Western Weekender March 10 2023

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New details emerge of teacher’s awful death

the couple since the previous night. It is alleged that one of her friends found Finlay-Jones’ body laying on the bedroom floor.

Court documents have revealed harrowing new claims about the night a teacher was allegedly murdered at a Cranebrook home.

Ashley Gaddie, 33, appeared in Penrith Local Court on Friday, March 3, charged with the murder of 31-yearold Dannielle Finlay-Jones.

Police allege that the pair met on an online dating application and had been on two dates prior to the evening of December 17.

They claim that the pair attended a social event in Marsden Park where Finlay-Jones introduced Gaddie as her new partner.

Before midnight they allegedly left in a rideshare vehicle to stay the evening at a friend’s residence in Cranebrook.

Finlay-Jones was last seen alive when she entered a spare bedroom with Gaddie.

According to police, one of the residents was woken by what he described as “loud violent sex” between FinlayJones and the accused.

About 1.30pm their friends thought it was odd that they hadn’t heard from

Police allege that she was found with heavy bruising on her face, a bloody nose and finger impressions on her throat.

According to documents tendered to the court, interim post-mortem results indicate that the 31-year-old was strangled to death.

Emergency services were called to the scene who pronounced FinlayJones dead on arrival.

Court documents reveal that information from witnesses, CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and telephone interception led police to suspect that the accused is solely responsible for the murder of Finlay-Jones.

Fingerprints matching the accused’s were raised from the window flyscreen that Gaddie allegedly cut before fleeing the scene.

In the days following Finlay-Jones’ murder, officers from Nepean Police Area Command made numerous inquiries into Gaddie’s whereabouts.

Two days after the incident, a call was intercepted between the accused and his mother.

“We slept in separate beds,” he

allegedly told her. “She wanted to have sex… I said no.

“I didn’t do it, I f**ken panicked… I woke up at 9.30 and there’s a f**ken body in the next room.”

Gaddie was arrested at Fletcher’s Lookout in the Blue Mountains after a tense stand-off with police on Wednesday, December 21.

The accused, who has been behind bars since December last year, was not required on screen.

He was represented by a lawyer who told Magistrate George Zdenkowski that Friday’s proceedings would not require much court time.

The court heard that police were pursuing an application to use a DNA sample as evidence.

Although Gaddie did not consent, police say taking a forensic swab from his private parts will be useful in determining whether he had intercourse with Finlay-Jones in the hours prior to her death.

Gaddie has not applied for bail and will remain in custody on remand until the next court date.

The court heard that he will appear via video link on the next occasion.

Gaddie is due to reappear before Penrith Local Court on Friday, April 28.

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•

Dannielle Finlay-Jones died in a Cranebrook home last December.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

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The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Three years on: How Coronavirus shifted our thinking on everything

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Amemory popped up on my Instagram on Monday of my wife and I sitting at a Gold Coast rooftop enjoying a pina colada in the last throes of the summer of 2020; almost oblivious of what was to come.

There is no set ‘anniversary’ as far as COVID-19 is concerned but let’s just circle March in the calendar as the month where everything changed three years ago.

After all, Australia’s first case of COVID on January 25 barely rated a mention, and even when we recorded our first death some five weeks later, nobody was predicting the scale of disaster that was to come.

In fact when OZWAC cancelled its Penrith charity ball, scheduled for May that year, in the first week of March, I thought they were crazy. But given the medical professionals involved in the organisation, it was pretty obvious they were on to something.

By March 15, the NSW Government had cancelled all major events of more than 500 people, and a few days later the Federal Government closed the borders and, for the first time, ‘social distancing’ became part of the Australian vocabulary.

And so began what was, essentially, two years of lockdowns, uncertainty, panic, concern, arguments and contradictions.

It is somewhat hard to fathom now.

The fear that would shudder through your body when you found out you were at Woolies within 15 minutes of somebody who’d tested positive to COVID-19.

the bad, and the ugly of the pandemic; and how it shifted our thinking.

There is no question that for many, COVID was more than just an inconvenience. Loved ones were lost, health was impacted, important milestones were missed and jobs destroyed. We should never forget that, and not for one second does anyone make light of those situations.

But you can’t reflect on that time in our lives without looking at what changed, how it changed, and how we rose above some of the extraordinary challenges it presented.

Not that I’m sitting on a high horse here; I think we all broke the odd rule during that time, surely.

The vaccination debate COVID inevitably sparked was extraordinary to watch unfold too. I have no doubt it claimed many longterm friendships that, until that time, had seemed unbreakable.

Now, it seems somewhat frivolous. And with the emotion taken out of it, it’s easy to take a step back and understand why people were hesitant and fearful; and equally why others were so adamant that it was our ticket to freedom.

I am one of the lucky ones when it comes to COVID-19.

I kept my job, and my memories of lockdown are actually overwhelmingly positive; particularly given our first baby had entered the world at that time; meaning more time at home to soak up a special period of life.

But it was the simple things, too.

Friday night takeaway from Checho’s, and the latest episode of ‘Ted Lasso’.

A morning walk, which at times felt almost like a privilege depending on which postcode you lived in. You’d see the same people every day and give an understanding nod.

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The famous 11am press conferences, hanging on the quest for a “zero day”, knowing that in reality, it was a temporary state of being. A connected world, or a limo driver, would catch up with us eventually. Zoom meetings, empty offices, Netflix binges like the perfectly timed ‘Tiger King’, the quest to make the perfect sourdough.

As I look through the coverage the Weekender presented during 2020, 2021 and the first part of 2022, and some of the extraordinary pictures of closed shops and empty streets, it’s hard not to reflect on the good,

For me that period was also learning about human behaviour more than anything else. We were given a first hand look at how people act differently in the same situation; from those who went overboard trying to protect themselves, to those who couldn’t care less.

Oh, and the conspiracy theorists. How good were they?

There were the rule followers; an extra person on Christmas Day could see police storming through the door with a finger-waving Dr Kerry Chant leading them in.

And then the rule breakers; we’ve all heard the stories about how people got around various restrictions to suit what they deemed to be more important than the overall protection of society.

Sport behind closed doors, giving us something to look forward to every weekend.

When things opened up, albeit slightly, the feeling of having dinner in a restaurant again, or going to the movies (and wow, did I see some ordinary movies during that time!).

No matter what it was you lost during COVID, if you were fortunate enough to get it back, it came with a fresh perspective.

The next time you’re at a packed Accor Stadium watching a sporting event or concert, take a look around and reflect on how a short time ago, it was all taken away.

Three years on, with lockdowns and restrictions well behind us, COVID-19 is quickly becoming a history lesson, not a reality check. But we should heed the lessons it taught us, and not lose the perspectives it offered to us all.

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Open Forum on Western Sydney International Airport

Open Forum on Western Sydney International Airport

Open Forum on Western Sydney International Airport

Members of the public are invited to observe the Forum on Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA) at 2pm Saturday 18 March 2023 at the Penrith Panthers Rugby League Club, 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith. The forum will discuss the flight path design process and future release of the draft flight paths Environmental Impact Statement.

Members of the public are invited to observe the Forum on Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA) at 2pm Saturday 18 March 2023 at the Penrith Panthers Rugby League Club, 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith. The forum will discuss the flight path design process and future release of the draft flight paths Environmental Impact Statement.

Members of the public are invited to observe the Forum on Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA) at 2pm Saturday 18 March 2023 at the Penrith Panthers Rugby League Club, 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith. The forum will discuss the flight path design process and future release of the draft flight paths Environmental Impact Statement.

Limited seats available. Please reserve your seat at www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au/fowsa

Limited seats available. Please reserve your seat at www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au/fowsa

Limited seats available. Please reserve your seat at www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au/fowsa

You can submit questions for the forum to FOWSA@infrastructure.gov.au by 15 March 2023.

You can submit questions for the forum to FOWSA@infrastructure.gov.au by 15 March 2023.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts will be on site one hour before and after the meeting to answer your questions outside of the forum. All are welcome to meet with the department, however only ticketholders will be able to observe the meeting.

You can submit questions for the forum to FOWSA@infrastructure.gov.au by 15 March 2023. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts will be on site one hour before and after the meeting to answer your questions outside of the forum. All are welcome to meet with the department, however only ticketholders will be able to observe the meeting.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts will be on site one hour before and after the meeting to answer your questions outside of the forum. All are welcome to meet with the department, however only ticketholders will be able to observe the meeting.

www.infrastructure.gov.au

www.infrastructure.gov.au

“You can’t reflect on that time in our lives without looking at what changed, how it changed, and how we rose above some of the extraordinary challenges”

ICAC clears Ayres

No questions to answer over John Barilaro

tion last year and consumed the political news cycle for weeks.

and Investment Commissioner to the Americas.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has cleared State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres of any wrongdoing over the scandal that cost him his Cabinet posi-

ICAC revealed on Monday it has undertaken an extensive investigation into the appointment of John Barilaro as Senior Trade

trade

It investigated whether Barilaro, Ayres, Amy Brown or any other public official breached public trust, or exercised their official functions dishonestly or partially, or adversely affected the honest or impartial exercise

role saga

of official functions by any public official.

“The investigation did not identify any evidence of corrupt conduct. As a result, the Commission has discontinued its investigation,” ICAC said in a statement.

“The Commission does not propose taking any further action with respect to the matter.”

During the course of the investigation, the Commission obtained information and documents from various sources by issuing notices under sections 21 and 22 of the ICAC Act and summonses under s 35 of the ICAC Act The Commission also conducted a number of interviews and obtained oral evidence from witnesses in a number of compulsory examinations.

Premier Dominic Perrottet had previously indicated that Ayres would return to Cabinet if the Coalition retains government, and Ayres wins his seat at the State Election.

Ayres was previously cleared by a separate investigation.

MAN FACES COURT OVER BAD CRASH

A man charged over his involvement in a serious three-vehicle crash in St Marys earlier this year has been granted bail until at least his next court appearance.

James Cabando, 23, fronted Penrith Local Court on Monday, March 6, charged with ‘dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – drive manner dangerous’ and ‘negligent driving (occasions grievous bodily harm)’.

It is alleged that he was involved in a collision with a Yamaha motorcycle and Kia Cerato at around 7am on Tuesday, February 21.

According to police, emergency services were called to the intersection of Forrester Road and Griffiths Street in St Marys following reports of the crash.

It is alleged that Cabando, who was driving a Hyundai i20, was not injured in the accident, but the 25-year-old motorcycle rider that he collided with sustained serious leg and arm injuries that will require surgery and ongoing treatment.

A 27-year-old woman, who was driving the Kia at the time of the incident, was taken to hospital as a precaution and was later released.

According to police, the crime scene was forensically examined by the Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit.

At around 7.30pm the same day, the accused was arrested at a Hebersham home and taken to Mt Druitt Police Station.

He was released on conditional bail, which will continue until his next court date later this month.

Cabando is due to reappear before Penrith Local Court on Monday, March 21.

State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

TROY DODDS

- Makayla Muscat

Duo misled police, court hears

nile grabbing the 16-year-old by the hair and ramming his head into a gyprock wall before kicking him in the head.

Woman dies in Llandilo crash

ATregear man and Kingswood teen have pleaded guilty to concealing the alleged murder of a 16-year-old.

Rebyll Oaariki, 24, and Thomas Pakau, 18, reappeared at Penrith Local Court on Friday, March 3, charged with ‘conceal serious indictable offence’.

They are just two of the 11 people involved in an incident which saw five juveniles and two adults charged with ‘murder’.

It is alleged that they failed to give information to a member of the NSW Police Force despite knowing that some of the group had allegedly murdered the teen.

According to court documents, the 16-year-old was lured to a Doonside home on August 4, 2021, and savagely set upon over the alleged theft of a pair of Apple AirPods.

Immediately after entering the residence, he was taken to a spare bedroom and assaulted.

Three gruesome videos are described at length in alleged police facts tendered to the court.

It is alleged that the 16-year-old’s clothes had been removed and the juveniles could be seen punching, kicking and stomping on him.

At one point a juvenile even ordered another to film their role in the beating.

“Oi film this for me… I’m going to kill this c**t and put him through the wall,” one juvenile allegedly told the other.

Another juvenile allegedly was heard saying: “Enough, wait until I’m finished then you can f**king put him through the wall”.

Another recording allegedly shows a juve-

“Get up c**t. We’re going to take you to the other house… so the other c**ts can f**k you up,” they allegedly said.

It is alleged that Oaariki and Pakau left with the deceased’s jumper before police and ambulance officers arrived.

The 16-year-old was found unresponsive with head and neck injuries.

Ambulance officers were able to restart his heart before taking him to Westmead Hospital, however it has since been revealed that he died from “complications of multiple force injuries to the body”.

Court documents reveal that a 19-year-old, who lives at the residence, told police that “two black guys” chased the 16-year-old inside and assaulted him for about 10 minutes before running from the scene.

She then allegedly re-created a gargling sound whilst laughing and told police that was the deceased choking on his own blood as he was gasping for air.

It is believed that Oaariki and Pakau left the scene shortly after the deceased arrived.

At 6am on October 26, 2021, Pakau was arrested and taken to Mount Druitt Police Station.

Oaariki attended Blacktown Police Station where he was arrested and taken into custody on November 1, 2021.

When he participated in an electronically recorded interview, he told police that he went to the house to get alcohol and that he did not see the assault take place.

Oaariki and Pakau will both reappear before Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, May 10.

Ayoung woman died this week following a serious two-vehicle car accident in Llandilo.

Just before 9am on Tuesday, March 7, emergency services were called to Eighth Avenue, following reports of a crash on the bridge between Llandilo and Shanes Park.

The driver of a hatchback – a woman believed to be aged in her 20s – died at the scene.

The driver of the other car – a 29-year-old woman – and her three-year-old passenger were uninjured.

She was taken to Nepean Hospital for mandatory testing.

Officers attached to Mount Druitt Police Area Command established a crime scene as police investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Eighth Avenue bridge over South Creek was closed in both directions and motorists were advised to avoid the area as officers investigated.

Local resident Michael Wiecek, who was one of the first on the scene, said he has witnessed numerous accidents on the bridge, which needed to be upgraded.

“We have lived with the bridge immediately in front of our property since 1979 or 1980 and it was a narrow old bridge then and is substantially older now,” Wiecek told the Weekender

“The bridge is too narrow for modern cars and trucks especially when the speed limit is 80 kilometres per hour and changes to 60 kilometres per hour one kilometre west of the bridge.”

Anyone with information about Tuesday’s incident or has dashcam vision that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Mount Druitt Police.

The scene of the crash on Tuesday morning.

Photo: Michael Wiecek.

The crash scene.

Photo: Michael Wiecek.

EMILY FESZCZUK

Tears for memories lost

Tony Aoun was devastated to see his family home in Colyton had erupted in flames last week, and is now doing everything he can to support his parents in getting back on their feet.

The home on Milton Street was purchased 34 years ago, just before Aoun was born. Being the youngest of five children, he recalls endless happy memories between the now crumbling walls.

“When the fire happened, all these memories rushed back. It felt like we were grieving a loss,” he told the Weekender

“I look at the house and I think of me and my sister running a muck up and down the hallway, my brother hiding gold coins all over the house and us siblings searching for them – all those memories that I haven’t thought of for a very long time.”

The home, which housed his parents Mona and John Aoun and his two siblings, went up in flames on the morning of Tuesday, February 28. Thankfully, with Aoun’s father and brother out of the house, his mum and sister were able to escape unharmed. However, the house itself has been reduced to rubble.

Having moved out just two years ago with his wife, Aoun recalls the moment he first heard what had happened.

“It was my first day off of the week, and I was

asleep. My wife was at work, and my phone was off and on charge. My mother-in-law runs in and says, ‘Tony, the house is on fire, you need to talk to your sister’,” he said.

“I don’t even know how I got there, but once I did, the street was full of fire trucks, ambulances, cop cars – it just felt like a movie set, it didn’t feel real. I’m looking at it, bawling my

eyes out and thinking, ‘Is this even happening?’.”

The family have tackled both health issues and family trauma over the last 10 years, with Aoun adding that the fire was “the last thing they ever needed”.

“I’ve never seen my father cry, besides when his father passed away. When he finally got

there, all kinds of emotions all at once came out of him – he’s crying, he’s so confused looking at his house, he was angry, he was frustrated, stressed,” Aoun said.

“With Mum, I’ve seen her be very emotional with family tragedies and health issues, but I’ve never seen her cry when there’s just nothing I can do.”

Aoun notes that the support from the local community, both immediately following the incident and in the days that have followed, has been immense.

“The first person to the scene was a woman who messaged me on Facebook, she was there comforting Mum first before anyone got there, any of my family members, my neighbours or anyone,” he said.

“People we’ve never met and our neighbours came out, helping us, comforting us, bringing us food and water. My sister ran out with no shoes, in her pyjamas, and one lady got her shoes as well.”

But, without insurance, the family continues to struggle, with Aoun and other relatives doing their best to put them up temporarily.

“I look at my parents and I think about my parents, and I just feel so bad. I feel guilty because I have a bedroom, I have a bed to sleep on, and my parents don’t anymore. I have a home, and my parents don’t,” he said.

“We’re trying to sort things out right now, but we take it day by day.”

To donate, visit bit.ly/3ZpJk7F.

Mona and Tony Aoun standing in the remains of the Colyton home. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Contact Us

Administration

Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

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

Services

Waste Services 4732 7777

Illegal Dumping

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

Graffiti Hotline Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

20 March – 7pm Online via penrith.city (Ordinary Meeting)

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Join us for a great morning planting trees at Corio Drive Reserve in St Clair on Saturday, 25 March 2023 from 9am–12pm. We’re planting 580 native plants grown by Council’s Nursery to help provide additional shade that will have long-lasting cooling benefits for the community. Refreshments, materials and a BBQ lunch will be provided.

Registrations are required, so let us know you’re coming at penrith.city/events

● Do you have old, broken and unwanted electronic items you want to dispose of? Pack them into the boot of your car or trailer and bring your items down to our free E-waste Drop-off Day on Saturday 18 March, to the new location at The Kingsway Playing Fields car park in Werrington. Between 9am and 3.30pm, friendly staff will unpack boots and trailers and arrange for the day’s e-waste to be recycled and disposed of safely and correctly. Residents are requested to remain in their vehicles when arriving at the event. For more information, visit penrith.city/events

● Relax into the weekend at Penrith Producers on Friday, 31 March 2023 from 5pm to 9pm at Triangle Park, Penrith. Triangle Park will come alive with street food, a Beer Garden, unique market stalls featuring local artisans and producers, as well as a Kids Zone and live music bringing the entertainment. It’s the perfect way to unwind, eat and play. Bring your family and friends and enjoy a night out in your local city!

This is the first of four Penrith Producers events in 2023, for further information on the event series go to penrith.city/events

● Come along to Penrith’s inaugural Mayoral Charity Ball and help make a difference! The Mayoral Charity Ball is a black-tie event that will be held at Panthers Penrith on Friday, 5 May 2023 and will raise much-needed funds for a local charity. Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen has chosen to support The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter, which provides emergency accommodation and assistance for local women and their children fleeing domestic violence situations.

Local businesses, investors, government organisations, community groups and residents will come together for the evening to hear real stories and contribute to a brighter future for women and children impacted by domestic violence in our community.

Tickets cost $200 and include a donation to The Haven. The event will include entertainment, a three-course meal, drinks, a silent auction, and a show.

Find out more at penrith.city/events

Public Exhibition

Voluntary Planning Agreement for Microsoft Datacenter

Penrith City Council is publicly notifying a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Council and Microsoft Datacenter (Australia) Pty Ltd. The VPA has been prepared in connection with the proposed development of 769 Mamre Road, Kemps Creek (known as Lot 2 DP 1271142) under State Significant Development Application 10101987.

The VPA secures the payment of a monetary contribution payable to Penrith City Council to be used by Penrith City Council for provision of open space and landscape embellishment within the Mamre Road Precinct.

A copy of the VPA and explanatory note can be viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au

The notification period is from Thursday, 9 March 2023 to Thursday, 6 April 2023.

For enquiries: Please contact Natalie White, Planner on 4732 7833 or email natalie.white@penrith.city

Integrated Development

Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the development application is Penrith Local Planning Panel.

• Visy Glass Operations (Australia) Pty Ltd DA22/1210 Lot 13 DP 217705, 130–172 Andrews Road, Penrith Integrated Development to carry out alterations and additions to existing glass container manufacturing facility, including a new oxygen generation plant and silos.

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the Environment Protection Authority. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary office hours, until Tuesday, 4 April 2023.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA22/1210.

For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Sandra Fagan on 4732 7992.

From humble beginnings, Clover Fields now rules the soap world

Australia’s oldest family-owned soap maker, Clover Fields, has celebrated a milestone birthday this week, marking four decades of innovation, empowerment, and a whole lot of soap.

Owner, Liz Valek, started Clover Fields in 1983, when a leg injury forced her to switch gears from starting a new job at Westmead Hospital, to spending her time crafting for her local Anglican Church.

But, what started as a hobby quickly became a growing small business, with Valek selling soaps in pharmacies, bringing in machinery from Italy, and moving into a larger factory location in Penrith.

For Valek’s long-term customers, it comes as no surprise as to why her business has been so successful over so many decades, with Clover Fields being the first company in Australia to manufacture non-tallow based soaps, and setting the trend of nude, pantry-style soaps, which were uncommon in Australia at the time.

“We were the first people to do pantry-style of anything,” she said.

“Nobody bought soap like that in Australia, people said, ‘Well we don’t want it if it’s not wrapped up’, and I was devastated, because I put all my money into it. Now, that’s every day, and every market you go to, but that was cutting edge when

Development Applications

The following Development Applications have been received by Council:

• Urban Planning & Building Consultants

334–338 Mt Vernon Road, Mount Vernon

we did it 40 years ago, so we’ve always been brave.”

Valek’s commitment to the environment didn’t end there.

In 2018, she started Clover Fields’ sister company Shampoo With A Purpose – a ground-breaking range of shampoo bars that Valek collaborated on with her daughter Geneva,

which has now saved more than two million plastic bottles from being made. Those shampoo bars are now Clover Fields’ top selling product.

“We were the first company to do proper shampoo bars that aren’t just doctored up soap. We spent two years getting that formula right, because my daughter had seen them in Canada and the US, and she said, ‘Can’t you do that, Mum?’,” Valek said.

“Initially, I told her that it was really hard on the machinery, because it’s not soap, it’s an entirely different structure, and she said, ‘Well, I think if you did, this is going to sweep the world, because the plastic-free movement is really going to be something’.”

Another change over the course of the company’s duration has been shifting from being a manufacturer and wholesale to doing direct retail – something Valek admits was a scary move.

“We pack pallets and whole boxes of stuff, because that’s what we do, not one. We didn’t just sell one soap,” she said.

“It was a whole shift for the company, we had to get a skillset for

Approved Development Applications

• Tom White

DA22/0748

Demolition of existing dwelling and outbuilding, site remediation works and construction of a single storey dwelling, shed and OSSM

Contact: Adem Sertlioglu on 4732 7490

Closing Date: Monday, 27 March 2023

• Cyclo Construction & Fitout Pty Ltd

31 & 33 Oxford Street, Cambridge Park

DA23/0100

Demolition of existing structures, tree removal and construction of a childcare facility x 104 children with basement parking and associated works

Contact: Jane Hetherington on 4732 8078

Closing Date: Monday, 27 March 2023

• Stimson Urban & Regional Planning

DA23/0112 2115–2131 Castlereagh Road, Penrith

2-sided digital pylon sign

Contact: Sandra Fagan on 4732 7992

Closing Date: Monday, 27 March 2023

• N.F. Billyard Pty Ltd

494 High Street, Penrith

DA23/0106

Staged alterations and additions to existing single storey commercial building including expansion of ground floor for parking & loading area and construction of 2 additional storeys to form 3-storey commercial building containing 4 tenancies

Contact: Lauren Van Etten on 4732 8222

Closing Date: Monday, 27 March 2023

Development Consent/s Determined

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

DA22/0935

Lot H1 DP 164531, 45 Harris Street, North St Marys Alterations and additions to an industrial building including signage and use of the building for animal health manufacturing and packaging (expansion of existing operations on the adjoining site)

• Susan Booth

DA22/1120

Lot 257 DP 240525, 33 Chesterfield Road, South Penrith Deck and awning

• Maja Popovic

DA22/0460

Lot 238 DP 253813, 29 Chateau Crescent, St Clair Additions and alterations to the existing dwelling and detached secondary dwelling

• Maldini’S Cafe Pizza Restaurant

DA22/1100

Lot 3 DP 30354, 78–88 Tench Avenue, Jamisontown

Construction of outdoor take away service area for existing café/restaurant (Tenancy T9)

• Raid Oda

DA22/1181

Lot 19 DP 248645, 27 Enfield Street, Jamisontown

Secondary Dwelling, carport and demolition works

• Instep Management Group Pty Ltd

DA22/0912 Lot 185 DP 239628, 233 Parker Street, South Penrith

Installation of a manufactured home to be used as a secondary dwelling

• Instep Management Group Pty Ltd

DA22/1079

Lot 352 DP 752021, 15 Tadmore Road, Cranebrook

Installation of manufactured home as secondary dwelling

• Urban City Planning

DA22/1074

Lot 165 DP 1039929, 10–18 Fourth Road, Berkshire Park Change of use (retrospective) of part of an existing shed to a secondary dwelling and installation of an OSSM System

• Slr Consulting

DA22/1200

Lot 4 DP 565623, Lot 4 Dunheved Road, Werrington County

everyone, from top to bottom, and for five years, we’ve done that well, so much so that it’s half of our business now, so we’re proud of that.”

Clover Fields has grown over 40 years to become loved by customers young and old, from all over the world. Reaching the milestone has been an emotional time for Valek, especially with the anniversary coinciding with the grand re-opening of their factory shop at 26 Peachtree Road, Penrith.

“I’m proud of my team, I’m proud that it’s 40 years, it’s just really overwhelming at the moment,” she said.

Though she says she likely won’t be around to see where the company goes in the next 40 years, Valek has big dreams for Clover Fields.

“When I retire and pass this company on, it’ll be in good stead. It’s a great company,” she said.

“Before COVID, we started heavy duty launching the company overseas, and we got some really good customers from that. Ultimately, I’d love to see our exports grow now that COVID is a thing of the past, and I’d love to change all the products over to being really super plastic-free, eco-conscious.”

Installation of electric vehicle charging stations, solar panels, battery storage units and associated works at an existing Ampol service station

• Mark Makhoul DA22/0399

Lot 39 DP 28389 & Lot 40 DP 28389, 1 Moira Crescent, St Marys

Demolition of Existing structures, tree removal and construction of a childcare centre x 89 children with basement parking and lot consolidation

• Baini Design Mod22/0202

Lot 3 DP 508698, 1 Garner Street, St Marys Section 4.55(1A) modification to DA16/0621 for a residential flat building involving internal reconfigurations, reduction to the number of units (10 residential units) and other minor amendments

• Fitzpatrick Investments Pty Ltd Mod22/0206

Lot 9 DP 1261030, Farmland, Conservation Area and Acco, 177–299 Lenore Drive, Erskine Park

Modifications to an approved warehouse development

• Sudeshni Devi DA22/0684

Lot 610 DP 736731, 195 Swallow Drive, Erskine Park Awning

Refused Development Application

• 888 Holdings Nsw Pty Ltd DA22/1168

Lot 14 DP 237831 & Lot 15 DP 237831, 14 Manning Street, Kingswood

Demolition of existing structures, tree removal and construction of a child care facility x 86 children with basement parking and associated works

Viewing of Development Applications

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

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

Liz Valek and the team from Clover Fields celebrating their 40th birthday on Monday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Joke

Week of the

Q: What did the zero say to the eight?

A: That belt looks good on you!

Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

Abrand new musical dedicated to the life and career of Tina Turner is opening at the Theatre Royal in May.

This new musical based on the life of legendary artist Tina Turner and presented in association with Tina Turner herself, received its world premiere in April 2018 in London, where it opened to five-star reviews and continues to break box office records at the Aldwych Theatre.

In March 2019, the German production opened at Stage Operettenhaus in Hamburg, the Broadway production followed in November 2019 and was nominated for 12 Tony Awards including Best Musical. The Dutch production opened at the Beatrix Theater, Utrecht, in February 2020. A third European production opened in Fall 2021 at the Teatro Coliseum in Madrid, Spain and the North American Tour commenced in September

paceway winners lucky

Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender Club members can pick up a free specially numbered

PAGE TEN SPY

bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, 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 Pace-

2022. In 2023, alongside the Australian production, there will be another European Production in Stuttgart, Germany opening in March.

One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history. For tickets and information, visit www.tinathemusical.com.au.

The Weekender has a double pass to give away to the Tuesday, May 9 7pm performance. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Tina’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, March 24 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

way 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: 0021, 0482, 0565.

Tell us exactly where this week’s featured I Spy image is located in Penrith and you could win! Email ispy@westernweekender.com.au with your answer for your chance to win two movie tickets. Our winner will be notified by email. Entries close each Wednesday at 5pm.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The green coloured ‘Australia’s 1st store, built in 2003, Penrith’ sign is located inside the newly renovated Krispy Kreme store at the Panthers complex.

New Location

SEE YOU AT THE E-WASTE DROP-OFF DAY

The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington

Saturday 18 March, 9am-3.30pm

Right now, e-waste is growing three times faster than other waste. And with the way the world is becoming more tech savvy, we need to become more e-waste savvy.

It’s so important to dispose of e-waste properly and responsibly. E-waste can’t go in your household bins.

Recycling at our E-waste Drop-off Day keeps e-waste out of landfill and our community safe.

NEVER WASTE A CHANCE TO BE GREAT WITH E-WASTE

penrith.city/events WW50404

Areport has revealed that for every $1 that Penrith City Council invested in event sponsorships last year it achieved a return on investment of $92.

A Councillor now wants bigger events in the community to further benefit Council and ratepayers.

At an Ordinary Meeting on November 28, 2022, Councillor Bernard Bratusa suggested the notion of having a report after each sponsored event with the return on investment for ratepayers and patronage.

The provision of consolidated information being provided on a six-monthly basis was agreed to and at the most recent Ordinary Meeting the period from July to December 2022 was delivered.

During the second period of last year, a total of 10 events were delivered, with $71,330 worth of sponsorship funding provided from Council.

Events that received repeat funding was the Nepean Triathlon, Penrith Paceway Christmas Carols, Veteran Cricket 60’s State Championships, Nepean Historical Society Open Day and Carols on the Course.

The CBD Christmas Tree Lighting, Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney,

James Morrison concert and the Australian Cable Park Nationals also received new sponsorship.

According to information provided by the applicants when requesting funds, anticipated attendance of all events was 30,482 but the report participation was greater at 35,060 people.

“When considering the program of events overall, the anticipated estimated economic benefit to the community of Penrith was calculated by Council officers at $5,917,275 and the revised estimated economic benefit (calculated on actual participation figures post event) was estimated to be greater at $6,543,710,” the report said.

“A review of Council’s event sponsorship during the July to December 2022 period shows it delivered positive opportunities for the exposure of Council’s brand, corporate image and destination benefits, and that the events sponsored have a strong alignment to the principles seeking to be delivered in the Events Strategy related to reach and patronage and strong economic and social benefit to community.”

While the CBD Christmas Tree Lighting had an anticipated economic benefit of $921,000 it achieved $2,051,143, and the data showed that six events had the same or generated more economic benefit

than originally estimated while four events had less than expected economic benefit compared to the original estimate.

“The highlight in there in terms of the investment we have made

bringing them to our city and ones that are internal is the figure of about $6 million that is quoted in terms of return on investment,” Bratusa said.

“If there is a message, I would like

Council staff to take away from this it is go and get more. Get international events, get national events, bring people to our city so they can see what a great city we’ve got in terms of activations.”

Jim and Gloria’s 60-year love story

mare, and now they’re all into horses,” Jim explained.

Amonumental milestone has been reached by Mulgoa residents Jim and Gloria Stevenson, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this week.

Jim and Gloria first met at a dance in Riverwood when they were 18, with Gloria originally from Beverly Hills, and Jim living in Punchbowl.

“I asked if I could take her home one night, and here we are, 60 years later,” Jim told the Weekender

The two had an off-and-on relationship for two years, and were together for a total of four before tying the knot on March 9, 1963, at the Methodist Peace Memorial Church, Beverly Hills.

At the time, Jim and Gloria lived in the side of a house in Punchbowl, with Gloria citing humble beginnings for the young couple.

“To get into the shower, we had to go in and lock their side, and we weren’t allowed to wash on the Sunday,” Gloria said.

Eventually, they got their first deposit for a house at Picnic Point, where they first got into horses – a hobby the whole family, consisting now of three children, eight grandchildren and a great grandchild, with another on the way, has gotten involved in since.

“It all started off with me breeding a couple of trotters and getting my old man’s old

“One son’s got 40 acres at Richmond, our other son in Orange has got 120 acres out there, and our daughter has just moved into one acre at Silverdale. I think it’s been a great thing for them. They all love it, and now our grandkids are all into polocrosse.”

After a few years, the couple moved to Horsley Park, before heading to Luddenham, and then to Mulgoa, where they’ve now lived for 32 years.

Despite all the moves, Jim and Gloria assure that their family has remained close, and is the backbone of their marriage.

“We have three good kids – Sandra, Kevin, and Gary – we’re very lucky,” Gloria said.

Though the couple have done a lot of travelling over the years, with a standout being their trip to Africa, they now enjoy playing golf at Wallacia Golf Club and looking after their property.

Jim and Gloria will be celebrating the big day with a party on Saturday, planned by friends and family.

“They put that on us,” Jim laughed.

They said, ‘Do you know what you’re doing Saturday week?, and I said, ‘No, what’s happening?’.”

Do you have a special milestone coming up? We’d love to hear about it! Email the details to news@westernweekender.com.

au. Gloria and Jim Stevenson have been married for 60 years. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Cranebrook: Vehicles destroyed by fire, police search for clues

Police are searching for two people after a fire in Cranebrook.

About 1am on Tuesday, February 28, two unknown people approached a residence on Mount Close, Cranebrook.

A white Hyundai i30 and a black Toyota Landcruiser were parked on the street outside when the people poured an accelerant underneath the vehicles and then set fire to the ground.

The unknown persons fled in a nearby vehicle before NSW Fire and Rescue attended promptly and extinguished the fire.

Both vehicles were damaged.

Police are appealing to the community for anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam, or mobile phone footage to contact Penrith Police Station or Crime Stoppers.

Werrington: Drug equipment found during police raid of home

A local man has been charged after three drug laboratories were dismantled by NSW police.

In October 2022, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad established Strike Force Searle to investigate the supply and manufacture of methylamphetamine by members and associates of the Lone Wolf Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG).

Following extensive inquiries, strike force investigators executed two crime scene warrants at a warehouse in Marsden Park and a home in Penrith shortly before 6pm on Wednesday, March 1.

Strike force officers also executed a search warrant at a home on Hume Crescent, Werrington, where police located a large amount of equipment consistent with the manufacture of prohibited drugs.

Police also located 500 grams of crystalised methylamphetamine and a large amount of liquid, believed to be methylamphetamine oil.

Specialist officers from the Drug and Firearms Squad’s Chemical Operations Unit attended all three locations to process and dismantle the labs.

A 40-year-old man was arrested at the Werrington home and taken to Penrith Police Station.

He was then taken to Nepean Hospital for treatment for a pre-existing injury and was later charged with ‘Manufacture large commercial quantity prohibited drug.’

The man was formally refused bail at

Penrith Local Court on Thursday, March 2 and he is set to reappear on Thursday, April 27. Investigations under Strike Force Searle are ongoing.

Penrith: Emu Heights man to front court on drink driving charge

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

About 10.30pm on Wednesday, March 1, a 20-year-old man from Emu Heights was driving along Thornton Drive, Penrith when he drove up the gutter and onto the footpath, colliding with a concrete barrier.

A roadside breath test returned a positive result for alcohol.

The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station for a breath analysis.

The analysis returned a result of 0.149 grams of alcohol in 210 litres of breath.

The man’s licence was suspended, and he was issued with a field Court Attendance Notice to attend Penrith Local Court on Thursday, April 13.

Werrington: Police officer injured after man resists arrest

A man has been charged after he assaulted a police officer in Werrington.

About 11pm on Thursday, March 2, police attended a residence in Gibson Avenue, Werrington, in relation to a resident who had left hospital prior to being discharged.

Officers spoke to a 38-year-old man who was found to be in breach of an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order. Police attempted to arrest the man, but he resisted.

He was put into the caged police vehicle and kicked the door from the inside prior to it being closed, which struck a male Constable in the head, causing a small cut.

The 38-year-old was taken to hospital and after being released he was charged.

He was to appear at Penrith Local Court on Monday, March 6. The Constable was taken to hospital for treatment.

Werrington: Woman charged after sending barrage of emails

A Werrington woman has been charged with allegedly sending more than 32,000 emails over a 24-hour period to the office of a Federal MP.

The woman, 34, was arrested by the AFP at her home last week and appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday, where she was granted bail with strict conditions to reappear on April 11, 2023.

with Daniel McKinnon

EXPLAINER: DEMERIT POINTS IN NSW

One of the most common enquiries we get in our office is, “My licence is going to be suspended for accruing too many demerit points, can I appeal my suspension because I need my licence for work?”

The idea of an “work licence” is a myth. There are three ways to overcome a demerit points suspension as follows:

1. If you are a P plater you can appeal the suspension and put subjective material before the Court about your need for a licence. It will usually assist if you have completed a Traffic Offenders Course. Whilst requiring your licence for work is a relevant consideration, it is usually not enough on its own to convince a Magistrate that your suspension should be overturned or reduced, because almost every person who comes before the Court for traffic matters has some need for a licence connected to their employment. In some unique circumstances, for example if you are driving several family members to their place of employment, or operating a particular vehicle like a truck because you carry equipment or tools, the Court may take this into consideration. The Court can elect to allow your appeal and do away with your suspension altogether, or reduce the amount of time you are suspended for. This is only available to P platers and is not available to fully licenced drivers.

2. If you are a fully licenced driver it is available to you go on what is known as a “Good Behaviour Bond” for a period of one year. This Bond essentially grants you an additional demerit point, and gives you one last chance to demonstrate for a period of 12 months that you should be able to keep your licence. If however you commit any traffic offences during your one year good behaviour period you will receive the suspension for double the period of time of the original suspension. For example, if you were to serve a three month suspension for accruing too many demerit points and elected to go on a Good Behaviour Bond and then committed another traffic offence, you would have to serve a six month suspension. This is only available to fully licenced drivers, not P platers or L platers.

3. You can elect to have your matter determined by a Court and seek to have the particular offence that has resulted in the accrual of excessive demerit points dealt with by way of a Section 10 Conditional Release Order (CRO), meaning that the offence is proven but the Magistrate does not record a conviction for the offence, which may not result in you accruing the attached demerit points. Ordinarily you will need to convince a Court about why you should receive a CRO by demonstrating unique circumstances.

OFFICER IN COURT OVER FATAL CRASH

A police officer has been charged over a fatal crash at Llandilo last year in which a beloved bus driver was killed.

Justone Wong, 42, fronted Penrith Local Court on Friday, March 3, charged with ‘dangerous driving occasioning death’ and ‘negligent driving (occasioning death)’.

It is alleged that he was driving along Fifth Avenue in Llandilo, in May last year, when he was involved in a tragic collision causing the death of 76-year-old Andy Leonello.

According to documents tendered to the court, the accused was driving in a dangerous manner at the time of the impact.

So far no pleas have been entered.

Wong is due to reappear before the court on Friday, March 31.

The scene of the fatal crash last year.

Giving residents dignity and choice

EMILY FESZCZUK

Anational not-for-profit organisation is changing the way that young people with high physical support needs live with a state first project in Penrith.

Youngcare is two months off completing construction on its two three-bedroom Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) homes in Jordan Springs.

To prepare for the milestone, prospective residents visited last week to take part in the ‘My New Room’ initiative where they got to test paint options and choose a feature wall colour for their bedrooms, with assistance from family and support members.

Youngcare CEO Greg Johnson said the organisation’s mission is to provide people with more choice and control over their living situation by including them in the design stage of their SDA home.

“Youngcare is focused on creating change for these young people and their families, and one way we do that is by delivering beautiful SDA homes that exceed the minimum requirements for accessible housing by elevating design and technology aspects while making them age-appropriate by maximising location and lifestyle,” Johnson said.

“These aspirational SDA homes are Youngcare’s first foray into New South Wales, but certainly not our last, and we look forward to expanding our portfolio across Australia in the coming years.”

Built by Hudson Homes, six potential housemates will enjoy life in their two new homes

for as long as they like with assistance through their NDIS plans.

Head of Housing and Development at Youngcare Tim Lambert told the Weekender that it is a great feeling helping others live more independent lives.

“We have three residents here today that have been living together for 19 years and we have been working with them for close to 12 months to help assist them moving into one of the homes which is amazing,” Lambert said.

“It is a big decision for someone to choose a home and we are glad that we can engage with them early and move people from sometimes inappropriate accommodation to lovely homes where they have their own space to have visitors.”

Londonderry MP Prue Car praised the project and acknowledged the need for more support as Youngcare does not receive recurring funding from the government.

“This will be state-of-the-art homes for people who have really high needs disabilities and something that will set it apart is that they have their own space with private courtyard and bathrooms, so these young people can really feel at home in them,” Car said.

“I think there is definitely a need for governments, both State and Federal to think creatively to provide opportunities for organisations like Youngcare and look at ways that we can actually free up land for places like this.”

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh said she is pleased that the facilities will soon be available for locals.

“It was wonderful to see these homes come

entering the rail corridor and standing on the track.

to life today and hear about the people who will be shortly moving in. Jordan Springs is such a beautiful community, I’m sure everyone will be very welcoming,” McIntosh said.

“I thank Youngcare for bridging a gap in care by providing a much-needed service to our local community.”

Visit www.youngcare.com.au.

According to police, they obtained the details of the accused and conducted checks.

they formed the opinion the property was stolen or otherwise unlawfully obtained.

Aman has been re-sentenced after he pleaded guilty to breaching a Community Correction Order (CCO). James Conway, 35, fronted Penrith Local Court via video link on Friday, February 24, charged with ‘possess housebreaking implements’ and ‘goods in custody suspected of being stolen’.

It is alleged that police were called to St Marys Station after the accused was seen

Penrith Local Court heard that Conway began using illicit drugs after a relationship breakdown.

He was represented by a lawyer who told Magistrate Fiona Toose that his guilty plea is “a recognition that what he did was wrong”.

Police say they approached the accused, who was sitting at the end of platform four, and introduced themselves.

Conway allegedly told them that he jumped off the platform to retrieve hair bands.

They say they then searched Conway and a black backpack in his possession.

Within the backpack, police found two Jelly Tots, a Jaffa Cakes, a Tiny Teddy packet, a men’s watch, a women’s watch, four necklaces, five bracelets and a metal ring.

As they removed the items, the accused allegedly stated words similar to “yeah, I stole that”.

Police say they questioned Conway in relation to the property, but based on his response

Officers say that the items were seized, however they were unable to ascertain their total value.

Magistrate Toose told Conway it is important that he receives assistance following his release from custody.

“I'm pleased you’ve got somewhere to live with family that's supportive,” she said.

Conway was ordered to enter into two new 12 month CCO’s and accept supervision from Penrith Community Corrections.

Alyssa Bevan with potential resident Cindy Fitzsimons and Lisa Dalgleish.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

care to pets at mega vet

Locals can look forward to the latest medicine for their pets with a three-storey veterinary hospital slated for St Marys.

A $2,898,500 Development Application (DA) is currently being assessed by Penrith City Council for 49 King Street, St Marys.

The 753-square metre site is where St Marys Vet Hospital currently sits and the proposal is looking to expand the services it offers with demolition of the existing structures and construction of the new building.

“The proposed veterinary hospital will be open essentially 24 hours per day, seven days per week, noting that after-hours access will be via an emergency on-call service,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) said.

“A full range of services, including specialist services, will be available at the facility, such as referrals with clients sent by appointment from referring vets, dog and cat boarding/ grooming services, as well as providing general preventative health care including nutritional care, de-sexing and microchipping.”

The SEE also said that off-street parking will be provided for 12 cars with access off King Street.

Owner of St Marys Vet, Dr Behzad Benjamin Ajilian said that the practice strongly believe that St Marys and surrounding suburbs should have access to a local modern veterinary hospital and the latest treatment options for pets.

“We would like to create a modern and

nary medicine to the pet owners in our area,” Ajilian said.

“We understand how stressful it is to transport a pet to a larger hospital which are normally more close to the CBD.”

If approved, the vet will expand its services but will continue to offer a reasonable pricing

“We are planning to create a 24/7 hospital with a wide range of services in the future such as access to specialist services, advanced imaging, in house pathology, overnight monitoring and more,” Ajilian said.

And it won’t just be medical services on offer at the site.

“In our proposed plan, we also included a cafe for both clients and their pet,” Ajilian said.

“This cafe will be providing a varied range of food and snacks for both humans and their canine friends.”

The plan for construction will still allow the hospital to operate as normally as possible while work is underway, meaning existing customers will not be seriously impacted by the overhaul.

“The construction will start from the back of our land, and we’ll only lose some of our current building which mostly covers our extended kennel areas and laundry room, which will obviously limit our inpatient capacity but some extra cages in the main building will temporarily resolve this issue,” Ajilian said.

“Once the new building is finished the old building will be demolished to create more car parks for our clients to exclusively use.”

While it is subject to planning approval, the project is expected to be completed by the

EMILY

FESZCZUK

New stations to be built

Government celebrates ambulance

Potential sites are being scoped out for two new ambulance stations to be built near Glenmore Park and Badgerys Creek by the NSW Government.

The stations will be two of 30 new stations being built across the state as part of a $1.76 billion boost to ambulance services which was announced in the 2022-23 Budget, which will also deliver 2,128 more staff.

State Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said the projects will be delivered as part of the $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program.

“Having two new state-of-the-art ambulance stations is fantastic news for our community, ensuring everyone will have access to emergency care when and where they need it most – particularly as these communities continue to grow in the future,” Davies said.

“Made possible by the NSW Liberal Government’s investment in ambulance services, these two new stations will also bring more jobs to our local area and provide new and modern health facilities for our paramedics who are giving their utmost to serve our community.”

The stations will feature multipurpose spaces to support staff education, an office area for administration, staff amenities, logistics and storage spaces, along with vehicle

wash facilities and internal parking for the emergency ambulance vehicles.

The locations of Glenmore Park and Bringelly/Badgerys Creek were identified as areas of interest through modelling.

The next step is to identify potential sites with Health Infrastructure, NSW Ambulance and other key stakeholders involved in securing the best location.

but Labor says it’s not enough

land search and site acquisition process is further progressed.”

They will aim to cater to the growth of the area which will further increase with the future Western Sydney Airport that is currently under construction.

Consultation with Council and the community will be carried out as part of the planning process.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the government is investing in ambulance stations right across the state to ensure communities continue to receive emergency care when they need it.

“These new ambulance stations will provide our hardworking paramedics with first-class facilities as they assist communities in their time of need,” Hazzard said.

Labor Candidate for Badgerys Creek Garion Thain told the Weekender that he didn’t think the infrastructure announcement catered to the area’s needs.

“NSW Ambulance uses best-practice modelling software that maps out Triple Zero calls to determine the most suitable location for emergency care, ensuring that new stations are located to support the effective delivery of timely paramedic care to patients across the area,” Davies told the Weekender “Site locations and delivery timeframes of the new stations will be determined once the

“After 12 years, I don’t think the government’s announcement hits the mark of what we need for Badgerys Creek, which is growing rapidly whereas Labor will restore hundreds of hospital beds which the Liberals cut from western Sydney,” Thain said.

“That includes building a brand new hospital for Badgerys Creek, to support our growing area and take the pressure off of Nepean. “Ambulance stations are one thing, giving them somewhere to go is another.”

Brad Hazzard and Tanya Davies with NSW Ambulance staff.

Greens in the mix

Fringe party to field candidates in all three local seats

Some may label the Greens as obsessed with the environment or too radical, but the party wants voters to scratch beyond the surface to discover their core values ahead of the NSW Election.

The Greens candidates for the seats of Penrith, Londonderry and Badgerys Creek (formerly Mulgoa) sat down with the Weekender ahead of the March 25 vote.

Local resident and candidate for Londonderry, David Maurice is passionate about welfare as he grew up on it and of course the thing his party is known for, the environment.

“Londonderry has had floods left, right, and centre and climate change is exacerbating what these weather systems can do, and we don’t want to see another repeat this summer of people being airlifted out of homes in Werrington,” Maurice said.

“We need to look at continuing to use renewable energy and sustainable energy as we can’t

allow companies to dig up more coal and gas and whilst we can say we are mitigating things we are still putting more energy into this system than what we are taking out of the system, which is the problem.”

Enabling renters and people in apartments to have solar power and taking stress off the grid through alternative sources, such as geothermal energy or

battery storage, are also goals for the party.

Penrith candidate and mother of two, Minoo Toussi has lived in Penrith since immigrating to Australia in 2007. An activist for human rights, she is drawn to the policy platforms that revolve around social justice for all.

“A lot of people can’t afford health care with no private insurance, so we want to have

free medical and dental for all and set up public health clinics that can offer different services with bulk billing,” Toussi said. “A lot of people including First Nations people, immigrants and different cultures are suffering from mental health issues. Cost of living is expensive, there are issues with renting but if we push for more developers and big corporations to pay fair taxes then we would have the ability to provide more equal facilities for everyone.”

Tightening anti-discrimination laws, providing free education and addressing teacher and nurse shortages are key areas of focus for the party, which also wants to legalise cannabis use. Teaching chemistry at Western Sydney University, Badgerys Creek candidate Nick Best said the party can provide a balanced alternative if voters research their policies.

“We are different from the major parties because we think outside of the box but we are different from the other minors because we are not a single issue party,” Best said.

CRUCIAL CENTRES WANT MORE FUNDS

After providing support to the community through extreme weather events, COVID-19 and a cost of living crisis along with everyday services, the need for core funding for Neighbourhood and Community Centres (NCCs) has been highlighted ahead of the State Election.

Penrith Labor candidate Karen McKeown and Greens Member of the NSW Legislative Council Abigail Boyd attended a roundtable event at South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre to hear from the Local Community Services Association (LCSA), the NSW Council for Social Service (NCOSS) and Nepean Community and Neighbourhood Services (NCNS).

NCNS CEO Joy Impiombato expressed her frustration of having to beg for basic funding.

“We get some funding through the Targeted Early Intervention program through DCJ (Department of Communities and Justice) but it is for specific programs and not for extra paying wages, bills or being able to plan for the future,” Impiombato said.

“Neighbourhood Centres are the first service that agencies and communities turn to in difficult times, which should translate to the provision of the basic core funding that we need to keep the centres open.”

McKeown said she would campaign for more support if Labor wins the March 25 election.

“If we are elected I would advocate during that term of government to form a partnership between us and the associations and also see what we can do about the long term stuff,” McKeown said.

“I can’t promise you today that I can deliver if we do win government but what I can say is that you would have no bigger advocate than me with the on the ground stuff.”

– Emily Feszczuk

Greens candidates Nick Best, Minoo Toussi and David Maurice.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY FESZCZUK

Mary’s extraordinary life

103-year-old says she “still feels 80” as family and friends join special celebration

fond memories of the time, engaging in “men’s work” with women who became close friends.

“I did all sorts of farm work,” Snape said.

At 103-years-old, Mary Snape still recalls growing up in England, her first job in a tea shop when she was 14, and going caravanning and fossicking with her husband like it was yesterday.

Living at Boronia House in St Marys, she leads a normal day to day life, watching television, singing, visiting the Leagues Club once a month, and still remembers how to say the alphabet backwards.

But, in Italy, she is quite the celebrity.

Born in Greenwich, London in 1920, Snape joined the British Women’s Land Army during World War II when she was just 19. She has

“It was hard, but I used to like it. I was really friendly with all the girls.”

During the war, Snape also married her late husband, who their daughter Barbara Maclean later found out was a prisoner of war at Camp 65 Gravina in 1942-1943. Presently, no prisoner of war has been found alive to date, with Snape the only surviving wife.

The Camp, in Altamura, Italy, has never been built over, and is now being turned into a museum, with Snape a focal point.

“While I was doing all this research, I got an email from somebody who was from Camp 65,” Maclean said.

country. They celebrate Mum’s birthday, she’s been on the news over in Italy, and they decided that they were going to paint her

Maclean is excited to be visiting the artwork

Having lived through the war, in addition to a bout of bowel cancer at 89, and a fall just 18-months-ago, Maclean said it’s amazing how well her mum has been able to heal. But, Snape herself isn’t surprised.

“It’s been hard work!” Snape said.

“I’m always keeping myself mobile and walking a lot, I walked four miles every day

And Maclean agrees, having seen her Mum walking and able to touch her toes into her 90s. She’s also never smoked, drank, or had fast food – though she is partial to a chocolate bar hidden in her bedside

Snape celebrated her 103rd birthday on Monday, March 6, with a family celebration, consisting of many of her five children, 13 grandchildren, 28 grandchildren and two great great grand-

children, and a high tea at her nursing home with a twist, where attendees wore wigs in tribute to the guest of honour.

Still feeling like she’s only as old as 80, Snape assures she’s got “at least three more years” in her.

“I feel great,” she said.

“I’m still able to do anything. If I want to go somewhere, I get my pusher!”

Mary Snape was all smiles when reflecting on her extraordinary life.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

A photo of Mary Snape in her land army uniform in WWII at about 22-years-old, immortalised in a street art painting in Altamura, Italy.

Mary Snape at about 22-years-old.

Leonie Snape, Barbara Maclean, Mary Snape and Adrian Snape celebrating this week.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

2023 MAYORAL CHARITY BALL

You can help: $100 a day to keep a woman and child safe from DV

New figures from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) reveal there were 1,077 recorded instances of domestic violence in the Penrith Local Government Area in 2022 alone.

According to BOCSAR’s latest report, this is one of the highest figures in the state.

The data does not include the instances of domestic violence that went unreported during that time.

While both men and women are victims of domestic abuse, statistics show that on average, one woman a week is murdered by a current or former partner in Australia. This means there are vulnerable women in the Penrith community who require assistance; whether it’s someone to speak to for advice or somewhere to go to stay safe.

These alarming figures and her personal experiences led Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen to call for an inaugural Charity Ball to raise money for services on the ground.

Cr Hitchen is a retired Police Chief Inspector who has worked closely

with domestic violence victims, starting from her days as a Junior Detective at Penrith Police Station, when support services had not yet been established and before the rise of public awareness campaigns around the issue.

To be held in May at Panthers, the Mayoral Charity Ball will raise funds in support of a local charity.

Cr Hitchen’s chosen charity is The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter, which provides emergency shelter and support for local women and their children fleeing domestic and family violence. It was opened in 2018 by Women’s Community Shelters.

“The brilliant work of organisations like The Haven is literally saving and changing the lives of women and children in our community and I am truly grateful for their work,” Cr Hitchen said. “These charities need support from our businesses, investors, community groups and residents to help keep their doors open, to enable them to continue making a difference.”

All ticket sales for the Mayoral Charity Ball include a donation to the charity, and there will be other ways to fundraise in the lead up to the event and on the night. All funds raised will be donated to The Haven

following the event. Just $100 will keep a local woman and her child safe for the first 24 hours, while $700 can support a woman entirely in her first week at the shelter. To find out more about the

Mayoral Charity Ball – Penrith 2023, visit penrith.city/events.

*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT.

Kylie is King of the cards

World record attempt is serious business

reassess and pull out my bucket list,” King said.

taken out as there are no breaks,” she said.

Kylie King wanted to set a Guinness World Record but a challenge such as eating six hot dogs in one minute wasn’t really her style.

The hypnotherapist, mindset coach and Founder of the Penrith Blue Mountains Ladies in Business Community decided to put her networking skills to use and is hoping to collect as many business cards as she can in eight hours.

King will be attempting to set her record on Monday, March 13 between 12pm and 8pm at Café Upstairs at Suite 102, 64-68 Derby Street, Kingswood.

While setting a Guinness World Record was something she always wanted to tick off, the business owner said she was spurred on because of the pandemic.

“During lockdown I had a friend who got very sick and passed away from cancer that wanted to achieve things, but she kept putting them off so that period of COVID made me

“I started looking through records and thought I’m not going to smash 49 watermelons on my head or eat two litres of mayonnaise, and I do not have the patience to grow my hair out, so I tried to look for something I could do and use the network around me.”

After some searching King came across the most cards collected in 24 hours but thought it might be out of her reach.

“The record was done in 2013 by a UK man, which was 402 cards, but through applying for that Guinness reached out and said there was an eight hour one, which I thought was a good place to start,” she said.

“The target to beat is only 136 from a lady in India I believe, so I am going for 200, which is quite a manageable target.”

While 200 cards might seem like an easy task for a business owner, the process has strict regulations to be counted.

“It is a continuous clock for eight hours, so if I go to the bathroom or take time to eat, that gets

“I can’t just go and pick up cards but I have to have a brief conversation with each person to accept the card, so if I do 200 over eight hours, it breaks down to two minutes per interaction.”

King has to be videoed the whole time, have four independent witnesses working shifts and then send through all of the details and cards to Guinness World Records as evidence.

Anyone with a business card is encouraged to come down on Monday from lunchtime to be a part of some potential Penrith history.

“Café Upstairs is sponsoring the event and giving every participant a free small coffee, so if you have a card with your company name or if you have multiple businesses with different details, bring them down to have a quick chat with me,” King said.

“This is a fun, quirky thing to take part in and I hope people realise if they have a goal that they want to achieve to just go for it.”

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Welcome to the woke side

Re your editorial in the February 24 edition of the Western Weekender – words well-written! (Editor's Desk, Weekender February 24). Though you are firmly NOT succumbing to woke-ism, I’m so glad you are accepting that sometimes “you must adapt” and “our kids deserve a better approach”. I too am a Dahl fan and haven’t yet made up my mind on the matter of updating the language in his stories – but I appreciate your thoughts on the subject. Welcome to the woke side – it ain’t so bad, after all.

MELISSA MELLISH, CAMBRIDGE PARK

A note of thanks

Just a quick note of appreciation for the act of kindness and the above-and-beyond attitude with their level of service from the team at Blue Mountains Bus Co. On Monday, February 20, I left a bag, containing medicine (tablets), on the 5.15pm (691) bus from Penrith travelling to the Mountains. I received a call at 8.30am on Tuesday saying that they had the medicine at their Emu Heights Depot after the driver handed them in. Explaining that I didn’t have transport that day, Wilston (crew member) kindly delivered them to my office in Penrith. Outstanding service.

ROGER CHEESMAN, VIA EMAIL

High Street deserves better

I’m not a fan of the DA, as per your article, being approved (High Street goes up, Weekender March 3). The thing I love about Penrith is its retail building height (majority) not dominating the view of the beautiful Blue Mountains; when you are at the top

end of High Street and look west and see those beautiful mountains, the vista always makes me smile. If we want Penrith to be a cooler city, then more concrete should not be encouraged, especially in High Street, which still has that country charm of the inviting small town that we all love. Some improvements to High Street would be for the shop owners to bring the shop facades up to a certain standard. Some are so old and worn/tired looking – they are definitely not appealing to visit, and bring the rest of the street’s appearance down. This goes for some of the malls too – some look dark and unappealing to walk through, and some look like they’ve not been cleaned in years. Standards definitely need to be raised and the bar maintained. Additionally, there are so many shop entries that have such a high step to get into that it inhibits those utilising a wheelchair/walking aid, to enter the store.

NERREL LOADER, VIA EMAIL

Family dog makes predictions

You do have to smile at these sideline pundits that essentially put their finger in the air and then guess what might happen (Editor's Desk, Weekender March 3). No real analysis in the article, no understanding of how this year’s teams have trained and what they’ve shown in pre-season, no statistics to back up any of the commentary. I asked our pooch who he thought was going to make the top four and he decided that it was the Dogs, the Broncos, the Tigers, the Dolphins ... and that has as much credibility as the article above.

JOHN, VIA WEBSITE

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

Kylie King is going to attempt a Guinness World Record.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY FESZCZUK

Foot or leg pain is not normal in children

“Growing pains” is not a diagnosis. It is a generalised term to describe the pain. Any pain that lasts more than a few days, or that is severe enough to limit a child’s walking, should be assessed by a professional.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

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

Robert Street in Penrith is named after Robert Thurston who, at the time, owned ‘Lemongrove House’. He was a very distinguished citizen of Penrith.

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

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

Δ Relay returns: Penrith Relay for Life may look a little different this year, but it will be going ahead for 2023. Organised by passionate local volunteers, the event gives people the chance to join forces in support of everyone affected by cancer, have fun at a community festival, and raise vital funds towards Cancer Council’s worldclass research, prevention, advocacy and support services. The decision has been made to shorten the event from 24 to 12 hours, with the hope to build the event back up to what it once was prior to COVID-19. Registrations have now opened to take part on Saturday, May 23,

at Penrith Paceway from 9am to 9pm. To join the family fun, visit www.relayforlife.org.au/event/ penrith-2023.

Δ Raise up: The Raise Foundation, a youth mentor program, is in desperate need of new volunteers to provide early-intervention and evidence-based mentoring for vulnerable high school students from Cambridge Park High School. Supported by the Origin Energy Foundation, Penrith based adults who want to give back are encouraged to sign up to help make a difference in a young person’s life this year. Visit www.raise.org.au/volunteers/why-mentor-with-raise.

Δ Podcast focus: The new ‘Roadshow and Tell’ podcast that showcases unique and speciality museums has just dropped an episode featuring a local institution, the Penrith Museum of Printing. In the episode, you will hear the host Kate interview Museum President Bob Lockley, as well as tour the museum to learn about the history of printing and the relevance today. Listen to the podcast on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Podcasts.

Δ Celebrating Thornton: People of all backgrounds are being invited to a community celebration that is showcasing the best of the growing Thornton estate in Penrith on Saturday, March 11. Sponsored by Urban Property and organised by Thornton Community Group Inc, the event will take place at the Ron Mulock Oval from 2pm to 5pm. There will be live music, cultural performances, stalls, workshops, children’s activities and plenty of fun, so make sure to check it out.

Δ Tasty treat: Leading Popcorn brand Cobs Popcorn is expanding its core range in Australia by announcing its newest delicious sweet-treat,

Cobs DRIZZL’D®. Featuring Cobs’ deliciously crispy popcorn, the new DRIZZL’D® range celebrates the timeless love affair between popcorn and chocolate. This all new, light, sweet and salty taste combination adds mouth-watering real chocolate drizzled over the much-loved core Cobs Popcorn range.

Δ Got some source? Tell us about shop openings, new products and more. Email news@ westernweekender.com.au for inclusions.

THE DHARUG CONNECTION

A special weekly focus on local Indigenous affairs and services

Sara Hayek Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

www.nepeancommunity.org.au

Challenge

Bulbuwul Mob is a 10-week Health Challenge Program aimed at weight loss to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases which effect Indigenous community. Commencing this week, it will be the fifth time the program has run – and participants can achieve an incredible 10-20kg weight loss in 10 weeks. 60 Aboriginal community members meet up on three afternoons a week, as well as access to the gym at any time. It’s the fun group sessions that keep everyone motivated.

Heart disease, respiratory disease, cancer, diabetes and

can help close life expectancy gap

renal disease are the top five chronic disease areas that attack the community, taking 25 years off an Indigenous person’s lifespan.

Indigenous people are born with 25 years less lifespan due to generational trauma. Having one or more co morbidities results in early death rates. Bulbulwul’s program is about prevention and education on healthy lifestyle. We encourage Community to complete a 715 Check (Aboriginal Health Check) with their GP to identify any underlying chronic conditions. We help them connect to medical services and provide a nutri-

tion guide for eating well. The program’s success is due to social and cultural support, community leadership, and the high quality, evidence-based program. Past participants say that they enjoyed the increased health and vitality achieved through the weight loss and strengthening programs – individually tailored by a personal trainer and an Aboriginal Health practitioner. Weekly check-ins and tracking help everyone stay focused. Donations from the local community provide incentives for weekly prizes which is also a great motivation. This is community looking after

Helpful Contacts

community – to close the life expectancy gap, achieve individual and group goals; health and wellbeing and a sense of achievement.

Prize money from previous winners of Western Sydney Aboriginal Health Challenge have chosen to pay forward so another 60 participants can receive the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Thanks to our sponsors: Mumma’s Move & Fitness, Game Change Personal Training, Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services, NXT Set Health & Fitness, Maxx Tatts.

Maddison Williams honoured for dedication

Maddison Williams has been named Aboriginal Health Professional of the year at the NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards.

Williams recalls first feeling inspired to study social work after learning about Aboriginal people and culture at school.

“When I was in Year 12, I was doing the unit called society and culture, and in that unit we were focusing on inequality and difference in Aboriginal people,” she said.

“I had known that I was a Wiradjuri woman, so learning about Aboriginal people, I would come home, because I was raised by my mother and maternal grandmother who identify as Aboriginal, I loved learning about that at school and then coming home and hearing gran’s own experiences firsthand.”

She began working at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District seven years ago as part of the NSW Health Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship program, and transitioned into her dream job as the Senior Social Worker at the District’s Mudang Mudjin (Building Strong Foundations) and Wilingali (Aboriginal and Maternal Infant Health Service) services at Cranebrook Community Health Centre in 2021.

“I just love being around mob and being around the Aboriginal community,” she said.

“It’s what I wanted to do, just working with my people, feeling a connection with them, and I’m also able to work around other

really strong Aboriginal women in my team.”

After being named Aboriginal Health Professional of the year, Williams was filled with joy, and honoured to be recognised.

“It was so overwhelming and so exciting,” she said.

“I wasn’t expecting to be named as a finalist, let alone to get the award, so it was super exciting.”

Though she wants to continue working in her current team, Williams hopes to in the future work on writing more academic articles as her career progresses.

– Cassidy Pearce

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

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service 4729 7300 27-29 Lawson St, Penrith

Muru Mittigar 4730 0400 murumittigar.com.au

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

Aboriginal Home Care 1300 973 058 australianunity.com.au

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

Aboriginal Land Council (02) 9689 4444

Service NSW 13 77 88 service.nsw.gov.au

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

Maddison Williams.

In January 1960, Penrith City Council's electricity department became part of the Prospect County Council providing electricity to householders.

In March 1996, Prospect County Council merged with Illawarra Electricity to form Integral Energy.

This photo of the Prospect County Council building, located on the corner of Station and Henry Streets in the Penrith CBD, was taken in 1976.

A whitegoods retailer associated with Prospect, where regular classes would also take place, is located at the bottom of the building.

The building retains the same look today, with Pacific Smiles Dental occupying the lower retail precinct and offices in the main building.

VOTE 1

Mayor’s News

Mayor

The weekly views of Penrith’s

Getting recycling right

I’m really proud that Penrith is a leader in recycling right, and as the community continue to help us keep it all sorted, Council has a few tips to help.

Sometimes it can be a little overwhelming knowing what goes where, if you are feeling a bit confused it helps to refer to the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) on the back of many packaged items. You’ll find whether part of the packaging can be recycled or not. It’s important to remember that soft plastics, like bread bags, chip packets and bubble wrap, can’t be taken to Woolworths or Coles now, but you can still have these collected from your door for free via RecycleSmart Power Pickups.

Some of the items you can recycle include shampoo bottles, tins, butter tubs, and plastic takeaway containers.

To find more information on which items are acceptable, please visit penrith. city/3bins.

Drinking glasses, Pyrex, plate glass (windowpanes, glass tabletops, fish tanks, shower doors) and oven-proof glass can’t be recycled, because they melt at different temperatures from glass bottles and jars, which affects the composition of the glass, if they are melted together, imperfections are created in the structure of the glass, making it less stable.

However, there are still plenty of glass items that can be recycled and these are processed right here in Penrith! And once recycled it is being reused in new roads across the Penrith LGA.

Residents who need to increase their recycling bin capacity should remove the food and liquid from containers into the FOGO bin (don’t forget to give them a quick rinse in leftover dishwater), squeeze the air out of drink containers and break down and flatten cardboard boxes.

Please remember that plastic bags do not belong in the recycling bin as they can’t be recycled and get tangled at the sorting facility. Place items in loose; if they are bagged or in a box, they won’t be recycled.

Recyclingnearyou.com.au is a helpful resource for finding recyclers for tricky-to-recycle items.

Council offers many services for items that don’t belong in the recycling bin, please visit penrith.city/waste for more information.

To Recycle Right, just follow ‘Know it, Empty it, Rinse it and Sort it’, and you’ll be right!

See you next week.

CR TRICIA HITCHEN Mayor of Penrith

Vanessa Blazi for Penrith

I am passionate about helping people and their pets through this economic crisis, and protecting urban green spaces and local bushland such as the Cumberland Plain Woodlands.

I will:

Vanessa Blazi for Penrith

• Protect renters’ right to have pets and allow pets on public transport – these are real issues during this cost-of-living crisis

I am passionate about helping people and their pets through this economic crisis, and protecting urban green spaces and local bushland such as the Cumberland Plain Woodlands.

I will:

• Bring in Veticare – like Medicare for animals. Being on a low income shouldn’t mean your companion animal suffers.

• Protect renters’ right to have pets and allow pets on public transport – these are real issues during this cost-of-living crisis

• Strengthen controls over illegal fireworks – protect our urban wildlife and companion animals from unnecessary terror and injury.

• Bring in Veticare – like Medicare for animals. Being on a low income shouldn’t mean your companion animal suffers.

Strengthen controls over illegal fireworks – protect our urban wildlife and companion animals from unnecessary terror and injury.

ANIMALS CAN’T AFFORD YOU TO PUT US #2 GIVE ANIMALS YOUR #1

SPOT

Make your vote count. With preferential voting, a #1 Vote for the Animal Justice Party is a powerful message that you care about animals and the environment. If we don’t win, your vote goes to your 2nd preference at full value.

ANIMALS CAN’T AFFORD YOU TO PUT US #2 GIVE ANIMALS YOUR #1 SPOT

Make your vote count. With preferential voting, a #1 Vote for the Animal Justice Party is a powerful message that you care about animals and the environment. If we don’t win, your vote goes to your 2nd preference at full value.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Council)

Most of us want to age comfortably and independently at home, right?

But you may have a few concerns about your safety, mobility and health needs as you start to get a little older?

You sometimes think you could use a little bit more help and support around the house?

At Your Side, if you are over 65 the answer to a lot of these questions is “YES”. Because there is a waiting list of six to 12 months for Home Care Packages in Australia it’s important that you start planning for services and supports early.

You might feel 100 per cent healthy and able to take care of yourself now but what about in a couple of years, or when something unexpected happens? Your Side encourage everyone to be brave and start planning now.

The first step to receiving a Home Care Package is to register with My Aged Care. You can call 1800 200 422 or go to www.myagedcare. gov.au to start the process. Once that happens, it can take from six to 12 weeks to review your needs. If it’s an emergency, it can happen within a week.

Planning early through My Aged Care to receive Home Care Package support means that you can stay healthier, active and social for longer living at home. Your Side has a wide range of services available to support you once you have gone through the assessment process. Their choice of providers and options gives you flexibility to get the very best match of services to meet your goals. You might

choose meals, cleaning, or personal care, in a mix that works for you. You might prefer to make changes to your home to make moving around safer or prevent falls.

They also encourage clients to consider social support, because there is good evidence that people who access regular social support delay entering residential care and remain independent.

“Your Side has helped me so much. I have

more time to myself to pursue my hobbies, work with my charities and do the online cooking classes with the social group,” 91-year-old Ron said.

Home Care Packages with Your Side will give you:

– More hours of home-based care.

– Tailored services such as cleaning, gardening, personal care, transport, respite, social support and mobility aids to suit you.

–

– Expert advice and guidance from a dedicated Care Manager.

– Regular home visits and reviews to make sure your care needs are met.

Help to manage workers, so they meet your needs.

So, if you live in Sydney give the friendly, experienced and dedicated Home Care Package team at Your Side a call today on 1300 134 332 or email hcpreferrals@yourside.org.au.

BUSINESS

WITH GRAHAM FITZPATRICK WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

Is it time to give your business an all-important health check-up?

We are all familiar with the concept of spending time working on the business compared to working in the business. The questions that normally follows this way of thinking is where do I start and how do I find the time?

The answer can come in the form of a Business Health Check that is available through the Business Connect program. This simple questionnaire allows you to actually take time out and think about your business as a whole.

The first thing a Business Health Check looks at is your Business Direction. Can you clearly describe what business you are in and do you have a simple, written business plan are just two questions this section asks.

The next thing that a Business Health Check looks at is your customers and your competitors. You need to know who your main competitors are and why your customers choose your business over your opposition.

The next thing the questions address is profitability and your financial controls like budgets, profit, targets and tax payments. This section also asks if you know where you make your money? Or do you know what your Gross Profit, Net Profit and Break-Even Point are for each product or service?

The Business Health then looks at your Staff and your Business Culture and addresses things like ensuring your staff have the right skill set for the business. As well as asking

if you have position descriptions for each role and is there policies and procedures in place. The last set of questions address future needs and business risk which is something that we don’t always get time to think about.

On completion of the Health Check, you will get a full diagnostic report that provides useful insights to support you to prioritise the next steps for your business. The Business Health Check is designed to identify opportunities and potential challenges.

So stop working in the business and spend some time working on the business with a Business Connect Health Check through the Western Sydney Business Centre.

Millionaire Mindset For Women in Business

U p l e v e l y o u r b u s i n e s s g a m e

T h i s 9 w e e k , f a c e - t o - f a c e , P e n r i t h - b a s e d p r o g r a m w i l l

h a v e y o u e a r n i n g m o r e m o n e y , b o o s t i n g y o u r

c o n f i d e n c e , r e l e a s i n g y o u r f e a r s a n d c o n n e c t i n g w i t h

o t h e r p o w e r h o u s e w o m e n !

h r i s s e t s a r e a l l y s t r o n g m i n d s e t f o u n d a t i o n f o r m e T h i s a l l o w s m e t o e n j o y l i t e r a l l y e v e r y s i n g l e a s p e c t o f m y l i f e s o m u c h m o r e A l i g n i n g m y b u s i n e s s w i t h t h e w a y I w a n t t o l i v e m y l i f e , l e a r n i n g t o c h a l l e n g e m y l i m i t i n g b e l i e f s a n d f i n d i n g c o u r a g e t o m a k e b i g , b o l d d e c i s i o n s T h i s i s o f f i c i a l l y m y f a v o u r i t e 2 h o u r s o f t h e w e e k

Chantal Bronkhorst (Katberg Digital)

martin the menace

HOW FORWARD LIAM MARTIN IS EMBRACING HIS LARRIKIN REPUTATION AT THE PENRITH PANTHERS SEE PAGE 34

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THE FOODARY

WERRINGTON NEWSAGENCY

the final word v

There is no doubt not all went to plan for Penrith against Brisbane last weekend, and the unusual feeling of losing at home remains hard to shake nearly a week later. But hitting the panic button would be foolish, given we know what this team is capable of. Even more foolish when you consider a 50/50 call going the other way or Nathan Cleary landing that two-point field goal would have changed the result and conversation entirely.

Penrith get the opportunity to bounce back in prime time as they kick-off Round 2 of the NRL against a South Sydney side they have dominated for the past few seasons.

Whether it was the 2021 Grand Final, the Preliminary Final last year or in 2020, or the key regular season games that have gone Penrith's

way, the Rabbitohs have really struggled to contain Ivan Cleary's side for some time. In fact, the Panthers have won nine of their last 10 encounters.

Souths would consider themselves a solid chance of knocking off Penrith here, especially in the wake of their generally impressive 27-18 season opening win against Cronulla last Saturday night. And if Lachlan Ilias plays as well as he did against Cronulla, there's no question we'll have one hell of a game on our hands on Thursday.

But as good as Souths were, and as much as Penrith clearly have plenty to work on, back-toback losses at home in this current Penrith era are exceptionally rare. In fact, you have to go back to 2019 to find the last time it happened.

For Penrith, victory here will simply be about brushing off the cobwebs that are clearly still hanging around after their limited pre-season. I mentioned last week that Premiers can often have difficult starts to new seasons and while Penrith overcame that in 2021-22, perhaps it'll be a little tougher this year.

All the elements were still there last weekend. Brian To'o's post-contact metres were sensational, Nathan Cleary's line engagement was strong and Dylan Edwards ran more than anyone in the entire competition last weekend.

The reality is Brisbane came fired up, ready to play and with a point to prove. It was one of the best victories the club has had under Kevin Walters and Penrith often had little answer to their relentless defence.

The question marks over Mitch Kenny at hooker remain, but that's not to suggest Soni Luke should automatically get more minutes. Kenny wasn't the reason Penrith lost last weekend. He made 53 tackles and was solid in the middle; and let's not forget he started some pretty big games for the Panthers at the back end of last season. Luke came into the game at the right time, but whether he’s used earlier in the weeks ahead is very much a ‘wait and see’ proposition.

I’m expecting a strong forward showing from Souths here, but the Panthers should be able to wear them down. They come into the contest fitter, more experienced in big games and with plenty of fire in the belly.

Tip: Panthers by 12.

Moses Leota charges at the Brisbane defence.

Photo: NRL Images.

nrl ladder & fixtures

ROUND 2

face in the crowd

IS THIS YOU?

Is

PRODUCED

WRITERS

here ’ s cheers

NAME:

Seasons

Favourite Panthers player? James Fisher-Harris.

Must-follow social media account?

@mesciatwinsoffical.

What do you love about being a

Pantherette? I love everything about being a Pantherette, the girls, the dancing, the atmosphere, the field and the Panthers fans.

Go-to pump up song? ‘Pump It Up’, Endor.

If you were stranded on a desert island, who are you bringing with you and why?

My dog Molly because I honestly don’t think I could live without her.

panther rumblings

NO BAD BLOOD BETWEEN MATES

! Nothing in heated exchange: The much-publicised ‘conversation’ between Jarome Luai and Jaeman Salmon after fulltime last Friday night was not the first time the pair clashed. Eagle-eyed supporters at the ground spotted the duo having words after Adam Reynolds kicked a field goal to put the Broncos 13-6 up. Regardless, everyone around the club is very keen to play this down – and it appears it’s legitimate to say it was simply a disagreement that all colleagues in such an environment would have from time to time. It’s nothing to be overly concerned about. Luai and Salmon have always gotten on well – and were mucking around at training together on Tuesday.

! Panthers go Shark hunting: I’m told Penrith are interested in a Cronulla forward to bolster their squad for 2024. Watch this space.

! Negotiation challenge: One of the more complex situations when it comes to negotiating new deals at Penrith is that a number of players involve not only their parents, but their church. It makes the ins and outs of various deals a little more complicated – and there’s at least one player whose father was way too involved in contract negotiations for the club’s liking.

! Spotted: Former Panthers ground announcer Scott McRae (pictured below) at his new gig with the Manly Sea Eagles.

week. “Trent [Robinson] is a really good coach and the Roosters have been the pinnacle of the NRL for a number of years,” he told the Herald “There was an opportunity there for me and he explained what he sees in me and how I can impact that team.” The “pinnacle of the NRL” comment hasn’t gone down well with Penrith fans and some officials. After all, Leniu is currently at a club that has won the last two Premierships, played in three straight Grand Finals and has an extraordinary win percentage. If that’s not pinnacle, I’m not sure what is. It’s odd praise for a team that remains a strong competitor and opposition for the next six months. No matter how he explains it, it’s a bizarre comment to make.

back to full transparency in future weeks, with the full press conference available to view live and afterwards.

! Spotted: Another former ground announcer, Zac Bailey, a little closer to home –standing in the media box last Friday night at BlueBet Stadium.

! Leniu’s bizarre words: There is no doubt that an interview outgoing Panthers forward Spencer Leniu undertook with the Sydney Morning Herald raised some eyebrows this

! Transparency, please: The NRL usually live streams Head of Football Graham Annesley’s Monday press conference in full (pictured top right), so fans can get insight into any controversial decisions made over the weekend, as well as revealing statistics and other interesting information. On Monday, it only posted select videos from Annesley’s briefing – a two minute boast about weekend stats, and then a couple of HIA explainers. Let’s hope we get

! Penrith sets new TV record: Last week’s NRL game between Penrith and Brisbane was the highest rating Friday night match of alltime on Fox Sports. 313,000 people watched the game through Foxtel but when streaming and Kayo figures are added, a total viewership of 552,000 was recorded. Never before has a subscription game in the regular season rated that highly.

! Spotted: This passionate Panthers fan in a unique, and dare I say failed, attempt at staying dry last Friday night.

! Ciraldo hunted by Bennett: It turns out super coach Wayne Bennett tried to lure Panthers assistant coach Cameron Ciraldo to the Dolphins for their inaugural season this year. In the new Stan documentary ‘Dawn of the Dolphins’, Bennett reveals he called Ciraldo about joining the club as an assistant, with the path to eventually taking over as head coach. In the end, Ciraldo took on the job with Canterbury.

! Must-have for collectors: Trading cards might not be as big as they were in the 1990s, but die-hard footy fans can still get their hands on the collector’s items this season. 2023 footy cards are out now, and they include a range of special sets. A full box costs about $180.

Jarome Luai and Jaeman Salmon embrace after last year’s Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

MEET THE REAL LIAM MARTIN

was famously known as ‘Iceman’ and Moses Leota appropriately named ‘Tank’, Martin’s call sign was rather humorous… ‘Rash’.

If you’ve seen the brilliant new Panthers documentary ‘All The Way’ on 9Now, you got an incredible behind the scenes insight into Penrith’s historic premiership defence, but viewers also got to witness the stars of the team from a very different angle. With cameras in their face and some hidden away, players were captured going about their business as they prepared for the biggest matches of their lives.

While some players got more air time than others, Panthers and Kangaroos forward Liam Martin was featured quite heavily because of his larrikin ways.

Unless you’re in the Panthers inner sanctum, not many people knew the country kid from Temora was such a character – a laugh a minute type guy when he’s not pummelling people into the ground on the footy field.

The 26-year-old explained to Extra Time just where that particular name came from.

“My ‘Top Gun’ name was ‘Rash’, thanks to Cirro,” Martin said.

“I pester everyone, but especially Cirro. I used to not leave him alone. I think I shook his hand 10 times a day because he was a massive germaphobe. I always went out of my way to seek him out.”

Earlier this week, Martin was also the subject of new Fox League interview series ‘Face to Face’ with reporter Jake Duke.

The 30-minute special delved into the life of the popular Penrith forward and it was very well received by fans.

Martin said it’s important for the public to get to know players away from footy and in a more relaxed setting.

“My Mum called me after it aired and she just said how much she loved it and she was full on crying over it,” Martin revealed.

“I haven’t watched it but I’m sure they did a good job with it.”

Debuting in 2019 on a chilly evening in Bathurst, Martin is expected to play his 100th NRL game for the Panthers during the midway point of the season.

After representing New South Wales on six occasions and enjoying a starring role in Australia’s World Cup victory in England late last year, Martin is well and truly in the ‘sweet spot’ of his career.

Just last month he re-signed with Penrith until the end of 2024, proving his loyalty to the club while others have opted to leave.

Martin hopes he can remain a Panther for the remainder of his career, as he pushes for his best season yet in 2023; and potentially a further contract extension.

“It was great to be able to re-sign for one more year,” he said.

“I want to stay here for as long as possible and to get that one-year extension was great and hopefully I can go back in and start re-negotiating a bit longer as well.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Liam Martin training with the NSW Blues.

Panthers forward Liam Martin will play game 100 during the 2023 season. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Nathan Taylor chatting with Liam Martin.

EDWARDS IS RIGHT AT HOME AT PANTHERS

the nature of professional sport.

“It’s pretty cliché but honestly, it is what it is,” he said bluntly.

As far as Penrith players of the current era goes, there’s not too many more loyal than Clive Churchill Medal-winning fullback Dylan Edwards. While some of his teammates are choosing to move on for more money or opportunity, the 27-year-old has remained solid and committed to the club that awarded him his NRL debut as a skinny winger back in 2016.

As he enters his eighth season in the top grade, Edwards is well aware what the price of success looks like.

As teams, like the Panthers, win multiple premierships, the players (and sometimes coaches) that make up those teams become hot property.

In the past six weeks, Edwards has heard two of his teammates – Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu – deliver the news that they’ll be departing at the conclusion of 2023.

Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, Edwards said while it’s sad to see those players depart, he understands that’s

“Credit to them for securing nice contracts for their family, but it’s just the price of success.

“The club’s value goes up as you succeed, and other clubs want to get their hands on you – not so much me – but it’s definitely sad to see them go.”

Crichton will link up with some former Panthers at the Bulldogs in 2024, while fellow local junior Leniu has agreed to terms with the Sydney Roosters for next year and beyond.

Edwards said it hurts to see teammates, that he’s enjoyed so many good times with, leave for new colours.

“You build a bond with them over how many years you’ve trained and played with them, but you just hope they do really well wherever they go,” he said.

“I’m not sure how they think when they make their decisions for leaving, but I’m sure they wouldn’t go to a club they didn’t think they could have success at.

“A lot of them have young families or we have grown up together, so it’s definitely sad to see people leave.”

Following his best season of his career last year, Edwards played his first game last Friday night since last October’s Grand Final victory over Parramatta.

After a niggling hamstring injury cost him the opportunity to play in the World Club Challenge last month, Edwards said it was good to return to the paddock after an off-season of celebrating, relaxing and even proposing to his long-time partner, Nadine.

“I’ve been with Nadine since I was playing in the Under 20s and we have a couple of kids together, so the proposal was well overdue,” he admitted.

“Nadine was wrapped with it! I just proposed up on the Central Coast, up at Magenta there on the beach.”

Edwards is expecting to tie the knot at the end of the year.

Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards on Tuesday.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

POSITION: FULLBACK | NRL DEBUT: V SHARKS, JULY 2016

WEIGHT: 94KG |

HEIGHT: 183CM |

DOB: 10/01/96 |

You could see the difference straight away.

The Broncos defence that was once moving up quickly and getting into the face of the Panthers during last Friday’s match, all-of-a sudden were running backwards and not getting their defensive line set as quickly. It was the 54th minute and the man causing all this chaos was 27-year-old Soni Luke.

By darting from dummy half and finding space up the middle, Brisbane were for the first time in

the game, back-peddling. However it wasn’t just Luke’s running game which had the Broncos bamboozled, some slick, sharp passing to his attacking playmakers was beginning to have an effect on the opposition as well.

Then when Luke barged over to score a try beside the posts with four minutes left in the match, the Panthers were back and Soni Luke… had finally arrived.

Actually that statement is not completely fair.

In rugby league there’s no such thing as an overnight sensation. It’s just that we don’t always know the back-story of every player’s journey to first grade.

Luke’s journey began in the lower grades at the St Marys Saints before he became a part of and eventually co-captained the Panthers Premiership-winning NYC side in 2015.

Everyone was taking notice of Luke back then as he was also in the same side as his now illustrious teammates James Fisher-Harris, Jarome Luai and Dylan Edwards.

Now while they might’ve made their first-grade debuts years ahead of him, Luke unfortunately picked up some serious injuries, which severely stunted his development.

First a shoulder reconstruction on his right arm was followed by a torn left pectoral muscle soon after in 2020.

Nobody would have blamed him if he had walked away from the game there and then. Fortunately, Luke doesn’t know the meaning of the words ‘giving up’.

He did his rehab, kept plugging away and on Sunday, April 24 2022, against the Raiders at BlueBet Stadium, the 26-year-old finally made his first grade debut.

I remember the crowd gave a loud cheer that day when Luke ran on. They knew that someone special had just taken the field.

There’s an anonymous sports quote which best sums up Soni Luke’s incredible journey over the last 10 years.

“Remember the guy that gave up? Neither does anyone else.”

That’s why every player and coach in the NRL

BREKKY BREKKY BREKKY WITH WITH WITH WAYNE WAYNE WAYNE

analysis www.my88.com.au

AFTERNOONS AFTERNOONS AFTERNOONS WITH WITH WITH MADELEINE MADELEINE MADELEINE WW48139 WW48139

Panthers hooker Soni Luke made an impact last week. Photo: NRL Images.

with Peter Lang

BIG ISSUE IS A HEAD-SCRATCHER

In an ever-evolving world, not everything or everybody will evolve at the same pace.

Evidence of that in the rugby league world came at us thick and fast over the course of the first weekend of competition, almost all of it from the usual suspects.

The topic that got them riled up was the NRL’s independent doctor advising various clubs that one of their players needed to be removed from the field for a Head Injury Assessment.

warren smith

Those making the loudest noises in opposition to this process think that decisions to remove players from the field in the instance of a possible concussion should be left solely in the hands of teams and their staff.

You only have to watch a player pass an on-field concussion assessment, then minutes later be removed from the field for a fullblown HIA on the advice of the club doctor, to know that the 17 clubs need as much help as they can get when it comes to looking after the health of their players.

They should want it, if not demand it.

There’s more than a few people in positions of responsibility, however, who don’t like outsiders, no matter what expertise they bring to the table, interfering with the game they’ve played and

worked in for their entire adult lives. They see it as their game, and if you don’t like how it’s played that’s your problem, not theirs.

It’s not a phenomenon exclusive to rugby league, either.

Back in 2015, the head coach of Michigan University’s college football program, Jim Harbaugh, espoused the idea that football was the “last bastion of hope for toughness in America in men”.

Jim would have joined the chorus of protest that rung out over the NRL landscape over the weekend and he’d have been welcomed as a soul-brother.

The coaches and football department heads who are resistant to the concept of having an independent doctor adding another pair of eyes to the process of ensuring that players are cared for in the best way possible would say, like Jim

Harbaugh, that the fabric of the game and the toughness of the players participating in it is being changed in a way that diminishes the product.

The same noises were made when the NRL banned the shoulder charge.

The argument went that the shoulder charge should stay, and that players should only be suspended if they made contact with the head of an opponent, completely ignoring the fact that the more shoulder charges you have the more likely you are to have a life-changing incident as a result.

Lose the physicality, you’ll lose the fans was the cry.

The ball-carriers hit by Jake Trbojevic, Felise Kaufusi and company in Round 1 could tell you a different story.

So could the fans who watched the broadcasts of the games last weekend in record numbers on Fox Sports.

They haven’t been lost to the game after the removal of the shoulder charge, and they won’t be lost because a star player – who may or may not have a history of previous concussions – is removed from the field to be checked in what may ultimately be nothing more than a case of erring on the side of caution.

hidden panther WHO AM I ?

The NRL’s HIA rules are again in question. Photo: NRL Images.

PANTHERS CLAIM KEY VICTORIES

The Penrith Panthers have kicked off their Knock-On Effect NSW Cup premiership defence with an 18-12 victory over the North Sydney Bears at BlueBet Stadium last Friday evening.

It was a tight opening quarter of the match, but it was the visitors who eventually opened the scoring when they found space down Penrith’s right edge.

Two quick runaway tries to Tyrone Peachey and Isaiah Iongi gave the Panthers a 12-6 lead at half-time.

They scored again six minutes after the resumption when a huge hole opened in the defensive line, allowing new recruit Jack Cogger to stroll through and extend the lead to 18-6.

lower grades report

There were some nervous moments for the Panthers in the dying minutes when Zach Dockar-Clay scored under the posts, however Penrith’s defence held on to the six-point lead until full-time.

In Jersey Flegg, the Panthers kicked off their premiership defence with a thrilling comeback win over the Melbourne Storm on Saturday.

The Panthers got off to a strong start, scoring in the 8th minute through Cody Lawson.

Two quick tries for the Storm saw them take a 10-4 lead by the 22nd minute, before Aston Warwick crossed shortly after to reduce the deficit to two.

A penalty for dissent cost the Panthers possession immediately after the try and they were made to pay straight away by Matthew Hill.

Penrith were reduced to 12 shortly before half-time when Warwick was sin binned for his role in a fracas. The Storm capitalised by scoring through Sua Fa’alogo, moving to 22-8 at halftime.

Back-to-back tries for the Panthers through Blake Moore and Liam Ison cut the deficit back to two with 14 minutes to play.

A Storm error gave the Panthers perfect field position with six minutes left, with a penalty from the scrum allowing Ryley Smith to draw level at 22-all.

Another Storm error inside the final four minutes gifted Warwick an opportunity to score the match-winner, taking the result 28-22. Both sides take on South Sydney at BlueBet Stadium in Round 2, with NSW Cup prior to first grade on Thursday, and Jersey Flegg on Saturday.

Mavrik Geyer against the Bears in Round 1 of the NSW Cup.

Photo: NRL Images.

DRINK WEST SHUTTLE BUS TO EVERY PANTHERS HOME GAME WW50685

ENTERTAINMENT

MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND MORE – PENRITH’S LEADING ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

TO THE JOAN

the show, ‘Literally Dying’, may not come as a surprise.

aving clocked up almost a million followers across his social media platforms, 21-year-old Blake Pavey is no stranger to the spotlight. But, in wanting to avoid being labelled a ‘TikTokker’ for the rest of his life, he set his sights on the city.

“I started on TikTok when I was in Year 11, so then after I moved to Melbourne from the country, I thought I better try and do

It was there that Pavey met fellow comedian Luke Kidgell, who similarly got his start on TikTok. Having opened for Kidgell last year on his tour, Pavey assures that his success so far has nothing to do with his talent – just a bit of luck.

“I always knew that I wanted to do standup after doing TikTok, but the scale it’s gotten to now has been really surprising. The response has been absolutely insane so far,” he said.

“I guess I got pretty lucky to meet Luke and all that, and they helped me get started, and then took me on the road for his tour. It’s been a pretty quick shortcut into getting into my own tour.”

Many would know Pavey from his content surrounding his diagnosis with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) – a life-threatening disorder that primarily damages the lungs and digestive system. It’s for this reason that the name of

“A lot of my stuff in the show this year is about CF and all my health issues, which I think is a little bit different to what people might have seen in the past, compared to especially Internet dudes who have done stand-up shows in the past,” he said.

“Even after my shows with Luke, people were really connected to the stuff about CF, so I think that’s been the major draw card so far.”

Pavey assures that the show will be more than an hour-long sob story, taking on the topic of how he’s used humour to cope with the tough stuff, and introducing himself properly to an audience who may have only ever seen him through a screen.

“I’m excited to do the show and introduce myself in a whole new light,” he said.

“I think it’ll give people a better idea of the fact that I’m more than just that TikTok comedian, which is something that I’m really excited about.”

Having just kicked off his tour in Ballarat, Pavey will be heading back to The Joan on Tuesday, March 28, after opening for Kidgell there last year. Despite his aim to become known outside of TikTok, Pavey is hoping the show will help him come back to his roots.

“Penrith was great [last time], I got one of my first viral stand-up clips out of Penrith, so hopefully they can do the same again when I come back,” he said.

Blake Pavey’s ‘Literally Dying’ will be on at The Joan in Penrith on Tuesday, March 28 at 6.30pm. Tickets are $40. For more information or to book, visit thejoan.com. au.

THINGS TO DO

Collectors unite in Penrith this Sunday

Collector Con is heading back to Penrith this Sunday, March 12. With Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre set to be filled to the brim with 350 tables of toy, hobby and pop culture goodness, there’s sure to be something for everyone! Think action figures, trading cards, model cars, Funko POPS, comics and more! For more information, visit collectorcon.com.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood.

Morning tea every Friday morning.

Penrith Markets

Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce Regular events.

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Sunset Station Singers

Mondays 7pm, St Marys RSL.

Rhonda 0408 218 965.

The Sunset Station Singers entertain residents mainly in nursing homes. The song list is over 130 songs, ranging from their old time favourites to more current songs.

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

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

Laughs galore at The Joan

Comedy Club @ The Joan is returning for their monthly show on Friday, March 17. This month’s show will be headlined by comedy heavyweight Gary Eck – known for his work on ‘Happy Feet Two’, ‘Spicks and Specks’, ‘The Footy Show’, ‘The Nation’ and The Comedy Channel – who will be joined by Fady Kassab and Joe Comino. For more information, visit thejoan.com.au.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Penrith Lions Club

Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546. For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit the Lions on Facebook.

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

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

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0402 699 611.

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

Penrith NASHO’s monthly meeting

Penrith RSL Club. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

Will you track down a ghost?

Winbourne is a beautiful historic holiday resort consisting of a former ballroom, stables, accommodation and more. But the best part is, they come with ghost stories. Next Friday, March 17, learn about the property’s rich history and be in the very first group to ever conduct a paranormal investigate at Winbourne. For more information, visit ghostterritory.com.

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

Nepean Food Services

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

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42

Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

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

Arms of Australia Inn

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

Nepean Puffers & Wheezers 1800 654 301.

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

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

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

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

Head to St Finbar’s Church Hall on Saturday, March 25, for a fun night raising money for a good cause.

A variety concert is being held to support Bush School Cambodia – a not-for-profit project established by a Glenbrook family in 2010, which provides education and nutrition to children living near the famous Angkor temples in Siem Reap.

The variety concert is a project of Winmalee Lions Club, with original founder and member of Lions, Doug Frewer, making regular visits to the school over a number of years.

The concert will feature incredible musical acts by local performers, including the polished Moo Choir, a sneak peek of the Blue Mountains Musical Society’s ‘School of Rock’, and harpist Maryanne Tucker with singer and instrumentalist Ron Lyons. The night will also include an excellent supper, and the drawing of raffle prizes.

All funds raised will be going directly to the operation of Bush School.

The concert will be on at St Finbar’s Church Hall in Glenbrook on Saturday, March 25 at 7pm. Tickets are $30 per person, $50 for a family, with some concessions available. For more information or to book, visit bushschoolcambodia.com or call Doug on 0403 303 943.

CASSIDY PEARCE

NEW GEMS AND ALL THE HITS

‘80S ICONS BACK ON STAGE IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

After being postponed last year, Emmy winning and multi Grammy nominated artist Toni Childs has announced her return to The Joan later this month.

‘The Toni Childs Retrospective’ is a special two-hour performance, which celebrates both the old and the new when it comes to her musical works. The show will see Childs perform hits and fan favourites from ‘Union’, ‘House of Hope’, ‘The Woman’s Boat’ and ‘Keep the Faith’, before introducing songs from her new albums, ‘It’s All a Beautiful Noise’ and ‘Citizens of the Planet’. The latter two albums will be part of a

very special sea change for Childs in the next few years, being part of two unique 3D Mapping animated shows – two hours of music, animation and high tech audience engagement.

Childs will also be offering a once in a lifetime experience in the Exclusive VIP Meet and Greet Package, which will see 15 lucky audience members receive one concert ticket in the first row, a digital copy of Toni Childs ‘Greatest Hits’ two CD set plus a drink backstage before the concert with Childs, at a special ticket price of $175.

‘The Toni Childs Retrospective’ will be on at The Joan in Penrith on Saturday, March 18 at 7.30pm. Tickets start at $68. For more information or to book, visit www.thejoan. com.au.

Formed in 1982, Pseudo Echo have long been one of Australia’s most iconic new wave bands. Now, after a threeyear hiatus, they’re returning to the stage, bringing their epic national tour to Blue Mountains Theatre.

Despite being best known for their cover of ‘Funky Town’, Pseudo Echo pioneered the ‘80s with their avant-garde look and electro sound, introducing audiences to a new sound in an era of pub rock and making history as the first unrecorded band to appear on ABC’s ‘Countdown’.

The Ultimate Tour will see some of their greatest hits, such as classics from ‘Autumnal

Park’ and ‘Love An Adventure’, and feature tracks from the controversial, yet much loved stadium rock ‘Race’ album, performed live on stage with a six-piece line-up, fronted by founding member Brian Canham. Some of these songs haven’t been performed since their release, so for fans of the band, this show is not to be missed!

If you enjoy your classic ‘80s music and want to transport yourself back to the iconic decade, then round up your friends and book your tickets fast!

‘Pseudo Echo Ultimate Tour’ will be on at Blue Mountains Theatre in Springwood on Friday, March 24 at 8pm. Tickets are $65. For more information or to book, visit www. bluemountainstheatre.com.au or call 4723 5050.

CASSIDY PEARCE

CASSIDY PEARCE

After a catastrophic crash on an unknown planet, pilot Mills (Adam Driver) quickly discovers he’s actually stranded on Earth, 65 million years ago. Now, with only one chance at rescue, Mills and the only other survivor, Koa (Ariana Greenblatt), must make their way across an unknown terrain riddled with dangerous prehistoric creatures in an epic fight to survive.

From the writers of ‘A Quiet Place’ and producer Sam Raimi, ‘65’ is a sci-fi thriller starring Adam Driver, Ariana Greenblatt, and Chloe Coleman.

Written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods and produced by Sam Raimi, Deborah Liebling and Zainab Azizi. Also produced by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods.

‘65’ is now showing.

2

In ‘Scream VI’, four survivors of the Ghostface murders leave Woodsboro behind for a fresh start in New York City.

However, they soon find themselves in a fight for their lives when a new killer embarks on a bloody rampage.

Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter), Jasmin Savoy Brown (Mindy Meeks-Martin), Mason Gooding (Chad Meeks-Martin), Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter), Hayden Panettiere (Kirby Reed) and Courteney Cox (Gale Weathers) return to their roles in the franchise alongside Jack Champion, Henry Czerny, Liana Liberato, Dermot Mulroney, Devyn Nekoda, Tony Revolori, Josh Segarra, and Samara Weaving.

‘Scream VI’ is now showing.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê One of the surprising bits of news to come through this week was confirmation that ‘Shark Tank’ would be returning to 10 later this year. It’s unbelievably been five years since we last saw the series, which brings together five business superstars, who put their own cash on the line to try and turn the next big idea into a profitable venture. When ‘Shark Tank’ last screened in 2018, the ‘Sharks’ included Steve Baxter, Janine Allis, Andrew Banks, Naomi Simson and Glen Richards. No word on the new line-up yet.

Ê 10 has confirmed Melissa Leong and international chef Amaury Guichon as judges for ‘MasterChef: Dessert Masters’. Offering $100,000 in prize money, the ‘short run’ series is expected to feature well-known names in pastry, desserts and all things sweet. ‘MasterChef: Dessert Masters’ will air later this year.

Ê Former ‘Sunrise’ host Sam Armytage has been confirmed as the new host of ‘Farmer Wants A Wife’. Channel Seven have already started airing promos for the series, which is expected to air after Easter. Long-time host

MASTERCHEF: DESSERT MASTER, CHANNEL 10

Natalie Gruzlewski will still be involved but in a scaled back role.

Ê Highly anticipated SBS series ‘Alone Australia’ will premiere with a double episode on Wednesday, March 29 at 7.30pm. The 11-part series sees 10 Australian survivalists dropped in the Tasmanian wilderness, completely isolated from the world and each other, stripped of modern possessions, contact and comforts, to self-document their experience – the last one standing takes home $250,000. It’s a shame it’s on SBS because this sounds like a show not to be missed!

Ê ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’, a live-action reimagining of the J.M. Barrie novel and the 1953 animated classic, will screen next month on Disney+. ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ introduces Wendy Darling, a young girl afraid to leave her childhood home behind, who meets Peter Pan, a boy who refuses to grow up. Alongside her brothers and a tiny fairy, Tinker Bell, she travels with Peter to the magical world of

Neverland. There, she encounters an evil pirate captain, Captain Hook, and embarks on a thrilling and dangerous adventure that will change her life forever. Starring Jude Law as Captain Hook, ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ drops on Friday, April 28.

Ê Still on Disney+ and the streamer has just released the trailer for new film ‘Boston Strangler’, which is set to be released next Friday, March 17. The film follows Loretta McLaughlin (Keira Knightley), a reporter for the Record-American newspaper, who becomes the first journalist to connect the Boston Strangler murders. The trailer is a beauty!

Ê Huge news for fans of ‘Billions’ this week with confirmation that Damian Lewis will return for the seventh season of the finance drama. The show hasn’t quite been the same since the abrupt departure of Lewis’ character Axe after season 5. ‘Billions’ returns to Stan later this year.

Get Macca’s®

TV Guide: March 10–16

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

5:00 Movie: “The Incredible Burt Wonderstone” (M d,s,v) (’13) Stars:

2:25 Movie: “Agatha Christie’s Evil Under The Sun” (PG) (’82)

Stars: Peter Ustinov 4:50 Movie: “Geronimo” (PG) (’62)

Stars: Chuck Connors 7:00 Rugby Union: Brumbies vs Reds *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post Match 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 The Larkins

Gerard Butler 11:30 Movie: “Rough Night” (M) (’17)

4:00 Movie: “Superman IV: The Quest For Peace” (PG) (’87)

Stars: Christopher Reeve 6:00 Movie: “The Karate Kid” (PG) (’84) Stars: Elisabeth Shue 8:40 Movie: “The Equalizer 2” (M) (’18) Stars: Denzel Washington

3:40 The Goldbergs (PG) 4:00 Movie: “The Incredible Burt Wonderstone” (M d,s,v) (’13)

Stars: Alan Arkin 6:00 Modern Family (PG) 6:30 The Simpsons (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: SVU (M) 11:30 Hell’s Kitchen USA (M)

5:30 Ginger And The Vegesaurs 6:05 The Adventures Of Paddington 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Grace’s Amazing Machines 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 You Can’t Ask That (PG) 8:35 Louis Theroux’s Forbidden America (M l,v)

5:30 Feeding The Scrum 6:00 Stories From The Land (PG)

6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Wild Mexico (PG) 7:40 BLK: An Origin Story (M) 8:30 The Lake Of Scars (PG) 10:15 Movie: “Edge Of The Knife” (MA15+) (’18) Stars: Curtis Brown

6:00 Mary Makes It Easy 6:30

12:00 JAG (PG) 1:00

Beyond The Fire 2:00

What’s Up Down Under 2:30 Football: Round 20: Melbourne City v Brisbane Roar *Live* 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Movie: “In Like Flynn” (MA15+) (’18) Stars: Thomas Cocquerel

6:00 Friends (PG) 7:30 The Neighbourhood (PG) 9:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 12:00 Friends (PG) 3:30 The Middle (PG) 5:00 The Neighbourhood (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:00 Friends (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

English/ French) Sunday 12 March 5:00 Escape To The Perfect Town 6:00 Border Security USA (PG) 6:30 Border Patrol (PG) 7:00 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Heathrow (PG) 9:30 Chris Tarrant’s Extreme Railways (PG)

5:15

Movie: “Bean” (PG) (’97)

Stars: Rowan Atkinson 7:00

4:25 Movie: “The War Wagon” (PG) (’67)

Stars: John Wayne

6:30 Desert Vet (PG) 7:30

Movie: “Johnny English” (PG) (’03) Stars: Rowan Atkinson

8:45 Movie: “John Wick” (MA15+) (’14) Stars: Keanu Reeves

David Attenborough’s A Perfect Planet (PG) 8:40 Movie: “The Gauntlet” (M l,v) (’77) Stars: Clint Eastwood 10:55 Major Crimes (M) 11:55 House (M) Classifications:

5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown

(M) 8:30 Murdoch Mysteries

(M) 9:30

Kavanagh Q.C. (M)

11:15 Murdoch Mysteries (PG)

6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 AFL: Round

1: Richmond v Carlton

*Live* From The MCG 10:30

AFL: Post Game 11:00 Movie: “We Are Marshall” (PG) (’06)

6:00 Modern Family (PG) 6:30

5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Taskmaster Australia (PG) 8:30 Gogglebox Australia (M) 9:30 The Montreal Comedy Festival (M)

2:00 Diana - Interview That Shocked The World (PG) 3:15 Mastermind 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 4:15 The Architecture The Railways Built 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Dinosaur With Stephen Fry 8:30 London’s Super Tunnel (PG) 9:40 Vigil (MA15+) Thursday 16 March

Previous solution - Medium

Last week’s solution

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black . These need to be filled in with numbers that is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store. The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

Word Search

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

THEME: SNAKES

ANTIVENOM

BROAD HEAD

CAMOUFLAGE

COMMON

CONSTRICTOR

DANGEROUS

DISTINCTIVE GRASSLANDS

LENGTH

MARKINGS

PREDATOR

RAINFORESTS

REPTILES

TERRITORY

TREES

VENOM

WOODLANDS

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your

1. If you were heading towards the city on the T1 North Shore line, what station comes after Turramurra?

2. At what station does the T1 Western Line officially end, heading away from the city?

3. The first railway in Sydney was opened in 1855 between the city and what suburb?

4. Platforms 26 and 27 at Central Station have never been used and are considered ‘ghost platforms’. What line were they originally to be part of?

5. In what year did the Toongabbie-Prospect station close?

6. A station servicing which famous cemetery was closed in 1948?

ANSWERS

1. Pymble

2. Emu Plains

3. Granville

4. Eastern Suburbs Line

5. 1926

6. Rookwood

knowledge about Sydney’s train network in our special trivia quiz this week...

TEST YOUR BRAIN

How to beat Str8ts

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

Name the Movie

Wallen’s epic new album

If Morgan Wallen’s (pictured) new record is on in your car, your better make it a long road trip.

‘One Thing At A Time’ was released last Friday and it features an extraordinary 36 tracks.

“This record represents the last few years of my life, the highs and the lows,” Wallen said.

“It also brings together the musical influences that have shaped me as an artist – country, alternative and hip-hop. There are 36 songs on this album because we just kept exploring with fresh lyrics, music and production ideas and these are the songs that felt right to me. It was a blast to create, and I was so grateful to be back in the studio to lay this out for my fans.”

The album is available now on all your regular streaming services.

Wallen is about to tour Australia and appear at the CMC Rocks festival in Queensland later this month.

Paisley back with a bang

Country music staple Brad Paisley has released a new track, ‘Same Here’.

It’s the first song on his new label, UMG, as Paisley begins the next stage in his successful country career.

Paisley will release a brand new studio album later this year, his first in some time.

Paisley first broke into the country scene in 1999 with the hit ‘He Didn’t Have To Be’.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune are all stimulating your cash zone. Letting finances take their own course seems tempting but you need to keep up to speed with money matters. If you increase your financial literacy then it will pay off handsomely further down the track, as you replace short-term whims with wise longterm strategies. Slow down on Thursday and Friday, otherwise you could do something rash or say something stupid.

BY BOHO ASTRO - JOANNE MADELINE MOORE

PISCES

Perceptive Pisceans have an uncanny sixth sense and you’ll be using it in spades as the Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune all meander through your sign. You’ll feel increasingly inspired, compassionate and/or spiritually inclined. So it’s the perfect time to break out the paint brushes, dance in the moonlight, help someone in need or explore a new spiritual practice. The Sun/Mercury/Neptune hook-ups particularly highlight creativity and healing.

This week Mars (your power planet) squares Neptune, the Sun and Mercury. Which could confuse your mind, fire up your temper and increase your impatience. Rational, reasonable Rams will simmer down, take a few deep breaths, and transform your exasperation into red hot creativity and vigorous physical activity. Wisdom for the week is from birthday great, lawyer and jurist Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “You can disagree without being disagreeable.”

Venus (your ruler) shifts into Taurus, so you’ll be at your flirtatious best as you charm the cynics and dazzle the doubters. If you’re attached, it’s time to rejuvenate the relationship with some good old-fashioned romance. Single Bulls – you could meet your soul mate while you’re doing routine daily chores … like grocery shopping or walking the dog. But watch your luxury-loving urge to splurge doesn’t spin out of control via a spontaneous spending spree.

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

With gung-ho Mars still in Gemini, your quicksilver energy is firing on all cylinders this week. The Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune also set the stage for a career upgrade. (But your tendency to over-talk and over-share could get you into trouble – especially if you spread gossip.) When it comes to a difficult professional relationship, you may feel as if you’re going backwards. Compromise and patience will set you on the road to a satisfying long-term solution.

With no less than six planets activating your career and aspirations zones, it’s time to have ambitious dreams and set humongous goals. Stop procrastinating and instead, ask yourself an important question. “Do I need to tweak my dreams to make them a more honest reflection of the real me?” Believe in yourself, be authentic and reach for the stars! But you may feel rather crabby on Thursday and Friday when Mars inflames your moods and shortens your patience.

This week the Sun (your patron planet) links up with Neptune in the gentle, mystical sign of Pisces. So slow down and calm down Cats! Tap into your imaginative, intuitive, spiritual side. Dream a special dream that will propel you into a magical future. And aim to surround yourself with family and friends who support and encourage your aspirations. So your motto is from birthday great, actress Glenn Close, “Be aware of your inner voice and follow it.”

Attached Virgo – is your relationship stuck in a time-warp where it’s been difficult to move forward? This week’s stars bring a shift in perspective, as you view your lover in a promising (and realistic) new light. Single Virgo – are you sick and tired of looking for love? Your Prince or Princess is waiting in the wings, but you may have to kiss a few frogs before you finally find them! Friday night favours friendships and romantic declarations in the moonlight.

With lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter in your partnership zone, this week is all about cosy companionship, inspired collaboration and generous joint ventures. The more you focus on the needs of loved ones (and the more you cooperate with others) the happier everyone will be. However –with Mars increasing your impatience – take extra care when driving, travelling and talking (don’t speed, double-check your itinerary, and don’t pass on garrulous gossip).

You’ll feel more inspired than usual, as the planets stimulate your self-expression zone. Use the power of your imagination to solve problems and soar into higher realms of creativity. Your motto for the week is from birthday great Albert Einstein, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” Love and friendship are favoured on Thursday, and the weekend’s a great time to organise a neighbourhood get-together or a romantic rendezvous.

Are you confused about which path to follow in the future? Pay close attention to your nightly dreams. They are full of creative ideas and symbolic wisdom that can lead you in the right direction. Painters, artists, writers, musicians and performers will feel particularly inspired as Venus, Jupiter and Saturn boost creativity and productivity. Some Sagittarians will bump into a lover from the past. But do you really want to travel down that rocky road again?

Family matters and domestic DIY projects are favoured this week, as lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter navigate their way through your home zone. Can you figure out a problem that has loved ones stymied? They’re expecting you to come up with the goods so get creative! For many Capricorns, luck and family are linked. You’ll also find the more time and effort you put into education, commu-

HEALTH

WITH EMMA NASSIF

ONE POINT

HEALTH

• 4732 5188

Improving your general health: Five tips on increasing your vegetable intake

You have probably heard about the amazing benefits of eating your vegetables, such as the high fibre content and how that regulates your bowels, reduces your cholesterol and increases your satiety. You may have also heard about the antioxidant content of vegetables and how they help your skin, hair and nails as well as reduce inflammation and your risk of cancer. The list of benefits goes on.

But it can be overwhelming to think about eating the recommended five to six servings of vegetables per day. Luckily, it is achievable when you utilise these five tips:

1. Plan, plan plan! If you don’t have a plan on what you are eating that week and have not written a shopping list with the exact vegetables you are going to buy, then you are probably not going to eat enough vegetables. Plan the meals you are eating each week, ensuring they are high in vegetables and buy accordingly.

2. Portion your plate. Follow my recommended plate guide at lunch and dinner by including half your meals as non-starchy vegetables. Book with me to find out more about how to practically apply this.

3. Snack on veggies. If you enjoy fresh capsicum, cucumber or cherry tomatoes, then make sure you have a stack in your fridge or plenty in your lunchbox, ready to be snacked on!

4. Utilise frozen vegetables. This is an

easy and affordable way to increase your vegetable intake. Frozen veggies are also just as nutritious as the fresh ones in the supermarket as they are snap frozen after harvest, which means that contain nearly all their nutrition.

5. Hide your vegetables. If you are not a fan of eating salads or roast veggies or stir fries or just the thought of a vegetable makes you gag, then this technique of hiding your veggies is a great way to try and reach five serves of vegetables. Examples could be using veggies in fritters or meat patties, in pasta sauces blitzed up or in smoothies. Prioritise your vegetables at meal times and you are sure to meet the recommended amount!

Book an appointment with me if you struggle or want customised advice!

SWIM SAFETY

WITH JULIE SHELDRAKE • NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE & EVA BORY’S SWIM SCHOOL • 4730 8900

It’s difficult to quantify the statistical significance of how effective swimming lessons can be, however research out of the US suggests that formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning for children aged one to four by 88 per cent. This is significant, especially considering that drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death in this age group.

I cannot stress enough that children need ongoing weekly swimming instruction to maintain their swimming and water safety skills. At every age, structured swim classes help kids become familiar with, and confident around, water and set the foundation for later swimming skills and aquatic safety.

The Royal Life Saving 2022 Drowning Report shows that there were 17 drowning deaths in Australia among children aged 0-4 years – a 29 per cent decrease on last year and a 23 per cent decrease on the 10-year average, so a welcome improvement after rising dramatically during COVID lockdowns. It is generally accepted that the optimum age to start formal structured swimming lessons is six months of age, and the sooner a child is able to get themselves back to the side of the pool independently, the better. Our program has children swimming independently of their parent or carer from around two years of age.

Tragically, 15 drowning deaths occurred in children aged 5-14 years, a seven per cent increase on last year and a 36 per cent

increase on the 10-year average, perhaps a reflection of children missing out on swimming lessons during the pandemic.

Children who are 11 to 12-years-old should be able to continuously swim 50m using freestyle or backstroke, scull (use their arms to move around in the water) float or tread water for two minutes, throw a rescue flotation aid to a partner at five metres away and swim fully clothed, in swimwear or normal clothes (to simulate an accidental fall into water). Royal Lifesaving reports that children who had regular weekly lessons were most likely to reach these national safety and swimming benchmarks at age nine and 10, yet sadly only 25 per cent were staying in lessons long enough to reach this standard.

As for teenagers – well, this age group isn’t always known for making the best decisions. At this age parents and teachers should be addressing any lacking swim skills, as well as knowledge, behaviour and attitudes of this group of students to promote safer and sensible behaviour in water environments.

We have been teaching the local community to swim and educating about general water safety for over 30 years, and operate seven days a week, all year round, at two locations, with proven and trusted lesson options from babies to adults. The structure and discipline learnt in our program – often a child’s first lesson experience – promote optimum learning outcomes, and their ultimate safety. Get your kids swimming!

Swimming lessons are vital: At any age, continued education is the key

TALKING TECH

WITH DAVID NORRIS NORTEC IT • 9894 9514

The latest must-have travel apps

I’m off on holiday to Mexico. Since it has been a while since I last travelled, I decided to see what my latest must-have travel applications should be preloaded on my mobile. Perhaps one of these will help you on your next trip.

• TripIt: This app has been around for some time and helps you organise your travel itinerary, sync with your calendar, and access your confirmation details and directions offline.

• Waze / Google Maps: These apps provide real-time traffic and navigation information, offline maps and ways to get to your destination by varying modes of transport.

• PackPoint: This helps you pack smartly by creating a customised list based on your destination, weather, activities, and trip duration.

• iTranslate/ Google Translate: Helps you translate words and phrases between English and Spanish, as well as other languages. You can also use voice input and output.

• AccuWeather: Get accurate and detailed weather forecasts and alerts, and warnings for any location.

• Tripadvisor: Discover and book the best hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tours, as well as read reviews from other travellers.

• Spotify / Audible: My trip is a bus trip, so having both apps is necessary. I can get engrossed in a good book or listen to my favourite music.

• XE: A currency conversion app. I enter

the amount in local currency, and it does the conversion.

• Communication apps: Messenger, WhatsApp or another similar app to keep in contact with friends and family.

• Splitwise: As I’m going with a group, I will use this app to track shared expenses shared by the group for easier splitting later.

• Prey Anti Theft: Helps you protect your phone and other devices from theft or loss. You can track, lock, and wipe your device remotely.

• Flightradar24: This app helps you track any flight in the world, as well as get information about airports, airlines, and weather.

• Airline Applications.

• Bing AI: is having an intelligent AI in your pocket to help you with any difficulties. Then there are your country-specific applications. You will need to investigate these for your specific destination, but they could include

• A specific destination app outlines attractions, cultures, history and cuisine. For Mexico it is Atlas Turístico de México.

• A public transport application. In Mexico, this is Busbud and Moovit.

• Skyalert is a specific Mexico and United States application designed to let you know and warn you of any seismic activity

• Local private Transportation App. In most locations, this is likely to be Uber.

MONEY MATTERS

WITH ALEX MCKENZIE FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES • 4704 8585

Common business planning mistakes

The business structure doesn’t align with the business goals It is important to have the appropriate business structure, and there is no one size fits all answer. Most people focus on the taxation considerations when making a decision on the structure, this makes a lot of sense. However we also encourage clients to consider how effective their structure is for future considerations. How effective would this structure be if my or my family’s situation changed? Would this structure be effective if a business partner entered or exited the business?

The business doesn’t know where their profit comes from Most businesses have a pretty good handle on their sources of revenue; this is different to the sources of profit. Often business streams that generate a large amount of revenue are not overly profitable. Many businesses do not accurately calculate the cost of delivering their product or service. Most of us are pretty good at attributing the direct costs, things like cost of goods sold, materials and wages. The indirect costs are often not dealt with appropriately. In rare cases they are ignored completely, more often they are attributed in a uniform method across the business. This is often misleading. By way of example, if a certain revenue stream requires significantly more space, (for production or storage etc.) it makes sense to attribute the cost of that space accordingly. If we know what areas generate the most profit we can focus our attention to those revenue streams.

No consideration for cash flow

Many businesses are profitable on paper, but are unable to provide their owners with an income in line with this profit. In the worse cases, despite being profitable, the business is unable to pay the bills. This is often the case where businesses are going through a growth period. The profit is being used to meet the increased demand, this can be buying more product or new materials, improving infrastructure or increasing staff. By the time they reap the rewards from putting money back into the business it is necessary to reinvest again and the cycle continues. It is common for a business to have the profits sitting in inventory and debtors. It is important to have at least one eye on the cash flow of the business.

No exit strategy

At the end of the day, one way or another we all need to exit the business. It is important as the time approaches to plan for it accordingly. We encourage clients to develop a method to maximise the value of the business. We try to identify potential purchasers, whether it be an internal successor, a competitor or in some cases a business on the same supply chain (i.e. a customer or supplier).

Look after yourself

This seems obvious, but many small business owners tend to not look after their own future. They underpay themselves, ignore their own super and put more and more of their resources into the business. The idea of being in business is to make money.

TRAVEL

P&O PACIFIC ADVENTURE

Words: Emily Feszczuk | Photos: Supplied | More Info: www.pocruises.com.au

Having never cruised before, I will admit that I may have assumed that cruise ships were full of older people playing bingo but as I found myself at a nightclub on Deck 18 at 1am that pre-conceived notion was quickly overcome.

Taking it back a step to when I was invited to board P&O’s Pacific Adventure for a fournight getaway to Moreton Island, I never could have imagined how much is on offer on each level of what is essentially a floating hotel and resort.

Following over 2,600 lanyard wearing guests, I was quick to grab the first of many strawberry daiquiris and head to the sail away party where we witnessed the stunning sight of barely scraping under the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

With 21 dining options available there is a lot to try, and 400 Gradi by award-winning Melbourne chef Johnny Di Francesco was a delicious choice to load up on authentic Italian before setting out to discover all the different and stylishly designed corners of the ship, including one of the stage shows on each night.

After a peaceful sleep with the newfound sensation of being gently rocked by the ocean, we took in the vast blue view from our comfortable balcony room and then went up to the main deck to see it in all its glory.

The seasoned travellers set up on their deck chairs early and it is easy to see how people can spend their whole holiday in the Oasis adults only pool area or the Magrodome family area, not to mention the dual racing

waterslides which were a hit for everyone, regardless of age.

Wanting to immerse myself in the experience, I bought my bingo tickets, my lucky dabber and as I joined a full lively theatre, I discovered how fun it is thinking you are just one legs 11 away from winning a cash prize (spoiler – I didn’t win).

The rest of the afternoon was spent by taking a cocktail class in a charming hole-in-thewall bar, getting some lunch from The Pantry which has a range of cuisines in a buffet style and spending more time screaming than taking in the view as I (reluctantly) ziplined

across the top of the ship, which is a must do for adrenaline seekers.

The Gatsby themed night saw as equally as many feather boas as a Harry Styles concert and it was the perfect attire to witness the very cheeky and cabaret style show – Blanc de Blanc, Uncorked!

After some more delicious drinks, and a late comedy show we found ourselves at the Altitude nightclub which parties all night long but is a convenient easy walk back to your room.

Trying to fit in every session of trivia and karaoke at the Adventure hotel meant that a day of relaxation was needed which came

when we had a shore day where people ventured out to Tangalooma Island Resort.

Taking advantage of a noticeably quieter ship, we spent the day at the Byron Beach Club which is a private access area for guests booking into suites.

Swimming, sunning ourselves, and playing games like Connect Four was perfect before we headed out to explore the island on a tender and took in the magnitude of the Pacific Adventure from the shoreline.

Our shore excursion was one we will not forget where a pod of wild dolphins came up to us in the shallows at sunset to be fed

“I NEVER COULD HAVE IMAGINED HOW MUCH IS ON OFFER ON EACH LEVEL OF WHAT IS ESSENTIALLY A FLOATING HOTEL AND RESORT”

and marvelled at (and marvel I certainly did).

The white themed Bianco party was a blast, and the sea days became a blur of more bingo, listening to live music and watching groups of friends and families relaxing and enjoying the wonderful atmosphere and phenomenal service given by the 1100 members of cheerful crew.

There is so much included within a cruise package with shows and complimentary restaurants but adding on a hot stone massage at the Elemis at Sea Spa and dinner at celebrity chef Luke Mangan’s bar and grill will leave you wanting more.

Sitting down for a drink with P&O Cruise Director Sam Austin, he summed up

ships prove to be a popular holiday choice for all generations.

“I’ve worked in the cruise industry for eight years and there has been a huge stigma about cruising being for old people but that is changing with adults only cruise lines, we do themed cruises and P&O did the first ever pride cruise in Australia which was insane,” Austin said.

“We have a night club, loud music venues, quiet places you can sit to relax, a variety of shows with talented performers, fun activities and incredible kids centres that cater for the young ones so make sure to experience as much as you can.”

With endless food, drinks and activities, if you have never hit the seas before or if you are a cruise veteran, make sure to get down the gangway of a P&O liner.

Accounts Payable/Receivables Officer – Full Time Role

Do you love working with numbers and enjoy seeing thing “balance”?

Do you enjoy attention to detail and knowing the job is done right?

And, do you enjoy working as part of a team that are committed to delivering exceptional client outcomes?

And, do you have a strong desire to learn and have an opportunity to develop your skills in the bookkeeping and accounting profession?

Then read on . . .

Who are we?

CHAMP Enterprises is a small, thriving family owned business with a team of 8, based in the Lower Blue Mountains.

We manage a wide variety of clients’ bookkeeping requirements across New South Wales, the ACT and Queensland and specialise in providing financial management for the Childcare Centre industry, in particular the Out Of School Hours care (OOSH) sector. With excellent staff retention, we are continuing to grow our existing team and an opportunity has arisen for our business to take on a Accounts Payable/Receivables Officer.

Ideal Candidate Traits:

Reporting to the Director, we are seeking an Accounts Payables/Receivables Officer to work full-time, 5 days a week in our office environment

We are looking for someone who is client focussed, can get things done, shows initiative and has a positive “can do” and problem-solving attitude to be an ideal addition to our team.

You will direct report to your Senior Accountant/Bookkeeper on a daily basis.

You will be required to be accountable to manage and complete set tasks, with the ability to be self-motivated to also see other tasks required to meet client outcomes, and also be willing to support the team as a whole with task completion with overall deadlines.

Skills:

You will enjoy a role that is constantly changing and providing new challenges. This varied role will suit someone with well developed verbal and written skills who has proficient computer skills, particularly in MS Office and Excel.

You will also have experience in Xero, MYOB and ideally QuickBooks.

You will be required to perform tasks with solid organisational skills, the highest level of accuracy and attention to detail and have a problem solving approach to tasks. Strong communication skills are a must, together with demonstrated friendly and excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.

Responsibilities will include:

• Processing accounts receivable

• Processing accounts payable

• Processing of Hubdoc

• Reconciling Shopify and PayPal accounts

• Emailing clients their Accounts Payable file due for payment

• Email clients receivable and outstanding list for follow up

• Email of remittance advices and receipts

• All bank reconciliations

• Data entry or importing of file as required

• Assist with clean up jobs

• Back up Payroll Officer as required

• Preparation of IAS and BAS documentation for the Bookkeeper/Accountant Qualifications and experience:

You must have a minimum of 12 months experience in an accounts payable/receivable role. You must be proficient in MYOB and Xero, and ideally Quickbooks

Holding a tertiary qualification in accounting, finance or related field will be looked on favourably but not required.

To be considered for this position, please email a cover letter and your resume to michelle@champenterprises.com.au and include the word APPLE in the email’s Subject line. Applications who skip this step will not be considered (yes, we want to see your eye for detail, your ability to follow instructions and your sense of humour).

SEEKING STATIC SECURITY GUARDS

Chief Group Services is an Australian owned and operated company servicing our Clients nationwide. Led by a result driven, and dedicated Management Team, we are recruiting SECURITY GUARDS to join our Company as outstanding additions.

What is on offer:

We have an upcoming contract that will require Security Guards in a static capacity This contract demands high standard, reliable, well-presented and self-managed Security candidates with the ability to choose your own roster in a 7-day week, 12 hour shifts. Rates payable $30-$35 per hour Full Time and Part Time Static Asset Protection positions available.

Requirements:

• Current NSW Security Licence – minimum Class 1A

• Current First Aid Certi cate

•Valid Driver’s Licence

• No experience is required – training will be provided

• Uniforms provided

• Excellent communication and report writing skills with an excellent command of the English language - both written and verbal

• A strong code of ethics

• Full and unlimited working rights in Australia

Enquire:

Info@chiefgroupervices.com.au

Candidates will be shortlisted and inter viewed and will need to complete a face-to-face meeting. Unsuccessful candidates will be led for future positions.

Our State Licence Numbers:

• NSW ML 000103646

• SA AL 291105

• QLD FL 4082581

• VIC BL 95452610

• ACT ML 17502554

“Together , wesupport children’sandfamilies’ learning , safetyand wellbeing ”

If you’re looking to join a workplace that has an inspiring purpose, offers a family-friendly work environment, and nurtures your personal and professional development, join the Connect Children and Families team.

meaning we exist purely to improve the lives of children and their families in NSW ’s Blue Mountains region and areas of Western Sydney. Our work truly makes a difference, creating positive change for children, families and community

Our small organisational size means greater employee connection and a community feel to our workplace. Our team members are names not numbers

Current Career Opportunities

• Educational Leader—Part Time—Possum Early Childhood Centre

• Program Coordinator—Part Time—Connect and Nurture

• Speech Pathologist (Paediatric)—Connected Abilities surroundings environment

reduce your taxable income and pay

the values

Torres Strait Islander candidates as

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A life-saving partnership

Isuzu announce major new agreement with Royal Flying Doctor Service

Isuzu UTE Australia (IUA) has announced a long-term national partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). This major national partnership will assist with delivering better health outcomes to Australians living beyond the reach of mainstream medical services, through financial support and the provision of a fleet of Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X vehicles.

“Isuzu UTE Australia understands the importance of having dependable transportation in isolated and challenging environments and as such, our D-MAX and MU-X vehicles are a perfect match for this sometimes-remote work and the long-distance towing demands of the Royal Flying Doctor Service where reliability is crucial,” said Isuzu UTE Australia's Deputy Managing Director, Koichiro Yoshida.

The RFDS is a national, charitable, health organisation delivering primary healthcare and 24-hour emergency services for those that live in rural and remote Australia. Delivering essential health services for almost a century, the RFDS comprises an extensive national network of 23 bases, 79 aircraft and 183 road transport vehicles and mobile clinics, supported by more than 2,300 staff members.

“This new and exciting partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service now enables

IUA to support many of our regional, rural and most remote communities by aiding the incredible work provided by the RFDS – and complements our ongoing support of Surf Life Saving Australia that assists and services coastal-based communities,” Yoshida said.

A valuable asset and support for the RFDS, the Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X vehicles will

be enlisted to tow the Flying Doctor’s stateof-the-art training simulators around the country for its schools Education Program and national events program.

“It is important for IUA to give back to those that support us, and so this is our way of saying thank you to the Royal Flying Doctor Service for their tireless service and commitment

to our community by helping them educate students at schools and raise awareness and funds at events across the country,” Yoshida added.

“As a national health charity, the support from individuals, small businesses and corporations has underpinned critical delivery of primary health and emergency medical services for decades,” said Federation Executive Director of the RFDS, Frank Quinlan.

“We are excited about this new major national partnership with Isuzu UTE Australia, as it enables us to keep the Flying Doctor flying, driving, and caring for people across rural and remote Australia.

“This partnership with IUA will enable us to provide better health access for those that live in rural and remote Australia, and for that we are very grateful.”

Support via corporate partnerships such as this from Isuzu UTE Australia help the RFDS to purchase new aircraft, invest in critical infrastructure, upgrade life-saving medical equipment, and deliver essential primary health care and crucial mental health services.

Isuzu UTE Australia will be in partnership with the RFDS for at least the next three years and they look forward to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need of vital health services in rural and remote communities.

Isuzu MU-X and Isuzu D-MAX and RFDS Beechcraft King Air B360 aircraft.

SPORT

RACING TO SUCCESS

Liddiard’s greatest honour

Star Penrith cricketer Tyran Liddiard says representing his Indigenous culture will always be the highlight of his career.

Last week the 25-year-old wicket keeper not only represented New South Wales at the 2023 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) in Alice Springs, but he captained the team to glory.

New South Wales (9/135) claimed their fourth consecutive national title in the men’s division with a 48-run win over Tasmania at Traeger Oval. Liddiard was named Player of the Match with 35 runs off 22 balls and also took out the NICC Fielding Award.

Following several years of cancellations due to the pandemic, 2023 saw the return of the NICC, which celebrates the incredible Indigenous talent in the game.

“I’ve been involved in the National Indigenous Cricket Championships for the past decade now and it’s something that I’ll cherish forever – I love going and it’s always an amazing week,” Liddiard told the Weekender

“This was the first one since COVID, but it was good to go up there and play. We’ve won four-in-a-row now and hopefully next year we can go and win five.”

It was the second year Liddiard has captained New South Wales in the competition, which sees every state play each other once before the top two teams battle it out in the Final.

Liddiard starred in the T20 Final against Tasmania, winning Player of the Match as well as the competition’s Fielding Award.

“Those awards were just a bonus. I was very lucky to get that Fielding Award for the most dismissals, but I told the boys that it was a team award because without the bowlers, I wouldn’t be able to take so many catches,” Liddiard said.

“To get the Player of the Match award in the Final is something I’ve very proud of also… I’ve never done that before. It’s one of those awards where I’ve got to thank the boys as well because I don’t get that award without my teammates.

“I was very honoured.”

Liddiard is no stranger to playing in Indigenous teams, having represented his culture

in several over the past decade including the Sydney Thunder as well as Australia in 2015 and 2018.

“Representing my culture is the highlight of my career, I don’t think anything is going to top it,” Liddiard admitted.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to play Second XI for New South Wales, but this is different because you’re representing your mob, your culture, your inner self – who you are as a person.

“It’s different to just representing New South Wales, you’re representing your culture and who you are, which I think is an amazing thing that I’m able to do.”

Liddiard is hopeful of being selected in the Australian Indigenous team, who will tour Vanuatu in May.

Password: JNW15PJ3

New South Wales celebrate winning the men’s final against Tasmania in Alice Springs. Photo: Chris Hyde – Cricket Australia via Getty Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Back behind the wheel. p71.

Giants settle on leadership group

2022 and also took out the three-peat of club awards at the Giants 2022 Gala Dinner.

Giants Netball have announced their leadership group for the 2023 Super Netball season, with the same trio set to lead the team in orange and charcoal.

English international and inaugural Giant Jo Harten will remain as skipper, with midcourters Jamie-Lee Price and Maddie Hay named as vice-captains.

The 2023 season will be Harten’s seventh with the club and fourth officially at the helm. The 33-year-old has captained the Giants since the 2020 season, having taken over from inaugural captain Kim Green.

During her tenure as captain the Giants have made two Finals series (2021 and 2022) and taken out a Minor Premiership (2021).

Harten is one of the league’s most prolific leaders and goal shooters. She topped the leader board for Super Shots for a third straight season in

The 33-year-old said it was an honour to continue to lead the Giants.

“The passion I have for this club and the people within it grows each year and I’m looking forward to the season ahead,” Harten said.

“Along with this passion I also feel great responsibility in contributing to the environment the best way I know how. Being a leader alongside Jamie and Maddie is part of that contribution and such a privilege. Hopefully we can steer the ship towards exciting things in 2023.”

Price returns to her role as vice-captain for a second season, while 27-year-old Hay moves into the formal leadership position for the first time.

“I’m so excited to be named as a co-vice-captain for 2023,” Hay said.

“I think we have a really exciting bunch of girls, so it’s a massive privilege to hold this role.

“I’ve learnt so much from Jo and myself as a leader, and enjoyed the experience to date.

“I look forward to the chal lenges and growth ahead as part of this very special team and club.”

27-year-old Price echoed Hay’s comments.

“I’m really excited to be named in the leadership group again,” she said.

“I’m ready to step up again and continue to learn and lead along the way and what better group to do that with.”

The Giants will open their 2023 Super Netball campaign on the Sunshine Coast, taking on the Lightning on Sunday, March 19.

The Giants’ first home game of the season will be in Round 2 when they host defending Premiers, the West Coast Fever, at Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday, March 26. Tickets via Ticketmaster.

Jo Harten will skipper the Giants this season.

Photo: Narelle Spangher, Netball NSW.

NATHAN TAYLOR

On a back-to-back quest

Josh Anderson ready to defend his Aussie Racing Cars title as season commences

Mulgoa resident Josh Anderson is hoping to achieve what his favourite footy team did late last year, and that’s go back-to-back.

The 23-year-old Penrith Panthers supporter is hoping to emulate the NRL club by winning consecutive Aussie Racing Cars championships when the 2023 season gets underway on the streets of Newcastle this weekend. After first signing up to Aussie Racing Cars as a high school student back in 2017, Anderson enjoyed the best season of his blossoming career last year – claiming overall honours in the 2022 Super Series.

Speaking with the Weekender, Anderson said he can’t wait to defend his crown, starting this weekend at the Newcastle 500.

“I can’t wait to get stuck into the race up at Newcastle. I’ve been busy working on my car and working on my fitness, so I’m ready to go for the season,” he said.

“We’ve got CoolDrive sticking with us again, so that’s awesome to have a big brand like them sponsoring me this year. We have the #1 decal on the door and I’m really looking forward it.”

This will be Anderson’s fourth full season in Aussie Racing Cars and he’s hoping plenty of simulated racing during the recent off-season will put him in good stead.

“I do a lot of sim racing throughout the year, which keeps me quite sharp because, whilst it’s not real, you’re still thinking about how to drive a car around a track as fast as you can,” Anderson said.

“For me, that’s the main way I prepare. Having that preparation during the off-season, making sure I’m fit and in the right frame of mind, I find sim racing is very valuable.”

Around The Grounds

CRICKET: Penrith have overcome a brave Hawkesbury outfit in Round 14 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. Hawkesbury posted 271 in their first innings. Penrith skipper Ryan Gibson was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3/15. When Penrith hit the crease, they declared on 7/305. Brent Williams was on fire with the bat, smashing an incredible 134. Penrith will aim for three consecutive wins to round out the regular season when they travel to Raby Sports Complex on Saturday to face Campbelltown Camden in One-Day match. A win is vital to their chances of making the Finals.

CRICKET: Penrith have gone down to Sydney in Round 19 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a One-Day match at Drummoyne Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bat. Penrith had a tough day, dismissed for 114 with six overs to spare. Vice-captain Rebecca Cady top scored for the visitors with 39. When Sydney hit the crease, they reached Penrith’s target with six wickets and 14 overs to spare. Elise Noble took 2/30. Despite the loss, Penrith have qualified for the Finals in second position with 10 wins and five losses to their name. They’ll take on Northern District for a spot in the Grand Final this Sunday.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 5 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend with mixed results for Penrith’s SG Ball and Harold Matthews teams. In the SG Ball competition, Penrith went down to the Western Suburbs Magpies 26-22. In the Harold Matthews competition, the Panthers were too strong for the Magpies 22-4. Both sides will face the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Round 6 at BlueBet Stadium.

RUGBY LEAGUE: 7NEWS Sydney has extended their partnership with the Penrith District Rugby League Referees’ Association for another 12 months. This takes the partnership, which has been a huge success for both parties, into its fifth consecutive year. The Association currently has 150 members and covers more than 300 matches each weekend throughout the rugby league season within the Penrith District. This is while also supplying members to officiate in the highest levels of competition for NSWRL and the NRL. Penrith Referees’ Association Chairman, Gary Haines, said he is delighted with the extension of the partnership and grateful for the support received from 7NEWS in promoting grassroots rugby league in western Sydney. 7NEWS Sydney News Director Jason Morrison said: “The Penrith Referees’ Association is a great organisation of men and women who make League happen for thousands of players across Sydney’s greater west. They carry out a tough and essential job, doing it professionally and for the love of the sport and our community. We feel quite honoured to have such a great group of people running on to every field across the region each weekend wearing our 7NEWS logo.”

SOCCER: The Western Sydney Wanderers continue to climb the A-League ladder, defeating the Central Coast Mariners 2-0 last Saturday at CommBank Stadium. The strong win sees the Wanderers move to second on table with seven rounds remaining. Western Sydney will look to continue their winning ways when they fly to Perth to battle the Glory on Friday night.

To make a submission to Around the Grounds, email Nathan@westernweekender. com.au.

Following Round 1 in Newcastle this weekend, Anderson and his team will travel to Brisbane next month before competing in Tasmania, Darwin, Townsville and over in New Zealand to round out the season. Anderson said if he’s going to claim back-toback Aussie Racing Cars championships, he has to not only focus on the task at hand by believe in himself.

“You’ve got to back yourself because the competition is really strong. There’s going to be 40 cars on the grid for Newcastle, so there will be 39 people to beat,” he said.

“I’ve been working too hard to improve. If you don’t improve in any sport, you’re going to get overtaken. I don’t focus on the result. I just focus on doing my job, driving the car as fast as I can and performing under pressure.”

Jamisontown locals can pick the paper up at the following locations

ABCOE

ABEL STREET EATERY (HAPPY HARRYS)

BATT STREET TAKE AWAY

GREY GUMS HOTEL

NEW ON YORK TAKEAWAY

PARRABEY GOURMET

KITCHEN (PENRITH HOMEMAKER)

SALT CAFE (PENRITH HOMEMAKER)

SHELL SERVICE STATION

THE COFFEE CLUB

THREE SUGARS CAFÉ

WESTERN WEEKENDER

YORK TAKEAWAY

ZOO FITNESS

7/11 JAMISONTOWN

NATHAN TAYLOR

Josh Anderson will be back behind the wheel this weekend. Photo: Aussie Racing Cars.

SPORT

Back-to-back title quest – see page 71

Football registration on the rise

Jamison Park, are considered by many to be old, outdated and not female-friendly.

Football teams are filling up fast across the state with Football NSW experiencing its strongest start to its annual registration campaign in 2023.

The Nepean Football Association has recorded a rise in player numbers across its 30 clubs, with registrations up by almost nine per cent on year-to-date numbers.

Women and girls are also driving the boost in local registrations this year, recording a four per cent increase compared to this time last year in the Nepean region.

In the last week of February, Football NSW had recorded 119,244 registered players for the new season, representing a 16 per cent year-to-date increase on 2022 numbers.

The record start to the year comes off the back of a successful Socceroos campaign in Qatar, while excitement continues to build ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup later this year.

This season’s surge in registrations also highlights the need for investment in local football facilities to meet growing demand, according to Football NSW.

The Weekender understands Nepean Football Association’s fields and amenities are struggling to cope with the current use. The amenities at Nepean’s largest football facility,

Nepean Football Association is one of the few associations that do not have a dedicated home of football to service their nearly 12,000 members.

Nepean Football Association is the 10th largest football association in NSW and includes the Nepean Representative Football Club (Nepean FC) and Nepean Referees Group (NRG). They also have three clubs who provide all abilities football activities.

The local association is calling on the Penrith candidates to commit to funding the much-needed lighting project ahead of the upcoming State Election, to ensure the future of community football in the region.

“We are thrilled to see such a massive increase in the number of registered players but the amenities at Jamison Park are not female-friendly or fit-for-purpose. Without upgraded facilities we run the risk of providing a poor experience for new players,” Nepean Football Association CEO, Linda Cerone said. “Amenity buildings are fundamental for football grounds. A clubhouse and canteen provide the infrastructure to store equipment, serve food, beverages, conduct administration and provide a home for the association.

“Nepean Football Association is calling on the candidates for Penrith to commit to funding these much-needed upgrades.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Nepean Football Association players Lu-Anne, Maddison, Maddison, Kiahna and Abbey.