Western Weekender May 19

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GROUNDBREAKING

Construction on a retirement living development tipped to set a new standard in western Sydney officially got underway on Tuesday. ‘The Royce’ will be located inside the Penrith Panthers complex and wears the name of legendary rugby league player Royce Simmons. The project will provide some 150 jobs during the construction phase and will help cater for an ageing local population. Read the full story on page 7 Bianca Tulich, Emma Husar, David O’Neill, Royce Simmons, Stuart Ayres and Tricia Hitchen

FURIOUS FOLEY Anger over new M4 toll See page 3

RELIEF FOR PANTHERS Now they need to beat Knights See Extra Time

MEET THE PRESIDENT Penrith Baseball Club is on the rise See pages 74-75

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the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

State Politics

Anger builds as return of toll nears “He will lose his seat”: Opposition Leader Luke Foley’s stark warning to Penrith MP Stuart Ayres EMILY NEWTON

ver 10,000 western Sydney residents have voiced their anger about the reintroduction of tolls on the M4 between Parramatta and Homebush by signing a petition opposing the new charge.

Opposition Leader Luke Foley and Londonderry MP Prue Car will present the growing petition to State Parliament next week, to force a debate on the issue.

Last Friday, Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for WestConnex and Penrith MP Stuart Ayres said tolling will be implemented on the M4 following a one month toll-free period. Tolls were removed from the motorway seven years ago.

“Communities across western Sydney want answers on this,” Ms Car said.

“They’re angry and furious about the fact that they’ve already paid for that part of the road, and they’re going to be paying through the nose for 43 years into the future.”

Mr Foley said that the reintroduction of the toll was unfairly targeted at western Sydney motorists as regular M4 users will face a one-way toll of $4.56, which amounts to $2,188 a year for a motorist

O

travelling to and from work each day, and will force financially struggling drivers onto Parramatta Road and the Great Western Highway.

“We learned on Friday that it’s not even going to start at the $4.21 they promised, it’s now going to start at $4.56,” he said.

“You’ve got wages growth running between one and two per cent, yet you’re going to have this toll reintroduced at $4.56 each way and then going up by one per cent every quarter, four per cent every year all the way out for the next 43 years.”

Both Ms Car and Mr Foley have pleaded to Mr Ayres to listen to the people of western Sydney.

“I think people in this part of the world feel really betrayed by Stuart Ayres on this issue,” Ms Car said.

“He’s got to listen to the people. Stuart Ayres will lose his seat unless he wakes up and listens here,” Mr Foley added.

Mr Ayres was quick to bite back, saying that Labor had 16 years to finish the M4 and instead ignored Penrith.

“Once WestConnex is complete you will be able to travel from Penrith to the ANZAC Bridge without passing a set of traffic lights,” Mr Ayres said.

He said Labor was too busy talking about roads, while the Liberals were fixing them.

NSW Opposition Leader Luke Foley visited St Marys with Londonderry MP Prue Car to express their anger about the reintroduction of M4 tolls. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Sorry Bill, we all have to pay Opposition Leader Bill Shorten probably thought he was on a winner when he announced in his Budget reply that only people earning over $87,000 would have to cop an increase to the Medicare Levy to help fully fund the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

But the Labor leader clearly hadn’t felt the vibe of the public in the days following Scott Morrison’s Budget last Tuesday.

There was very little complaint from the wider community about the Budget measure, and an acceptance that for a scheme as large and as comprehensive as the NDIS, we all have to pay.

For Shorten to declare that we should all have access to the NDIS if needed, but only those earning above a certain figure should pay for it, is cheap and petty politics aimed at trying to ensure Labor looks like it’s fighting for the little guy.

It also opens up a whole other debate – does Shorten think that somebody earning $87,000 is “rich”?

The NDIS shouldn’t be about wealthy or poor. It shouldn’t be about class, where you live or how much you earn.

But deciding that those in the top two tax brackets can afford to cop an increase in the Medicare Levy, but those in the bottom three cannot, is making the NDIS funding model too much about what people earn instead of what they deserve.

It is creating a class war where one does not need to exist. If it’s so important, we all should be paying for it.

The NDIS should be about ensuring every single Australian can access the support and funding they need should they be in the challenging position of requiring the system now or in the future.

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The Government’s measure to have us all pay for it, via a modest 0.5 increase to the Medicare Levy, is a fair and acceptable way to ensure the money for such an important roll-out is available.

There is a whole other debate to be had about whether the NDIS is being rolled out effectively, and horror stories are slowly starting to emerge.

But as for putting our hands in our pocket to fund it, I can’t find too many people who disagree with Scott Morrison’s announcement last week.

Apart from Bill Shorten, of course.

New charge will take its toll I certainly understand the anger surrounding the reintroduction of the toll on the M4, but I also accept that we need to pay for such significant infrastructure somehow.

However, a $4.56 charge each way for motorists for the Parramatta to Home-

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bush section seems not only excessive, but financially crippling for many struggling families.

It adds more than $2000 a year to the family budget if someone is driving to work each day and needs to use the M4.

The one month grace period is a slap in the face to motorists who have put up with months and months of delays and construction work on the M4.

And let’s not forget that $4.56 is just the start of the pain. We’re set to pay $3.95 to travel on the M4 East from Homebush to Haberfield when the project is complete in 2019.

We all accept that the M4 needed to be fixed. But the entire concept of the WestConnex risks becoming a white elephant reminiscent of the Cross City Tunnel debacle, with motorists choosing to take back streets and the toll-free routes such as Parramatta Road.

Luke Foley is playing politics when he says Stuart Ayres may lose his seat over this issue (see page three of today’s paper), but from what I’m hearing in the community, the anger towards the State Government over this issue is rising.

It’ll reach fever pitch once the toll bills start rolling in before the end of the year.

Why the interest in Cocaine Cassie?

I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t really care less about Cassie Sainsbury and the trouble she’s got herself into overseas.

Exactly why do our major television networks shell out such huge cash to cover these stories, essentially allowing people to benefit (albeit indirectly) from crimes? Will this really rate?

It just doesn’t sit well with me.

Entertainment ................49-60 Your Life.................................61-68 Business Directory.......69-72

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Bill Shorten’s class war not needed

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Editor’s Desk

Sport ........................................73-80

Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Journalists: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Kate Reid | @kate_reid6 Emily Newton | @emmerleener Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Photographers: Melinda Jane, Megan Dunn If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

Issue 1303

Sales Executives: Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Daniel Vella, Katie Grasso, Jess Gilarte, Chantelle Lang

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au

To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au

Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au

Production Manager: Irene Adams | irene.adams@westernweekender.com.au

Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group

Production: Maddy Searle, Ian Beard

CIRCULATION: 58,135

Administration: Karlee Hansen, Sabina Pichler

[CAB Audit September 2016]

Residents vow to save beloved parks Penrith Council to continue consulting with residents about the future of recreational spaces EMILY NEWTON

outh Penrith residents have four words for Penrith Council – “hands off our park”.

The response follows Council’s consultation with the community about recreation spaces in Jamisontown and South Penrith, and the possibility of selling surplus lands, and then investing funds into improving recreational areas in the suburbs.

Speaking on behalf of angry and disappointed residents, Margaret Grand said she feared for Samuel Foster Drive Reserve’s future in South Penrith.

“I live across the road from the park. This is how you boil a frog,” she said.

“They take a little bit here, and a little bit more there.”

Ms Grand said Council are looking at whether the park is under-utilised, or ecologically unsound.

She said the park is neither.

“You’ve got all of those people using the park for informal activities,” she said.

“St Mary MacKillop Primary use the park for the Cross Country, they also use it for other sporting activities.

“Families go there and fly kites, families go there and have picnics.

S

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Council

South Penrith residents don’t want any development to take place at Samuel Foster Reserve. Photo: Melinda Jane “We just want to be able to go into the park and have informal fun with our kids and grandkids.”

A former native parrot breeder, Ms Grand said the park is home to the endangered Eastern Rosella as well as the Red-tailed black cockatoo and the Tawny Frogmouth.

Council said they are only in the process of consulting with the community about any changes that might happen.

“We are at a very early stage of a conversation with the community about the areas of high value where reinvestment could be a benefit for the community, and those areas that are not as well valued or used,” a Council spokesperson said.

“There is no plan to sell either Robinson Park or Samuel Foster Drive Reserve.

However, if the community accepts this proposal, these spaces could benefit from

quality improvements funded by the project.”

Council is holding another information session on Saturday, May 20 at Robinson Park in Jamisontown where residents can provide their feedback.

Residents are also encouraged to complete the survey online at www. yoursaypenrith.com.au/PublicOpenSpaceReinvestmentProject.

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Penrith mum denies abuse after toddler consumes illicit drugs EMILY NEWTON

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36-year-old woman from South Penrith has pleaded not guilty to child neglect after a toddler was found to have consumed illicit drugs while in her care.

The incident occurred on December 8 last year when the two-year-old boy was taken to Nepean Hospital where doctors were told the woman’s son had consumed paint thinner at a home on Chesterfield Road, South Penrith.

The child was airlifted to Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick a short time later after his condition deteriorated.

Forensic analysis and pathology testing revealed the child had consumed illicit drugs.

Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse Squad commenced an investigation and executed a search warrant at the home, where a number of items were seized.

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Following extensive investigations, detectives arrested the 36-year-old woman at Penrith Police Station on Friday, May 5.

She was charged with two counts of ‘neglect child in care’, and ‘fail to provide for child cause danger of death’.

The woman appeared at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 16 where her matter was adjourned to July 14.

A spokesperson for Family and Community Services (FACS) said staff were “deeply troubled” to hear of the incident.

“The key priority for FACS is to always act in the interest of the safety and wellbeing of children. FACS is committed to working with agency partners to ensure appropriate support and services are provided to children and their families,” the spokesperson said.

Anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or exploitation should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111.

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Help available for heritage properties Penrith Council is offering a helping hand for repairs and maintenance to owners, tenants and not for profit organisations responsible for heritage listed properties and locations.

Applications are open until June 5 for Heritage Assistance Fund Grants, which Council provides to help protect and boost Penrith’s valuable and unique cultural heritage. Call 4732 7777.

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Penrith’s new era in retirement living Panthers answers the call of an ageing population as construction begins on new housing development TROY DODDS

onstruction on one of the biggest retirement developments in Penrith’s history is now officially underway.

A special ground breaking event was held on Tuesday at the future site of The Royce at the Penrith Panthers complex on Mulgoa Road.

The development is a collaboration between Tulich and Panthers, and carries the name of legendary Penrith rugby league player and 1991 premiership winner, Royce Simmons.

Stage one of the development features 52 independent living apartments, 128 residential aged care rooms including a dementia care wing and five star community spaces. The development will incorporate a new movie theatre, day spa, hair and beauty salon, library and other retail and hospitality offerings.

Penrith Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen, Federal Lindsay MP Emma Husar and State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres all helped kick off construction on Tuesday. “Penrith is quite literally growing up and maturing before our very eyes,� Mr Ayres said.

C

Royce Simmons helps launch construction of The Royce on Tuesday.

Photo: Melinda Jane

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“The capacity for this club to be investing in seniors living is a reflection of the fact that this club recognises what is happening in its community and it wants to be able to invest in the community as well.�

Development of The Royce will see the creation of 150 jobs during the building process, and as many as 100 ongoing jobs once the project is completed.

Brand Ambassador Royce Simmons spoke of the many recreation options that will be available to residents, and said he was proud to have his name attached to the development. “What you are going to get here is unbelievable,� he said. “I love mixing with the Penrith people so I’m absolutely honoured to be the Ambassador of The Royce.�

Panthers Chairman David O’Neill said The Royce would become western Sydney’s “most envied retirement facility�. “The Royce retirement living development is a major part of the evolution of Panthers,� he said. “With over 40 per cent of our members over the age of 55, it’s important to us that we think outside the square and provide them with a facility that goes beyond the traditional club experience.�

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 19, 2017

Development

7

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

PENRITH

NEWS

GET THE BEST CARE AND EDUCATION FOR YOUR CHILD Places available - enrol now

CONTACT US

4732 7844 penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

ADMINISTRATION Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri. P: 4732 7777 F: 4732 7958 Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751.

E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

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

Graffiti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

MEETING DATES Council Meetings 22 May 2017 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting) 10 July 2017 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au visitpenrith.com.au

Road Names

COUNCIL BRIEFS ● Council has been pushing hard to see more government jobs in our City and we’re really proud Penrith will be the training ground for Australia’s best fire and rescue personnel.

When complete the facility at Erskine Park will employ around 150 staff and see up to 200 additional firefighters and trainees on site on any given day.

This will be a great boost for our local economy and further cements Penrith’s place as an important Regional City and the heart of the New West. ● Be the first to know about upcoming events, fun things to do and interesting places to see in Penrith. The ‘What’s On’ e-newsletter delivers ideas and inspiration straight to your inbox each month.

To subscribe head to visitpenrith/newsletter or email tourism@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au ● There has never been a better time to join Penrith City Library with an increased suite of material and services at your fingertips, including eBooks and eMagazines accessible from home or office.

It’s always been free to join for anyone who lives, works or studies in our City. The Penrith City Library service comprises a Central Library at Penrith and two branch libraries at St Marys and St Clair. ● Receive the latest sustainability workshops, events, news and other things of interest straight into your inbox. Simply sign up to Council’s Sustainability eNews by emailing andrew.hewson@penrith.city

hereby given that an application has been received for the naming of the following road/s.

NAME Cashmere Road Galloway Road Corridale Road Hereford Avenue Shorthorn Crescent Randall Lane Pinewood Avenue Dorper Crescent Shetland Avenue Charbray Avenue Texel Lane

LOCATION Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park Glenmore Park

For further information please contact Mrs Cindye Russell on 4732 7617.

Permanent Road Closure of Caddens Road, Caddens On Monday, 22 May 2017, the section of Caddens Road between O’Connell Lane and Mariposa Circuit, Caddens will be permanently closed to through traffic. The closure relates to vehicle traffic, with full pedestrian and cyclist access retained.

The closure was planned for as part of the original Master Plan for the Caddens development area. This closure provides a safe alternative route to Caddens Road via Cadda Ridge Drive and

PUBLIC NOTICES

O’Connell Lane as both roads have been designed appropriately to accommodate the anticipated traffic.

Community Access Bus and Wheelchair Access Bus

Initially, water-filled barriers will be established to close the road between O’Connell Lane and Mariposa Circuit, Caddens

Applications are now being called for the use of the Community access buses in Penrith City for the period 1 July–30 September 2017.

and Variable Message Signs will be placed on the eastern and western approaches on Caddens Road alerting/directing traffic.

Applications must be received no later than Friday, 2 June 2017.

These applications will be assessed by Council and applicants will be notified of the outcome.

For further information regarding fees, application forms and conditions of hire, please call 4732 7837.

8

Pursuant to Clause 7 of the Roads Regulation 2008, notice is

After this time, physical works will start in order to facilitate the permanent closure.

Should you have any enquiries relating to this closure, please email council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au or contact Council’s Traffic Administration Officer on 4732 7998.

facebook.com/penrith.city.council

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

visitpenrith.com.au WW28130

Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Our-Council/

Proposed Adoption of Policy for Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillors

Tenders/ to register and download tender

Lots 17–20 DP 27391 (Nos. 2–8) Lethbridge

documents free of charge. Alternatively a hard copy

Street, Penrith

is available for a non-refundable fee of $75 (inc

Demolition of existing structures and construction

GST) by arrangement.

of 6-storey residential flat development containing

For queries please contact Laura Stott on 4732 8282

60 apartments and 2 levels of basement car

or procurement@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

parking

Under the Local Government Act 1993 Council is required to review and adopt its Policy for the

All submissions should be lodged on the forms

Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to

provided in accordance with the lodgement

Councillors within the first 12 months of each term

instructions contained in the documents no later

of Council. Section 253 of the Local Government Act 1993 also requires that public notice of the proposed adoption of the policy be given.

The proposed policy is now on public exhibition and may be viewed at Council’s offices during normal business hours until Friday, 16 June 2017. Copies may also be obtained from Council’s website or by

s Morson Group Pty Ltd

DA16/0182

INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT

than 11am Wednesday, 14 June 2017 (‘the Closing Date’).Tenders received after will not be considered.

Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION

consent authority for the development application is Penrith City Council. s Paynter Dixon Constructions

DA17/0370

contacting Adam Beggs on 4732 7597 or email

The following development application has been

Lot 1 DP 132721 (Nos. 47–49) Rance Road,

abeggs@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

received by Council:

Werrington

Submissions on the proposed policy are invited and

s Pretech Pty Ltd

will be received by Council until 5pm on Friday,

DA17/0359

Construction of a new shed for storage, alterations

317–319 Great Western Highway & 30 King

and additions to existing building and construction

to the General Manager and can be mailed to

Street, St Marys

of associated driveways, parking area, landscaping

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or emailed to

Construction of a 2-storey multi-unit development

and civil works

council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

comprising of 12 dwellings

Lease of Part Lot 92 DP 1136991

Contact: Mahbub Alam on 4732 7693

Notification under Section 47A – Local

Closing Date: 2 June 2017

16 June 2017. Submissions should be addressed

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service – Rural Fires Act 1997.

The Development Application referred to in this

Government Act 1993

Plans of Management and is currently vacant.

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED

Roads and Maritime Services have requested Council

Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning

office hours, in the period from 19 May 2017 to

grant them a lease over the above mentioned site

& Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications

2 June 2017.

The site located on Part Lot 92 DP1136991 is classified as ‘Community’ land under Council’s

for the purpose of installation of traffic signal posts.

recently determined by Penrith City Council.

Roads and Maritime Servces have requested

notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make

Details of these determinations are available for

a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in

for a minimum of one (1) year or until the project is

public inspection free of charge during Council’s

relation to the Development Application. Where a

completed under Section 47A of the Local

normal business hours at the Civic Centre,

submission is made by way of an objection, the

Government Act 1993.

601 High Street, Penrith.

grounds of objection are to be specified in the

Submissions in writing may be made to Council

Approved Development Application

submission. The submission is to include Council’s

Council consider their application to occupy this site

concerning this proposal within twenty-eight (28) days from the date of this notification and addressed to Penrith City Council, C/– Property Development Department, PO Box 60, Penrith 2750.

For further information, please call Alison Randall on 4732 8510.

reference number DA17/0370.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please

s Stimson & Baker Planning

DA16/1011

Construction of Toilet Amenities and Associated Works

Viewing of Development Applications

Highway, Emu Plains

construction of function centre, commercial kitchen and associated works

Reference 16/17-20

Refused Development Applications

Penrith City Council invites Tenders from suitably

s Morson Group Pty Ltd

qualified and experienced contractors with for the Construction of Public Toilet Amenities, Demolition and Associated Works at Dukes Oval, Emu Plains,

contact Lauren Van Etten on 4732 8222.

Lot 2 DP 614436 (Nos. 2–26) Great Western

Adaptive re-use of Emu Hall as restaurant,

TENDER

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Public Notices (cont.)

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ DATracker. Alternatively the applications can be viewed during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

DA16/0521

Lot 3 DP 27391, Lot 4 DP 27391, Lot 5 DP 27391 (No. 32) Lethbridge Street, Penrith

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or

and Smith Park, Castlereagh.

Demolition of existing structures and construction

gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning

Pre-Tender Briefing at 2pm Wednesday,

of 6-storey residential flat building containing 43

application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit

31 May 2017.

apartments and basement car parking

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

visitpenrith.com.au WW28131

9

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN my Penrith

Turning back time

The October 31, 1957 edition of The Nepean Times carries a front page story about a decision to form a greyhound racing club in Penrith. John McLeary was appointed Chairman of the new committee to work towards the foundation of the club.

prize cupboard

U

Jocelyn Marrian

nleash your inner geek at Supanova Comic Con & Gaming Expo this June.

Pop culture fans will be in heaven as they celebrate the worlds of film, TV, comic books, fantasy, anime, sci-fi and gaming.

Rub shoulders with celebrities including ‘Back To The Future’ star Christopher Lloyd and Superman Dean Cain; pick up some new skills with creative master classes; test yourself in a range of tournaments or check out the stalls to grab some pop culture goodies.

If you love cosplay then head along on Friday night from 5pm as Supanova attempts to grab the Guinness World Records title for largest gathering of people dressed as Star Wars characters.

Supanova will be on at the Sydney Showground at Olympic Park from Friday, June 16 to Sunday, June 18. For more information, visit www.supanova.com.au.

The Weekender has two double weekend passes to Supanova to give away. For your chance to win one, email the code word ‘SUPANOVA’ to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with your name and contact details. Entries close Thursday, May 25. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/17/01416. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au.

Penrith FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Happy Inn Chinese Restaurant, it’s so close for lunch and great for dinner for those late night meetings.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Fred’s Café and Nepean River Coffee Club.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Penrith Panthers Leagues Club when we watch the football – go the mighty Panthers!

FAVOURITE PLACE TO RELAX IN PENRITH? The Nepean River, as a family we enjoy water skiing, swimming, kayaking and walks around the river.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? Even though we have been growing as a community there is still the values and feel of a country town as people still say ‘hi’ and good morning when you walk down the street.

Congratulations to Penrith local and veteran Bank of Queensland employee Drew Clegg, who married his partner Rebecca earlier this month. The pair are now enjoying their honeymoon.

6pm news bulletins seem to love pointless live crosses, but Channel Nine took the cake this week. They did a live cross to a ‘helicopter lands at Maccas’ story more than 24 hours after the incident!

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TAKE A NUMBER

50 Over 50,000 children across the country are expected to take part in a Red Nose Day fundraising disco this June. Childcare centres can purchase their entry pack online now at rednoseday. com.au.

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the western weekender Âť Friday, May 19, 2017

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Federal Politics

Cracks begin to appear in NDIS as locals express frustration at roll-out Forum highlights ongoing issues that are leaving local residents fed up and frustrated with Government EMILY NEWTON

s the roll-out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) continues, a forum hosted

by Member for Lindsay Emma Husar on Tuesday has highlighted the dissatisfaction of community members, saying people aren’t getting what they need.

Attended by Shadow Minister for Families and Social Services, Jenny Macklin, the forum was filled with over 50 people who shared their experience of the NDIS, the majority of which were negative.

Speaking to the Weekender, Ms Macklin said the forum raised many concerns for the area.

“Some of the concerns, I’m sorry to say, are very basic, and it’s really important that people are able to get through on the phone and when they go to the office they need to be able to see people,” she said.

“People are very frustrated about their plans being done over the phone, things being rushed, long delays and having to wait too long.”

Imploring empathy, Ms Macklin suggested during the forum that flexibility and understanding was needed as some problems have been made because NDIA staff are newly trained and “learning by their mistakes”.

But one resident refused to accept this.

“I don’t give in to the fact that we need to be understanding because they are new,” the resident said.

“If I need my car serviced, I wouldn’t take it to a butcher.”

His outburst was met with a chorus of agreement from the audience and nods of understanding from Ms Husar.

Another resident shared their story of NDIA staff making decisions about

A

Shadow Minister for Families and Social Services Jenny Macklin and Member for Lindsay Emma Husar spoke to members of the community at an NDIS forum on Tuesday. Photo: Melinda Jane

“Western Sydney has been the loser in the NDIS”

his lifestyle over the phone, despite not understanding the extent of his disability.

“Someone who doesn’t know me, who has never met me, is making these decisions,” he said.

“The NDIS is about creating a social change, but we seem to be putting more pressure on people in this change over process.”

After numerous recounts of staff not returning calls and residents feeling

“stuck,” many agreed that the NDIS is too focused on achieving KPIs, disregarding the humanity of the client.

“Western Sydney has been the loser in the NDIS,” another resident said.

Ms Husar said the NDIS is a once in a generation reform that she is committed to advocating for.

“It’s really important that we get the NDIS right. The problems that we are having do need to be addressed,” she said.

Council

A sign of Penrith’s tourism potential ALENA HIGGINS

push to cement Penrith as the adventure capital of Sydney is underway, with Council agreeing to back a bid for road signage to promote the region’s newest attraction, Skypeak Adventures.

Established in July last year, the multimillion dollar aerial adventure park is keen to extend its reach and is willing to pay to have a sign installed, ideally along the M4 or M7.

But before it can do that, it needs the green light from the Tourist Attraction Signposting Assessment Committee (TASAC), an arm of Destination NSW. CEO and Founder, Amgad Botros, conceded it may be a difficult feat, with

A

12

the State Government body requiring that very specific criteria be met.

“80 per cent of our customers are driving for an hour to get to us,” he said.

“We’re definitely a world-leading experience and city destination and no different to Wet’n’Wild and other major attractions in Sydney – we just happen to be in St Marys.

“It is the only one of its kind in Sydney and the combination of activities makes it a unique international experience.”

Councillor Aaron Duke said writing a letter of support, which Skypeak can include in its application to TASAC, aligned with Council’s strategy to market the area as the adventure capital of Sydney.

“I think we need to really be promoting it as much as we can and attracting tourism from outside the city,” Cr Duke said.

Skypeak Adventures CEO Amgad Botros

“The more we can do to promote Skypeak the better.”

Mr Botros said both Londonderry MP Prue Car and Penrith Council have been “tremendous supporters” of the outdoor adventure attraction, which features more than 50 aerial challenges, including aerial crossings, free falls and zip lines.

“A letter of support from Council will be enormously helpful,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity to sell what western Sydney has to offer.”

Not only a fun attraction for families and adults alike, Skypeak also offers a local destination for school leadership and development programs, Mr Botros added.

“At the moment, the next best thing is two to three hours drive away, and a lot of public students and parents can’t afford that,” he said.

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Your new home and retirement lifestyle at Caddens Village New 1, 2 and 3 bedroom villas releasing late July. Previous stages sold quickly. Join our Priority Register to be invited to our July sales launch.

Located just 3km from Penrith, close to shops and public transport, this pet-friendly village offers a wonderful retirement lifestyle with pool, gym, bowling green and more, all provided by a caring, Christian, not-for-profit organisation. Residential care also onsite.

Don’t delay! Make an appointment to view our display suite and explore Caddens village. Be sure to join our Priority Register so you don’t miss out on reserving a villa at the July sales launch.

Call 1300 111 278 (Mon to Fri, 8am to 8pm) or visit anglicare.org.au/caddens

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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Magistrate doubts man’s story as he considers sentence

A man caught with two shotguns in the boot of his car has been left holding his breath after he was told parts of his testimony were “hard to believe”.

Patrick James Barde faced Penrith District Court for a sentence hearing last Thursday, after previously pleading guilty to two counts of ‘possessing unathorised firearm without permit or licence’.

During his evidence, the offender told the court he took the guns – a pump action and sawed-off shotgun – from a friend who was giving them away, and intended to use them to go hunting on his family’s property just outside Mudgee.

But Judge Stephen Hanley said it was “a bit ludicrous” to be using a sawed-off shotgun for hunting.

Barde contended it was more for the “fun factor” and insisted he wasn’t thinking rationally at the time due to his heavy drug use.

But the Crown prosecutor also challenged this notion, pointing out Barde was still classified as “obese” at the time of the offence, despite claiming to be suffering from a significant ‘ice’ addiction.

“You had a $1,000 a week ice habit and yet you were still quite a large man,” she said during cross examination.

“I’m very surprised it didn’t affect me in that way,” he responded.

She said even more puzzling, was his testimony that he was able to give up out of “sheer perseverance”.

“It just doesn’t add up,” she told Judge Hanley during her submissions.

“He stopped using without any help – that’s remarkable or it’s false.

“There may have been dabbling in a recreational sense, rather than someone within the grips of an ice addiction. It is more consistent with someone supplying drugs for profit... a user/dealer.”

Judge Hanley echoed the prosecution’s sentiments, saying he had seen drug addicts since 1977 and Barde’s evidence “stretches credibility”.

“I find this really hard to believe,” he said.

“I feel like someone is pulling on my legs.”

But Barde’s lawyer urged Judge Hanley to accept his client’s version, noting a police officer’s statement in which they told Barde his “eyes look like pit holes in the sun”.

He also confirmed the guns were not in easy reach, challenging the prosecution’s assertion that they were used for protection.

“Car parts were on top of the guns, he couldn’t run around and quickly grab the guns in an emergency situation to protect the drugs,” counsel said.

In light of the evidence, the Crown prosecutor suggested the offender’s prospects of rehabilitation be treated cautiously.

“His rehabilitation is predicated on the fact that he is able to resist the compulsion to use,” she said.

“It’s not as impressive as it sounds if he didn’t have an addiction in the first place.”

The judgement was due to be handed down yesterday (Thursday, May 18).

Man says he didn’t understand the seriousness of suspension

A man busted driving while suspended three times in quick succession has claimed he was unaware of the gravity of the offence.

John Taylor Leaf’s lawyer told Penrith Local Court the 22-year-old had severely underestimated the repercussions.

“He simply did not realise how serious the offending was that he was engaging in,” she said.

The court heard Mr Leaf was first caught during a random breath test on his way to work, while the second time he was nabbed after parking on a footpath while he went to get some lunch.

“Not once but twice [police] told you to stay out of a motor vehicle,” an incredulous Magistrate Stephen Corry said.

“You don’t even have a full licence!

You’re on a learner’s permit and shouldn’t even be near a vehicle without a licenced driver. You either learn... or you drive yourself to jail.”

He was convicted, fined $600, disqualified for two years and ordered to enter into two good behaviour bonds for 12 months.

Community service for spitting in woman’s face

A woman who spat at another woman’s face has been ordered to undertake 75 hours of community work as punishment for the offence.

Magistrate Karen Robinson strongly denounced the behaviour, telling Shannon Kokoc she considered the crime to be one of the most serious assaults you could ever commit.

“This woman was simply going about her business,” she said.

“You spat in her face and it landed on her face.”

Despite her limited criminal history, she was ordered to undertake 75 hours of unpaid work.

Man lost his job after drink driving incident in Penrith

Matthew Patrick Baker has been stripped of his licence for six months despite “very persuasive submissions” from his lawyer.

The Penrith man appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday to be sentenced for mid-range drink driving.

The court heard the 30-year-old was driving his work van near Union Lane when he veered onto the other side of the road to avoid a queue of traffic, coming under notice of highway patrol.

His lawyer strongly urged Magistrate James Gibson to dismiss the charge without proceeding to conviction, citing Mr Baker’s good character and the fact he had already suffered extra-curial punishment since being fired from his job.

But despite some compelling arguments, Magistrate Gibson found the

father-of-two’s previous traffic record waived his right to that amount of leniency, even though his reading was towards the lower end of mid-range.

He disagreed that there were no aggravating features, saying the fact he crossed onto the wrong side of the road to effect a right-hand turn to avoid banked up traffic was an example of erratic driving.

He acknowledged the accomplished sportsman was “clearly a person of good character” before determining to reduce the disqualification period to the minimum.

Mr Baker was convicted, fined $400 and banned from driving for six months.

Man cops suspended sentence over drink driving charge

Nathan John Young has been hit with a suspended sentence after pleading guilty to drink driving.

The 42-year-old faced Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with midrange drink driving and possessing a prohibited drug.

Magistrate Karen Robinson found she was unable to extend the father-of-two leniency given the objective seriousness of the offence and his previous history.

“You were driving at the time and you don’t have a licence,” she told the Lplater, “and you were seen to be driving in such a way that you were pulled over.”

He was convicted, sentenced to a fourmonth suspended jail term and disqualified from driving for nine months.

Drink driver ordered off the roads; hit with $700 fine

A man caught drink driving after he was nabbed going through an amber traffic light has been warned he faces jail time if he repeats the offence.

Warren Leslie Kuschert was stopped about 400 metres from a licenced establishment and subsequently failed a breath test.

He was fined $700 and barred from driving for six months.

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St Marys: Service station thief escapes with bag of cash

Police are appealing for help after a man armed with a taser robbed a service station on the Great Western Highway in St Marys.

At about 3.50am on Sunday, May 14 a man attended the location, but left a short time later. He returned at 4.20am and knocked on the door, entered and walked up to the counter.

It is alleged he pulled out of his pocket an item described as a taser and demanded that the 24-year-old attendant open the till and give him money.

The attendant put a sum of money into a bag that the man has then grabbed. He then ran from the store.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Caddens: Police find weapons and Capsicum Spray in search

A search warrant has located numerous firearms and weapons at a residence in Caddens last week.

At about 7pm on Tuesday, May 9, police were called to a domestic incident at Barnea Ave, Caddens where they spoke to a 21-year-old South Penrith woman.

It is alleged that information was supplied to police in relation to an assault upon her by her ex-partner, the 36-yearold resident.

Police applied for a search warrant which was granted and executed a short time later.

When officers entered the location they had a conversation with the 36-year-old and searched the house.

They located numerous firearms and firearm parts, a taser, a sling shot, two cans of Oleoresin Capsicum Spray and a butterfly knife.

The man was charged with ‘Common assault’, four counts of ‘Possess unauthorised pistol’ and five counts of ‘Possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit’.

with Daniel McKinnon

St Marys: Teenager charged after business break-in

An 18-year-old was arrested after breaking into a business on Christie Street, St Marys that had 24 hour security monitoring. The break and enter occurred between 9.45pm and 1.00am on Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7.

At about 2.15pm on Tuesday, May 9, police executed a search warrant at an address in Gidley Street, St Marys, after information was received.

It is alleged police entered the location and located an 18-year-old who was arrested and charged with ‘Break and enter intend to commit serious indictable offence’.

Following a search of the location, officers found numerous items that are alleged to have been stolen from the Christie Street, St Marys premises.

Cranebrook: Man arrested after search of vehicle

Police have discovered a quantity of pistol ammunition following a vehicle stop in Cranebrook.

On Tuesday, May 9 at about 3.20pm police officers were on Sherringham Road when they conducted a search of a vehicle where they found the ammunition.

As a result, a 33-year-old male from North St Marys was arrested and conveyed to Penrith Police Station.

Police also located an amount of prohibited drugs on his person believed to be methamphetamine.

He was subsequently charged.

Cranebrook: Woman had taser disguised as knuckle duster

A taser disguised as a knuckle duster was found in Cranebrook last week.

On Thursday, May 11 police stopped a motor vehicle at 1.45pm on Sherringham Road. A 45-year-old woman from Cranebrook was arrested after police located the taser that was shaped as a knuckle duster in her possession.

She was subsequently charged.

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Good news for buyers Although the Budget is not specifically a “legal” issue, it does often have impacts on the property market which is of great interest to us as a lot of the work we do is buying and selling residential and commercial real estate on behalf of our clients.

The 2017 Federal Budget has now been handed down with an interesting incentive for first home buyers.

Assuming all of the Budget measures are passed, first home buyers will be able to use voluntary contributions to their superannuation to save for a house deposit. This means that legislation will be drafted to enable people to contribute a maximum of $15,000 per year up to a maximum of $30,000 total, at concessional tax rates to be used for the purchase of their first home.

Interestingly, both members of a couple will be able to take advantage of the scheme.

The Budget also introduces new restrictions on foreign property owners meaning that they will now have to pay capital gains tax when they sell their property, even if it is their main residence.

Foreign ownership in new developments will also be capped at 50 per cent and there will also be additional charges for foreign investors whose properties

are left vacant, as well as increases to their application fees.

This may take some sting out of ever growing Sydney property prices as the market becomes less attractive to foreign investors, increasing supply and putting downward pressure on prices.

Neither of these measures however achieve anything in relation to the high costs of stamp duty for first home buyers or the fact that the First Home Owners Grant is restricted to the purchase of brand new properties. First home buyers will be hoping that the State Government follows the Federal Government’s lead in reducing or removing the stamp duty burden on first home buyers and making changes to the first home owners grant so that it is available to first home buyers for both brand new and existing properties.

When the State Government abolished the stamp duty exemption and First Home Owner’s Grant for existing properties, it said that its purpose was to stimulate the construction industry.

This was a political furphy however, as the New South Wales Home Builders Bonus already existed at that time which provided stamp duty exemptions and concessions for the purchase of new homes, off the plan homes and vacant land in New South Wales.

Security officers assaulted during fight Two brothers have been charged after getting into a fight with security staff at the Aussie Arms Hotel last weekend.

At 11.40pm on Saturday, May 13 the brothers, affected by alcohol, were

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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Trucks and drivers targeted as police crack down on safety

One of the trucks that was targeted last week EMILY NEWTON

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olice have cracked down on dangerous vehicles in the local area following an operation in St Marys last week.

Beginning at 6am on Wednesday, May 10, officers from the Joint Traffic Task Force targeted heavy vehicles as part of Operation Cartman.

A driver tested positive for drugs, another was found driving with a

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cancelled licence and police issued 22 defect notices.

Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy of the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, said the operations ensure the safety of all road users.

“Today, we issued 27 infringements and handed out 22 defect notices for trucks that are not roadworthy,” he said.

“This indicates that there is still too many dangerous trucks on our roads and we are not going to stop until they are all off the road.”

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ST MARYS & PENRITH LEISURE CENTRES

Faster care for mental health patients New triage and assessment centre at Nepean Hospital allows for help to be delivered more efficiently EMILY NEWTON

dedicated mental health triage and assessment centre (TAC) has been officially opened at Nepean Hospital this week.

NSW Minister for Mental Health, Tanya Davies, and Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, officially launched the new facility on Tuesday.

The TAC will reduce pressure on the hospital’s emergency department through assistance available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Members of the community in need of mental health care can go directly to the TAC without attending the emergency department, if they do not require urgent medical care for physical injuries or other serious health conditions.

“The centre is staffed with highly skilled nurses, doctors and other health professionals, who can not only assess the patient, but work with them on a health plan and, if required, admit them for in-hospital care,” Mrs Davies said.

“This unique service promises to help thousands of people to access urgent mental health care more easily.”

Mr Ayres said the TAC is dedicated to

A

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, Cathy Crowe, Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies and Brett Billingham opened the centre this week. Photo: Melinda Jane

delivering compassionate care to those who need it most in the community, at any time of the day or night.

“People can walk into the centre without an appointment or be brought to the centre by family, friends, ambulance paramedics, and other emergency services,” he said.

General Manager of Mental Health for the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, Cathy Crowe, said the purposebuilt facility began operating in February this year.

“Importantly we also have peer workers on-site to help guide and support our patients,” she said.

“Our peer workers have all previously received mental health care and have personal insight that is very helpful to our patients.”

The new TAC is part of the multi-million dollar Mental Health building on the Nepean Hospital campus.

It is the latest progressive development of the hospital, following the recently opened Nepean Family Obesity Service, the first of its kind in Australia.

If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Have you used the service? Give us your thoughts by calling 4722 2998.

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Health

MCCARTHY catholic Trade Training Centre offers a flexible schooling experience for Year 11 and 12 students wanting to pursue a career in a vocational field. Get a head start as a Hairdresser, Chef, Electrician, Mechanic, Carpenter, Bricklayer, Metal Fabricator or Early Childhood Educator combined with essential Business and Financial Services training. Contact the college for other opportunities.

There is an opportunity to accelerate your qualifications and be paid as a School Based Apprentice or Trainee as you complete your HSC.

Don’t miss our information night When: Wednesday 24 May from 6.00pm - 7.30pm.

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Attend our information night to choose the right trade for you.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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Fight is on to protect Fernhill

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Council

Shelter needs to find a home

Death Valley: Plan to build cemetery at historic site fails to garner support

Sharon Levy and Annabelle Daniel EMILY NEWTON

he Haven, a community funded shelter set for Penrith, is putting the call out for a suitable property after an incredible community response.

Women’s Community Shelters CEO Annabelle Daniel said there is a local need for the shelter, as more than one in two women who are looking for crisis accommodation in NSW are turned away every day.

“The Penrith LGA has a high proportion of domestic and family violence incidents which the police respond to,” she said.

“We know that local services are desperately overstretched and as soon as we open a shelter here, it will be full.”

Chair of the Board for the shelter, Sharon Levy, said the fundraising target of $25,000 was reached in only five weeks, highlighting the overwhelming support from the local community.

“Our target is to open in November this year, that’s our ultimate goal,” Ms Levy said.

“Unfortunately there is a peak season for domestic violence which is around Christmas, so if we can be up and running by then, we can hopefully meet some of the need that arises at that time.”

Federal Member for Lindsay Emma Husar said she is proud of the community support shown for the initiative after presenting the Board with half the proceeds raised earlier this year.

“One in two women being turned away because we simply don’t have anywhere for them to stay is simply unacceptable,” she said.

The shelter is looking for a property that is suitable for housing up to six women and their children.

To support the shelter, call 0478 451 072 or email admin@womenscommunityshelters.org.au.

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Lisa Harrold is vowing to fight a plan to build a cemetery at Fernhill in Mulgoa. Photo: Melinda Jane ALENA HIGGINS

ierce opposition is mounting against the proposal for a large cemetery at Mulgoa’s Fernhill Estate.

Late last month, Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Trust (RGCRT) announced it had entered into a duediligence process to assess the possibility of purchasing the iconic site.

But local protection groups are up in arms, saying the development would destroy what little remains of a bygone era. President of Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group, Lisa Harrold, said a lawn cemetery was inappropriate for such an important environmental site, which has attracted upwards of $12 million in Commonwealth funding over the years.

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“Not much of western Sydney’s landscape is preserved and we’ve fought hard over the decades to maintain the rural and heritage charm Mulgoa Valley is renowned for,” she said.

“Landholders only have self interest – ‘how much money can I make in this lifetime’... but what does that leave for future generations? Wall-to-wall concreting of western Sydney?”

Under the plan, RGCRT would use 40 per cent of the 383.52-hectare site for cemetery purposes, with the remainder being maintained and protected as heritage parkland.

There would also be a 25 hectare “buffer” around the historic homestead, an RGCRT spokeswoman said.

Mulgoa Progress Association President, Wally Cox, was equally defiant, saying it would oppose any new cemetery.

OF THE WEEK

“Fernhill is of the greatest State heritage significance, both for its historic homestead and its unique colonial landscape,” he said.

Penrith Councillor Bernard Bratusa has called for Councillors to be briefed on land currently approved as suitable for cemeteries and the capacity of existing cemeteries.

“I don’t want to see Mulgoa, Wallacia, some of the most beautiful parts of the city turned into arguably the biggest cemetery in Australia,” he said.

If sold, Fernhill would generate an estimated $60 million for its troubled owners, Adelaide-based Angas Securities, according to the Adelaide Advertiser.

Ms Harrold met with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian last week, pushing for the protection of Fernhill and to ensure it didn’t become a “depot for the dead”.

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19

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Community

Generosity of strangers gets Nathan back on track following a motor vehicle accident 20 years ago, it took a long time for Mr Greenfield to accept the situation he found himself in, and he doubted that he would be able to achieve his goals in life.

“It took me six years to fully adjust to the situation,” he recalled.

“I wouldn’t go out in public or catch public transport. I hid away at home. But one day, I said it doesn’t really matter, it is what it is.”

Despite losing his job, Mr Greenfield said there are no hard feelings and he’s focused on the future.

“It’s a little bit of a blessing in disguise, because I was getting really fatigued and a little bit sick at work,” he said.

“I’m trying to find something a little bit closer to home.”

While his short term goal is to get back into part-time employment, Mr Greenfield has dreams of one day opening up his own multi-centre to help people who might be stuck on the couch like he was following his accident. He wants to pass on the lessons he’s learned.

“We have a lot more to offer and we could give a lot back to the community,” Mr Greenfield said.

“I want to help boost morale and help people do more than what they thought they could do.”

EMILY NEWTON

hen his car engine blew up near Colyton after a medical appointment in January, Nathan Greenfield was down on his luck.

But the kindness of strangers ensured Mr Greenfield wasn’t stuck at home for too long, and went a long way to restoring his faith in humanity.

“I live in Penrith and work in the city,” Mr Greenfield said.

“I lost my job because I had only just recently started it, and it was my only mode of transport.”

On the advice of a friend, he posted about his plight online, and before he knew it, he had strangers donating money and offering help.

“There was a donation for $1,500, they paid for the mechanic themselves,” Mr Greenfield said.

“Most of the donations were from complete strangers, I didn’t even know them.

“It was phenomenal to see people donating $300 or more.”

Last month his car was fixed thanks to the generosity of strangers, and Mr Greenfield has his independence back.

After being left a high level quadriplegic

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With his wheels back in action, Nathan Greenfield is ready to conquer anything.

Photo: Melinda Jane

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

Lack of experience

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Find any effective politician who has ever been anything other than a bureaucrat or a union hack and I’ll buy you another curry Troy (Editor’s Desk, Weekender May 12). Not only do most of them have very little to no real world experience, many of the Federal pollies’ Key Policy Advisers are people barely out of university, great that they have the piece of paper but again, sadly lacking any connection to the realities of the portfolios. I’m guessing you aren’t a fan of the British series ‘Yes Minister’ or ‘Yes Prime Minister’, these were intended to be comedies but sadly they were some 25 years ahead of their time as warnings of what was to come.

ANDREW WHITEMAN, VIA FACEBOOK

Dogs on the loose I agree with the leash laws (Cornish wants more bite from Council, Weekender May 12). Not everyone wants to be jumped on by a strange dog, and certainly nobody wants to get bitten. And there should be more places where you can let a dog run free – maybe wearing a muzzle if off leash, whatever.

ROB WEAVER, VIA FACEBOOK

More policing needed They could also clamp down on those who don’t pick up their dog crap as well.

Most take their little doggie bags, but some couldn’t give a crap... pardon the pun. So nice to step in it on your morning walk.

GREG PERKINS, VIA FACEBOOK

Commuters forgotten about As a lot of sporting experts say, don’t strengthen one position to weaken another. It is a shame that in trying to find a temporary location for the bus stop at Penrith Station, hundreds of parking spots have been made redundant. And you have to wonder, will they ever return?

Hundreds of people now struggle to find car parking each morning, adding to the stress of the train trip to Parramatta or the city. The alternative / replacement car parks fill up very quickly, just highlighting the severe lack of parking infrastructure that exists to support such a major train station. This is a significant failure of NSW Transport, the local Council and the State Government. I am now fed up, so I drive to work each morning. The M4 is a car park in itself, but at least I can find a spot!

R DALEY, PENRITH

Time to merge union teams The Penrith Emus promised yet again, but they are failing to deliver. It’s time to merge Penrith and Parramatta and create a bigger, better club.

STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

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

For more information, see our public notices section.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Visit Now College tours available

Council

Court grants Council access to PBA’s financial records

Penrith Anglican College is a co-educational Pre-K to Year 12 day school, where students are encouraged to achieve personal and academic excellence.

ALENA HIGGINS

upreme Court consent orders have been made granting Penrith Council access to Penrith Business Alliance’s (PBA) financial records, amid concerns public money given to the former organisation has not been properly accounted for.

Councillors decided in July last year to force the PBA to hand over its paper trail.

“Following a number of unsuccessful requests to access financial documents, Penrith Council commenced legal proceedings against the PBA in the Supreme Court on April 7, 2017,” a Council spokesperson said in a statement issued late last week.

“The proceedings were to seek an order from the Court that the PBA provide Council with access to records evidencing the use of funds provided to the PBA

by Council from July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015.”

The PBA was created in 2009 as an independent Council-funded entity to deliver citywide economic development

S

Find out how Penrith Anglican College prepares your child to learn, achieve and progress toward a bright future.

College Tours 22 May 2017: 9.30am to 11.00am 13 June 2017: 6pm to 7pm 2018 Information Sessions Pre-K - May 24 2017, 3.45pm - 6pm Year 11 - May 29 2017, 7.pm - 8.30pm For more information or to book a tour call 02 4736 8100 or visit our website.

www.penrith.nsw.edu.au

LISTEN TO ‘THE WEEK’: Hear the Western Weekender team wrap up the week that was in Penrith and preview the week that will be every Saturday with ‘The Week’. You can listen to ‘The Week’ from 8am on Vintage FM.

Personal excellence through Christ A member school of the Anglican Schools Corporation

and employment services, and was under the chairmanship of Paul Brennan.

It was funded with public money totalling $3.5 million.

However, following an independent review, funding was withdrawn in June 2015.

On Friday, May 5, the Supreme Court issued consent orders that PBA serve Council, by July 21, 2017, with documents evidencing how monies paid by Council to the PBA in the period July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015 were paid out or used by the PBA. Council then has one week to inspect the documents and make copies if required.

Penrith Mayor, John Thain, said he looked forward to disclosure of the documents as per the court directions, but was hesitant to predict where things would go from here if there appeared to be anomalies.

“I guess we have to cross that bridge when we come to it,” he said.

Both parties are to pay their own costs of the proceedings.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Community

Families set to do it tough in winter After launching its Winter Appeal, Vinnies says it expects an increase in calls for help this year EMILY NEWTON

s the cold weather approaches, our electricity bills rise, but for some local families it’s enough to push them over the edge.

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is anticipating a dramatic increase in the number of requests for help this winter as it launches its 2017 Vinnies Winter Appeal.

Nepean Regional President, Melissa Topp, said the rise in electricity costs will see more people struggling.

“Energy is a big concern, the electricity bills are getting higher and higher which means families are then deciding whether it’s food or energy bills they should pay,” she said.

The increase in power is just one of many factors forcing local families into dire circumstances.

“Sydney rents are increasing, again putting restraints on family incomes,” Ms Topp said.

“There’s rent, bills and food – they are a family’s main necessity and people just can’t afford them.”

Helping Vinnies for the past six years, Ms Topp has spent many days and nights assisting the greater Nepean region.

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Melissa Topp from Vinnies expects to receive a spike in calls for help during winter. Photo: Melinda Jane She said the emotional stories she hears from families encourage her to help every day.

“They are heartbreaking. It can be one small thing that happens, somebody gets sick, someone loses a job and things just crumble,” she said.

“In the first three months of the year, we’ve helped over 250 families in the Nepean region.

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

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“It’s very sad to see, but we are here to support and give them a hand to try to get them to where they need to be.”

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO, Jack de Groot, said individuals and families manage to pull through, given the right support.

“Ordinary people are able to make an extraordinary difference in their local communities. So often we see how people,

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at their time of greatest need, assisted by Vinnies members, staff and volunteers, and supported by our generous donors, can do heroic things together to help rebuild their lives,” he said.

Vinnes are asking the community for blankets, warm clothing and financial assistance.

For more information, visit www. vinnies.org.au, or call 1800 606 724.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Community

Quick thinking helped save a life Instinct took over when Andrew Macdonald stumbled across a serious car crash in 2015 EMILY NEWTON

oyal Life Saving Society Australia is showing that everyone can be a lifesaver, honouring Rural Fire Service (RFS) Group Captain Andrew Macdonald for his bravery following an incident that occurred in 2015.

One Monday, Mr Macdonald was returning home from an RFS volunteer training course in the Blue Mountains when he came across the scene of a single vehicle accident near Luddenham.

On initial inspection the female driver of the car was trapped and unconscious in the wreckage, so Mr Macdonald grabbed his first aid kit and Automated External Defibrillator, and without hesitation began External Cardiac Compressions.

“I don’t know that I did anything that any other volunteer wouldn’t have done,” Mr Macdonald said.

“I do have first aid qualifications and it was just one of those things where I had to do what I had to do.

“I don’t think about it often, but when I drive past the site I certainly do, and like any of those circumstances, it never really goes away.”

Mr Macdonald has volunteered in the

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Andrew Macdonald with his Royal Life Saving Society Australia award

Please join us

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

to discuss the future of the historic Fernhill Estate

Your say on our short, medium and long term plans

Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Trust (RGCRT) has entered into a due diligence process, with a view to conserving Fernhill Estate at DƵůŐŽĂ͕ ǁŚŝůƐƚ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ƟŵĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŝŶŐ Ă ŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ ĐĞŵĞƚĞƌLJ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŵĞĞƚ ƚŚĞ ŶĞĞĚƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ^LJĚŶĞLJ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͘ KƵƌ ŽďũĞĐƟǀĞ ŝƐ ƚŽ ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŚŽŵĞƐƚĞĂĚ ĂŶĚ ŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞ͕ ĞŶƐƵƌŝŶŐ ŝƚ ŝƐ ĐŽŶƐĞƌǀĞĚ ĨŽƌ ĨƵƚƵƌĞ ŐĞŶĞƌĂƟŽŶƐ͘ dŽ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ƚŚŝƐ ŝŶŝƟĂƟǀĞ ǁĞ ǁŽƵůĚ ŝŶ ƚƵƌŶ ƵƟůŝƐĞ ƚŚĞ ƵŶĚĞǀĞůŽƉĞĚ ĂŶĚ ŶŽŶ ďŝŽͲďĂŶŬĞĚ ƐĞĐƟŽŶƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽƉĞƌƚLJ ĂƐ Ă ƉƌĞĚŽŵŝŶĂŶƚůLJ ůĂǁŶ ƐƚLJůĞ ĐĞŵĞƚĞƌLJ͘

MEETING DATES AND TIMES TUESDAY 16TH MAY | 1:00PM, 3:30PM and 6:00PM WEDNESDAY 17TH MAY | 8:00AM, 10:30AM and 1:00PM MONDAY 22ND MAY | 1:00PM, 3:30PM and 6:00PM WEDNESDAY 31ST MAY | 8:00AM, 10:30AM and 1:00PM &ƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŵĞĞƟŶŐƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŚĞůĚ ŝĨ ĚĞŵĂŶĚ ŝƐ ŚŝŐŚ͘ ůů DĞĞƟŶŐƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŚĞůĚ Ăƚ &ĞƌŶŚŝůů ƐƚĂƚĞ͘

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To RSVP visit ǁǁǁ͘ƌŽŽŬǁŽŽĚĐĞŵĞƚĞƌLJ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵͬĨĞƌŶŚŝůůͺĞƐƚĂƚĞͺŵĞĞƟŶŐƐ, email ŵĂƌŬĞƟŶŐΛƌŽŽŬǁŽŽĚĐĞŵĞƚĞƌLJ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ or call 8575 8100

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western Sydney area for 23 years and attended hundreds of motor vehicle accidents, fires and floods.

“I have been a volunteer for almost 30 years for the RFS,” he said.

“It’s something I will continue to volunteer for in some capacity for as long as I can.”

Mr Macdonald described the Royal Life Saving award ceremony as “humbling” as he sat with other civilians, police officers and members of Fire & Rescue NSW who were also honoured.

“What Royal Life Saving is really about is encouraging people to become skilled in basic first aid, it was interesting talking to a number of recipients yesterday, there’s not enough people willing to assist someone in their time of need,” he said.

“I’ve seen it and experienced it in various incidents through the years – you never know if you attend a first aid course who you might help, it could be your children, your parents or your spouse, or even a stranger, it doesn’t matter.”

Mr Macdonald encouraged everyone to consider undertaking a First Aid course.

Mr Macdonald was awarded High Commendations for his quick response and determined efforts to save the life of a fellow human being.

You might have seen our recent promotion of the public exhibition of our annual, four-year and 10+ year planning documents for the City.

The headline may have caught your eye: “We’re spending $1 billion for Penrith over the next four years. Want to help?”

Is Council really spending that much?

Yes, and we have clear plans for how to do it, developed in consultation with our community. And can you really influence our priorities and decisions?

Yes – our key planning and budget documents are open for comment until June 7. We need to hear about what’s important to you as we plan our spending for the next four years.

Bear in mind that a lot of that $1 billion needs to be spent on things we’re already committed to. We have around 200,000 residents; 26 child care centres used by 2,600 children; 51 community buildings; 1200 staff; and libraries visited by 1500 people each day. We manage and maintain 1,076 km of local and regional roads; over 1,250 hectares of open space; 105 sporting facilities; 402 parks; 142 playground sites; 775,000m2 of landscap-

ing and gardens, and 45 hectares of natural areas. You can imagine the bills just to keep the lights on, our trucks and mowers full of petrol, and the water flowing.

We also need to deliver projects which we’ve committed to following extensive community engagement, such as improvements in the Penrith and St Marys Centres and along the River.

Where does all that money come from? Just under half comes from rates and annual charges. The rest comes from various sources including user fees and charges; grants and contributions; and investments.

You can still help ensure we’re using our resources to best meet the needs of the community over the next four years, in two main ways. Tell us the issues that concern you most in general, and comment specifically on our annual works program. I encourage you to visit and register on Council’s community engagement website – yoursaypenrith.com.au to see all the Council plans and projects you can give feedback on.

CR JOHN THAIN Mayor of Penrith

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Fundraiser

Race in to help put an end to domestic violence EMILY NEWTON

et your festive gear ready because Queen of Hearts is hosting its second annual Christmas in July fundraiser, to help put an end to domestic violence.

Queen of Hearts CEO, Michele Ellery, said the event gives the people of western Sydney a chance to “have a great night and be a part of the solution”.

“All money raised from that event will allow us to continue to provide vital counselling and trauma support for victims of domestic violence,” she said.

Ms Ellery said that a free and efficient front-line service is crucial to support Penrith, which was identified in 2016 as the second highest area across the state for reported cases of domestic violence and abuse.

“One of the most significant things for Penrith services has been the waiting times,” she said.

“Some people have waited up to 10 weeks, and some service providers have had their books closed.”

Following the community support of the past year, Queen of Hearts provides assistance to clients in between seven and 10 days.

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But despite the speed, which is seen as crucial in incidences of domestic violence, the organisation is just getting busier.

“People are starting to realise through word of mouth and referrals from other services that we can see clients in less time,” Ms Ellery said.

“We work really hard and there’s a dedicated staff. We’ve tripled our workload since Christmas.”

She said the increased workload shows how prevalent domestic violence is in our community, and is asking everyone to play their part in putting it to an end.

“I think we’re paying attention but I still think there is a lot more work to be done,” she said.

“There still needs to be education and awareness with schools and the community as a whole.”

With the event almost sold out following the success of last year, this year will be a night to remember with delicious food, guest speakers and a visit from the man in red himself.

If you’ve missed out on tickets, you can still bid for items, donate raffle prizes and find out how you can help by visiting www.qohevents.org.

Queen of Hearts will host their ‘Christmas in July at the Races’ event at Club Paceway on Thursday, July 20.

Michele Ellery is inviting the community to take a stand against domestic violence at Queen of Hearts’ second annual Christmas is July fundraiser. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Community

your life your kids your money

Rotary honours local students who are making a difference

Grace Chamberlin, Tyler Dent, Zain Taylor, Sophie Douglas-Torrie, Mark Nielsen and Shania Kumarasamy were all presented with awards from Rotary EMILY NEWTON

he future leaders of Penrith, and perhaps Australia, were this week celebrated for the difference they make not only in the local community but also nationally and internationally.

On Tuesday, the Rotary Club of Nepean held their 12th annual Focus on Youth dinner to celebrate local kids who are “making a difference”.

Nepean Rotary’s Director of Youth and Vocational Services, Ken Buttrum, said the local students are all remarkable.

“I do believe that you bring out the best

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in people by encouraging them to give, to make an impact,” he said.

The program does not see students compete against one another, but instead celebrates and encourages them all to reach their potential.

“They need encouragement and we need to nurture them and let them see that they’re not in a race but that they are valued for who they are,” Mr Buttrum said.

Rotary member Ross Hutchison said the night celebrates local kids, encouraging others to join in.

“It’s just an amazing and emotional thing,” he said.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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n March this year, KPMG Australia acquired the business of Penrith-based accounting and tax practice, TRACE Chartered Accountants, supporting the growth of the firm’s mid-market business, KPMG Enterprise.

TRACE Chartered Accountants has been providing professional services to the Nepean community for more than 30 years.

Founded by Brien Tracey in 1979, and later joined by his son and new KPMG Partner Peter Tracey, the business comprises of 11 team members.

Located at its existing premises in Macquarie Avenue, Penrith, TRACE provides professional services to a variety of industries in the Nepean region including manufacturers, retailers, medical and legal, small business and high profile sportspeople.

“Becoming part of the KPMG network is an exciting progression for our team and clients, and significantly deepens our resources and breadth of services,” Peter Tracey said.

“We now have the ability to

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“In addition to these services, we offer general accounting and taxation services to businesses.”

With overall revenue of around 15 per cent in western Sydney, KPMG plans to create around 250 local jobs in the next two years.

KPMG continues to work closely with Western Sydney University and its business innovation program, Launchpad, helping to expand capability in the advanced manufacturing sector and support companies transitioning from domestic to globally competitive businesses.

“With the amount of growth and development that is happening in western Sydney, the opportunity to bring a strong brand like KPMG out west will bring some exciting opportunities,” Mr Tracey said.

“We are looking forward to growing KPMG’s footprint in western Sydney.”

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

BUSINESS M Meaningful quotes for businesses fo

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f you’re a regular reader of my column, you will know I throw in the occasional motivational quote! But if you are on social media, you will also know that there are many inane and cringe-worthy ones out there. Some of the ones I’ve included this time are not typically found in business quote lists, but I think they all have great wisdom for those of us in business: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow.

Learn as if you were to live forever.”

(Mahatma Gandhi) I think most people who run a business have a fairly good grasp on this sentiment. But it is worth being reminded that life is short and that learning should be lifelong. This is not just in reference to new technologies but also learning more about ourselves, better ways to communicate and improving the ways we interact with customers.

“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.”

(Dolly Parton) I have never quoted Dolly Parton before! But I think there is a simple truth to this, especially for those new to the

business game. While most business people love what they do, they soon realise that there are downsides and negatives that come before and/or in between the positives. Most of us will have many more ‘rainy days’ than we would like, but doesn’t that make us appreciate the rainbow more when it does come?

“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” (Colin Powell) In a similar vein to the Dolly Parton quote, this is one that brings us all thumping back to reality. If you are in business because you think your big idea is going to magically happen just because it’s a brilliant concept, think again! Every single business dream that is realised has only come about because of sheer hard work. As my swim coach says, the winners are always the ones who have prepared the best – and preparation takes sweat and determination to keep pushing forward.

I’d love to hear some of the inspirational quotes you use in your business. Email them through to info@ westernweekender.com.au.

T

he floods that hit South East Queensland and the NSW border caused immense damage to property and business in the area. Business Connect sent three of our advisors to the region to help in the recovery centres and they had some interesting findings.

Insurance: Many small businesses had no insurance at all, some due to high risk and prohibitive premiums (over $50k).

However some unknowingly had access to other affordable insurances. Insurance does not have to be all or nothing, so consider what you can insure. Get advice and quotes from three different brokers.

Each will have their own views, expertise and access to a limited panel of insurers.

Business Continuity: If your phone, email, premises or website goes down, can you keep trading – for a day, week or month? Many businesses for weeks after the floods had no property access.

Around 20 per cent of businesses may not reopen, but they also didn’t know how to close!

Lost Records: With the current malware issues, this is a risk for ALL businesses daily. Are your important documents

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stored in multiple locations? To access some disaster grants businesses needed to have utility bills, business name records etc. Can you access your banking remotely without your password cheat sheet hidden in your desk? (Not a good idea by the way!).

Back-ups: Have back-ups onsite, offsite (maybe home and office, or even an accountant’s office) and in the cloud. This applies to everything – paper documents, photos, data, templates…

You also have a responsibility to make sure all personal and confidential data is safely maintained and protected from theft and fraud.

Risk Assessment: You can hire people, or conduct your own risk assessments.

For each potential risk on a scale of high, medium and low, assess the likelihood and impact of that risk occurring.

This creates a matrix. If a risk has high likelihood and high impact, make sure to reduce or mitigate that risk through procedures (like backing up), insurance or other action.

Disasters can occur at any time. Prepare ahead, and your future will be secure.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

CLOUDED FUTURE » The mystery surrounding Te Maire

Martin’s future at Penrith continues to deepen, and you have to feel for coach Anthony Griffin who constantly has to deny that there’s anything happening behind the scenes when in reality, plenty of discussions are being had about the 21-year-old’s future. Last Friday, Griffin denied that Martin was on the outer.

“Part of being a first grader in everyone’s career is learning how to go back to second grade in the early part of your career and get things right,” he said. “He’s a really good kid, he’s got a really good attitude. There’s no agenda to try to squeeze him out or anything like that.” Hook was again asked about Martin in the postmatch press conference following Saturday’s game against the Warriors, where he was a little less convincing. “We’ll see,” Griffin said when asked if Martin had a future at the club, before confirming that at this stage the boom five-eighth had not asked for a release. Watch this space – Martin is at long odds to ever play first grade for Penrith again and could be gone within the next few weeks.

» Linking in with the rumours surround-

ing Martin’s future is speculation that the Panthers may chase Melbourne Storm halfback Cooper Cronk, who is moving to Sydney next year. With so many Sydney clubs locking up their halves combinations for the short and medium term future already, it is no surprise that the logical connection is being made between the Storm superstar and Penrith, who have uncertainty about at least one spot in the halves. However, I can’t find anyone at Penrith who will even confirm off the record that Cronk is a legitimate target, while Phil Gould has ruled out chasing the 33-year-old. The whole thing does pose an interesting question though.

If Penrith isn’t chasing Cronk, and if Martin is leaving, and if we all accept Bryce Cartwright is not a five-eighth, then who will wear the number six jumper at Penrith next year?

» Further to the talk surrounding Pen-

34

with the Masked Panther

Narrandera officials present the Panthers with three didgeridoos. Photo: Melinda Jane rith’s halves, The Sun Herald revealed last weekend that the Panthers showed interest in signing Broncos star Ben Hunt for the 2018 season, before the Dragons came in with an offer that blew everybody out of the water. If it’s true, it shows the Panthers have been uncomfortable about the Martin / Cleary halves combination for some time and identified that some experience was needed. Out of interest, The Masked Panther received an anonymous tip last year that suggested the Panthers had shopped Te Maire Martin around to the Dragons. It made little sense at the time, but perhaps there was some truth to it after all.

» Players and officials from the Narrand-

era Lizards Junior Rugby League Club had an amazing time in Penrith last weekend, witnessing one of the most incredible comebacks ever seen at Pepper Stadium.

In celebration of the Indigenous Round, officials from the club located in the Riverina region of southern New South Wales presented three didgeridoos to the Panthers. One was presented to Panthers Chairman Dave O’Neill, another to club legend Mark Geyer and the third to Glen Liddiard, who designed the club’s Indigenous jersey this year.

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» The long-awaited return of power-

house winger Josh Mansour is now only a fortnight away. Panthers coach Anthony Griffin has confirmed that Mansour, who was injured while training with Australia late last year, will return against the Bulldogs in Round 13.

» The Panthers are hoping to secure Co-

rey Harawira-Naera to a new deal in the coming weeks. The exciting second rower is off contract at the end of the season and has attracted the interest of several rival NRL clubs, but his preference is to remain with the Panthers. The 22-yearold, who celebrated a birthday on Thursday, made his NRL debut earlier this year.

The Panthers have tabled him an offer, which is currently being weighed up by the youngster and his management.

» It felt like a long time coming but

Penrith’s win over the Warriors was the club’s 500th in first grade. It was certainly a milestone victory we won’t forget in a hurry!

» The sense of relief when the full-time

siren went last Saturday afternoon could be felt right around Pepper Stadium.

From the players right through to the

fans and officials, it felt like an enormous burden had been lifted. One of the great sights was seeing Chairman Dave O’Neill embrace captain Matt Moylan with a hug on the field. The players enjoyed the win well into the night – a few were still celebrating long after the Masked Panther’s bed time.

» This weekend is Beanies for Brain Can-

cer round in the NRL and there’s some great stories already emerging from this tremendous concept. Penrith’s Holden Cup skipper Wayde Egan (who scored four tries against the Warriors last week) has urged his entire team to buy a beanie as part of the initiative. He’s collected the money from everyone in the squad and the players will pick up their beanies at the Newcastle game on Sunday.

» If your neighbour suddenly unfurls a

‘Panther Pride’ banner in his front yard, the club would love to hear from you. Apparently a large banner was stolen from a fence along Mulgoa Road, near Pepper Stadium, earlier this week.

» The New South Wales team for State of Origin I will be revealed on Monday evening.

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MATCH PREVIEW

FINDING THEIR MOJO PANTHERS V KNIGHTS | SUNDAY, MAY 21 • 2.00PM | MCDONALD JONES STADIUM | REFEREES: DAVID MUNRO & CHRIS JAMES

PANTHERS 1

Matt Moylan (c)

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 20

Peta Hiku Dean Whare Waqa Blake Dallin Watene-Zelezniak Bryce Cartwright Nathan Cleary James Tamou Peter Wallace Reagan Campbell-Gillard Corey Narawira-Naera Isaah Yeo Trent Merrin Tyrone Peachey Leilani Latu 16 Tim Browne Viliame Kikau Moses Leota 19 S Akauola Mitch Rein 21 T Martin

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

Brought to you by…

KNIGHTS

Isaah Yeo scoring his first of two tries last weekend against the Warriors. Photo: Melinda Jane

TROY DODDS @troydodds

D

own 28-6, coach Anthony Griffin would have had every right to read the riot act to his 17 players as they sat despondent in the dressing room at Pepper Stadium last Saturday afternoon.

Instead, he took a different approach. He remained relatively calm, talked about the positives and spoke about what it would take to get themselves out of what was a very deep hole.

Griffin had perhaps sensed that this was not the time for a rant and rave. He had done that against the Broncos a fortnight earlier, and you have to pick your moments.

As he said in the post-match press conference after his side’s remarkable comeback to win the game, the Panthers had managed to find some bizarre and ridiculous ways to be scored against in that first half. Fix up those errors, and perhaps they were a chance. A positive attitude was the key.

As we have suspected for some weeks now, the Panthers only needed some confidence to kickstart their season and start to show glimpses of their potential.

If Penrith do manage to go on to make the Finals this year, it may well all come back to that 12 minute period between the 47th and 59th minutes, when they scored four tries and suddenly found their mojo.

The win last Saturday was important.

Ensuring it is capitalised on is even more critical.

The Panthers now start a long stint away from Pepper Stadium (they won’t be back

until July), but it is a period on the road that could garner plenty of competition points, starting this Sunday against last placed Newcastle at McDonald Jones Stadium.

The Panthers thrashed the Knights earlier this year but it’s unlikely it’ll be as easy this time around. Apart from the advantage of playing on their home turf, Newcastle found some form and confidence last weekend with a 34-20 victory over Canberra, proving they aren’t the easybeats of the competition everyone considers them to be.

For the Panthers from here, it’s all about finding consistency. They have some ground to make up and this match offers them the chance to win back to back games for the first time this year, and further boost the confidence levels that were given a significant lift in the second half against the Warriors.

It was pleasing to see players like Matt

1

Dane Gagai

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20

Ken Sio Joe Wardle Peter Mata’utia Nathan Ross Brock Lamb Jaelen Feeney Daniel Saifiti Danny Levi Josh Starling Sione Mata’utia Sam Stone Josh King Luke Yates 15 Anthony Tupou Mitch Barnett 17 J Saifiti B Elliot 19 Tyler Randell T Hodkinson 21 J Stockwell

Moylan and Trent Merrin produce their best performances of the season last weekend, but even better was watching Isaah Yeo being rewarded for what has been a great year so far (he’s been one of Penrith’s best in my opinion). With Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Bryce Cartwright also stepping up to the plate, the team certainly started to gel a lot more last weekend and it will surely only get better from here.

James Fisher-Harris again finds himself on the sideline with injury, but otherwise Penrith’s side is relatively unchanged.

Last weekend’s miracle comeback means nothing without a win this Sunday, making this one of the most critical games of the season so far. I’m expecting a tight first half but the Panthers should have too much for the re-building Knights as the game rolls on.

Tip: Panthers by 12

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

Brought to you by

Right mix of experience and youth can win Origin series for NSW

JAMIE SOWARD

T

he 2017 State of Origin series is just about upon us and, as always, mock teams are already starting to emerge of what Laurie Daley’s line-up could look like for Origin I. I’ve decided to put my hat in the ring and pick my best 17 players that should be selected for next Wednesday’s opener at Suncorp Stadium.

While you may notice a few big names missing, my team is made up of experienced guys who have done the job before as well players that are in such good form, that I can’t possibly leave them out.

1. Jarryd Hayne I wanted to pick Hayne at five-eighth but Mitchell Pearce’s form has been too good to resist, so I’ve gone with Hayne at fullback because I want him to have the ball as much as possible.

2. Brett Morris With the recent injury to Tom Trbojevic, who would’ve been a lock at wing, I’ve got to go with experience and there’s no one more professional on the big stage than Brett Morris.

3. BJ Leilua We’ve got to start picking players

Queensland don’t want to come up against and Leilua will give the Maroons’ backs plenty of nightmares.

4. Josh Dugan Josh’s a big game player and played well in the Australian side recently. He combines really well with Blake Ferguson.

5. Blake Ferguson While Blake’s form has been mixed with the Roosters this season, he always shows up on the big occasions and will do so again alongside his old friend and former club teammate in Dugan.

6. James Maloney James has been there before and done it all. He now has a second premiership under his belt and this has to be the year he produces if the Blues are going to win.

7. Mitchell Pearce Everyone always bags Mitch’s Origin record but you have to pick him on form.

He’s the best halfback NSW have got at the moment and he’s really matured over the last 18 months.

8. Aaron Woods Big Woodsy would’ve played for Australia recently had he not been injured.

I’m looking forward to seeing how he returns from injury this weekend.

9. Peter Wallace Wal’s played Origin before and understands the game. He’s got great game management and won’t overplay his hand like some NSW hookers have in the past.

10. Shannon Boyd Shannon has been solid for Canberra and, whilst they haven’t been winning games, his statistics haven’t changed too much and he continues to go forward.

11. Boyd Cordner (pictured) Boyd’s in career-best form for the Roosters on that left-hand edge and will do well captaining the Blues through a new era.

12. Tyson Frizell Tyson is having an outstanding season for the Dragons and performed well on the Origin stage last year.

13. Trent Merrin Mez played for the Kangaroos recently and didn’t disappoint. He’ll give the forwards a real push up front.

14. Wade Graham Wade probably should be in the starting side but with Merrin at lock, he offers some spark off the bench and has playmaking ability.

15. Andrew Fifita Fifita is a Kangaroos and premiership

player, and will give NSW that real edge off the bench when he’s injected.

16. Jake Trbojevic This kid is one of Manly’s best every week and I think he’ll do a great job for NSW, just like he did for the Kangaroos a few weeks back.

17. Paul Vaughan Paul’s form has put the Dragons on the map this season and it’s hard not to give him a Blues jumper for that. He’s just about been the buy of the year 10 rounds in. Deserves his shot.

The Week - Podcast Now reading your favourite local newspaper is just the beginning.

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WAQA SHOWS HIS STRENGTH NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

I Waqa Blake celebrates his try

t’s a try that will without doubt feature on the end-of-season NRL highlights reel, but Panthers centre Waqa Blake admits he was lucky he didn’t bomb the crucial four-pointer that ended up being one of the highlights of Penrith’s miracle comeback over the Warriors last weekend.

With his side down by 10 points and his teammates following in support, the barnstorming Fijian brushed off the safe option and instead chose to charge straight through Kiwi Test international Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, leaving him behind in his wake.

If Tuivasa-Sheck brought down Blake, he would have been crucified for not passing the ball but fortunately the ‘footy gods’ were finally on Penrith’s side.

Blake jumped for joy in a moment of pure celebration after crossing the line.

“To be honest, it happened so quick, I didn’t mean to run over him like I did,” a humble Blake told Extra Time.

“I just sort of panicked, it all happened so quickly. Roger is a tough, classy player and I was pretty lucky I didn’t bomb that try.”

Blake’s incredible effort was just one of numerous highlights from the centre last Saturday afternoon, which also included two length of the field chases on Warriors winger David Fusitu’a.

Despite being down 22 points at the break, the 22-year-old said he took plenty of confidence out of how coach Anthony Griffin reacted at half-time.

“Hook was very calm. I knew he had a lot of faith in us and he knew that wasn’t us in the first half,” Blake said.

“He usually does his rounds at half-time and tips up each player on what they are doing well or bad in, but he didn’t talk too much to the boys in this game. Hook just said there’s no better time to show how much we really want to win this game than by coming back from 22 points down.

“That really brought the boys together and it was awesome to hear.”

Blake’s incredible try made up for an indiscretion in the first half that saw him sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes.

If Penrith are serious about getting their season back on track, they need to overcome a confident Newcastle side, who notched up their second win of the season last Sunday against Canberra.

Blake said the side can’t get too carried away with their first victory since March.

“We can’t rely too much on that. We did have our faults in the first half and we’ve just got to regroup this week and sort out where we went wrong,” he said.

“Newcastle are a class team and are going to be very tough up there.”

Meanwhile, Blake opened up about his debut appearance with the Fijian national team in the recent representative round.

He said it was a moment he’ll never forget.

“It was awesome, it was probably one of the best experiences of my life,” Blake said.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

FEATURE

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

HOOK KEPT HIS COOL NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

P

anthers interchange forward Tim Browne believes coach Anthony Griffin’s calm demeanour at half-time was the catalyst for Penrith’s remarkable 30-point turnaround against the New Zealand Warriors last weekend.

Down an appalling 28-6 at the break, Penrith returned from the sheds energised and enthused – scoring five unanswered tries to run out surprise 36-28 winners.

The 22-point comeback was Penrith’s second biggest of all time and is only onepoint shy of their largest ever comeback (23 points) against the Wests Tigers back in 2000.

Expecting an almighty blow-up at halftime, Browne said coach Griffin was a lot calmer than he anticipated.

“I couldn’t believe how calm he was, I was expecting something very different but I think a lot of the boys took plenty of confidence from that,” Browne told Extra Time.

“Hook is just very calm and professional, and he doesn’t let it get to the players… it stops with him.

“None of us felt panicked because of that. We felt we were in control. I was so excited for that second half and it played out the way we wanted it to.”

While Penrith’s second half fightback will be remembered by fans for a very long time, questions were once again raised as to how the side ended up 22 points down in the first place.

Browne said he can’t quite put his finger on why his side are enduring such slow starts.

“If I was a magician, I’d fix that,” he quipped.

“We’ll get in there again this week and keep working hard at what we are doing wrong.

“I said to some of the boys at half-time that we were playing some of the best footy we had all year in that first half. I didn’t lose faith and I felt if we stuck to what we trained for, plus the individual talent we have in this team, we could turn this around.”

Securing his first win in Panthers colours, the 29-year-old has been in and

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

FEATURE

Tim Browne following last Saturday’s win over the Warriors. Photo: Melinda Jane out of first grade since switching from the Bulldogs this season.

While injury and suspension has kept him out of all but five first grade games, Browne believes he’s finally starting to find his place at his new club.

The Raymond Terrace junior said he sympathises with fellow new recruit James Tamou, who has also struggled since his move from North Queensland.

“It’s hard… I came here and didn’t know anyone to begin with and that’s a big challenge in itself,” Browne said.

“Just picking up the style of football the club likes to play, is a bit different to what I’m used to.

“I’ve had some injuries and suspensions to start the year but I’m looking forward to putting some footy together because I feel I owe it to the boys and the fans.”

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

IN PICTURES Photos: Melinda Jane

A DAY TO REMEMBER What a game! The Panthers were too good for the Warriors

40

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

28 JULY – 12 AUGUST

SATURDAY 13 MAY AT 3PM

FRAME OF MIND SUNDAY 18 JUNE AT 4PM Western Sydney Opera

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PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

Storm

10

8

0

2

0

224

159

+65

16

2 Sharks

10

7

0

3

0

200

132

+68

14

3 Roosters

10

7

0

3

0

212

152

+60

14

4 Broncos

10

7

0

3

0

215

161

+54

14

5 Dragons

10

6

0

4

0

239

169

+70

12

6 Cowboys

10

6

0

4

0

199

204

-5

12

7 Sea Eagles

10

5

0

5

0

230

193

+37

10

8 Bulldogs

10

5

0

5

0

152

174

-22

10

9 Eels

10

5

0

5

0

182

214

-32

10

CLUB

1

10 Raiders

10

4

0

6

0

230

193

+37

8

11 Titans

10

4

0

6

0

248

262

-14

8

12 Warriors

10

4

0

6

0

174

219

-45

8

13 Rabbitohs

10

4

0

6

0

182

233

-51

8

14 Panthers

10

3

0

7

0

192

213

-21

6

15 W. Tigers

10

3

0

7

0

152

254

-102

6

16 Knights

10

2

0

8

0

164

263

-99

4

Round 11

FACE IN THE CROWD

Thursday, May 18 7.50pm Southern Cross Group Stadium

/ / / / / / / /

Friday, May 19 6pm FMG Stadium

Friday, May 19 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium Saturday, May 20 5.30pm Cbus Super Stadium Saturday, May 20 7.30pm ANZ Stadium Sunday, May 21 2pm McDonald Jones Stadium Sunday, May 21 4pm ANZ Stadium

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES

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

If it is, you’ve won a $100 JB HiFi voucher thanks to Penrith Homemaker Centre. To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 012 PRINTED BY Spotpress Pty Ltd / PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Sunday, May 21 6.30pm nib Stadium

CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Jamie Soward / Andrew Voss SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi/ 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

Brought to you by

Crazy round just proves how close the competition can be

ANDREW VOSS

W

ell folks, talk about a tough act to follow. What could possibly top the results, drama, and whopping tally of 400 points scored in Round 10 of the Telstra premiership?

Plenty of fans probably needed a little bit of counselling after their side’s performance.

Over at the Tigers, their loyal mob thought the world had crashed in after a listless effort against Souths on Friday.

Melbourne fans, not used to disappointment, remain flabbergasted at how their team could score 36 points in a match and be beaten. But that was the case Saturday night at Suncorp Stadium.

Manly supporters watched their team squander a 14-0 lead against Brisbane and not trouble the scorer again, as the Broncos piled on 24 unanswered points.

Up at Newcastle, what happened to the Raiders? Facing a team that had lost 26 of its last 27 matches, how did Canberra concede 34 points and lose by 14?

And I have no answers for the collapse of the Eels on Sunday against the Roosters. I actually tipped Parramatta to win only to see them

crushed by a Roosters outfit that registered eight tries.

However, all of it takes a backseat really to the drama at Pepper Stadium.

Just to ram home the numbers, the Panthers’ effort in fighting back from 28-6 down was the eighth biggest comeback in premiership history. It was the second biggest in 50 years of Penrith.

For the Warriors, not adverse from the odd collapse, this was their biggest.

How good is rugby league? How can it produce such sporting theatre? And all in the one round?

In commentary over the years I have learned to never ‘give up’ on a game. To trail by 12-18 points early in a contest will often be overturned by half-time.

There is no such thing in modern rugby league as defending a lead. So many teams swoop in the final 20 minutes these days. Feeling safe about tipping a winner is hard work!

And as for the poor football punter, perhaps when the betting agencies trot out the line “Gamble Responsibly”, they should add an extra phrase.… “and have the Panadols handy”.

Watch every game of the 2017 Telstra Premiership live and commercial free during play on Fox League.

The Panthers celebrate their comeback win over the Warriors. Photo: Melinda Jane

panthers on the prowl

WOMEN

The Primary Classroom Program at Panthers on the Prowl has been running continuously for 15 years. We serve local primary schools to assist in the development of social and emotional learning targeted at small groups. Each week we nominate a student of the week from a participating school to highlight their efforts. ts.

WHO

s i k e e w e h t f o t n e d Stu Caleb Finn

The student of the week is brought to you by

Old Council Chambers Suite 4, 129-133 Henry street, Penrith

Book Now: info@queenofhearts.org.au or 1300856737

Guest Speaker Light Supper Provided Fun & Engaging $20 per person

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Tuesday 23rd May 2017 5pm - 6.30pm

WW27511

This week’s student of the week is Caleb Finn. Caleb goes to York Public School and has really enjoyed participating in our daily fitness sessions. Research highlights the link between physical health and school achievement levels and this is why daily fitness sessions are such an important component of our social skills programs. Students perform fitness tests at the beginning and end of the term and use their results to set themselves goals and targets. The main focus of these activities is to foster positive habits through consistent participation. Caleb’s enthusiasm and effort in these sessions reflect his hard working attitude.

Speaker Tess Danjoux, Senior Associate Marsdens Law Group

Book your Ticket: info@queenofhearts.org.au W: www.queenofhearts.org.au

SCOREBOARD

Panthers AXE Lang

NRL PANTHERS 36 WARRIORS 28 John Lang celebrates the 2003 premiership at ANZ Stadium

TROY DODDS @troydodds

I

t’s never easy to give a coach his marching orders, but even more difficult when that coach has brought your club a premiership.

This was the problem facing thenCEO Glenn Matthews in 2006, as he pondered the future of 2003 premiership-winning mentor John Lang.

Lang’s Panthers had gone from the heights of that premiership in 2003 and a Finals appearance in 2004 to falling off the radar in 2005 – finishing outside of the top eight despite winning their final five games of the season.

During the 2005-2006 off-season, things weren’t looking good for the Panthers. The Board had been forced to strip Craig Gower of the captaincy and

fine him $30,000 over an off-field issue, disrupting preparations for the season ahead.

With things looking a little shaky at the Panthers, Mr Matthews sprung into action and before a ball had been kicked in the competition proper, he sacked John Lang.

Lang remained in charge for the 2006 season to warm the chair for Matthew Elliott, who would take over in 2007.

“We all learned a lot from John but it’s time for our organisation to change,” Mr Matthews said.

The situation turned somewhat sour with the manner in which Lang was sacked becoming the major issue.

Lang had always believed he would be the first to know if there was an issue regarding his future at the Panthers, but media reports suggested that Mr Matthews was already negotiating with Elliott in the weeks leading up to the Lang sacking.

Despite the pre-season drama, Lang coached Penrith to wins over the Bulldogs and Dragons in their opening games of the season, but inconsistent form saw Penrith miss out on the top eight.

Lang’s last win with the Panthers came in round 23 when they beat Cronulla 32-28 at Toyota Park, with losses to the Knights and Bulldogs to round out the season.

Despite losing to Canterbury in the final home game of the season, Lang was given a fitting farewell by the fans he had brought so much joy, with a deserved lap of honour around Penrith Stadium.

While John Lang’s departure from the Panthers could have been handled better, he will forever be remembered as the man that brought the club its second premiership and for that, he will forever be a club legend.

Thank you, John.

HOLDEN CUP PANTHERS 38 WARRIORS 16

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

BLAST FROM THE PAST

ISP NSW PANTHERS 26 WARRIORS 26

Truth, Not Dare* *When audited by the AMAA # ./ -) & ) - is committed to protecting advertisers by having their distribution independently verified by AMAA.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 19, 2017

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WEAR A B EAN I E ‘Beanie for Brain Cancer’ round will be held this weekend in the NRL. The round is the concept of ‘NRL Footy Show’ and Nine NRL Executive Producer Matt Callander, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2016.

All funds raised throughout the round will go to the Mark Hughes Foundation, with the aim to raise a minimum of $500,000 to fund a three-year research fellowship in brain cancer research. See www. markhughesfoundation.com.au.

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PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

Latin twist for musical partners

T KATE REID

ogether they’ve taken a musical journey through the British Isles and the Southern Skies and now singer Katie Noonan (pictured right) and guitarist Karin Schaupp (pictured left) are diving into the world of Latin American music on their latest album, ‘Songs of the Latin Skies’.

Exploring the sounds of the great South American songbook – including bossa nova, salsa, samba and tango – was an

obvious choice for the incredibly talented and experienced duo.

“The guitar has been at the centrepoint of that music for centuries, so it was kind of a fairly logical next step because we just had such an incredible wealth of material to choose from,” Katie said.

Coming from very different musical backgrounds has provided the duo with a broad range of skills to draw from.

“I’m across the jazz and pop worlds and Karin is really across the classical world, so we bring different strengths and we can learn from each other,” Katie said.

Her collaboration with Karin is just one of many projects Katie has worked on throughout her musical career.

The busy working mum has performed with several bands including george and Elixir, along with solo projects and collaborations with fellow artists.

For the singer/songwriter, working with Karin has become a familiar place to return to over the years.

“It’s like putting on a pair of comfy pyjamas,” she laughed.

Audiences first got to know Katie in the early ‘00s through the band george.

With an impossibly perfect voice she won many fans’ hearts, and those fans were no doubt over the moon when george recently played a series of shows to celebrate 20 years since they first took to the stage.

“It was really interesting because when we started out I was a young girl becoming a woman and now I’m a mother and a wife,” Katie said.

As for whether it’s the start of a new era for george, that’s a pretty firm no... for the time being.

“It was kind of really feeling like a one off thing,” she said.

“It made sense to go back but I don’t think we have any plans to continue making music, at least not at this stage.”

Katie Noonan and Karin Schaupp will be performing at The Joan on Sunday, June 11 at 5pm. Tickets are $50-$55. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.thejoan.com.au or call 4723 7600.

western sydney publ ishing grou p Western Sydney Publishing Group is your custom printing solution Magazines | Newspapers | Marketing Materials Brochures | Plus much more westernsydneypublishinggroup.com.au • 4722 2998

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

STEVIE & THE EASY BEATS

FRI 09 JUN

THE RADIATORS

& MENTAL AS ANYTHING

FRI 14 JUL

50

bookings: 13 28 49

panthers.com.au

WW27076

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

A Sun-Day full of fun at The Joan in Penrith KATE REID

F

ind the funny side of rubbish when Aussie comedy stars Tripod head to The Joan to celebrate World Environment Day. On Sunday, June 4 the musical comedy trio will curate a free family arts festival hosted by Penrith City Council.

The afternoon will kick-off with World Environment Sun-Day at the Mondo greenspace outside The Joan. Residents will learn all about how to embrace recycling, upcycling and waste reduction.

Food trucks will be on hand to keep guests well fed, and there’ll be plenty of fun enviro-focused entertainment including ‘The Fast and the RefuseRious’ and ‘Wheelie?’, plus roving musicians and local bands.

If you love short films then head along

to The Joan foyer to check out entries from the inaugural ‘Binema Film Festival’.

Once the sun goes down Tripod will headline the adults-only Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala, which will feature some of Australia’s hottest comedians including MC Rhys Nicholson and Luke Heggie.

World Environment Sun-Day will be held on Sunday, June 4 from 12pm to 4pm at the Mondo greenspace outside The Joan. The Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala will be on at The Joan at 7pm.

This is a free event but tickets must be reserved for the comedy gala. For more information, visit www.thejoan.com.au or call 4723 7600.

MAY 20 - JUNE 4

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Rockin’ the classics KATE REID

N

ext month lovable entertainer Scott McRae returns to the Evan Theatre with his hit show ‘Stevie and The Easybeats’.

Co-written and produced by Scott himself, the show takes audiences on a journey through the highs and lows of the life of iconic frontman Stevie Wright, from the 60s through to the 80s.

Scott, along with some of the country’s best musicians, will use words, songs, multimedia and acting to tell the fascinating story of one of Australia’s greatest rock acts.

The show features 19 hits including

‘Friday On My Mind’, ‘She’s So Fine’, ‘Evie’, ‘Good Times’, ‘Hard Road’, ‘Women (Make You Feel Alright)’, ‘I’ll Make You Happy’ and many more.

Panthers fans will recognise Scott from his role as ground announcer at Pepper Stadium.

Don’t miss seeing this much-loved honorary local live in this rockumentary extravaganza.

Grab your tickets for this wonderful event now!

‘Stevie and The Easybeats’ will be on at the Evan Theatre at Penrith Panthers on Friday, June 9 at 8pm. Tickets are $22-$27. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.penrith. panthers.com.au or call 4720 5555.

Angelic

vocals meet b +2 ."- +

SONGS OF THE LATIN SKIES

World Music

Meets Jazz

SUNDAY 11 JUNE 5pm KATIE NOONAN & KARIN SCHAUPP Angelic vocals meet lyrical and fiery guitar as two of Australia’s most loved female artists perform music with a Latin flavour.

Group Discounts

Subscribe & Save

STANDARD $55 CONCESSION $50 CHILD $15

BOOKINGS | THEJOAN.COM.AU | 4723 7600 WW23117

JOAN SUTHERLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE 597 HIGH STREET PENRITH WW27984

51

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

6 JUNE

• Half page ad & half page advertorial creating a great full page for your business

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW

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Contact us today on sales@westernweekender.com.au • (02) 4722 2998 WW27005

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre 597 High Street Penrith

thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600 WW28079

We are a truly Independent paper servicing Penrith for over 25 years.

52

TICKETS

Standard $45 / Sta Concession $40

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the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Travis adds a special touch

2

017 has been a big year for country star Travis Collins.

At the Tamworth Country Musical Festival in January he took home three Golden Guitars for Song of the Year, Single of the Year and Male Artist of the Year.

Travis will be bringing all that musical talent to Rooty Hill RSL this June with his brand new show ‘Hits and Other Bits’.

Instead of a support act, Travis will open the evening with an acoustic set featuring songs that don’t normally make it onto the tour set list.

“I’ve been blown away to learn just

how many people want to hear the more ‘hidden’ tracks, never released to radio or CMC (Country Music Channel),” Travis said.

“I’ve been extremely moved by this and wanted to find a way to include these ‘fan favourites’ into a show, without having to remove other songs to fit them”.

Travis will follow up his acoustic set with all his biggest hits played live with the backing of a full band, making this the ultimate fan experience.

Travis Collins will bring his show ‘Hits and Other Bits’ to Rooty Hill RSL on Friday, June 2 at 8pm. Tickets are $20-$25. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.rootyhillrsl.com.au or call 9677 4916.

What’s on at your Club KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LTD 1490 Elizabeth Drive Kemps Creek NSW 2178 | (02) 9826 1375 www.kcsb.com.au | reception@kcsb.com.au | Find us on Instagram @kempscreeksportingbowling

WW28016

“It’s nice

“

KATE REID

out here

’

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, May 19 Acoustic Soloist – Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Mary’s DJ – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Dean’s Karaoke with Freddie – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 2060 Lachlan Bryan and The Weeping Willows – Rooty Hill RSL $20, 8pm 9677 4916 Too Many Guitars – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Rolling Stoned – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Skyz The Limit – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Best of You: Foo Fighters Show – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384

Soundbird – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Steppin’ Out – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Soundproofed – Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Free entry, 8pm 9670 3050 Jed Zarb – Terrace Bar at Panthers Free entry, 9pm 1800 061 991 The Kings of Country – Evan Theatre $44.50, 8pm 4720 5555

Circus Oz The Joan 4723 7600 Friday, May 26, 7.30pm, $55-$60

The Animals Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Saturday, May 20, 8.00pm, $55

Bowie: Ashes to Ashes Evan Theatre 4720 5555 Friday, May 19, 8.00pm, $59-$69

Sunday, May 21 Pro Wrestling – Rooty Hill RSL $15, 2pm 9677 4916 Rockin Eddie – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Australian Bee Gees Show: 40th Anniversary – Evan Theatre $37.50, 2.30pm 4720 5555 ACO Ensemble & Penrith Strings – The Joan $10-$15, 3pm 4723 7600

Saturday, May 20

Friday, May 26

Geoff Bull & The Finer Cuts – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 Beethoven’s Ninth – The Joan $28-$60, 8pm 4723 7600 Lisa Crouch & Dig This – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777

Acoustic Soloist – Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Mary’s DJ – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Dean’s Karaoke with Freddie – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 2060 Todd McKenney Sings Peter Allen – Evan Theatre

$59.85, 8pm 4720 5555 Lots of Laughs Comedy Night – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 8pm 9677 4916 Friday Night Lights – The Joan Free entry, 5.30pm 4723 7600 Robbie & Kylie Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Soundproofed – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 2 Way Split – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Down Thunder – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384

Saturday, May 27 Di Bird Red Hot & Blue – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase – Evan Theatre $35-$39, 8pm 4720 5555 Are you ready to laugh?

Mary’s Karaoke – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 Get your singing voices ready!

Planet Groove – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Big Radio Dynamite – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Shaylee Wilde – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Crawl File, Australian Crawl Show – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4773 8888

Sunday, May 28 May Tall Timbres – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Jade Hurley – Evan Theatre Members: Free entry, Visitors: $27, 4pm 4720 5555 Blackwater – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 5pm 4722 8180 Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Saturday, May 27, 8.00pm, $44-$74

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O D UST

M

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Jordan Springs & Surrounds Women’s Community Group JS-WCG@outlook.com Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Penrith Evening NSA Branch First Tuesday of each month Seniors Centre • 0439 296 423 Lung Support Group Second Wednesday of each month • 4733 8926 30-plus Singles Group Meets Friday nights at Penrith RSL • 0418 254 229 Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at Nepean Hospital • 1300 133 878 GenYQ Business Networking Six meetings per year www.genyq.com.au

Take a look inside your local fire station Spend a day with the brave men and women of the fire service at the Fire & Rescue NSW annual Open Day this Saturday, May 20. Most stations across NSW will be open between 10am and 2pm and families are encouraged to come along to get to know their local firefighters and learn all about fire prevention. For more information about the Open Day, including which stations will be open, visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au. This is great fun for the entire family.

Penrith NASHO’s May 21 at 10.30am Penrith RSL • 0448 983 399

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Emu Plains Lions Club New members always needed • 4735 5120

Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Wednesdays • 0407 077 143

Why not give yoga a try this weekend?

Test your skills as a performance driver, a world class baller and more with over 70 arcade games at Playtime in the Panthers complex.

Embrace your inner yogi with Saturday morning yoga classes at the Penrith Seniors & Pensioners Club. Call 4721 0609 for details.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

OUT NOW WON T UO GAME The Surge Rated MA PC, PS4, XBox One

DVD Manchester By The Sea Rated MA

Casey Affleck comes to the small screen this week in the film that earned him his first Oscar win.

In this emotional drama, Lee Chandler (Affleck) is forced to take on the role of sole guardian to his teenage nephew, Patrick, after the death of his older brother Joe. Reluctantly, Lee takes leave from his janitor job in Boston and returns to his family’s home town of Manchester-by-the-Sea to care for Patrick.

Upon his return he comes face to face with his past including his ex-wife Randi (Michelle Williams) and the community where he was raised.

‘Manchester By The Sea’ was one of the big winners during this year’s awards season, taking home numerous accolades including Oscars for Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay, and a Golden Globe for Best Actor.

If you missed it, now’s your chance!

CINEMA John Wick: Chapter 2 Rated MA

Put yourself in the middle of Earth’s dystopian future in the new action RPG ‘The Surge’.

In a world ravaged by the effects of war and global warming, gamers will fight to survive the CREO complex, a megacorporation that set out to save the world.

As you try to uncover the truth about CREO you will fight against your enemies using a range of different armour and weapons, including a customisable exo-suit which provides the wearer with super-human strength.

This game has been enjoying rave reviews, so it may be worth a look!

In 2014 audiences were introduced to action’s latest lead character in the surprise hit ‘John Wick’.

This week Keanu Reeves brings the ex-hitman back to the big screen with the release of ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’.

John Wick’s plans for a quiet civilian life are interrupted when a former associate decides to take control of a shadowy international assassins’ guild.

Forced to honour a blood oath and help out his former associate, Wick heads to Rome where he comes up against some of the world’s most lethal opponents.

Reeves is joined on screen by his Matrix trilogy co-star Laurence Fishburne, along with Aussie actress Ruby Rose.

DIARY OF A WOMBAT

‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ has followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, earning plenty of praise from critics.

Movie review site Rotten Tomatoes described the film as the perfect sequel which manages to build on the non-stop action that made the first film such a huge hit.

If you love action thrillers but are yet to see the John Wick films, it’s well and truly time to jump on the franchise bandwagon.

‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ is currently screening at Hoyts Penrith. For more information on session times or to purchase tickets, visit www.hoyts.com. au.

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Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre 597 High Street Penrith

OUR PARTNER IN CREATIVITY

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This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

OUR PARTNER IN CREATIVITY

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

TRUE STORY JUNE 5 CHANNEL NINE

Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS Ê Hamish and Andy’s new show ‘True Story with Hamish and Andy’ finally has an airdate – Monday, June 5 at 7.30pm.

The series sees ordinary Australians recounting first-hand yarns which are then dramatised with a guest cast. Ê Sad news for fans of Tim Allen comedy ‘Last Man Standing’ after it was axed in the US after six seasons. Also getting the chop was popular Nine comedy ‘2 Broke Girls’ after six seasons. Ê The axe has also been wielded on US supernatural series ‘Sleepy Hollow’, which will wind up after four seasons. Ê ‘The Island with Bear Grylls’ returns for a fourth season at 8.35pm on Monday,

Buy 3 Bottles of Yellow Tail wine in our Bottleshop or 1 Piccolo of Yellow Tail behind our Bar to go in the running to

May 22 on SBS. It’s a battle of the ages as two separate groups from two different generations are abandoned on a pair of remote, uninhabited islands.

Ê

Comedy Channel favourite Daniel Tosh is back with new episodes of ‘Tosh.0’ on Wednesday, June 7 at 9.30pm.

Ê Foxtel has announced popular local drama ‘Wentworth’ will return for a sixth season. The Showcase prison series will return in 2018 with 12 more episodes. Ê ‘Modern Family’, ‘Chicago Fire’, ‘Chicago Med’ and ‘Chicago P.D.’ have all been renewed for new seasons. Ê

US action series ‘Gotham’ has been

confirmed to return for a fourth season as will Sherlock Holmes-inspired crime series ‘Elementary’.

Ê Legendary reality series ‘The Amazing Race’ has been renewed for a 30th season while ‘Law & Order: SVU’ and ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ will also be back. Ê If you missed Tuesday’s premiere episode of new GO! series ‘Meet the Hockers’, make sure you tune in next week.

This eight-part series, produced and narrated by Kyle Sandilands, takes a look inside Sydney-based pawnshop, Aceben.

‘Meet the Hockers’ lifts the lid on the Australian pawnshop trade, exploring the secrets of valuing items that people want to hock. It airs Tuesday nights at 8.30pm.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 ÂŤ the western weekender

Social Scene

Above:

The Mulgoa Rise High Tea was held at the Little House of Coffee earlier this month

Below:

Plenty of fun was had at Pepper Stadium last Saturday as the Panthers got home against the Warriors in the NRL

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HANNAH, HWNS customer

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the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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crossword ACROSS

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1. Colorado’s neighbour 4. Music school 8. Jakarta is there 11. Festival, ... Gras 13. French heroine, Joan ... (2,3) 15. Famous Texas fort 17. Tiny muscular contraction 18. Social media bully 20. The L of LA 21. Unfashionable 24. Belittle 27. Outlaw, Rob ...

28. Ghostly 30. Materialised 31. Rotates 33. Insanity 34. Get away 35. Quickly (1,1,1,1) 36. Fluctuate 39. Climaxed 42. Serving lass 44. Calf meat 45. Outmoded 46. Mediocre journalist 48. Mustard & ...

49. Bird claw 50. Object 52. Undersized 54. Pinnacle 55. Lettuce meal 56. Simmer with rage 57. Stew, ... bucco 60. Back section 62. Delicate 65. Unicellular organism 67. Fashion house, Calvin ...

69. Malaysian noodle dish 70. Nuzzled 72. ..., what, where, when, how 73. Scarcer 75. Insinuating (remark) 77. Brazilian metropolis 79. Incidental comment 81. Formerly named 82. Perch 84. Bumps 85. Asked (question) 86. Flexible pipe 87. Tranquillises 88. Lions’ homes

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Tolkien (1,1,1) 9. Squirrel nut 10. Profi ciently 12. Lassoed 14. Consumed (3,2) 16. Temporarily supplies 19. Also-ran 22. Beast 23. Laid off 25. Defeated 26. Laundry stiff ener 29. Trendiest 32. Race (motor) 35. Pear-shaped fruit 37. Foot joint 38. More youthful 40. Lessens 41. Was brave enough 42. Winds (one’s way) 43. Trapdoor 44. Coal seams 47. Filming machines 51. Yacht mooring facility 52. Australian acacia tree 53. Grovelling subordinate (3,3) 54. Be present 58. Indian religious group 59. Dedicatory poem 61. Ethiopia’s capital, ...

Ababa 63. Voiced (opinions) 64. Told stories 65. State boldly 66. South African farmers 68. Pork cuts 71. Wear down 72. Clean 74. The Supremes’ Diana ...

76. Naughty children 78. Singer, ... Redding 80. Buck’s mate 83. Major dictionary (1,1,1)

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

Last week’s Sudoku solution

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life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

LEO

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

You relish your independence and freedom but don’t be a lone Ram this week! Thursday night’s New Moon encourages you to find fresh ways to connect with others – both in your local neighbourhood and within your online community. You’ll also have plenty of fun fraternising with family and friends but avoid butting in, being bossy, and offering advice. Sometimes loved ones have to make their own mistakes.

TAURUS

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Lions love talking about grandiose goals, divine dreams and spectacular schemes.

The New Moon encourages you to walk your talk, as you put those plans into productive action. Don’t just dream about it – get out there and do it! Networking is also favoured, as you expand your local and international connections. But there’s more to a current situation than meets the eye, so strive to keep your Cat curiosity under control.

VIRGO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

It’s a wonderful week to take stock of your current financial situation and find novel new ways to boost cash flow. The more proactive you are, the better. But Pluto could also stir up your jealous side, as you become increasingly demanding and possessive about a person or possession. Thursday’s New Moon is in Gemini, and you have much to learn from your zodiac neighbour.

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Virgos are certainly clever and capable.

The question is – are you creative and confident enough for big time success?

Thursday night’s New Moon’s charges up your career zone, but you won’t get ahead if you waste time making massive mountains out of miniscule molehills.

A wonderful opportunity is heading in your direction, however you’ll have to be proactive and grab it when it appears!

GEMINI

LIBRA

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Joanne Madeline Moore Weekly posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2017

With the Sun, New Moon and Mars all in Gemini, the world will get a triple-dose of your quick-witted quips. Just make sure your playful chatter doesn’t denigrate into gratuitous gossip. It’s the best time of the year to refresh your physical appearance; update your wardrobe; review your personal beliefs; plus launch a website, blog, book or social media campaign.

Whatever you do, make sure you use your communication skills to motivate others.

CANCER

You’re keen to retreat into your cosy Crab cave as the New Moon moves through your contemplation zone. Solo activities like yoga, meditation and reading are favoured this week. But if you stumble and make a mistake, don’t let negative self-talk drag you down. Joan Collins: “Show me a person who has never made a mistake, and I’ll show you somebody who has never achieved much”.

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Do your best to steer clear of power games that may surface in a close relationship.

Keep your cool Libra! Thursday’s New Moon activates your travel zone so a heavenly holiday is likely sometime over the coming year. But it won’t happen unless you take action ASAP via a spontaneous booking or a smart savings plan. Plus take a good long look at your aspirations for the future – they need to be creative, ambitious, flexible and fun.

SCORPIO

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

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When it comes to managing a joint financial matter, Mars and the New Moon encourage you to be proactive and have a flexible plan. Pluto also urges you to look at a current problem in a deep and meaningful way. The situation is in the process of transforming in an organic fashion, so avoid obsessing and trying to force change. Instead, do your best to be much more pliable and relaxed.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Under the blessings of the New Moon, it’s the best week of the year to join a dating site, start a romance, propose, get married, renew your wedding vows, reboot a rickety relationship or launch a joint venture. Attached Archers – talk through potential problems with your spouse. Singles – look beyond the exterior package that a potential partner presents.

Killer curves or bulging biceps may seem enticing but communication is key.

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

your

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

This week’s New Moon encourages you to adjust your home/work ratio so that it’s more balanced – and much more family-friendly. With harmony planet Venus visiting your home zone, do all you can to bypass domestic dramas and repair family friction. It’s time for strategic Goats to sit down and smoke the pipe of peace! A loved one, close friend or colleague could also test your limited patience.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The New Moon urges you to build bridges with a child or teenager, initiate a fabulous new friendship, start a challenging sport, or take up a hobby you’ve always been interested in. But has an old friendship finally run out of steam? Or is a fair-weather friend criticising your behaviour and holding you back? You are urged to review your peer group, discard negative influences, and surround yourself with positive people.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

With the Sun, New Moon and Mars highlighting your domestic zone, it’s a wonderful week to entertain family and friends at home with an impromptu Piscean meal. Convivial conversation is a bonus. Being of service to others also brings much joy and satisfaction.

Ralph Waldo Emerson: “You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late”.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

your

food

Healthy options to beat those hearty winter cravings We all chase a bit of comfort food during the colder months, but there’s plenty of tasty, healthy alternatives available for us to try...

Kate Reid Nutritionist kate.reid@ westernweekender.com.au @kate_reid6

We’re coming into that time of the year when we start to crave hearty, warming, comfort foods.

Unfortunately this can often translate into high fat, high salt, nutrient-lacking foods.

If you’re looking for the comfort factor, without bingeing on hot chips, here’s some tips to get you started.

Bake those veggies Salad just doesn’t cut it at this time of year, so instead try baking vegetables with some olive oil and your favourite seasonings such as garlic or thyme. Add a little gravy and you’ve got vegetables that even the fussiest kids will enjoy. To save time you can also bake a load of vegetables to reheat over the coming days.

Rethink the soup Some varieties of soup can be a little watery and boring, so if you’re after something with a bit more personality noodle soup is the way to go. Whether you like a Malaysian laksa, a Thai tom yum goong, a Japanese udon, a Vietnamese pho or a simple favourite like chicken

Be front of mind for tax time

noodle soup, these dishes tend to be quite hearty, with plenty of vegetables and loads of flavour.

Warm up your breakfast Cold mornings are about as appealing as a hot dog in a lettuce leaf, but you can make those early hours a little more enjoyable by swapping soggy cereal for a warming bowl of oats. If you hate oats, like I used to, try getting creative with added extras like crunchy peanut butter, a little brown sugar and slices of banana.

It’s also good to remember that while we think of certain foods as ‘breakfast foods’

there really are no rules when it comes to what you eat at different times of the day. If you prefer a lunch or dinner-style meal then tuck into some leftovers for breakfast instead.

Don’t forget the drinks One of the quickest and easiest ways to warm up those insides is with a hot drink.

Tea is a great choice as there’s plenty of flavours to try whether you prefer a spicy chai or a fruity blend. A skim hot chocolate is another good option when you’re craving a chocolate hit but don’t want to go to town on a block of chocolate.

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org Gartelmann is a naturally curious fellow, something that, together with low yields in some years from his own Hunter Valley vineyard, has led him to look further afield to augment his grape supply.

Initially it was to relatively nearby NSW regions such as Orange, Mudgee and Rylestone, but a couple of years ago the search was widened further.

“The 2014 vintage began with promise, with some excellent fruit harvested, but the very low yields inspired us to look at various options for blending,” said Jorg.

“We sourced a number of small parcels of fruit from outside of the region and experimented with various blends. A South Australian Clare Valley component complemented our Hunter Valley fruit beautifully, adding swaths of complexity and further depth of flavour to the Pokolbin material.”

And so it was that Jorg and his wife Jan’s flagship red, the Gartelmann Diedrich Shiraz, named in honour of his grandfather, which has been traditionally made from old-vine shiraz from the Hunter Valley, for the 2014 vintage includes 44 per cent Clare Valley shiraz.

As Jorg points out, while he is constantly aiming to create single vineyard wines he certainly isn’t the first to blend South Australian fruit into Hunter Valley wines.

It’s something that was even done by the late, great, truly iconic Maurice O’Shea.

The inclusion of Clare Valley material hasn’t detracted one jot from my love for this traditionally rich, opulent red that rightly sits at the top of the Gartelmann tree.

Grab yourself a bottle and try it for yourself.

JOHN ROZENTALS

look

Layers are the key for men during the colder months

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

your

Men have plenty of stylish options to choose from...

Alyce Madden For the latest trends follow @westfieldpenrith on Instagram

As stylish as it is practical, most of us look forward to layering in winter.

Practice now before the chill really sets in and you can pull off this stylish technique that can transform your winter outfits!

AW17 for men’s fashion is proving to be the season for layering. Celebrities like Kanye West are featuring a 90’s athleisure angle with Adidas tracksuit pants rolled up to show sneakers off and retro puffer jackets over hoodies that are not only warm but super comfy!

For streamlined street style pick a colour theme and work with it. For a versatile neutral look start with this season’s staple piece, a cream/beige hoodie, and pair with a khaki bomber jacket straight over the top.

Accessorise in all black tracksuit pants.

The Nike modern slim jogger from Glue Store are perfect.

Finish with a black cap and fresh black sneakers, New Balance men’s 247 breathe are a super light and flexible pair easy to wear every day.

You won’t be layering multiple pairs of pants, so stick to your basics you have already to work with. Instead invest that extra change into a new wind jacket or heavy duty coat.

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mastering winter layering. If you are working with a lot of greys and blacks while piling the coats and jumpers, wake up your look and add interest with bold patterns and colours for your knitted wear.

Stripes and anything red work well, also textured ribbed styles.

The final tip for winter is if you pass on wearing your favourite beanie because it makes your head itch, consider cashmere instead. Sure it’s definitely more expensive than wool but it will last longer and comfort is priceless.

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The most wearable layering technique for when it’s extra chilly is the shirt/ knit/jacket combo. Start with a chunky sweater like a cable knit or a jumper with a graphic logo or design on it. Pick a fine cotton slim button down shirt, something like plaid or fine flannel works well, pair this with your knit and layer over a longer heavy duty coat.

The contrast of textures and lengths will give you a stylish look that says you definitely know what you are doing.

It’s not a winter without scarves and beanies. Accessories play a big part in

63

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

your

The signs that may suggest your dog or cat has arthritis

pets

Arthritis doesn’t just affect humans, in fact heading into winter it’s important we keep an eye on our furry friends....

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

Coming into the cooler months, we often see arthritis in our pets. Arthritis is a painful and debilitating condition caused by wear and tear on the joints, leading to joint inflammation and degeneration. We typically see arthritis in older, large and active dogs. However smaller, less active dogs and cats can be affected.

Early onset arthritis is a common complication of other joint issues. This can include congenital problems like hip, elbow or shoulder dyplasia and patella luxation. Cruciate rupture is a common injury in both young and old dogs that requires surgical repair. Even with surgery we expect to see arthritis develop in the affected joint.

Signs of arthritis developing are commonly an animal appearing stiff, having difficulty rising and seeming to be generally slowing down. This can progress to lameness, reduced exercise intolerance and behavioural changes.

Some animals may snap or growl when touched if an area is very painful. Some dogs will collapse and not be able to walk.

Cats will often have more subtle signs of

pain than dogs. Owners may see reduced grooming, reduced appetite, increased sleeping and reluctance to jump onto high surfaces. Cats will often start to make multiple smaller jumps like using a chair to get on a table rather than jumping directly onto the table. As they are generally less active, it can be easier to miss the signs of arthritis in cats.

Arthritis can be diagnosed by radiographs of the joints. A general anaesthetic is often required to enable correct positioning for radiographs to be taken. This also screens for more serious diseases like bone cancer. If joint abnormalities

are ruled out referral for more advanced imaging (CT or MRI) to look at the soft tissues and nerves may be required. A presumptive diagnosis of arthritis can be made on clinical signs and history.

Treatment can often be started before radiographs are taken or if an anaesthetic is deemed unsafe for a patient.

Happily, there are a range of treatments available to slow the progress of arthritis and manage pain effectively. Dietary supplements including omega 3 oils, glucosamine, chondroitin and rosehip reduce joint inflammation. Prescription diets are available that have supplements manufactured into the food. There are oral pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications, similar to those we use in humans. A blood screen to assess the liver and kidney function are recommended before long term use of these medications in older dogs and cats. There is a series of injections for arthritis in dogs and cats unique to the veterinary world.

The injections are given weekly for four weeks and the effects will normally last for six to 12 months. They reduce joint inflammation, provide building blocks for cartilage and helps to thicken the joint fluid. Acupuncture, which we offer at our clinic, can be used in conjunction with medical therapy and supplements to help improve mobility and reduce pain.

For more details, please call our clinic to have a chat.

Coreen Avenue

Veterinary Clinic

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health

How physiotherapy can help people suffering with cancer A cancer diagnosis changes our lives, but having the right support in place can make the journey a little easier...

Joanne Wholahan Physiotherapist OnePointHealth 4732 5188 onepointhealth.com.au

The day someone is diagnosed with cancer is a day they never forget.

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer impacts both physically and psychologically on those with cancer as well as affecting their family and friends.

Cancer treatments can have many side effects which are as debilitating as the cancer itself. Some patients may require urgent biopsies and invasive surgeries creating pain and tissue trauma.

Treatment then may go on to include chemotherapy, radiation and/or medication.

People become patients and often feel their lives have become one medical appointment after another. Suddenly life can bear little resemblance to what it was, with a fear that normality will never return.

Cancer Rehabilitation provides support to people who are affected by cancer, helping them take small steps on the road to recovery.

It helps to reduce the burden and impact of cancer on patients and their families.

Physiotherapy guides and supports and

encourages patients with cancer through each phase of treatment from early diagnosis, through surgery, during chemo/ radiation and into survivorship.

A cancer trained physiotherapist teaches patients what they can do to get stronger again and help patients understand why their body is reacting to the treatments.

Physiotherapists provide cancer patients with information to help them feel more in control of their body and life again.

Cancer rehabilitation aims to: • Optimise physical and functional recovery • Ease pain and muscular tension • Regain strength and mobility

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

your

• Increase energy levels and improve breathing • Strengthen core and improve posture • Reclaim body confidence and control • Reduce treatment related side effects • Shift focus from illness to wellness It is suitable for any type of cancer surgery or treatment and accommodates all ages, fitness levels and mobility.

Physiotherapy helps launch patients back into the community to lead a fulfilling life and achieve goals they never thought possible.

Physiotherapy also continues to provide support to cancer patients years after active treatment has ceased.

Take the first steps to recovery and visit a PINC Physiotherapist near you.

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65

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

your

money

Helping hand to buy a home, but you need to be careful Those wanting to buy their first home need to do their homework on last week’s Budget promise...

Alex McKenzie Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

One of the proposals in last week’s Federal Budget was the introduction of the First Home Super Saver Scheme. The aim of the policy is to make it easier for first home owners to enter the market.

From July 1 2017, individuals will be able to make voluntary contributions (eg salary sacrifice and non-concessional contributions) of up to $15,000 per year and $30,000 in total, to their super account to purchase a first home. These limits apply to each individual, so a couple can contribute up to $30,000 per year and $60,000 in total.

Voluntary contributions under this scheme must be made within existing super caps.

Withdrawals of the contributed amounts along with the deemed earnings will be allowed from July 1, 2018. The amount of earnings that can be released will be calculated using a deemed rate of return based on the 90-day Bank Bill rate plus three percentage points (currently this equates to 4.78 per cent).

The withdrawals of concessional contributions and associated earnings will be taxed at the individual’s marginal

tax rate, less a 30 per cent tax offset.

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

The First Home Super Saver Scheme will be administered by the Australian Tax Office (ATO), which will determine the amount of contributions that can be

released and will instruct super funds to make these withdrawal payments.

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

The essence of the scheme is that we are able to get concessions for saving for our first home.

No doubt, this is a good thing but, there are limitations. Most notably, it is only for the FIRST home, which is fine, except in the situation that your partner already owns or has owned a property. If this is the case, then money you have contributed to super with the aim of buying a property will not be able to be withdrawn and may remain preserved.

The investment strategy for these savings should be different to the strategy for the rest of the funds in superannuation.

I fear many may get this wrong. The funds for the home will have a short timeframe and should be invested far more conservatively than funds with the purpose to provide income in retirement.

Funds for super can risk short term loss for long term gain. This is not the case with a house deposit.

This is definitely not a one-size-fits-all strategy for those saving for their first home but, in many cases, it is a another strategy that can help us achieve our goals.

ln times of crisis, you can give Please donate now salvos.org.au | 13 SALVOS 66

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religion

An extraordinary message we should all take notice of

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

your

Veteran Weekender writer John Lavender says we need to listen more to the things that matter and really mean something...

Rev John Lavender www.glenmorepark anglican.com.au and on Facebook

Quite often we’ll hear something so extraordinary that at first we cannot take it in.

We’re thinking, “Let me look at that again! Is that what it really says?”

In the Bible’s Old Testament book of Isaiah we read these remarkable words as God speaks through His spokesman, the prophet Isaiah.

“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread and your labour on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me that your soul may live.”

What makes this so extraordinary, is that in life, so many people do exactly the opposite of what God is saying!

So many of us spend all our money and put all our labour and efforts into what does not satisfy and what will not last.

The sad reality is so much of what we make or build or work for, when we die,

we cannot take it with us. God challenges us to have an eternal perspective; to desire those things that last into eternity.

If you want what is really “good”, if you want to “delight in the richest of fare” and to enjoy what is the best, then the Bible is saying “Come to God – listen to Him”.

And what is so encouraging is that it has been the experience of millions of Christian people throughout history, that when you do come to God and when you do listen to Him, “your soul will live!”

Have a great weekend and I’ll see you in next week’s paper.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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Please send all applications, résumés and inquiries to Wayne at Wayne@cassolakitchens.com.au or Call Wayne on 0418 422 346. Start ASAP

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

Sport

NETBALL

Panthers set to shoot for glory p.77

It’s musical chairs at Wanderland

Vice captain Mitch Nichols will not return to the Western Sydney Wanderers next season. Photo: Megan Dunn NATHAN TAYLOR

or yet another year, Western Sydney Wanderers fans will have to endure a rebuild after the club parted ways with a number of players last week.

Wanderers captain Dimas along with Mitch Nichols, Scott Neville, Bruno Pinatares, Ryan Griffiths, Liam Youlley, Stefan Zinni and Emilio Martinez won’t be at Western Sydney next season while Argentine marquee Nicolas Martinez and midfielder Terry Antonis will return to their parent clubs following the conclusion of their loan deals.

Passionate fans were fuming on social media following the announcement, fed up with constant line-up changes.

F

Dimas, who took over as skipper after the departure of Nikolai Topor-Stanley at the start of last season, made 58 appearances and scored six goals in his two seasons at Wanderland.

The 34-year-old midfielder arrived from Spain and immediately established himself as one of the league’s premier midfielders, playing a key role in Western Sydney’s charge to the 2016 Grand Final.

Vice captain Mitch Nichols also says farewell after two strong seasons at the Wanderers, where he scored 13 goals in his 63 appearances.

The 28-year-old midfielder will look back on his time at the Wanderers fondly, particularly on his debut season with the club, in which he was selected in the PFA Team of the Season and named both the Members’ Player of the Year and the

winner of the Rod Allen Award for Media Player of the Year.

However, Nichols’ time at the Wanderers has ended in controversy with news this week that he has been charged with possession of cocaine at a nightclub.

Scott Neville, who will next link up with Perth in 2017/18, departs after spending the past two seasons at the Wanderers, making 60 appearances and netting three goals, including a sensational strike in last year’s A-League Grand Final.

Uruguayan Bruno Pinatares will say goodbye after making 21 appearances across all competitions, as will striker Ryan Griffiths who made seven appearances in his short time.

The club this week announced the signings of Roly Bonevacia, Josh Risdon and Michael Thwaite.

Wanderers skipper Dimas is also gone

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73

Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

Meet The President

Proud of the past but the future is what Penrith Baseball Club President Elia Soo Kee says the sport is kicking big goals but still has plenty to NATHAN TAYLOR

The Weekender’s Meet The President series introduces you to the people in charge of our local sporting clubs. This week, we chat with Penrith Baseball Club President, Elia Soo Kee...

How long have you been the President of the Penrith Baseball Club for?

Since April this year.

How long have you been involved with the club and what were your roles?

I have been a part of Penrith Baseball Club for five years now. Initially I enjoyed the roles that many parents contribute to their sports club in terms of canteen shifts and helping with events.

More recently I have held the role of Club Secretary and last season I worked on the sponsorship sub-committee where I, among other things, had the opportunity to assist in the organisation of several successful club events throughout the season.

As President, explain what your role entails?

I am fortunate to be surrounded by a dedicated executive committee who are as passionate about the sport as I am which,

Elia Soo Kee is hoping to grow the game of baseball locally. Photo: Melinda Jane in itself, leads to a great deal of teamwork to allow processes to unfold smoothly. As President I have the opportunity to liaise with local and wider stakeholders, to increase the presence and development of Penrith Baseball in our community.

Part of this will be the continued work to encourage coach and player retention and ongoing development.

The expansion of the junior club is another area where I will have the opportunity to engage with our current

PH:

members and work towards recruiting and welcoming new members. I am particularly excited to be extending the opportunities for our All Needs teams again after a successful first season.

How did you fall in love with the sport?

I’m probably very different to many others that you will find fulfilling this type of role. I don’t have a story growing up in the sport, in fact, I did not truly ‘discover’ the sport on a personal level until around 2010 when my children began playing

t-ball with a local softball club. Within months we attended our first professional game to watch the Sydney Blue Sox and I was an immediate convert to the sport.

There is just something special about watching the way a game unfolds, the multiple outcomes every time a ball is put in play, and the skill involved in executing each play.

After two seasons with t-ball, we moved to Penrith Baseball and the rest, as they say, is history.

What are some of the challenges/issues facing baseball locally?

Firstly, the overall promotion of the game through the media and local outlets.

We rely on Internet streaming to watch games we can’t attend and rarely will you see publicity outside of the official baseball channels. A benefit for us locally is we do get support from the local papers for both individual players and the wider club, for that we thank you.

Secondly, we are competing with other, more established sports with higher profiles where they receive government funding and resources from larger sporting organisations such as rugby league and cricket. These sports receive greater media coverage and community interaction as a whole, due to the nature of their

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counts for baseball achieve as it grows throughout the Penrith region history across the country. Right now we are working towards boosting the face of our game where children are considering baseball as a sport from early on.

If you could improve one area of your sport on a local level, what would it be?

I would have to say the continued improvement of the grounds across the association in order to provide good playing and training facilities for junior development and to allow the sport to continue to grow here at a local level.

Are you happy with the amount of Local or State Government funding your club receives or could you do with more financial help?

We have been fortunate to recently receive a grant that is allowing us to improve our facilities at Andrews Road Baseball Complex.

However, there is still a lot of work to be done and grants do not always cover the full costs of work to be carried out.

For example, new lights at Andrews Road would allow us to bring our mid-week Major League games back home which, in itself, would boost the sport locally.

Government funding that is provided allows the club to become self sufficient without having to raise money for ground improvements and resources. If we could

save this money, we could then put it back into boosting memberships across the clubs themselves and overall player development from a grassroots level.

There are always plenty of success stories about baseball in the Western Weekender, what is the one thing you are most proud of?

The number of players we have playing on a representative level is exciting. This includes those playing for Australia and/ or NSW in both the Men’s and Women’s leagues, and those playing in the ABL (Australian Baseball League). The past few years we have had several players fulfilling these roles and currently we have 13 players from Penrith Baseball Club representing their associations at the Senior League Australian Championships.

The ability to retain these elite players at Penrith Baseball is something that I personally am very proud to be a part of.

How many registered members does Penrith Baseball currently have and how do you plan to grow the game?

We currently have just under 400 registered members at Penrith Baseball including juniors from our U7s t-ball sides through to U17s senior league, senior teams, Women’s and Major League players as well as our new All Needs team

Penrith Baseball Club President Elia Soo Kee. Photo: Melinda Jane members. We will continue to grow the game through local advertising and by providing a service where players look forward to returning each season.

We are currently working on growing our social media presence, which will give us another avenue for the promotion of the club at a local level.

Looking into your crystal ball, where do you see baseball locally in five years time?

In five years time, I would hope to see a growing junior base within our club and across the association as well as continued success at both representative and State League level.

We have been awarded the Greater Western Baseball Association Club Championship for many years and I would hope to see this continue.

We are the only State League Grade club in our association and pride ourselves on our First Grade wins in 2015 and 2016 and having both 18s, Women’s and First Grade play finals this past season was again remarkable.

In five years time, improved facilities will also allow us to be in a better position to prepare our junior players for the opportunity to play baseball at higher levels within Australia and overseas.

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Netball

Panthers shape up for second season New recruits set to lead the way as Netball NSW Premier League competition gets underway NATHAN TAYLOR

he Panthers U20s team will seek back to back titles while the Panthers Opens team are hoping for a bit of luck this season when the second Netball NSW Premier League (NNSWPL) competition gets underway next week.

Featuring eight franchises from across the state, the NNSWPL is a mid-week netball competition aimed at attracting the best current and emerging talent within NSW. Made up of players and officials from Penrith, Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury Netball Associations as well as recruits from around the state and country, the Panthers Opens team will once again be coached by Netball NSW Hall of Famer and former Australian representative Lisa Beehag.

After a shocking debut season due to injury and player availability, Beehag is hoping her second year in charge of the Panthers is a much more fruitful one.

“Injuries and players unavailable due to clashes with the representative season really hurt us last year,” she said.

“We lost our best shooter and our goal

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The Panthers U20s and Opens Netball NSW Premier League teams at Pepper Stadium last weekend. Photo: Melinda Jane attack was off on rep duty all the time. We really struggled in that end of the court, which had a flow-on effect with the rest of the team.

“We also got some injuries during the season, which had a massive affect on how things played out for us.”

The Panthers Opens team have recruited exceptionally well for the upcoming 2017 season, with a number of external players – outside of the three local associations – joining the ranks.

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This guy is a volunteer favourite, he is so smoochy and has so much to offer a new family. We have no idea why his previous owners never came but this guy is hoping to meet his new owners very soon.

He is now looking for a home where his new owners will love and care for him the way he deserves. With a sweet personality and friendly nature he would be a great companion!

Beehag said she’s very excited about the new recruits.

“We have a very different squad from last year, we only have two players returning but picked up some really good replacements,” she told the Weekender.

“We’ve recruited two players from the Australian Netball League in defender Hayley Mulheron, who is the captain of Scotland, as well as Leilani Solaese, who has just been named captain of the Samoan side.

“We also picked up two really impressive players from Victoria.”

The Panthers Opens team will take on the Eastwood Ryde Netball Association Hawks during the opening round on Wednesday, May 24.

Meanwhile, the Panthers U20s team will look to defend their title when they also battle the Hawks this Wednesday evening.

Many of the 2016 squad will return for the Panthers this year including Netball NSW Coach of the Year Jaqua Heddle.

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He likes toys and has a happy fun personality.

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She is a happy bouncy pup with a lot of energy that would be a great companion for someone who jogs or goes on daily walks.

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

The shelter is in need of toys, blankets (not doonas or pillows though), treats and coats for large dogs. Please contact the shelter if you can help.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 « the western weekender

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Australian dream comes true for Chloe Story continued from » p. 80 Chloe said she even surprised herself with the way she turned around her form.

“When I first started playing, I never would’ve imagined making an Australian team,” she said.

“At the Bankstown Bruins trials I was crying I was so bad. I didn’t know the rules and couldn’t even make a simple lay-up.”

This season the Year 11 student has been playing a significant role in Penrith’s Division 1 Youth League team.

Despite the defending champions being slightly off the pace this season, Chloe topped her team in points last week with 16.

She’s confident that Penrith can still finish the year on a high.

“We had a similar slump last year and managed to turn it around,” Chloe said.

“There are a lot of different players in the side this year. One of our best players Ella Tofaeono injured herself while some of our other good players aged out.”

Chloe will soon find out whether she has made the final cut to represent Australia at the FIBA Oceania U17 Championships in Guam this July, which is the first phase of qualification for the 2019 FIBA U19 World Championships.

Either way, she’s well on her way to a career in green and gold.

MOTOR SPORT

Woods dares to dream as he soars to the top of Aussie Racing Cars ladder NATHAN TAYLOR

ingswood local Craig Woods lives a very interesting life.

During the week he’s a humble electrician but on the weekend he’s a beast on the track.

The 33-year-old races Aussie Racing Cars for local team Western Sydney Motorsport (WSM) and is currently leading the Championship after three rounds.

The Aussie Racing Cars Championship is a competition that gives amateur drivers of all ages and experience the opportunity to compete.

Unlike in other motor sports, vehicles competing in Aussie Racing Cars are 100 per cent mechanically identical with the only major difference being its fibreglass shell.

Vehicles are also three quarters the size of normal cars, so success all comes down to driver ability. Woods took up the sport after racing go-karts for years.

“I raced go-karts because I wanted to do something in motor sport and it turned out I was half decent at it,” he said.

“I then decided to test myself with actual cars, so I joined Aussie Racing Cars.”

K

Craig Woods in action on the track. Photo: Darin Mandy Woods has been a member of WSM since its inception three years ago, and is improving each and every year.

In 2015, Woods finished the season in third place while last year he finished in second. With four rounds to go, Woods’ chances of finishing on top, for the first time ever, are looking increasingly good.

“We’re leading the Championship at the moment, which is pretty cool at almost the halfway point of the season,” he said.

“It’s certainly been a good start to the year and hopefully we can keep that going.”

Woods isn’t the only WSM driver doing well this season with Blake Sciberras sitting in third overall.

“It’s a good little tussle Blake and I are having, which keeps things interesting and is pushing us to get better and better,” Woods said.

“The whole Western Sydney Motorsport team, which includes brothers Craig and Grant Thompson, are like an extended family to me.”

Woods and the rest of the WSM team will travel to Townsville for Round 4 in July.

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AUSSIE RULES: The Penrith Rams fought hard but lost to the Western Suburbs Magpies 44-31 in Round 6 of the AFL Sydney Division 2 competition. Max Macnamara and Brett Pitt scored two goals each for the Rams. Penrith will return home this Saturday to face the Pennant Hills Demons at Greygums Oval. Meanwhile, the Auburn-Penrith Giants are back in the winner’s circle, defeating the Western Wolves 61-13 in Round 6 of the AFL Sydney Premier Women’s Division competition. Melissa Brydon topscored for the Giants with six goals. The Auburn-Penrith Giants will take on the UNSW/ES Stingrays this Sunday afternoon.

AFL: The high flying GWS Giants are back to their winning ways, defeating Collingwood 102-99 in Round 8 of the AFL. Veteran Steve Johnson broke Collingwood’s hearts with a last minute goal to steal a three-point victory – their first over the Magpies

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in history. The second-placed Giants will look for back to back wins when they face the Richmond Tigers this Saturday at Spotless Stadium.

NETBALL: Giants Netball have won three straight games, defeating the competition-leading Melbourne Vixens 56-52 in Round 12 of the Super Netball competition. The four-point win sees the Giants shoot back to the top of the competition ladder with just two games remaining. Tonight the Giants will battle the Queensland Firebirds at Sydney Olympic Park. A win could seal the minor premiership for the side.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have gone down to the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles 89-85 in Round 10 of the Division 1 Youth League Men’s competition. Sean Weekes had an epic game for the Panthers scoring a massive 44 points in the narrow defeat. The Panthers will look to bounce back when they take on the Bankstown Bruins this Saturday night in Penrith. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Division 1 Youth League Women’s team managed to get another win on the board, defeating the Illawarra Hawks 67-56. Penrith’s Chloe Bloom and Dominika Offner drained 16 points each in the victory.

The Panthers will look for two in a row when they face the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles this Saturday in Penrith.

the western weekender

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RUGBY: The Penrith Emus have come agonisingly close to their first win of the season but ultimately went down to Parramatta 26-21 in Round 7 of the Shute Shield competition.

Penrith trailed 19-12 at half-time but unfortunately weren’t able to get on top of their arch rivals in the fierce Battle of the West contest. This Saturday afternoon the Emus will travel to Woollahra Oval to take on Eastern Suburbs.

the western weekender » Friday, May 19, 2017

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enrith basketballer Chloe Bloom was sitting in class last week when she suddenly burst into tears.

The 16-year-old received a text message from her mother, informing her that she had been selected in Australia’s 24-woman U17 squad.

“I was honestly so shocked, it didn’t even feel real at first,” Chloe told the Weekender.

“My mum texted me in class because I’m pretty sure she couldn’t contain herself. I cried as soon as I got it.

“My teacher and friends looked so concerned but I said ‘don’t worry; they’re tears of happiness’.”

What made Chloe’s selection even more surprising was the fact she had only took up the sport of basketball four years ago.

The 190cm centre began her playing career in Bankstown before switching to Penrith where her career really took off.

“I give the Penrith club so much credit for the player I am. I fully believe that if I didn’t move to Penrith, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” Chloe said.

Story continues on » p.78

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Penrith basketballer Chloe Bloom has been selected to represent Australia.

Photo: Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

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