Western Weekender February 27 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

PANPA 2014 NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR RUNNER-UP

weekender the western FRI 27 FEB 2015 • Issue 1192

PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Printed on 100% recycled paper

YEAR OF THE

Special Penrith Panthers 2015 NRL season preview edition

PANTHER ADVERTISEMENT Lic No. 102962C

House + Land Packages from

$518,000

CALL US TODAY

1300 350 793

ph: 4721 1500 f: 4721 1577 www.rositanokitchens.com.au

WW16199

w w w. z a c h o m e s . c o m . a u WW15744

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

SPECIAL FEATURE

Weight of expectation now very much on Panthers @troydodds

TROY DODDS

here is a great deal of difference between hope and expectation. For many years, Penrith Panthers fans have had a lot of hope and very little expectation. Seasons came and went with moderate or below average results, which meant that pre-seasons were filled with a lot of “what ifs” but very little substance. Deep down, for most of the last 10 or so pre-seasons, Penrith fans knew that come September, their team would most likely be on holidays somewhere and not playing finals football. 2015 is different. After a hugely successful 2014 campaign and a continuing resurgence under new management, Penrith fans have a lot of expectation about what the season ahead will bring. They expect, rightly so, to be playing finals football. Some expect an appearance on Grand Final day and others have even suggested the trophy could be coming back to Penrith Leagues Club in early October.

While there’s a lot of football to be played between now and then, none of those expectations are unrealistic. There is no doubt that Ivan Cleary and the management team at Panthers have gotten so many things right with their recruitment over the last two seasons, and 2015 is a year when a lot of it will come together. Sometimes the definition of a good team is when their players become household names in the rugby league community, and Penrith’s squad very much offers that in 2015. At fullback, the dynamic Matt Moylan has emerged as one of the most talked about players in the game, and given his cool and calm demeanour, he’s unlikely to suffer from any delusions of grandeur this season. With Jarryd Hayne out of the picture and Billy Slater a year older, Moylan is on the verge of becoming the game’s most revered fullback. On Moylan’s flanks are two of the most exciting wingers in rugby league – the powerhouse Josh Mansour and the freakishly talented Dallin Watene-Zelezniak. If injury

Jamie Soward in action for Penrith last season. Photo: Melinda Jane

ABL && BATHROOM CENTRE ABLTILE TILE BATHROOM CENTRE

Proud P d sponsors off the h Penrith Panthers

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR BATHROOM, KITCHEN AND TILING NEEDS LIM D

ITE K OC ST

1200 MODENA SHOWER BATH

1600 SANIFORM PLUS STEEL ENAMEL BATH

1500 TALIANO FREESTANDING BATH

459

739

15% off

829

CAMEO CLOSE COUPLED AR 30 YE

Made20% in Germany off

SAVE $610

JIKA LAVA WALL FACED

449

URBANE WALL FACED SUITE

599

15% off

659

20% 20% off off

Save $140 F OF NT

CE L OW

B RE

IME LIFET

RUSH BASIN MIXER

VIRIDIAN BASIN MIXER

137

AR 15 YE

239

CALIBRE BASIN MIXER MATTE BLACK AR 15 YE

20% off

495

AR 15 YE

NEW RELEASE

339

AR 15 YE

NEW RELEASE

599 15% off

AR 15 YE

599 25% off

18 FORTHORN PLACE, ST MARYS PH: 9623 0499 WWW.ABLTILECENTRE.COM.AU

875 20% off

PETE EVANS DOUBLE BOWL SINK

919

R 3 YEA

55+ FOOD DISPOSAL UNIT IME LIFET

20% off

OPENING HOURS MON TO FRI 7:30 - 5PM SAT 8:30AM - 4PM / SUN 9AM - 3PM

419

SAVE $80

WW15330

SEE INSTORE OR ONLINE FOR MORE GREAT DEALS

NEW RELEASE S EE RIE FR SO ES

NEW RELEASE

R 5 YEA

MONET UNDERMOUNT DOUBLE BOWL

C AC

425

RUSH SINK MIXER MATTE BLACK

1200 INDIANA WALL HUNG VANITY

899

SH DI S ER NU IN BO DRA

599

E BL E LA OM AI HR AV R C SO O AL ACK BL VIXEN RETRACTABLE SINK MIXER

NEO MODULE VENT & LITE

1200 SUMMER TWIN WALL HUNG

KIRI CHROME EXPOSURE SHOWER

SPECIAL FEATURE

Bryce Cartwright is on the verge of a breakout season in the NRL. Photo: Melinda Jane embarrassment of riches although front row stocks do look a little thin, particularly if the club is hit by any long-term injuries. Penrith’s X-Factor this year will come from the bench. When you consider that Cleary could bring on new recruit Apisai Koroisau to make an impact for 20 or 30 minutes, or give Lewis Brown a roving commission for periods of the game, you begin to realise that

Penrith’s strength comes from their 17-man squad, not just the 13 in the starting side. Predictions? I have a few. This will be the breakout season for Bryce Cartwright – by year’s end, he’ll be considered one of the biggest young stars in the game. It’ll be a similar story for Matt Moylan, who I believe will be in Dally M medal contention and in with a shot of playing representative football.

The Panthers will make the finals. What happens when they get there is another story. There’s 15 other clubs working hard in the pre-season, some with just hope but many with legitimate expectations. A lot happens between March and October that you cannot predict or presume in February. There is every indication that 2015 is going to be a highly successful season.

HIGH STREET MEDICAL IMAGING PENRITH Same Day Service & Reporting Available

• Experienced • Caring • Friendly Staff • Well Trained Qualified Technicians alified MRI Fellowship p Doctors) Doctors) & Doctors (North American Qualifi

Penrith’s LOWEST DOSE 640 SLICE CT Scanner LOW DOSE Digital al X-Rays, Ultrasounds, Bone Density, OPG, Mammograms rams

BULK * BILLING

*For Medicare eligible examination

362-368 High Street, Penrith T 4789 0009 F 4789 0010

Business Hours - Weekdays 8am-7pm Saturday 8am-12pm (Please Enquire) All Referrals Welcome Including Workers Compensation

WW16236

Penrith’s FIRST 3T WIDE BORE Digital MRI

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

hits, veteran David Simmons and rising stars Kieran Moss and George Jennings are waiting for their chance. Ivan Cleary has some headaches over the centre positions – Dean Whare will be there, but whether Jamal Idris remains in the centres or switches to the back row will be a big question mark. Most expect that young centre Waqa Blake will be given a chance to prove himself at some point in the early part of the season. Whatever happens, Cleary has options. Keeping both halves on the field this year will be critical. Jamie Soward and Peter Wallace are a formidable partnership, and while Soward did well leading the side around on his own for the back half of last season, the leadership of Wallace was sorely missed. Soward will only thrive with a little of the playmaking pressure taken off him. The forwards has been the biggest discussion point for Penrith fans over the off-season. Will Sika Manu make a move into the front row? Will Brent Kite play largely from the bench in what is expected to be his final season in the NRL? How do you operate the mix of talent that exists within Bryce Cartwright, Tyrone Peachey, Elijah Taylor and Adam Docker? One thing for certain is that you’ll most likely see plenty of rotation during the season as Cleary tries to get the balance right. It’s an

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

SPECIAL FEATURE

One of Penrith’s 12 allocated home matches has already been confirmed as moving to Bathurst (Round 2 v Titans). It is most likely there will be 10 match days at Penrith Stadium. Does Penrith have a new jersey this season? No, the Panthers are using the same designs as 2014. The black jersey remains the club’s main home jersey, pink remains the away jersey and white remains the alternate jersey.

George Jennings is likely to make his NRL debut this season

Your 2015 season questions answered Who has Penrith signed this year? The Panthers have been quiet in the player market during the offseason, preferring to further invest in last year’s successful squad. The biggest signing for the season is Apisai Koroisau from South Sydney. The 23-year-old played for the Rabbitohs in last year’s Grand Final and has played representative football for Fiji. He’ll certainly keep the pressure on hooker James Segeyaro throughout the season.

Penrith has also added lower level players Adrian Davis, Rodney Coates and Tupou Sopoaga to the squad. Sopoaga will probably see some first grade time – he’s a talented second rower from the Sharks. Who has Penrith lost? You won’t see Tim Grant (Souths), Kevin Kingston (retired), Kierran Moseley (Titans), Kevin Naiqama (Tigers), Wes Naiqama (London),

Matt Robinson (Titans) or Ryan Simpkins (Titans) in a Panthers jumper this season. How many games are there at Penrith Stadium? At this stage there’s 11 matches scheduled for Penrith Stadium, but one of those matches is expected to move, perhaps to a regional location. The club has been negotiating with the city of Christchurch about moving a match there.

What youngsters will debut for Penrith this year? You can expect to see both Jennings brothers (George and Robert) make their debut at some stage. Both have been given time to prove their worth during the club’s pre-season trials. Centre Waqa Blake is also likely to debut in the first half of the season, while forward Reagan Campbell-Gillard is also likely to play his first NRL game. An injury to the outside backs or a representative call-up for Matt Moylan or Josh Mansour could also pave the way for Kieran Moss to make his debut. How has Penrith played in the pre-season? A second-strength side thrashed the Wyong Roos, but the Panthers went down 18-4 to the Warriors in Rotorua and lost 30-22 to the Eels at Penrith Stadium last weekend.

Welcome to the season

Justin Pascoe

I PLAY HERE

CEO, Penrith District Rugby League

Something special is coming eason 2015 represents another milestone in the rich and wonderful football tapestry that is the Panthers. On the back of what has been deemed by many as a defining season for our club, we are very proud that the next special team is already “in the building”. From a football perspective we are very excited about the exceptionally gifted young players like Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Isaah Yeo, Bryce Cartwright, Reagan Campbell-Gillard, George Jennings, Robert Jennings Kieran Moss, Chris Smith and Waqa Blake who all have come through our junior representative teams and our Championship winning u/20 National Youth Competition side. This array of talented youngsters is complemented by established NRL class players like Matt Moylan, Jamie Soward, Peter Wallace, Brent Kite, Josh Mansour, James Segeyaro, Jamal Idris, Adam Docker, Nigel Plum, Tyrone Peachey, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Will Smith and David Simmons and we can’t forget the outstanding Kiwi contingent of Elijah Taylor, Dean Whare, Sam McKendry, Sika Manu, Lewis Brown and Isaac

GO PANTHERS! PENRITH CITY COUNCIL WISHES PANTHERS ALL THE VERY BEST FOR THE 2015 201ù NRL TELSTRA PREMIERSHIP SEASON. WW16158

John. And I would like to make a special welcome to our newest Panthers Apisai Koroisau and Tupou Sopoaga. We certainly believe that with this complimentary playing list supported, mentored and coached by our well credentialed coaching staff headed by 2014 NRL Coach of the Year Ivan Cleary that we will deliver outstanding results. Off the field the organisation continues to drive towards our strategic objectives ensuring that we continue the transformation of the Panthers, where we have seen membership grow faster than any other NRL club in 2014, merchandise offerings and sales reach new heights, the re-signing of major global partners such as Parmalat (OAK), Hertz, Host Plus, Tooheys and Asics and new partnerships with global lenders The Pepper Group and new membership partner Oliver Brown. I would like to personally thank all the members that have shown the dedication and commitment to the Panthers and would like to extend an open invitation to all those fans that are not members to join the growing army of Panther members, we are on the crest of something very special.

Cartwright ready for a season to remember @natetaylor87

NATHAN TAYLOR

itting in the sheds before his return to football a fortnight ago, Bryce Cartwright was nervous. He was so anxious about coming back from serious ankle surgery that he got dressed an hour before the rest of his teammates. “I was very nervous sitting in the sheds… I think I was ready an hour before the game,” Cartwright told the Weekender. “But when I got out there the sun was shining, the crowd was loud, the adrenaline was high and it certainly got me through the game. It would’ve been tougher coming back with no crowd or atmosphere.” The 20-year-old’s return, during Penrith’s trial in New Zealand, was seven months in the making after severely injuring his ankle last August. Cartwright said he was in a lot of pain following multiple surgeries but came out on the other side of it feeling hungrier than ever to rip into his second season in the top grade. “My time was cut short last year, so I feel like I’m entering my debut season again,” the backrower said.

“My first goal is to be part of the team, do a job and then cement a starting spot. I also want to stay fit and healthy the whole year.” And if Penrith are going to give the competition a real shake this season, they’ll need Cartwright fit and at his best every week. As the nephew of Panthers legend John Cartwright, the St Marys junior has long been touted as a future superstar of the game. With so much expectation bestowed upon his young shoulders, the pressure can also be just as heavy. “I kind of try and push the pressure and expectations aside, which is a little bit easier to do when you live out west and you are away from things,” Cartwright said. “I don’t read into all that stuff, I stay in a bubble and just listen to the coaching staff and my teammates.” This week, Cartwright was named as an ambassador for St Marys Rugby League Club, an organisation that has a long and proud history with the Cartwright name. Club President Warren Smith said he couldn’t think of a more fitting person to represent the club.

Bryce Cartwright is in for a big season. Photo: Melinda Jane

‘

Plan ahead with someone you can trust. Fiona Boulous Funeral Director

Minchinbury 9625 8500 Pinegrove Memorial Park guardianfunerals.com.au

Proudly Australian | 24 Hours All Areas | Prearranged Funerals

9625 8066 GFWWN0313PG WW15880

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

SPECIAL FEATURE

Friday 27 February 2015 ÂŤ the western weekender

2015 NRL DRAW ROUND 1 5-9 MARCH

ROUND 5 3-6 APRIL

ROUND 9 8-11 MAY

ROUND 12 29 MAY - 1 JUNE

Broncos vs. Rabbitohs

Bulldogs vs. Rabbitohs

Broncos vs. Panthers

Panthers vs. Eels

Eels vs. Sea Eagles

Titans vs. Broncos

Roosters vs. Tigers

Titans vs. Rabbitohs

Knights vs. Warriors

Sea Eagles vs. Raiders

Raiders vs. Titans

Raiders vs. Broncos

Titans vs. Tigers

Knights vs. Dragons

Sharks vs. Warriors

Cowboys vs. Sea Eagles

Cowboys vs. Roosters

Roosters vs. Sharks

Cowboys vs. Bulldogs

Warriors vs. Knights

Panthers vs. Bulldogs

Eels vs. Tigers

Sea Eagles vs. Knights

Dragons vs. Sharks

Sharks vs. Raiders

Storm vs. Warriors

Eels vs. Storm

Roosters vs. Storm

Dragons vs. Storm

Panthers vs. Cowboys

Rabbitohs vs. Dragons

Byes: Bulldogs, Tigers

ROUND 2 13-16 MARCH

ROUND 6 10-13 APRIL

ROUND 10 15-18 MAY

ROUND 13 5-8 JUNE

Sharks vs. Broncos

Sharks vs. Knights

Bulldogs vs. Roosters

Broncos vs. Sea Eagles

Bulldogs vs. Eels

Broncos vs. Roosters

Cowboys vs. Broncos

Tigers vs. Titans

Panthers vs. Titans

Eels vs. Titans

Eels vs. Warriors

Knights vs. Raiders

Sea Eagles vs. Storm

Warriors vs. Tigers

Titans vs. Sharks

Rabbitohs vs. Warriors

Cowboys vs. Knights

Panthers vs. Sea Eagles

Storm vs. Rabbitohs

Panthers vs. Storm

Rabbitohs vs. Roosters

Raiders vs. Storm

Dragons vs. Raiders

Sharks vs. Roosters

Raiders vs. Warriors

Dragons vs. Bulldogs

Knights vs. Tigers

Bulldogs vs. Dragons

Tigers vs. Dragons

Rabbitohs vs. Cowboys

Sea Eagles vs. Panthers

Eels vs. Cowboys

ROUND 3 20-23 MARCH

ROUND 7 17-20 APRIL

ROUND 11 22-25 MAY

ROUND 14 12-15 JUNE

Sea Eagles vs. Bulldogs

Dragons vs. Broncos

Rabbitohs vs. Eels

Tigers vs. Rabbitohs

Broncos vs. Cowboys

Bulldogs vs. Sea Eagles

Tigers vs. Cowboys

Warriors vs. Roosters

Warriors vs. Eels

Titans vs. Panthers

Raiders vs. Bulldogs

Titans vs. Bulldogs

Raiders vs. Dragons

Cowboys vs. Warriors

Knights vs. Broncos

Storm vs. Eels

Storm vs. Sharks

Storm vs. Roosters

Rabbitohs vs. Tigers

Tigers vs. Raiders

Byes: Dragons, Panthers, Roosters, Sea Eagles, Sharks, Storm, Titans, Warriors

Byes: Broncos, Cowboys, Dragons, Knights, Panthers, Raiders, Sea Eagles, Sharks

Titans vs. Knights

Knights vs. Eels

Roosters vs. Panthers

Sharks vs. Rabbitohs

ROUND 4 27-30 MARCH

ROUND 8 24-26 APRIL

STATE OF ORIGIN I 27 MAY

STATE OF ORIGIN II 17 JUNE

Eels vs. Rabbitohs

Bulldogs vs. Tigers

New South Wales v Queensland ANZ STADIUM

Queensland v New South Wales MCG

Tigers vs. Bulldogs

Warriors vs. Titans

Knights vs. Panthers

Knights vs. Cowboys

Sharks vs. Titans

Roosters vs. Dragons

Dragons vs. Sea Eagles

Storm vs. Sea Eagles

Warriors vs. Broncos

Broncos vs. Eels

Roosters vs. Raiders

Panthers vs. Sharks

Cowboys vs. Storm

Rabbitohs vs. Raiders

ROUND 18 10-13 JULY

ROUND 22 7-10 AUGUST

ROUND 26 3-6 SEPTEMBER

Sea Eagles vs. Tigers

Raiders vs. Knights

Knights vs. Roosters

Cowboys vs. Titans

Raiders vs. Cowboys

Panthers vs. Roosters

Warriors vs. Dragons

Bulldogs vs. Warriors

Titans vs. Warriors

Bulldogs vs. Broncos

Sharks vs. Cowboys

Eels vs. Raiders

Bulldogs vs. Panthers

Warriors vs. Storm

Broncos vs. Bulldogs

Sharks vs. Sea Eagles

Knights vs. Sharks

Sharks vs. Dragons

Storm vs. Titans

Roosters vs. Rabbitohs

Storm vs. Broncos

Titans vs. Sea Eagles

Sea Eagles vs. Rabbitohs

Dragons vs. Tigers

Raiders vs. Tigers

Panthers vs. Knights

Eels vs. Panthers

Broncos vs. Storm

QUALIFYING SEMI-FINALS 11-13 SEPTEMBER

Dragons vs. Roosters Byes: Eels, Rabbitohs

Byes: Cowboys, Eels, Rabbitohs, Tigers

ROUND 16 26-29 JUNE

ROUND 19 17-20 JULY

ROUND 23 13-17 AUGUST

Rabbitohs vs. Sea Eagles

Eels vs. Bulldogs

Cowboys vs. Rabbitohs

Broncos vs. Knights

Storm vs. Panthers

Roosters vs. Eels

Warriors vs. Raiders

Raiders vs. Sharks

Bulldogs vs. Titans

Cowboys vs. Sharks

Knights vs. Titans

Tigers vs. Knights

Eels vs. Dragons

Dragons vs. Rabbitohs

Raiders vs. Sea Eagles

Roosters vs. Titans

Roosters vs. Warriors

Sharks vs. Storm

Tigers vs. Panthers

Broncos vs. Tigers

Panthers vs. Warriors

Bulldogs vs. Storm

Sea Eagles vs. Cowboys

Broncos vs. Dragons

ROUND 17 3-6 JULY

ROUND 20 24-27 JULY

ROUND 24 20-24 AUGUST

Panthers vs. Rabbitohs

Tigers vs. Roosters

Storm vs. Knights

Dragons vs. Cowboys

Broncos vs. Titans

Roosters vs. Broncos

Sea Eagles vs. Sharks

Warriors vs. Sea Eagles

Rabbitohs vs. Bulldogs

Tigers vs. Eels

Rabbitohs vs. Knights

Sea Eagles vs. Eels

Byes: Broncos, Bulldogs, Knights, Raiders, Roosters, Storm, Titans, Warriors

Storm vs. Dragons

Titans vs. Raiders

Panthers vs. Raiders

Warriors vs. Cowboys

Bulldogs vs. Sharks

Sharks vs. Tigers

Cowboys vs. Eels

Dragons vs. Panthers

ROUND 21 31 JULY - 3 AUGUST

ROUND 25 27-31 AUGUST

Cowboys vs. Raiders

Sea Eagles vs. Roosters

Titans vs. Eels

Titans vs. Dragons

Tigers vs. Storm

Raiders vs. Panthers

Roosters vs. Bulldogs

Storm vs. Cowboys

Rabbitohs vs. Panthers

Rabbitohs vs. Broncos

Sea Eagles vs. Broncos

Knights vs. Bulldogs

Warriors vs. Sharks

Tigers vs. Warriors

Dragons vs. Knights

Eels vs. Sharks

STATE OF ORIGIN III 8 JULY Queensland v New South Wales SUNCORP STADIUM

SEMI-FINALS 18-19 SEPTEMBER

PRELIMINARY FINALS 25-26 SEPTEMBER

GRAND FINAL 4 OCTOBER

the western weekender Âť Friday 27 February 2015

ROUND 15 19-22 JUNE

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

SPECIAL FEATURE

I used to struggle ... but now school work’s FUN!

Panthers spread positive message in local schools

NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

n a week where rugby league has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, the Penrith Panthers have shown there are still plenty of good guys left in the game. The Panthers along with players from the Parramatta Eels visited 34,500 students from 117 western Sydney schools on Monday as part of the NRL’s Community Carnival. Panthers stars including Jamie Soward, Matt Moylan, Dallin WateneZelezniak, Waqa Blake and Robert Jennings visited local schools including St Clair High and Erskine Park High to deliver this year’s community message of ‘Wellbeing’, which focuses on nutrition, healthy eating, regular exercise and mental health. “This is a particularly special Community Carnival as we celebrate 15 years of the program,” Head of NRL Community, Adam Check said. “Community Carnival has made considerable impact over the years on important issues such as bullying and social inclusion. The program has proven that when players talk, students listen. “The message players will take into schools this year is a simple but

Most tuition centres are franchises. The Tuition Place is independent and local. This gives you three important advantages: 1. Teaching methods and resources are tailored for the children of the Penrith area, not dictated by a franchisor from far away. 2. If you have special requirements, things can be adapted for you quickly. 3. The tuition is more aﬀordable, because a big chunk of what you pay doesn’t go straight to a franchisor.

Specialist Maths or English tuition for all ages.

Call Ted now on 4722 3039 or 0416 018 716 to arrange a no-obligation FREE assessment and lesson Suite 18, The Broadwalk, 458 High St, Penrith ted@thetuitionplace.com.au www.thetuitionplace.com.au WW15931

Jamie Soward with St Clair students important one – taking care of your diet, physical fitness and mental health is vital to your overall wellbeing.” Players were armed with teaching resources endorsed by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA), which demonstrated how important nutrition, physical activity and mental health is to overall wellbeing.

AUSTRALIA’S BEST VALUE SOLID CEDAR DOORS & WINDOWS Simply

Doors & Windows

Don’t take our for it, read our CUSTOMER REVIEW on the Website, and check out our 100% eBay FEEDBACK SCORE TTECH ROLL BI FOLD FLY SCREENS 3m Bi Fold French Doors, 6mm Glass

NOW AVAILABLE

(Limited Stock) Both Colonial and Clear Glass styles. Incredible value at $1699 either style!

HUGE SALE ON SLIDING DOORS, WITH FLY SCREENS: 2410x2100h

Sale price only $1299 1800x2100h only

Very Limited Time $999 2100x2100h, 3 Panel Sliding Door

Only $1199

Was $4294

Sale price only $1699

BUY ANY BI FOLD DOOR & GET A Bi Fold French Windows 2400x1200h 1930X1200 BI FOLD WINDOW Was $2895 Sale price only $1180 FOR ONLY $599! (Limited Time Only)

UNBELIEVABLE PRICES! 1930x1200 Bi Fold Window 730x2100h Awning Windows Colonial French Doors 1.5m French Doors 1800x1000h Bi Fold Window 2100x2100 Sliding Door

$980 $599 $999 $949 $940 $1199

2700x2100 Bi Fold Doors 2170x2100 French Doors 900x2100 Single French Doors 3m Stacker Bi Folds 2410x2100h3 Panel Bi Fold Doors

$1599 $1099 $549 from $2495 $1399

MANY MORE SIZES TO CHOOSE FROM PLUS LARGE RANGE OF AWNING WINDOWS, COLONIAL & CLEAR GLASS

ALL OUR DOORS & WINDOWS ARE COMPLETE, STAINED & OILED, HUNG IN FRAME, WITH ALL STAINLESS STEEL HARDWARE AND FLY SCREENS INCLUDED (where applicable). READY TO FIT FROM THE BOX! MANY STYLES & SIZES AVAILABLE.

Unit 4, 2-6 Rob Place VINEYARD Up the Windsor Road, Look for the big blue man! www.furituredownunder.com.au or google ‘eBay Furniture Down Under’

02 4577 9727 WW16129

Former Panthers captain Kevin Kingston will be writing for Extra Time this year

We’ll lead the way again: Extra Time is back for 2015 next weekend enrith’s number one coverage of rugby league returns next week with the first edition of Extra Time for the season to be published. Extra Time will feature at least 16 pages of Panthers and NRL content each week, and this year will be presented as a pull-out publication right in the middle of the Weekender. We’ll have all the footy news covered including match previews, team line-ups, great photos and of course, the return of The Masked Panther with Panther Rumblings. Plus, we’re happy to welcome aboard new columnists in Kevin Kingston and Steve Hart. “Rugby league and Penrith go hand in

hand – the Panthers are an integral part of this community and have been an integral part of The Western Weekender for almost 25 years,” said Extra Time and Western Weekender Editor, Troy Dodds. “We are excited about what 2015 has in store for the Panthers, and we’ll be there every step of the way to cover it – win, lose or draw.” Extra Time will also be introducing a Fan of the Week section, dedicated to those who follow the Panthers so passionately. Don’t miss the launch of Extra Time next week. It’ll be in the middle of your Western Weekender every week this year. Go the Panthers!

Penrith, Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury BEC’s see over 1,200 businesses each year, of all structures and sizes, helping our clients achieve results like no other. From diagnostics to SEO, assistance with staff to social media, we can help your business grow. If you haven't engaged with our BEC for our award winning business advice then now is a good time.

Call us to make a fully subsidised appointment

with one of our experienced and qualified business advisors at our offices in Penrith, Blue Mountains or Hawkesbury.

02 4721 5011

www.penrithsmallbiz.com.au WW16048

We transport anything up to 50 tonnes

• General Trade • Machinery • Accident • Prestige Vehicles • Heavy Vehicle up to 12 Ton • Local • Containers

Penrith

4736 4400

• Interstate/Country • Fully Insured • Green Card

St Marys (Division)

• Accredited Drivers • Family Owned & Operated • Ticketed Operations

9623 2020

PENRITH TILT TRAY SPECIALISTS S T M A RY S - P E N R I T H - B L U E M O U N TA I N S

www.towingpenrith.com.au

WW15867

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Want your business to achieve and grow as quick as the Panthers?

SPECIAL FEATURE

Legend calls for fans to be loud and proud this season NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

Don’t just sit there, Penrith, be loud and proud of your team” – those are the fighting words of Panthers legend John Farragher who wants local supporters to get up and make some noise this season. The former Penrith prop, who suffered a career-ending neck injury back in 1978, believes Panthers supporters are too quiet at home games and should enjoy themselves more. “This is my 37th year as a supporter and I think we have the most sedate fans in the competition,” Farragher admitted. “I’m not taking the mickey out of our supporters because we have some wonderful fans, but we need a lot more.” Farragher, who is still a prominent member of the Panthers community, said strong crowd support can often work in a side’s favour. “This footy side goes out there every week representing our community but the sad part for me is, you go to a game, the crowd cheer loud initially then they go

“

quiet for a while… people don’t understand how powerful the noise can be,” he said. “As a player out on the field you can actually lift in attack and defence just off the vibe of the crowd. “I watch a lot of football on TV and you can hear the crowd booing for a penalty then, all of a sudden, there are two or three penalties. It can have a big impact on a game.” Farragher pointed out how fans of the Western Sydney Wanderers and English Premier League soccer make him envious due to their passion and emotion at games. Farragher suggests Panthers fans should also come up with their own chants to sing along to during home matches. “The Wanderers fans get involved and enjoy the game, but Panthers fans sit in their seats and stay silent too much,” he said. “I really ask the fans to please get into the game more and you’ll enjoy it more.” After last year’s success, the Panthers are tipped by many to have another excellent season and perhaps go one better than their preliminary final appearance last

NEVER CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS AGAIN

INSTALL NOW AND SAVE! )\ZOÄYL YH[LK N\[[LY guard! Stop Snakes, Rats & Possums! Protect against Jacarandas and Pine Needles! )PYK WYVVÄUN

UP TO

%FF

only uoting 5 e of q At tim ires 16.03.1 exp

FREE

EAN GUTTERINSTCL ALLATION WITH EVERY

Stop leaves from blocking your gutters!

John Farragher wants Panthers fans to be more vocal this season season. Farragher said if there was any year to support the Panthers loudly and proudly, this was most definitely it. “We’re on the cusp of something special but if you’re going to a game

and not getting into it then you’re better off sitting at home watching a movie,” he declared. “At the end of the day, we’ve been fairly sedate for the past 49 years but we can change all that now.”

ADVERTORIAL

Are your gutters ready for the storm season? During storm season it is important that your gutters and valleys are clean and unblocked. Cleaning gutters is dangerous so Leafshield VɈLYZ H MYLL N\[[LY JSLHU ^P[O L]LY` N\[[LY N\HYK PUZ[HSSH[PVU Insurance repairers recommend the installation of valley and gutter N\HYK [V WYL]LU[ KHTHNL [V JLPSPUNZ K\L [V V]LYÅV^PUN N\[[LYZ Leaf Shield gives gutters lasting protection and prevents damage to `V\Y OVTL 6\Y :`Z[LT HSSV^Z SLH]LZ [V ZSPKL VɈ [OL YVVM PUZ[LHK VM blocking up your valleys and gutters with leaves and even hail. Leaf Shield can keep everything from a possum to the tiniest jacaranda leaf out of your gutters, choose from UV treated polyethylene, aluminium and stainless steel.

Improve the quality of your tank water!

All our experienced installers have white cards and are experienced with working at heights. If your gutters are blocked and you cannot clean them yourself before the next storm, phone Leafshield on 1300 362 246 for an obligation free quote or visit www.leafshield.net.au.

FREE QUOTE

ALL SUBURBS

1300 362 246

LSG6051_WW_Storm

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

leafshield.net.au Installing since 1995

Buy Australian made, it’s your guarantee of quality! B Choose fro from Australian UV treated Poly or Aluminium and Stainless Steel Gutter Guards.

WW16227

your

P THWAY to SUCCESS It’s never too late to become a professional SUPER 15 RUGBY YP PLAYER LAYER

PENRITH RUGBY

Recruiting all ages now including U20s

Season Launch

Join us for a tasty bite and drinks to help us launch the season Venue: Outback Steakhouse, 123 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith Date: Friday 13th March Time 5.30 - 8pm Dress: Smart Casual RSVP: By the 7th March to Jim Hook 0412 661 655 or Ray King 0400 855 588 Cost: $30 per person

ALL APPAREL IS YOURS TO KEEP AT SEASON’S END *PRICE IS FOR NEW AND RETURNING RSL RUGBY PLAYERS TRANSFERS FROM OTHER CLUBS MAY INCUR A FEE

FACEBOOK.COM/PENRITHRSLJRUC PENRITHRSLRUGBY.COM.AU

PENRITH

SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE

APPAREL PARTNER

CANTERBURYNZ.COM.AU

Trial Games (all welcome . . . bring your kit!) Sat 28 February Penrith Emus v Eastwood .......................... 11am Sat 7 March Penrith Emus v Canberra Royals ............... 11am First Comp Game Sat 21 March v Sydney Uni ........................ 11am All Home Games @ Nepean Rugby Park WW16212

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

PENRITH EMUS

IT’S TIME FOR

PAYBACK

SUNDAY 8TH MARCH

PRE PURCHASE

FAMILY OF 4

FOR $40 USE THE CODE WORD “WEEKENDER”

TICKETS FROM GAME DAY PARTNER

WW16239

PANPA 2014 NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR RUNNER-UP

weekender the western FRI 27 FEB 2015 • Issue 1192

PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Printed on 100% recycled paper

WESTERN PROPERTY

Passion for Penrith

Don’t forget to check out our market-leading property mag

Plan to end the gridlock Liberals promise to fix Mulgoa Road nightmare if they win State Election KATHERINE TWEED

Why Emma Husar wants to represent you p.12-13

We chat to Nickelback p.35 SPORT OzTag girls win prestigious title in Coffs Harbour p.63

@ktweed_

he spine of Penrith’s road system, Mulgoa Road, will no longer be the crawling mess that local residents have endured for years, with the State Government announcing plans for a major upgrade. Minister for Roads, Duncan Gay and Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres were joined by Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies and Liberal Candidate for Londonderry, Bernard Bratusa to announce on Wednesday that the Government is prepared to commit $5 million to plan the widening of Mulgoa Road if it is returned to power next month. The plan will detail a major upgrade that will stretch along six kilometres of road from Andrews Road in the north, all the way to Glenmore Parkway in the south and is expected to cost over $300 million in total. “Everything in our entire road network hangs off this road. We know that it is well and truly under pressure particularly in the peaks,” Mr Ayres said. “There simply isn’t a project in our part of the world that is bigger than the Mulgoa Road upgrade. If you asked anyone in Penrith, in my humble opinion, they would tell you that it should have been done years ago.” The $5 million plan will include a community consultation period, where local residents will have the opportunity to weigh in on the upgrades, and is expected to be complete by the end of this year. “This is an important start to where we want to get to. To do anything properly you’ve got to know what you’re doing. $5 million; it’s in our budget, it

Duncan Gay, Tanya Davies, Bernard Bratusa and Stuart Ayres at Wednesday’s announcement is in our plan, it will happen – this announcement today is about getting that shovel ready,” Mr Gay said. “There wouldn’t be a person in this area that doesn’t use this road at least once a week and probably four times a week.” The upgrade is expected to take place in five stages, if the Baird Government is re-elected.

“This election is a battle of who has the best plans, policies and ability to congestion bust our state and our region here in Penrith,” Mrs Davies said. “From all of the announcements we’ve seen from the Baird Government it’s quite clear that we are leaps and bounds ahead of the Opposition in terms of the money, the plans and the vision.”

SEATTLE SOUND Friday 6th March @ 9pm

WW16205

Trade Pricing on all Pedders Parts purchased in the month of February! *Not available with any other offers

WW16253

FRE SHOWE

Friday 27 February 2015 ÂŤ the western weekender

Heel Pain? Tried stretc hing? Hard o rthoti cs? Gel in soles? No res ults? We Ge t RES ULTS! Pain when standing after sitting or resting? Pain in the morning? Pain after exercise? Have you tried other therapies without success? Been told that there is nothing you can do about this? There are solutions to your PAIN! We see hundreds of patients every year with pain just like yours.

A Step Ahead

Foot+AnkleCare

We have appeared as foot health experts in

Australian Ambassadors for Clarks footwear

Penrith 4732 2007 St Marys 9673 2987 Check us out now at www.astepahead.com.au Join us and our 10,000+ fans on

http://www.facebook.com/podiatristsydney for more information WW10701

Local News

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

In the dog house: Pets banned from Gallery KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

he once pet-friendly Penrith Regional Gallery and The Lewers Bequest has banned animals from their premises, sparking an uproar among the dog loving members of the local community. The gallery and cafe, located in Emu Plains, has been threatening the ban for a number of weeks but finally put the nail in the coffin following a board meeting on Wednesday. For local residents who walk their dogs along the Nepean River, stopping off at the gallery for a coffee with their pets, the news is devastating. “We visit Lewers every weekend. It’s a beautifully quiet area where we can sit in the garden and relax over breakfast, lunch or just a coffee. We choose Lewers because of the location, being right next to the river walk it is a welcome stop after our long ‘walkies’ and the garden is a nice spot to catch up with friends and family. And when I say family, I mean the dogs too,” said local resident, Natalie Reyes, who has been attending the gallery with her two 10-year-old border collies for years. “I feel that Lewers is making a huge

mistake in their decision to stop pets from entering the cafe. It’s a real let down to the pet-loving community of Penrith, especially because pets are family.” Penrith resident Lauren Taylor agreed, asking why venues in the city and in other countries can allow dogs but the gallery in Penrith can’t. “As a resident of Penrith who loves my dogs and enjoys the atmosphere at the Lewers Cafe, I am disappointed by the lack of recreational areas for families with pets in our region. I feel that they are banning our community when we have done nothing wrong,” she said. “Instead of a blatant ban which will impact and isolate a significant number of their loyal patrons, they should look at other venues as an example. It would be better and more reasonable to look at improving facilities to accommodate our companions and improve our overall experience instead of banning us. “How many incidents have the Lewers experienced over their many years of operation? Next to none, so this should not be an issue now. The risk of an incident or dog attack is extremely rare and therefore cannot be used as a reason for a blatant ban.” CEO of Penrith Performing and Visual

Lauren Taylor with her dog Merry at the Gallery Arts, Hania Radvan, said that the board understands that the decision was regrettable for the local people who love to take their dogs to the gallery. “Unfortunately we have to make hard decisions for the whole community, not

just one group of people. The decision has been partly based on risk and while the board accepts that there hasn’t been an incident to date, we can’t manage risk by waiting for an incident to happen,” she said.

T IF RS EE R FR U O Y IT IS VIS

STRENGTH & WEIGHT TRAINING @ ATMOSPHERE www.atmospherefitness.com.au

DID YOU KNOW? • Atmosphere has a studio dedicated to strength training • Our strength studio has Technogym Pure Strength Plate loaded equipment coupled with Technogym Artis pin loaded equipment. This equipment is the best available in the world. • All new members get a free 1 hour with a personal trainer and a free 4 week training program written onto your wellness key which you can use in our club • We have over 30 pieces of equipment in our strength studio and over 35 treadmills in our club

CROSS TRAINING AT ATMOSPHERE • Atmosphere has a large 30 metre long studio dedicated to cross training • Our Body Fit classes will improve flexability, strength, mobility and cardiovascular fitness • We have a super functional Cross Training Rig 16 metres long where you can Box, Powerlift, do suspension training, and is great for overhead exercises such as chin ups • There is literally hundreds of exercises you can do in our Body Fit Studio

SOME FACTS ABOUT ATMOSPHERE • No lock in contracts • We are the largest Health & Fitness club in Western Sydney – over 5000m2 of facilities • Undercover parking for 130 cars • We are the only club in Western Sydney to offer the Technogym Wellness system where you can create your own training plans and select training programs from our library of over 3000 workouts • Our building is brand new and built to high architectural standards and we are fully air conditioned • We have a Nutrition Station Café • We can look after your children 6 weeks to 12 years old in our large fun Active Kids Club

Mention this ad to receive

8 Separate Non-Intimidating Training Zones

10% OFF

the joining fee WW16104

16-19 LAMBRIDGE PLACE, NORTH PENRITH 4760 0700

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Editor's Desk Imagine a church... that feels like family, where new friends are made and where your faith in God can grow...

FRIDAYS Youth

6.00pm Connect Groups 7.00pm Service

SUNDAYS 9.30am with kids programs 5.30pm Afternoon Service with kids programs

WW10431

CNR NORTHERN RD & M4 ORCHARD HILLS PH: 4736 3000 INCHURCHPENRITH.COM

WW13308

EXTREME BODY REPAIRS Towing Available

Lic. 49632

FREE

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Latest NRL scandal disappointing, but drugs are rampant in society Problems at the Titans, and in society The NRL made the right decision this week to take over the running of the Gold Coast Titans, with the cocaine allegations now hanging over the club simply the last straw. Rugby league on the Gold Coast is again under huge threat, but the NRL’s takeover will in the very least offer some short-term stability and long-term hope. The allegations hanging over several Titans players are disappointing for every rugby league fan. Supporters are sick of off-field problems dominating the headlines in the pre-season and damaging the game’s reputation even further. But I think it’s important to recognise that the issues that emerged over the last week are not a problem confined to high profile sports people with “too much money and time”. Some 8.1 per cent of Australians aged 14 years and over have used cocaine one or more times in their life. A Daily Telegraph report last year said cocaine use in Sydney was soaring, with “tradies, real estate agents, students and even mums and dads” just as likely to be using the drug as cashed up sports stars. In recent times there’s also been extraordinary evidence of the number of people on our roads using drugs. One in six drivers tested positive for illegal substances in a recent crackdown. And last weekend, we saw that horrifying accident where three women and a toddler were mowed down by a Sydney man who had taken ice and didn’t sleep for three days. My point here is that while the media will, rightly, put the spotlight on the Titans players this week because of their high profile, this isn’t really rugby league’s problem to fix. It’s certainly rugby league’s problem to deal with right now, but the solution does not come from Dave Smith or within the confines of NRL

headquarters. The solution comes with cracking down on drugs and getting serious about prison times and punishments for users and dealers. Until that happens, drug use will continue to be prevalent in society – whether it be at a rugby league club, a real estate agency or a trucking company.

TROY DODDS @troydodds

This isn’t rugby league’s problem to ﬁx

Veterans should know better The Prime Minister made a very important address about national security on Monday. But the nation’s leading news website, news. com.au, was more concerned with the number of Australian flags Tony Abbott had behind him at the press conference. So was veteran political commentator Paul Bongiorno, who said: “I am disappointed the Prime Minister is using only six Australian flags as a backdrop. More needed as a security blanket surely”. Really tackling the big issues, aren’t we? Bias is in the eye of the beholder Any dim-writted moron who thinks ABC journalist Sarah Ferguson was bias in her questioning of Treasurer Joe Hockey after last year’s Budget should go back under their rock and read about something important, like, say, what people wore to the Oscars on Monday. Ferguson’s interview, which was the kind of political journalism we should see in this country, has been considered to have breached the ABC’s bias guidelines, a review commissioned by the public broadcaster has found. Seriously, in an age where politics is more like a media-driven soap opera and opinions are easier to find than a beer in a pub, Ferguson was hard-hitting, unforgiving and respectful to the Treasurer. We really have reached the bottom of the politically correct barrel if we’re going to criticise Ferguson for what was a brilliant interview.

Quotes

the western weekender

• Rust Repairs • Rust Proofing • All Body Repairs & Paint Work • Equipped Panel Shop • 2 Pac Oven Bake • Quality Repairs at an Affordable Price Unit 3/14 Cox Ave, KINGSWOOD P: 4731 1151 M: 0416 851 372

Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255

WW16244

WE COME TO YOU AT YOUR PLACE

www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith

Advertising: penrithsales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au Printed by: Spotpress Pty Ltd CIRCULATION: 59,400 [CAB Audit November 2014]

Ross Fowler

Editor: Troy Dodds • Journalists: Nathan Taylor, Katherine Tweed, Dale Drinkwater, Kate Reid Photographer: Melinda Jane Production Manager: Irene Adams • Production: Alana Christanga, Maddy Searle • Administration: Karlee Hansen Sales Manager: Simon Gould • Sales Executives: Paula Allsopp, Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Lewis, James Miller, Gina Perrin, Katie Grasso, Howard Cox

NEW WOMENS

North Ward Penrith City Councillor

ONLY GYM

style ngs To Suit Your Life

COME AND JOIN AND EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

Floor Coveri

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Serving Penrith, The Blue Mountains & The Hawkesbury since 1985

Memberships Start From As Little as 2046119

4731-8811

$13.65/WEEK

Showroom Open 6 Days

0419 738 484 Authorised by Ross Fowler, 11 Tindale Street, Penrith

WW3636

Unit 2/31 Coombes Drive, PENRITH www.penrithfloors.com.au

WW16294

www.australianfloorstyle.com.au

WW14256

Call Today for a Free Quote

Gym For Chicks

Unit 2/84 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains Call us- (02) 4735 4464 Email us - emuplains@ womensgymco.com.au

Locals to help Clean Up Australia

00002930

Residents urged to take part in nationwide cause this Sunday

FULL MECHANICAL WORKSHOP

KATHERINE TWEED

LPG, REGO CHECKS & SERVICE

@ktweed_

Pink Slips, Blue Slips & Green Slips Log Book Service

he first day of March is Clean Up Australia Day, when hundreds of local people will focus their attention on cleaning up Penrith, its parks and community areas. Joining the cause is the team at McDonald’s Penrith North, who will be joining the community to show their support of the annual event in celebration of the company’s 25th anniversary of its partnership with Clean Up Australia Day. Volunteers from the local store will be tidying up the streets and community areas near the store on the day as part of the event from 11am, and they are inviting the community to join them. “As a founding partner of this initiative, McDonald’s are proud of our 25 year partnership with Clean Up Australia Day,” said McDonald’s Penrith North licensee, Frank Meduri. “Over the last 25 years, volunteers have removed an estimated 288,650 tonnes of rubbish from across the country. “This year, crew and residents from Penrith North will be showing their strong community spirit and encouraging even more members of the community to get involved in cleaning up on the day.”

Full Servicing All Work Guaranteed

184 Smith St, SOUTH PENRITH

4731 4019

Tanya Davies MP Member for Mulgoa a Joanne Brissett, Larissa Large and Dominic Meduri from McDonald’s In addition to Penrith North, seven other McDonald’s restaurants in the area are taking part in the day by holding events at their locations this Sunday, March 1. There is also a large number of commu-

nity organised events that can be found on the Clean Up Australia Day website; www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au. Last year, it is estimated that 519,043 volunteers took part in Clean Up Australia Day at over 6346 sites in Australia.

Phone: (02) 9833 2913 Address: Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys 2760 Email: mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au Mail: PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790

WW15712

BEAUTIFUL & AFFORDABLE WARDROBES Custom designed and built to suit your needs

MONTHS INTEREST FREE* 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

WINNER Most Outstanding Trade & Services 2008 True Local Business Awards

ACROSS THE ENTIRE VOLVO RANGE

up to 2.44m high & 2.44m long

MIRROR 2 DOORR

$ 615 • 3 drawers • 4 shelves • Shoe spacee • Double & Single Hanging space • Handbag Shelf

up to 2.44m high & 2.44m long

MIRROR 2 DOORR

RRemember: b ““the h bibitterness off poor quality li remains i long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten”

$ 785 • 6 drawers • 8 shelves • Shoe spacee • DDouble & Single Hanging space • Handbag Shelf

Your choice of: • Hinged or sliding timber & up to 2.44m high & 3.6m long craftwood, Colonial or Federation style doors • Reflect your lifestyle in our award winning MIRROR 3 DOORR aluminium Sliding Mirror Doors • A range of $ • 6 drawers design options to make all your storage dreams ce • 8 shelves • Shoe space come true • Mirror, veneer, painted & polyurethane • Innovative features • Double & Single Hanging space • Professionally designed to meet your needs • Handbag Shelf • WALK IN ROBES • BOOKCASES • LINEN PRESS • HOME OFFICE FITOUTS • ENTERTAINMENT UNITS The above price are between walls & floors to ceiling • HAND-MADE FURNITURE & MORE

1090

Lic No. 115071C *Available to approved purchasers - conditions apply

THE INTUITIVE V40

DRIVE AWAY FROM $56,990*

DRIVE AWAY FROM $36,990^

Built-in child booster seats Power operated tailgate City Safety auto emergency braking

Stop/Start engine technology City Safety auto emergency braking Bluetooth® phone connectivity

WW10286

We Make All Your Storage Dreams... A Reality! FACTORY DIRECT. ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 20 YEARS

THE RESPONSIVE XC60

Visit our Showroom 47 Sterling Rd, MINCHINBURY

9832 4588

www.tntwardrobes.com.au E: info@tntwardrobes.com.au

Annlyn Motors

93-99 York Road Penrith 2750

*Drive away price for the XC60 T5 Kinetic. ^Drive away price for the V40 D2. *^Available for new stock vehicles purchased and delivered between 1 January 2015 and 28 February 2015. While stocks last.

T 02 4722 9900 annlynmotors.com.au

DL16178

DEALER OF THE YEAR 2013 • 2012 • 2011 • 2008 • 2004

WW15911

5 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

SMITH STREET AUTO CENTRE

Community

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

State Election 2015

Foley wants to end uncertainty Short-term contracts a big worry for community sector, NSW Opposition Leader says KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

on-government community services will be championed under a NSW Labor Government, according to NSW Opposition Leader Luke Foley who visited Penrith Women’s Health Centre on Monday. Mr Foley affirmed his commitment to supporting non-government, notfor-profit community service providers during the visit, saying that the Liberal Government sees the clients of such services as “business units”. “I spent many years in the community sector myself and I know about the ordinary people who work in community services who do extraordinary things every day and I have seen it here today at Penrith Women’s Health Centre. I want to champion the role of non-government, not-for-profit community service providers in this state,” he said. “My concern is the drift under conservative government, both state and federal, towards for-profit provision of community services and for full blown competitive tendering that threatens the very role of community based providers in this space. “I don’t want to see profiteers coming

Todd Carney, Emma Husar, Luke Foley, Prue Car and Trish Doyle. Photo: Melinda Jane into the welfare sector, treating clients as business units. The clients are people and a Labor Government led by me will step back from full market contestability and competitive tendering. We will engage with the sector, the current providers, with the staff in this sector and talk about the best model of service delivery.” Mr Foley said that for services where contracts are given, “there is a very

good argument for five-year contracts that provide greater certainty to service providers”. “I am concerned when contracts are rolled over annually or every two years that that leaves the good people in services like these to spend all of their lives bidding for the next funding round,” he said. Penrith Women’s Health Centre Manager Jane Gold agreed, saying that the stress of

one-year and two-year funding contracts creates a lot of stress and uncertainty for the organisation, especially given that a number of community organisations in Penrith have recently had to close their doors for lack of funding. “We did hear some good news recently about the NSW Health funding that we get. We should have been up for competitive tendering at the end of this financial year but they have rolled us over until June 2016. In some ways that’s good and in other ways it just gives us another 12 months of uncertainty, worrying if we are or if we aren’t going to survive,” she said. Ms Gold added that she was concerned that the uncertainty may lead to the loss of good, hardworking staff members who may have to leave the Penrith Women’s Health Centre in order to support their families in more stable positions. The Australian Services Union (ASU) held a forum during the visit, where Mr Foley was able to speak with and listen to community services operators. “We need to see greater funding certainty brought to the community services sector. Without greater certainty, community services can not plan, and they can not implement long-term programs that assist the community,” said ASU’s Natalie Lang.

WW16165

Genevieve Jereb’s

Cranebrook: Police suspicious of fire in Martley Way

Police are appealing for information from the public after an attempted robbery at a local service station. Police say that shortly before 11pm on Sunday, February 22, an unknown male entered a service station on Worth Street, Penrith, armed with a knife. The male approached the store attendant and made a demand. The attendant sounded an alarm and ran from the scene. The unknown male also ran from the scene. Police are calling for anyone with information about the incident to speak to them. The offender has been described as being between 178 and 183cm tall, Caucasian, with a medium build and a small brown beard. He was wearing a black hoodie with white writing and grey tracksuit pants as well as a pair of glasses without frames.

Police are appealing for anyone with information about a suspicious fire that occurred in Martley Way, Cranebrook on the weekend to come forward. At about 9.30pm on Saturday police were patrolling the local street when they located a group of people looking for a party that had been advertised on social media. Police moved the people on and left the scene. 15 minutes later, officers were called to the scene with reports of a fire. A vacant house in the street was well alight when they arrived. The house was destroyed and a nearby home also sustained damage. Police are investigating and believe that the fire was deliberately lit. They would like to speak to anyone who was a member of the group of people, or who attended the party in the area.

Penrith: Teenager arrested after running from police

Penrith: Teenager assaults security guard at shop

A month after an alleged young offender escaped the grasp of police, the 16-year-old has been charged. Police were patrolling the Northern Road, Penrith, on January 12, when they had reason to stop a young person who was riding a push bike. When police went to check the legitimacy of the bike, they allege that the young person ran away, escaping police after a short chase. It was established that the bike was allegedly stolen from Narrabeen in late 2014. On Wednesday, February 18, the same constable who stopped the bicycle rider last month recognised the boy at a local venue on Station Street, Penrith. He was arrested.

Police attended a shopping centre on Station Street on Monday, where they dealt with a young person who was allegedly involved in assaulting a security guard whilst trespassing. Police allege that a 14-year-old male attended the shopping centre at about 7.15pm on Monday, February 23, and was riding a scooter around the store. He was allegedly spoken to by a security guard who had reason to detain him. Police say that the boy allegedly assaulted the security guard. Police were called to the scene and it was found that the boy was in fact barred from the shopping centre. He was dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.

The Traffic Jam in My Brain A New and Innovative Sensory Processing Approach that works “from the inside out” to empower the child, with Autism, ADHD, ADD, Learning, Sensory and Behavioural Differences

FRIDAY 10 APRIL 2014 • ONE-DAY WORSHOP PENRITH PANTHERS

Genevieve Jereb International speaker OT Singer / songwriter of the much-loved children’s albums Say G’day!, Cool Bananas and Jumpin’ Jellybeans

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“

This workshop has really made a difference to me. I now, for the first time, understand my son – and that is pure joy! (Parent of a child with Austism)

“

Penrith: Attempted robbery at local service station

WHO SHOULD ATTEND • Parents • Educators (regular and special education)

• Caregivers • Pre-school Teachers • Child Care Workers • Occupational Therapists • Speech Pathologists • Physical Therapists • Physicians • Paediatricians • Other Professionals who work with children

SPACE IS LIMITED – registration by booking directly

www.SensoryTools.net It’s quick and easy to sign up online with your credit card using our secure server.

ph: 4578 6123 email: salesau@sensorytools.net WW16230

Bernard Bratusa and The Baird Liberal Team are working hard to deliver for Londonderry. • Closed the St Marys Methadone Clinic to support small business and enable the revitalisation of St Marys village • Delivering 5,600 extra weekly transport services in Western Sydney and rolled out Opal Card to all railway stations and buses • Improving the quality of teaching and delivering additional funding to NSW schools through the “Gonski” education agreement

• Providing $500 million in additional funding over four years for child protection – to support the transition of out-of-home care to the non-government sector and to provide more assistance to caseworkers • Planning for Western Sydney’s airport at Badgery’s Creek to create more jobs, local infrastructure and opportunities • Completed the new ‘East Block’ for Nepean Hospital, including six more operating theatres, a 60 bed surgical ward, an expanded ICU, and a new car park

Co Contact Bernard: P 0403 0 428 362 M PO Box 415, St Marys NSW 1790 E londonderry@nsw.liberal.org.au W www.bernardbratusa.com.au Facebook bernardbratusa4londonderry Authorised by Tony Nutt, 100 William Street, East Sydney NSW 2011.

WW16019

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Police snapshot

Intruder arrested

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

A man has been charged over an alleged break and enter incident in Collett Close, Cranebrook over the weekend. At about 11.15am on Sunday, February 22, a male allegedly entered the home of a 61-year-old person, who was home at the time. The victim confronted the intruder, who allegedly tried to give reason for his action before exiting through the back door. Police were called and the male was identified. Early this week the alleged offender was arrested in Cranebrook and charged with ‘break and enter with intent’. He was refused bail and appeared in court on Tuesday. For more police news as it breaks, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ westernweekender.

Making progress The Penrith Progression project is about to tip into its exciting stage after the launch of its ‘Action Plan’ to ‘Transform the City Centre and Deliver Jobs for the Future’. Penrith Progression Project Director, Craig Butler, said the Action Plan lays a solid framework for the way ahead and has the potential to bring more than 10,000 jobs and 5,000 dwellings to the City Centre. “The City’s Centre needs to connect people with jobs, investors with opportunities and businesses with people working or living in the City Centre,” he said. The Penrith Progression launch took place in Penrith on Thursday.

Police

Four busted drink driving in Penrith Weekend-long operation produces reasonably good results from drivers KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

weekend-long operation targeting drink driving took place last weekend, producing results in the local area that has Traffic and Highway Patrol officers impressed. Operation Drink Drive 1 ran from 12.01am on Thursday, February 19, until 11.59pm on Saturday, February 21, targeting drink driving and also put a spotlight on drug affected motorists, fatigue, seatbelts and speeding. Across the state, 200,672 breath tests were carried out, with 3011 of those taking place in the Penrith Local Area Command. A total of 188 people were charged with drink driving offences and only four of them were in Penrith. Local Traffic and Highway Patrol officers charged three people with mid-range PCA and one with low-range PCA. They also handed out 86 tickets for general offences and 24 speeding tickets to drivers. “With the state’s road toll currently at 56 fatalities from 52 fatal crashes, being five crashes and three deaths down on this time last year, this operation is about making sure those that are drinking and driving, placing themselves, their

INDEPENDENT LOCAL

PLUMBERS turn up on time”

Specialising in: • Blocked drains • Hot water heaters • Leaking toilets

• Burst pipes • Leaking taps • Any job big or small • Seniors card welcome

50off

any work carried out coupon!

Police were out and about conducting random breath tests last weekend passengers and other road users at risk, are taken off our roads,” said Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley. “In 2009, 20 per cent of those killed in

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council. Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free of charge during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Approved Development Applications s G Wehbe

DA14/0936

(No. 59) Franklin Crescent, Blackett, Lot 4 DP 10605 (No. 12) Railway Street, Werrington, Lot 3 DP 1605 (No. 13) Railway Street, Werrington Demolition of existing structures and construction of a residential ﬂat building (2-storey) comprising 18 units and associated basement parking, drainage and landscaping works s Mr N Billyard

DA14/0849

Lot 2479 DP 16937 (No. 99) Canberra Street, Oatlands

Must present or mention this deal

Ph: 1800 622 877

Tree removal and construction of 3 x 4-bedroom and 2 x 3-bedroom attic style villas

fatal crashes, being 94 people, died as a result of drink-driving. In 2013, that number fell to 15.9 per cent, or 53 people. “This is proof that our random breath testing operations do save lives.”

s Property Innovations Group

DA14/0946

Lot 220 DP 16937 (No. 40) Canberra Street, Oxley Park Residential. Multi-unit housing – demolition of existing structures and construction of 5 x attic style villas with associated car parking, landscaping, tree removal and drainage works The above development determination/s may be inspected between 8.30am and 4.00pm Mondays to Fridays (except Public Holidays) at Council’s Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Ofﬁcers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries. Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au Viewing of Development Applications The above development determination/s may be inspected between 8.30am and 4pm Mondays to Fridays (except Public Holidays) at Council’s Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Ofﬁcers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

Lic: 187379C WW16281

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrithishere.com.au

WW16235

9 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

SPEAKING UP FOR PENRITH

PENRITH

STATE ELECTION 2015 Council is calling on local candidates in the March 2015 election to commit to projects that will help our City grow and prosper.

NEWS

These include express train services, more commuter parking, improved State roads and better access and exits on the M4 at Mulgoa and The Northern Roads.

Ask your candidate what they’re doing for you. Go to penrithcity.nsw.gov.au and search ‘Advocacy’ for the full list of projects.

CONTACT US ADMINISTRATION Penrith Ofﬁce Civic Centre, 601 High Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Ofﬁce Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri. P: (02) 4732 7777 F: (02) 4732 7958

COUNCIL BRIEFS s Clean Up Australia Day is celebrating its 25th Clean Up and you can help on Sunday, 1 March 2015. Since the national event started in 1990 Australians have donated more than 27.2 million hours taking to their streets, bushland, parks and waterways on Clean Up Australia Day, removing an estimated 288,650 tonnes of rubbish from 145,754 sites across the country.

Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751.

There are a number of sites around Penrith earmarked for a clean up including Regatta Park and Cranebrook Bushland.

E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

Penrith Council will collect the waste from the sites and dispose of it in the right way instead of it being left in our parks, rivers and bushlands.

SERVICES Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735 Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

To get involved and see what clean up sites are close to you, visit the website cleanupaustraliaday.org.au s An International Women’s Day event will take place on Wednesday, 4 March 2015.

Grafﬁti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

The theme for International Women’s Day this year is ‘Make it Happen’, providing inspiration for a number of speakers and performers at the event

MEETING DATES

Registration is at 9am for a 9.30am start and the event will conclude at midday.

Council Meetings 9 March 2015 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee) 23 March 2015 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting)

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au penrithishere.com.au

Where: St Marys Corner Community and Cultural Precinct Memorial Hall, Cnr Great Western Highway and Mamre Road, St Marys (parking entry via 29 Swanston Street) RSVP: Event is FREE to attend. For catering, please RSVP by Monday, 2 March 2015. Call Penrith Women’s Health Centre on 4721 8749 or email pwhcentre@pwhc.org.au s Penrith City Library will host the 14th Annual History Conference on Saturday, 14 March 2015. The conference will focus on the 200th anniversary of Penrith’s ﬁrst government building, with several prominent historians invited to speak about Penrith’s early settlement and the people instrumental in its development. The remainder of the day will be devoted to acknowledging the district’s contribution to WW1, including information about the creation of the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) and the Gallipoli campaign. 14th Annual History Conference Topic: The Makings of a City: From Guard House to Gallipoli Date:

14 March 2015

RSVP: Phone 4732 7891 or email researchservices@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au Cost:

$50 per person

TENDER Provision of Banking Services Reference 14/15-20 Penrith City Council invites Tenders from suitably qualiﬁed and experienced contractors for the following: Provision of Banking Services for the period July 2015 to June 2021. Pre-Tender Brieﬁng: 11am Wednesday, 4 March 2015. Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Our-Council/Tenders/ to register and download tender documents free of charge. Alternatively a hard copy is available for a non-refundable fee of $75 (inc GST) by arrangement. For queries please contact Laura Schuil on 4732 7663 or lschuil@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au All submissions should be lodged on the forms provided in accordance with the lodgement instructions contained in the documents no later than 11am Monday, 23 March 2015 (‘the Closing Date’). Tenders received after will not be considered.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS The following development applications have been received by Council: s Pretech Pty Ltd

DA15/0116

63 Parker Street, Penrith and 2 Markham Street, Penrith Demolition of existing structures and construction of 7 x attic style villas with associated car parking, drainage and landscaping works under the provisions of State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009 Contact: Jane Hetherington on 4732 8078 Closing Date: 16 March 2015 s Stonebrae Pty Ltd

DA14/1028.02

77 Australia Street, St Marys Section 82A Review of determination to reconsider the demolition of existing structures and construction of 6 x attic style villas with associated car parking, drainage and landscaping works Contact: Donna Clarke on 4732 7705 Closing Date: 16 March 2015 s Pretech Pty Ltd

DA15/0109

61–63 Great Western Highway, Kingswood Demolition of existing structures and construction of 10 x 2-bedroom attic style villa’s with associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works under the provisions of State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009 Contact: Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726 Closing Date: 16 March 2015

WW16234

Arts

‘Food city’ to be a major talking point Unique art project at Penrith Regional Gallery aims to get locals thinking about those less fortunate KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

ity of Plenty may just be the most community focused art project to come out of Penrith Regional Gallery yet, as it encourages people to donate, offers the community a unique chance to see an artist in action, will act as a learning experience for students and will feed the homeless. Over the next three weeks, Artist Sarah Goffman will be constructing a miniature city in the Main Gallery at Penrith Regional Gallery but it won’t be a regular city, it will be one that has been made out of food. Using non-perishable foods and household consumables that have been donated for the project, Ms Goffman will create the city and unlike many artists, will be allowing the community to watch her while she works, including students who will blog about the project. After her work is complete, the city will be on display until Saturday, March 28, before it is packed up and carted off to charities, like Penrith Community Kitchen and OzHarvest. Ms Goffman said the project raises questions about the issues of homelessness and the needy in the community and is

designed to get people thinking about others. “I feel like this project is a shrine, a memorial to the homeless; here’s this gift, I have tried to make it as beautiful as possible. We honour you, you are part of our community and we are all part of this together,” Ms Goffman said. The artist said that she hopes that people who view the work in action or upon its completion will see the world differently, in a more positive way. “I hope that the people who come here will feel happiness, joy, thrills! I hope that when they go to the supermarket they will remember this a little bit and that they will have a different relationship with what they are consuming,” she said. Members of the local community are being asked to donate food to the project so that they can be part of the mass donation to charity as well as part of a unique art project. Collection boxes can be found at Penrith Regional Gallery, Penrith City Library, The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre and Penrith PCYC. Are you working on a unique project? We’d love to hear about it. Email news@ westernweekender.com.au or call us on 4722 2998.

Sarah Goffman is the artist behind ‘City of Plenty’

Introducing

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

www.sassysmiles.com.au

Clean up and Drop off

RM2112599

Before

WW16119

After Fast, Affordable*, Pain Free — Designer Smiles

1790046

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

* From half to a third off the cost of traditional veneers Call and quote BMGSS15 to make make your your complimentary, complimentary, personal personal Call now nowand andquote quoteBMGSS14 WWSS15 to complimentary consultation, to determine determine your your options/suitability options/suitabilityfor for this this new new technology technology consultation to Visit our comprehensive website at www.simplybeautifulsmiles.com.au or www.sassysmiles.com.au for our more affordable smile options

Penrith is recognised as a leader in sustainable waste management, particularly when it comes to our household organic waste recycling service. Council commends residents for actively supporting us to reduce waste sent to landfill through reducing, reusing, recycling and generally disposing of waste responsibly. There are however items around the home which cannot be disposed of through the normal two-bin and threebin service. Items such as household chemicals, motor fuels, oils and poisons can form a lethal cocktail in our environment if they are not disposed of correctly. Council and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) are holding a Chemical Drop Off Day on Saturday, March 7 at Jamison Park. Now is the time to have a look around your house to see what household cleaners, chemicals, batteries and oils you want to dispose of. All you need to do is place the items into the boot of your vehicle

and when you arrive at the Chemical Drop Off the friendly staff will unload the contents for disposal in the correct and safe manner. While searching through your unwanted items at home, any electronic waste can be brought to Council’s E-Waste drop-off day on Sunday, March 8. Computers and televisions are a growing component of this problem. E-waste contains many valuable, recoverable materials such as aluminium, copper, gold, silver, plastics, and ferrous metals. In order to conserve natural resources and the energy needed to produce new electronic equipment, old equipment can be recycled instead of being sent to landfill. If you have any unwanted items bring them to the E-Waste collection. Staff will unload the items for you. For more information about the Chemical Drop-off Day or the E-Waste Drop-off, visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au.

ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

Dr John Wells (BDS Syd) LVI Trained Neuromuscular Dentist 4731 1599 196 Derby Street, Penrith www.simplybeautifulsmiles.com.au www.sassysmiles.com.au

NEW WEBSITE: We will soon be launching an all new website to keep you informed of the latest news, sport, entertainment and more. Keep an eye on www.westernweekender.com.au!

CALL OUR FREE

PANTHERS

COURTESY BUS

1800 061 991

TO COME & PICK YOU UP!

-90+(@

:(;<9+(@

:<5+(@

465+(@

;<,:+(@

>,+5,:+(@

;/<9:+(@

-,)9<(9@

4(9*/

Cash Housie & Bingo 9am JACKPOT AT $1,250! $2,000 RafďŹ&#x201A;e 5.30pm Member Money Madness $27,000 TO BE WON! 7.30pm, 8pm & 8.30pm LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Domâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: Emma Kirk 8.30pm Terrace: Matt Price Duo 8.30pm

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Terrace: Natasha Duarte 5.30pm Dan Spillane 9pm Domâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: Jo Elms Duo 8.30pm

Markets @ Panthers from 9am $3,000 RafďŹ&#x201A;e 1.30pm LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Terrace: Melody Rhymes 3.30pm $5,000 Members Badge Draw 5pm, 6pm, 7pm Poker | Fernhill Room 5.30pm 2 for 1 Schnitzel M: $20 l V: $24

Free Bingo | TCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 9am Indoor Bowls 10 am Gentle Exercises 10 am Steak Night M: $12 l V: $15

TCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s After Dark with DJ Paul 10pm

EVAN: Manpower 7.30pm 18+ Only Event

P lay

WIN BIG

Line Dancing | TCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 6pm Cash Housie & Bingo 6pm Fernhill Room

CASH O

Bingo | TCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 9am $1,200 Gift Card RafďŹ&#x201A;e: 12.45pm

$5,000 Badge Draw 7pm, 8pm & 9pm $2,000 Free Members Giveaway! Drawn 7pm

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Terrace: Rob Henry 6.30pm

Burger Night M $12 | V $15

*Conditions *Con onditi di ons Apply diti A y | See Appl ee website webs w bsite te for o details d ilils | Information deta In nform f ma atio on correct o co correc rrectt at at time tim me of printing. printin nti g. We W are a safe premises that practices pract ractice icess responsible respons res n ible service service of alco alcohol cohol hol Kellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weeknight specials available after 5pm only

Authorised Under NSW Permits Escape, Experience, Explore! Promotion Members Badge Draws Members Giveaway Members Money Madness

LTPS/15/00308 LTPS/14/06008 & LTPS/14/07847 LTPS/14/04956 LTPS/15/00346

WW12944

MULGOA ROAD PENRITH NSW 2750 1800 061 991 P E N R I T H . PA N T H E R S . C O M . A U FA C E B O O K . C O M / P E N R I T H R U G B Y L E A G U E C L U B

Bingo | TCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 9am & 6pm $1,200 Gift Card Raffle: 12.45pm Mexican Night M $12 | V $15

*A payment processing fee of 1.95% 1.95 95% applies to all purchasess made ma m mad ade e by credit c or debit it card. card d. A payment pay ayment ment processing proc oce essing g fee does do not no apply apply p for purcha purchases urcha hases sses e made ma ade de through throug ough h Ticketek agents or outlets when using cash, or when redeeming a Ticketek Gift Voucher. Transaction Fees may apply

FREE WIFI

the western weekender Âť Friday 27 February 2015

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON AT

State Election 2015

Emma’s passion to make a difference She faces an uphill battle to unseat Stuart Ayres, but Emma Husar is confident Labor can make inroads DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

mma Husar is facing a big challenge to win the seat of Penrith for Labor against prominent political figures Stuart Ayres (the sitting Liberal MP) and Independent Jackie Kelly. However, Ms Husar said she is a genuine contender for the March 28 State Election and as a mother of three, one with Autism and another with a chronic illness, she believes she has what it takes to put up a fight. In 2004, Ms Husar was triggered over Jackie Kelly’s gift of an “I Love Penriff” t-shirt to then prime minister John Howard, and set out on a mission for change. Since then, Ms Husar has identified herself as a strong Labor supporter and voice for the community, trying to reshape the city’s perceptions and possibilities.

Why she’s entering politics “I’m a born and raised local and exceptionally proud of the area, and proud of calling it mine and my children’s home,” Ms Husar said. “I’m a huge advocate for our area and I’ve already been working out here for over 15

Emma Husar is the Labor Candidate for Penrith at the March 28 election. Photo: Melinda Jane

SATURDAY 7 MARCH

9am - 3.30pm (entry via Jamison Rd only)

JAMISON PARK FREE DROP OFF WEEKEND

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

CleanOut your household chemicals the right way From your home:

From your garage:

Solvents and household cleaners Floor care products Ammonia based cleaners Fluorescent globes and tubes

Paint and paint related products Pesticides and herbicides Poisons Gas bottles Fire extinguishers Pool chemicals Hobby chemicals Acids and alkalis

From your car: Car batteries Motor oils, fuels and fluids

Including materials with the following logos:

SUNDAY 8 MARCH

9am - 3.30pm (entry via Jamison Rd only)

ELECTRONIC WASTE DROP OFF Pack your old televisions, computers, microwaves, stereos and other electronic waste in your car or trailer. The friendly staff will unload for you and the items collected will be recycled. Large whitegoods and BBQs cannot be accepted.

Only household quantities accepted 20kg or 20L maximum container size. Please transport your materials carefully and remain in your vehicle at the collection site.

For more information call the Environment Line on 131 555 or visit www.cleanout.com.au

Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au for a full list of acceptable items, or for more information phone 4732 7615

WW16211

years. I genuinely care and I’m going into this to make a difference.”

On employment in western Sydney “We need people trained in our suburbs, who have the relevant degrees. The aspirational levels of people out here to go to university, to train on... so when we do bring the employment out here we have the people living here who can fill those jobs,” Ms Husar said. “[We] need to address some employment opportunities that we have. We’ve got services that are not met with the current employment opportunities, so there’s very limited employment out here.” On electricity privatisation “Essential services should never be privatised,” Ms Husar said. “Penrith experiences 90 days on average a year above 30 degrees, and the city only gets 17 days on average. We are already high consumers of electricity, we don’t have a beach, we don’t have a sea breeze and if you’re lucky enough you’ve got a pool or air conditioning, so we’re running those things to keep ourselves cool. “We are already high consumers of

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Why Labor? “Values. Labor has always stood up for people, Labor’s been responsible for things like Medicare, the aged pension, no fault divorce, the establishment of the first women’s refuge – things that are socially just and socially right to give everybody an equal opportunity,” Ms Husar said. “I want an inclusive society, I want to live in a community to make sure everybody is getting through. We have strong values and strong ethics around how we help people. It’s putting people first.”

energy and with privatisation we’re going to see cost increases like South Australia and Victoria.” On health cuts “Nobody has anything to gain from a stupid or sick society, so to walk away from things like Medicare and good funding of TAFE... is not going to lead to a better society in 30 years’ time,” Ms Husar said. “When you’re cutting away at Medicare, adding a co-payment, adding extra fees to prescription, pathology, x-rays, that’s not helping everybody. Families with three children would not be able to afford to take their child for all three services if all three children came down with something. “And I’ve been in that position. Given I do have a child with a chronic ongoing medical issue, of course that’s a bit different to most people, but most people I talk to tell me that’s not affordable.” On education “We help people reach their potential by providing investment in education, including TAFE. I want to see people reach their full potential, and that’s how I’ve looked at my own child with special needs and all of the children I was involved in when I was teaching,” Ms Husar said. “At the moment we are seeing people, especially out here, priced out of an education. People who are going back to studying the course from last year that was free, are paying $2000 this year... those kinds of fees are just unaffordable and unattainable for most people.” On commuting for work “Commuting for two to four hours a day is horrendous, I used to do it,” Ms Husar said.

Emma Husar believes Penrith is “undersold” throughout Sydney. Photo: Melinda Jane “We know when people have to commute it leads to poorer health outcomes, and it leads to more destablisation in the family unit. “You can build as many M4 lanes as you like, but it’s not going to stop people from having to commute every single day. To create employment out here in western Sydney, we’ve got to look at areas like the Penrith Central Business District and revitalise it.”

On Penrith “We have great potential and I want to help Penrith achieve because we are definitely undersold throughout Sydney... and I think we’ve got huge potential to be a driving force for the rest of NSW,” Ms Husar said. “We’ve got the ‘westie’ stereotype and the tags. It’s time Penrith shows the rest of the state that we are smart, committed and have a lot of potential.”

urant. Come on in and check out our new look resta

Present this voucher to receive a complimentary ¼ chicken with any meal purchase. Nando’s Penrith Located in Nepean Village (opposite Paceway) 148 Station St. Ph: 4732 6424 T&C’s: Meal = Any Main Item + Side + Drink. Offer valid at restaurant stated only. This voucher must be handed over with purchase of meal to redeem offer. Not valid with any other offer. 1/4 chicken cannot be changed for any other item. PERi-Perks points will not be awarded for purchases in association with any offer or discount. One offer per chicken lover per day. Please do not litter. Please enjoy PERi-PERi responsibly. Valid until: 31/05/2015. WW15513

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Roads

Upgrade makes access to Penrith Station easier DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

ocal commuters using the North Penrith commuter car park can enjoy easier access with the completion of the Castlereagh Road and Thornton Drive intersection upgrade. The completion was welcomed by State Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres, Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler and UrbanGrowth’s Development Director Mike Williams at the intersection last week. The $1 million upgrade, combined with works along Combewood Avenue to be completed in just two weeks, is expected to improve access for commuters to Penrith Station. Mr Ayres said this project in conjunction with the opening of Combewood Avenue is a big step in the right direction and shows the government is listening to the community. “Generally the expectation people have on governments is that when houses come, roads come with it, and this is us making sure that takes place,” he said. “We’ve listened to the community about the need for infrastructure to match housing growth and unlike what happened for 16 consecutive years under Labor, we’re

doing things a little differently.” Mr Williams said the project was fully funded by state-owned corporation UrbanGrowth NSW as a part of their delivery to the Thornton development. “From UrbanGrowth’s perspective, this is just evidence of us meeting our commitments that we started when we planned this development a number of years ago,” he said. “We recognise the development generates certain impacts in the local community and it’s important to alleviate those impacts with the right infrastructure and this is really a case in point.” Mr Williams added that the package was delivered as part of wider local traffic improvements in the Thornton Project. “These roads will deliver about 80 additional on-street unrestricted parking spaces so there will be a little additional overflow parking available,” he said. Cr Fowler congratulated both the State Government and UrbanGrowth for delivering what they promised. “We are looking forward to the Station Plaza being completed in the near future and we are looking forward to a vibrant community evolving from the people who are now living there and will be in the future,” he said.

Mike Williams, Penrith MP Stuart Ayres and Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler at the Thornton Drive and Castlereagh Road intersection

News in Brief Labor Candidate for Londonderry Prue Car has joined Blacktown Mayor Stephen Bali and Ropes Crossing locals to announce that a Foley Labor Government will deliver $63,000 to upgrade the Ropes Crossing Community Hub.

$63k

for Ropes WW16159

GLENDENNING

AUTO REPAIRS Specialists in steering & front ends, brakes

Steve

Service and repairs for all makes & models

Shane

2/52 Christie St

St Marys - 9833 1724

WW7207

The funding will be used to install barbecue facilities, a shade cover and louvers at the hub. Ms Car said that she was proud her

Just six months after its release, the WIRES rescue app has already been downloaded over 7,500 times by NSW residents; evidence, according to the organisation, that people really do care about native wildlife. The app not only allows WIRES to process rescue calls more efficiently and quickly place animals into the care of volunteers but it also gives the general public easy access to information. Local WIRES rescue volunteer, Troy Hovenden, is primarily involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of reptiles. “I know that reptiles tend to get misunderstood by the greater public at large and that sometimes people need assistance,” he said.

party is investing in local communities in western Sydney. “Ropes Crossing is a fantastic place to live and raise a family and by working together we can make it even better,” Ms Car said. “It is one of our community’s fastest growing suburbs with over 2200 homes and 6000 residents – that’s why we need to make sure it has the very best facilities.” She said it’ll boost the community. “This upgrade will help promote the strong sense of community that already exists in Ropes Crossing,” she said. “I am extremely proud that a NSW Labor Government will invest in vital community projects such as the Ropes Crossing Community Hub.”

“It is nice to be able to rescue reptiles, rehabilitate them and see them released back into the wild. It is very rewarding.”

Rescue app success

Mr Hovenden said that with the app, WIRES is much better equipped to get local residents the assistance that they need, whether it be in regards to a snake that has found its way into a garage or a possum that has been attacked by a dog.

OFF

ALL DISCONTINUED

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

RUNOUT SALE

PENRITH

DON’T MISS OUT!

ADVANCE & PRESTIGE RANGES In store stock only.

DON’T MISS OUT! ALL EXCESS STOCK MUST GO!

EN DS AR 9TH M 2015

MONTHS INTEREST FREE

ON FURNITURE, BEDDING & BATHROOM. MINIMUM PURCHASE $490.

Available in Queen or King size

•NO DEPOSIT •NO INTEREST TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE WITH 60 EQUAL MONTHLY PAYMENTS UNTIL FEB 2020

Visit www.domayne.com.au

Available in store or online. Approved applicants only. Fees & charges apply. Interest applies if you do not comply with terms and conditions.

PENRITH Cnr Mulgoa Rd & Wolseley St. 4737 5000

295381_PEN

ONCE WE SELL OUT,YOU MISS OUT!

Domayne ® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Ends 15/03/15. Discounts are off the normal ticketed prices. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Images are for illustrative purposes only. *1. Conditions of 60 Months Instalment Interest Free on Furniture, Bedding and Bathroom – No Deposit, No Interest with Equal Monthly Payments until February 2020: Available to approved GO MasterCard customers on transactions made between 13/02/15 and 09/03/15 where the amount ﬁnanced is $490 or more. Offer available on purchases from Domayne franchisees (excludes brands and other products that are offered for sale under agency agreements with Domayne franchisees). Offer available on advertised or ticketed price. Total amount is payable by 60 approximate equal monthly instalments (exact amounts speciﬁed in your statement). If there is an outstanding balance after the interest free period ends in February 2020, interest will be charged at 29.49%. This notice is given under the GO MasterCard Conditions of Use, which specify all other conditions for this offer. A $25.00 Establishment Fee applies to new approved applicants. Account Service fee of $4.95 per month applies. Also available to existing GE Creditline, Gem Visa and Buyer’s WW16035 Edge customers. Refer to product websites for conditions, fees and charges. Credit is provided by GE Capital Finance Australia (ABN 42 008 583 588), trading as GE Money. Australian Credit Licence 392145.

OPEN NIGHT Caroline Chisholm College, Glenmore Park k 2016 Enrolments for Girls Years 7-12 Enrolment information will be available on this night.

Monday 9th March 2015, 6.00pm to 8.30pm Activities on Open Night Include: • Displays of students’ work • Opportunities to talk to current students and staff • Information Sessions: 6.30pm to 7.00pm and 7.30 to 8.00pm • Performances by students • Tours of College facilities Further information can be found on our website

www.cccglenmorepark.nsw.edu.au Enrolment packages can be obtained by contacting the College on 4737 5506 Follow us on: Limited vacancies exist in most years 90 - 98 The Lakes Drive | Glenmore Park NSW 2745 WW16047

16 Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

State Politics

Boost to firefighting resources in busy Londonderry area

The new Londonderry Rural Fire Brigade station has been declared open new era has begun for Londonderry Rural Fire Brigade with a new station declared open this week along with the handover of five trucks within the Cumberland zone. Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Stuart Ayres celebrated the opening of the new facility with Rural Fire Service (RFS) Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers, Liberal Candidate for Londonderry Bernard Bratusa and Federal Lindsay MP Fiona Scott. In addition to the station, five new fire trucks were added to the Cumberland zone covering brigades including Berkshire Park, Schofields and Mulgoa.

WW16160

“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring the safety of the Londonderry community by providing our firefighters with the best equipment and resources,” Mr Ayres said. NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers congratulated the Cumberland District volunteers, noting the additions would advance local firefighting efforts. “The NSW RFS is at the cutting edge of bush firefighting due to significant improvements in technology, training, equipment and communications, however the real strength of the Service is its people,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers said.

Xavier College LLANDILO OPEN NIGHT Tuesday 10th March Displays and Tours 5.00pm-6.00pm Information Session 6.00pm-6.30pm

Where we exceed our own expectations Ninth Avenue Llandilo Phone: 4777 0900

w w w. x a v i e r l l a n d i l o . c a t h o l i c . e d u . a u WW15741

17 the western weekender Âť Friday 27 February 2015

WW15755

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Never too late to chase dreams

Community

Vital funding continued, but future remains unclear More than $250,000 for Werrington Youth and Neighbourhood Services

Tara Ridge, teacher Bathma Chetty and Chloe Kay Richardson KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

A number of local people who thought that university was not an option for them, either because of their age or their lack of schooling, are now well and truly on their way to tertiary studies after completing their Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC) at TAFE Western Sydney. At the age of 33, St Clair resident Ruth Wong thought that university was out of the question for her, sure that her age would be a barrier. “But then after some thought and researching pathways for mature age students, I decided to apply for the Tertiary Preparation Certificate,” Ms Wong said. She completed the certificate, which provides participants with the skills and academic ability that are needed for university, in 2014 with a very impressive score and is now enrolled in an Advanced Science degree at the University of Western Sydney. She hopes to follow her passion for Ornithology, the study of birds, by focusing her studies in zooology. “TAFE is blessed with some amazing people who have dedicated themselves to helping others achieve their full potential. Through bouts of illness, family crisis and those days when the end is nowhere in sight, the teachers were understanding and, with a little nudging, they managed to set me on the right path again,” Ms Wong said. Like Ms Wong, Penrith resident Chloe Kay Richardson’s TPC result has seen her begin tertiary studies, this time completing a Bachelor of Journalism at Macleay College. She said that it was the support of the teachers that stood out to her. “All the work they give you will be challenging but overtly rewarding in the end, and through that you will not only gain confidence within yourself but also within the work you produce,” she said. This year TAFE Western Sydney is offering a combined TPC and Diploma of General Studies, which guarantees each student entry into Charles Sturt.

Bernard Bratusa and Gabrielle Upton speaking with community workers last week DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

iberal Candidate for Londonderry Bernard Bratusa met with Family and Community Services Minister Gabrielle Upton at Werrington Youth and Neighbourhood Services (WYNS) centre last week. The visit was organised to highlight the very important work the centre does in helping the community and confirm State Government funding commitments for service for the 2015/2016 financial year. Mr Bratusa announced $267,208 will be provided to the community group under the Community Builders program so the Werrington Community Project Incorporated can continue their services to vulnerable people and families. “WYNS continues to strengthen our local community by delivering social and recreational youth activities, referral services, learning groups and programs for seniors,” he said. Ms Upton said the government is building stronger communities by giving nongovernment organisations the resources needed. Chairperson for the Werrington Community Project Incorporated Jackie Holmes welcomed the funding commitment and said they hope to maintain and build on their services “If the funding continues for us that

“We have staff that are passionate about their work, it can only get better if we get the support we need”

means our services can continue to grow,” she said. “We have staff that are passionate about their work, it can only get better if we get the support we need.” Community Mobiliser Billy Beggs said the group tries to establish links with community members to support them in the adventures they want to pursue. “We run a great TAFE course here which is well attended, but unfortunately it’s had to be cut down since last year due to funding restrictions,” he said. Mrs Holmes said it was nice to have this year’s funding confirmed, but was still concerned over the future of the group amid revelations that funding is under review from June 2016. “[That amount of money] is what we get every year and we have for many years, and that’s going to stop and we are going to have to compete with Mission Australia, Anglicare and the Red Cross,” she said. “What we are doing here is wonderful work and we want to continue doing that but it is going to be very difficult with the funding changes that are going to occur.” Mr Bratusa explained that funding is under review across the board. “Family and Community Services is undertaking a strategic reform of the community, early intervention and intensive programs to improve outcomes for vulnerable children, young people, their families and the local communities,” he said.

OPEN NIGHT ON WEDNESDAY 11TH MARCH

CHOICE OF TWO TOURS: 1st tour 4pm – 6pm OR 2nd tour 6.30pm – 8.30pm General Information 6pm – 6.30pm

(Enrolment Applications for 2016 will be available at that time)

Tours of the College will also be conducted on Thursday 12th March and Friday 13th March between 11.00 am and 12.00 noon.”

Every aspect of the College meets the needs of students, giving them the best preparation for modern life in the 21st Century. We are committed to providing unique and enriching learning experiences for all students. Students and Parents at Emmaus experience: • a College with strong traditional values and high expectations of all its students • a place where prayer and sacrament are valued and nourished • a place where life-enhancing relationships are characterised by respect and authenticity • a learning environment of challenge, discovery and innovation, where each student is expected to personally excel • an exciting transition year in Year 7 • a broad choice of courses in Years 9 – 12 • advanced technology enriching the learning environment with extensive vocational courses and university and TAFE linked courses in Years 10 - 12 • a wide variety of sports played at a representative level and cultural opportunities including Visual Arts, Digital Photography, Dance, Drama, Mock Trial and Music recitals • a highly qualified and committed teaching staff • a community where personal responsibility and justice are valued and expected • a peaceful and beautiful rural environment Emmaus Catholic College is a Catholic, dynamic, learning community where parents, staff and families “Walk with Jesus”

87-109 Bakers Lane, Kemps Creek NSW 2178

For further details, application and prospectus, please contact Mrs Biermann or Mrs Schembri on 9670 4588 or visit www.emmaus.kempscreek.catholic.edu.au

WW16037

DOOR SALE

EVERYTHIN MUST GO! G

OVER 5,000 DOORS MUST CLEAR

Monday

2nd MARCH

to Monday

O DISCONTINUED LINES

RIOR INTEORS DO FROM$

FROM$

FROM

ONLY

O OFF SIZE DOORS

Single & 10 Lite Doors

Y ENTR S DOOR

9th MARCH

119

SOLID CORE DOOR S F

BI-FOL DOOR D S FROM

ROM

DAYS ONLY

O SECONDS

3 DOO BIFOL R D FROM

899

69 Limited Number Available

Bring your truck or trailer

First come...best choice

rra

tta

Mon 2nd March - Mon 9th March

t sS

Gra

nc e

ONLY

Ave

Fra

OPEN

9am - 5pm

lli Hi St

When they’re gone...they’re gone!!!

Sil

Hil lR

ate r

CASH OR CREDIT CARD ONLY

O RANGE OF LOCKS

Doors shown for illustration purpose only

ONE LOCATION ONLY

Unit 3

DISPOSAL 82 Parramatta Rd OUTLET

LIDCOMBE BEHIND RAY’S OUTDOOR

DPWW3-15

O HINGES from $3 O DOOR HANDLES from $5

WW16285

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

EMMAUS CATHOLIC COLLEGE

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Community

Housing project to help those in need Winning idea: The brilliant local plan to get thousands of young people off the streets KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

ustain Community Housing has big plans to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of people in the years to come; plans that have begun right here in the suburbs of Penrith, where the organisation was founded. The not-for-profit organisation, which will be providing sustainable community housing across the state and delivering homes to disability service providers, has acquired its first block of land and is less than a month away from beginning construction on their first homes. The organisation has purchased land in Colyton and will build six homes on that land. Four of those homes will be sold privately, with the profits going on to support future social housing projects, and the final two will be managed by a service provider that has partnered with the organisation. Sustain Community Housing is the brainchild of founder Josh Vrsaljko, who started the organisation with the idea to merge together his experience in property and development with his passion for supporting the less fortunate in the community.

“I get a huge amount of enjoyment out of helping people and that all stemmed from supporting Nordoff Robins. I’ve been involved in Nordoff Robins Music Therapy for five years now, through sponsorship. I see the good work that the money I give them does,” Mr Vrsaljko said. “When you give an organisation like this money and you see what good it does to the people they support, you want to do more.” For this reason, Sustain Community Housing is hoping to focus on developing land and building houses for use in the disability sector and in children’s services. “You look at statistics and see that there are 105,000 people on the street every night around Australia. 28,000 of them are under the age of 18 and 18,000 of them are under the age of 12. Every night there are 18,000 kids under 12 who are living on the street. For Sustain, it is all about trying to ease that long social housing wait list that is getting bigger,” Mr Vrsaljko said. The organisation has been built to be self sustaining, which means that it doesn’t rely on donations like a charity or funding from the government, however, investors from the private sector are needed if the organisation is going to continue to grow. Sustain Community Housing has already

Sustain Community Housing is the brainchild of Josh Vrsaljko received $2.1 million in impact investments, with $1.6 million of that coming from Social Ventures Australia and Social Enterprise Australia and the remaining $500,000 from private investors. “For us, 2015 is going to be a big year.

Once complete, this first development will allow us to go out and buy larger parcels of land to develop. We hope that our work will help to ease the 10 year wait for social housing and bring it right down,” Mr Vrsaljko said.

COUNCIL SNAPSHOT

I used to struggle ... but now school work’s FUN! Most tuition centres are franchises. The Tuition Place is independent and local. This gives you three important advantages: 1. Teaching methods and resources are tailored for the children of the Penrith area, not dictated by a franchisor from far away. 2. If you have special requirements, things can be adapted for you quickly. 3. The tuition is more aﬀordable, because a big chunk of what you pay doesn’t go straight to a franchisor.

Specialist Maths or English tuition for all ages.

Penrith Council is offering grants of up to $1000 to local community groups in the Penrith LGA wishing to host commemorative ANZAC events. The grant, as part of the 2015 ANZAC Centenary Mayoral Grants Program, will be available to community groups, schools and other educational institutions and non-profit organisations. The funding that is available now until April 18, assists projects and events which recognise the involvement, sacrifice and service of Australian servicemen and women in the First World War. To apply for funding, download an application form at www.penrithcity.nsw.gov. au. For further information, contact cdickson@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au. Penrith Council’s Draft Compliance and Enforcement Policy will be on public display for 30 days so the community can provide comments before the policy is finalised. Council has developed the policy to provide the community with information on Council’s position in relation to its compliance and enforcement and facilitate a consistent approach to enforcement activities in the city. The health and safety of the community and the protection of the environment is at the forefront of the policy development. It encourages “posi-

tive assistance of the community in reporting issues of concern” and “supports working collaboratively with the community to promote the benefits of compliance”. Councillor Kevin Crameri welcomed the policy and said he thinks it’s going to help Council in the future. St Marys Town Centre Corporation (SMTCC) has provided its 2013-14 Annual Operations Report, and 201415 Annual Business Plan to Council with an overall goal to revitalise the town centre. The reports outlined the corporation’s first full year of operation, including the setbacks experienced with the resignation of board members and without an operations manager. Despite the setbacks, the SMTCC conducted a range of activities throughout the year that were consistent with exploring opportunities to promote the town centre. Their business plan for the next 12 months includes further activities to promote St Marys and strengthen the identity of business in Queen St and surrounds, such as Easter, Halloween and Christmas events. They’ll conduct surveys to surrounding businesses, boost their social media presence and host network events with room to fine tune their approach after monitoring its effectiveness.

Celebrating ebrating Anzac 100th Anniversary y | HIGH STREET PENR PENRITH

Penrithh Penrith FESTIVAL ESTIVAL

Swing into Penrith

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PENRITH CBD CORP. CORP

AWAY! Y A D E H T E OOGI B – S E G A T 3S NT ALL DAY! ENTERTAINME GREETS AND B2 • MEET AND

D OF OZ SHOW • B1 RD WIZAR • IRON MAN D MRS POTATO HEAD ND MR AN THE ANZAC A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO • 0 :3 12 AT DE RA STREEEETT PA

ET STALLS K R A M & D FOO FUN! Y L I M IONEAFWAAYS... SO MUCH FUN H S A F OLDS, GAMES AND GIV D O O G FOR KID FT FREE CRA

PURCHA A POPPYSE

PURCHASE

poppyparLINE AT: k.org.au

VISIT WWW.PENRITHCBDCORP.COM.AU OR PHONE 4722 2 5556 FOR MORE INFO

activate U rejuvenate U populate

WW16189

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH 9-3PM

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

dear weekender... Dangerous intersection clarification I appreciate that with the NSW Election looming candidates are looking for local issues that may resonate with voters (Is this the local area’s most dangerous intersection, Western Weekender February 20). However, there were two inaccurate statements attributed to local retailers who support efforts by the Liberal Candidate for Londonderry to improve traffic conditions at the entry and exit points at Werrington County Shopping Centre. Firstly, a statement was made that the speed limit for the intersection area is 70km/h while in fact it has been 50km/h for many years. The second statement made referred to children crossing the four lanes to get to buses and calling for a crossing to be provided. There is in fact a pedestrian crossing with lights not far from the entry and exit to the shops. From my observations the problem in the area is drivers exceeding the 50km/h speed limit. Maybe the Liberal Candidate could ask his Parliamentary colleagues to install a speed camera or arrange more regular

police patrols as a means of avoiding accidents? BRAD LYNCH, VIA EMAIL

Bad drivers to blame I use it every day, there’s nothing wrong with it. People should learn how to drive properly and stop blaming inanimate objects for their lack of competency behind the wheel. DAVE SOWDEN, VIA FACEBOOK

Not happy with local Councillor Re the letter published in “Dear Weekender” on February 20 titled “Facts need to be known” by Councillor John Thain. If Councillor Thain was trying to state the FACTS, then he got it terribly wrong. The Community Centre to which he refers, is in fact a “Place of Worship” as designated by the Penrith City Council of which he is a Councillor. Councillor Thain also referred to this DA as a “Place of Worship” when he spoke in Council on the matter. Of greater concern however is the totally incorrect claim that “Council cannot legally refuse a development application”. That is farcical beyond belief. Hundreds

of Development Applications have been refused by Penrith Council over the years. As for Councillor Thain’s comments “that the applicants were from the group currently being persecuted by ISIS, ISIL and are unlikely to offer them any support”, that is bizarre and irrelevant. RICK PUTRA, GLENMORE PARK

We need to get tough With regard to young (so called) Australians going overseas to eagerly fight for Islamic State, and then return to Australia to wreak havoc on our peaceful way of life (funded by Centrelink) I find it extraordinary that whilst the more moderate Islamic members of our community don’t have any time for these cowardly curs, not one Imam or other Islamic leader comes out and states publicly that they are the lowest of the low. Also, why we allow these individuals to return to Australia is beyond belief. Cancel their citizenship or if they’re Australian-born let them languish in prison, after all isn’t treachery one of the most heinous of crimes? It once was! NEIL WILLIAMSON, VIA EMAIL

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

A-League referees We just need decent referees (Adam Peacock column, Western Weekender February 20). The standard this year has been sub par. Secondly, all too often the linesmen or women miss too many close calls. Balls out over the line. Handballs. Offside calls. It’s becoming a joke. If the current standard of refs is the best Australia has to offer I suggest hiring refs from overseas. Maybe then the standards will change. JADE MILLER, VIA FACEBOOK

NBN confusion I had been to the Telstra Shop in the Plaza in Penrith three times to try and get some information about just what I will be getting with the connection and received three different proposals. No one seems to know what is actually being done. I was also told that I had to get connected by a certain date. That is another false statement because the area I live in will not be turned off until next year, or is yet another statement that is or is not correct? No one seems to know. With the installation of the NBN equipment into your home some residents have ended

up with boxes stuck on walls in rooms where they did not want it, because they have been told that is where it has to go. It seems these installers only want to put it in the easiest place so that they can get more done in a day. One friend was told that they could not have a phone in the kitchen, where it has been for the last 20 years, because NBN phones can’t be anywhere near water. That is not true. We all thought this was going to be the bee’s knees, but it looks like it will end up being the horse’s arse. BRYAN CARTER, VIA EMAIL

Special thanks On Friday, February 13 I was with good friends at the St Marys Leagues Club when my best friend had a cardiac arrest and stopped breathing. Within seconds staff commenced heart massage and used a defibrillator in an effort to resuscitate him until Paramedics arrived. If it wasn’t for their outstanding efforts I would have lost a mate. Thank you, job well done KEN MURRAY, VIA WEBSITE

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

You wouldn’t keep your pet like this. But hidden away in sheds across Australia, hens who are just as smart and sensitive as the family pet spend every waking moment in a cage — all for the sake of a cheap egg. She cannot sit comfortably or stretch her wings. Without the ability to exercise, her body is weak. Chances are that she, or one of her cage mates, is living

How much does one

cage egg really cost?

with an untreated broken bone. But trapped in a cage, in a shed with thousands of cages, no-one is ever likely to notice. Here she will spend 30 long hours to produce just one cage egg. The first time she will see the outside world — the world she was meant to live in — will be on the last day of her life, as she is trucked to the slaughterhouse.

“THAT AIN’T NO WAY TO TREAT A LADY” MAKE CAGE EGGS HISTORY. AnimalsAustralia.org/ladies

WW16266

Community

State Government funding will help Men’s Shed members get to work in the local community KATHERINE TWEED

$12,846 NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grant had the blokes of Penrith Community Men’s Shed well and truly chuffed last week. Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres visited the Shed with Minister for Mental Health, Jai Rowell on Tuesday, February 18, to present the grant and to congratulate the men on the success of their newly formed Shed. “I think that Men’s Sheds do an amazing job in our community. I think it is fantastic that we’ve got blokes who are prepared to get together, get on the tools, get around each other and enjoy each other’s mateship and camaraderie – all of the things that are particularly important,” Mr Ayres said. “We know that one of the biggest challenges around men’s mental health is literally being able to talk to each other. Men’s Sheds play a really great role in building social networks and providing opportunities for men to keep interacting with each other. I am a big supporter of that so I put my money where my mouth is and backed up this grant application.”

Jai Rowell and Stuart Ayres present the cheque to Merv Adlington

@ktweed_

The group are going to use the grant to purchase safety equipment and woodworking tools so that they can continue to safely and efficiently complete more projects for the community . The group is in the process of completing a number of community projects, including building wooden chairs for a local school and helping to support the men of Governor Phillip Manor. “This is what the blokes want to do, they don’t want to sit around doing nothing. When I asked who wanted to work on community projects, hands went up across the room. They love to do it so that’s what we’re all about,” said Penrith Community Men’s Shed Chairman, Merv Adlington. “The community has been so good to us, so to be able to give back a little bit is a huge bonus as far as we are concerned.” Mr Rowell said that Men’s Sheds are a proven way of bringing men together to talk about critical issues. “As I travel around the state visiting Men’s Sheds I am constantly impressed at the extraordinary role they play in bringing men together to talk about any problems they may be facing and avoid the pitfalls of depression and social isolation,” Mr Rowell said.

Community

Tireless contribution celebrated 82-year-old Dorothy Grant has spent a lifetime helping others in the Penrith community DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

orothy Grant received a Community Service Award last week to recognise her tireless contribution to the Penrith community and Nepean Hospital. State Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres visited Mrs Grant at the Volunteer Shop at Nepean Hospital to present her award that is one of only two handed out a year. Mrs Grant said she volunteers because helping others brings her enjoyment and keeps her busy. “You get a lot of friendship. You don’t do it for what you get out of it,” she said. “It helps me too, with losing my husband, it’s given me something to fill my days. I’m very proud.” Mrs Grant has lived in Penrith her whole life, and has volunteered for a range of services including the CWA for 19 years, Edinglassie nursing home for nine years, and Nepean Hospital for 12 years. Mr Ayres said it’s people like Mrs Grant who are the heart and soul of the Penrith community. “They give up their own time to help others out,” he said. Mrs Grant, who will turn 83 in July, intends to continue volunteering as long as she can.

Volunteer Dorothy Grant with Stuart Ayres at Nepean Hospital

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

For these men, it’s more than a shed

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Over 30 stores to choose with all the leading $

FREE

40 VOUCHER WHEN YOU SPEND $100 OR MORE

Penrith Store only and on presentation of this coupon. Excludes electrical appliances, layby and custom made. OFFER ENDS 30/3/2015

GREAT DEAL COMO 4 PCE QUEEN SUITE

PYTON 5LT G9 HAL PDT CRYSTAL/CHR*

221

NOW ONLY

Was $369 (Double or Queen Bed Frame $549)

*Discount is off RRP only. Sale ends 15.3.15

1399 SPEND N SAVE SPEND $250 IN STORE AND RECEIVE

BAROCCA 3 SEATER SOFA

BUY 1, GET 1 FREE

50 OFF

THE PAIR

1299

AUSTRALIAN MADE SPAS FROM

4990

LOOP PILE CARPETS Call Call Carpet Call - The experts in the Trade

4pce QUEEN BLUEGUM TALLBOY SUITE

BENNET TEXTURED PLAIN EYELET CURTAIN

$ 1 COLOUR ONLY CONDITIONS APPLY

1599

from

In standard fabric

MAXI RIDER AHR EASY ADJUST

Ends 4/3/15 Conditions Apply

299 546

$ • Lite Smart TV • 3840 x 2160 Resolution

OUR BEST SELLER!

249

EA Was $299 ea

Easy adjust AHR head rest. Converts from a forward facing seat with in-built harness to a booster seat. 6 mths-6-8 yrs

SAVE $150

GERMAN KRONO ORIGINAL LAMINATE FLOORING from

$ Colours available

SAVE $100 25% OFF

Was $696

663254/42K32OUW

SAVE 50%

SAVE $$$

499

TALL SCROLL LEATHER DINING CHAIR

HISENSE 42” ULTRA HD LED LCD TV

RUBY 2 SEATER

Available in 5 colours

19 /m

30% off installation

Available in: Slate, Onyx, Bluestone

Offer ends 1st March 2015

EMPIRE CHAIR

499 Was $999

SAVE $500 Must bring a copy of the ad into the Penrith store. Not to be used in conjunction with any other store or promotion.

1400KG TROLLEY JACK

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

brands in ONE location SPEND MORE & SAVE MORE

SEAK CARVE KAYAK PACKAGE

Includes all full price & sale items

Was $478.99 SAVE $149.99

SAVE $35

329

Spend $150

Spend $300

SAVE 20%

SAVE 30%

30 OFF $90 OFF Offer ends 1st March 2015

PLUSH HUDSON MODULAR Featuring Astral Fabric in ‘Platinum’ (as shown)

FACTORY SECOND SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB 2 7”

Only

p3110saxsa

119

1749

BREVILLE THE JUICE FOUNTAIN COMPACT

NOW

17995

QB Was $399.95

SAVE UP TO $220 Offer ends: 18th March ‘15

RANGE NOW

CETAPHIL GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER OR MOISTURING LOTION

PRO PLAN 12KG-15KG SUPER PREMIUM DOG FOOD

1 Litre

99 14 $ 89 EA

SAVE 40%

Valid till 16th March 2015

SAVE FROM $28.10 TO $38.29

Was $1897 NOW

1499 5 Year Warranty *Conditions Apply

Offers Ends Sunday March 1

HOTEL ROYALE ‘LUXE’ 1000 THREAD COUNT COTTON SHEETS

APPLIANCE PACKAGE Oven : COV60SS7C Cooktop: GC604SCIF RangeHood: CRH60SO

Sales starts 27/2/2015 to 15/3/2015

WICKER PICNIC BASKET

169

DUETTO HOLLAND BLINDS 1000mm x 1000mm 1xSheer Fabric & 1xBlock Out Fabric Fabric in our Basic Range

340

Was $617.00

All above specials for a limited time only All above specials for a limited time only PATTY’S PL

Just off the M4 on Mulgoa Rd • OPEN 7 DAYS

G UL

RD WOLSELEY ST

www.penrithhomemakercentre.com.au WW15855

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Community

Offering a helping hand and a Heart Queen of Hearts supports western Sydney families affected by child sexual abuse DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

t’s an unfortunate truth that often the worst situations bring out the best in people, and that’s exactly what happened to Penrith mother Michelle Ellery three years ago. “We had a friend in our circle who was a pedophile; and I thought I was a very good judge of character,” Mrs Ellery revealed. “It’s one of those things you blame yourself so much for not noticing, not doing something about it. “It can take years to groom a child. They truly are a predator and they just blend into families.” Mrs Ellery lived with deep regret that she couldn’t protect the ones she loved, until she realised that struggling to get herself out of bed every morning was not the way to respond. “The fact that the children have spoken, I think that is incredible, and it gave hope that something positive might be able to come out of this,” she said. “As hard as it was, I decided that instead of hating, to put my energy to something a little more constructive.” Mrs Ellery started her own not-for-profit organisation, Queen of Hearts, that

Michelle Ellery is the driving force behind Queen of Hearts

supports western Sydney families who have been affected by child sexual abuse. Mrs Ellery quit her job to pursue the cause full-time. It is an issue that is sadly more common than many realise. “By Christmas Eve last year, we had 70 families go through the program, and this year alone, we’ve already had five come through,” she said. “There is such a big waiting time for services for this, so Queen of Hearts works with other organisations to take some of the overflow.” Queen of Hearts offers access to a weekly drop-in centre, court support to families, rescue packs with clothes and toiletries and transportation for affected families to and from court. Mrs Ellery is holding a fundraiser at the Tattersalls Hotel in Penrith on Saturday, March 14, to raise awareness of the program, and funding for a different court vehicle. “A lot of the perpetrators are out on bail, so an organisation car would be best so they can’t trace my personal car back to me,” Mrs Ellery said. If you know of anyone who is suffering, or wish to know more about the fundraiser contact Queen of Hearts on 1300 856 737.

Cash loans up to $2,000*

COME IN TO WIN A $1,000 VISA CARD

* Terms & conditions apply. Australian Credit License: 390417

Formerly

www.okmoney.com.au

8678 2767

152 Queen Street ST MARYS 2760

WW15466

Don’t put up with cracked floors, walls, pavement or driveways any longer!

For your chance to win a $1,000 Visa prepaid card, simply take out or renew a Motor, Home or CTP Green Slip policy at NRMA Penrith before 11/04/2015. Then complete an entry form and drop it in branch. Opening hrs: Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 9-5. Wed 10-5. Sat 9-12.

www.resinect.com.au

NRMA Penrith at Westﬁeld Penrith, Shop 130-132, 585 High Street

WW15874

Resinject relevel and re-support sunken homes, factories, warehouse, airports, seaports, railways and other construction by improving the structure of the ground. We lift and relevel concrete slabs as well as fill voids in the underlying soil strata.

Call today to receive a FREE assessemnt! Ph:

0408 489 245

Things you should know: Competition conditions of entry apply and are available from NRMA Penrith. NSW Permit number LTPM/14/00652. If a product is right for you, always read the Product Disclosure Statement from the product issuer, Insurance Australia Limited trading as NRMA Insurance. WW15710

Event

Big Blue Bash to spread the word about depression and anxiety in Penrith this weekend KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

n a bid to support the community that has supported them in so many ways, Penrith Community Men’s Shed are holding a Big Blue Bash this weekend to spread the word about depression. The event, to be held on Saturday, February 28, is to raise awareness of beyondblue, which is an organisation that runs a 24/7 support service for people living with depression and anxiety. “The Bash is to raise awareness about depression, anxiety and suicide. The figures are fairly high and it wasn’t until we started the Men’s Shed that we realised what is really at stake here,” said Penrith Community Men’s Shed Chairman, Merv Adlington. Mr Adlington said that one in six Australians are living with depression, anxiety or both. “We have a gentleman coming out who has suffered depression and he is going to talk about his story, how he got through it and how there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” Mr Adlington said. “A few of the blokes, myself included, have suffered depression to varying degrees. We thought it would be good for

Men’s Shed members Arthur Heterick, Derrick Culgan and Stephen Gilfillan

them, for their families and also we want to support the wider Penrith community because it’s not just these blokes and their families that are suffering, there are a fair few out there.” The event will also be about helping people to identify the signs of depression in themselves and in loved ones. “It is a good way of educating our blokes and they can have the chance to chat to the speaker afterwards. It is also good for us to realise that if we have someone in our family who is suffering, there are ways that we can help them,” Mr Adlington said. “Originally the event was going to be for the Men’s Shed members but we realised that it is just too big an issue to not invite the community along.” Penrith Community Men’s Shed Big Blue Bash is taking place from 7pm on Saturday, February 28 and all community members are invited to attend. The Men’s Shed members are asking that those who attend bring a gold coin donation to raise some funds for the work of beyondblue. For more information contact Penrith Community Men’s Shed on 0439 646 942 or email them at theshed@penrithbaptist. org.

WW16265

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Blokes, this is no longer a silent issue

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Health

Business

New technology helps diagnose health problems in babies

Hop on board for advice: Small Biz Bus to visit South Penrith KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

he Small Biz Bus has been helping local businesses grow and experience success for some time and with a visit to Penrith booked for Tuesday, March 10 more local businesses are set to benefit. The bus will be parked at Southlands Shopping Centre from 9am to 3pm on the day to give local small businesses access to free, personalised advice from business experts. Executive Officer of the Penrith Valley Business Enterprise Centre (BEC), John Todd, said that he is excited that the bus will be visiting South Penrith. “The bus provides an excellent opportunity for local businesses to jump on board and connect with their local business advisor,” he said. “Businesses can seek specific advice on running or establishing their business or come and bounce some new ideas around with an advisor.” Small Biz Connect Advisors on the bus are able to assist small business owners who have questions about a range of topics, including finances, staffing, expansion plans and can even offer advice to residents hoping to start a business. “Speaking to one of our advisors can

Sonographer Brendan Mein shows off the new technology. Photo: Melinda Jane KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

iagnosing health problems in babies while they are still inside the womb is a challenge faced daily by Nepean Hospital’s Perinatal Ultrasound Department. That challenge just got a little easier, however, with the acquisition of two state-of-the-art ultrasound machines that offer the latest in 3D and 4D imaging. The new E10 machines, the first to be used by a hospital in New South Wales, will allow health professionals to get a clearer image of antenatal babies and will

therefore allow them to better identify and diagnose possible health problems. Nepean Hospital’s Perinatal Ultrasound Department Chief Sonographer, Brendan Mein, with the help of an expectant mum, showed the Weekender exactly how clear the images can get. “These new E10 machines are a great achievement for the department as it means we will be able to provide our patients with better images of their babies and improve our diagnostic abilities,” Mr Mein said. The two machines cost $200,000 each and were funded through a private trust fund.

The Small Biz Bus is coming to Penrith help you take the next step, whether you’re just starting out, wanting to ensure your business is sustainable or hoping to grow,” said NSW Small Business Commissioner, Robyn Hobbs. To book an appointment on the bus or to speak to a local Small Biz Connect adviser, call Penrith Valley BEC on 1300 134 359 or visit www.smallbusiness.nsw. gov.au/hop-on-the-small-biz-bus.

CARWASH EXPRESS WASH

DELUX WASH

Outside Wash, Chamois Dry & Tyre Shine

Outside Wash & Wax, Chamois Dry, Interior Vacuum, Dash Board Wipe, Window Clean, Door Jams, Tyre Shine & Air Freshener

Sedan: $20 SUV: $25 4WD: $30

Sedan: $38 SUV: $43 4WD: $48

LOCAL RADIO

02 4727 4500

121 Cox Ave, Kingswood

www. greenandgoldcarwash .com.au

WW15905

LEURA FIRST SUNDAY MARKETS Sunday 1st March 2015 9am-2pm Live Music

Gr e

In the grounds of Leura Public School

ily! ll at d m a A r f ay out for all the he Weat ket Great e c a F Mar Over Food g Stalls 80 Paintin Stalls

Enquiries: Di 0432 021 863 leura-markets@hotmail.com

WW16278

www.leurafirstsundaymarkets.com www.facebook.com/leurafirstsundaymarkets

WW15652

29 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

A beautifully landscaped boutique cemetery, serving all denominations in western Sydney.

The Kemps Creek Cemetery & Crematorium has sites available for purchase ahead of time and also at time of need. Contact our office to secure your preferred site in one of our new lawns. Conveniently located only 15 minutes’ drive from Liverpool, Penrith, Fairfield and Blacktown. Offers a natural landscape with tranquil lake views surrounded by native bushland. There are lawn graves, plaque lawn graves and cremation gardens available. Has Sydney’s first natural burial park, with no formal headstones or monuments. Graves are unmarked and GPS technology is used to accurately record locations for future visits.

Kemps Creek Cemetery offers a peaceful rural alternative to built up cemeteries and has Sydney’s most affordable burial and cremation options for everyone in the community.

New ofﬁce open Monday to Friday 8.30am-4.00pm Call P: 9826 2273 to make an appointment WW16116

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Competition

Penrith RSL Fishing Club

Master shares his tips eauty is not something that is restricted by age; a key message that Australian makeup master, Napoleon Perdis wants to share with the women of Australia. In Sydney, the beauty expert is teaching an exclusive makeup workshop at David Jones Elizabeth Street on Thursday, March 5. There, accompanied by his mother, Liana, and wife, Soula-Marie, Napoleon will celebrate timeless beauty by demonstrating that having everlasting elegance is a simple feat, with the right products. Napoleon is inviting women of all ages to attend, as he’ll be sharing his makeup tips and tricks for having a fresh, youthful look around the clock, no matter what age you are. Tickets to the event are $299 and can be purchased from the David Jones website at www.davidjones.com.au. All who attend receive a free four-piece welcome gift valued at $100. For local residents, the event will be well worth the trip into the city. To celebrate the special event, The Western Weekender has one Napoleon Perdis prize pack, valued at $158, to give away. The pack includes some of Napoleon’s makeup essentials for everlasting elegance, including Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Skin Primer, Napoleon Perdis Ultimate Contour Palette and Napoleon Perdis MagnifEyes Mascara. For your chance to win, email the code word “Napoleon” to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with your name, address and phone number. Entries close on Wednesday, March 4.

B • Charter boat out of Wollongong Twice a month • Yearly Christmas BBQ every year • Point scoring competition • Join at the Penrith RSL ﬁshing club meetings at Penrith RSL on the ﬁrst Wednesday of every month • Fishing club membership on $10

Napoleon Perdis This competition is authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/15/00066. For terms and conditions, visit www. westernweekender.com.au or pop in to see the team at the Western Weekender office.

Dose of Dorin

Join Now and get hooked WW16295

Penrith RSL Fishing club Contact the club Secretary- Rod on 0437 501 114

WW10330

HISTORY

A true icon in the centre of Penrith The St Nicholas of Myra Church in Penrith has been a part of our lives since 1835, as journalist NATHAN TAYLOR discovered...

The St Nicholas of Myra Church back in 1966. Photo: St Nicholas of Myra

T SPECIALISING IN

he St Nicholas of Myra Church, located in High Street in the heart of Penrith’s CBD, has been home to the area’s local Catholic community for more than 175 years. The church has been a part of people’s lives through weddings, baptisms and funerals, but its humble beginnings date all the way back to 1835 when Reverend James Vincent Corcoran was appointed the first priest at Windsor which, at the time, included Penrith as part of his parish. Two years later in 1837, Reverend Corcoran was tragically killed in a road accident and Archbishop Bede Polding appointed Reverend John Brady as his successor. In 1838, Fr Brady judged it opportune to erect a small chapel in the growing settlement of Penrith, which then saw John Tindale of Honeswood farm give a block of land to Archbishop Polding, near the centre of the settlement. The foundation stone of the first St Nicholas of Myra Church was laid by Archbishop Polding on December 9, 1839, and

the first priest in Penrith was announced as Reverend Charles Sumner. A few days after the laying of the foundation stone a small cemetery was consecrated by Archbishop Polding in which three of Penrith’s pioneering priests (Fr Michael Brennan d.1864, Fr Patrick O’Mahony d.1885 and Fr John Grady d.1984) would later be buried. On November 13, 1850, the first St Nicholas of Myra Church was consecrated by Archbishop Polding, with funds to construct the church donated by local Catholic parishioners as well as from many other faiths and denominations. Over the next century the St Nicholas of Myra Church went through a number of minor improvements as the Catholic community in Penrith continued to grow. But it wasn’t until the mid 1960’s that the church went through its most dramatic change yet, when a brand new church was built on the site. On February 14, 1966, the original St Nicholas of Myra Church was torn down to make way for the new larger structure, which took one year to build. The architect of the new church, Brian

BEER BREWING  ................................................................... DISTILLING  ................................................................... CIDER AND SOFT DRINKS  ................................................................... CHEESE MAKING  ................................................................... YOGHURT AND KEFIR  ................................................................... TOFU  ................................................................... SAUSAGES SMOKING CURING  ................................................................... COFFEE ROASTING  ................................................................... FOOD PRESERVING  ................................................................... AUSTRALIAN NATIVE FOODS  ................................................................... CHOCOLATE MAKING  ................................................................... WINE AND MEAD MAKING  ...................................................................

Curtin, wanted a contemporary design that ensured an increased capacity for the growing population of the greater Penrith area. It is estimated at the time to have cost $130,000 to build. On February 23, 1967, the Catholic Weekly reported that the new St Nicholas of Myra Church “had been designed as an attempt to satisfy the difficult and apparently hard to understand ‘Reform to the Liturgy’”. “Father John Grady, the parish priest, gave the opportunity to architects to interpret, in simple form, the changes set by the theologians,” the report said. On April 30, 1967, the new St Nicholas of Myra Church was blessed by Cardinal Norman Thomas Gilroy and officially opened to the public. The newly-opened church had some interesting historical elements included in its design, which are still present to this day. They include the church fence, which was built from sandstone taken from the original church; the front entrance stained glass windows, which were donated in the memory of Anne and Patrick Heaton; the Tabernacle, which was incorporated from the old church into the new church; and the 1800’s lamp post, which still stands proudly outside the church as symbol of hope. In the mid 1980’s and early 90’s, under the guidance of Fr Geoff Dickinson, the church underwent major renovations which saw the aisles widened to allow for easier movement during communion and a new baptismal font installed to blend in with the new alter furniture. The original baptismal font was subsequently moved back into the foyer of the church and now holds the Holy Water used to bless oneself upon entering and exiting the premises. Three much needed air coolers were also installed and the original stone alter was replaced with a smaller, portable wooden alter. In 2002, under the direction of Fr Wim Hoekstra, the decision was made to beautify the front area of the church grounds to provide a place of rest and contemplation for the busy people of Penrith. In 2004, the church received a much needed repainting, with the interior brickwork being retouched to remove stains after a number of fires ripped through the air conditioning units in the mid 90’s. In 2014, local parishioners celebrated the church’s 175th anniversary.

more than just homebrew • Cheese Kits • Beer Making Kits • Jerky Making Kits • Smoker Boxes

• Bacon Kits • Spirit and Liqueur Essences • Chocolate Making Kits WW16254

PH: 02 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Hwy Kingswood

www.countrybrewer.com.au

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Turning back Time

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

SPONSORED CONTENT

The secret is out: Best coffee in Penrith

Waffle Co

Gaymark Lane, Penrith 0410 628 426 www.facebook.com/waffleco

he best coffee in town can be found at a location not known by many, in a hidden gem that sells nothing but coffee, waffles and a few other treats. Waffle Co, located on a small lane way off Henry Street, truly is a diamond in the rough that sees a small trickle of regular loyal clients throughout the day, each one leaving the quaint, homely cafe feeling like they are in on the best secret in all of Penrith. The cafe is home to a team of warm, passionate baristas who can cook a mean waffle, serve up a coffee made with expertise and offer their opinion on the best flavour of gourmet ice cream that happens to be in store on the day. “Our team is made up of a group of extremely passionate people, including Brooke, Ana, Bonnie, Alesha and Naomi, who love what they do and do it because they love it. As a result, our coffee is voted the ‘best coffee in Penrith’ on Bean Hunter,” said owner, Nathan Turner. While still doing what they do

best – coffee and waffles – the team are experimenting with gluten free and vegan products. “We want to keep every one of our loyal customers happy and to do that, we have expanded our limited menu to include other options,” the crew said. “We are passionate about providing the community with the best coffee, waffles and sweets and we know that we have the means to satisfy even the toughest critic.” Waffle Co is small, as far as cafes go, and according to the team, it is its size that makes the difference when it comes to the atmosphere. “We love our cafe and its interior because it makes our customers’ experience here a little more personal. It’s this great atmosphere and the quality of our product that keeps our customers coming back,” Mr Turner said. Waffle Co is open from 8am to 4pm on Monday to Friday and from 9am to 1pm on Saturday and can be found on Gaymark Lane, off Henry Street. Give it a go, you won’t regret it and you’ll be back again!

waffle co. Gaymark Lane, Penrith (off Henry Street)

0410 628 426 WW16240

BUSINESS TIPS Sometimes there’s clients you should avoid

Details matter when it comes to your business image

Michelle Grice // Founder of Shel Design

Michael Todd // Small Biz Connect Advisor Penrith Valley BEC

ike most people who start up a service based business, the clients in my first year or two varied widely. Primarily because I was happy for any work I could get! But over time, I realised that in order to build my business, and build a positive reputation, I needed to be more selective. The first type of client I very quickly learnt to avoid was the type who seemed to have cash flow problems or who were reluctant to sign a contract. These clients quite often become non-payers. Although there are legal avenues to pursue when someone doesn’t pay you, it is a long drawn out process and quite stressful. Having clear policies or conditions for payment is essential – and sticking to those policies yourself is vital! Another type of client which can be harder to identify, is the type who takes advantage of your good nature. Some clients will try to change agreements, ask for ‘freebies’ or generally disrespect your time. These clients are best dealt with by politely and clearly re-stating the agreed

terms. And if they continue to abuse those terms, you have the choice to ‘fire’ them (again, in a polite manner!). A third client type to avoid is the unreliable one. In many service based businesses, there is a great deal of partnership and working together. For example, I can’t create a website without my client supplying the content and I can’t continue to progress the project without timely feedback. Ideally, a contract with clients should include timed deliverables. Where this is not feasible, communicating with the client that an additional fee will be payable if they don’t supply or respond within a reasonable time period can often get the ball rolling again! While flexibility and generosity with your clients is paramount, you need to ensure you balance that with realistic expectations so that your business isn’t negatively impacted. Have you had experience with a client you wish you had avoided? I’m keen to hear from you. Email news@ westernweekender.com.au.

n the world of business, what you wear shapes the public’s perception of you and the business you represent. To get business you need to project an image that attracts potential customers and clients, rather than repels them. I am a firm believer that looking the part is essential to business survival. Yes, things like delivering what you promise, good customer service and value for money are important to any business success and survival, but if you look the part your job becomes easier. If you have a good corporate image, you will inject your customers with confidence in both yourself and your products. If you look a bit rough around the edges, your potential customers may start the relationship with doubts about your business’ ability to produce results. You don’t see successful real estate agents driving old dirty cars. Looking successful is necessary to be successful. On first meeting or viewing, people tend to take other people at face value and figure that what they see is what they’ll get. Looking the part can mean many things, here is a list:

• Good, professional stationery (letterheads and business cards) • Clean, professional-looking work space (office, factory or showroom) • Quality signage • Good company vehicles, with signage • Staff uniforms • Neatly groomed staff • Well-trained staff (courteous on the phone) • A professional or nice looking website Some of the above may not be relevant to you. If you work from home, you may not have customers coming to you. However, don’t confuse being a small one-person business with not needing to have a good corporate image. Details matter when it comes to your business image. Your potential customers will see and observe not just you, but your vehicle, your equipment, and your surroundings, and note their condition. What is detracting from your business image and repelling your potential customers? Another point to remember is that it is no longer a huge difference in cost to print cheap business cards as it does to print smart, professional looking cards.

TUITION THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE • Most School Subjects • Pre-school to Adult

Set the foundation for educational success! 4 Week Money Back Guarantee, Term Reports and Free Diagnostic

Enrolling NOW!

Call us for your child’s educational needs Most school subjects and university/TAFE too! SILVER

www.mastercoachingpenrith.com.au

Phone: 4722 3072 WW15997

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Australian A ustralian W Women omen & C Children’s hildren’s R Research esearrcch F Foundation oundati tion

YOUR Y OUR INVITATION INVITATION T TO O JOIN JOIN US US AT AT THE THE

Heroes and Villains Charity Ball Satu Saturday, turd tu rdday day, 16 6tthh May ay y 2015 Chairman’s Lounge, Sportingbet Stadium Penrith Hosted by Tara Dennis, Entertainment by Brittanie Shipway, The Veritable String Trio & DJ

~ 7pm Pre-Dinner Drinks, 7:30pm start ~ Tickets: $120 each or $1,100 for a table of 10 Includes Pre-Dinner Drinks and 3 course meal Corporate Table Sponsorship $1,200

Come C ome dressed dressed aass y your our ffavourite avouri rite Hero Hero or or Villain Villain

Bookings: www.ozwac.com.au or (02) 4734-3205 WW16277

ARTS/CONCERTS/TV/CROSSWORD/SUDOKU

FEATURE

The haters don’t matter KATE REID @kate_reid6

henever Nickelback is mentioned in the media you know that the subject of hate is bound to come up. After all, how can it not? It’s the big musical elephant in the room. There’s no way to ignore it; people hate Nickelback. The irony of it all is that for a band who attracts so much ridicule they sure do sell a hell of a lot of albums, which may be part of the reason why band members, including lead guitarist and backing vocalist Ryan Peake, don’t let comments from haters get to them. “I don’t think we’ve ever been striving to be one of the more polarising bands,” he said. “That’s never been a thing we’ve set our sights on. But it is what it is and you just wear some thick skin and some people

are gonna like you and some people aren’t gonna like you and it doesn’t really bother me.” While the reaction from music critics has always been luke warm, Nickelback has managed to make album sales in excess of 50 million, earning them the title of the most commercially successful Canadian group in history. Their most recent album, 2014’s ‘No Fixed Address’, saw the band take on a slightly different musical direction, including an unexpected collaboration with American rapper Flo Rida. “People are thinking we’re stretching our legs a little more with this album, which I kind of feel we were as well,” he said. “There’s some avenues we’ve taken on this that we haven’t touched before and I’m pretty happy about that. “I think it’s one of our better albums that we’ve made so I hope our fans feel the same.” With this album Ryan feels they’ve managed to find a good balance between

“I don’t think we’ve ever been striving to be one of the more polarising bands”

giving fans something new, without completely alienating them. “You don’t want to completely take such a left turn that you’re going to confuse all of your fans,” he laughed, “which some bands have done”. “But I don’t think we’re confusing anybody. “We’ve got some hard rock songs on here and we’ve got some melodic things as well and the Flo Rida thing was really an after thought. It happened really organically, nothing was really premeditated at all.” When it comes to testing out their new material Ryan has a couple of close family members that he trusts to give honest, constructive feedback. “My wife’s got a really good honest ear about what we do, and my brother as well,” he said. “So I usually send those guys a copy and go ‘are we on the right track, what do you think?’ “Nine times out of 10 we get pretty decent scores from them but there’s the odd time where they’re like ‘I think you guys are missing the mark here’, but they’ll tell you why. “I like that because with any kind of creative job sometimes you get caught up in your own thing and not see the forest for the trees, so to speak, so it’s nice to have those soundboards for sure.” As guitarist of the band Ryan is in the perfect position to have all the perks of a rock star life without having to deal with the recognition and media scrutiny that comes with the role of front man. “Personally I fly under the radar a lot more than [lead vocalist] Chad does,” he said. “I’m able to play in this band and make this music and be able to tour everywhere and still can kind of go out to a movie or go out shopping or do whatever you’ve gotta do and not get recognised.” With popularity comes covers and Nickelback is certainly not immune to this phenomenon. The most well known of these would have to be the piano ballad rendition of ‘How You Remind Me’ by Chad Kroeger’s wife and ex-skater girl Avril Lavigne. When discussing the idea of people taking on the band’s songs, Ryan’s self deprecating response shows that the Nickelback guys are very much in on the hate joke. “Ultimately I think it’s very brave of them,” he laughed. “Cause they’re like ‘listen, here’s my plan to either keep my stardom going or to start my plan, I’m going to do a Nickelback song’. “‘Terrible idea! What are you thinking?! It’s career suicide!’ So if anybody tries it they’re very brave and good on ‘em,” he laughed. Nickelback will be performing at Allphones Arena on Friday, May 22. Tickets start from $101.85. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.ticketek.com.au. The Weekender has a double pass to see Nickelback to give away. For your chance to win, email the code word ‘NICKELBACK’ to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with your name and contact details. Entries close Wednesday, March 4. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/15/00066. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

ENTERTAINMENT

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

A seminar for current and ex-serving men and women of the Australian Defence Force and their families. Information sessions, stalls and children’s entertainment will be available on the day. Sorry no child minding.

DefenceCare is a charity and not-forproﬁt organisation helping current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force and their families in times of injury, illness or crisis.

You’re welcome to come along for all or part of the day. Snacks, meals and drinks are available for purchase on Level 1. Please visit www.penrithrsl.com.au for dress regulations.

WW15359

$17,000 MUST BE HERE TO WIN!

If Jackpot is won on Friday evening, Sunday draw will be at $10,000. If not won on Friday, $16,000 will be the prize for Sunday

DRAWN SUNDAY 5pm, 6pm, 7pm & 8pm

DRAWN FRIDAY 6pm, 7pm, 8pm & 9pm

*Terms & Conditions apply. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPS/14/09512.

LIVE IN THE CASTLE LOUNGE

8PM EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT

FREE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY 8PM

BE-BOP-A-LULA BAND

SATURDAY 2PM GREG POPPLETON

FREE BINGO*

SATURDAY 9PM

MON/TUE/WED 11am & 7pm FRI 11am

SUNDAY 2PM

*MEMBERS 1ST BOOK FREE. EXTRA BOOKS $1. VISITORS $4

THE NEVILLES

THE SHUFFLE BOYS

8 Tindale St Penrith | 4728 5200 www.penrithrsl.com.au

WW15353

EVENT

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Shakespeare twist for Host a Murder event KATE REID

Joan concert series

he Joan’s much loved recital series is back and it looks like 2015 is going to be another year jam packed full of amazing performances. One of Australia’s most renowned pianists, Simon Tedeschi, will kick off the series as he explores the music of Gershwin on Saturday, March 7. This talented musician will take on all the Gershwin favourites including ‘Rhapsody in Blue’, ‘S Wonderful’ and ‘Summertime’. In May, The Joan will take on a Latin flavour with ‘From Tango to Mambo – Latin American Music for Two Pianos’. Acclaimed young pianist Zubin Kanga and Latin American music specialist Daniel Rojas will give audiences a night of rhythm, passion and colour. July will bring engaging performer Piers Lane to the stage with music from

some of the greats of classical piano music, including Mozart, Chopin and Beethoven. The series will be rounded out with a stunning display of piano music. In October six grand pianos will be brought to life by some of Australia’s finest pianists including Stephanie McCallum, Ian Munro, Clemens Leske, Gabriella Smart, Tamara Cislowska, and Neal Peres Da Costa. Each concert will be followed by a post show reception that will give audiences the chance to enjoy complimentary wine, cheese and crackers while having the opportunity to meet these talented artists. For more information on The Joan’s 2015 Richard Bonynge Piano Series, visit www.thejoan.com.au. Tickets for each performance range from $30-$55. To book call 4723 7600.

f you’re after a celebration with a twist then head to the launch of Host a Murder at King Henry’s Court on Sunday, March 8. This murder mystery game will have a Shakespeare theme and is titled ‘The Maiming of The Shrew’. Attendees will be invited to dine with William Sheepspear and his wife Katheter de Vane at the Glib Theatre on the 12th night before Christmas. Each person will be given a Shakespearian character to play for the afternoon as they try to figure out which one of the suspects is guilty of murder. With characters that include Lady MacDeth, Gridlock the Merchant of Tennis and Mary Queen of Schnapps it’s clear that this event is going to be a whole lot of fun. Set in an old church, King Henry’s Court provides the perfect atmosphere for this intriguing game of who done it. Bookings must be made by Thursday, March 5 so get in quick for this afternoon of mystery and fun! If you’re a veteran of Host a Murder events, you’ll love this fun new twist at an iconic Penrith venue. If you’ve never participated before,

you’re in for some real fun with lots of surprises in store. ‘The Maiming of The Shrew’ Host A Murder will be on at King Henry’s Court on Sunday, March 8 from 3.30pm to 6.30pm. The game will be played over high tea and the cost is $65 per person. For more information call Peter on 0402 299 956 or visit www.hostamurder.com. au.

Host a Murder The finest dining experience you’ll ever have!

An original dining experience where each guest takes on the role on a unique character and the challenge is to figure out

WHO MURDERED THE HOST!

Book your function with a twist Perfect for any special occassion Fun & Friendly atmosphere

$55 per person Sunday 8th March, 4pm Bookings Essential

WW16297

74 Henry Street, Penrith P: 4721 1155 www.kinghenryscourt.com.au

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

LIVE MUSIC

Music for all KATE REID @kate_reid6

oundproofed have certainly made a name for themselves on the local music scene. The pop and rock anthems party band have been entertaining audiences since 2008 with their repertoire that covers everything from the 80’s to current hits. Come Friday, February 27 Soundproofed will be bringing the house down once again when they play a free show at the Colonial Hotel. Speaking to frontwoman Lo, who does a killer rendition of Adele’s ‘Rolling In The Deep’, it’s clear the band love playing local venues. “Our guitarist is a local boy and has grown up in the area. The music scene has always been great in Penrith, live music always gets support from the Penrith punters,” she said. No matter what age you are or what music style you enjoy there’s plenty to love about Soundproofed, who play everything from ‘I’m A Believer’ through to tracks from current stars like Sia and David Guetta.

Proud Sponsor

Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS

Bunker Bistro, Weekly raffles, Bingo, Members Badge Draws, Golf, plus much more! 13 Park Road, Wallacia NSW 2745 +61 2 4773 8417 wallacia@panthers.com.au wallacia.panthers.com.au

WW16300

a t e w

It is all about great coffee

Friendly service

FRE WIF E I

Cake & coffee special

OPEN 7 DAYS 7am - 5.30pm • Thurs till 9pm

Shop 8, Westfield Penrith Plaza Penrith 4721 8142 (opp The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre)

WW15899

Ê Channel Nine has been announced as official broadcaster of football’s International Champions Cup, taking place in Australia this July. Nine will broadcast live games between Real Madrid, Manchester City and AS Roma as well as both the Liverpool FC matches against A-League teams Brisbane Roar and Adelaide United. Ê ‘Modern Family’ has this week in the US aired an episode shot entirely on iPhones and iPads. The episode titled ‘Connection Lost’ begins on the laptop screen of Claire Dunphy, who sits in an airport waiting for her flight. It becomes apparent very quickly that she is struggling to find her daughter Haley after a fight. Before long, the screen is filled with text messages, emails and FaceTime video chats with the rest of the family. Sounds cool! Ê Australia Post has released limited edition stamps marking the 30th anniversary of ‘Neighbours’. The stamps, which feature characters Susan Kennedy, Toadfish and Harold Bishop, are available at participating post offices, via mail order or online. Ê

ABC’s ‘Lateline’ is returning with a fresh new format

on Monday, March 9 to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Hosted by Emma Alberici and Tony Jones, ‘Lateline’ will air on ABC News 24 at 9.30pm and again on ABC TV at 10.30pm. It’s set to feature interviews, stories and investigations, with less of its news bulletin element.

Ê Donald Trump’s ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’ has been renewed for a 15th season. The latest series just wrapped in the US but still has a few weeks to go here on Arena. ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’ is one of my alltime favourite reality shows, it’s done so well every time. Ê The Comedy Channel will air the 40th anniversary episode of ‘Saturday Night Live’ this Saturday, February 28 at 7.30pm. The three hour episode, which went to air to rave reviews in the US last week, features special guests, music superstars and the return of cast regulars. Some of the huge talent to feature includes Jimmy Fallon, Will Ferrell, Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Justin Timberlake, Tom Hanks, Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Carrey, Paul McCartney, Kanye West and Taylor Swift. Ê Sonia Kruger will co-host ‘The Voice’ this year alongside Darren McMullen.

39 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

ST MARYS

BISTRO

KARAOKE

Come C ome iin n aand nd ttry ry our

Every Sunday from 4pm

Bistro

Specials AAuthentic uthentic IItalian talian & M Modern odern Australian including seasonal salads, pasta & char grilled Graziers steaks

> Starts

n ON SCree

Ph: 02 9330 3939

Tuesday 3rd March from 5pm

“Welcome to the Show”

465 Great Western Hwy St Marys 2760

WW15 WW15774 W15774 774 74 4

UFC FIGHT NIGHT www.wagonwheelstmarys.com.au

POOL COMP

GREAT PRIZE GIVEAWAYS

15th March 2015 LIVE Sundayfrom 11am

Every Friday Night > 9pm to 1am

Come down for a great afternoon of Karaoke entertainment.

>7 DAYS A WEEK

LIVE BANDS

facebook.com/wagonwheelstmarys

WW16257

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

PEGASUS COACH TOURS 2015 ALASKA SAWYER GLACIER CRUISE

PORT STEPHENS

18 Day Tour/Cruise

Departing 28 March 2015

Departing 19 August 2015 Tour Highlights Discover Seattle, Tour the largest airplane manufacturer in the world- Boeing, Cruise for 7 nights through the natural wonders of Alaska, Immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring landscapes, Visit the small resort town of Banff and stroll along the National Parks’ picturesque lakes, Sample wine at the world-famous wine country of Okanagan Valley, Cruise with Jewel of the Seas

2 Day All Inclusive Tour Famous Newcastle Tram, Newcastle Maritime Museum, Twilight Cruise, Port Stephens, Tomago House

$325.00ppts $55.00 Single Supplement

$7,795.00ppts

MOREE SPA CAPITAL SUPER SPECIAL

Price includes door to door pick up from Sydney metro area

7 Days/6 Nights

YARRA RANGES AND BEYOND

Artesian swimming pool Dragon Phoenix Motel & Restaurant

7 Day All Inclusive Tour

$899.00 PPTS

Lightning Ridge, Inverell, Goondiwindi, Moree,

Departing 24 May 2015 Cooma Cottage, Mansfield, Highton Manor, Kerrisdale Mountain Railway Museum, King Parrott Valley, Lilydale, Healesville Sanctuary, Big Bouquet, Lake Eildon, Marysville, Bruno’s Art Sculpture, Alexandra Timber Tramway, Toolangi Forest, Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk, Warrantina Lavender Farm, DE Bortoli Benalla, The Stockyard.

$1,285.00ppts $302.00 Single Supplement

MURRAY, DARLING RIVERS S.A. RIVERLAND TOUR 7 Days/6 Nights Darling Junction Motor Inn Junction Murray & Darling Rivers, Paddlesteamer Cruise, The Riverland SA

$820.00 PPTS Ph: 0418 571 682 www.murraydarlingtours.com

Call our office for full details and brochure (02) 9838 1733 info@pegasuscoachtours.com.au

WW16231

LIVE MUSIC

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

A Heep of great tracks and amazing memories KATE REID @kate_reid6

WW16024

n the 70’s hard rock scene there were four bands that made up ‘The Big 4’ of the genre. This included legendary acts Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Uriah Heep, with the latter bringing their progressive rock to Rooty Hill RSL this March. These masters of hard rock/metal have earned a strong following due to their powerful live shows and diverse back catalogue. The band have sold more than 40 million records worldwide, headlined Reading Festival and Sweden

Rock Festival, and are still touring to adoring fans four decades on. During their most recent Aussie tour in 2011, which celebrated their 40th anniversary, the band played to audiences young and old and with Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes singing on their album ‘Relentless’, it’s clear that the band have a close relationship with our fair country. If you love your rock with a heavier sound then this is one gig you won’t want to miss. Uriah Heep will be performing at Rooty Hill RSL on Thursday, March 19. Tickets are $65. For more information or to purchase tickets visit rootyhillrsl. com.au or call 9625 5500.

WW15214

Friday 27 February 2015 ÂŤ the western weekender

27.2-8.3.2015 EDITED BY Kate Reid

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Acoustic Soloist Venue: Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Karaoke Venue: Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 2060 Social Darts Venue: St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Sips and Sounds Venue: Penrith Regional Gallery Free entry, 4pm 4735 1100 The Be-Bop-A-Lula Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 8pm 4728 5200 Koppen Terrace Venue: Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Jalapeno Deluxe Venue: St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Unleash Venue: Fitzroy Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4577 3396 Stone Venue: Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4731 3881 Abbalanche Venue: Rooty Hill RSL $20, 8pm 9625 5500 Get The Party Started - The Pink Show Venue: The Henry Lawson Sports Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 2119 Soundproofed Venue: Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Live Entertainment Venue: Club Paceway

Free entry, 6.30pm 4721 2375 Greg Poppleton Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Nevilles Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Blackwater Venue: Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 The Frocks Venue: St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Chilli Challenge Venue: Fitzroy Hotel Free entry, 7pm 4577 3396 Manpower Australia Venue: Evan Theatre at Panthers $31.55, 8pm 4720 5555 The Searchers Venue: Rooty Hill RSL $20, 8pm 9625 5500 Mini Gras Venue: The Joan Free entry (donations welcome), 6pm 4723 7600 Jack Thompson Twins Venue: The Henry Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 2119

SUNDAY, MARCH 1 Karaoke Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 6pm 9623 1211 Stephanie Jansen Venue: Terrace Bar at Panthers Free entry, 3.30pm 1800 061 991 Tony Williams Venue: The Henry Lawson Sports Club Free entry, 1pm 9623 2119 AJ

THE MCCLYMONTS EVAN THEATRE FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Venue: Fitzroy Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4577 3396

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Acoustic Soloist Venue: Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Karaoke Venue: Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 2060 Social Darts Venue: St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 The McClymonts Venue: Evan Theatre $40, 8pm 4720 5555 Manila By Night Venue: Rooty Hill RSL $15-$20, 8pm 9625 5500 Vintage 4 Venue: Penrith RSL

Free entry, 8pm 4728 5200 Time Machine Venue: Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 M7 Venue: St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Endangered Species Venue: Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4731 3881 Mark Travers Venue: The Henry Lawson Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 2119 Urban Stone Venue: Colonial Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 9623 1384

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Jive Bombers

Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Live Entertainment Venue: Club Paceway Free entry, 6.30pm 4721 2375 The Beatnix Venue: Rooty Hill RSL $10-$15, 8pm 9625 5500 Us-Too Venue: Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Mad Cow the Band Venue: St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Totally Covered Venue: Fitzroy Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4577 3396 Simon Tedeschi Venue: The Joan $30-$35, 8pm 4723 7600

After Party Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Red Alert Venue: The Henry Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 2119

SUNDAY, MARCH 8 Karaoke Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 6pm 9623 1211 Rough Stock Duo Venue: Fitzroy Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4577 3396 Blake Tailor Venue: The Henry Lawson Sports Club Free entry, 1pm 9623 2119 Matchbox Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200

WW16291

The perfect Cocktail & Restaurant Lounge for your next catch up, corporate function or celebration with an extensive dining menu. Level 1, 89 George Street Windsor NSW 2756 (Entrance via Baker St) Phone: (02) 45 778 870 info@illusionslounge.com.au

www.illusionslounge.com.au

illusionsloungewindsor

DRESS RULES - Smart casual attire. Closed in dress shoes or fashionable sandals only EXCLUSIONS - Training, athletic, thongs, gym shoes or runners, track pants

CINEMA

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

REVIEW W EI V E R

DVD The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 Rated M // KATE REID

‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1’ picks up right where the last film left off. After destroying the games Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) has been rescued and is residing in District 13. Unfortunately the Capitol has Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) and Katniss is reluctant to be the face of the revolution in fear of what President Snow (Donald Sutherland) might do to him. Eventually Katniss comes around to the idea and with the support of President Coin (Julianne Moore) she once again takes on the role of the Mockingjay, to save Peeta and give the districts the revolution leader they need to take on the Capitol. Generally film adaptations are

never as good as the book, and ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1’ is no exception, though it’s not too far off the mark. It’s a great setup for the final film but it does feel like the split into two parts was unnecessary, it would have worked better as one three hour film with an epic finale. As with the rest of the franchise the performances are solid across the board. Jennifer Lawrence is charismatic and leads the cast with confidence, though her facial expressions can sometimes border on comical. ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1’ is an enjoyable film but the best of the action is yet to come.

3.5 STARS

FOOD Vincent

Glenbrook // KATE REID

Jupiter Ascending

Rated M // STEPHEN BISSET Writer/directors Lana and Andy Wachowski are back with a visually stunning sci-fi epic that, while strong on style, offers very little in terms of substance. Mila Kunis stars as Jupiter Jones – a lowly house cleaner on a futuristic Earth who, in what has to be one of the most clichéd sci fi tropes in cinematic history, discovers that she is in fact a space princess who is the only thing stopping humanity from ultimate destruction, thanks to an icky human harvesting program that sees people turned into a liquid that alien overlords use to keep their skin looking youthful. Kind of like an intergalactic Oil of Olay. This is essentially a B-grade space opera with an A-grade cast.

2.5 STARS

Glenbrook has always been a popular destination for diners and now there’s a new kid on the block. Meet Vincent, the latest venture from Ross Dobson, owner of the much loved Penrith restaurant The Union. This cute little cafe offers diners a menu that doesn’t just fall back on the same old cafe meals. There’s a mix of

different cuisines from French to Moroccan to Asian inspired options from the Tunisian eggs, to French brioche toast or the Vietnamese grilled pork roll. The atmosphere is relaxed and open, with outdoor undercover seating, floor to ceiling windows and lovely vintage inspired cutlery and furnishings. After ordering one of the breakfast

PH: 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Hwy Kingswood

• Bacon Kits • Spirit and Liqueur Essences • Chocolate Making Kits

4.5 STARS

Country Brewer Epicurean Roberts Confectionery Wyeast Fowlers Vacola A Taste of the Bush Andale Coopers Weyermann Joe White

WW16255

• Cheese Kits • Beer Making Kits • Jerky Making Kits • Smoker Boxes

POPULAR BRANDS

more than just homebrew

specials, poached eggs with roast tomatoes and basil pesto on sourdough, it’s clear that Vincent offers substance as well as style. The eggs pass the perfectly poached test, as the yolky centre oozes out upon cutting. Combine this with the freshness of the basil pesto, baby spinach and roast tomatoes and it’s a delicious, healthy and hearty start to the weekend. For the sweet tooth Vincent’s baked goods will be hard to go past. There’s freshly baked French pastries that sit on the countertop just tempting you to try them. We order the date and banana bread and though it’s hard to go wrong with banana bread, this one is particularly good. It’s perfectly light and the addition of dates gives it an individual twist. Of course one of the staples of a great cafe is good coffee, and in this area Vincent doesn’t disappoint. The staff at Vincent are friendly and efficient and it’s this focus on customer service paired with delicious food that is sure to keep diners coming back for more.

www.countrybrewer.com.au

WW15949

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

WINE LIST

TALENT

bank

Well worth the price

eo buring did a smart thing when it moved into Tasmania around a decade ago, with its top-notch Leopold label from the cool climate Tamar Valley in the island’s north stunningly rewarding for Riesling buffs. After evaluating the potential for Riesling in Tasmania and setting itself a goal “to make the best Riesling in Australia”, it planted grapes in the Tamar Valley, Upper Derwent and Southern Coast, with each area contributing its own particularly unique characteristics to the style of the wine. But for its just-released 2014 Leopold DW R20 Riesling it used fruit purely from one vineyard, its White Hills in the Tamar Valley around 20km south-east of Launceston. And the fruit from the highest, coolest section of White Hills has resulted in a wine that’s all about brilliant fruit flavour intensity and a beautiful back-up of palate-pleasing acidity. A rewarding drop to match with seafoods or roast pork and apple sauce, it’s certainly well worth the $40 recommended price. Watch this one: Western Australia’s Margaret River got a good dose of rain for the 2013 grape growing season, which allowed fruit to ripen gradually for excellent flavour. Winemaker at Devil’s Lair, Ben Miller used all this to great advantage with the company’s The Hidden Cave Cabernet Shiraz 2013, a wine with lovely aromas and moreish blackberry and blueberry fruits on the palate.

Lion Calamity! Penrith

GENRE: Indie/Punk/Garage Rock HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR SOUND: A concoction of heavy catchy guitar lines, tight grooves, deep and meaningful lyrics with a contrast of dirty blues and folk INFLUENCES: Hendrix, Queens of the Stone Age, Stray Cats, Band of Skulls, Band of Horses,Smith Street Band, Jack White FIRST ALBUM YOU EVER OWNED: ‘Chocolate Starfish and Hot Dog Flavoured Water’ by Limp Bizkit WHERE CAN PEOPLE HEAR YOUR MUSIC: www.soundcloud.com/lioncalamity WHERE CAN PEOPLE SEE YOU PERFORM: Bull n Bush Hotel – February 26, Gladstone Hotel– March 6

KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LIMITED 1490 Elizabeth Drive | Kemps Creek | NSW 2178 | Australia Telephone: 9826 1375 info@kcsb.com.au | www.kcsb.com.au WW11020

45 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Social Scene

Luddenham Showground February 21 and 22

Everyone had fun at the show! The Luddenham Show was held last weekend and what an event it was! Over many years Luddenham has gained a reputation for the quality of its stage entertainment even being one of the first places a young Anja Nissen performed. This year was no different with some fantastic entertainment on the main stage. Locals who attended the Luddenham Show last weekend couldn’t stop raving about how great it was, with something for the entire family. Whether it was rides, checking out the animals, understanding the history of the event or simply walking around the beautiful showground, everyone who attended had a great time. The Luddenham Show will be back in 2016.

NORMAN’S SCRAP METALS Free Call 1800 225 235 Cash buyers of all Ferrous SYDNEY - 9748 0611 PENRITH - 4732 1683 34 PEACHTREE ROAD, PENRITH FAX - 4721 7658 and Non-Ferrous Metals (Off Castlereagh Road) 6 BLIGH STREET, AUBURN PICK-UP SERVICE AVAILABLE NEW & USED STEEL BOUGHT & SOLD

OPEN 7 DAYS MOST PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

WW15438

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

GIVEAWAY

Le Noir – The Dark Side of Cirque

here’s not many experiences more mesmerising than the beauty and athleticism of the cirque world. The newest show to reach our shores is ‘Le Noir – The Dark Side of Cirque’, a surreal, captivating and seductive show that aims to offer audiences an intimate experience that puts them right in the middle of the action. The show is set up around a circular stage which gives audiences a 360 degree view of some of the world’s best cirque performers, many of whom have toured with Cirque du Soleil. Acrobats, musicians, comedians and specialty acts will take audiences through this amazing theatrical journey at the Lyric Theatre, The Star. ‘Le Noir – The Dark Side of Cirque’ has just finished a sold out world tour, so be quick if you want to grab tickets to this show that brings darkness to the world of theatre. Tickets can be purchased through www.ticketmaster.com.au. The Weekender has five double passes to Le Noir to give away. Tickets are for the Thursday, March 19 performance. For your chance to win one, email the code word ‘NOIR’ to competitions@westernweekender.com.au and include your name and contact details. Entries close Wednesday, March 4. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/15/00066. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

WHERE CAN I GO ?

GREAT Community Transport can assist eligible clients with: Regular mini-bus shopping services (carers may be available to assist )  Social outings  Medical and hospital appointments  Cancer care appointments

WHAT TRANSPORT DO WE PROVIDE?

WHAT DOES IT COST?

WW15917

Small group transport is provided in:  Wheelchair accessible buses and vans  Service cars and volunteer cars. Clients are welcome to bring their own carers but they must be registered with the service Costs vary and are determined by assessment with contributions negotiated individually.

www.greatcommunitytransport.org.au

Blue Mountains: 4759 2403 • Penrith: 4722 3083

WW10576

TEST YOUR

ACROSS 1. Tattle 4. Loomed 8. Saudi native 11. Absent-minded 13. Arrive at 15. See-through 17. By way of 18. Masks 20. That female 21. Magazine edition 24. Family adage 27. Head louse egg 28. Ring-shaped coral isle 30. Primp & ... 31. Ascends 33. Flickering ﬁrelight 34. Split up 35. Hearing-impaired 36. Launder 39. Begs 42. Unnourished 44. Admonish, ... the Riot Act 45. Smooths (wood) 46. Make airtight 48. Cereal 49. Public persona 50. Animal hide 52. More sensible 54. Reside 55. Called 56. Passes on 57. Vocalised 60. Bridge length 62. Numskulls 65. Retreat 67. Amazon dugout 69. Operating handle 70. Cuddly toy 72. Traﬃc light colour 73. Court doorkeeper 75. Actress, ... Streep 77. Typist’s ailment (1,1,1) 79. Throat lump, ... apple (4’1) 81. Cow sound 82. Salute with drink 84. Social equals 85. Biblical prayer 86. Golf-green stroke

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

sudoku

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

brain

crossword

87. Delays (progress) 88. Apiece DOWN 1. Composer, Johann Sebastian ... 2. Prevent 3. Sheep’s cry 4. Arranges, ... up 5. Fluctuates 6. Roved 7. Annoyed exclamation 8. Trump card 9. German wine, ...

Riesling 10. Closest pal, ... friend 12. Cook under element 14. Shy away from 16. Rental contract 19. Speaks with impediment 22. Toiled 23. Turns upside-down 25. Eye-watering vegetables 26. Clans 29. Outside busy period (3-4) 32. Use needle & thread

35. Desk compartments 37. Dispel (fears) 38. The Pied Piper Of ... 40. Classical language 41. Caesar or Waldorf 42. Goat mammary gland 43. Divine being 44. Pine exudation 47. Accumulated 51. War ﬂeets 52. Pay (bill) 53. Respect 54. Security 58. Formed a curve

Last week’s solutions

59. Distilled spirit 61. Deep chasm 63. Extinguish 64. Church address 65. Relocate 66. River-mouth ﬂats 68. Modify 71. Turbulent situation 72. Sloped walkway 74. Potato cake, ... brown 76. Salesmen 78. The seven year ... 80. Encountered 83. Bullﬁght cheer

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith

Join one of Australia’s most renowned pianists on a personal journey through the works of Gershwin and the classical composers in his world.

A playful, highly visual new show for very young children – a perfect ﬁrst time theatre experience.

“…a sense of wonder wrapped in quiet charm”

“Tedeschi draws the listener into his world… a rare gift”

Huﬃngton Post

KIDS & FAMILIES AT THE JOAN B

London Evening Standard

OO K NOW

SIMON TEDESCHI GERSHWIN7 March & ME 8pm BOO K NOW

CATHERINE WHEELS THEATRE CO

28 & 29 March 597 High Street Penrith 02 4723 7600 www.thejoan.com.au

WW16262

Richard Bonynge Piano Series

597 High Street Penrith 02 4723 7600 www.thejoan.com.au WW16219

ARIES

LEO

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Are you ready to rumble Rams? The Jupiter/Uranus trine sends a lucky opportunity your way but you’ll have to grab it via making a split-second decision … which is your speciality! The spontaneous stars also increase your energy levels, boost your impulsive side and amp up your impatience.

TAURUS

Resist the urge to coast along on your beautiful bovine behind this week Bulls. The stars encourage being unusually spontaneous, especially at home. Perhaps you could throw a surprise party or play gracious host to some unexpected guests? But strive to be extra sensitive to the needs of a highly-strung child or teenager.

Moore

HOROSCOPES

GEMINI

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The Full Moon’s in Virgo, so your perfectionist streak swings into top gear and (in your eyes) it’s hard for you (or anyone else) to do things ‘properly’. If you’re smart you’ll lower your standards (just a little) and realise that perfection is an illusion. Jupiter and Uranus awaken your detective talents.

LIBRA

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

With Jupiter and Uranus spurring you on, it’s a terrific time to tap into your inner genius! Your mind’s buzzing with creative and innovative ideas as you talk, text, tweet, travel or study up a storm. Curiosity is high and you’re keen to broaden your mental horizons via communicating with colleagues, friends and family.

CANCER

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Romantic relationships get a welcome shot in the arm from the Jupiter/Uranus trine, so there’s never been a better time to fix a floundering marriage or find a fabulous new love. Have you got a problem that’s too big to handle on your own? Be proactive about enlisting the help, expertise and creativity of others.

SCORPIO

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Weekly posts at www.BohoAstro.tumblr.com www.twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2014

Jupiter is jumping through your sign, and this week it trines Uranus which makes for mega-luck and awesome opportunities. But are you bold and brave enough to recognise and capitalise on good fortune when it comes along? Confidence is the rocket fuel that will propel you into exciting new territory.

VIRGO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Joanne Madeline

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

You’re inclined to become obsessed with other people’s business this week. But here’s the paradox Cancer … the more you try to control others the more out-ofcontrol you’ll feel. Jupiter and Uranus encourage you to start concentrating on your own affairs – especially those of a financial nature.

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Your public life looks promising, as the Jupiter/Uranus trine revitalises your energy and enthusiasm for work projects, study or volunteer endeavours. But Pluto squares Venus mid-week, which draws out deep resentments, obsessions or jealous behaviour. Then Pluto helps you convey a powerful message with punch.

- UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT -

Anthony

Walker

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

FINANCE

IN PENRITH VALLEY EXCITING NEW MENU - FULLY LICENCED

10% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR TOTAL BILL FRIENDLY FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS DINNER BANQUETS AVAILABLE G GOLDEN OLLDEN C CHEF HEFF AWARD AWAR RD - BEST T ASIAN ASIA AN RESTAURANT RE ESTAURA ANT

WITH ENTREE & DRINK

71 Billington Pl, Crn Great Western Highway EMU PLAINS | P H O N E 4735 5810

WW14835

LUNCH Tuesday - Sunday 11-2.30pm | DINNER Tuesday - Sunday 5pm - 9pm Friday - Saturday 5-10.30pm | Monday closed

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Get set to embark on a rollicking magical carpet ride of good fortune and adventure, as Jupiter (your ruling planet this month) forms a fabulous trine with unconventional Uranus. Lady Luck is on your side as you throw caution to the wind and bravely grab good fortune when it comes along.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Capricorns can get stuck in a rut, too cautious to try anything new. Jupiter and Uranus urge you to be more adventurous, as you venture outside your comfort zone. And do you feel torn between allowing a loved one more freedom, and holding them too close? You have to give them plenty of space or you’ll drive them away.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The Jupiter/Uranus trine helps you channel your unique talents and express yourself to the max! For inspiration, look to avant-garde Aquarians role-models like Mozart, James Dean, Bob Marley and Yoko Ono. It’s also a wonderful week to exercise your brain cells and learn something new.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

When it comes to career, study or volunteer work, strive to make alterations that allow you to be more creative and independent. Perhaps you can change your professional routine, enrol in a different course or initiate a challenging new project? Don’t be too cautious Fish – fortune favours the brave!

There are some one billion computers in use around the world at any given time and 160 billion emails are sent daily. Would it surprise you that 97 per cent of those emails are spam? Technology is a wonderful thing, allowing us to communicate with ease, research facts and figures like those I’ve given you above, and manage our finances. Some people are afraid to use the Internet for fear of hackers and fraudsters, but if you shy away from advances in technology because of fear of the unknown, imag-

Be alert but not alarmed

CHECK OUT OUR LUNCH SPECIALS

SAGITTARIUS

owner and manager Bank of Queensland anthony.walker@ boq.com.au

ine what you’ll miss out on. There’s no guarantee that you won’t be affected, but if you follow these simple lessons, you’ll improve your odds of staying safe and secure out of sight. Lesson One: No bank will ever, ever send you an email or text message asking you to input or verify your account details. Banks don’t do that because they know that’s what the fraudsters do. If the banks did it as well, we’d have no way of knowing if it was the real deal or

not. NEVER respond to these emails no matter how official or ‘bank like’ they look. Lesson Two: Install antivirus and firewall software on your computer, the best you can get. And program it so updates can be automatically installed on a regular basis (weekly is best). Remember these days with the advance in smart devices your mobile phone is a computer too. Over the next few years you’ll likely need to install antivirus software on your phone as well. Lesson Three: Choose a good password. Here’s my tips: don’t pick a word from the dictionary; use a song or phrase to help you remember and then take the first letters from each word, for example: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star = TtLS. Then add some numbers and punctuation, TtLS2515! Lesson Four: Use a onetime transfer password device. Some banks use SMS messaging to your mobile phone for money transfers to new accounts, BOQ uses a special device for maximum transfer limits of up to $10,000 per day. Chat with your bank about the best device for you. Lesson Five: Trust your instincts. If you get that strange feeling that something is not quite right, it’s probably not.

Tweed FASHION

You really need to love your hair!

katherine.tweed@westernweekender.com.au @ktweed_

Matthew

Ely

JEWELLERY

This seems to be a hot topic amongst many of our clients at the moment. Should they elope and get married somewhere by themselves, or do the traditional thing and become husband and wife in front of their loved ones? I’ve had plenty of clients talk about their wedding plans with me while we discuss and design wedding rings. I get to hear all about the wedding dress (when the groom isn’t in ear shot of course), about the ceremony, the reception venue, theme, the honeymoon. I even get

Should you elope for your wedding?

York Jewellers Penrith

asked about special gifts for the groom to give his bride, and vice versa. It’s a lovely thing to be a part of. Lately, though, I’ve had a number of clients tell me that they are packing their bags and are off to treat themselves to a wedding / honeymoon all in one go. Eloping to somewhere amazing to get married together, just the two of them, a celebrant and a couple of witnesses.

I thought back to my own wedding, I myself am too traditional to elope. My wife and I had a beautiful wedding here in Sydney, in the same church as my parents, and loved every minute of having our family and friends there to celebrate the day with us. It got me thinking though – what drives couples to elope? For most it seems to be the high costs of a wedding. They begin looking into the price of everything once they become engaged, and then become overwhelmed at the thought of it all so they decide to tie it into a holiday experience. For others it is just that they are a mature aged couple (possibly with past marriages) and they see it simply as a formality between the two of them. Important none the less but they just may not want all the preparation that comes along with a wedding. I’ve also had clients tell me that they had such a wonderful experience on an overseas trip together that it’s where they want to say their vows, just the two of them at a specific location that holds sentimental meaning. All circumstances are understandable and there always seems to be a big party when they get home!

49 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Katherine

I have always been wary of the products that I use in my hair, terrified that I will one day use a shampoo or a conditioner that will strip my colour, split my ends and cause my hair to fall out in chunks. Any person – although women are more likely to be aware of this than men – would know the rumours that lie around certain hair products and certain brands. Some are rumoured to damage hair dramatically or strip it of all natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle, and while I would love to weigh in on the debate, the simple fact is that I have always avoided any products that are questionable in any way. I have used cheap shampoo, forked out $40 for a small bottle that lasts no more than a fortnight and for the long term readers of my column, you would remember that I have even tried conditioning before shampooing. Every time I am finished with a bottle I have to go out and try a new product, with fear I must admit, and I have never been satisfied. It could be that I am simply not an easily satisfied person – by nature I am always having to try new things and rarely settle on a product – but it is also because I have not yet found the product that I am truly confident is the best one for my hair. It has only been in the past six months that I have begun to look into using natural products. It started when a friend recommended I use witch hazel as a face toner in the mornings and evenings. I couldn’t believe that a natural product with no ‘miracle chemicals’ could work so efficiently and so, I began to gradually make the switch to natural products. I began to shop for natural exfoliators

and other face products but still, I had not thought of my hair and was continuing to do the rounds, picking up product after product from the shelves. My fascination with natural products led me to natural beauty store Lush, which has a huge range of shampoos that I very quickly took an interest to. My love of their products meant that I was so excited to learn that the brand has just released a range of Solid Shampoo Bars. I’ll admit, they are kind of weird to use,

in fact it feels very much like you are using a bar of soap on your hair, but they are so convenient, last for ages, they contain no preservatives and you are left with no waste. In addition, they come in a range of bright colours and smell fantastic. I would recommend the products for those who are bored with normal shampoo, keen to use natural products or are committed to reducing the amount of waste they send to landfill. Love your hair!

Adore is under new management. Our highly trained therapists are all diploma qualified. At Adore we specialise in skincare and spray tanning for all skin types. Whether you have sensitive, mature, or problem skin we will do our best to find a treatment and solution for you. At Adore we pledge to our clients that we will always give them 110% with every treatment, we will go above and beyond to make our clients feel comfortable and welcome. Our Nail Tech, specialises in all aspects of Acrylic nails including white powder French infills.

WW16275

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Do you want to do this over summer? You can’t with toe nails like this. Ugly, unsightly, fungal nails.

TRIED paints, creams or medications with no success?

THERE IS AN ANSWER! Medical grade laser treatment is  Highly effective – Fast results  Safe – No side effects!  Minimal discomfort  Nail polish can be applied immediately after you leave  No Anaesthetic required Australian Ambassadors for  No need to take medication! Clarks footwear

A Step Ahead

Foot+AnkleCare

We have appeared as foot health experts in

Australian Ambassadors for Clarks footwear

Penrith 4732 2007 St Marys 9673 2987 Check us out now at www.astepahead.com.au Join us and our 10,000+ fans on

http://www.facebook.com/podiatristsydney for more information WW16296

A daily ‘must do’? Take time for yourself. Even with a busy schedule, it is important to find something you enjoy and take the time to do it. Even if it’s simply reading a book or sitting outside for 15 minutes.

Fitec is the Fitness Industry Training & Education Centre. It’s where the trainers get their training! As part of raising awareness and promoting it in our community, we present the Fitec Fitness Champion! Each week we will interview someone who has successfully made health and fitness an integral part of their life...

Get out and get active

David

Stein HEALTH

How does fitness feature in your life? I have always been someone who enjoyed trying new activities and sports from a young age, participating in horse riding, gymnastics and dancing until my later years of high school. During Year 12 I joined Fernwood Penrith and I began attending 1-2 days a week. Once I finished school I went to uni to join the NSW Police Force and was first introduced to the idea of having a high level of fitness. I got a personal trainer at my gym to help me reach the physical requirements of the police force and have had the same trainer since. It was during this time of physical training that I realised where my true passion was and became more dedicated to health and physical fitness

This week Shane Richards has written to us with his usual enthusiasm and good advice! You couldn’t spend five minutes in a gym without hearing the words, functional movement (FM)! It seems every single trainer these days is telling us the importance of functional movements. But, what is functional movement and why do we need it? Firstly, functional movement can be different for many people. Young, old, job and environmental differences are just some reasons

Functional movement is important

What type of activity/exercise do you enjoy the most? I particularly enjoy dance style activities – Les Mills Body Pump and Body Step, Zumba and pole dancing. However, I also really enjoy boxing/combat style classes and anything that gives me a reason to get outdoors.

Top 3 tips for good health? Eat like our ancestors. This means eating high quality, fresh and organic foods in as close to their natural form as possible. Drink water! This one seems basic but so many people get it wrong. Our body is approximately 60 per cent water so drink

Freestyle – My business ‘Feel It Fitness’ I began this business in September 2014 offering a range of classes to suit all age groups, lifestyles and fitness levels. I work with you to develop programs and classes with your goals as the priority. For further information or to contact me, visit www.feelitfitness.com.au.

PATIOMAN Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms

Call Peter Dunn 4735 5055 or 0416 035 645 www.patioman.com.au WW16299 Coreen Avenue

Veterinary Clinic

Quality Loving Care

Western Sydney

Cat Hospital

WW15521

owner and manager of Fitec david@fitec.com.au

why FM can be so varied. Take for example your stay at home mum or dad. They will have a lot of duties and tasks to complete in a typical day. So, movements they do in the gym should help them to complete these duties and tasks. Then, you have someone who spends a lot of time in a job where they experience ‘death by chair’. Which

means they are seated basically all day and usually are limited in movement. These two people need plenty of ‘functional movements’ in their training to help balance out their very different days. Stretching and strengthening programs should be well constructed to either A) provide stimulus to muscle groups that are dormant and weaker and B) help to strengthen or stretch muscles and joints that are used throughout the day. Your stay at home mum or dad will use their lower backs a lot, picking things up, fixing things, reaching, bending, pushing, pulling, lifting and twisting all day long. Whereas a person who is confined to the desk will have a swivel chair and may only ever look forward at their computer and have everything within an arm’s reach. Different people, different days, different movement needs! In short, functional movement is extremely important due to one major factor. We all have different needs and functions therefore different movement requirements. Is it needed? Well this is simple. YES! We need it to be awesome at life. Stay functional, people... in health and happiness!

and decided that this was the career I wanted to pursue further. I dropped out of university and enrolled into the Certificate III in Fitness. By September 2014, I had begun my own business ‘Feel It Fitness’ and I am now dedicated to constantly improving myself both physically and mentally while guiding and helping others to do the same.

Lic No. 829 19C

Melissa Xerri

Biggest health/fitness misconception? I think that one of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to make big changes in order to see big results. Big changes are sometimes harder to stick with long term. Often it can be the small changes that will have the greatest impact and can be the most important. Start off small and gradually build yourself up to achieve bigger results.

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

up. My third tip is to simply rest. While an active lifestyle is healthy, our body still needs to recover in order to improve.

FITEC fitness champion

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Nicole

McMillan PET HEALTH

Dealing with lice in children is something that many parents are familiar with. Are pets at risk of catching lice? The short answer is no. Thankfully, lice are speciesspecific. This means that there is a different species of lice for each different animal. Human lice only live on humans and dog lice only live on dogs. Therefore if your child comes home with a diagnosis of lice, your dog, cat or other pets are not at risk from catching lice. Conversely, if your pets have lice, they are not contagious to humans. Lice in dogs and cats is very

Can your pet catch head lice?

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

rare. However, we do often see a few other creepy crawlies including demodex mites and sarcoptic mange (scabies). Scabies is caused by a mite and is a highly contagious skin parasite. The mites burrow into the skin and cause severe itching which can result in the formation of scabs and hair loss. Symptoms are most common around the ears, elbows, hocks, abdomen and chest.

It can be difficult to diagnose and diagnosis is usually based of symptoms and risk. Scabies is zoonotic; this means that scabies can be contagious to humans. However, after the dog has been treated, symptoms on humans usually disappear as humans are only a transient host of this parasite. Although we do sometimes see scabies, it is not a very common parasite in this part of Australia. Another external parasite that we very commonly see is another mite called Demodex. This mite actually lives inside the skin of most animals in very small numbers. In some animals, such as very young puppies and pets with poor immune systems, the mites that usually live in the skin can multiply and start to cause disease. Animals that have generalised demodex will often be very itchy, have hair loss and have secondary skin infection. Diagnosis is based off a simple test called a skin scrape where your veterinarian should be able to visualise the mites under the microscope. Treatment can be prolonged but most animals do make a fully recovery. External parasites, such as the mites that we have discussed as well as fleas are common in pets. Luckily, the ones that we see often can’t be transmitted to humans.

Rev John

Lavender RELIGION

In recent times politicians from all sides have come in for a bit of a hammering. As we look back in history, we see that this has not always been the story as some politicians have stood out as men and women 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 self confessed slow start to his political life, during the Easter of 1786, Wilberforce experienced the transforming grace of God; his heart

Grace of God helped a very special man

www.glenmorepark anglican.com.au and on Facebook

TABBY

of slavery. 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 would take 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 onequarter 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.

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

TYSON

PCC 145 Male DSH 5 Months Due Now This guy is just so handsome, he has a lovely friendly nature and is one of MANY cats that need a new home. If you can offer him a home or even if you can’t pop into the shelter and say hi and meet the animals.

PCC 150 Male Rotti x Mastiff - 8 yrs Due Now Tyson was surrendered by his owner and is now in need of a loving Forever Home. He is quite a sweet man but can be a little shy when he first meets you. Tyson is very deserving of a home and would love to meet you!

We always recommend bringing your own dogs to the shelter to meet any of the shelter dogs.

Our contact details are:

facebook.com/FriendsHCAS twitter.com/HawkesburyPdVol fohcas.com

Shelters contact details are:

Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756 ph: 02 4560 4644 companionanimal@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au WW16263

53 the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

THE DEALS ON THE BUS GO ROUND AND ROUND

? T S U R T U O Y N A C WHO PART OF PENRITH FOR OVER 10 YEARS D STE TRU A EN BE S HA ES TIV MO TO REDBACK AU

ves to do it right the first time oti tom Au ck dba Re st X tru can You E ond to none SI THS RE. can trust our prices and our service is sec You N T Fapply O M RESditions EAP con Minor Service from $75.00 T IN T ✓ Blue Slips and Pink Slips incl L.P.G ✓ Loan Cars Available ✓ Senior discounts apply ✓ All mechanical repairs incl Wheel Alignments ✓ Experienced in all local & European made vehicles

Major Service from $120.00 Dealer book services from $150.00 (warranty protected)

Redback Automotive your trusted family owned local mechanic

AUTOMOTIVES

CALL NOW for Bookings

We Don’t Bite! www.redbackautomotives.com

Ph:

4731 1110

WW16261

Cnr Castlereagh Road & Luggard Street PENRITH

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

WANT TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE

THIS SUMMER?

 Call us now to find out how

02 8999 5597 or 0419 283 113

www.nulookroofing.com.au WW16290

Licence No. 189585C ABN: 49559903646

“Where quality, service & great prices come together”

Call Shane 0411 704 302

With Every New Driveway FREE Excavataion and Removal of Old Driveway WW14306

LET US TRANSFORM THE LOOK OF YOUR PRIDE & JOY & BE THE ENVY OF YOUR STREET Blinds

Air Conditioning-Installation & Service ALL DOMESTIC-COMMERCIAL INSTALLER,SUPPLIER AND MAINTENANCE. Call Karl On 0401835217

Est 1989

Auto Parts-Recyclers

ALL BIKES WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE or WW416

www.bikewrecker.com.au

WW331

Call now for all types of Blinds, Security and Safety doors, Fly Screens, Plantation Shutters, Canvas & Metal Awnings.

Awnings

Good Old Fashioned Service

Phone: 4736 6866 • 0407 217 582 www.summerbreezeblinds.com.au

Building Contractors

PENRITH CITY AWNINGS Ph (02) 4732 6595 MBL: 0403 011 058 Lic No: 121977 C ABN: 45 694 859 807

• New design (Fly over) • New Flat Deck Roof • Carports & Awnings • Screened enclosures

CASH FOR CAR New & Used Auto Parts, Wrecking most makes & models

• Glass enclosures • Kits also available • Gable roof specialist

dave@penrithcityawnings.com PENRITHCITYAWNINGS.COM

Are you looking for a reliable builder?

\ FREE QUOTES ALL AREAS

0405 107 506

PHONE CHRIS philway@live.com.au www.philway.com.au

Carpenters &Joiners

picture?? pi p iccttu tu urree???

AUS GREEN CARPENTRY AusGreen Carpentry. Great Quality and Reliable Service. Call Brad on 0422081337.

Carpet & Furniture Cleaning est 1999

WW2877

PATIOMAN

\ RENOVATIONS \ DECKS \ BATHROOMS \ EXTENSIONS \ PERGOLAS \ CARPORTS

ABN 41586176397 LIC. 238922C

WW10542

• DIY Kits Available • Carports, Awnings • Glass & Screen Enclosures • We handle council requirement • We use quality Call now for a free quote! stratco products Ryan 0406 494 470

MetWest Carpet Cleaning

AFFORDABLE CARPET CLEANING

Ph: 4739 2132

All stains treated and deodorised inc. Rugs, sofas, dining chairs etc. Powerful truckmount steam cleaner, quick drying.

17 Attunga Rd, Blaxland WW15547

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED

from

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

Lic No. 829 19C

Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms Call Peter Dunn 4735 5055 or 0416 035 645 www.patioman.com.au WW291

M&J Painting & Decorating

• Fast Clean Service • Big Or Small Jobs • Interior And Exterior • Fully Insured • All Work Done Personally Glenmore Park

• Decorative Finishes • Competitive Prices • Reliable Service

60 $ 3 Seater Lounge 60 $ Rugs 25 3 rooms from

For your convenience We accept!

WW2133

We also repair Doors, Screens & Blinds.

LIC No. 269376c

WW15465

Will Pick Up

9602 8999 0408 441 075

Phone:

FREE QUOTES WW15197

Lic No. 44995C

Jason - 0417 221 822 • Mark - 0417 223 288 A/H - 4733 2525

from

Ask us about... Try before you buy!

Ph: 0428 271118

15 years experience

WW16071

ATTENTION SENIORS RING TO CLAIM YOUR SENIORS DISCOUNT ON CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Call 4722 2998 TODAY

Sydney’s Best Prices - 7 Days a Week - No Obligation FREE Quotes

Call Shane 0411 704 302

Licence No. 189585C ABN: 49559903646

With Every New Driveway FREE Excavataion and Removal of Old Driveway WW14305

Specialists in all Aspect of Concrete work • Driveway • House Slabs • Patios • Paths Carpet Layers & Planners

For your convenience

Call Merv 0418 249 738 or 9625 7740

Cleaning - Home WHITE SPOT CLEANING White Spot Cleaning offer flexible periodic cleanings either daily, weekly, monthly, or one time cleanings. Our End of Lease Cleaning Services is 100% Bond return!! 100% satisfaction!! Call Benji on 0423 740 412.

We accept!

Call Karen on (02) 4733 8492

Photographers - General

Electrical Contractors

Driveways

Sunflower All Areas covered

Email: adam@addspark.com.au Web: www.addspark.com.au Facebook: AddSparkElectrical ABN 87 230 128 359 • Lic 161420C • Open Cabling Lic A015236WW15414 WW15414

WW453

Garage Doors & Fittings

92 099 831 955 Specialising in: A.B.N: A.C.N: 099 831 955 - Domestic Garage Doors - Remote Controls - Repairs and Service WW3530 Lawrie Sandona Mobile: 0414 822 723

30 YEARS EXPERIENCE FULLY INSURED & FREE QUOTES

Frank & Olly’s

Garage doors Pty. Ltd.

• Paving • Tiling • Carpentry

Lic No. 221280C

WHEN QUALITY COUNTS

For friendly reliable service contact us on

0409 393 243 or 4735 1175 www.frankandolly.com

24hrs/7 days a week all areas , free quotes pensioner and senior discounts

Call Chris on 0404 478 487 lic. 251075c

WW10571

NEPEAN MAINTENANCE PLUMBING

Lic No. 4715C

    

Water & Gas Service Repair Blocked Drains Hotwater Heaters Backflow & TMV Testing Full Plumbing Maintenance

CALL GREG NOW ON: WW10899 0400 873 805

Landscape Contractors & Designers

Rubbish Removers

RICHARD MUELLER BRICKLAYER Lic 83907c

FREE QUOTES

Looking to do small jobs

0403 888 028

WW303

Penrith Valley Garden Care

After

PLUMBER, DRAINER, GASFITTER roof plumber, backﬂow & rpz testing

BRICKLAYING, HANDYMAN & GARDEN SERVICES

Gardeners Before

Call John 0427 784 815

LOCAL PLUMBER WW15075

Lawns • Garden • Pruning Hedges • Rubbish removal • Gutter cleaning •High Pressure cleaning

Friendly & Reliable Service • Fully Insured and Insured • 24/7 Emergency Service • Everything Electrical • Phone • TV & Network Cabling Adam 0414 858 213

Ezy Glide

Plumbers & Gasfitters

Property Maintenance

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL• INDUSTRIAL

• Driveways, Paths, Pool & BBQ areas • House Washing • Protective & Colour Sealing • Graffiti Removal

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER providing services in family portraits, weddings, commercial, photo restoration, functions and events.Please check my website at www.richardwillettphotography.com. Call Richard now on 0435 346 432

Home Maintenance & Repairs QU FREE OT ES

DIRTY DRIVEWAY

Enjoy reliable professional service with a smile!

Spiders, Ants, Fleas, Rodents, Cockroaches, Bird Lice, Wasps & Bees, Carpet Beetles. Termite Inspections and Treatments. Fully guaranteed work.

WW14786

WW298

Carpet & Vinyl Supplied & Installed Repairs & Restreches Free Quote

Family Owned Local Business for 18 Years

WW13618

M&L Carpet Laying • • • •

Pest Control

WW294

All garden and lawn services provided including: * Mowing and edging * Bindi and weed eradication * Lawn fertilisation * Watering system installation * General cleanup * Tree pruning

For a free quote call Pete on

0419 823 215 or 4727 0057

WW12339

* Hedge trimming * Gutter cleaning * Bushfire hazard reduction * Removal of all clippings

Call Steve on 4735 3142 or 0416 116 602

WW307

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS & DESIGNERS Landscaping – All Aspects Paving Retaining Walls Garden Renovations Pool Coping Turf Installations – Artificial. Free Quotes. Call Dean now on 0423 909 264 A.B.N. 38087588136 Lic No: 219463C

Swimming Pools

Gutter Cleaning

FREE QUOTES

Phone/Fax 9833 3563

Licence No. 95571C ABN 70 510 279 284

ADVERTISING WORKS

WW300

Reliable Services & Competitive Prices

9748 3022 www.abcseamless.com.au

• Truck, Bobcat & Excavator Hire • Auger, Forks & Hammer • Rubbish Removal & Site Cleaning • Landscaping, Turf & Plants • Retaining Walls

Phone: 0419 018 866

WW310

Home Maintenance & Repairs S & D PROPERTY CARE. Because we Care For all your lawn, garden & handyman needs. Fully insured. Reliable. We do everything.All Work Guaranteed. Call Steve on 0448 186 879. TOOL TIME HOME MAINTENANCE Carpentry; hanging doors; installation of locks; decking; skirting boards – Tiling; update your verandah, porch , kitchen or bathroom.Call David 0414923344 LIONEL BROWN PTY LTD All handyman services 25 years experience.Fully Licensed builder, best prices. Call Lionel on 0449 981 141.

GIVE YOUR POOL THE CARE IT DESERVES • Swimming pool service and maintenance • We service, maintain, repair & renovate • Casual, regular & holiday servicing.

FULL MOBILE SERVICE

Party Plan Selling KIDS FUNNY PHOTO BOOTH STYLE PARTIES OR PRINCESS PAMPER PARTIES. All at affordable low pricing. Based in Western Sydeny but willing to travel. www.partyfunphotos.com.au. Call Linda on 0415 550 251.

We are very experienced and use the Latest Technology in water testing. You can visit our state of the art shop for the latest pool equipment & maintenance products.

Pest Control WW14993

PROMPT, RELIABLE SERVICE Mobile 0414 833 356

 Box Cutter  Metal Roofing  Rainwater Tanks

WW14712

John Newham

 Continuous Aluminium  Colorbond Zincalume  Leaf Guard Specials

$ Licence No. 173676c

ABC SEAMLESS GUTTER DISCOUNTERS All Types of Gutters Installed

WW9437

Electrical Contractors

PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

4735 5322 Shop 2/133 Russell Street, Emu Plains

Tree Felling & Stump Removal

Email: envirocare1@bigpond.com

TOTAL SATISFACTION GUARANTEED WE CARE FOR YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Ph 1800 600 760 Mob 0419 972 399

ELEVATED ARBOR CARE All aspects of tree work. Free Quotes. Fully insured. Taking arbor care to the next level. Call Steve on 0438 247 740.

“Where quality, service & great prices come together”

Call Shane 0411 704 302

Licence No. 189585C ABN: 49559903646

With Every New Driveway FREE Excavataion and Removal of Old Driveway WW14304

LET US TRANSFORM THE LOOK OF YOUR PRIDE & JOY & BE THE ENVY OF YOUR STREET

Free rd i b y rl i h y r w e v e h wit ration o t s re

ROOF RESTORATION

SKANS PTY LTD is a family business. We pride ourselves on our high standard of work, quality of materials used and prompt efficient service.

9626 9377

www.skans.com.au WW16276

EVERYTHING ELSE

LOSE WEIGHT GET FIT GAIN ENERGY

FORK LIFT TRAINING & LICENCE

UNIT 1/4 CUNNEEN ST MULGRAVE (Near Windsor)

Registered Training Organisation

FORKLIFT TRAINING FORKLIFT TRAINING High Reach & Counter Balanced High Reach & Counter Balanced Licence & Refresher Courses Licence & Refresher Courses CONSTRUCTION INDUCTION CONSTRUCTION INDUCTION White Cards – Mulgrave & Faulconbridge White Cards – Mulgrave & Faulconbridge EWPA COURSES Yellow Card Courses EWPA COURSES Yellow Card Courses incl SCISSOR & VERTICAL Lift incl SCISSOR & VERTICAL Lift WORKING AT HEIGHTS Training Courses WORKING AT HEIGHTS Training Courses CONFINED SPACE TRAINING CONFINED SPACE TRAINING & MORE

Contact me today

Danielle Wellness Coach - 0433 323 270

Cash loans up to $2,000* * Terms & conditions apply. Australian Credit License: 390417

Formerly

www.okmoney.com.au WW15191

REMOVALIST

8678 2767

152 Queen Street ST MARYS 2760

WW16271

• Position available for a busy Excavation and Landscaping Company • Must be able to operate Bobcat, Excavator and Drive Range Rover Truck and Dog • Must have HC Drivers licence and OH & S White Card

Email Resume’s to rvellaexcavations@bigpond.com

RING TO CLAIM YOUR SENIORS DISCOUNT ON CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Call 4722 2998 TODAY

• MUST HOLD CURRENT DRIVERS LICENSE ( PREFERABLY MANUAL) • MUST BE TEAM FOCUSED, BE PROUD OF THEIR WORK & TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR COMPLETING HIGH QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

TURN SPARE TIME INTO $$$$$

Professional

ATTENTION SENIORS

• MUST HOLD A CURRENT ELECTRICIAN’S LICENSE & WHITECARD

Attractive wages, vehicle, uniforms & Smartphone provided.

Contact Our Friendly Staff on: 1800 830 506 Reliable

We require a Licensed Electrician who is a LOCAL RESIDENT and has experience in domestic and commercial work, to join our busy team BASED IN PENRITH

Some computer skills would be an advantage as we use an Electronic Job Management System

Truck/Machine Operator

Removals & Storage Sydney

LICENSED ELECTRICIAN

Must be meticulous with their work & job records, be able to fault find, have experience across a range of areas and have a clear understanding of and commitment to Work Health & Safety

POSITIONS VACANT

DOUBLE Affordable

WW15473

4577 9577

Phone • Book online: www.forktime.com.au

POSITIONS VACANT

WW15455

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Deliver catalogue & goods s Casual work close to home s Flexible hrs-up to $150/wk

WW16182

Are you this person? Then Please forward your resume to: lea@hix.com.au or Fax: 0247217577 Enquiries to Lea Hicks – 02 47217500 OR 0414441635.

Call: 1300 663 161 www.pennymiller.com.au

All applications will be treated in confidence. A part of

ADVERTISING WORKS

WW16223

POSITIONS VACANT

Mobile tyre service out of Silverdale. Good pay & good conditions. Full-time position, immediate start. Truck tyre experience necessary.

We are seeking a Plumber who: •

Is meticulous with their work & has a range of experience across maintenance and projects

•

Is neat and tidy

•

Is genuinely concerned about customer needs & wants to perform all work to create a successful outcome

•

Is keen to be part of a team but can also work effectively alone

•

Works safely at all times and is committed to Work Health and Safety

Call George on 0431 164 560 • Fax Résumé to: 4774 2244

•

ALWAYS leaves the site clean, tidy & safe and promptly completes all paperwork required

•

Is keen to learn more and to train apprentices

•

Has a range of experience in domestic and commercial plumbing which may include Hot Water, Pipe relining, backflow prevention etc

ARE YOU THIS PLUMBER ? Then Supakwik is your new home in your local area! We provide van, uniforms, Smartphone ( as a part of our electronic job management system) a safe work environment and flexible start and finish times. If you would like to join our team at Hix Group Pty Ltd please send your resume to: Jason@hix.com.au or contact Jason Brown on 0247217500 for more information WW16222

POSITIONS VACANT

RADIOLOGY RECEPTIONIST We are seeking a Medical Receptionist for our busy radiology practice at Penrith for: • Handling both over-the-counter and phone enquiries; • Liaising between doctors, patients and the other team members to ensure smooth running of the front office; • Scheduling patient appointments and advising patients of preparation; • Arriving patients and assure accurate data entries into patient files; • Patient billing. To be successful in this role, you must: • Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills; • Be well organised with attention to detail; • Be flexible and able to work under pressure; • Be computer literate; • Be a team player and is willing to learn new skills; • Be courteous and be passionate about patient care. Previous medical experience will be an advantage but not essential. You will enjoy working with our friendly team. Remuneration will be rewarded according to skill level and experience. If you are interested in the above position, please email your resume to Ms Nansi Ackling at nansi.ackling@radiologygroup.com.au

WW16246

A part of

WW16268

EXPERIENCED TRUCK TYRE FITTER

EXPERIENCED PLUMBER

HOLDEN

Storm warning: Special Edition returns SERVICE CENTRE

Book your service & go into the draw to

Auto Masters

WIN 1 of 10

☎ 1300 AUTOMASTERS

$100

25 YEARS FORD FACTORY TRAINING CV SHAFTS

440

2 YEAR GUARANTE

Major Plus Service*

Air Conditioning S

from

ervice

165

WE ALSO DO REPA

IRS

MINOR SERVICE

• Change Engine Oil & Filter • Check all Brakes, Tyres & Wheels • Adjust Tyre Pressure • Check Cooling System • Ceck Steering & Suspension • Check all Lights & Horn • Change Wiper Insert • Check and top-up all Levels

from

Unit 13 121 Coreen Ave, PENRITH

24th Drawn ber m e Dec

We do rsions Gas Conve ’s SAVE $$$ ON FUEL Vehicle Maintenance, Repairs & Rego Inspections OPEN SATURDAY Till 12 noon WW11484

4731 2083

Service Includes: • Includes Air Filter & External Fuel Filter • Full brake • 6 month/10,000 inspection • 102 point written warranty safety report • Valvoline premium engine oil & filter y ver h e ice • Standard spark t i w erv plugs s • Coolant top up

299

✁

Suppled & Fitted from

Ask about our no interest ever offer!

E FREGO RE

Christmas Shopping Vouchers

Comprehensive Service* Keep your engine in top condition

159

✁

All West C.V. Joint

olden has announced the return of the popular ‘Storm’ Special Edition on the tough yet versatile, Colorado Pickup. The updated Colorado ‘Storm’ will be available on 4x4 LTZ Crew Cab Pickup variants only and promises customers a more premium experience. In addition to an already improved 2015 LTZ interior, ‘Storm’ offers leather appointed seats, heated front seats and front and rear carpet floor mats. The already imposing exterior design is given an even more sporty appearance with black nudge bar, black sports bar and a ‘Storm’ branded bonnet protector. The features combine with Colorado’s impressive, unbeaten 3500kg towing capability and the award-winning MyLink infotainment system to provide a compelling offer. Holden Executive Director of Marketing, Bill Mott, said the Colorado Storm recognised that people are increasingly choosing Colorado to support their lifestyle and stand out from the crowd. “Colorado Storm is a great balance between a capable 4x4 Pickup and a vehicle that looks striking on the road,” he said. “With this Special Edition, customers have the opportunity to save over $2,500 off the RRP.” The Colorado Storm is on sale now.

• 72 point written safety report • Valvoline engine oil • Replacement oil filter • Full written ry report eve e h t • 6 month wi ervic s /10,000 warranty

E FREGO RE

Fleet Fleet customer customer servicing servicing including including Motor Motor Pass, Pass, SG SG Fleet Fleet & & Motor Motor Charge. Charge. All All major major cards cards accepted accepted

BLACKTOWN 34 Third Ave MT DRUITT 15 Luxford Rd Ph 1300

288 662

*Not valid with any other offer. A small surcharge may apply to luxury, imported, commercial, diesel or high performance vehicles. Valid till 10th January 2015. WW15976

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

AUTO

NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

2006 Hyundai Accent GLS

2011 Toyota Yaris YR 3 door

2013 Kia Cerato MY13 Si Hatch

2012 Toyota Corolla Hatch

$8,990

$9,990

$14,980

$14,990

August 2006. Hyundai Accent GLS auto sedan, low K’s, one owner, full service history, tint, weathershields, reverse parking sensors, dash mat, mats, Air Cond, ABS, CD, Dual Airbags, Central Locking Remote Control, P/W, ideal first car. Rego: AZR-91X

March 2011. Toyota Yaris YR 3 door auto hatch, one owner, full service history, May 2015 rego, towbar, Power Steering, Air Cond, ABS, Dual Airbags, Central Locking Remote Control, P/W, CD, Brake Assist. Rego: NSS-018

March 2013. Kia Cerato MY13 Si, 6 speed auto hatch, warranty until August 2018, full service history, ABS, Air cond, 8 airbags, central locking, I-pod connectivity, bluetooth, CD, ESC, cruise, traction, EBD, p/w. Rego: CC-62-TD

March 2012. Toyota Corolla Ascent hatch, 6 speed manual, low K’s, one owner, full service, bonnet protector, tint, Oct rego, new car warranty, Air Cond, ABS, CD, Airbags, Central Locking, P/W, Traction, Brake Assist, ESP, Rear Spoiler. Rego: CIQ-08X

2011 Mazda 3 Neo sedan

2010 Ford Ranger PK XL

2013 Nissan Dualis ST 2WD

2013 Hyundai IX-35

$14,990

$16,990

$21,750

$22,980

May 2011. Mazda 3 Neo manual sedan, tint, mats, one owner, full service history, Cruise, Power Steering, Air Cond, ABS, CD, Airbags, Central Locking, P/W, Traction Control, Dynamic Stability Control, Immobiliser, Trip Computer. Rego: CDB-57Z

June 2010. Ford Ranger PK XL 2WD cab chassis, 2.5Lt turbo diesel, manual, tint, towbar, alloys, 2400 x 1800 alloy tray with tonneau cover, one owner with full service history, Air cond, Dual airbags, CD, remote central locking, P/W, bench seat, Immaculate. Rego: BJ-91-KW

June 2013. Nissan Dualis ST MY13 series 4, 2WD, auto, reverse camera, sat nav GPS, one owner, full service history, new car warranty until October 2016, Cruise, 17 Inch Alloy Wheels, Power, Air Cond, ABS, CD, Airbags, P/W, Traction Control, Bluetooth, VSC. Rego: CC-60-TD

May 2013. Hyundai IX35 LM2 Active wagon, 6 speed automatic, ABS brakes, air conditioning, 8 airbags, remote central locking alarm, I-pod connectivity, bluetooth, CD, ESC, rear parking sensors, traction & cruise control, EBD, engine immobiliser, multi function steering wheel, P/W. Rego: CC-64-QA

Cnr Windsor & Bosworth Sts 2013 Toyota Rav 4 GX AWD

D/L: 14077

RICHMOND 2013 Holden VF SV6 ute

2012 Nissan Navara ST-X D40 Auto

2012 BMW F30 320D

$26,980

$31,980

$31,990

$47,980

August 2013. Toyota Rav 4 GX 4X4, current shape, 6 speed auto, new car warranty until August 2016, Cruise Control, Power, Air Cond, ABS, CD, Airbags, Central Locking, Parking Distance Control, P/W, Traction, Brake Assist, Bluetooth, Rear Spoiler. Rego: CC-32-QZ

September 2013. Holden VF SV6 ute, 6 speed auto, towbar, 7,900 K’s, balance of new car warranty, Cruise, 19 Inch Alloys, ABS, Radio CD, Airbags, P/W, Traction, Auto Climate Control, Body Kit, Dusk Sensing Headlights, ESP, Park Assist, Reversing Camera, Sports Suspension. Rego: CTF-64K

February 2012. Nissan Navara D40 series 6 ST-X King cab cab chassis, Auto, Low K’s, Alloy tray, snorkel, side steps, towbar, alloys, full service history, Cruise, Power Steering, Air Cond, ABS, Dual Airbags, 6 CD Stacker, Central Locking, Power Windows, Brake Assist, Side Steps. Rego:

February 2012. BMW F30 320D Sportline with I-Drive, 8 speed automatic with paddles, 32,400K’s, Factory BMW 18” wheel upgrade, Electric sunroof, GPS, black leather trim with red stitching, Cruise, ABS, CD, Airbags, P/W, Sport Seats, Tractiion, Climate Control, Automatic Stop/Start, DSC, Keyless Entry and Drive, Parking Distance Control Front & rear, Prestige motoring.



Trade-ins Welcome

WW16280



Finance Available T.A.P.

weekender

ADAM PEACOCK AD

M Move the de derby to ANZ St Stadium p.6 p.65

Mayor welcomes Giants as AFL pushes into Penrith Players from the GWS Giants met with Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler on Tuesday. Photo: Melinda Jane NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

layers from the Greater Western Sydney Giants were in town this week to chat with local school kids and play a bit of Aussie Rules football with none other than Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler. On Tuesday, Giants players Jack Steele,

Tim Mohr, Jeremy Finlayson and Tom Downie visited kids at Emu Heights Public School and girls from Penrith Anglican College to chat all things AFL. They also visited Penrith Council for a meet and greet with Cr Fowler. “We chatted with the kids about how we got to where we are and what we do on a daily basis,” Steele told the Weekender. The 19-year-old, who joined the club in

the off-season, said most kids in the area had heard of the Giants despite Penrith being predominantly a rugby league city. “The area is very rugby league dominated but there is the odd kid that plays AFL who also encourages his mates to play also,” Steele said. “I was one of those kids myself back in Canberra, so you can certainly tell the Giants are making an impact.”

The Giants’ 2015 pre-season campaign gets underway on Saturday, March 7 with a match against the Gold Coast Suns in Blacktown. Steele hopes to put in a good showing during the pre-season tournament to hopefully earn himself a dream AFL call up. “If I get to play at least one AFL game this year I’ll be pretty happy,” he said.

West City Tyres offers a 24 hour a day, 7 Day a week, Australia wide road side assistance service We also do Daily & Weekly Depot Services. We Specialise In: • Truck & Bus • Light Truck • Industrial • Earthmoving • Fleet Service Specialist • 24 Hour Road Service

Proud Supplier Of: • Bridgestone • Firestone • Bandag • Kumho • Hankook • Double Coin • Continental

• Austone • Triangle • All Major Chinese Brands

Mobile Truck Tyre Service & Commercial Vehicles

0431 164 560 Ph: 4774 2233

www.westcitytyres.com.au

WW16224

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Sport

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Sporting Fields

Council hoping for election sweetener Blair Oval and The Kingsway both in desperate need of upgrades to keep up with strong demand NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

enrith Council and local sporting groups including Penrith OzTag and Nepean Athletics have teamed up demanding the NSW Government invest in the city’s sporting venues. Blair Oval and The Kingsway in St Marys have both been identified as key venues in desperate need of major upgrades including improved facilities and fields. Little Athletics NSW and Athletics NSW have acknowledged Blair Oval as a priority site for a new all-weather track while each week thousands of players take the field at The Kingsway in OzTag, touch, cricket, football and school competitions. Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler, said Council plans to upgrade existing facilities at Blair Oval and The Kingsway to create a high class recreation precinct. “We’re lobbying candidates ahead of the March State Election and have also made an application to the Federal Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund,” Cr Fowler said. “The redevelopment is costed at $9.2 million and Council has identified $5.2 million in Section 94 funding available to put towards an all-weather athletics track,

Phil Stark, Sue Howard, Rob Masters, Steve Coffee, Ross Fowler, Evelyn Stark, Tony Coppini and Lachlan (long jumper)

floodlighting, additional sportsgrounds, amenities and ancillary facilities.” Nepean District Athletics Progress Committee President, Steve Coffee, said the upgrades were vital. “We have been working closely with Council and Athletics NSW to make this happen. We have athletes who have to travel out of the city to train and we aren’t able to host major meets at our current venue,” he said. “We recently lost out hosting the 2015 PSSA regional carnival to Blacktown as the event was scheduled for our grounds last year and was rained out.” Penrith OzTag President, Jamie Howard, said their sport is being held back by space and lighting issues. “Our sport has grown incredibly and each week we have around 2500 players on the fields at The Kingsway,” he said. “The sport is becoming more popular but we can’t grow any further without more fields and appropriate lighting. “Already we’re starting games as late as 9.40pm to fit all the competitions in.” The push for better facilities at the precinct is one of 16 key projects outlined in Council’s Building a Better Penrith advocacy document, which was sent to candidates for the March election.

All Purpose Glass and Glazing FREE Measure & Quote Repairs to Broken Windows, Installation of Shower Screens & Wardrobes Timber Internal Wardrobes & Wardrobe mirror front. All Bathroom Fittings, Taps, Vanities & Baths

NEW SHOWROOM

Unit 4, 11-15 Eddie Rd, Minchinbury

Showroom ~ 9832 1566 www.allpurposeglass.com.au

WW16123

63 the western weekender Âť Friday 27 February 2015

OzTag

Girls take out prestigious OzTag title Champions: Under 13â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side does local area proud and wins OzTag State Cup in Coffs Harbour NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

ocal girls from Nepean District OzTag were the big winners at the NSW OzTag State Cup in Coffs Harbour recently. The U13â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side, which is made up of players from Penrith, Emu Plains and Mulgoa, went through the entire eight game tournament undefeated, with most of their clashes ending in wipeouts. Coach of the side, Nigel Olsson, said most of the girls have been playing together since they were nine-years-old and have developed excellent camaraderie both on and off the field. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why the team is so successful because the core of the team has been kept together,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole team is excellent and their strength is that they really do play as a team. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like eight girls playing as one when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the field.â&#x20AC;? Olsson has only been coaching the side since they took out the OzTag Australian Championships last year, and said he enjoys the challenge of getting them to play as a team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the only team I coach and I love it,â&#x20AC;? he admitted.

Nepean District OzTagâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Under 13â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s girls side won the NSW State Cup â&#x20AC;&#x153;If they continue as a team and stay together, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll almost be unstoppable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are an excellent bunch of girls, they are real standouts.â&#x20AC;?

Meanwhile, six of the girls plus two shadow players have been named in the NSW representative team who will compete in the Nationals this May.

During the State Cup Grand Final, the side defeated Cronulla in a thriller 3-1. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always good to beat Cronulla,â&#x20AC;? Olsson said.

WINTER 2015 REGISTRATIONS Tuesday Evenings - MIXED Wednesday Evenings - MIXED Thursday Evenings - MENS Registra ons are now being taken for the winter 2015 compe ons. Registra on forms available at www.penrithoztag.com.au or call 0421448158. CompeĆ&#x;Ć&#x;on Starts Tuesday 21st April 2015 for Mixed Wednesday 24th April 2015 Thursday 23rd April 2015 for Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s RegistraĆ&#x;on Dates The Kingsway Fields Werrington from 10am - 1pm Saturday 28th February and Saturday 7th March 2015 Call us on 0421448158 to organise registra ons if you cannot make the above dates

Cost is $100 per senior player and $75 for U/18 (min 10 players per team) Cost for Wednesday Mixed is a one oďŹ&#x20AC; for this season $85 per player Only 2 Rep/Premier tag players in Wednesday mixed allowed Professionally administered compe on, prize money paid to all winners/ runners up. We also enter Representa ve Teams into a number of tournaments. All registered players welcome to trial

SAT. NIGHT 7TH )(%

BRISBANE

SYDNEY

0(/%2851(

6$7 1,*+7 TH )(%

6$7 1,*+7 TH 0$5

$5&+(5),(/' 63((':$<

6<'1(< '5$*:$<

CALDER PARK

RACING STARTS AT 4.00pm, FINALS START AT 7.00pm and PRO FINALS START AT 9.00pm.

WWW.ENDURO-X.COM.AU COMBINE MOTOCROSS, ENDURO & TRAILS, ADD A DASH OF SUPERCROSS THRILLS & SPILLS AND SOME OF THE WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST RIDERS AND WHAT DO YOU GET? ENDURO-X!

Check out www.penrithoztag.com.au for further details or contact Sue on 0421448158

BUY EXPRESS TICKETS ONLINE OR AT THE GATE!

Web: www.penrithoztag.com.au Email: penrith@oztag.com.au Phone: 0421448158

$'8/76 Â&#x2021; &+,/'5(1 6&+22/ $*( Â&#x2021; .,'6 81'(5 )5(( Â&#x2021; )$0,/< 3$5(176 &+,/'5(1 Â&#x2021; &21&(66,21

ÂŽ

MOTORCYCLE SUPPLY

WW16208

WW16233

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

You’re invited to

Kick For Africa’s

CHARITY BALL Saturday the 21st of March 2015 Location: 55 Sherbrooke St, Rooty Hill, NSW, 2766 Eastern Wing, Waratah Room

At Penrith Muffler Mart & Tyre we specialise in: • Budget Mufflers • Wheels & Tyres • Tow Bars • Exhaust Systems • Balance & Rotate • Brake Pads MANY OLD CAR EXHAUSTS IN STOCK

TYRE SPECIALS

Time: 6:30pm Tickets: $79 per person Dress: Black Tie

FREE PINK SLIP with every 4 tyres purchased

For Ticket Purchase please email kickforafrica@hotmail.com or CALL 1300 554 618

Sports Exhaust cat back

If willing to donate any unwanted or second-hand soccer gear, including boots, balls, shorts, socks, training gear, jerseys or shin pads, there will be DONATION BINS available at the venue, this is your perfect chance to drop it off!

from

350

LIMITED AMOUNT OF TICKETS! WW16293

195/R/15/LT

235/35/19

from

105

20” WHEEL & TYRES from

from

235/45/17 from

235/40/18

SERVICE

110

from

120

1200 from

205/65/15

89 from

18” WHEEL & TYRES from

900

225/35/20 from

130 $115 4731 6311 $

Unit 7/33 York Rd, PENRITH

WW16292

Sian Davies 0466 602 589 or visit: www.kickforafrica.com.au

• Plus More

INDOOR SPORTS Competition Starting Dates: Feb 4 - Wednesday Mens Soccer Feb 4 - Wednesday Mens Cricket Feb 8 - Sunday Mixed Netball Feb 8 - Sunday Ladies Netball Feb 10 - Tuesday Mixed Soccer Feb 10 - Tuesday Mens Soccer Feb 12 - Thursday Ladies Soccer Mar 2 - Monday Mens Cricket Mar 9 - Monday Junior Cricket Mar 11 - Wednesday Winter Junior Soccer 6/7s

• Court Hire • Canteen/Kiosk • Bowling Machine

Fun Sports Birthday Parties with bubble soccer, zorb balls and sumo suits.

1/16-26 Jack Williams Drive Penrith Phone: 4732 3777 Fax: 4721 7254 Email: info@penrithindoorsports.com.au • www.penrithindoorsports.com.au

WW16298

BRIEF

FOX SPORTS is the only place to watch every game of the AFC Asian Cup LIVE with comprehensive pre and post-match coverage

Adam Peacock

Time for Derby to switch to ANZ he Sydney Derby again. Can’t wait, neither can both sets of fans, which is the mark of something special – how either side is going is rendered irrelevant. It’s all about those 90 minutes, it’s all about three points, it’s all about laughing at your mate who supports the other mob. It’s fantastic what it has become in a short amount of time, but the time has come to think on a grander scale. Each club should host one of the three derbies. One at Allianz, one at Pirtek. The other should be at ANZ Stadium. Football in this country is surely not at the stage where it can afford to lock fans out of games. You want tickets to be hot items, but not rare species. Of course it nullifies one ground advantage for either side, rightly both Wanderers and Sydney love to host two derbies a season for the associated benefits of raucous support, and financial rewards for filling your corporate boxes. So split the gate and takings from ANZ Stadium. Let Sydney FC have the eastern side of the ground, Western Sydney the western side.

Given the form of the Wanderers and also the time of year, if this weekend’s game was at Sydney’s biggest stadium you’d be looking at a crowd of around 50,000. So perhaps make this the first one of the season, and the other two on a rotational basis year-by-year for who has the second or third. Fill the joint. 80,000 people at a derby. Split that between the two sides and

surely you make more, or the equal amount of what you’d get in returns from an Allianz Derby, and certainly a Pirtek one. The statement it would make about the sport would be far louder. This weekend will be great, 20,000 in that imposing atmosphere at Wanderland. But once a season, this game deserves as many people as possible in the ground, and not leaving people who want to be there searching desperately for tickets.

Tanya Davies MP, State Member for Mulgoa, visited the Penrith City Softball Association’s batting cages at Surveyors Creek in Glenmore Park last week. She was joined by Penrith City Softball Association President, Loretta Watts and three members of the Field family (Ethan, Demi and Keira) who play for various clubs in the Association. The visit coincided with the recent announcement that the Association was successful in receiving a $28,679 grant under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program. The grant is for lighting the batting cages. “I am delighted to once again support the Penrith City Softball Association with State Government funding of facilities at Surveyors Creek in Glenmore Park. These batting cages, and the lighting that will be installed here, will help players and officials really enjoy their recreational experience of playing softball in our community,” Mrs Davies said. Ms Watts was pleased with the funding. “Well-lit batting cages will definitely enhance the training experience of our members,” she said. “We conduct batting, pitching and catching practice for 84 teams which equates to approximately 900 players using our facility.” A number of other sporting organisations also received grants.

Bowls Mick Gilfoyle President of Penrith Men’s Bowling Club Terry Simmons presented a very professional approach to his Toastmasters job at Penrith’s Presidents Presentation Night last Saturday. Terry invited myself from the RNSWBA and Neil Workman from the NDBA as guests of the night. Congratulations to all those participants who were presented with their badges for the 2014 bowling season. Terry nominated Steve Harvey and Bob Taylor to receive the RNSWBA Merit Badges, Phil Horsley the tie bar and the two ladies nominated by the Ladies President namely Leslie Freeman and Jill McDonald to receive the Broaches. The two gents to receive the

NDBA “Valuable Members Award” were Neville Ireland and photographer Tim Spain. Bowler of the Year was Glenn Chandler and Clubman of the Year was William Dennis Allen. The new State Councillor for Zone 5 is Col Appleby from Campbelltown City. Col, a very astute man, is also the Zone 5 Secretary and is very dedicated to Zone 5, he will ensure all future alterations/ additions and changes to Zone 5 will be well debated by him at State Level. I wish him all the best in his new challenge. This Sunday sees the semis and final of the three legs of Singles at Penrith. All supporters welcome as it should be a great day of bowls.

WANT TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE

THIS SUMMER?

Harness Racing Lorraine Pozza The St Johns Park Bowling Club and their guests certainly enjoyed their night in our Top of the Track Sky Lounge last Thursday night.In fact everyone enjoyed the night which welcomed us back to racing after a seven week break. Race one went to Ali Mendes ($9.30) giving Tod McCarthey the first of three winning drives. My Sweet Pawsha ($2.90) driven by Gavin Fitzpatrick was able to lead all the way in the second. Favourite Ideal Legacy ($1.70) driven by Jack Trainor always looked good in the third. Davey Gunn ($7.20) driven by Tod McCarthey had the easy run behind

the leader and sprinted too quick in the straight winning nicely from Got The Chocies and Em Jay Forty Seven in the fourth. South Australian horse Albert Jaccka ($17.20) driven by Darren Billinger was too good in the fifth. Local trainer/driver Paul Tanti and his horse Sterlo ($3.40) got the biccies in the sixth. Outsider He’s a Hoover ($31.30) driven by Jinaya Niass bowled them over in the seventh. Katie McGill was all smiles when she guided The Sleepy Lion to win the eighth at $5.80 while Whata Drive ($1.20) driven by Tod McCarthey romped in the last.

 Call us now to find out how

02 8999 5597 or 0419 283 113

www.nulookroofing.com.au

WW12902

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Peacock’s Point

Friday 27 February 2015 « the western weekender

Football

Crisis deepens at the Wanderers Popovic under pressure as Western Sydney prepares to face arch rivals this weekend NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

e was the most in-demand coach just a matter of months ago, now fans are calling for Western Sydney Wanderers coach Tony Popovic to be sacked following the side’s 15th winless game of the season. Diehard fans are outraged that their beloved side isn’t performing this season despite reaching the A-League Grand Final twice in two seasons and winning the prestigious AFC Champions League tournament last November. Popovic’s head seems to be safe for now but there are calls to put former Wanderers assistant coach Ante Milicic in charge if things don’t improve. Milicic was Popovic’s assistant for Western Sydney’s first two hugely successful seasons in the A-League before he was headhunted by Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou last year to help mentor the national team. Last Saturday the Wanderers lost their 10th game of the season when Adelaide United beat them 2-1 in injury time. It was the second week in a row that the Wanderers had missed out on a result

Wanderers coach Tony Popovic is under pressure. Photo: Melinda Jane because of the extra minutes. The Wanderers were reduced to 10 men late in the second half after Socceroo Mathew Spiranovic was sent off after receiving two yellow cards. This allowed Adelaide, who sit in third place on the A-League ladder, to go in

for the kill and, in the 92nd minute, they scored the match winner. Speaking after the game, Popovic said he was disappointed with the result and, once again, said his side should’ve been well in front after a number of good scoring opportunities.

“Initial thoughts are disappointment, of course,” he said. “I thought the players did very well today, away from home against a good team. “We should’ve been out of sight before the first goal – the game should’ve been over by then.” Compounding Western Sydney’s disappointment was the loss of striker Brendon Santalab early in the match to another shoulder injury. The 32-year-old only returned to the pitch earlier this month in Penrith following a number of months out with a similar injury. After scoring two goals in his last three appearances, it’s now feared Santalab’s season is over for good after his latest setback. This weekend the Wanderers could restore some pride back into the season when they meet Sydney FC for the final Sydney Derby blockbuster of the season. The Wanderers could be a little underdone heading into Saturday night’s match at Pirtek Stadium, however, after they played against J-League club Kashima in Japan on Wednesday night in the opening game of their 2015 AFC Champions League title defence.

Around the grounds BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers women’s Waratah Championship League side have lost their opening game of the season. With their highest profile star in Tahlia Tupaea missing with WNBL commitments, the Panthers went down 78-51 to the Bankstown Bruins. Best on court for the Panthers was Alicia Poto who scored nine points and four boards in the 26-point defeat. Penrith will enjoy a bye this weekend.

TUFF. IT. OUT. Professional custom made mouthguards Greater protection, greater comfort Wide range of colours and design Health refund claimable

.au

.com s d r a u thg

ffmou guards.com.au u t . w w h w uffmout t E: info@

nrith reet, Pe t S le a d

9/12 Tin

4760 2337

CRICKET: Penrith are now out of the top six after going down to first-placed Manly-Warringah in Round 13 of the Sydney Grade Cricket competition. Playing in a two-day match which was affected by rain at Howell Oval, Manly-Warringah batted first scoring 179 runs. Penrith’s Josh Lalor was the pick of the bowlers with 6/75. Penrith hit the crease later that weekend and only managed 163 before being dismissed. Penrith’s John DiBartolo was best with the bat scoring 72. Penrith have just two rounds remaining before the finals to re-enter the top six. Their next match is a One Dayer against Gordon this Saturday at Chatswood Oval. BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers have won their two semi final matches against the Ryde Hawks in the NSW State Baseball League.

WW15723

In Game 1, Penrith narrowly defeated the Hawks 8-7. Game 2 was no different with the Panthers winning in a thriller 2-1. Penrith will now take on the Macarthur Oriols for a place in the Grand Final. FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers Y-League side have continued their losing ways, going down to Brisbane 3-2. The Wanderers will look to break their unwanted losing streak this Saturday when they take on the last-placed FFA Centre of Excellence at the Australian Institute of Sport. Western Sydney remains in ninth position on the Y-League ladder. RUGBY: The Penrith Emus will play a trial match against Eastwood this Saturday, February 28 at Nepean Rugby Park in Cranebrook. Lower grade games will begin at 10.15am with the main game kicking off at 4.30pm. RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 2 of the junior rugby league representative season got underway last weekend with the Western Sydney Academy of Sport (WSAS) coming away with a win. In the Harold Matthews competition, Penrith enjoyed a bye while WSAS defeated Manly 25-14. In the SG Ball competition, Penrith also had a bye while WSAS lost to Manly 28-20.

REDFEB – HOW WILL YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR HEART THIS FEBRUARY? Did you know that heart disease kills one Australian every 26 minutes? Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in Australia. Knowing your risk factors and following a heart healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your chances of being affected! February is Heart Research Month - where all Australians are encouraged to make their heart health a priority and proactively participate in the fight against heart disease. To celebrate, Heart Research Australia’s REDFEB campaign promotes simple ways to follow a healthy lifestyle, and raises much needed funds for first-stage, innovative research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. Be smart. Love your heart. “We are calling on all Australians to fall in love with their hearts this Heart Research Month. Challenge yourself by making a heart healthy change to your lifestyle. You can help us raise much needed funds for heart research by supporting REDFEB’, says Floyd Larsen, CEO Heart Research Australia. Anytime Fitness St Marys franchisee Shane Casey has taken up the Red Feb challenge to get the community moving and raise awareness for heart health. Together with Anytime Fitness Jordan Springs & Emu Plains they are calling on community members to Get YOUR HEART PUMPING and walk the Nepean River on Saturday Feb 28th. We are encouraging all participants to wear red to show you support Heart Health & a gold coin donation to raise funds for Heart Research Australia. Everyone is welcome so come along and Join us on Saturday Feb 28th from 7:45am at the Nepean River (opposite the coffee club). For further details contact your local club.

ST MARYS PH: 9623 3300

JORDAN SPRINGS PH: 4729 4140

EMU PLAINS PH: 4735 5093

*Offer valid for ﬁrst time members who are local residents or workers 18 years and older only (photo ID required) and who also may be required to complete pre-exercise screening satisfactorily. Not valid with any other offers. Not redeemable for cash. Not transferrable. Only valid at speciﬁed clubs (Clubs). Limit 1 offer per person. Where the guest pass permits use outside staffed hours, a refundable deposit will be payable for an access card. Further provisions may apply. See Club for details. Offer expires 31/12/15.

WW16289

With Every New Driveway

FREE Excavation and Removal of Old Driveway

Call Shane 0411 704 302 “Where quality, service & great prices come together” Licence No. 189585C

Specialists in all Aspect of Concrete work • Driveway • House Slabs • Patios • Paths • Residential • Commercial • Industrial

ABN: 49559903646

LET US TRANSFORM THE LOOK OF YOUR PRIDE & JOY & BE THE ENVY OF YOUR STREET Sydney’s Best Prices - 7 Days a Week - No Obligation FREE Quotes

WW16272

the western weekender » Friday 27 February 2015

Get your Heart Pumping & Walk The River with Anytime Fitness - Saturday 28th February @ 8am

4722 6693 24 HOURS

FOR ALL YOUR TOWING NEEDS

WW10397

• 24 Hour • Accident • Trade • General • All Vehicles • Bobcats • Forklifts • Machinery

2016 Annual Bridal Magazine

Bankstown cruise past Penrith in opening round of Waratah Championship @natetaylor87

eething issues plus a number of quality players missing saw the Penrith Panthers men’s Waratah Championship League side lose their opening round clash against Bankstown last weekend. The Panthers went down to the Bruins 81-65 following the withdrawal of a number of key players including Ben Kearins, Angus Brandt, Madol Chol (Sydney Kings), Nic Pozoglou (NSW U20s) and Luke Griffiths (injury). Penrith assistant coach Adam Peterson, who was in charge of the side with head coach John Hennessy away on representative duty, said it was a disappointing way to start the season. “Bankstown were hitting shots, we weren’t, and we definitely didn’t win the foul count either,” he said. “We started the game with just eight players and finished with five… we had three players fouled out of the game.” Heading into the fourth quarter, the Panthers were only down by four points. However, a lopsided foul count destroyed their rhythm and gave Bankstown the advantage. “The season started early this year and we’re fairly underdone in terms of preparation. A

To be a part call Linda on WW16260

or email: linda.miller@westernweekender.com.au

Friday 27 February 2015

“Underdone” Panthers lose NATHAN TAYLOR

A4 Full Gloss Book by Monday 9th November Distributed mid-December 2015

8039 2823

Sport

the western weekender // www.westernweekender.com.au

WW16260

Panthers’ electrifying point guard Noah Cleur in action against the Bruins. Photo: Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au) bounds) against his former club. This Saturday the Panthers will travel to Maitland to take on the Mustangs at 7pm. “We’re expecting a battle. Maitland have three Americans playing for them and last week defeated reigning premiers Norths,” Peterson said.

lot of our guys are involved with the Sydney Kings and our coach is away with NSW U20’s duties,” Peterson said. The one bright spark for the Panthers last weekend was probably the performance by newcomer Svetomir Gavrilovic, who registered a double-double (16 points, 10 re-

W A T C H

T H E

CHAMPIONS OF ASIA D E F E N D

T H E I R

T I T L E

THREE MATCH PASS AVAILABLE FROM $49* TICKETS ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER.COM.AU

WEDNESDAY

04 M A R C H

T U E S D AY

07 A P R I L

T U E S D AY

21 A P R I L

PA R R A M AT TA S TA D I U M | K I C K - O F F 7 . 3 0 P M

*QUOTED PRICE IS FOR WHITE CATEGORY ADULT - ADDITIONAL MEMBER DISCOUNT APPLIES.

WW16258