone, dynamic and decisive action is required at work.

Don’t waste your numerous talents with constant daydreaming that leads nowhere! If you procrastinate and dither around, then lucrative opportunities and important connections will promptly pass you by. On Thursday you’ll feel compelled to help someone in need.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

your Candace Sciberras

health

BODY & MIND FITNESS

Dietitian at OnePointHealth

4732 5188 | onepointhealth.com.au

How your gut can affect your brain...

In recent years research is showing that the gut microbiome and brain communicate in a bidirectional manner, with each affecting the other’s function. Gut microbiome may affect brain function thereby having an impact on stress, anxiety, depression, autism and cognition. Who would have thought?

This connection is called The BrainGut-Microbiome Axis, where these two organs are connected both physically and biochemically in a number of different ways. They are linked through the nervous system, immune system, neurotransmitters and the Vagus nerve.

The state of the gut microbiome is dramatically influenced by antibiotics, stress, infections and diet. In today’s society, our gut health is greatly compromised due to Australians overusing antibiotics and experiencing more stress than ever according to a survey from the Australian Psychological Society. Not only does stress negatively impact your gut health, but also suppresses the immune system leaving you susceptible for illness. It is important to manage and reduce stress through activities such as exercise and meditation.

Key points to improve your gut microbiome through the diet: Probiotics: These are live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit to the host. Probiotics can be found within fermented food products such as kombucha, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut or as a nutritional supplement.

Prebiotics: These are indigestible food products that stimulate the growth of bacteria already present in the colon.

Prebiotics can be found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes.

Omega-3 fats: These fats are found in oily fish and in the human brain. Studies show that omega- 3s can increase good bacteria in the gut and reduce the risk of brain disorders.

Polyphenol- rich foods: Cocoa, green tea, and olive oil all contain polyphenols, which are plant chemicals that are digested by your gut bacteria. Polyphenols increase healthy gut bacteria and may improve cognition.

By consuming a habitual and healthy whole food diet with foods from the above food groups this can help to promote the health and diversity of our gut bacteria and subsequently benefit brain health. For these reasons, it’s worth taking care of your gut!

PROGRAM UPDATE ALENA HIGGINS

The start of a path to transform my mind & body

L

ast Monday marked the start of my six- week body and mind fitness journey as part of OnePointHealth’s collaboration with elite strength and conditioning coach, Carl Jennings.

There were a number of factors that prompted me to put up my hand when the opportunity came knocking to join the group transformation program.

My main motivator was my weight. After giving birth to three children in two years, including a set of twins in late 2017, I have struggled to find the time and motivation to exercise and regain my pre-baby body.

As a busy working mum, I’m also hoping the program will help boost my energy levels and improve my overall fitness and health, which I have been neglecting for way too long.

But more importantly, I want to change my habits and mindset and make exercise and fitness a priority and not a passing fad or something that I dread.

The holistic approach that Carl takes is another reason I was attracted to the program. For Carl, it’s as much about a mental transformation as a physical one, and I look forward to learning how to “switch off” and practice spending more time living in the present, plus uncover the tools to strengthen my mental resilience.

Each week I’ll provide you with an update on how I’m fairing with the program, which includes training with Carl for a one-hour session three times per week. Although there’s bound to be pain ahead, I’m dedicated to making positive changes to my wellbeing and I’m confident I’ll see great results. Wish me luck!

Alena Higgins is taking part in the Body & Mind Fitness Program at OnePointHealth in Penrith

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Allan Hamlin www.allanhamlin.com.au Want a reading? Email Allan.Hamlin@westernweekender.com.au and include your full name, date of birth and your question. Please note your first name plus your question and reading may appear in print.

Alex McKenzie

I am open to your guidance about my future. Are you able to help?

Rebecca, Penrith Hello Rebecca!

A star is born Rebecca! Your life to this point has been a huge learning curve for what is about to come next for you.

Late August will see the stars align in a way that will mean the true purpose of your life will come into place over the next nine years.

Your previous belief patterns about yourself are to be discarded and a sense of feeling beautiful and appreciated for the years of toil for the family will come into being. Starting with your relationships, I feel a critical boundary was crossed in recent times that resulted in changes to the way you would like to be treated and respected. A new sense of security will be sought in 2020 and perhaps a new regime in self- care. Take the responsibility to make yourself number one and be the “star of the show”. It’s time for you now.

Thoughts about your father have occupied your mind recently, as you have reflected on changes to that relationship.

A dramatic release of emotions could occur this year and I feel that this is both cathartic and healing. This release will bring with it a renewed sense of selfinterest. Your work life is very stable and I feel very excited about future possibilities for you. An increased income (which will mean longer hours) are on the horizon but

it looks to be a very promising endeavour.

You have the ability to be self- employed and working in marketing and public areas suits you well.

No shortcuts please, and you will discover this brings the ability to move very efficiently through your goals, and remember, the bottom line is new goals.

You have some beautiful people around you and I sense that you are greatly loved and trusted. This trust is lifelong and reciprocated. Long- term prospects indicate simple pleasures, sun, fun and occasionally a nice drop of red wine.

I am hoping to connect with my grandparents who have passed.

Stacey, Kingswood Hello Mrs Sunshine!

You are a ray of light Stacey! I see a spirit child coming close to you and the sense of a new life preparing itself to come forward.

I would not rule out pregnancy for you as ‘new life’ is all around you.

The world is still a blank canvas for you though and thoughts on politics, current affairs and stimulating conversation would be required for you to feel enthused by your circle of contacts.

You could have a period of job change or swapping roles in employment. A sense of performing many roles for multiple companies seems to travel with you for quite a long part of your working life.

As I connect with the Spirit I hear a name sounding like “Brian” or “Ian”. I sense a man that would be Dad or Grandad to you and lived locally for much of his life.

I hear him mention Merrylands. He seems to like a beer and there would be an English heritage to this man and his family.

Some disappointment surrounds this man as he wishes he could have seen you have children before he passed. He is very proud of your success and tells me your life has changed rapidly in recent years.

A woman joins him and gives a name sounding like “Leanne”. I feel as though she is connected to your mother’s family line. She says she represents a great Aussie family? (I am unsure of why she says this but she tells me you will understand).

November 13-20 would be an important time to them. She tells me that your dance was beautiful and talks of a vintage dress or a hand-made outfit.

You have an award or honour of achievement on the wall in your home that the Spirit World wish to highlight. She laughs and tells me that “no more study is required, more children please!”.

I do get a strong sense of a very close family network with you and your grandparents would have lived their lives the same way by keeping family ties strong and maintaining those connections.

You are loved and treasured, keep shining Stacey.

money Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

Financial Advisors are set for a shake-up, and you’re the likely winner...

You may have noticed in the past that many people have marketed themselves as a financial planner or financial advisor, but, in reality, are using this as a method to sell a product.

This is usually a property but also includes everything from emu farms and pine trees to more traditional financial products.

ASIC has moved to stop this and has enshrined in legislation the titles “Financial Advisor” and “Financial Planner”. This is great news for consumers as you will now know the person providing advice has the expertise and experience to help you.

ASIC has increased education requirements, tightened licensing requirements and provided more defined processes to ensure that they are acting in the client’s best interest.

All existing advisors will have to pass an exam by January 1 2021 in order to have their experience in the industry acknowledged; otherwise they will be considered a new entrant. The education of all existing advisors will need to be assessed, and if necessary, upgraded to be in line with the new standards.

There are a variety of combinations to

be deemed to have sufficient education, but the education standards are high. For instance, someone with a related university degree, an Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning and more than five years of experience will be required to complete a bridging course of three subjects which will be assessed at Bachelor level.

New entrants will have to complete a financial planning degree or post graduate study in financial planning.

They will also be required to have 12 months practical experience before they are able to practice as a Financial Planner.

The ongoing education requirements have also increased. Now it is necessary to complete 40 hours a year of study, most of which needs to be accredited.

There are also minimums in a number of specific areas.

Many in the industry see this as onerous, but as a client you can be assured that anyone calling themselves a Financial Advisor has the necessary education and experience to provide you with advice.

As a Financial Advisor I’m happy with all these changes (despite having to do some additional study) as I think it will lift the overall standard of financial advice and, over time, raise the importance people will place on good financial advice.

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your

Guidance about the future and connecting with the past

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

your

travel

Spectacular trek with views you have to see to believe Challenge yourself with a 3 Sisters Adventure Trek and help empower the women of Nepal... w

N

EPAL

Jennifer Doherty Content thanks to WTF Media

Looking for a challenge in retirement?

L Then start training for a trekking advenTh T ture in Nepal and join one of the many ttur treks offered by the 3 Sisters Adventure ttrek Trekking Company. At the same time you Trek will be b helping to empower the girls and women of Nepal to a better life. wom Adventure Trekking was set 3 Sisters Sis up in 1998 by the Chhetri Sisters – Lucky, Dicky and Nicky who are now seeing the benefits of training and empowering a new generation of strong, confident women of Nepal who can contribute to the future of their country.

Soon after setting up the trekking company they set up the NGO, Empowering the Women of Nepal (EWN) to work in partnership to train and encourage more Nepalese women to become self-supportive, independent, decision-makers.

Once trekking operations in Nepal were only led by men, but the very capable, well- trained and experienced guides of 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking truly can make your trek a very special experience.

With our guide Sita Rai, we took on the challenge of the 10- day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek and soon learned many things from her, how to climb up steps and not be breathless (and in Nepal there are endless stone steps leading up and down the mountains), how to stay motivated when times get tough and how to succeed in your challenge to make it to base camp and feel that great sense of achievement when you do.

For first time trekkers like us who are reasonably fit and walk a lot we suddenly realised that trekking in the Himalayas is much different stamina- wise to a bushwalk in the Blue Mountains. It’s the challenge of walking day on day for 10 days that requires more than just physical strength.

The 10- day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery you could imagine. We trekked in the month of April, which is springtime in Nepal, and the spectacular rhododendron forests were in full bloom and the mountains were swathed in pink and red foliage.

Walking every day is different and exciting, sometimes through farmland, bamboo groves, lush rainforest and then alpine scenery once you reach Macchapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and finally Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) about two hours further up. Along the way you can enjoy the beautiful trees and foliage, and pretty wildflowers that bloom right up to Annapurna Base Camp.

And you can actually see beautiful birds you’ve never seen before in your life and hear beautiful birdsong every moment of your trek along the Modi Khola river gorge which leads up to Annapurna Sanctuary and Base Camp. We were delighted to see a brilliant turquoise and black Grandala on the track to Annapurna Base Camp as well as the little fork tail, spotted fork tail, barbets, bush chats as well as a woodpecker and a cuckoo in the birch forest. As we called back to the cuckoo it moved from tree to tree following us for more than 20 minutes. We were told by our guide Sita, who is an avid birdwatcher, that there are 883 species of birds in Nepal.

We were also very lucky to see the silver grey black faced langur monkeys who live in the rainforest jumping from tree to tree above our heads. Trekkers have encountered them sometimes on the track in the forest in a surprise encounter.

The villages along the way where you stay each night are basically a number of lodges and restaurants that cater well to the trekkers passing through. Most of these have a main dining room where you eat your meals and meet trekkers from all over the world. The diet is mostly good trekker’s food with lots of carbs like pasta, pizza, rice and curry as well as the Nepalese staple dal bhat which consists of curry, vegetables, lentil soup and rice.

3 Sisters Adventure Trekking provide

the backpacks and limit them to 10kg for their staff to carry, and then you just need to carry your daypack with water, protein bars and chocolates for some high energy snacks along the way.

Along the route there are amazing views of the Himalayas right from the third day at Ghorepani where you can trek up Poon Hill to see the sunrise. The balcony of our lodges at Tadapani and Chomrong provided sensational views of the Himalayas.

But of course the best views are stupendous when you reach the end of the river gorge and enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and Base Camp where you have 360-degree views of the Himalayas including Annapurna South (7,219m), the world’s 10th highest peak Annapurna 1 (8,091m), Annapurna 3 (7,555m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m) which is well known as Fish Tail mountain, and the Mardi Himal (5,553m). The massive Annapurna South Glacier carves its way to the edge of base camp which we were told might have to be moved sometime in the future.

Most treks usually include one night only at Annapurna Base Camp because of limited accommodation, there are four lodges and restaurants based there, but if nothing is available at ABC trekkers stay at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and do the 4.30am trek up to Annapurna Base Camp for the sunrise.

Now, to say the Annapurna Base Camp is as easy as ABC would be stretching it, it takes a lot of effort, sometimes up to eight hours a day walking up and down those stone steps but the reward when you reach the Annapurna Sanctuary with the incredible views of the Himalayas are truly spectacular and worth the effort.

For detailed information on all the treks being offered, visit www.3sistersadventure.com.

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Rev John Lavender

Nicole McMillan

www.gpa.church

Discovering the love of God and Jesus can transform our lives...

It’s not unusual for politicians to be criticised for their decisions, but perhaps we shouldn’t be surprised by this because as the old saying goes “you can’t please everyone”.

Yet, looking back in history, there have been some politicians who have stood out as men and women of great integrity, people who have made a significant, positive impact in our world.

One such politician was William Wilberforce.

Wilberforce was elected to the British Parliament in 1780. After a selfconfessed slow start to his political life, during the Easter of 1786, Wilberforce experienced the transforming grace of God; his heart was “swelling with the song of praise and thanksgiving to God”.

He was simply amazed by the grace of God as he came to understand the kindness and forgiveness God had shown him in Jesus.

God’s grace transformed Wilberforce’s life, turning around his political motivation with two great causes holding his attention.

The first was the abolition of slavery.

pets

your

Wilberforce wrote of slavery as something “So enormous, so dreadful... that I would never rest until I had effected its abolition”.

Sadly, because of vested interests, entrenched bigotry and his own poor health, it took many years to bring slavery to an end, as one historian wrote, “one of the turning events in world history”.

The second cause Wilberforce fought to turn around was the reform of the conditions of the poor and needy.

Wilberforce gave away one- quarter of his annual income to the poor. He fought on behalf of chimney sweeps, single mothers and orphans and he founded numerous organisations, all with the goal of the betterment of society.

Quite a remarkable man, a man transformed and renewed by the amazing grace of God shown to us in Jesus.

Practice Manager of Greencross Coreen Avenue

No matter what the time of year, it’s important to look out for signs of stings and bites...

Stings, bites, hives and allergic reactions are things we normally associate with spring time. But beware, the nasty wasps and bees that are still about all year round as Betty the French bulldog found out this week.

Betty is a six-month-old French bulldog who likes getting into mischief! Although her family did not see any insects around, she had the classic symptoms of a bee sting. Noticing her distress and swelling lips, Betty’s family brought her straight to Greencross Coreen Ave where she was immediately seen by Dr Laura.

Bee stings are common in dogs and as with people, dogs can react in a variety of ways to being stung. Most dogs will exhibit a mild response with localised pain and swelling but a few can have a life- threatening anaphylactic reaction which results in systemic signs such as respiratory difficulties, diffuse swelling (including the throat) and collapse.

Subsequent bee stings can become more severe.

When Betty arrived, her entire face was swollen. She was given an antihistamine

Member Services Manager The Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce is looking for a member services and sales superstar to support the development and growth of the chamber, for the benefit of members and our local community.

Reporting directly to the Executive Committee, the Member Services Manager will work closely with the committee and others to help achieve our vision for a strong, vibrant, growing organisation supporting the local business community through advocacy, events, education and promotional opportunities.

The special person we are looking for will have skills and experience including:

Passionate about Pets Extended consulting hours Phone for an appointment Exclusive Cat Clinic including boarding Best Behaviour Puppy Programs

• Proven sales and service experience, ideally in a similar environment

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• An understanding of the issues faced by small to medium businesses

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• Experience in marketing and events management

Applications must be received by 30th August

Betty before and after treatment

Coreen Avenue

(Part-time, approx. 25hpw)

To view the full advertisement and apply, go to http://bit.ly/2ZmbG3H

injection and a cortisone injection and soon began to settle down. After a short stay in hospital Betty made a quick recovery and was back to her normal playful self the following day.

If you think your pet may have been bitten or stung by an insect look out for signs of allergic reactions. Some signs include: facial and/or neck swelling, salivating, vomiting, pain at the site of the sting, itchiness at the site of the bite or over the whole body, pawing at the mouth and difficulty breathing. These clinical signs need to treated as a potential medical emergency and veterinary attention should be sought immediately.

If your pet is experiencing an emergency phone your nearest Greencross Vets at Coreen Ave, Winmalee, Faulconbridge or Marsden Park and immediately seek assistance.

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Adapting to social media’s changes Emma Gosper // Western Sydney Business Centre 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

I

Please come and join us on Saturday 31st August 2019 for a special Father’s Day Mass.

Kemps Creek Cemetery The Pavilion at 10.30am

Part of the local community

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9826 2273

nstagram has caused major controversy in the past few weeks by trialling a change to the platform by removing the visibility of the ‘likes’ count from posts across specific countries, including Australia, allowing users to only see the number of their own likes.

This has created plenty of mixed opinions as to the purpose of the trial, along with the impact it will leave on businesses engagement analytics and influencer marketing. Some users are discussing the mental health benefits, whilst some are discussing the business motives where Instagram can tap further into the influencer community, and the push for brands to spend more money on Instagram ads.

Instagram released a statement saying: “We want your friends to focus on the photos and videos you share, not how many likes they get. You can still see your own likes by tapping on the list of people who’ve liked it, but your friends will not be able to see how many likes your post has received.”

In a nutshell, this means Instagram

wants users to focus on CONTENT. Keep in mind our number one rule when it comes to social media, especially in business: Content is King.

Regardless of the individual opinions on the pros and cons of the trial, as businesses, we need to adapt to the ever-changing platform, whether we agree or disagree with the changes.

Keep in mind Instagram is regularly changing their algorithms, and as users we have no choice but to adapt to these changes. This is no different.

• Focus on your content: Now is a good time to trial different types of content and ensure your content is both inspiring and informative.

• Encourage alternative engagement such as comments and shares: ask questions, reply to comments and continue being social with your audience.

• Focus on utilising Stories, IGTV, Lives and pay extra attention to your post captions.

Remember, just because someone doesn’t physically react by double tapping a screen, your message is still being received by your consumer.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

AUTO

NATHAN TAYLOR @NateTaylor87

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t defined the funky ska sound of late ‘70s British music and the cool Art Deco footware favoured by gentlemen from Fred Astaire to Edward VIII, and from November this year, two- tone will become part of the standout colour palette for the stylish Toyota Corolla ZR hatch.

The two- tone colourways will be available on the top- of- the- range Corolla ZR variants as part of an update that also adds further safety and comfort features to the latest generation Corolla hatch range.

Toyota Vice President Sales and Marketing, Sean Hanley, said the new colour scheme will add further design kudos to a car that has already been widely praised.

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Local pair to wear green and gold p.61

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

Sport

DRAGON BOATS

Nepean Hockey Association took out the Over 35s Division 6 title at the Women’s Masters State Championships

Nepean takes out title NATHAN TAYLOR

T

he Nepean Hockey Association women’s masters team has proven experience can often trump all, taking out the Over 35s Division 6 title at the 2019 Hockey NSW Women’s

Masters State Championships in Bathurst last week.

More than 2000 women from across the state descended on the Bathurst Hockey Complex for the four- day tournament, which saw 110 teams – made up of the finest senior female players – compete for glory.

With several Nepean players attending the Women’s Masters State Championships for the first time, Nepean not only went through the round games undefeated, but they also conceded zero goals thanks to the brilliant goal keeping efforts of Wendy Hill as well as Emerson Osterberg’s brick wall-like defence.

Nepean took on Griffith in the Final, which went right down to the wire. Both sides met in the round games and played out a draw, and not much changed in the decider either with that match also ending with scores tied up.

Fortunately for Nepean and Griffith, both teams were crowned champions.

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Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

DRAGON BOATING

Green and gold pride on show at World Champs

T

wo members of local dragon boating club, Pendragons, will arrive in Thailand next week to represent Australia at the 14th International Dragon Boat Federation World Dragon Boat Championships.

Penrith local Glenn Ling and lower Blue Mountains resident Peter Fox will don the famous green and gold when they compete against the world’s best dragon boating nations in Pattaya-Rayong.

4000 athletes from 30 countries will take part in the prestigious event, which runs from August 20 to 25.

Speaking with the Weekender, 53- yearold Ling, who only took up dragon boating in 2016, said he was ecstatic to be representing Australia for the first time.

“While it was a bit of a surprise at first, I’m very happy to make the team. It’s taken a lot of hard work to get here but it’s not too far away now,” he said.

A former basketball coach, Ling took up the water sport to spend more time with his wife who was already a keen participant of dragon boat racing.

“I took a break from basketball coaching and then began running to get fit,” he said.

“My wife was doing dragon boat racing at the time, so I decided to get involved as well so we could do something together.

“Along with my wife and coaches at the club, my Aussie teammate Peter Fox took me under his wing when I arrived and showed me the ropes. I’ve loved it ever since.”

Fox, a former Penrith Emus rugby player, took up dragon boating in 2010 and has represented both his state and country on multiple occasions. Fox became the team captain for his category crew in Canada in 2015 and is a very respected coach and mentor at the Pendragons.

In Thailand, the pair will team up to compete in several events in the Open Men and Mixed categories. Ling said he and Fox have been training vigorously on both the Nepean River and Regatta Centre courses to prepare.

“We’re training upwards of six times per week,” he revealed.

“We also had a camp with the other members of the Australian team late last month, which was very helpful.”

Meanwhile, the Pendragons are looking for more participants to get involved, especially men. They will be holding a free Come and Try Day on Sunday, September 22 at Tench Reserve, Penrith.

Pendragons stars Glenn Ling and Peter Fox will represent Australia in Thailand

SPORTSMANS LUNCH WHEN: Friday 25th October, 2019 WHERE: Penrith Panthers, Mulgoa Rd Penrith TIME: 11:30am - 4pm COST: Tables of 8 for $1,400 or $195 each

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61

Friday, August 9, 2019 « the western weekender

SPORT

Lunch makes a difference Big sporting names to appear at second annual Gotcha4Life Sportsman’s Lunch NATHAN TAYLOR

T

his October local AFL club the Penrith Rams will be hosting their second annual Gotcha4Life Sportsman’s Lunch, raising important funds and awareness for men’s mental health.

To be held at Penrith Panthers and hosted by Triple M’s Gus Worland, the Sportsman’s Lunch will not only feature a delicious two- course meal but include legendary athletes from a range of sports including AFL, cricket and rugby league.

This year’s Sportsman’s Lunch will once again raise vital funds for the Gotcha4Life Foundation, which was established by Worland several years ago to reverse the tide of declining mental health and reduce suicide rates.

A not-for-profit foundation, Gotcha4Life funds sustainable educational workshops and training programs to champion the idea of mental fitness.

Western Sydney Giants Juniors AFL Chairman and event organiser, Sean Hogan, said last year’s inaugural Sportsman’s Lunch was a whopping success.

Ivan Cleary, Nathan Cleary, Mark Geyer and Gus Worland at last year’s event “In 2018, at our first Sportsman’s Lunch, we raised $90,986,” he said.

“This money went to the education arm of Gotcha4Life and all the money was used to run workshops for men in our local area and western Sydney.”

Run by Tomorrow Man, the workshops

aim at breaking down stereotypes of manhood, challenging young men in their thoughts and giving them the tools to talk to one another. Hogan said money raised at the Sportsman’s Lunch funded workshops in schools, football clubs, PCYC as well as places men gather.

“These workshops are amazing and I have personally seen the life changing results that these workshops bring to men of all ages,” he said.

“We would like to see this workshop in every school and footy club across the country.”

While Penrith Panthers legend Mark Geyer is the first guest speaker confirmed for the event, Hogan promises this year’s all-star line-up will be just as good, if not better, than 2018.

“Expect plenty of surprises and big names,” he teased.

The second Gotcha4Life Sportsman’s Lunch will be held at Penrith Panthers on Friday, October 25 at 11.30am.

Tickets cost $195 per person or $1400 for a table of eight.

Tickets include canapés on arrival, a two- course lunch, beer, wine and soft drink.

To book or for more information, visit www.trybooking.com/BDZUW. Tickets are limited.

To enquire about sponsorship packages for the event, call Sean Hogan on 0414 637 513.

Contact us for a free planning guide to give you and your family peace of mind.

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Event kicks goals Athletes from around the world converge on Penrith NATHAN TAYLOR

A

The Australian goalball team enters the stadium on Monday. Photo: Megan Dunn Ross Fowler, Councillor John Thain declared the 2019 Goalball Youth World Championships officially open.

“Penrith is proud to be hosting the event and to be the first city in Australasia to do so,” he said.

“I’d like to congratulate the organisers of this event; I can only imagine what a major exercise it must be to bring

Around the grounds BASKETBALL: Penrith have ended their rollercoaster season on a high, defeating the Central Coast Crusaders 77-72 in Round 20 of the Waratah Championship League (WCL) Men’s competition. Lachlan Charlton was huge for the Panthers, recording 34 points and four rebounds. Penrith finished the regular season in eighth position with nine wins and 13 losses to their name.

Meanwhile, Penrith’s WCL Women’s team failed to win back to back games to end the year, losing to the Crusaders 72-63 last weekend. Sara Matthews had a strong game for the Panthers, notching up 19 points and 13 rebounds. Like their male counterparts, Penrith ended the regular season in eighth spot with seven wins and 15 losses.

in town with a third straight victory over the Sydney Swans, taking out a thrilling derby by just two points at Giants Stadium last Saturday. The 83-81 victory keeps the Giants in fifth position with just three matches remaining. The Giants will travel to their home away from home in Canberra on Friday night to battle the Hawthorn Hawks.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have won three consecutive games, defeating the Balmain Tigers 70-37 in Round 16 of the AFL Sydney Platinum Division competition. Michael Denton and Jordan Ware both kicked two goals for the Rams. Penrith will hit the road this Saturday afternoon to face the South West Sydney Magpies at Rosedale Park.

Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes have continued their losing ways, hammered by the Manly Warringah Wolves 99-1 in Round 16 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 1 competition. The winless Ramettes will take on the Camden Cats this Saturday morning at Fairfax Reserve.

NETBALL: Giants Netball have now won back to back matches, defeating the Queensland Firebirds 63-57 in Round 11 of the Super Netball competition. The Giants remain in fourth position and will take on the Sunshine Coast Lighting this Saturday afternoon at Quay Centre in Sydney.

AFL: The GWS Giants have consolidated its status as the best team

together over 200 competitors from around the world.

“I’d also like to congratulate all the competitors and acknowledge the hard work they have put in to be here, representing their counties. You’re already winners in so many ways.”

Five thrilling days of competition will conclude tonight, August 9.

Do-or-die Finals clash for Panthers Story continued from » p. 64 “If we lose, we are out. The winner goes through to the Final Four and will play Central Coast for a spot in the Grand Final,” Sardi said.

“We beat Newcastle at home this season but lost to them by five points away. Finals is a new competition, so we’ll see what happens.”

It’ll be the second straight Finals campaign for Penrith’s Youth League Men, who finished runnersup in last year’s Grand Final. While they’ve had their challenges in 2019, Sardi believes this year’s crop of youngsters has what it takes.

“I think my team this year is a lot deeper. We’ve had injuries and hurdles we’ve had to jump but managed to come out of it,” he said.

“This is our second straight year in Finals, let’s hope we can get to the Grand Final and take out what we missed out on last year.”

X off the map The AFL is abandoning its controversial AFLX tournament from its pre- season schedule.

After running for two years, the league announced on Monday that it would not feature in 2020.

The AFL will continue to ramp up its focus on the AFLW, which has grown in popularity since its launch.

Don’t know what to get your Father for Father’s Day?

NETBALL: The Panthers Opens team have lost seven straight games, belted by the UTS Sparks 63-40 in Round 9 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition. Meanwhile, the Panthers Under 23s team have lost back to back games, defeated by the Sparks 55-42.

Both teams will take on the Manly Warringah Sapphires in Round 10.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 20 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys overcame the Hills District Bulls 34-26, while Penrith Brothers had the bye. In the Sydney Shield competition, St Marys smashed the Bulls 40-10, while Penrith Brothers drew with the Belrose Eagles 26-26.

ATG submissions: 4722 2998.

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thletes from eight nations gathered at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre on Monday morning for the Opening Ceremony of the 2019 International Blind Sports Association Goalball Youth World Championships.

Hugely popular in schools across the state, goalball is an exciting team sport played competitively by athletes with vision impairment.

Penrith beat out cities from all over the world, including Sao Paulo, Brazil, to host the prestigious five-day event.

Along with Team Australia, Blind Sports Australia Chair, Sam Theodore, welcomed athletes from Poland, Brazil, Germany, Thailand, Great Britain, Korea and Sweden to the foot of the Mountains.

“Blind Sports Australia is very proud to be the hosting federation for this event and we are pleased to have representatives from countries across the world, who have made the journey to Australia to take part in this landmark event for Blind Sports in our country,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Penrith Mayor

the western weekender » Friday, August 9, 2019

GOALBALL

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Sport Penrith fire warning shot Friday, August 9, 2019

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enrith will enter tomorrow night’s Youth Basketball League Elimination Final full of confidence after they defeated the competition’s top team by 31 points in the final game of the regular season.

The Panthers thrashed minor premiers Central Coast 108-77 in Terrigal last weekend, to end the home- and- away season in fourth place after 20 rounds.

While the end result was well and truly in Penrith’s favour, the game didn’t get off to the best of starts for the visitors. Down 11-1 after five minutes, Penrith coach Steve Sardi began to panic before his side finally clicked into gear to run away with victory.

“We didn’t start the game well, we couldn’t buy a bucket in the opening five minutes.

I called a timeout and reiterated the game plan,” he told the Weekender.

“Shortly after things started to come together and, before we knew it, we were leading the game by 45 points.

“If someone said to me we were going to beat the top team right before the playoffs by 31 points, I would have said ‘in your dreams’.”

Penrith’s monster win over Central Coast

The Penrith Panthers Division 1 Youth League Men’s team are Finals-bound earned them a home final against Newcastle, which will be played at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre on Saturday at 7.30pm.

A victory against the Hunters will set up

a juicy rematch the following week against Central Coast for a place in the Grand Final.

Story continues on » p. 63

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