Western Weekender June 19 2020 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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INSIDE 16 pages of Panthers news, views and a whole heap more!

WHAT A VOICE! The entire Penrith community is getting behind Elyse Sene-Lefao, after the local singer produced a chair-turning performance on ‘The Voice’ last weekend. Emily Feszczuk reports on page 41.

CLASSROOM F TO JAIL CELL

ALENA HIGGINS

ormer teacher Gavin Duncan will spend Christmas and New Year’s Eve behind bars after he was jailed for having sex with a student. Duncan, 33, of Jamisontown, was sentenced to 15 months’ jail with a seven- month non- parole period on Tuesday morning after pleading guilty to three counts of

‘sexual intercourse with a young person under his special care’. At the time of the offending, Duncan was working at an Upper Blue Mountains high school and was the 17- year- old’s school mentor. Penrith District Court heard the victim would attend Duncan’s classroom regularly during breaks to discuss school and non-school issues. Story continues on » p. 3

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Friday, June 19, 2020 Â« the western weekender

Jamisontown man jailed over relationship with teen Story continued from » front page Over time their conversations became flirtatious. In December 2017, Duncan provided the victim with his mobile phone number and the pair began texting. The offences, which occurred between June 9 and July 1, 2018, all took place at Duncan’s former Glenmore Park home. As the complainant was leaving following the first incident, Duncan told her to “wear a skirt to school the next day, so he could f**k her in the classroom”, agreed facts reveal. The court heard the pair continued their relationship after the complainant turned 18 on July 12, 2018. However, by mid-May 2019, rumours of the sexual relationship were circulating and Duncan was spoken to by the principal. When the complainant asked him what they should do about the situation he said “deny, deny, deny”, agreed facts disclose. On June 21 he was suspended from the school and by July 4 he was arrested and charged. In an interview with police, Duncan said he was the complainant’s Year 8 maths teacher in 2014 and her mentor in 2018. He described their relationship as “a strong friendship” and one that had been

building as she grew older. He initially told police their relationship had not extended beyond friends while they were at school and that they had not engaged in sexual intercourse until she turned 18. On Tuesday, Judge Sharon Harris found the only appropriate sentence was one of full-time imprisonment. She was not satisfied evidence of grooming was involved and said the offences did not have an air of planning. She also accepted Duncan was “genuinely saddened” by the psychological harm he had caused the complainant. However she said fault rested “exclusively” with the offender, who was in a position of trust while the victim was “demonstrably impressionable”. “He well knew what he was doing was wrong”, she said, noting on one occasion he told the complainant “everything about this is so wrong, but this feels so f**king good” while they were having sex. Last week, Duncan’s barrister Paul Rowe submitted a three- year good behaviour bond with community service was within range. Mr Rowe cited a psychologist report which found Duncan was suffering from an “undiagnosed complex bereavement disorder”, stemming from the death of his mother and cousin several years ago,

which compromised his judgement and decision making. In the witness box last week, Duncan claimed to be under the influence of alcohol during at least two of the three incidences. When asked how he felt about having put the victim through all of this, Duncan become emotional, saying “terrible, absolutely terrible” before breaking down in tears. Due to it being a sex offence, Duncan was not eligible to serve his jail sentence in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order. He is eligible for release on January 15, 2021. D u n c a n previously taught at Glenmore Park and Blaxland high schools. Gavin Duncan arrives at court on Tuesday. Photo: Megan Dunn.

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

Teacher slept with student

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

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Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Don’t let whinge brigade win G eorge Orwell once said (or didn’t say, depending on who you believe), “the most effective way to destroy people is to deny and obliterate their own understanding of their history”. The most dangerous thing about the ‘cancel culture’, which over the past couple of weeks has engulfed everything from classic movies and TV shows to bands and cheese (yes, cheese), is that it suggests a re- writing of history and pretending something didn’t happen can alleviate serious issues at hand. Worse, perhaps, it robs younger generations of the proper understanding of how far we’ve come, or haven’t come, on said issues, and suggests that we should judge the past on current standards and values. And it problematically hints that altering history is as easy as deleting one of those awkward Facebook memories that pops up on your profile every day. History can’t be altered, of course. It is what it is. But in 2020, hiding it is in vogue, even if only parts of that history may be problematic. In the wake of the Black Live Matters protests and movement, the avalanche of outrage has begun. A streaming service in the US removed ‘Gone With The Wind’ (albeit temporarily) because the 1939 movie, set in the late 1800s, has “racist depictions”. ‘Little Britain’ has been erased too, by Netflix, which has also booted Australian comedian Chris Lilley’s shows. There’s calls for statues and monuments to be removed, as if the people being honoured did no good at all. Those complaining have meticulously researched each individual, of course.

Index

Decades- old sketches, long- forgotten, are bizarrely being resurfaced to prove some kind of point. A record label changed its name. Country music group Lady Antebellum changed its name too, dropping the word ‘Antebellum’, which is Latin for ‘before war’. The band was named after an architectural style. They’ll be named Lady A from now on – until the word Lady is deemed offensive, which shouldn’t be too far away. And the best of the best, Australian comedian (I use the term loosely) Josh Thomas wants Coon cheese banned, because erasing the name of its creator is far better than calling for anyone who uses the word in a disparaging way to be hauled over the coals. When I’ve had conversations about this topic over the past week people have expected me to join them in anger about their rights to watch these ‘cancelled’ shows being taken away, about our sense of humour being stolen and about people not being able to ‘take a joke’ or understand satire, or context. All that may be true, but that’s not really what I’m upset about. What I’m angry about is that we have turned an important, teachable moment in history into displays of political correctness and virtue signalling. The race conversation will now join the modern equality and feminism movements in being dominated by frivolous, useless debates that miss the entire point. And instead of being able to teach and inform, we’ll now waste time defending movies and TV shows (and bloody cheese), while much of society will see

News..............................................1-22 Extra Time...........................23-38 Business........................................39

what the whole thing has descended into and choose to ignore, rather than embrace, the movement. Worse, they may revolt against it. All because a bunch of privileged executives and celebrities were swamped with guilt. Well done guys – you’ve made the whole thing worse and hijacked what should have been a pivotal moment in history. Yet again, we’ve blown everything out of proportion. Minor mistakes, slight misjudgments or out of context clips from the past become major scandals, helped along by an obedient mainstream media desperate for clicks and a social media generation that likes to curate every bit of life with filters and re-takes. HBO Max shouldn’t be ashamed of ‘Gone With The Wind’. It should instead be proud of the content it has that embraces diversity. Proud of the documentaries it may house on black history. If it doesn’t have any, or enough of them, that’s where its focus should be – not on a moment of virtue signalling. Removing or altering the past is never the solution. More education is. And movies, monuments, songs and people who represent the very things we’re fighting against need to be part of the process, ugly as it may be at times. If we’re going to allow the confected outrage machine to win, it’s the end of reason. Whacking a filter on the past or pressing the delete button is surely not the way we want the next generation to learn about history – good and bad. We can all do better, but surely pressing the cancel button on everything isn’t the answer.

Snips & Snaps..........................40 Entertainment...................41-46 Weekender Living..........47-51

Business Directory.......52-54 Sport .......................................55-60

Staying Safe

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

the western weekender

Plans for $2.6 billion Mamre Road Precinct approved NICOLA BARTON

ore local jobs are on the horizon after the State Government approved plans for a major industrial precinct at Kemps Creek. The $2.6 billion Mamre Road Precinct is one of 12 key precincts in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, which will unlock 850 hectares of new industrial land and see the creation of public spaces. The project will offer more than 5,200 jobs during the construction phase. Premier Gladys Berejiklian met with Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes and Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres at the site last Thursday to announce the project’s approval. Ms Berejiklian said the green light for the precinct is a significant step forward in securing western Sydney’s future as a global hub for logistics and advanced manufacturing. “We’re getting on with the job of building a new city around the airport well before the first plane takes off,” she said. “This land release will provide opportunities for international and domestic businesses to invest in western Sydney, enabling major warehousing, logistics,

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

Kemps Creek jobs boom

An artist’s impression of part the Mamre Road Precinct, which is set to open next year. manufacturing and circular economy operations to be established. “It will also bring a huge jobs boost to the region, creating opportunities for more than 5,200 jobs during the construction phase alone.” The Mamre Road Precinct was one of 24 projects included in Tranche 2 of the NSW Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program, which sees projects fast-tracked to keep the economy moving

and ensure jobs availability during the COVID-19 crisis. The precinct will also include 50 hectares of open space, including new cycling and walking paths that will open up previously inaccessible land to the public. A further 70 hectares of conservation land, including the Cumberland Plain Woodland, will also be protected. Mr Ayres said the rezoning is another milestone in the transformation of the

Western Parkland City: “We already have interested businesses from the transport and logistics, pharmaceutical and data storage industries ready to move into the precinct and capitalise on its future connections to local, regional and overseas markets.” The first industrial estates for the Mamre Road Precinct are expected to be occupied from mid- 2021. For more details, visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/mamreroad.

Coles Penrith welcomes store upgrade The update reveals an upgraded Coles supermarket, complete with welcome additions to the existing bakery and deli that are sure to delight local shoppers. The better than ever Coles Penrith has made exciting improvements to its store in response to community demand for fresh and versatile food offerings. The innovative updates to the bakery and deli provide an updated shopping experience for Penrith customers with a focus on fresh. Shoppers will be treated to deli delights such as fresh cut smallgoods and cheeses, as well as a flatbread machine producing cooked in store flatbreads in the bakery, complimenting existing bakery delights such as delicious baked in store pastries and Australian made sourdough. Coles Penrith store manager Matthew Grundy says about the upgrades to his store, “Our customers are so excited about our updated store, particularly the freshly made flatbreads in our bakery and the

addition of the new Click&Collect car spaces so that our Click&Collect customers don’t need to leave their cars”. Cooked in front of customers, the fresh made flatbreads are available in both white and wholemeal varieties. The flatbreads made in store are a delicious and versatile bakery product. Great as a school lunchbox option for even the fussiest kids, the flatbreads can be served with meats, salads or spreads in a wrap, as a pizza base, or served with dips. They’re even delicious as a decadent choc-filled treat for all of the sweet tooths! The updates to the Penrith store provide an even easier and more enjoyable shopping experience for customers than ever before, and complement existing services, like Click&Collect. The Penrith Click&Collect service offers minimal contact shopping for time-pressured customers. The addition of the new Click&Collect car spaces means customers can place their order online and have

Bakery manager Jennie Wright heads up a team of bakers producing delicious baked goods such as cookies and flatbreads. their shopping delivered directly to their car. With same day turnaround on all orders before 11am, the Click&Collect service at Coles Penrith is designed to take the pressure off busy customers. Coles Penrith is located in the Nepean Village Shopping Centre, cnr Station St and Macquarie St.

WW40883

Coles has this week unveiled the newly refurbished Penrith store.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 Â« the western weekender

Jordan Springs Public School completed and ready to start lessons from next term NICOLA BARTON

he long anticipated Jordan Springs Public School is finally completed and ready to open for the start of Term 3 next month. The state- of- the- art facility will enrol up to 600 students but has the capacity to extend for an additional 400 children as the area grows. So far 200 students have enrolled. Premier Gladys Berejikian met with Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell and Penrith MP Stuart Ayres on Monday to discuss the project. “Even during a pandemic we have continued to build schools across NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said. “No matter where you live or what your circumstances are, all students deserve access to world class education. “This school is a great symbol of what’s to come in the future, a great symbol of resilience and a great symbol of what’s possible when we come together to deliver state-of-the-art facilities.” Despite the school being first announced in 2015, Ms Berejiklian said the project was “ahead of schedule”. The school was built with new innovative technology which saw the majority of

the building put together off site and lifted by cranes into place. “For the first time in NSW, we’re harnessing a new way of building schools. 95 per cent of the school is constructed off site reducing the on-site build time to weeks,” Ms Mitchell said. “The construction method will be used in select locations, meaning we can deliver new, high quality schools with minimal disruption to those communities.” The new school will provide 27 permanent classrooms, a school hall, a library, a covered outdoor learning area as well as administrative and staff facilities. Mr Ayres said the quick off site building method will help fast-track infrastructure projects in the future. “We know western Sydney is one of the fastest growing populations anywhere in the country and the NSW Government is delivering across the Penrith and northwest areas 19 new and upgraded schools to meet that population growth,” he said. Labor MP Prue Car welcomed news of the school’s upcoming opening, but said the process had taken too long. “The community has had to fight for this school. It should have been ready years ago when it was first needed, and now there is still no plan for a high school,” she said.

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

New school springs to life

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian tours the new school. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Gas installation process at hospital raises questions

ore than half of the 14 workers who installed medical gas as part of the new $1 billion Nepean Hospital redevelopment were unqualified, according to reports surfacing this week. Records obtained by Channel Nine revealed five of the workers are plumbers and residential gas fitters, one is an electrician, and seven are without a trade at all. Labor and Union officials are questioning the practice after a gas mix- up at Bankstown Hospital in 2016 killed a newborn baby and left another with lifelong brain injuries. Currently in NSW, medical gas installations aren’t licensed or regulated by the government. NSW State Secretary of the Plumbing Trades Employee’s Union, Theo Samartzopoulos, said that has to change. “We are lobbying the government to introduce a Mechanical Services and Medical Gas Licence and Regulation, this is what the Queensland Govern-

ment did following from the tragedy at Bankstown Hospital,” he said. This is a Certificate III trade course. NSW Labor introduced a bill to legislate this licence which was debated in Parliament on Wednesday. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the State Government will make sure those undertaking this work are qualified through regulation instead. “Legislation will take longer than regulation,” she said. On Tuesday, Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation, Kevin Anderson, introduced the Gas Legislation Amendment Bill 2020, which involves a licencing system ensuring only qualified professionals can install gas in medical facilities. The State Government will be implementing regulations to incorporate specific medical gases into the regime under the Gas and Electricity Safety Act. A Health Infrastructure spokesperson said the work undertaken at Nepean Hospital is being done by qualified tradespeople, supported by apprentices, and that all outlets are tested to ensure correct installation.

More capacity on public transport Passenger capacity on public transport will be doubled from next month as further restrictions are eased in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The increased capacity is likely to see more people return to the office. New rules around social distancing will still be in force.

Major earthworks continuing for Western Sydney Airport Major earthworks are underway and involve moving up to 25 million cubic metres of earth to support construction of the key elements of the airport, including the runway and passenger terminal. This project is being delivered by the CPB Contractors and Lendlease Joint Venture (CPBLLJV) on behalf of Western Sydney Airport.

Construction works Over the coming months construction activities will include major earthworks, construction of maintenance workshops, temporary basins and haul roads; topsoil stripping, aboriginal heritage and salvage work, vegetation clearing, mobilisation of earth moving equipment, dewatering preexisting waterways and dams, removal of existing utilities and fences, and relocation of native plants.

Construction hours Construction hours will be from 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturday.

Out-of-hours work There are some out of hours works required to support main construction. This work will take place from: • M onday to Friday between 5 am to 8pm and S aturday between 8 a m t o 5pm for preparation and shutdown earthworks. • M onday to Sunday between 5 am to 11pm for maintenance workshops. M onday to Friday between 6am to 6pm • for vegetation clearing M onday to Sunday between 6 pm to • 6am to import sandstone, deliver heavy machinery and equipment, vehicle maintenance, survey, and testing activities. These works may cause a little noise; however, we will make every effort to minimise impact to local residents.

Traffic control For your safety, please be aware of temporary speed zones and follow directions of signage and traffic controllers as required. For more information please contact:

Western Sydney Airport Ph: 1800 972 972 info@wsaco.com.au westernsydney.com.au WW41129

NICOLA BARTON

Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

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A new community facility tailored to help marginalised and vulnerable women in western Sydney has been foreshadowed for St Marys. BaptistCare is hoping to turn a property at 38 Gidley Street into a Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services centre, expanding its reach in the Penrith area. BaptistCare HopeStreet Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services manager, Jess Davidson, said the not- for- profit organisation was committed to supporting the vulnerable and disadvantaged. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With a new premises being opened in August/September, pending the Development Application (DA) approval, the new BaptistCare HopeStreet Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Space will allow women to have a safe and homelike space to relax, connect with others and be able to access free and practical support like showers, laundry facilities and food support,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Women (including transgender women) can also access free, holistic and confidential professional support through a range of services, including workshops and skills- based classes, drop-in support, outreach, counselling and case management, safe- sex kits and assistance with accessing health and government services.â&#x20AC;? Ms Davidson said the core aims are to provide a sense of safety, increase the choices available to women facing difficult circumstances, and enhance a sense of belonging for the women who use the space. â&#x20AC;&#x153;BaptistCare HopeStreet Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services welcomes and works with all women, but have particular focus on women experiencing marginalisation and disadvantage, in particular women experiencing homelessness, women experiencing domestic and family violence, and women in the sex industry, particularly those from migrant backgrounds,â&#x20AC;? she said. According to the DA, the facility will operate during normal business hours Monday to Friday and a team of five staff and one volunteer will oversee the provision of support services. Group workshops will cover a range of topics including budgeting, healthy living, self care, communication skills, self esteem, healthy eating/cooking, resume writing, make up and body image and living with purpose. The facility will also provide exit options to women who want to leave the sex industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited to be able to have a space that women can access, get the support they need and grow in confidence and skills to achieve their goals,â&#x20AC;? Ms Davidson said. BaptistCare HopeStreet already has a local premises in Penrith. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Alena Higgins

Nepean Hospital and Western Sydney University have launched a health care study for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders people. The project will use patient and carer stories to improve palliative care and other health services. Wiradjuri man and healthcare worker, Clarke Scott said while discussing life-

limiting illnesses is a difficult topic, the experiences will help shape future services. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We really need the help of the Aboriginal community to tell us what has worked and what hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worked so we can provide the services the Aboriginal community needs,â&#x20AC;? Mr Scott said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you to the people who will bravely share their personal stories with us.â&#x20AC;? People participating in the study can be interviewed via telephone or video call. Contact 0431 702 991 or email g.e.mcdonald@westernsydney.edu.au to take part in the project.

DESIGNATED & INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL Penrith City Council has received a Development

â&#x20AC;˘ Ellie Abraham Barikhan

DA20/0262

Application in respect of the subject property seeking

Lot 5 DP 655046 (No. 344) Park Road, Wallacia

consent for a Resource Recovery Facility for processing

Proposed resource recovery facility

a maximum of 95,000 tonnes per year of Construction and Demolition (C&D) and Commercial and Industrial (C&I) waste including conversion of an existing dwelling WR DQ RIĂ&#x20AC;FH LQWHUQDO GULYHZD\V FDU DQG WUXFN SDUNLQJ areas and associated infrastructure. The consent authority for the Development Application is the Sydney Western City Planning Panel in accordance with Section 2.15 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The proposal is Designated Development under Section 4.10 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS

The proposal is Designated Development under Section 4.10 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The proposal is also Integrated Development under Section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. In this regard, the applicant is seeking concurrent approval from the NSW Environment Protection Authority under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 and from the NSW Rural Fire Service under the Rural Fires Act 1997. The Development Application and supporting documents FDQ EH YLHZHG RQ 3HQULWK &RXQFLOÂˇV '$ 7UDFNHU DW penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DAtracker

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Closing Date: 6 July 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ RJ Bentley Pty Ltd

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INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT

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

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in respect of the subject property. In accordance with

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Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrith.city

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The proposed new location on Gidley Street. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Health project aims to improve palliative care and services

the western weekender Âť Friday, June 19, 2020

More support for local women

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

Now the ‘cancel culture’ has hit the humble beer. Colonial Brewing Co may change its name after two Melbourne liquor stores threatened to take it off the shelves as the word ‘colonial’ may be offensive. You couldn’t make this stuff up!

my Penrith

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

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week! This week’s lucky winners are: 0088, 7477, 6202.

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FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Happy Inn. FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Platform T8. FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Penrith Panthers. FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Panthers Stadium for a footy game. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? I love how everything in the CBD is centrally located. I live within walking distance of the train station, Westfield, gyms, cafes and restaurants. WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The cupcakes at Mrs C’s Cupcakes are up there with some of the best I’ve tried. They make some amazing cakes for that special occasion as well.

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Once-popular sport disappears from Penrith after closure of Werrington centre EMILY FESZCZUK

he Coronavirus pandemic has squashed a community sport of 35 years with the Werrington Squash and Fitness Centre now permanently closed after the forced lockdown. Business partners Dennis Spicer and Rebecca Rock said the restrictions were the final nail in the coffin for the struggling business. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have run the courts for over 25 years and Becky ran the gym for the last 15 and things had really slowed down before but when we closed our doors on March 23, we knew we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t re-open,â&#x20AC;? Mr Spicer told the Weekender. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We rented the building so with overheads and no income it became unmanageable plus we are getting older and are dealing with health issues, so it was time for us to leave.â&#x20AC;? Mr Spicer, who had campaigned in 2013 for the sport of squash to be included in the 2020 Olympic Games, said the decline was due to lack of support. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Squash is such a good way to stay active and be social and it is still going ahead everywhere else in the world but in Australia it is practically dead,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The government doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t push sports

Rebecca Rock and Dennis Spicer at the squash court in Werrington. Photo: Megan Dunn.

in education so, when schools donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it, younger people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get exposed to it to take an interest.â&#x20AC;? While the pair said it was a tough decision to close the courts for good, Ms Rock said they are thankful to the loyal customers over the years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was very hard for all of us as we made so many friends who played squash that turned into a good little family at the centre,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The building has been already sold by the owner for more shops in the future, but we will have to organise a proper party soon with everyone to say goodbye.â&#x20AC;? The Weekender understands that a real estate agent has been actively engaged to look for a potential new operator for the courts in what could be a last ditch bid to save the sport in Penrith. For now, fans who want to flex their racquet skills will need to be prepared to travel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are still squash courts at Northmead, Rooty Hill, TLC at Toongabbie and Baulkham Hills, but they only do morning, ladies and in-house comps â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not night competitions which are very popular,â&#x20AC;? Ms Rock said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are talks about pennant competitions being held in Springwood, which will still be a fair amount of travel.â&#x20AC;?

the western weekender Âť Friday, June 19, 2020

Last call for squash court

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Aboriginal students play role in Nepean Hospital overhaul

Labor pushes Government to honour election commitment NICOLA BARTON

Toora Randall, Thalia Blacklock and Ryan Jones are building their trade skills.

EMILY FESZCZUK

ocal students are building their skills to launch their trade careers by being part of the Nepean Hospital redevelopment. The Diz Footprints program offers Year 10 Aboriginal students work experience across a range of construction trades while working on the project. With the help of local Aboriginal education consultants and construction contractors, CPB, students from St Clair,

Cambridge Park, Glenmore Park and Kingswood high schools are involved. Working towards Certificate II construction qualifications and postschool employment, Penrith MP Stuart Ayres said it is a unique opportunity for students to work on one of the state’s biggest hospital infrastructure projects. “This is a great initiative for our local Aboriginal high school students, who will receive first- hand experience from professionals working across a wide range of trades such as landscaping, painting, carpentry and labouring,” he said.

tate Labor officials are demanding the promised Glenmore Park Service NSW centre be delivered sooner rather than later to create more job opportunities in the post COVID- 19 economy. The Weekender revealed earlier this year that residents would have to wait another three years before the centre, which Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies promised during her State Election campaign last year, would be delivered. Ms Davies confirmed a site is still yet to be secured for the centre, more than a year on from the commitment. Shadow Minister for Better Public Services Sophie Cotsis said the commitment needs to be honoured now. “The NSW Government should honour its election promise and deliver the new Service NSW Centres as quickly as possible,” she said. Ms Cotsis also stressed how important access to government services is during this uncertain period. “Demand for Service NSW assistance surged during the bushfires and the COVID-19 crisis,” she said. “Delivering these new Service NSW centres will create jobs and make it easier for people to access services.” Ms Davies said the Government has fast-tracked other projects to support the economy and create jobs.

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies. “We are fast- tracking rezoning of land and development opportunities to increase local jobs and boost the local economy,” she said. “The NSW Government has delivered over $10 billion to support families and businesses in response to COVID-19.” Ms Davies said the State Government is still working with Glenmore Park Town Centre management to identify a suitable location for the centre. She said the community will be kept updated as the project progresses. Glenmore Park locals currently have to travel into Penrith to access their nearest Service NSW centre.

Police to receive more help on mental health call-outs

Detective Inspector Jason Pietruszka welcomes the support. Photo: Megan Dunn.

EMILY FESZCZUK

WW40730

epean Police and Ambulance officers will receive help at mental health incidents from a team of nurses under a new program. Under the $6 million investment, 36 clinicians will be employed to assist 10 Police Area Commands in NSW. Nepean Police Area Command Detective Inspector Jason Pietruszka said the Police, Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (PACER) Program will help officers with situations like crisis intervention.

“Nepean is extremely happy to have this service available to our officers and [it] will be of great benefit to the members of the community first and foremost,” he said. “They can attend to assist in de- escalating situations and Police can also have direct phone contact with the mental health nurses for guidance and assistance for particular incidents.” Despite the strong results of the pilot program, which was trialled in the St George area, Labor is concerned, saying that a senior NSW Ministry of Health official confirmed the funding will end in June 2021.

the western weekender Âť Friday, June 19, 2020

Protecting the community and supporting jobs and business The COVID-19 pandemic presents an unprecedented challenge for our economy The NSW Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number one focus is to safeguard the health of our people but we also need to protect jobs and support the economy. NSW has provided over $10 billion in economic support designed to protect the community and support jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Increased Health Funding 3 Boosting our health system by providing an extra $800 million, including significantly expanding our intensive care.

Tax Relief for Business 3 Support NSW businesses through a $4 billion Payroll Tax Relief Package, including $450 million of payroll tax waived.

Supporting Small Business 3 $10,000 grants for small businesses struggling with COVID-19. 3 Land tax relief for landlords passing on rental relief to small commercial tenants. 3 Waiving a range of fees for small businesses.

Supporting Local Jobs 3 Hiring an extra 1000 people to work at Service NSW. 3 Hiring an extra 3000 full-time cleaners. 3 Boosting employment by bringing forward $500 million of capital works and maintenance.

Support for the Vulnerable 3 Land tax relief for landlords passing on rental relief to residential tenants. 3 Protecting renters financially disadvantaged by COVID-19 through a six-month ban on residential evictions. 3 Boosting temporary accommodation and private rental assistance packages. 3 Increasing our help to households with their energy bills. 3 Boosting mental health services, including 180 additional mental health workers.

Where can I get further information? Further information on all COVID-19 related matters can be found on the nsw.gov.au website or by calling the 24/7 hotline on 13 77 88.

The Hon

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

Phone 4722 8660 Fax 4731 4782 Email penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Mail PO Box 4006, Penrith Plaza, NSW 2750 Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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Pregnant woman loses baby in tragic crash; man avoids jail

A motorist who caused the death of an unborn child when he feel asleep at the wheel has narrowly avoided full-time imprisonment. Kobi Drew Smith, 20, was running late for work and travelling along Luddenham Road in August 2018 when he dozed off, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a pregnant driver travelling north. The woman, who was 13 weeks pregnant at the time, was trapped inside and subsequently suffered a ruptured amniotic sac as a result of the accident. She delivered her baby stillborn at 21 weeks. Smith, who pleaded guilty to ‘negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm’, told Penrith Local Court during sworn evidence on Friday that he had been working 14-hour shifts as a concreter for two weeks in the lead-up the crash. He told police at the time he had begun feeling tired about three quarters of the way into his journey, and was going to pull over for a coffee but didn’t have any money. Smith acknowledged it would be heartbreaking for the woman and said he felt “shattered” for her. His lawyer submitted that while the objective seriousness of the injury was towards the higher end, his moral culpability was not, noting his driving did not involve alcohol, drugs, speed or other factors such as checking his mobile phone. He also reminded Magistrate Brian van Zuylen that common law did not allow him to deal with the death of the unborn child as a homicide, but rather as grievous bodily harm to the woman. As sensitively as he could, the lawyer submitted that while the victim would no doubt experience long term psychological trauma, she suffered no permanent physical injuries as a result of the crash. Magistrate van Zuylen said he considered it the “most grave” type of ‘negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm’

that can come before the court. “Your negligence is swerving onto the wrong side of the road and hitting a pregnant woman, whose pregnancy ended as a result of your acts,” he said. He said whatever happened today, it would likely be the end of it for Smith, but the victim would have a “lifelong consideration of what might have happened”. He took into account Smith’s plea of guilty, young age and disadvantaged upbringing before granting him leniency by allowing him to serve his 12-month prison sentence in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order. However, he declined to reduce the automatic five-year driving ban to three years.

Woman avoids jail after police find drugs in granny flat

An Emu Plains woman caught with an indictable quantity of drugs has been spared time behind bars due to her prior clean record. A pregnant Brooke Emma Hely, 26, faced Penrith Local Court on Friday after pleading guilty to two counts of ‘deemed supply/supply prohibited drug’. The court heard police attended her Nepean Street granny flat she shared with her partner on June 15, 2019 for the purposes of executing a firearm prohibition compliance check, after her partner was served a firearms prohibition order in 2018. While there, officers discovered a host of drugs including 5.98g of MDMA in capsule and powder form and 54.53g of methamphetamine. $5,900 in cash was also located, as was a small amount of cocaine and 18 buprenorphine patches. Her lawyer pointed out that while the quantity of drugs was above the indictable quantity, it was well below the commercial quantity. She also submitted there was no “indicia of supply” – no drug ledgers, multi-

ple mobile phones, bags or anything to support that Hely was actually selling the drugs. But Magistrate Brian van Zuylen was quick to question the $5,900 cash suspected of being illegally obtained. “What am I to make of that?” he posed to her lawyer. Her lawyer submitted it was winnings from the poker machines and said Hely was in the entertainment industry and told police it was profits from her business. The court heard Hely was raised in a pro-social household, but had been experimenting with drugs since she turned 18. Her lawyer said the offender, who is six months pregnant, had distanced herself from negative associates and changed professions since learning she was pregnant. Magistrate van Zuylen took into account she had never been in trouble with the criminal law before. He said he hoped she might reflect on the enormous cost illegal drugs has on society, citing the criminality, the health issues, the cost of policing it, the poisoning of the environment in making it and the courts enforcing it all. “You’re the one contributing to it,” he scolded. “If you and others lead a law abiding life the industry would die, wouldn’t it?” She was fined $3,200 and sentenced to 18-months’ jail to be served in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order (ICO). She must abstain from illegal drugs as a condition of the ICO.

Man was ‘disorientated’ when he attacked nurse and guard

A man who assaulted a security guard and police officer after waking from surgery has been jailed for eight months. Terrence Leroy, 25, appeared before Penrith Local Court via video link on Friday and pleaded guilty to ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’, intimidate

police’ and ‘assault police’. His lawyer said Leroy accepted he had acted “foolishly” on the day, but submitted he had woken up in hospital “in pain and quite disorientated”. The court heard Leroy had been arrested after failing to comply with his good behaviour bonds and was taken to hospital due to an injury to his left hand. When he woke from surgery, Leroy began swearing at a female nurse. Police, who were waiting outside, entered the room and, along with a security guard, attempted to handcuff him to the bed. But Leroy resisted, spitting and kicking towards the police officer. When the security guard tried to hold down his legs, the offender kicked him to his face. He also threatened the officers, saying “I’ll look for you when I get out, you’re f**ked”. Magistrate Brian van Zuylen was scathing, telling Leroy the nurse was only trying to help him and he behaved in a “disgraceful and appalling manner”. His lawyer pointed out Leroy had no history of assaulting and resisting police, reiterating her original submission that he was disorientated. She also noted he had been on remand since February 3 – the longest period of time he has spent in custody. “He hopes to return to work, remain abstinent from drugs and be a positive role model for his kids,” she said. Magistrate van Zuylen noted his young age. “You’re still a young man, you shouldn’t receive a crushing sentence,” he said. He revoked the good behaviour bonds and sentenced him to a one-month fixed term instead. He also provided a non-parole period equivalent to time already served. Leroy was ecstatic when he realised he would be released that day. “You’re an absolute legend,” he exclaimed.

WW39709

Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R

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

LegalMatters

Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

Penrith: Man dies after car crashes into telegraph pole

A 34-year-old man tragically lost his life in a single vehicle crash last weekend. Emergency services were called to Lethbridge Street, Penrith, about 3.25pm on Sunday, June 14 after reports a Mitsubishi sedan had crashed into a pole. The driver died at the scene. Officers from Nepean Police Area Command established a crime scene and are investigating the crash. A report will be prepared for the Coroner. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

St Marys: Man hid under house after crashing car into shop

A man has been charged after crashing into a shop front when attempting to evade police. About 9.30pm on Saturday, June 13 police attempted to stop a Ford Mustang Coupe on Glossop Street, St Marys. The driver, a 31-year-old man, allegedly failed to stop before the car crashed into a vacant shop front. The man fled the scene on foot, and officers from Nepean Police Area Command commenced a search of the area with assistance from the Dog Unit and PolAir. Police arrested the man a short time later after he was found under a house on Adelaide Street, St Marys. He was taken to St Marys Police Station and charged with ‘drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous’, ‘drive motor vehicle during disqualification period’, ‘not give particulars to owner of

damaged property’, two counts of ‘enter enclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse’ and ‘resist officer in execution of duty’. He was refused bail and appeared before Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday, June 14.

Londonderry: OMCG member charged with firearms offences

A senior member of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG) faced court following the seizure of a firearm, ammunition and a prohibited weapon in Londonderry. Officers attached to the State Crime Command’s Criminal Group Squad under Strike Force Raptor searched a Londonderry home about 7.35am on Thursday, June 11, where they located and seized an air pistol, air rifle pellets and machete blade with a knuckle guard. Following inquiries, a 39-year-old man, who is currently subject to a Firearms and Weapons Prohibition Order, was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station. He was charged with ‘possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit’, ‘possess unauthorised pistol’, ‘not keep firearm safely’, ‘acquire etc ammunition subject to firearms prohibition order’, ‘acquire etc pistol subject to firearms prohibition order’, and ‘use prohibited weapon contrary to weapons prohibition order’. The man was refused bail and appeared at Penrith Local Court on the same day as his arrest, where he was formally bail refused to re-appear at the same court on Friday, August 7.

Jamisontown: Business raided as part of drug operation

Police have executed a search warrant on an Altair Place, Jamisontown business as part of a seven-year investigation into alleged drug importation. Five men have been arrested at locations across Sydney and overseas in connection to the police operation.

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

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Explainer: What’s NCAT? You have probably heard the term “NCAT” or “the Tribunal” before, but we often field enquiries from clients as to what NCAT is and how it might assist them. NCAT stands for the “NSW Civil & Administrative Tribunal”. It is a forum in which parties can deal with legal disputes without the need for legal representation. In fact, lawyers are not even allowed to appear at NCAT without first seeking permission to do so. Even then, parties need to demonstrate that the amount in dispute is substantial (usually over $30,000) and/or that there are complex questions of law or fact that require the assistance of lawyers to be appropriately presented to the Tribunal. The forum is designed so that parties can deal with their disputes themselves, avoiding the often significant costs of lawyers and keeping things simple. By and large however, because the Tribunal is dealing with the interpretation and application of legislation, lawyers are often involved. We have represented many clients in the NCAT jurisdiction in circumstances where, due to the nature and complexity of their dispute, they simply have not had the ability to represent themselves. NCAT is made up of a number of divisions that deal with different types of disputes, including: • The Consumer and Commercial division which deals with everyday disputes such as tenancy and other residential property issues and dispute about goods and services. • The Guardianship division which determines applications about people

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Couples face ongoing uncertainty as dancing remains off the agenda at receptions NICOLA BARTON

wedding without ‘The Nutbush’? That’s the sacrifice brides and grooms will have to make if they plan to push ahead with booked weddings, with dance floors remaining off the agenda for now. With restrictions changing almost daily, many couples have been left in limbo and facing uncertainty over whether they should push ahead with their weddings, which are generally booked months if not years in advance, or postpone them. Last Sunday, Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that from July 1 weddings would be able to welcome an unlimited number of guests that fit the four per square metre rule inside a venue. However, those with more than 20 guests must sacrifice the dance floor, stating guests must be seated. Glenmore Park bridal hairdresser and owner of Transformhairz, Hayley Holmes, said clients and those in the industry remain in limbo. “When you’re a wedding vendor or any part of the industry, you’re such a big part of their day and it’s very fulfilling to feel that so, when all of that went, it was very upsetting,” she said.

Transformhairz owner Hayley Holmes with a bride. Photo: Daniel Griffiths Photography. “A lot of brides just didn’t know what to do, some have found a new date but others are just sitting ducks. Even with the new regulations, no one really knows what’s happening or what to do.” During the height of the pandemic, Ms Holmes had to postpone 20 bridal appointments and cancel three. As a result, she’s lost around $20,000 in revenue. “I’ve definitely felt the crunch but I’ve been lucky that hairdressing wasn’t closed

down so I could get people into the salon, whereas make- up artists, photographers and caterers have really felt the impact,” she said. Ms Berejiklian said the wedding restrictions were based on overseas as well as local experience. “Those larger events where a lot of people are in close proximity for a long period of time is where the virus has the greatest capacity to spread,” she said.

Photo: Nicole Clark Photography. As it stands, weddings with 20 people or less are allowed to have a dance floor, however should seat family members together and refrain from physical gifts, sharing food and using the same pen for a guest book. If hosts choose to have more guests or full capacity, no dance floors or any physical activities may occur. All attendees are also encouraged to download the COVIDSafe app.

WW41089

Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

Weddings face dance ban

The beer is flowing at local pubs and clubs, but live music still remains silenced NICOLA BARTON

hilst pubs and clubs are beginning to return to some form of normality, most are still not offering live music performances. With no real timeline as to when bands can hit the stage again, many artists are suffering as a result. Some restaurants, such as Emu Hall and Lone Star, have begun offering solo acoustic performances, however larger venues like Penrith RSL Club, Panthers Penrith, St Marys Leagues Club, St Marys RSL Club and St Marys Diggers and Band Club have no live music. Venue owners say the social distancing limitations and uncertain economic climate are reasons behind the decision to keep live music on ice. “At the moment we cannot justify providing entertainment, we are still in the process of assessing the impact the closure had,” St Marys Diggers and Band Club CEO, Marlene Shipley said. “It’s a little too early for us to determine a return date.” The club normally has a Friday night rock and roll band, Saturday night live music, and a show in their auditorium once every quarter.

“At the Diggers site, Friday night would be a duo and we had just started trialling a live DJ on a Saturday night,” Ms Shipley said. St Marys Leagues Club isn’t offering performances either, especially with dance floors not permitted under the current rules. CEO Rod Desborough said it was also due to social distancing guidelines and room capacities. “We would love to see live bands back in our club and will do so as soon as all restrictions have been lifted,” he said. Female rock band The Toxic Dolls, who frequently have gigs at both Penrith RSL Club and St Marys Leagues, said the impact of COVID-19 has been tough. “We generally do between seven and eight gigs a month, we are a very busy band. When COVID- 19 hit we had a full calendar booked in that was all then cancelled,” band member Nikki Thoroughgood said. “A lot of the girls rely on this as their sole income and they weren’t eligible for any financial support. “We need a definite or at least an estimated start for bands from the State Government so we at least have a light at the end of the tunnel. It’s hard to keep morale up at the moment.”

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

We can’t hear the music

The Toxic Dolls band have missed out on plenty of gigs recently.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

Smart Pup could save Jaxon’s life EMILY FESZCZUK

hey say dogs are man’s best friend but for Thornton toddler Jaxon Stimpson, having a dog could save his life. The three- year- old has Type 1 Diabetes, which an accredited assistance dog could help with. Jaxon’s mother, Tanika Stimpson, said it is a struggle every day to manage the potentially life-threatening disease. “He has had health issues right from when he was born and, at two-years-old, he was diagnosed with diabetes, so he requires constant checking to manage it with food or insulin injections,” she said. “We got a Continuous Glucose Monitoring Device (CGM) and pump but he didn’t react well to having a needle in his body and the different tapes would give him a rash and burn his skin.” Having to manually prick his fingers and toes to check his blood sugar levels, Ms Stimpson said a specially trained Smart Pup would improve Jaxon’s quality of life. “I check his sugars every two hours so neither of us sleep properly and he is uncomfortable, but these dogs are amazing in detecting the level from the chemical reaction of the child’s breath,” she said.

“If it smells sweet or fruity it is a high or if it smells acidic like nail polish remover it is a low, so the dog would wake me up and either jump up or lay down to let me know so I can treat him.” A Smart Pups spokesperson explained how important it is for children with special needs to have the dog’s skills. “At the moment, this little boy’s life is ruled by cannulas, needles and life-threatening trips to hospital, so he desperately needs one of our highly trained diabetic alert dogs,” the spokesperson said. “It takes our trainers over a year to teach a dog to alert to Jaxon’s low blood sugar and to reach the high standards needed to be an accredited assistance dog.” Clients are not charged the $30,000 it costs to raise and train a Smart Pup, but are encouraged to fundraise $20,000 in donations to help with funding. “Unfortunately, Smart Pups does not receive any government funding but relies solely on the support of the public,” the spokesperson said. “Your donation will help with the costs involved in raising and training a dog for Jaxon and help him get his life changing dog sooner.” To help Jaxon get his Smart Pup, visit bit. ly/2Yns4Sl.

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A furry friend could help Tanika Stimpson take care of her son Jaxon. Photo: Megan Dunn.

As our community exits COVID-19 restrictions and starts to navigate the new normal, Penrith Council has pulled together a group of industry, government and community leaders to accelerate the city’s post-pandemic recovery. Two taskforces headed by Deputy Mayor Karen McKeown OAM and myself met last week for the first time to start forming a plan to deliver a streamlined coordinated recovery effort. One is focused on the economic needs and opportunities the city faces, and the other on the wellbeing and resilience of our residents. It is vital that we take action now, to turn our attention to recovery from the economic recession we find ourselves in and build on our resilience for our future prosperity as a city. The Economic Recovery Taskforce will focus on jobs and ensuring businesses and employers in Penrith are supported and enabled to thrive. Creating jobs close to home has always been a priority for Council, and now, with the challenges raised by COVID-19, we need to work even harder

to stimulate the economy and foster diverse employment opportunity. The Community Recovery Taskforce will focus on fostering connection and positioning community services to meet the changing needs of Penrith’s population. Council has worked hard over the past months to stay connected with our community even while we’ve been apart, and we need to leverage the innovative programs we’ve developed to keep our residents safe and engaged as we move into the new normal. Council has provided more than half a million dollars in immediate relief to businesses over the past few months and supported the community through waiving hire fees for sporting groups and partnering with organisations that work with some of the city’s most vulnerable residents. The two taskforces will explore even more options to assist our community post COVID-19 and I am looking forward to the opportunities that we develop to lead Penrith’s recovery after the virus.

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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MASKED PANTHER Injury blow for Capewell, plus Penrith plan homecoming

PAGE 26

MARTIN MAGIC Likeable forward promises big performances as revised NRL season heats up

PAGE 27

GLOSSY POSTER INSIDE Josh Mansour shows off his muscles in our weekly pin-up

PAGES 30-31

LANG ON LEAGUE Tyrone May set to earn a new Panthers contract, despite extended time off the field

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STORM ALERT PANTHERS FACE BIGGEST TEST OF SEASON SO FAR MATCH PREVIEW: PAGE 25

Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

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the final word

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 19, 2020

match preview

James Tamou. Photo: NRL Images.

TROY DODDS

n his post-match press conference last Friday night following the 16- 10 loss to Parramatta, coach Ivan Cleary was asked to reflect on a game two weeks earlier – against Newcastle – where a drift in concentration after leading 14- 0 had cost his side a competition point. Such a lapse had just happened again, and Cleary conceded it was an issue: “We’re still learning that,” he said, referring to ensuring the concentration levels remain high even when the scoreboard is significantly in your favour. But there is positives for Cleary to take out of both the Newcastle and Eels collapses. While three competition points in total have been painfully taken from their grasp, Penrith has been in a position to win every game so far this season, which gives the coach a platform to build from. The fact they’ve grabbed seven vital competition points along the way is

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FRIDAY, JUNE 19 | 7.55PM | CAMPBELLTOWN STADIUM | REFEREE: ASHLEY KLEIN a bonus, as the Panthers get to play each game from within the eight – a critical advantage in this reduced season. Had Penrith not conceded a try against the Knights before half- time in round three and had they avoided the eight minutes of chaos in the second half last weekend, they’d be sitting pretty at the top of the competition ladder. Rugby league is full of ‘what ifs’ but this scenario appears legitimate enough to give Penrith fans confidence heading into Friday night’s clash with Melbourne at Campbelltown Stadium. The Storm go into the game as favourites on the back of two strong performances against the Rabbitohs and Knights. But while Craig Bellamy would be comfortable with his side’s spot on the ladder, he may well be concerned by the somewhat incomplete performances his side is offering.

Melbourne haven’t delivered a complete 80 minute performance this season, often leaving it late to wrap up games they’d otherwise have in the bag by half- time. And when a side comes along that really takes it to them – like Canberra a few weeks ago – they struggle to find their way back into the match. That opens the door for Penrith, but that drift in concentration needs to disappear from their game otherwise it’ll be punished by a Melbourne side that, much like the Eels, will not gift you back the lead once it’s been surrendered. The Panthers welcome back Dylan Edwards this week, providing a welcome boost at fullback. After numerous injury setbacks and with some handy talent eyeing off his position, he’ll feel he has plenty to prove. Cleary has again named Matt Burton on the bench, maintaining the Jarome Luai

PANTHERS

/ Nathan Cleary halves combination. He clearly wants to make three go into two, but for me it didn’t go anywhere near having the desired result last weekend – and is a questionable game plan when you consider how the spot on the bench could be better utilised. I’d prefer to see the Panthers improve their rotation with four forwards on the bench, particularly given some of the versatility at Cleary’s disposal should a back go down injured. Is it time for Jack Hetherington to offer some real mongrel? (Let’s hope Burton comes on and scores the match-winner on Friday and I’m left with egg on my face). If Melbourne get early momentum I fear for Penrith in this one, but the longer Cleary’s men can stay in the game, the more confident I’ll feel about getting the chocolates. Tip: Panthers by 2.

STORM

1 Dylan Edwards

10 James FIsher-Harris

1 Ryan Papenhuyzen

2 Josh Mansour

11 Viliame Kikau

2 Sulisai Vunivalu

11 Felise Kaufusi

3 Dean Whare

12 Liam Martin

3 Justin Olam

12 Kenneath Bromwich

4 Stephen Crichton

13 Isaah Yeo

4 Brenko Lee

13 Dale Finucane

5 Brian To’o

14 Matt Burton

5 Josh Addo-Carr

14 Brandon Smith

6 Jarome Luai

15 Zane Tetevano

6 Cameron Munster

15 Tino Faasuamaleaui

7 Nathan Cleary

16 Moses Leota

7 Ryley Jacks

16 Tom Eisenhuth

10 Christian Welch

8 James Tamou (c)

17 Billy Burns

8 Jesse Bromwich

17 Nelson Asofa-Solomona

9 Apisai Koroisau

18 Mitch Kenny 19 Brent Naden

9 Cameron Smith (c)

18 Max King 19 Marion Seve

Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

CAPEWELL DOWN AGAIN !

Poor old Kurt Capewell can’t take a trick at the moment. His Penrith debut was delayed due to an injury in the preseason and now the forward is facing at least 10 weeks on the sidelines with a knee problem. The 26-year-old will require surgery after suffering a grade three medial ligament injury early in the loss to Parramatta last Friday night.

The TV ratings for last Friday night’s Battle of the West were impressive for both Nine and Fox League. Nine’s average audience of 547,627 was five per cent up on Penrith’s 2019 free-to-air average. Fox League’s 297,977 average was up almost 28 per cent on Penrith’s 2019 figures.

Penrith is working towards having a crowd of around 5,500 for their clash with the Cowboys on Sunday, July 19. The Panthers only have one home game in July, and it’s anticipated crowd restrictions will be further loosened by the time a series of August blockbusters roll around. Meantime, a small number of fans will be allowed to attend Friday’s game against the Storm at Campbelltown Stadium, with a ballot held to select the lucky few.

Penrith, like a number of sporting clubs over the weekend, had to fend off a minority of losers on social media who criticised players for ‘taking a knee’ in support of Indigenous Australians following their game against the Eels. “Please feel free to unfollow,” Penrith wrote to one irate fan, who had threatened to pull his support of the club.

Cheeky: Former Panther Reagan Campbell-Gillard, whose performances towards the end of his time at the club left plenty to be desired, left a ‘crying laughter’ emoji on a story posted in the wake of last Friday’s Battle of the West, which pointed out that the Panthers were still paying some of the wages of Campbell-Gillard and Waqa Blake at the Eels. “So they were paid by Penrith to beat them last night,” the story said.

The Panthers couldn’t get the

Kurt Capewell leaves Bankwest Stadium last Friday night. Photo: NRL Images. chocolates for captain James Tamou’s 250th game last Friday, but it was still an emotional match for the big prop. Tamou’s jersey for the match was presented by former Penrith captain Peter Wallace after the captain’s run last Thursday, who gave a stirring tribute to the off-contract 31-year-old.

Happy birthday to Tyrone May, who turns 24 this weekend. The utility, who is currently sidelined due to suspension following off-field dramas, has plenty to prove when he finally returns to the NRL this year. Importantly, May is also

off-contract and while he’s expected to be retained by the club, it does spark further conversations about how the Panthers could keep May, Jarome Luai and Matt Burton without one of them starting to consider a future elsewhere.

The Panthers require 36 more tries this season to secure a little milestone – 4,000 tries since entering the senior competition in 1967.

The bubble is about to burst. At least that’s the rumour doing the rounds at the moment, with suggestions the NRL will

ease its rules surrounding player isolation and ‘dirty’ and ‘clean’ zones, which have protected the 50 players and staff inside the so-called ‘bubble’ at each club. It’s worked reasonably well, except for a couple of media mishaps. Expect new rules to be in place from July, when it’s anticipated clubs will also return to their home bases. In-person media events may also be back soon.

Heard a rumour I should follow up on? Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au. I don’t keep secrets, but I do protect my sources!

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TOUGH MARTIN PROMISES TO DIG IN NATHAN TAYLOR

ith experienced Panthers backrower Kurt Capewell sidelined for at least 10 weeks with a serious knee injury, young bull Liam Martin is determined to make the position his own. The 23- year- old made his first appearance, since the NRL returned, last week, coming on for the injured Capewell in the opening minutes of the game. Martin had been sidelined with his own leg problem for a number of weeks before returning against the Eels last Friday night. “I tore my quad in one of the first weeks back from the break, so I was out for three or four weeks with that, but it’s all healed now,” he told Extra Time. “I was a bit shocked coming on so early because I was told I’d get on at some point in the second half, so as soon as I saw Capey start limping I knew I was in for a long game.” When Martin, who debuted with flying colours last season, hit the field in the second minute of the game he didn’t miss a beat. In his first taste of football since

Liam Martin in action against the Eels last Friday. Photo: NRL Images. Round 2 against the Dragons, he recorded 126 running metres, two tackle breaks, one line break and made 37 tackles. Martin said it was a tough initiation against one of the competition’s best sides

but he’s glad he got through it and is ready to go again this Friday against Melbourne. “It was good to get back out there, it was a long lay-off,” he said. “To also come back to the new game

format was a shock to the body but I think I adjusted pretty well.” Penrith led for the majority of the match before Parramatta scored three tries in quick succession to steal victory late in the game. Martin said a small lapse of concentration cost Penrith their undefeated start to the season. “It was unfortunate we didn’t get the win. I thought we played pretty well, we just had a bit of a lapse there for a 10- minute period where they iced their opportunities,” he said. “We were very good for periods there but then we had lapses in concentration where they came back.” All week Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has been drumming into his side the importance of playing the full 80 minutes. Martin said if they are going to take down the might of Melbourne tonight in Campbelltown, they’ll need to be locked in from whistle to whistle. “Ivan said we have to be a harder team and once we get a lead we’ve got to keep the pressure on and finish the game strong,” Martin said. “Ivan said he was proud of our effort the other night, we played well, but we have to play for the full 80 minutes.”

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

feature

YEO KEEN TO STOP RAMPANT STORM NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith has beaten Melbourne just twice since 2006, proving no other team in the competition ‘owns’ the Panthers more than the Storm do. It’s hard to put your finger on why the head- to- head record is so lopsided, but perhaps it’s more to do with the calibre of Melbourne’s team over the years than a fear of their purple and navy jersey. Tonight, Penrith will attempt to close the gap – even slightly – on Craig Bellamy’s side when they clash for the first time at Campbelltown Stadium. While both sides are enjoying a strong start to the 2020 season, the Panthers are well aware of what Melbourne do on a regular basis… win. “They’ve been such a strong side over the years and that won’t change this week,” Panthers lock Isaah Yeo said on Monday. “Every time you come up against Melbourne you get an 80 - minute performance and you have to limit what Cameron Smith and Cameron Munster do, which will be part of our game plan. “Coming up against Parramatta and

Isaah Yeo is enjoying a strong start to the season. Photo: Megan Dunn. Melbourne – two of the best sides in the competition – in back-to-back weeks will give us a good opportunity to see where we are at. I’m really looking forward to the challenge.” Penrith’s chance of remaining undefeated came to a crashing halt last week

when they blew a 10- point lead against competition leaders Parramatta at Bankwest Stadium. The Panthers were the better side for most of the match, but they were unable to finish what they started against the Blue & Golds.

Yeo said while it was a disappointing way to lose, there were plenty of positives to take out of the match. “I thought our first half was probably our best half of football all year,” he admitted. “It was disappointing to have that five to 10-minute patch in the second half where they capitalised – they showed why they are one of the benchmark teams of the competition. “I thought there were plenty of good things to take away from the game, as well as a few things to work on.” What made the Eels’ comeback particularly hard for Penrith fans to endure was the fact former Panthers centre Waqa Blake was in the thick of the action – scoring a try and having a hand in another. Yeo said his old teammate was huge in the dying stages, but there was no ‘rubbing salt into the wound’ from any of the four ex-Panthers post-match. “I’ve played with those players before and I know how good they are. Waqa came up big in the key moments,” he said. “There was no rubbing salt into the wound, they were all respectful in that sense. I spoke with Reagan [CampbellGillard] a little bit after the game because we’re still close, but he knows better than to rub it in.”

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Friday, June 19, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender â&#x20AC;˘ extra time

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

nrl ladder & fixtures CLUB

+/-

PTS

Eels

123

+83

Raiders

+40

Storm

+28

Knights

122

+40

Panthers

102

+30

Roosters

151

+104

Sea Eagles

+12

Cowboys

123

113

+10

W. Tigers

105

114

-9

10 Rabbitohs

102

-10

Warriors

-31

12 Broncos

152

-78

13 Sharks

108

-22

14 Dragons

112

-38

15 Bulldogs

108

-56

16 Titans

161

-103

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Friday, June 19 6.00pm Bankwest Stadium

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Saturday, June 20 3.00pm Suncorp Stadium

Saturday, June 20 5.30pm Campbelltown Stadium

Saturday, June 20 7.35pm Bankwest Stadium

Sunday, June 21 4.05pm C Campbelltown Stadium

Sunday, June 21 6.30pm Bankwest Stadium

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Extra Time Issue Number 2020-011

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with Peter Lang Queensland scored a try to edge ahead on the scoreboard. They also kept Cowboys metre- eater Jason Taumalolo quiet, only allowing him to run for a grand total of 123 metres, well down on the 300-plus metres he achieved in his previous two games.

Tyrone not May... but WILL be back! He hasn’t played a first grade premiership match since 2018 but Panthers utility Tyrone May is set to be offered a Panthers contract for 2021. There is strong support for Tyrone in the coaching ranks and first grade coach Ivan Cleary is keen to have the popular utility on board next season. He impressed club officials with a strong showing in the trial against the Tigers earlier this year. While his dedication on the training paddock over the last 18 months has been second to none. He would have been in the mix for a spot in the first grade team this year had the NRL ban for his role in the sex tape scandal elapsed – it still had four games to run. He also received a further two- game suspension, along with his housemate Nathan Cleary for being untruthful to the NRL Integrity Unit, after breaching social distancing laws on April 25. May just needs to keep putting in the hard work at training and not put another foot wrong – off the training paddock – and he will be rewarded with a contract extension. What caught my eye last week... The performance of the Warriors in their 37- 26 defeat of the Cowboys last Friday. The boys from across the ditch showed plenty of courage and determination to keep hitting back every time North

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What game I’m looking forward to... The clash between the Premiers and the Eels this Saturday night. Parramatta are receiving plenty of attention for their impressive start in 2020 and are the only team undefeated after five rounds. They are the side who many good judges believe will take out the premiership this year. I’m not one of those ‘good judges’ but I could become a believer if they can knock over the Roosters this weekend.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 19, 2020

Despite controversies, Tyrone May’s future at Penrith is secure

My tips for the week... Knights, Rabbitohs, Panthers, Dragons, Tigers, Roosters, Raiders, Sharks.

Tyrone May is set to receive a new Panthers contract.

The final word... The Storm continue to rule the roost when it comes to favourable refereeing decisions. While many thought the new ‘six again’ ruck rule would see Melbourne come undone when the competition restarted three weeks ago, they have shown that once again, they have the best referee in the comp IN their side to help them out. Take a bow Mr Smith!

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he Eels have been in this situation before against the Roosters, only to come up short, which makes this weekend’s showdown even bigger for the only undefeated team in the competition. Last season, they were flying high after back- to- back wins to kick off their 2019 campaign, but knew the biggest test was facing the defending premiers in Round 3. They lost that game 32- 18, though the final scoreline hides the fact that with 20 minutes to go, the Eels led the champs 18-14. Parra fans must have been thinking ‘here we go!’, only to watch the Roosters score three tries in the run to full-time to put the game to bed. It’s a very similar story this time around – the Blue and Gold bandwagon is heaving with supporters, all thinking that this, after all these years, is the season in which they put the ghosts of the past 33 competitions well and truly behind them. And why wouldn’t they? The Eels effort to come from behind against the Panthers last weekend and keep the unbeaten record in tact showed that there’s a tonne of resolve in the current outfit. In fact, it’s just the sort of performance that the Roosters have produced while notching up consecutive titles, and eerily similar to what they did to Parramatta in Round 3 last year.

Dylan Brown is on fire for Parramatta. Photo: NRL Images.

Mitch Moses is finally playing the sort of football that has been predicted of him since he came into the NRL with the Wests Tigers and his halves partner Dylan Brown looks just like a teenage version of Moses himself. Working off the back of a forward pack that has the sort of depth that can win titles – something they haven’t had in the past – Moses and Brown are as dangerous as any halves pairing in the competition. Parramatta have everything in place, and while you can do no more than what they’ve done so far, they’ll know that it will count for little should they be unable to go set- for- set with the Roosters on Saturday. If the Eels’ belief is as strong as it looks at the moment, they’ll explode with confidence if they can prove to everybody, but most importantly themselves, that they have what it takes to beat the team that has been red-hot since the NRL resumed three weeks ago. They’ll have an extra three days’ rest for this game compared to the Roosters who had to play a delayed game against the Bulldogs on Monday night, and if the game is in the balance with 20 minutes to go just as it was last year, it just might be the Eels who finish off the job to announce themselves as genuine title contenders in 2020.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

Eels have chance to announce premiership credentials

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few weeks ago I wrote that with the resumption of the season after the COVID- 19 break, fans of all teams had hope (except for the Titans), their side could make the Finals and even win a premiership. Three rounds later I think it’s become very clear fans of at least five teams, maybe more, can start thinking about 2021. That might seem harsh however because of the shortened nature of the season, it’s only 20 rounds, not 25 or 26 as in the past, teams can’t afford slow starts. The long lay off and the failure of some teams to adapt to the ‘six again’ rule, has seen a huge gulf emerge between the top teams and the ones at the bottom. At the top of the ladder I think we are looking at an even competition. Parramatta lead the comp, the Roosters, Penrith, Canberra, Manly, Souths, Knights and as always the Storm, will all have claims. However this year more than any other season in recent years, the group of seven to eight top teams, is so far ahead of a big group of bottom teams it’s not funny. We almost have a competition split in half. Fans of the Dragons, Sharks, Bulldogs, Warriors, Titans and probably the Broncos and Cowboys can start thinking about next year. The Warriors, despite their win over the Cowboys, are fighting with one hand

behind their back, forced to play all their games away from home and not just away from home, but in another country. They’ve always been inconsistent and this won’t help them. The Bulldogs try hard but their list probably isn’t much better than some Canterbury Cup teams. Despite the Dragons winning last weekend, the coach probably won’t see out the season. Their last start opponents, the Sharks, have become the worst roster managers in the NRL. Each of their top paid players other than Wade Graham, is either carrying long- term injury or is performing like a shadow of their former selves. The Titans are the Titans and the kindest description is, they are rebuilding. No team beaten by 59 points in the regular season has ever won the competition, so that rules the Broncos out and the Cowboys have been beaten by the Sharks and the Warriors so that rules them out. I can’t remember a year when seven teams are finished by end of round five, however round five also represents a quarter of this shortened competition. The question is whether those coaches will use the rest of 2020 to start building for season 2021 and make gutsy calls like dropping high paid players, who don’t seem to be cutting it anymore.

Wade Graham is still performing well for Cronulla. Photo: NRL Images.

extra minutes

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 19, 2020

Five teams can start thinking about next year

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Sad news this week with one of the toughest players to have ever laced on a boot, Noel Kelly, passing away at the age of 84. Kelly played 28 Tests for the Kangaroos and played in three Grand Finals for Western Suburbs. In all he played 111 games for the Magpies and was named captain-coach in 1966.

The NRL is forging ahead with this weekend’s Beanie for Brain Cancer Round despite fans still being locked out of stadiums. It’s hoped fans will still open their wallets and purchase a beanie this year. They’re on sale from Lowes, selected IGA stores and the Mark Hughes Foundation website.

Winston Churchill said when addressing the troops before sending them off to war: “Gentlemen, just because you are going to kill a man, you do not have to be disrespectful.”

Still on Brisbane and they’ve received a much-needed boost of experience with veteran hooker Issac Luke joining the club from St George-Illlawarra. Luke asked the Dragons for a release and will find a spot in the Broncos’ first grade team following an injury to Jake Turpin and Andrew McCullough’s departure to Newcastle.

The NRL handled the postponement of Sunday’s Bulldogs v Roosters clash with absolute professionalism. Just think about the flow-on impact –

This should apply to our beautiful game too. Let’s keep the positivity going team. Issac Luke is joining the Broncos. broadcasters, stadium staff, catering, security... the list goes on. Everyone took it in their stride. Well done to Bulldogs CEO Andrew Hill, too, who got straight on the front foot and made himself available to every TV and radio station who wanted him on Sunday and Monday.

Bad news for the Cowboys with Valentine Holmes (ankle) and Jordan McLean (calf) to miss Saturday’s clash with the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Stadium.

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Former Broncos forward Peter Ryan has been welcomed back to the club as a Skills Coach for the remainder of the 2020 season. Ryan, a multiple Premiership winner in 147 games with the Broncos, will work with all players across the NRL squad.

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s we slowly transition to the new normal, it has become more important for businesses to consider innovative marketing strategies that are able to reach out to more people despite the limitations brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the effective marketing strategies you should try is SMS marketing. A lot of marketers mistakenly think that this technique is expensive because you need to invest in apps and devices. However, the reality is that SMS marketing is now easier to implement due to the popularity of mobile devices. Engaging with your target market can be as simple as sending a personalised SMS. Here are some of the reasons why SMS marketing should be part of your multi-channel marketing strategy. It is direct and immediate. SMS marketing is one of the channels that provide the most immediate results. With its open rate of 97 per cent within 15 minutes after delivery, businesses can rest assured that their time-sensitive texts are read instantly.

It is cost effective Sending out SMS is way cheaper than other marketing strategies, such as PPC or social media ads. You can even send out free SMS using apps or tools, which can be a huge help in this critical period. It works well with other channels Doing SMS marketing can give you good results. But integrating SMS marketing with other strategies will give you the best results. You can use SMS to support other popular channels, such as social media and email. Learn more about your customers SMS is a great platform to get to know your target market. You can easily get feedback via surveys, which is an effective way to understanding your audience. Studies show that 31 per cent of customers are likely to respond to SMS surveys and it would only take them five minutes to do so. Monitor ROI through response data You can track meaningful ROI by monitoring delivery rate and response rate of your campaign. From this data, you can create more targeted campaigns and understand your customers more.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

SNIPS AND SNAPS

It’s back on the treadmill for thousands of gymgoers across Penrith, with fitness centres re- opening this week. From big centres like Zoo Fitness to small training houses like F45, people were back sweating it out. Gyms were forced to close for months at the height of the Coronavirus pandemic. Centres were allowed to open their doors from Saturday, and some

Today (June 19) marks 10 years since the 2010 Penrith by- election – won by Stuart Ayres for the Liberal Party. Ayres celebrates a decade as the State Member for Penrith today, and will rack up some 13 years in the seat by the time the next State Election is held in 2023.

NEW HOST WILSON SCORES 2GB DRIVE SHIFT couldn’t contain their excitement. A group of loyal gym fans turned up to Zoo Fitness at midnight on Saturday, enjoying an early morning

workout on the first day of trade. A DJ was on hand to help the fitness lovers get back into the spirit of working out.

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Seven News veteran Jim Wilson is joining rival Nine to host Drive on 2GB. The 52- year- old will replace Ben Fordham, who recently shifted to the Breakfast spot vacated by Alan Jones. “I could not be more excited to be taking on the mantle of 2GB Drive,” Wilson said. “Radio is a medium I love, and I’m thrilled to get the mic full time on Sydney’s number one station, 2GB.”

SYDNEY ICON DISMANTLED

Work will soon begin to remove the toll booths from the northern end of Sydney Harbour Bridge. The historic toll booths used to collect cash from motorists crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but technology has evolved and these toll booths are no longer used. “Removing the northern toll booths will improve traffic flow and safety for the more than 160,000 motorists who use the Sydney Harbour Bridge every day,” Roads Minister Andrew Constance said. “The work will complement other projects improving the use of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, including installing pedestrian lifts on the eastern walkway and the future upgrades to the cycleway.”

LIMITS AXED All purchase restrictions that were put in place at Woolworths through the COVID-19 buying surge, including on antibacterial wipes and hand wash, have been removed. Woolworths Supermarkets Managing Director, Claire Peters said: “This is a big milestone and a positive sign following months of hard work from our teams and significant support from our suppliers to ensure the replenishment of our shelves during a period of extraordinary demand.” Woolworths implemented buying limits in March after shoppers started panic buying everything from toilet paper to mince.

“I always feel sorry for the horses at these protests. I would like to suggest the use of armoured rhinos instead.” RICKY GERVAIS LIGHTENING THE MOOD AS ALWAYS

HAYDEN TAKES UP POSITIVE CAUSE The world’s favourite family gaming brand is now 85-years-old – and still going strong. To celebrate this extraordinary milestone, the Monopoly brand has created its most opulent game yet. With eight, brand new gold tokens symbolising living the good life of luxury and fun – a race car, sunglasses, a yacht, a bowtie, a jet, a helicopter, a wristwatch, and a top hat – the premium- packaged Monopoly 85th Anniversary Edition game is destined to become a collector’s item. “For 85 years, the game of Monopoly has played an important role in bringing people together and strengthening the bonds of family and friendship,” said Hasbro Pacific Brand Manager, Tom Munro. “The Monopoly game has remained a timeless favourite and helped players create memories that last a lifetime – that’s exactly what this new 85th edition celebrates.” The game is available to purchase from KMart.

Aussie cricket legend Matt Hayden has taken up the bat for men’s health, calling for joint action to help Aussie blokes enjoy a better innings in order to improve overall community health and wellness. Hayden is the figurehead of the Every Man Can campaign, launched to coincide with Men’s Health Week. The campaign aims to raise awareness of Australia’s short bowling on men’s health, including lower life expectancy for men compared to women, higher risks of suicide, and premature death.

“Our underper formance on men’s health is hurting our women and children as much as it is harming our lads and blokes,” Hayden said. “We need to do more to inspire the nation’s fathers and sons to step up, take action, support one another, and play as a team. Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia CEO, Professor Jeff Dunn, commended the cricket champion for his leadership. “Men’s health is key to community care and wellbeing. One in six Aussie men are strug-

gling with depression, men are twice as likely as women to abuse alcohol and drugs when their mental health is in crisis, and men are less likely to seek expert support for their concerns.”

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Elyse has the Voice to win EMILY FESZCZUK

ambridge Park singer Elyse Sene - Lefao wowed the country on Sunday night when she appeared on the hit TV series ‘The Voice’, and the 19-year-old’s next big dream is to go all the way and win the popular reality show. Developing a passion for music from growing up singing with her family in church, Elyse tried out for the show last year but was unsuccessful in the Blind Auditions. She told the Weekender she decided to try for a second time because she felt the timing was right. “Last year I went into the competition not confident in myself as I had taken a break from music, so I needed to get back in the habit of singing,” Elyse said. “I believe in timing for everything and it just wasn’t meant to be, so I needed the year off to grow as an artist, which helped me turn three chairs this time.” Taking the year to develop and be mentored by another Australian star, Elyse was in high demand when she sang Jessie J’s ‘Big White Room’, which she said came as a shock. “I got the opportunity before the audition to be Christine Anu’s backing vocalist for her national tour which was amazing because she taught me so much about music and the industry,” she said.

“I was praying for even one chair to turn but in the moment when I was singing I was vulnerable and telling my truth, which I think the crowd and judges loved – it left me in disbelief.” While Boy George and Kelly Rowland turned for Elyse, the new ‘Block’ feature of the game came into play meaning she defaulted to Guy Sebastian’s team. Admitting she would have chosen Kelly, Elyse said she is still extremely happy and will be giving it her all. “Growing up Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child were my icons so that’s why I was going to chose Kelly, but Guy is amazing and I am stoked to be on his team,” she said. “I am going to give it my all throughout the competition then hopefully use this experience to pursue my career and really make what I love doing a reality.” With the Battle Rounds set to begin this Sunday night, Elyse said people need to keep watching. “This season is probably one of the best with all the talented people and my journey gets crazy as I push on and try my best for everyone who has supported me so far,” she said. ‘The Voice’ is on Sundays at 7pm and Mondays at 7.30pm on Channel Nine. It is also available to stream on 9Now.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

At the movies... Sleepy flick has some life BLOW THE MAN DOWN ++ 1 hour, 30 mins EMILY FESZCZUK

The Amazon Prime Original movie ‘Blow The Man Down’ delves under the surface of a sleepy little fishing town to an underbelly full of illicit dealings. Grieving the loss of their mother and facing an uncertain future, Mary Beth and Priscilla end up having a run-in with a dangerous man ending in a death. To cover up their crime, the Connelly sisters end up uncovering some dark secrets. This dark comedy has a unique mix, with it combining a murder mystery with a charming cast along with beautifully shot scenes that could look like postcards.

It will make you laugh, and the storyline is a great look at how people deal with situations differently based on their morals and personal experiences. You could be left confused as the rhythm of the movie is a little off, making it feel incomplete when all you want is answers. The leads are strong, but the older, not so innocent, ladies of the town really steal the scenes. With co - writers and directors Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy at the helm, it is a powerful feminist film. It doesn’t reach the gale force pace that you might want, but instead you can sail smoothly through this quirky tale right until the end.

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the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

E V I F Y A D I R F E H T

THE PERFECT DATE NIGHT RESTAURANTS

4. Avli Restaurant (Cranebrook Road, Cranebrook) A little bit of Greece awaits just a couple of kilometres outside of Penrith. It is a hidden gem, sitting in an historic church that has been refurbished to house the amazing restaurant. If you’ve never been before, try their Date Night Dinner set menu. With a great atmosphere and indoor and outdoor dining available, Avli should be on your list. 3. Enzo’s Cucina (Town Terrace, Glenmore Park) Italians are known for their love of good food and your date might just love you after you treat them to Enzo’s. Their risotto is amazing but you can’t go wrong here, especially with their wide range of pizzas. For a relaxed but delicious date, sit in the alfresco and enjoy the friendly family service.

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5. Allan Grammar (Woodriff Street, Penrith) If your date has a taste for fine dining then Allan Grammar is for you. This small wine bar is only open on Friday and Saturday nights so make sure to book to enjoy beautifully crafted dishes like pork rillette or duck breast. Finish it with a delicious drink in the intimate setting for a perfect night.

2. The Union (High Street, Penrith) You might think sharing food isn’t a good idea on a first date but the outstanding tapas food The Union delivers will make it worth it. With a small bar below, why not grab a glass of sangria before or after your date to make it a complete night out. Some of our favourites are the potatoes bravas, fried haloumi or the paella, which even has a vegan version.

1. Osso (Mulgoa Road, Penrith) Osso is the place to go if you want to feel like you are in a cool inner- city restaurant without the travel. Part of the Panthers complex, you can kick on afterwards for a dance and a few drinks if the date is going well. With everything from zucchini flowers to pasta and even oysters, you can strike up some great conversation over a delicious selection of food. Known for their quality meat we would recommend the ribs or the award- winning Wagyu Sirloin, with a matched wine, of course!

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A first date must include a great meal that you will remember, and there’s plenty of awesome restaurants for date nights in Penrith. Here are five of our top spots that are guaranteed to get you a second date.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Word Search Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

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Test your knowledge about Captain James Cook in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. In what country was James Cook born? 2. During what war did James Cook become an expert at map making and navigating? 3. What was the name of James Cook’s ship on his first expedition?

4. True or false: James Cook always kept fresh fruit on his ships? 5. True or false: James Cook was killed by natives on the Hawaiian Islands? 6. How old was James Cook when he died?

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

Ê ‘Cancel culture’ is currently wreaking havoc right across the entertainment industry with several shows axed or pulled from popular streaming services. After a whopping 33 seasons ‘Cops’ – one of the best US observational shows of all time – is now confined to history after Paramount Network gave it the heave-ho. Also buried in the TV Graveyard is fellow American police observational ‘Live PD’, which follows cops on patrol via live video feeds from multiple law enforcement agencies in the US. But it isn’t just police shows getting the chop, four Chris Lilley comedies – ‘We Can Be Heroes’, ‘Summer Heights High’, ‘Jonah From Tonga’ and ‘Angry Boys’ – have been pulled from Netflix due to depictions of brown face. Stan and Netflix have also removed ‘Little Britain’ and ‘Come Fly With Me’ because, according to the BBC, “times have changed”. It’s probably a safe bet that these won’t be the last titles to be axed or removed from our lives in the coming weeks/months, as the world

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

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Ê ‘The Voice’, one of the most popular shows on TV right now, will introduce guest mentors as production begins to ramp up again. With COVID-19 travel restrictions forcing Boy George and Kelly Rowland to remain at home and appear via FaceTime, The Veronicas and Marcia Hines will step in as mentors for the coaches. Twin sisters Lisa and Jessica Origliasso will mentor Team George’s singers, while former ‘Australian Idol’ judge Marcia Hines will return to television helping Team Kelly’s contestants. It’s understood more Aussie mentors will give Kelly and George a hand as the series nears the finish line. Meanwhile, viewers have also been asked to send in footage of them cheering, dressing up and supporting their favourite coaches and artists for a virtual crowd.

Ê Channel Seven is currently airing season 15 of ‘America’s Got Talent’. With ‘Big Brother’ airing from Sunday to Tuesday, Seven will air ‘AGT’ on Wednesdays at 7.30pm. The premiere episode aired this week with Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum and Sofía Vergara on the judging panel. Ê Season two of South African reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Johannesburg’ premieres on Arena this Sunday, June 21 at 8.30pm. Ê This might appeal to kids of the ‘90s with ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ dropping on Netflix on Friday, July 3. Based on the best-selling books of the same name, the show follows Kristy Thomas, Mary-Anne Spier, Claudia Kishi, Stacey McGill and Dawn Schafer as middle-schoolers who start their babysitting business in the town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut.

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the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

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AQUARIUS

PISCES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Aquarians are fabulous at formulating abstract ideas, discussing dreams and talking about future plans. But it really is time to be productive and actually walk your talk. This week, actions definitely speak louder than words! As entrepreneur Elon Musk (who was born on June 28, 1971) said: “I don’t create companies for the sake of creating companies, but to get things done”.

Have you been procrastinating? Monday through until Friday is your last chance to get a major task done-and-dusted, as Mars finishes transiting through your sign. And then the weekend is a wonderful time to spend with family members. They will appreciate your tender loving care. Be inspired by birthday great, Meryl Streep: “My family really does come first. It always has and always will”.

ARIES MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

With Venus retrograde (until Thursday) and Mercury retrograde (until July 12) relationships will be rocky, misunderstandings are likely and it will be very easy to misinterpret what others are saying. So if you’re uncertain, then take the time to double-check. On the weekend you’ll need to get your speed skates back on, when Mars (your power planet) dashes into your sign.

TAURUS

CANCER

LEO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Don’t fall into the trap of undervaluing and neglecting your numerous Taurean talents. With Venus finally moving forwards on Thursday, it’s time to express yourself in uplifting ways that make your heart sing. Be inspired by singersongwriter Carly Simon: “There’s always a creative side to me, even when it’s quiet musically … like painting or decorating or planting a garden”.

The Sun’s transiting through your sign this week, so it’s time to crawl out of your cosy cave and take on challenges with confidence, good communication skills and plenty of chutzpah. No excuses! Even though Mercury is reversing through your sign, get motivated and get moving. As Helen Keller (who was blind and deaf) said: “Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing”.

VIRGO

Opportunities are around this week, but they aren’t immediately obvious. They are hidden in unexpected places, waiting for you to discover them. So don’t waste the chance to let your Cat creativity and unique talents shine! But is a fair-weather friend or acquaintance leading you up the primrose path to financial trouble? Try to keep a sensible head on your Leo shoulders.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Thank goodness Venus turns direct on Thursday and close relationships should start to improve. As Carly Simon said: “I am blessed to have so many great things in my life, especially family and friends”. But remember Mercury is still reversing through your career zone. So extra organisation and diplomacy are required when you’re dealing with students, colleagues, clients or customers.

Be careful in the way you communicate, otherwise you could reveal too much or be misunderstood. When it comes to loved ones, it’s time to completely change your current modus operandi. Plenty of praise and encouragement will get you a lot further than negative remarks and constant criticism. You’ll find the more positive energy you put into relationships, the more they will sparkle and shine.

With your ruling planet Mercury stuck in slow retro mode (until July 12) you’ll feel like reviewing, reassessing and reimagining past projects, rather than initiating new ones. The North Node and retrograde Venus are both visiting your sign so you’re double the trouble and twice as much fun. But too much jokey hilarity (combined with no action) could annoy other people (who are hard at work).

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Creative communication and careful observation are the secrets to a good week, especially at work. But resist the temptation to launch half-baked projects or jump to hasty conclusions. Listen closely to what others are telling you, otherwise you’ll misunderstand their true meaning. And be careful what you post online, as a confusing comment could lead to unexpected consequences.

CAPRICORN

Resist the overwhelming urge to be impulsive and impetuous! Under the influence of retrograde Venus and retrograde Mercury, you need to apply the brakes and think before you speak and act. Otherwise you could upset others with your hasty words and reckless actions. When it comes to your fabulous aspirations for the future, the main quality you need to cultivate is patience.

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Are vague worries doing your head in? Stressing about things that might happen is not the sensible way to go. The planets encourage you to stop worrying and start doing. Concentrate on positive changes you can make right here and right now. Plus aim to be more proactive about appreciating your neighbourhood and local environment. If you network with like-minded people, you can achieve a lot.

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

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The right time to book an appointment with a physiotherapist

ealthcare is an extremely broad field with countless aspects to it. Healthcare includes physical illness, mental health and injuries to joints, muscles and bones. With so many facets to health, choosing the correct healthcare/medical practitioner can be confusing. Typically, most people start with their GP. Typically, this is a good start, a general practitioner is the gateway to the healthcare system. They have broad training across almost all areas. If it is a simple issue it can be managed by them. However, the true power of a general practitioner is their ability to refer you to the most suitable person to get you better. So, when in doubt, please see your general practitioner.

Do I need a referral? No, you don’t. You only need to call and make a booking. To summarise, this is what I say to my patients: “If you’re sick or unsure, see your family doctor. If you’re sore or stiff, see your physiotherapist”.

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Tale of two tradies proves what a difference insurance can make

oincidently, I spoke to two tradies today who both suffered serious long-term injuries from seemingly innocuous workplace falls, with vastly different results. The first tradie is a new client who came into the office because he was in some financial trouble and was looking for a way out. This client was hardworking, had savings, owned his house midway through minor renovations with a minor mortgage, was living within his means and was doing well. Not the sort of person we think of getting into financial trouble. Unfortunately, a fall at work resulted in a broken femur and six months without income. This brought about some credit card debts and mortgage payments being put on hold. A loan re-finance was required at a higher interest rate as the client was now considered high risk, despite being a model client for the previous 20 years.

Once back at work, the client was really struggling, barely making repayments with no support behind him – there was no room for even minor financial setbacks. Regrettably, a second minor injury was the straw that broke the camel’s back. A further two months without income and now the client was behind on the mortgage with no way of rectifying the situation. The client decided to sell the house, but first he had to finish the renovations to make it sellable. A short- term, high interest loan was required to complete these renovations, the interest on the second loan accrued on top of the original debt. A few injuries have forced this client to lose his house. It is a terrible situation and by the time the client came to us there was not much we could do to help. The second tradie is a long- term client and last year a fall resulted in his shoulder being so badly dam-

aged that he was told almost immediately that he’d never work again. Thankfully, this client had Income Protection and Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance. Since the time of the injury, the client has been receiving an Income Protection payment. This has meant he has been able to meet living costs over this period. The client’s cover is significantly less than what he was earning previously, but enough to meet expenses – he and his wife are getting by. This will continue until he is 65-years-old. Today we received confirmation that this client was going to receive a lump sum payment from his TPD insurance. This means he can repay the last of his remaining mortgage and will have some funds left over to top up his superannuation so he will be able to maintain a comfortable lifestyle throughout retirement. Having insurance or not having insurance meant a world of difference to these two tradies.

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

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s domestic travel restrictions are lifted in New South Wales, Sydney’s newest luxury 5- star hotel, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, is welcoming guests with new staycation packages, signature Fullerton dishes available for delivery, and a commitment to guests’ safety and wellbeing. Fullerton flavours at The Place The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s restaurant, The Place, is open Tuesday through to Saturday for lunch reservations from 12pm to 3pm, and dinner reservations from 6pm to 9pm. Serving up cross- cultural cuisine, including Southeast Asian specialities alongside Modern Australian dishes, menu items include Singapore satay, a hearty seafood laksa – perfect for the cooler weather, Wagyu beef rendang and the classic Fullerton burger – featuring wagyu beef, caramelised onions and deliciously good French fries. Located on level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, The Place offers diners a unique setting. Situated within the impressive atrium that overlooks the General Post Office heritage building, diners will enjoy the natural light and sandstone grandeur, complemented by an open kitchen and plush furniture. Extended menu at The Bar Open weekdays from 7am to 9pm and weekends from 8am till late, The Bar of-

fers takeaway coffee and an extended menu featuring signature dishes from The Place, allowing guests a choice to dine in the casual setting of The Bar or the sophisticated ambience of The Place. The signature Fullerton Afternoon Tea is back, delivering delicious savoury bites and delectable desserts, paired with an extensive TWG tea menu. Those seeking a tipple or night cap can choose the hotel’s signature cocktail, the Sydney Sling, and enjoy it by the warmth of the fireplace in The Lobby Room. Breakfast options will also be available at The Bar with menu items including the big Aussie breakfast, smashed avocado on sourdough, granola, and kaya toast – a Singapore favourite topped with sugar, coconut milk, eggs and pandan. Flexible reservation and cancellation To celebrate the easing of travel restrictions in New South Wales, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney has created new guestroom packages which include free cancellation policies to provide more flexibility and peace of mind for guests. Changes and cancellation without penalty up to 24 hours prior to arrival will be allowed for all bookings to arrive before September 30, 2020. To book, and access the full terms and conditions, visit www.fullertonhotels. com/fullerton-hotel-sydney/offers.

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NICOLE MCMILL AN • 4731 3055

How do you find out what is causing your dog’s allergies?

here are many reasons why pets become itchy. This week covers immunotherapy, just one solution to your pet’s itchy issues. Immunotherapy is the process of testing your dog to see what it is allergic to and then making up a vaccine to desensitise them to those allergens. So how do you find out what your dog is allergic to? Intradermal testing This is the most reliable method. It involves injecting a very small amount of a purified allergen just under the skin and then waiting for about 30 minutes to see if they have a reaction. We normally inject between 50-65 different allergens into a shaved patch on the side of the chest while your dog is under sedation. The allergens that are injected include a variety of grasses, weeds and trees that are found in NSW as well as various moulds, insects and house dust mites. Unfortunately, we

cannot test for every possible allergen and in about 10 per cent of cases the skin test will be negative – if that is the case then we cannot desensitise them as we do not know what they are allergic to. Blood testing There is a blood test available which also tests for allergy to about 55 different allergens. These allergens are the same as those that we look at with the skin test. Blood testing relies on a currently active allergic response, so your dog needs to be showing signs for the test to be valid. Again, about 20 per cent of blood tests will be falsely negative. The advantage of immunotherapy over all other treatments is that it is very safe, it is an infrequent treatment – often only having an injection every few weeks, and it is the only treatment that offers any hope of a cure. Many dogs will stay on immunotherapy for life but there are a number who will be cured after a few years on treatment.

Allergy testing and immunotherapy is a safe treatment which offers the possibility of a cure. There are a percentage of cases that will test negative and a percentage of cases that will not respond to the immunotherapy. Unfortunately, it is not possible to know which patient will fall into that category and it may be that you will go through 12 months of injections with no good result. Dr Karyn Wesselingh at Greencross Vets Coreen Ave can step you through the process. She has been involved in all aspects of small animal practice from emergency to routine surgery and has gained her MANZSC in small animal medicine and also her Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons – Certificate in Veterinary Dermatology. If your pet is itchy and you need help to find the source of the problem, call the team on 4731 3055 to arrange an appointment with Dr Karyn.

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

SPORT

RISING STAR

Dean earns plenty of praise p.57

Jonah Palu and Campbell Kean are both eager for their respective sports to resume. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Rival codes united NATHAN TAYLOR

ith community sport returning to Penrith in the coming weeks, major sporting organisations in NSW have come together to provide a collaborative agreement for sport across the state. Cricket NSW, NSW Rugby League, Football NSW, NSW Rugby Union and AFL NSW/ACT have agreed to a clear delineation between the summer sport of cricket and the winter football codes for shared grounds and facilities. The Agreement seeks a simplified and united consensus for NSW winter sport

community competitions to conclude no later than October 11 2020, including finals, and community cricket competitions to conclude no later than April 5 2021, including finals. In a win for local participants, the governing bodies have taken a united approach in response to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions delaying the start of the 2020 winter sport competitions. The Agreement acknowledges that the participants will continue to work together to manage exceptions to ground access and the agreed season changeovers, particularly with regard to the conduct of higher-level, Premier and State representative sport competitions.

The Agreement does not apply if there is no crossover between the winter sports and cricket at a particular sporting facility. In the Penrith Local Government Area, around 20 sporting grounds are affected by summer and winter sports crossovers including Dukes Oval (Emu Plains), Jamison Park, Eileen Cammack Reserve (South Penrith), Ched Towns Reserve, Blue Hills Reserve (Glenmore Park), Chapman Gardens (Kingswood), Paterson Oval (Cambridge Park), Andromeda Drive Reserve (Cranebrook), Village Oval (Jordan Springs), Myrtle Road Fields (Claremont Meadows), Cook Park, The Kingsway (St Marys), Boronia Park

(North St Marys), Potter Fields (Colyton), Cook and Banks Reserve (St Clair), Peppertree Reserve (Erskine Park), Ridge Park (Oxley Park) and Gow Park (Mulgoa). The CEOs of the respective state sporting organisations welcomed the agreement. “This show of unity and collaboration comes during a period of dramatic impact for sport in our state,” the CEOs said in a joint statement. “This agreement clearly puts community sport as the central focus of all the sporting codes. We thank local councils, the sporting community and our volunteers for their patience and support.”

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

AFL

Giants’ rough resumption Plenty of work to do for GWS after 20-point home loss to North Melbourne NATHAN TAYLOR

WS Giants coach Leon Cameron was filthy on Sunday after his side were completely outplayed by North Melbourne in the first game back following the COVID-19 shutdown. Playing in front of a smattering of fans at Giants Stadium, the home team were far from their best with the Kangaroos playing strongly in the second half to record a 80-60 victory. Five unanswered goals on either side of three- quarter time provided the foundations for the win, with coach Cameron praising the opposition in spades postmatch. “You always judge effort in every footy club and our effort was below the Kangaroos and that was the disappointing part,” he said after the game. “We only played little patches of play here and there, whereas they played a good consistent brand the entire 100 minutes. “We just did not roll up our sleeves and get down and dirty for long enough and they clearly did.”

Giants coach Leon Cameron was feeling dejected after Sunday’s game. With the Giants due to play the bottomplaced Western Bulldogs at the MCG tonight, Cameron had very little time

this week to ascertain what exactly went wrong against the Roos last weekend. He said he needs to get to the bottom of

the form slump quickly to avoid a repeat performance. “We are playing in five days’ time against the Bulldogs down there in Melbourne, so we need to find some answers pretty quick because, if you serve up that again, you’ll be sitting there saying the same thing,” Cameron said. “We are a really proud group but, like every club, you have your ups and downs. We’re not going to hang on it because it’s a five- day turnaround and we have to prepare ourselves for the Bulldogs. “But we also need to look at some of the things that were clearly of concern and then we get out on centre stage on Friday night.” Whether Cameron will admit it or not there were some positives to take out of the 20- point loss with skipper Stephen Coniglio (19 disposals, 10 tackles) and Lachie Whitfield (19 disposals) playing well, while former captain Callan Ward (21 disposals, one goal) got through his return from a knee reconstruction unscathed. GWS, last year’s Grand Finalists, are clinging onto eighth spot heading into tonight’s Round 3 clash against the Bulldogs. First bounce is at 7.50pm.

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Diamond Dean Softball youngster honoured by local Sports Foundation NATHAN TAYLOR

e may only be 11-years- old, but Penrith City Softball Association’s (PCSA) Dean Lawlis is already proving to be an asset on and off the softball diamond. The South Penrith resident took up the popular sport five years ago and is quickly becoming a well-rounded player, always going above and beyond for his club and PCSA representative team members. Dean’s dedication and commitment to softball paid off this week, becoming the latest recipient of Penrith Valley Sports Foundation’s Reach for the Sky Encouragement Award. Dean is a very determined and hardworking softballer, playing representative softball for the last three years with Penrith City. He’s represented the U11 and U12 age groups and often plays and practices with older players to improve his game. Club officials regularly praise his work ethic at training and he always has a big smile on his face, laughing and enjoying his time on the softball diamond.

What makes Dean a special part of the association is that he’s always one of the first kids to put his hand up when volunteers are called to help on Saturday game-days. When he’s not hitting balls into the outfield, you’ll often find Dean setting up or packing up without any fuss. While his mum is playing softball as well, he always asks Committee members if there is anything else he can help with to pass the time. A true softball ambassador at such a young age, Dean always helps and encourages other kids when they are struggling to learn a drill. With an incredibly bright future ahead, Dean Lawlis will be one to watch as he gets older. Nominated by Jo Beach, Vice President of Representative Affairs at Penrith City Softball Association, Dean’s Reach for the Sky Encouragement Award is thanks to sponsors St Marys Leagues Club and Skypeak Adventures. If you or someone you know has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

Local softballer Dean Lawlis. There are three categories to be nominated in: Reach for the Sky (up to 10 years); Junior Sports Star (11- 16 years); and Senior Sports Star (over 16 years). Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Wanderers back on the training field

Story continued from » p. 60 Western Sydney Wanderers Chairman and Australian Professional Football Clubs Association Chairman Paul Lederer said he was excited that the A- League was returning. “This is really great news for football fans across Australia and I am so pleased that their patience has been rewarded,” he said. “The clubs are very excited to get playing again, and to be able to deliver the game to our wonderful football community, especially at a time when grassroots football competition will be back in action.” FFA Head of Leagues Greg O’Rourke said all players have to be tested for COVID- 19 before returning to training. “We will announce details of the revised draw for the remaining 27 matches of the regular season shortly, which will be contested over a period of 28 days, plus the five Finals Series matches,” he said. The season returns on July 16.

the western weekender » Friday, June 19, 2020

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Friday, June 19, 2020 « the western weekender

BASEBALL

Baseball faces shake-up No Penrith Panthers brand in new season, as sport takes a fresh local approach NATHAN TAYLOR

he upcoming NSW State Baseball League season will look a little different when it gets underway later this year, with the Penrith Baseball Club endorsing the Greater Western Baseball Association (GWBA) as a regional entrant. The news means the Penrith Panthers won’t field a team during the upcoming 2020/21 baseball season, with the Greater Western Warriors to grace the local Andrews Road facility instead. In a statement to Penrith Baseball Club members, President Shaun Bowen said the decision to merge was beneficial to all parties involved. “We’ve been in discussion with the GWBA Executive Committee about how to best utilise the State Baseball League entry in terms of maximising benefits for the club directly, as well as growth of the sport in the region,” he said. “After consideration of the growing financial and administrative burdens, as well as having input from a cross section of the club’s members, it has been decided that Penrith Baseball Club will

GWBA President, Michael Bryan. Photo: Megan Dunn. accept the application put forward and endorse GWBA as a regional entrant for the upcoming season.” Under the agreement, GWBA will use existing infrastructure to train and play out of Andrews Road for home weekend

fixtures; Penrith Baseball Club will provide canteen services, retaining all takings; GWBA will be responsible for all administrative and operational costs of the State League entry; Penrith will hold a permanent voting position on the GWBA’s

State League sub- committee; and GWBA will endorse Penrith as the local entrant in the Baseball NSW Women’s League. Speaking with the Weekender, long-time GWBA President Michael Bryan said the merger will do wonders for baseball in the local area. “We’ve got a big surge of support for GWBA with our juniors and our representative brand being the Warriors,” he said. “If we can get all of our juniors, who often leave to play for Blacktown or Macarthur in the State Baseball League, to stay and play for an entry in the region then I believe the team would be quite strong.” GWBA will enter teams in first, second and third grade as well as the U18s competition. They will hold trials in the upcoming months and encourage former Penrith players to take part. “While the coaches will be completely different, we expect a lot of those Penrith players to be involved,” Bryan said. “Our plan is to fill our squads with Greater Western juniors, pull back some of our marquee players that are playing elsewhere, and give it a red-hot crack.”

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ollowing three months of non- stop Netflix and PlayStation, Western Sydney Wanderers players finally put their remotes down and returned to training this week after Football Federation Australia (FFA) struck a deal to resume the 2019/20 A-League season. The A- League will play the remaining 27 matches of its regular season over just 28 days in what promises to be a feast for football fans. The 2019/20 season, which was abruptly halted due to the Coronavirus pandemic in March, will now conclude by the end of August. While a final deal has not been reached with broadcasters, the A- League will push ahead with its return after an agreement was reached between FFA, its clubs and Professional Footballers Australia. “I’d like to thank the players and clubs for their commitment to re- starting the season. These are extremely challenging times and I’d like to acknowledge the leadership shown by all to ensure our loyal supporters across Australia will be able to see their favourite teams back in action again soon,” FFA Chief Executive James Johnson said. Story continues on » p. 57

Western Sydney Wanderers players were tested for COVID-19 on Monday.

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