Western Weekender May 3 2024

LAUGH OUT LOUD

HEAD’S UP TO PARENTS

With winter sport having now kicked off across the state, parents are being reminded to be on the lookout for any signs of a concussion in their child.

“When in doubt, sit it out,” is the message The Children’s Hospital at Westmead is send-

ing to Penrith’s young athletes this sporting season.

Professor Gary Browne, Emergency Physician and Senior Physician in Sports and Exercise Medicine at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, said its important to recognise the symptoms of a concussion early on.

“If parents just take one message away in terms of prevention of significant concussion injury, if they recognise it very early on and

they remove their child or young person and they don’t return back to play until they’re totally asymptomatic, that really has a huge impact on a concussion outcome,” he told the Weekender

According to Browne, common signs of a concussion include appearing dazed, having difficulties remembering before or after the hit, trouble moving, showing personality changes and repeating questions.

He said medical advice should be sought immediately if a child is showing serious signs like seizures, headaches, dizziness or loss of balance, nausea or vomiting, increased tiredness, light and noise sensitivity, difficulty with their vision or sleeping, numbness and problems concentrating.

ELLIE BUSBY

McIntosh pleas for more road funding

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh has taken aim at the Labor Government for failing to deliver road upgrades in western Sydney.

McIntosh was joined by Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, and Regional Development Bridget McKenzie this week in Kemps Creek where they called for the return of federal funding to road upgrades.

They stood at the corner of Fifteenth Avenue and Devonshire Road in Kemps Creek to highlight the deteriorated conditions of the roads in western Sydney.

“Bridget McKenzie the Shadow Infrastructure Minister and I are standing here in western Sydney yet again because Labor has cut funding,” McIntosh said.

“$15 million that they were meant to commit along with the NSW Government to upgrade roads around Western Sydney Airport.

“Just like this road (Devonshire Road) it has potholes, and it is in

severe need of an upgrade, but Labor’s cut the funding.”

McKenzie highlighted the need to provide improved road conditions for the growing number of residents in the area.

“Nearly three million Australians are choosing to make this region home, it’s the place to be,”

McKenzie said.

“Yet, they’ve (Labor) cut $2.5 billion worth of funding.”

McIntosh highlighted Dunheved Road as an example of the lack of progress made to western Sydney roads.

“Dunheved Road is a commitment that I made and fought for when we were in Government and Labor, at the last election in 2022, promised to fast-track the upgrade,” McIntosh said.

“But now, we are a year and a half behind schedule.”

The Dunheved Road upgrade remains a contentious topic for the Penrith community as construction was slated to commence in early 2023 but is now set to begin in mid-2024.

The $127 million upgrade on Dunheved Road between Richmond Road and Werrington

Road/Christie Street is expected to reduce traffic congestion in the area but remains stuck in the planning pipeline.

McKenzie fired shots at both Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, and Regional Development Catherine King, saying they need to do more for western Sydney.

“The Labor Party can say they’re increasing funding, can talk about fast-tracking projects [but] when you look at the Budget papers, when you look at the facts, it tells a very, very different story,” McKenzie said.

“So, Jim Chalmers [and] Catherine King, western Sydney is looking to both of you to actually make good on your word.

“Invest in the projects that this community needs to grow and thrive.”

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh and Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Bridget McKenzie. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Council turns a big profit

Penrith City Council sells Old Bathurst Road site for an eye-watering $77 million

There's been a new twist in Penrith City Council's controversial decision to purchase the former 'Rocla' site in Emu Plains three years ago.

Council last week announced that the site had been sold to Australian owned industrial developer Akura.

It is understood the sale netted $77 million.

Council controversially bought the land at 158-164 Old Bathurst Road in 2021 for $50 million, with the aim to produce a local industrial site and boost community jobs.

Council will now pass on all operations to Akura to deliver the proposed industrial hub.

Last week a Development Application (DA) lodged by Penrith City Council was approved which will see the site become an industrial centre with plans to subdivide the land.

Sydney Western City Planning Panel was brought in to independently assess the DA lodged by Council.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney expressed how the subdivision of the site will provide more local job opportunities.

“The sale of 158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains is a fantastic outcome which aligns with our strategic vision for the site,”

Carney said.

“The development of the industrial subdivision will provide much-needed space for industrial businesses as well as generating local employment opportunities during and post construction.”

Council has confirmed that the funds made from the sale will be used to deliver other services across the Penrith community.

“This is a positive outcome for the community as the proceeds from the sale will be reinvested,”

Carney said.

“This will allow Council to continue delivering high-quality services across the local government area as well as projects that will support current and future generations.”

The industrial subdivision plans are set to cost over $10 million and will produce a range of commercial lots.

“The proposed development includes the construction of new intersections, internal roads, and creation of 40 industrial lots for future development consistent with the zoning and one lot designated for storm water drainage infrastructure,” The Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the Development Application said.

Akura's Development Director, Matt Jordan, shared how the subdivision plans will provide a range of options for investors.

“The subdivision provides a range of lot sizes and will include turnkey warehouse and office facilities providing flexible options for occupiers and investors alike,” Jordan said.

The SEE also outlines plans to construct new access pathways to the site.

“The proposal includes two new intersections to access an internal road system and the proposed lots, which will not have direct access to the adjoining Old Bathurst Road or David Road,” the SEE said.

It is expected the settlement will be finalised in June.

158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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Time to fix a terribly broken system

For years now the same question has been asked: How many women will it take to be murdered by their current or former partner before legitimate government intervention takes place?

Apparently, that answer is 25.

When Molly Ticehurst became number 25 (allegedly) last month, it sparked such outrage that it appears the government will finally act, and laws will be changed. At least, we hope so.

25. It is laughable if it weren’t true.

After all, it took far less than that for the government to implement one punch laws in New South Wales a decade ago.

And politicians acted far quicker in 1996 when Martin Bryant’s rampage killed 35 people at Port Arthur, with major changes to Australia’s gun laws.

So why have we been so slow when it comes to protecting women from gendered violence?

And let’s not pretend that all the noise following Molly Ticehurst’s death will necessarily change anything.

We’ve been here before, not necessarily on this issue but countless others.

Politicians holding press conferences to make it look like they care.

Reviews and meetings organised because it’s just not good enough.

A media and PR response rather than a human one.

This time it must be different.

The way Australia responds to and handles violence against women is fundamentally broken.

Throw another broken system into the mix, being the state’s bail laws, and you have a recipe for consistent tragedy.

And none of this is new.

For years and years, there have been calls for bail laws to be reformed.

Whether it’s been Ray Hadley breathlessly arguing for tighter controls on radio, or The Daily Telegraph ’s countless front pages on this issue, the message has been there; successive governments have simply chosen not to listen.

As I have written before, wearing a white

“If police oppose bail, there should be no wriggle room. No bail.”

ribbon once a year and partaking in the odd march means nothing. Nor does talking tough, but not acting it.

This is not a Labor or a Liberal issue. All governments of all colours have their share of blame to burden them.

But right now, there is a chance for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Chris Minns to cement their legacies.

A legacy that, once and for all, tackles the issue of violence against women by their partners or former partners. A legacy judged purely by numbers and statistics.

Those numbers and statistics right now are an indictment on previous governments and the current one.

And between me writing this column and you reading it, there is every likelihood another woman has been murdered by somebody she knew.

It is simply not good enough.

John Howard’s response to Port Arthur back in 1996 created a legacy that is still spoken about to this day. Every time a mass shooting occurs in the United States, we look back at Howard’s actions in the weeks, months and years that follow and thank him for the potential disasters that we avoided.

Now, Albanese and Minns – both of whom have struggled thus far to identify their legacy – get their Port Arthur moment.

Fix this mess, and be forever remembered by it. Fix this mess, and save the lives of the next 25 women, and the 25 after that.

And while legislation changes can be time consuming and difficult to navigate, this all really seems quite simple to me.

Australia and New South Wales must develop a zero tolerance policy to violence against women by their current or former partners, or the threat of such violence.

Men who have an anathema towards women should not exist in our society.

If police oppose bail, there should be no wriggle room. No bail.

We have had enough of the system allowing accused offenders back into the community, pretending that a piece of paper is going to stop the violence.

If you’ve got it in you to hit, abuse or threaten to kill somebody you love or at least did at some point, an AVO means diddly squat. And if an offender is eventually found guilty through the legal and court process, lock them up and throw away the key. Let’s not pretend rehabilitation from that is likely. We must protect women involved in violent situations, and we must send a message that such behaviour is simply not tolerated here. Not every woman will be saved. There will those who tragically lose their lives, but I challenge anyone to tell me the number will not be reduced.

As the father of a daughter, worry has been part of life since the moment she was born. And much of it is the mundane stuff. Is she too cold? Too warm? What’s that cough? What’s that rash?

But as she gets older, and in today’s climate, the next worry is, what if she meets someone one day, falls in love, and then a little while down the track, he kills her?

How sick is it to have to worry about that. But this is the reality women face every day. And it is a fear that men can never really fully understand and comprehend.

Anthony Albanese and Chris Minns have a choice at the moment.

They either let more women die on their watch, or they be the people who changed the course of our country for the better.

Cutting the red tape

Infrastructure could be fast-tracked thanks to submission

particularly in response to Fernhill Estate.

Penrith City Council has this week endorsed a submission to the NSW Government to deliver infrastructure faster.

The submission made is in response to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s (DPHI) explanation of intended effect (EIE) for improving planning processes to deliver infrastructure, which aims to amend a series of policies that will see infrastructure delivered without prior consultation with local councils or communities.

“The overarching aims of the amendments are to make it easier and faster to deliver essential infrastructure, improve usability of existing legislation, and ensure a consistent approach between different infrastructure activities with similar characteristics,” a report to Council said.

A series of infrastructure types will be subject to this consent pathway including educational establishments, health and emergency service establishments and certain infrastructure within the Greater Sydney Parklands, including Fernhill Estate, among others.

Council made it clear they consider that the amendments don’t account for the consideration of both Council and community needs,

“In this context, the proposed amendments are considered premature, and it is recommended that Council’s submission request that the amendments not apply to Fernhill Estate to allow for sufficient time for the essential guiding plans

and documents for Fernhill Estate to be finalised,” a report to Council said.

“Secondly, Council officers raise high-level concerns that the development without consent pathway provides limited opportunities for community engagement and for

Council to assess impact arising from future uses within the Estate, including relating to heritage, environmental. Waste management, noise, and traffic, or assess the appropriateness of supporting infrastructure.”

Deputy Mayor and longtime advocate for infrastructure development Mark Davies supported the submission, but expressed concerns about the lack of consultation with local councils, particularly in relation to Fernhill Estate.

“Now, I’m one of the biggest advocates for infrastructure that’s needed in our community,” Davies said.

“But there is a right way of going about providing infrastructure and it’s about having considered approach and master planning for infrastructure.”

In relation to Mulgoa’s Fernhill Estate, Davies expressed concern over the idea that changes could be enforced without proper consideration.

“Things could happen [or] could develop at Fernhill Estate,” Davies said.

“We know that it’s a very sensitive site, there’s a lot of historic nature to this and my concern and I think the Council officer’s concerns are is that things could be done without consent and in particular without community consultation, it could just happen on the site.”

The submission will be received by today, May 3.

Business icon John Costa dies

Local business owner and former Penrith Rotary President John Costa has died aged 78. Over the years, Costa brought over 500 local people through his business, J&M Costa, as apprentices, and serviced countless individuals in Penrith. The business, which is now in its 60th year of operation, is now run by his sons, though Costa played an active role in its operation until his death.

Costa was also an active member in the community, having been involved with Penrith Rotary Club for most of his life. With the group, he was at the forefront of repairs of the Museum of Fire, and the building of Hope Cottage.

Costa’s funeral service will be held at St Nicholas of Myra on Tuesday, May 14 at 11am.

RADIO VETERAN PASSES AWAY

Australian radio and television broadcaster Graham ‘Spider’ Webb has died.

Webb started his radio career in Tamworth in 1954 and hosted numerous radio and TV programs over his 70-year career.

Webb interviewed many of the music industry’s most iconic names including The Beatles, The Monkees and The Everly Brothers. In his later years, he hosted a popular music discussion program called ‘Webby’s Wireless Show’ on Vintage FM in Penrith.

Webb’s former boss at Vintage FM Wayne Willmington said he “loved chatting with him about radio”.

Webb was 88.

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LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Werrington: Man set to be charged after siege

A man will be charged after holding a siege in a residential home.

At about 5.30pm on Tuesday, April 16, a domestic violence related argument was occurring at a residence on Victoria Street, Werrington. A triple zero call was made by a female resident and police responded.

On arrival, a male resident aged 39 was aggravated and proceeded to barricade the doors. The man then appeared in a window armed with an axe and threatened to harm himself and/or Police.

General duties officers from Nepean Police Nepean Area Command contained and negotiated with the man for a period of 90 minutes.

The man handed over three axes and surrendered to Police without the use of force and no injuries were sustained by any person involved.

The man was taken to Nepean Hospital for a mental health assessment. Upon the man’s release from hospital, he will be charged with the relevant offences by Police.

Emu Plains: Two men charged after assault at local watering hole

Two men have been charged after assaulting a manager and resisting arrest.

At about 8pm on Thursday, April 25, a 22-year-old man from Glenmore Park and a 50-year-old man from Hassall Grove were part of a group that were attempting to enter the Log Cabin Hotel in Emu Plains.

The two men argued with security personnel and a manager of the premises before assaulting the manager. Security intervened and called Police.

On Police arrival, the 22-year-old man attempted to flee but was apprehended after a short distance and then resisted arrest.

While Police were attempting to affect the arrest, the 50-year-old man approached and attempted to physically intervene. OC (capsicum) spray was used and both men were arrested. A female Police officer sustained an injury to her hand as a result.

Both men were arrested and charged. The 22-year-old man will next appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 28. The 50-yearold man will next appear in Penrith local Court on Thursday, May 16.

St Marys: Woman arrested after brawl dispersed Police arrested a woman with a knife before

dispersing a brawl.

At about 8.50pm on Thursday, April 25, Police received multiple calls from the public regarding a brawl at the intersection of Phillip Street and Lethbrige Street, St Marys.

On arrival, Police saw about 15 women arguing. Police intervened and separated the parties.

A 23-year-old woman from Bidwell was arrested for having custody of a knife in a public place. A young person was detained and removed to prevent a further breach of peace.

A 61-year-old woman from Darlinghurst was assaulted and her phone was stolen but the offended was not identified. No serious injuries were sustained, and parties dispersed without further incident.

Glenmore Park: Police appeal for information after car fire

Nepean Police are appealing to the community for information after a car fire.

At about 12.30am on Thursday, April 25, a white coloured Kia Rio was parked outside of a residence on Tall Trees Drive, Glenmore Park.

It is alleged unknown person/s have used a jerry can with petrol to set the vehicle on fire.

NSW Fire and Rescue attended and extinguished the blaze and recovered the jerry can.

Police attended and commenced an investigation.

Nepean Police Area Command are appealing to the community for witnesses or any CCTV, dash cam, or mobile phone footage.

If you have information that may assist, call Penrith Police Station on 4721 9444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

NSW: Fatalities over ANZAC Day long weekend

Five people lost their lives on the roads in NSW over the ANZAC Day long weekend.

Police were targeting double demerit offences – speeding, mobile phones, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmets – as well as drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving offences.

Police issued 4,197 speed infringements, conducted 165,604 breath tests with 256 people charged with drink driving; conducted 12,371 roadside drug tests with 637 positive detections; and attended 410 major crashes resulting in 148 people injured. There were 11,580 total traffic infringements issued, and five fatalities were recorded.

RESTRAINTS OF TRADE AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT ISSUES

One of the more challenging landscapes to traverse in life, particularly if you are in the professional services game, is leaving an employer to work for a competitor or set up your own shop.

Whether you are a real estate agent, accountant, lawyer, or other professional, there seems to be a trend in professional services for restraint of trade or non-compete or non-solicitation issues to arise when employees leave the business.

Curiously, the same trend is not present in other industries like construction or hospitality. Perhaps over time those industries have become more accustomed to having a transient workforce.

In any event, there are a number of things both employers and employees should consider in the event that their commercial relationship is coming to an end.

The first and most obvious place to start is any employment agreement or other agreement (such as a subcontractors agreement) that might dictate what the parties agree to with respect to end of relationship terms and conditions.

Almost all contracts between employer and employee or parties to a subcontract include provisions that say an employee or subcontractor cannot actively compete with or solicit clients, employees, agents, suppliers, or other stakeholders of the business to whom they are providing services. These tend to be pretty ironclad because there is a general community expectation that employees and/or contractors will not try to damage a business from within.

It is the post-employment/end of contract space that tends to be a breeding ground for more contentious fights.

There are typically two types of “restraint” that apply to a departing party to an employment/contract arrangement.

The first is known as “non-solicitation” and refers to a restraint on a departing party soliciting the business’ clients, suppliers, employees, stakeholders, and things of that nature. This also often extends to data such as databases, customer or client lists, and things of that nature. This is typically

a no-no, especially if there is a contract in place between the parties that prohibits this kind of activity.

The issue of data is an interesting one because debates often arise about who owns what data and what constitutes intellectual property. Sometimes a business owner or employer might assert ownership over a particular type of data that they do not actually own. Other times, employees or contractors think that they can take client and customer lists that are essentially the property of the business they have been working for without repercussions. While these are nuanced areas of law, both propositions are generally incorrect.

The second and arguably less certain area is that of restraint of trade and/or non-competition.

Again, it is common for non-competition provisions of an agreement to be upheld during the term of employment or during the existence of a contract.

Often however, an employment contract or subcontractors agreement will attempt to restrict a departing party from engaging in any way shape or form in a similar or competing business to the business they are leaving.

This is problematic, because quite often these types of provisions capture activities that are not actually competing with the business at all and are conversely imposing a set of onerous conditions on a person’s ability to earn an income.

Accordingly, particularly as pertains to employment relationships, there is legislation in New South Wales that says restraint of trade clauses in certain types of contracts can be challenged in Court who will rule on whether or not they are reasonable.

Generally speaking, the best advice is for employers to understand that they do not own people and sometimes employees leave a business to work for someone else and while this may be inconvenient it should not be seen as an invitation to interfere with a person’s ability to earn an income in an area in which they are trained and/or have qualifications.

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show the force this Star Wars Day

Hoyts Penrith and Glenbrook Cinema are showing ‘Star Wars’ films back-toback, Westfield has created a host of ‘Star Wars’ themed installations – May the Fourth (otherwise known as Star Wars Day) is tomorrow.

But, for some, the commemorative day is more of a lifestyle.

Kingswood resident Jason MobbsGreen has loved ‘Star Wars’ ever since he was a child, recalling times spent watching and re-watching the films on TV, purchasing toys at Target, and one particular experience which has cemented his favourite of the series for life.

“My mum took me to see ‘Attack of the Clones’ at Penrith Hoyts, and I had never seen the line that long,” he told the Weekender

“We got to the cinema maybe an hour before it started, and it was the cinema right at the back of the Hoyts, and the line went from the back of the centre, all the way down the stairs and out the front door, which is when I realised how many people liked it.”

And it’s this aspect of the series which has truly stuck with him.

“As we grow older, I think we try and find a sense of belonging, or a sense of community, and ‘Star Wars’ is definitely something that has been a big part of my life and has been with me throughout most of my life – we’re talking about six or seven and I’m about to turn 30, so it’s just something that you’ve always had ingrained in you,” Mobbs-Green said.

However, it wasn’t until the age of 18 when Mobbs-Green started collecting memorabilia.

“Before I collected ‘Star Wars’, I actually collected Marilyn Monroe, and I had this massive Marilyn Monroe room. I walked out one day and I just went, ‘Ugh, it just looks like too much of a girl’s room. Now that I’m 18, we’ll try something else’, and from there I just started getting little bits and pieces,” he said.

Now, Mobbs-Green has quite the collection, including a range of signed items, over 400 Pop!

Vinyls, life-size figurines, helmets, lightsabers, music, and even salt and pepper shakers.

Though much of it was gifted to

him or purchased in stores, MobbsGreen admitted he went to more extreme lengths to get a toy of Jango Fett’s ship from ‘Star Wars: Episode

things are going to go up in value, so you throw it all out,” he said.

“Luckily, I found someone on one of the Australian Facebook sites who was selling it and I bought it from him. It was really just for that sense of nostalgia.”

This year, Mobbs-Green said he’ll be celebrating Star Wars Day to the best of his ability.

“Normally around this time of year, I try and watch the films, but when you work full-time you can’t do it all over one day anymore and now there’s millions of them, so I think I’ll just do one a night for two weeks and see how burnt out I get by the end of it,” he said.

But, he added it’s not too late to get involved.

“There’s something for everyone, but it really is more that sense of community,” he said.

II – Attack of the Clones’.

“I had had that since a child, but obviously when you’re a kid, you’re stupid, and you don’t know that

“It starts off with you watching a fictional story and going, ‘I could be that person, I want to be in that world’, to then being able to meet people in the real world who also have that interest, and having that social link.”

Nominated Integrated Development

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Jason Mobbs-Green can’t get enough of ‘Star Wars’. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

PAGE TEN

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Pyour jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

henomenal

South Coast singer-songwriter, Kay Proudlove brings her formidable talent and infectious personality on stage in ‘Dear Diary’, directed by Merrigong Theatre Company’s own Artistic Development Manager, Leland Kean.

‘Dear Diary’ takes you on a journey through Kay’s teenage diaries through a collection of intimate and vulnerable stories and songs. A hilarious, nostalgic and sometimes painful revisiting of our teenage years, which delves into the pressures and

paceway winners lucky

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

bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-

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

The pretty wallpaper is located on the exterior of Penrith restaurant Yok Siam Thai. The restaurant can be found in one of High Street’s many incredible arcades.

expectations of growing up.

‘Dear Diary’ is on at The Joan in Penrith on Saturday, June 8 at 2pm and 7.30pm. The Weekender has one double pass to ‘Dear Diary’ to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender. com.au with ‘Diary’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, May 23 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender. com.au or Weekender reception.

way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0654, 2005, 0729.

A frown this week for the people who walked past a mother and her clearly distraught child on the Yandhai bridge on Monday. “Need any help” isn’t a tough question to ask.

Congratulations to local real estate entrepreneur Peter Diamantidis, who has just opened his fourth Ray White office. The office is located in

Council to host hospitality forum

Penrith City Council will host a Hospitality Industry Forum, which will allow local businesses to come together to discuss the hospitality sector.

“The purpose of the forum is to allow local bars, cafes and restaurants to share their stories and provide feedback on how government and business can support each other in building resilience in the area of hospitality,” said Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.

“It is a tough time for business, particularly with the cost-of-living pressures leading to reduced consumer spending, increases in rent and operating costs as well as staff shortages all affecting our local businesses.”

The forum will be held on Tuesday, May 7 from 10.00am-12.00pm at Mr Watkin’s on High Street, Penrith.

The forum’s purpose is to allow local restaurants, cafes and bars to share their stories on how they are responding to changing consumer behaviour, and how governments can help.

RSVP via CEM@penrith.city.

CANCER MEDICINE NOW ON PBS

Australians with an invasive form of early breast cancer that is at high risk of returning after initial treatment will have affordable access to the first additional type of medicine for their condition in more than 15 years.

From this week, VERZENIO (abemaciclib) has been made available through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for approximately 1,800 Australians with hormone receptor positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-), at high risk of recurrence after early breast cancer.

Currently, these patients face a one-inthree chance of their cancer coming back despite surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and ongoing hormone therapy.

“Nobody wants their cancer to return. Unfortunately, for around a third of all patients with early breast cancer, it will come back,” said Professor Fran Boyle AM, Medical Oncologist at Mater Hospital North Sydney (and an investigator in VERZENIO clinical trials).

“Patients with high risk factors are three times more likely to have their cancer return than those with low-risk characteristics, and it generally returns as incurable advanced disease.”

Eligible patients will pay just $7.70 (concession) or $31.60 (general patients) each month for VERZENIO.

Without the subsidy, the medicine would cost more than $100,000 for the two-year course of treatment, after which time the treatment is ceased.

CONCUSSION SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR

“Some of these symptoms are not immediate in young children, they can actually have their head strike or their head impact and they don’t seem to have much in the way of symptoms and they can evolve over the next few hours, sometimes over the next day or two, so that’s the importance of just recognising that head impact,” Browne added.

“The kids who do tend to have a broader range of symptoms, what we call a higher

they’ll often get sleep disturbances and mood changes and other behavioural and emotional problems as well.

“But they tend to fall in the minority of cases, the vast majority of children will often get one or two of these symptoms, the symptoms tend to resolve very quickly over a couple of days to a week.”

Browne said the current recommendation is that children who sustain a concussion while playing sport should sit out for at least 21 days before getting back in the game.

developing and the young brain takes time to really recover,” he said.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.

Kids should get their heads out of the game if they sustain a concussion playing sport.

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Brand-new space gives Unity Studios huge chance to shine

After years spent bouncing around between different venues, Unity Studios has found a more permanent home, and it’s right in the middle of Penrith. Unity Studios was started by CEO Cass Jensen in an effort to combine her loves for music and learning support teaching into one inclusive space.

“When I was a teenager up in the Mountains, there wasn’t a lot in the Blue Mountains that was community minded. I struggled with dyslexia and ADHD and a lot of things at school, and I saw a lot of people around me struggling with addiction, and there wasn’t a lot to keep people busy,” she said.

“I think that’s where the seed got planted, and it just grew over time. It’s a culmination of all the things that I love.”

Jensen pulled together a focus group of 9-16-year-olds back in 2015 to work out what this space would be like, and came up with the concept of Unity Studios, a place which would bring the community together for programs in skill building, music, art and drama.

By 2016, it had opened in the Blaxland Uniting Church and the Blaxland Community Centre, and was eventually running across up to five venues at once.

“We had lots of crates and cars and we were

running around everywhere,” Jensen said.

“It was nuts, but it was good.”

However, the business was hit hard when the pandemic began, as it made it impossible to run group-based workshops in their current forms.

“We had to pull everything online, and everything went from groups to one-on-one except for one drama and one art group,” Jensen said.

“It was a real honour and privilege to do that, because no one could go to anyone’s house, but we were able to beam into people’s homes

and be there for them when they were socially isolated.”

Thankfully, this only strengthened their mindset around socialisation and community, meaning they came back stronger than ever, and this has only been proven by their recent move to Woodriff Street.

According to Jensen, the new larger and more accessible location than their previous High Street space is truly a game-changer.

“Having carpet in the space is really good. It’s something that we’ve never had before,” she said.

“Having no stairs is also great, because of the accessibility. While we were in the last space, we had someone who wanted to work with us but we were upstairs, so we ended up going back to Blaxland Uniting Church. I can’t wait until they can wheel on in here!”

Now that they’re in a more permanent and central location, Jensen is hoping to see people of all ages and abilities come by.

“We want to provide a place for people to come and have a good time and be uniquely themselves, whilst feeling as though they’re part of a community,” she said.

Deli ve r ing the next generation o f of health care to the Nepean region

Matilda Nepean provides specialist inpatient care and day therapy programs that foster health and wellbeing

Matilda Nepean provides specialist health care services in rehabilitation, medical, ger iatr ics, palliative care and mental health within

Simone, Emma and Liam at Unity Studios. Photo: Melinda Jane. Levi and Lisa doing art at Unity Studios. Photo:Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

The Emu Plains community came out in force for the annual Cenotaph Service Service’s return a success

ANZAC Day 2024 has proved a red letter day for the Emu Plains and surrounding suburbs community, the reincarnation of its annual Cenotaph Service in Melrose Park.

For the past five years no community get together has been held there, rather individuals have conducted their own ‘Last Post’ ceremonies.

Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh urged the resumption at the Cenotaph commemoration and called for assistance from community groups, organisations and locals to make it happen.

Their response was overwhelming.

Set down for 11am on April 25, the organisers catered for an expected crowd of about 400, but found it exceeded expectations with an estimated up to 2,000 people turning out for the service.

“The Emu Plains Community ANZAC Service stopped after several decades as an institution in the Emu Plains community, with local organisers met by overwhelming administrative difficulties such as public liability insurance and event costs,” McIntosh said.

“With a small group of dedicated local community leaders, we were determined to bring the service back to Emu Plains.”

And the local community responded in droves.

“Just about everyone in our street strolled up to the park in a stream,” local resident Peta Ellem said.

“It was so good to walk and talk with our neighbours.”

Glenmore Park residents Terry and Kerrie Brennan also made their way to Melrose.

“This once was the special ANZAC service for the people of the district,’’ Terry said.

“The number of people here is a reflection of the way the people of this area revere ANZAC and Australia’s traditions.’’

The service began with a march across the park by about a hundred locals, as well as the police, military and naval official guests, accompanied by a drummer from Penrith RSL Pipes and Drums, to be greeted by Master of Ceremonies, Navy veteran, Tim Badger. 11-year-old Gabe Perris stepped up to the microphone to render ‘The Last Post’ and

Rouse on his trumpet, followed by the New Zealand Anthem sung by Elena Tomaras, and ‘Advance Australia Fair’ by Jessica Ashton.

Sixth generation Penrith resident and legend of tennis in the Nepean district, 84-year-old Dennis Sales, OAM, described the commemoration as a “wonderful event”.

‘’It is great to see this ceremony back in Melrose Park,’’ he said.

“Grand also to see the work of the community groups that made it all possible.”

PARKROYAL Parramatta invites you to indulge in a sumptuous seafood bu et lunch this Mother ’s Day A full seafood bu et with cold and hot selections and a dessert station featuring a chocolate fountain, it promises to be a feast for the senses. Plus, with discounted parking, a glass of sparkling wine, and a special surprise for Mum to take home, what’s not to love?

Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh attended the Emu Plains service on ANZAC Day.

TERRY GALLAWAY

Emotional scenes at local service

TROY DODDS

Large crowds attended ANZAC Day services in Penrith and St Marys last Thursday.

There were emotional scenes at Memory Park as the City of Penrith RSL Sub-branch held its traditional Dawn Service.

The cold dawn air, often the first sign of the winter ahead, was cracked by a spine-tingling version of ‘The Last Post’ before silence fell over those gathered.

The New Zealand and Australian National Anthems were performed ahead of the dismounting of the Catafalque Party.

Reverend Rod Bailey delivered the opening prayer, while two hymns – ‘Abide With Me’ and ‘Amazing Grace’ – were sung.

A wreath laying ceremony took place with invited guests and members of the public laying tributes to those who have fought in all wars, many paying the ultimate sacrifice.

Despite the early hour, crowds were just as strong as in previous years as Penrith locals took part in a strong tradition on the most important day of the year.

For many, it’s also the toughest, as they reflect on their personal connections to war. Many in attendance this morning wore the medals of parents, grandparents, great grandparents and other relatives who served.

A dawn service also took place in St Marys, with a large crowd in attendance.

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You are now able to purchase our new range of roof paint and flexible pointing called ‘Roof Top Restore’.

FROM MONDAY 29 APRIL UNTIL FRIDAY 3 MAY, WE WILL BE HAVING A MASSIVE SALE ON OUR ROOFLEX RANGE OF PAINTS. Explore our latest product range at www.rooftoprestore.com.au or connect with us on our social media platforms.

Penrith’s dawn service was well attended. Photos: Melinda Jane.

Cr Ross Fowler pays his respects.

MP Karen McKeown was in attendance. Saluting those who fought.

The dawn service was held at Memory Park.

Δ Little Amigos announced: Little Amigos is opening in Westfield Penrith later this year. The new playland zones will be suited to all kids, plus there’s a new cafe for the grownups. It’ll be located in The Food Terrace, with an opening date to be confirmed soon.

Δ Beloved pizza joint closes: One of the region’s most loved pizza restaurants has made the tough call to shut up shop. Pizza Rocco at St Clair has operated for 15 years at St Clair Shopping Centre, but they’ve firing up their last garlic bread, closing for good last Sunday. “Your smiles, conversations,

and support have been the heartbeat of our establishment, and for that, we are eternally grateful,” the restaurant said in a message to customers.

Δ Attention player one: Arnott’s Shapes has announced the launch of Xbox Controller Barbecue Shapes, available exclusively in Coles supermarkets nationwide later this week, until sold out. Following the overwhelming response from Xbox and Shapes fans when the product was teased in 2023 with a very limited batch, the iconic Xbox controller shape is now officially available. Whether

NOTICE OF COMMUNIT Y INFORMATION FORUMS EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE FACILITIES NORTHERN NSW REDEVELOPMENT

The Department of Defence will conduct two community information forums to outline the proposed construction works associated with the Explosive Ordnance Facilities Northern NSW Redevelopment Project. Subject to Parliamentary Approval, the works will be delivered from late 2024 through to 2029 at Defence Establishment Orchard Hills.

The proposed works include the demolition of old past-useable life buildings, refurbishment of support facilities and the construction of new classrooms, working accommodation, cadet facilities, base entry and security precinct, maintenance facilities and associated engineering services. If approved, the proposed works will be mainly situated on Defence managed land, with infrastructure services to be connected to pre-existing service points outside of Defence managed land.

The works are proposed to commence late 2024.

Information about the proposed works will be available at the forums with representatives from the Department of Defence available to answer any questions.

Community Information Forum Details

DATE:

09 May 2024

09 May 2024

TIME: 10:00 - 12:00

16:00 - 1900

this lip-smacking snack is your chosen player two, or one to enjoy with mates, it’s the musthave addition to any gaming set-up.

Δ Leura Harvest Festival: Returning to Leura Mall this weekend is the ever popular Leura Harvest Festival. The May 4 event is dedicated to showcasing the outstanding produce, fine fare and innovative sustainability initiatives taking place across the Blue Mountains. Aimed at all ages the Leura Harvest Festival features an inspired mix of market stalls set along the cherry trees of Leura Mall in their autumn colours. It’ll be held in Leura Mall from 9am to 4.30pm on Saturday.

Δ It’s Mocha O’Clock: Nescafé and Arnott’s Tim Tam have teamed up to launch Nescafé

Mayor’s News

White Choc Mocha inspired by Tim Tam – a harmonious blend of sweet white chocolate and creamy coffee flavours. The new Nescafé Mixes flavour combines the richness of Australia’s beloved white chocolate Tim Tam with the smoothness of Nescafé coffee for an instant, sweet taste sensation set to excite coffee connoisseurs and biscuit enthusiasts alike. It’s available in supermarkets now.

Δ New podcast: The latest episode of the Weekender ’s ‘On The Record’ podcast has landed, with special guest George Rabie. George ran Little & Rabie in Penrith for some 40 years, and shares some wonderful insights into his business journey. Search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts, or visit www.westernweekender.com.au/ podcast.

VENUE:

HomeCo Glenmore Park

HomeCo Glenmore Park

If you would like further information on the forums, please contact the Project Team via email at NNSWEO@jacobs.com or via phone on 0456 294 362. WW53697

The weekly views of

Penrith’s Mayor

Feedback wanted

As a Council, we encourage and seek the community’s input on a range of projects and activities that we are planning, so we can shape our city together. We regard the community’s thoughts and ideas as critical inputs that help us get the balance right.

From Monday, May 6 to Sunday, June, 2 we are asking for feedback on Council’s Draft Operational Plan and Draft Fees and Charges 2024-25.

These draft plans outline the actions and projects that Council will deliver over the next 12 months. They have been developed to reflect the priorities and direction established through engagement with Councillors, and the community. They reflect Council’s commitment to effective service delivery and financial responsibility as we work to manage growth, while supporting the transformation of our region in a balanced, sustainable and considered way.

In 2024-25, Council will be working towards the delivery of an extensive list of transformative projects including the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct, the Indoor Multi-Sports Arena at Claremont Meadows, St Marys Central Park, Council’s Nursery Upgrade and Cumberland Plain Improvement, Cook Park Sports Precinct Upgrade, Dunheved Road and Coreen

and

and

and the creation of 21

These projects, along with the soon-tobe-complete Regatta Park revitalisation, are part of a major transformation for Penrith which will see the region grow with more local jobs, vibrant places, better transport, improved access and safety, as well as enhancements to help protect our environment.

The Draft Operational Plan and Draft Fees and Charges 2024-25 detail how we use our budget of $337.9 million for the coming financial year to keep our services running smoothly, deliver on infrastructure, recreation and services for our community, and stimulating our local economy with City-shaping projects such as the ones listed above.

To review the draft plans, visit one of our Council Offices or Library branches to view the plans in person, yoursaypenrith. com.au/draft-operational-plan-2024-2025 to view the plans online, or contact corporate.planning@penrith.city for more information. Submissions close on Sunday, June 2, 2024.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor

of Penrith

Avenue upgrades, Bennett Park, Parker Street Reserve

Andromeda Oval Storage

Carpark upgrades,

new play spaces across 12 suburbs in the Penrith LGA.

This photo shows Southlands Shopping Centre in the late 1980s; and it's how many people who grew up in South Penrith in the 1980s and 1990s would remember it.

The shopping centre, located on the corner of Evan and Maxwell Streets in South Penrith, opened in 1978.

In 2008 the centre was partially demolished to make way for a new shopping centre.

The new Southlands opened in December 2009 and remains a popular centre today.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

HERE TO HELP YOU

Karen’s Comment

The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

Celebrating community: Tea time and honours at The Royce Retirement Village

I had the pleasure of recently visiting The Royce Retirement Village on a clear autumn afternoon to share a delightful afternoon of tea and conversation with the residents, each with their own tales of wisdom and laughter.

It was a great opportunity to honour Nicole Celeban with a certificate of nomination for the Local Senior Citizen of the Year 2024. Nicole was nominated by Irene McAdam for her tireless efforts working alongside Nepean Therapy Dogs.

Her dedication and contributions to the community, coupled with the joy and comfort provided by Nepean Therapy Dogs, truly exemplify the spirit of selflessness and compassion that enriches the lives of our community members.

It was great to hear from The Royce residents and share in their comradery. Their wealth of experiences, stories, and

backgrounds offer invaluable insights into how they chose to make Penrith their home. However, many of those I spoke to are also long-term Penrith residents. Each tale they shared serves as a window into the history of Penrith. I am immensely proud to have the opportunity to give back and honour our residents. Their contributions have laid the foundation for the diverse community we live in today, and it’s both humbling and rewarding to show gratitude and support in return.

The afternoon conversations reminded me of the positive impact individuals like Nicole and initiatives like Nepean Therapy Dogs have on our Penrith community.

It was a gathering filled with warmth, laughter, and the spirit of appreciation, and it always warms my heart to connect so informally with all members of our community.

Thank you for the invite!

KAREN MCKEOWN OAM Member for Penrith

Need gift ideas for Mum? Visit St Marys

Shop local this Mother’s Day. Queen Street, St Marys has an abundance of beautiful Mother’s Day gift ideas.

Keeping it local means, you are supporting businesses that have chosen St Marys as their destination. They bring their expertise and display it in the heart of our town.

Recent surveys suggest that over the last three years flowers remain the number-one gift of choice.

Untamed Flowers at 174 Queen Street has a long-standing local reputation.

Colleen has been making people smile with her beautiful floral arrangements for over 44 years.

All mums have their favourite hairdresser.

Chances are they have been going to the same one for years and it could be in Queen Street.

Many of our hairdressers completed their apprenticeships in St Marys. Some have been here creating beautiful styles for 40+ years.

All salons offer great services, products, and gift vouchers. There

equipped to make Mum feel fabulous.

Skin Essentials Beauty Centre has 21 years’ experience and has been in St Marys for eight years.

They are located in the Star Arcade and offer a luxurious experience.

Established in 1997 on Queen Street is 4 Seasons Beauty Lounge. They offer it all. Pop in and check out their extensive list of beauty treatments.

Both salons have very loyal clientele. Maybe your Mum is one of them!

Beauty comes in all forms. Has your mum been dreaming about her first tattoo.

Drop in to Death or Glory and grab her a gift voucher.

Splash out and treat mum to a lovely meal.

The annual Mother’s Day Buffet at Cassandra’s on the Park is sure to make her smile. Choose from a breakfast or lunch sitting. There will be live music and every mum receives a gift. Check with the café for availability.

Get organised today. Come on down to Queen Street, St Marys and order those flowers, make that booking, buy that gift voucher and remember to buy a card from St Marys Newsagency.

Buying local strengthens your community

This Mother’s Day Penrith CBD Corporation are encouraging the community to shop, dine and stay locally.

Penrith was built on small businesses and to this day so many small businesses continue to service the community and it is up to now up to us to return the support.

There are so many options in Penrith this Mother’s Day whether you are going out for breakfast, lunch or dinner, so many local places will be operating on Mother’s Day including High St Depot, 4oz and Co, Screaming Beans, Natural Choice Café, Mr Watkin’s, Happy Inn, Griddle, and the recently reopened The Savoury Dining and Chechos. Don’t forget all the spots along Riley Street or over at the East Side Quarter!

Theo’s Rooftop Bar in the Astina Suites will be holding a high tea, visit theosrooftopbar.com.au to buy tickets and secure your spot!

If it’s a specialised cake you are looking for, make sure to reach out to Mrs C’s Cupcakes or The Cake Place.

For activities to do on the day Narrow Escape Rooms, Pinot & Picasso and art classes at Stella’s Gallery are available. For special gift ideas for mum look no further than Penrith’s Inner Forest, Your Floral Indulgence, Donna’s Flow-

Discover a world of wonder at Young Academics Penrith MOTHER’S DAY

Nestled in the vibrant heart of greater western Sydney, Young Academics Penrith, provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged six weeks to six-years-old.

At Young Academics, the team prioritise every child’s individuality, fostering a sense of belonging and confidence as they explore and learn.

The state-of-the-art facilities are designed to inspire

curiosity and creativity, featuring spacious indoor and outdoor areas for play and discovery.

The Evolution Program for ages zero to three-years-old celebrates every milestone and encourages early learning through engaging activities and sensory exploration. From tummy time to first steps, every moment is a milestone.

The Transition to School Program for children aged three to five is designed to

equip kids with the essential skills and confidence they need for a smooth transition to formal education.

From learning about different food groups to understanding where food comes from, the Nutrition Program fosters a positive relationship with food from an early age.

Give your child the best start in life. Enrol Now.

To find out more information, visit www.youngacademics.com.au.

Order those flowers, make that booking, buy that gift voucher and a card!

Hairdressers: Untamed Flowers | 9623 0585

Annastasia’s Hair Design | 9623 1964

Define Hair Design and Beauty | 8605 4722

Dina’s Hair and Beauty | 8840 8458

Enchanted Hair and Beauty | 9623 1012

Hair Options by Mary | 9673 4669 Skye’s The Limit For Hair | 9673 0090

Florist: Tattoo Studio: Café: Beauty:

4 Seasons Beauty Lounge | 9833 7874 Skin Essentials Beauty Centre | 9833 1689

Death or Glory | 9673 5199 Cassandra’s on the Park | 0435 378 267

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

Need a last minute gift idea for Mum?

May has officially arrived, meaning Mother’s Day is just around the corner.

Fortunately, if you’ve left buying a gift to the last minute, there are plenty of local businesses who are ready to help you celebrate the special woman in your life in the perfect way.

Spoil her with choice

Why get mum one gift when you can get a hamper with all the things she loves most?

Penrith-based small business The Gifting Emporium creates carefully curated hampers for all occasions –Mother’s Day being one of them.

In their hampers, you can get everything from bath salts and eye masks, to vouchers for local restaurants, photography sessions and more, ensuring it’s perfectly catered to her preferences.

Just make sure you get in quick to guarantee shipping before the day!

You can’t go wrong with yummy chocolate

If mum has a bit of a sweet tooth, chocolate is always the answer.

Head to Emu Heights to gift her a new experience with Zokoko’s bean to bar chocolate.

Pick up a box of their handcrafted creations to enjoy on the day, or take

mum along to indulge in one of their baked treats, alongside their own roasted Morgans Coffee.

Treat her to a memorable movie experience

Sometimes all a mum wants to do is spend time with her children, and there’s no better place to do this than in a trip to Hoyts Penrith.

If she’s a fan of action (or Ryan Gosling), take her to see ‘The Fall Guy’, which follows the story of a seasoned stunt performer, fresh from a near-career-ending incident, who embarks on a mission to locate

a vanished movie star.

Or, if she’s into musicals, choose ‘Les Miserables (Re-mastered)’, for a boldly remixed and remastered version of the award-winning sensation.

Take her out on the town

If you’re someone who thinks everything’s just too busy on Mother’s Day, there’s no harm in locking in a future date for a nice meal out.

Marcel Bar & Bistro, situated within the Pullman Sydney Penrith Hotel, is hosting a luxurious Mother’s Day Lunch experience, includ-

Here in Penrith, there is truly so much to see and do right on your doorstep.

Gift mum an experience this year, whether it’s a session at iFLY, or a class at The Creative

ing a drink on arrival, charcuterie, a choice of main, dessert station, tea and coffee for $90 per person. But, the food is just as good any other day – head online to make a booking to visit, or purchase a gift card.

Experience Penrith

Fringe.

FERGUSO N

Patricia Munro (Pat)

Passed away peacefully 27th April 2024 long-term resident of Penrith, and previously Stanmore and Gulargambone. Daughter of Nita and Robert (Bob) Ferguson. Beloved sister of Frank (dec), John (dec) and Treasured aunt and great-aunt to many Age 92 years

Family and friends are invited to celebrate s life at Royal Remembrance Chapel, 107 Queen Street, St Marys, on Thursday 9th May commencing 10:30am followed by burial at Penrith General Cemetery (Kingswood).

The content you should consider to give your social media a boost BUSINESS

TWITH NATHAN TODD • WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE • 4721 5011

he best content to post on social media can vary depending on your goals, target audience, and the platform you’re using. However, here are some general ideas that tend to perform well:

High-quality visuals: Images and videos (Reels and TikTok) grab attention and tend to generate more engagement. Use visually appealing content that is relevant to your brand or message.

Educational or informative posts: Share valuable information, tips, or tutorials related to your niche. This type of content is used to show the expertise you have and helps your audience learn something new. Give users a reason as to WHY they would keep following your content.

Behind-the-scenes: Offer a sneak peek into your work process, product development, or events. Authentic and relatable behind-the-

scenes content helps your audience learn more about your business and gives a sense of connection to them.

User-generated content: Encourage your audience to share their experiences with your product or service and repost their content. User-generated content (or UGC) not only strengthens your relationship with customers but also acts as social proof, encouraging others to engage with your brand.

Polls and questions: Encourage interaction by asking questions, conducting polls, or seeking opinions from your audience. It encourages engagement and helps you understand their preferences. They follow your brand and have an interest in what you do, why not get their opinions on what they want to see?

Social media trends: Stay up to date with current trends on the platforms where you have a presence.

For example, using a trending song/sound could be the reason why your content gets more views.

Humorous or entertaining content: Everyone enjoys a good laugh. Share funny memes, jokes, or light-hearted content that aligns with your brands’ values. Use social media to bring your personality to life, and most importantly, be yourself!

Personal stories or experiences: Share personal stories that relate to your brand or offer insights into your journey. This creates an emotional connection with your audience and helps them relate to your brand on a deeper level.

Remember, it’s important to tailor your content to your audience and platform. Experiment with different types of content, analyse the engagement and feedback you receive through your insights, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Neptune Swim School in Eastern Creek is the most advanced custom-built swim school in the area. Send your kids here to learn to swim within their stateof-the-art facilities. The water is always toasty 32 degrees and the air stays at 34 degrees, so no cold kids after a lesson!

The filtration system filters particles down to 1 to 2 microns which is a much higher standard than sand filters at most pools which filter particles to 60 to 80 microns.

The entire pool goes through the filter in 75-minute intervals and is subject to chemistry tests 24/7, other pools only go through the filter a few times a day!

The facility pumps air out of the room 10 times per hour and uses the heat from the air to heat the pool. The air is never recycled back into the room making it much

safer for kids to fight off bugs.

All electricity used to run the facility is 100 per cent carbon active certified.

Neptune Swim School is fully accessible and provides a safe space for all to learn to be comfortable in the water. Classes are offered for a range of age groups from babies (4 months +) to adults.

Lessons focus on teaching the ability to self-rescue before moving on to learning the different strokes.

The facility was built during COVID and is now the standard for all custom-built swim schools. It is an all-inclusive swim school which includes a parent's room and a viewing deck to watch the classes. It is located close to shops in its prime position of the Eastern Creek Quarter. For all enquiries, call the team on 8014 7785 or visit neptuneswimschool.com. au.

MOSES LEOTA POSTER INSIDE

Photo:

We’ve seen plenty of coach sackings over the years but very few within 48 hours of a game. Yet that is the circumstances Souths found themselves in this week after axing Jason Demetriou on Tuesday.

Contrary to popular belief, that does not make this a danger game. The whole ‘new coach equals a win’ theory is one of the great rugby league myths.

It is incredible to think how quickly the mighty have fallen. It was in this corresponding fixture last year that the Rabbitohs stormed home late to beat Penrith and emerge as Premiership favourites. We all know what happened next – a spectacular fall from Finals contention, and now a horror start to the 2024 season and a coach gone.

The Panthers meantime are sitting pretty in third spot on the ladder after a gritty 26-20 win

over North Queensland last Saturday night.

The final scoreline probably better suited the tightness of the game, with the half-time lead of 18-4 flattering Penrith; the margin bloated by an intercept try against the run of play just before the break.

For Penrith to win the match with just 45 per cent of possession, and a completion rate of 78 per cent, against a desperate home team was something to admire. Indeed, almost every statistic except the one that matters tells you the Cowboys should have won that game. But the Panthers’ Finals-like defence shone through, and it should put to bed any fears that the Panthers aren’t legitimate title hopes again this year.

On paper, it’s hard to go past Penrith in this Round 9 fixture. It’s equally hard to imagine the Rabbitohs coming back from that thumping to the Storm down at AAMI Park on ANZAC Day.

the final word

But one thing that would give Souths hope is that they still scored 20 points and four tries in what is one of the NRL’s toughest road trips. There was a period in the second half that would have had Demetriou equally happy and frustrated, pondering why such a stand couldn’t have happened earlier.

There’s no doubt Penrith’s defence, which has typically conceded two tries a game for much of the premiership run, has been a little easier to penetrate this year, and if the Rabbitohs can get a roll on, they’d fancy themselves a chance of piling on some points.

It should also be noted that the Panthers have had a tough turnaround heading into this Thursday night fixture, travelling from Townsville late on Sunday night back into Sydney and then straight into preparations for their next match. There could well be some weary legs as the 80 minutes rolls on.

The question for Souths is simple: What are you playing for now? Surely, they haven’t given up on the season – and they’re technically only two wins out of the top eight despite sitting in last spot.

It feels like a long way up from where the Rabbitohs sit but every journey must start somewhere, and I don’t think Souths are simply going to surrender this one as they desperately try to save their season.

That said, if Penrith produce the type of grit and determination they did against North Queensland, they’ll be hard to stop.

A few less errors though, especially coming out of trouble, will be needed to ensure another victory.

I’m tipping this one will be a little tighter than many expect, but Penrith should be too classy in the end.

Tip: Panthers by 10.

ADAM GEE

BUNKER: ASHLEY KLEIN

panther rumblings

TURUVA RESTED AFTER BIG WEEK

! Cleary’s big Turuva call: There’s no question that Ivan Cleary made the right call to leave Sunia Turuva out of the clash with North Queensland last week after an enormous couple of weeks for the youngster in regards to sorting out his future. The Panthers found it a distraction, particularly as the Tigers talk started to emerge during their preparation for the Townsville trip. The final straw may well have came when the Tigers announced Turuva’s three-year deal last Friday, just 24 hours before Penrith’s game against the Cowboys. It wasn’t the most respectful of timing.

! Headache for Venues NSW: It’s a problem they’re happy to have but Venues NSW will certainly have their work cut out for them next year when it comes to hosting NRL matches. The organisation runs CommBank Stadium, Accor Stadium and Allianz Stadium. Next year, on top of the existing teams using their venues, the Panthers will play matches out of CommBank, while the Tigers are now in negotiations to play more home games at either CommBank or Accor.

! All in the family: Brian To’o’s nearest and dearest made the tip to Townsville last week to see the popular winger play his 100th game. And boy did he put on a show – scoring the first try and producing one of his best games in a Penrith jersey.

! Eddy’s Origin woes: I’m told Michael Maguire is a huge Dylan Edwards fan but is still likely to leave him out of the Blues squad for the opening State of Origin game when it’s announced later this month. James Tedesco appears to have done enough to keep the fullback jersey, and there’s apparently little appetite to play Edwards on the wing or off the bench.

Alamoti chasing deal: Paul Alamoti signed a one-year deal with Penrith last September and his games for the club so far have done him no harm when it comes finding his next contract. He’s only 20 and looks like he’s got a strong future ahead of him. While the Panthers are pretty confident in the wingers and centres they have coming through, a new deal for Alamoti certainly wouldn’t surprise anyone.

! Travel itinerary burns: The Panthers weren’t happy with the NRL over the scheduling of their Round 8 and 9 fixtures. The trip to Townsville is a difficult one as direct flights are limited, meaning the team couldn’t fly back to Sydney until Sunday night. In its wisdom, the NRL scheduled Penrith for a Thursday night fixture in Round 9, making it an extremely short turnaround.

! Spotted: Penrith winger Taylan May

having a jab at ‘NRL 360’ host Paul Kent on Instagram. Kent has been stood down by Fox Sports and The Daily Telegraph for a second consecutive year, this time over a street fight in Rozelle last weekend.

! Got some goss? I don’t keep secrets, but I do protect my sources. If you’ve got some goss from Pantherland or you’ve spotted a player out and about, email maskedpanther@ westernweekender.com.au.

Sunia Turuva.

feature

LINDSAY PRAISES DEPARTING MENTOR

Premiership-winning Penrith prop Lindsay Smith has relished his opportunities to start matches this year, but he isn’t looking too far ahead when it comes to filling that position on a permanent basis.

Following James Fisher-Harris’ shock announcement that he’d be moving on from the five-time Premiers at the conclusion of the season, a spot in Penrith’s front row will soon be up for grabs.

24-year-old Smith has started in more than half of Penrith’s games in 2024, filling in for Fisher-Harris and his bash brother Moses Leota on four occasions already.

Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, the St Marys junior said it’s been an “honour” to run out on the field for the opening kickoff.

“It’s always an honour to start a game especially with the side that

we have,” Smith said.

“I’m excited whenever I get the chance to start and I’m happy to do my role whenever I’m on the bench as well.

“Like I said, it’s super exciting to start a few games this year already, but I can’t wait to do my role whatever it may be.”

It’s still early to tell how the Panthers will fill the huge gaping hole left by Fisher-Harris next year, but all signs point to Smith getting the gig if his form so far this season is anything to go by.

Smith is enjoying his best season to date as a first grader and right now he’d be the odds-on favourite to replace the departing Kiwi captain.

“I haven’t thought too far ahead, to be honest,” Smith said.

“My focus is just on this year and how we can get to where we want to. I haven’t thought about next year at all, and that’s something I probably won’t think about until the end of the season.

“Each week you try and go out and do your best for the team and

I know that good performances always come with rewards, but I’m not focused on any of that at the moment.”

After watching Fisher-Harris on television growing up and then playing alongside him in a Grand Final, it will be an emotional time for Smith when his mentor moves back home.

Smith couldn’t speak highly of the New Zealand captain when asked about his impact on him personally.

“He’s probably one of the best front rowers to play the game. He’s been unreal to learn under and in the public eye he may not speak too much, but personally he’s been unreal teaching me the ins and outs of the game and I’m super stoked to learn under him,” Smith said.

“When you’re out on the field he leads by his actions – he’s one of the best front rowers to ever play the game. Of course he’ll be sadly missed, but I can’t wait to see what he does next year.”

Lindsay Smith before training on Tuesday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

THE WORRYING STATS FOR PENRITH

If you’re wondering why Penrith have done a lot of defending this season and they’re leaking a few more tries than usual, it all comes down to their discipline.

Handling errors, penalties, set restarts and ineffective tackles are the reason the Panthers don’t have the number one defence in the competition unlike in previous seasons.

Yes, it could be blamed on new players added into the mix, but stats don’t lie, and the usually rock-solid Panthers are putting themselves under pressure week in, week out with poor discipline.

After eight rounds, the Panthers on average are first in the competition for ineffective tackles; first for penalties conceded; fifth for handling errors; and seventh for errors.

In comparison in 2023 overall, the Panthers were 12th in the competition for ineffective tackles; 15th for penalties conceded; 17th for handling errors; and 17th for errors.

Last weekend in humid Townsville, the Panthers racked up 13 errors, six penalties, four ruck infringements, and two inside 10 metres set restarts.

They were lucky to get away with the narrow win.

“It was humid up there, you felt the sweat and the ball was slippery than usual,” forward Matt Eisenhuth told Extra Time on Tuesday.

“We made a lot of errors… I know I made one myself that I wouldn’t usually make – it just

happens in footy sometimes.

“As a team we made more errors than we would’ve liked to, and it made us have to tackle a lot more as well, which made it a lot harder.”

Eisenhuth, who has racked up five games already this season, says the team is aware of their poor discipline which, in turn, is making it a lot harder to win games of late.

“Everyone does know the system and does know their role. We are just making ourselves do too much of it through errors and all that – it takes its toll,” he said.

“We trust our system and we work well as a unit, but we are making ourselves do too much at the moment. I think that’s been a consistent thing – penalties, set restarts– we want to limit them, so we don’t have to do as much work.”

Meanwhile the 31-year-old, who is off-contract at season’s end, has opened up about his future in the game. After recently notching up his 50th match in Panthers colours, Eisenhuth isn’t sure what’s ahead for him as he shoots for what is likely his final NRL contract.

“I’d love to stay at Penrith but, at the end of the day, I know there’s lots of young kids coming up here, so if the club want me to hang around and stay, I’m open to that,” Eisenhuth said.

“I’m getting to… not the end of my career but I’m a lot older… so security for my family will probably play a big part in my decision.

“In saying that, I’d love to be here if the club want me, but I know there’s probably a few bigger pieces to the puzzle they want to get ready and solved first and when the time comes for me to start that conversation then we’ll start it.”

Panthers prop Matt Eisenhuth says the club can turn its discipline around.

TAYLOR

MOSES

MOSES LEOTA

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Aformer Penrith Panthers player who, for many years, never had management was approached by a high-profile player manager before his last contract was set to expire.

“Let me handle your negotiations and I promise I’ll set you and your family up for life,” the manager said.

He’s now playing for another NRL side on huge money after signing the biggest contract of his short career.

His monetary future secure... forever.

Any chance Penrith had of re-signing him… gone!

Not because Panthers management don’t know how to deal with managers or that the player was greedy, but it’s hard to think straight when you’ve got someone in your ear constantly talking about how much you’re really worth and how, with that extra money, you’ll be able to look after not only yourself but your family as well.

WHY PENRITH LET TURUVA WALK lang on league analysis

Bit hard to walk away from that kind of security, especially if it can help your family who have spent their whole life helping you.

Lang

More often than not, when a player signs a huge contract, they may go out and buy themselves a little present, but most of the time the money goes towards either securing their own family’s or their parents’ future in some way.

The career of an average football player is not a long one.

Players know this and so do their managers.

It’s easy to blame the club when a player doesn’t re-sign with them but chooses to go to another club for more cash.

Let’s look at Sunia Turuva’s decision last week to join the Tigers for more money than Penrith could offer as an example.

My first reaction was... “C’mon

Panthers, give him an extra $50,000 a season... we’ve just lost Fish… he’s worth it!”

When Penrith wouldn’t increase their offer I was perplexed! Even a bit angry.

Then I decided to look at the situation from the club’s perspective and it made perfect sense.

Panthers Chief Executive Officer

Matt Cameron also has a family to look after. It’s made up of hundreds of players under his

watch from 14-year-old juniors to NRL megastar Nathan Cleary. Cameron’s family also extends to all the other staff who work in the Penrith system. It includes Panthers supporters and sponsors, which all demand a certain level of success every year.

If players’ salaries aren’t juggled properly then the whole house of cards will fall and the long-term success of the club will be compromised.

Cameron and his team have to be extremely disciplined with the salary cap. They only have a certain amount of money to spend for each position and that’s it. No ifs ands or Player managers know this and exploit it.

After all they don’t operate under a salary cap and therein lies their real power.

For them the more they can make for their client – the better.

To them, the sky’s the limit.

To Matt Cameron his limit is $11.4 million, the total amount he has to spend on his Top 30 squad. That’s the salary cap for 2025. And he has a lot of mouths to feed under that figure.

I don’t know how he does it, but he does it well.

rating for the best Panthers players from each Penrith game. The player with the most votes at the end of

Panthers Chief Executive Officer Matt Cameron. Photo: Melinda Jane. with Peter

panther memories

Penrith played Finals football for the first time in 1985.

The Panthers got their 1985 campaign off to a great start with a 26-14 win over Manly. However consecutive losses to Balmain, St George and Illawarra set Penrith back on their heels.

Fortunately a season defining 38-8 win over Canberra in Round 5 put the Panthers back on track and they would go on to win their next four matches.

With one preliminary round remaining, Penrith needed to beat Easts away from home to secure a playoff for fifth place.

The Panthers cooked the Chooks 38-6, which would set up a date against the Sea Eagles for a place in the Finals.

The playoff match against Manly at the SCG was a tough battle, with scores level at 6-all at full-time. Following 20 gruelling minutes of extra time, Penrith came out on top 10-7.

Finally, Penrith had made the Finals.

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If you have a gig or event you would like to promote please contact Megan on 0433 241 737

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drag bingo in chopstix or fork 7:30pm- $5

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raise your glassaustralian pink show

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Explore the Blue Mountains this winter

The Blue Mountains has been a favourite visitor hotspot for more than 100 years.

And these days, there’s so much to enjoy.

From retro hotel makeovers, new foodie flavours and the Blue Mountains Craft Beverage Trail to upgraded views accessible to all, fresh activities and an entire hidden valley to explore.

Here’s some top tips when visiting the Blue Mountains...

Megalong Valley

When COVID put the kybosh on renowned chef Colin Barker’s The Boathouse at Blackwattle Bay, he re-established on Lot101. The 600ha property tucked under the cliffs of the Megalong Valley includes the fine dining Megalong Restaurant, historic Megalong Valley Tearooms and Werriberri Cottages. Vegetables and fruit, sheep, cattle, ducks and chicken are grown and served onsite.

Blackheath

Chalets of Blackheath with four luxury eco chalets has risen from the ashes of the wellknown Jemby Rinjah Eco Lodge that was destroyed in the 2019 bushfires, while the old Redleaf Resort was unveiled as Kyah Boutique Hotel at Blackheath in December 2021 as a Palm Springs-inspired modern venue with a twist of old Hollywood glamour.

Alexandra Hotel in Leura Equeva Group has renovated the accom-

Echo Point Discovery Motel to offer a more comfortable stay with eco-friendly features in contemporary cosiness in designs inspired by the nearby Echo Point.

People often come for the bushwalks, but there’s another type of track weaving its way through the Mountains – a trail where exploration means sampling some of the best beverages in the Blue.

There’s cider from a century-old orchard, beers brewed down canyons and spirits

Book your farmstay at Kenzell Farm! Where the animals are happier, the adventures are awesome, and memories are made! Come for the day or make it an overnight family adventure. Get ready to embark on a journey of farmtastic fun and quirky delights. We're not your ordinar y farm – we're a lively hub of miniature cattle, miniature goats, miniature donkeys, and a whole menagerie of adorable creatures!

LOCATION 5194 Jenolan Caves Road, Oberon 2787

HOURS Day Farm Open all year School hols & weekends

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infused with local botanicals for a true taste of the region.

Along the way is the world’s best (it’s official) vodka at Karu Distillery, the only brew pub in the Blue (Mountain Culture Beer Co) with the country’s top craft beer, and newbies Frankly This Wine Was Made by Bob (Blackheath) and Blue Mountains Gin Company (Katoomba). And don’t forget to check out Hillbilly Cider at Bilpin, a must-see!

Katoomba

Gazelles Restaurant & Café Royale at the Palais Royale has a new chef with fresh offerings at one of the original grand hotels of the region, while the renowned quirk venue Avalon Restaurant has a new sister in The Bowery.

New kid on the block Tempus Restaurant at Katoomba serves modern Australian cuisine, well-known chef Misha Laurant travels the world in eight street food dishes at his 8Things venue (and mobile food truck) and his latest Leura Dumplings turns out dumplings, noodles and Hainanese chicken rice.

Blacktop Adventure Tours.

Blue Mountains Biking Adventures takes the thigh burn out of bike riding to spectacular locations in the Blue Mountains.

End the day with Blue Mountains Stargazing under the twinkling lights of heaven, stargazing with an astrophysicist, who will guide you through the night sky with cultural storytelling.

modation rooms at

Blue Mountains Craft Beverage Trail

Hillbilly Cider at Bilpin.

The jewel in the Mountains’ crown Go deeper in the Blue Mountains

Situated on the edge the Jamison Valley – part of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park – the award-winning Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is the pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Leura.

Host to a variety of dining outlets along with unmatched leisure facilities including an indoor and outdoor swimming pools, kids-zone play area, basketball and tennis courts, the region’s first ever ice-skating rink, Ubika Day Spa & Wellness Centre, the historic Leura Golf Club and more, the Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is the ultimate holiday destination.

With 224 rooms, ranging from spacious King rooms to luxurious suites, the Fairmont

Resort provides the luxurious accommodation that you need for any occasion, be it a romantic escape for two, or a fun filled weekend away for the whole family. The resort even has pet-friendly rooms available should you want to bring your furry family along.

In addition, Fairmont Resort plays host to various food and beverage offerings, including award-winning Two Doctors Whiskey Tavern, with its cosy interior spaces, leather chesterfields and bookshelves housing vintage books and curios, and the Chef Hat awarded No. 1 Sublime Pt., perfectly positioned to host private dinners and events overlooking the Jamison Valley, ensuring a gastronomic experience that complements the resort’s impeccable hospitality.

Opening Hours : M onday to Saturday – 10am to 5p m (4.30pm during winter months ) S unday – 9:30am to 4:30p m

Did you know, the Blue Mountains is one of the few cities in the world to be surrounded by World Heritage-listed national parks and is one of Australia’s first certified ECO Destinations? Famous the world over for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventure, the Blue Mountains offers even more if you look a little deeper…

The Blue Mountains has always been special.

Not only are the Three Sisters, a unique rock formation, famous globally, the site is importantly a declared Aboriginal Place,

recognising the special cultural, social and historic significance of the site to the Aboriginal community.

Nearby, the Gully is also a declared Aboriginal Place.

Learn more by booking a tour with a local Aboriginal guide for an authentic and fulfilling experience.

There are many guided experiences to uncover, take a tour on the new Grand Cliff Top Walk or take the load off your feet with a 4WD tour.

From spas to stargazing, your mind and body will thank you! After absorbing the rich natural and cultural experiences ‘the Mountains’

has to offer, head to one of the 26 villages scattered throughout the Blue Mountains, each with their own character.

Uncover unique shopping, art deco and boutique hotels, gin parlours and cellar doors on the craft beverage trail, fantastic coffee and locally sourced cuisine at funky cafés and stylish restaurants loved by locals. A day is not enough, stay a while and see how good you feel after a few days in the Blue.

Plan your Blue Mountains experience at visitbluemountains.com.au.

Birches of Leura is located in the beautiful garden village town of Leura in the Blue Mountains, NSW

Stocked with fresh, high-quality plants, Birches of Leura offers a wide range of Natives, Herbs, Seedlings, Fruit Trees, Bulbs, and of course, many beautiful flower varieties, as well as a ccessories and mixes needed to make your garden sing!

The Blue Mountains has an abundance of amazing lookouts.

The picturesque Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains.

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Fantastic way to travel around town

Their buses are iconic all over the Blue Mountains, and now local business

Fantastic Aussie Tours is gearing up to celebrate its 50th birthday later this year.

Fantastic Aussie Tours is a 100 per cent family owned and operated business which began in 1974.

When you travel with Fantastic Aussie Tours, you will be treated as family. They understand coaches, buses and transport but also understand what it’s like especially if you’ve never charted a vehicle before –they are with you every step of the way!

Fantastic Aussie Tours treat their staff and passengers like family, and it’s this friendly, unique and genuine family focus that really sets them apart from the others.

Fantastic Aussie Tours are as local as they come and they have been arranging tours in the Blue Mountains since the mid-1970s, and love to show off their Mountain home.

Fantastic Aussie Tours can also look after event and conference transportation, school and university transfers, airport pick-ups and drop-offs, day tours and Blue Mountains group tours.

Operators of the famous Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, Fantastic Aussie Tours is Carbon Neutral certified, which means they have the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park at heart.

As well as numerous community projects, Fantastic Aussie Tours are proud supporters of Pro Purpose and have also been supporting the One Bus One Child (World Vision) program for many years.

If you’re after a reliable transportation company that provides the very best family focused service to all its passengers, look no further than Fantastic Aussie Tours.

For more information, call 4780 0700 or visit www.fantastic-aussie-tours.com.au.

Blue Mountains Ugg Boots is a true Aussie icon, world famous f or its huge range of or iginal Ugg Boots, Sheepskins, Cow Hides, and gifts.

Hand-crafted, and made from genuine Sheepskin and premium materials, these are the real deal- so why settle for less than the best!

Fantastic Aussie Tours and their fleet of vehicles.

You can’t go wrong with an original pair of ugg boots traditionally hand-crafted in Australia.

Make this hotel your winter escape

Visit the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens – there’s something to see all year round! You’ll find a unique display of rhododendrons, azaleas and deciduous trees planted

Autumn is glorious as our maples and other deciduous trees put on a colour show.

Spring is spectacular when our rhodos are in full bloom. Our tea room is open during peak season in October and early November.

1 Bacchante St Blackheath

Open 9am to 4pm 6pm during daylight saving

$5 entry per adult Children get in for free

Escape to Hotel Mountain Heritage this Yulefest with their exclusive dinner and accommodation package.

Revel in the magic of Christmas in July with a Saturday night stay for two in the heart of Katoomba.

Indulge in a sumptuous 7-course Christmas dinner, where every bite is a celebration of the season.

Keep an eye out for a special appearance from the man in red himself – Santa Claus will be making a magical appearance to create unforgettable moments.

Be mesmerised by live festive performances, adding a joyful soundtrack to your evening.

Get ready to create lasting memories and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experi-

ence a holiday escape like no other. Book now and make this Yulefest one to remember at Hotel Mountain Heritage. Book your Yulefest accommodation and add the Yulefest experience for an additional $360 per couple per twin share ,which includes a delightful breakfast for two in the morning.

Available Saturdays 6, 13, 20 and 27 July 2024, this package promises an unforgettable celebration filled with laughter, joy, and Christmas cheer.

For more information or to book, call 4782 2155 or visit their website mountainheritage. com.au.

Terms and conditions apply. Non-refundable. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, but must be advised at the time of booking. Children must be aged 12 and under to book for a children’s meal.

Hotel Mountain Heritage is located in the heart of Katoomba.

Escape to enchanting

HOTEL MOUNTAIN HERITAGE FOR YULEFEST

WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE DINNER AND ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE.

• Saturday night accommodation for two in the heart of the festivities

• Indulge in a lavish 7-course Christmas Dinner

• Delight in a special visit from Santa Claus, creating magical moments

• Be captivated by live festive performances, adding a joyful soundtrack to your evening

• Wake up to a delightful breakfast for two the next morning

Book your Yulefest accommodation and add our Yulefest experience for an additional $360 per couple twin share. Available Saturdays 6, 13, 20 & 27 July 2024

*Terms and conditions apply. Non-refundable and non-transferrable. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, but must be advised at the time of booking. Children must be aged 12 and under to book the children’s meal.

FGRAND LAUGHS AT NEW SHOW

er Performing Group before transitioning into television.

er, who knew her from back in her early theatre days.

ew Aussie actors have become household names in the same way as Lynne McGranger, who has appeared in Channel Seven’s ‘Home and Away’ as Irene Roberts for over 30 years.

However, when the opportunity arose to take a break from the soap and jump into a new project, she said there was no hesitation.

“When you’ve been doing something for 30odd years, it’s really exciting to do something different,” she told the Weekender “‘Home and Away’ will be there when I finish up in mid-September and I go back, and I’m sure I’ll be excited to rejoin the cast and see my Summer Bay family.”

McGranger started off her career in theatre back in the early ‘70s, performing in amateur shows while she was teaching until becoming involved in the Q Theatre and the Murray Riv-

Though she’s been loving her time on ‘Home and Away’, she admits she’s been yearning to go back to her roots in a fuller capacity for a long time.

“I’ve been lucky enough over the years to do pantomime in the UK – I’ve done that on and off for 25-odd years – and that’s been wonderful, but to do something like this which is a bit more adult-based, even though it’s family-friendly, and to be involved in workshopping things too, and a bit of impro, is just great,” she said.

“‘Home and Away’ is wonderful because you’re living the life of the character you’re playing, but you’re forever learning flippin’ lines! Whereas, when you’re doing a theatre piece, it’s there. The only changes are the audiences you get, and any bits of impro you have on the night.”

Her new project, ‘The Grandparents Club’, was brought to her by its writer Wendy Harm-

As far as its genre goes, McGranger said it’s important to note that ‘The Grandparents Club’ is known as a comedy-musical, as opposed to a musical-comedy.

“Think of the old-fashioned revues, so there’s a bit of stand-up, there’s a few scenes, there’s a bit of song and dance, there’s the odd monologue,” she said.

Alongside Laurence Coy, Andrew James and Meredith O’Reilly, the show will be telling the story of those meeting up in the Grandparents Club, sharing stories of their grandchildren over bingo and trivia.

“You sit down and eat your schnitty and you have your glass of Chardy and you talk about your grandkids,” she said.

Though the show is geared towards grandparents, McGranger said everyone is encouraged to come along when the show makes its way to Penrith next month.

“Hopefully people will recognise themselves

in parts of the show, particularly the grandparents that come, but it’s family-friendly, so we’re encouraging grandparents, and kids, and grandkids, and even great-grandparents to come and see it!” she said.

Promising a lot of laughs, fantastic music, and plenty of familiar scenarios from the show, McGranger said she’s hoping that those buying their tickets are just as excited about the new Australian musical as she is.

“I think because it is my grassroots, I feel very comfortable on stage. I think I’d be more nervous if I was cast in a full length film, because I’d get bored so easily, and I’d be worried that all the sitting around would make me bored, but I don’t think there’ll be any room for boredom in ‘The Grandparents Club’!” she said.

“It’s a 90-minute show, it’s non-stop, it’s exciting and the rest of the cast are wonderful.”

‘The Grandparents Club’ will be on at the EVAN Theatre on Saturday, June 1 at 3pm and 7pm. Tickets are $64.80. To book, visit penrith.panthers.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

Roll up! Roll up! The circus is in town!

From tonight, head down to Penrith Paceway to see Stardust Circus take over. From hilarious clowns, dogs, goats, and ponies, to incredible aerial performances and everything in between, there is definitely no dull moment at Stardust! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit stardustcircus. com.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.

Penrith Markets Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

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

Fibre Frolic Festival hits Penrith

This weekend, Fibre Frolic Festival will be taking over Penrith. From 10am on Saturday, May 4, there will be a number of workshops held at Winbourne in Mulgoa, followed by dinner at a Frolic Knit Night at Nepean Rowing Club. The weekend is then topped off with the main event at Winbourne on Sunday, May 5 from 10am with the Fibre Frolic Festival Market Day.

Probus Club of Nepean

First Wednesday of the month at Emu

Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am.

Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866 for more information.

Penrith Lions Club

Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

Blue Mountains Amateur Radio Club

Club meets at 7pm on the first Friday of the month at the old scout hall at 4 Moore St, Glenbrook. Call Ron on 0408 483 269 for more information.

Red Cross Penrith

Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Penrith NASHOS

Catch one of Australia’s best voices

Australia’s classical cross over tenor with a singing sensation’s voice way beyond his years, Mark Vincent, is heading to The Joan for a very special show this weekend. The show, on this Saturday, May 4 at 2pm, is a celebration of all of Vincent's greatest hits so far since ‘Australia's Got Talent’ and more. For more information, visit thejoan.com.au.

Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

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

Nepean Food Services

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

Free food shop 9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.

MUSEUMS

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

Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

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

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

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

At the movies...

Action comedy ‘The Fall Guy’ is the perfect example of a movie that asks its audience to suspend reality while still delivering a good enough story.

Set in Sydney and boasting an all-star cast including Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Hannah Waddingham and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, ‘The Fall Guy’ is a remake of a 1980s TV series of the same name.

It follows stuntman Colt Seaver (Gosling) as he gets back into the movie industry following an accident as he tries to rekindle his romance

with director Jody (Blunt).

A producer brings Seaver to Sydney to help find missing action star, Tom Ryder (Taylor-Johnson), who, before his accident, Seaver was performing stunts for.

As he searches for the missing action star, Seaver finds himself drugged in a club and seeing unicorns all the way to fighting in the back of a garbage truck across the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Despite the film’s clear dismissal of reality, ‘The Fall Guy’ delivers an enjoyable 125 minutes where Gosling

and Blunt’s natural charm are the saving grace.

The over exaggerated action throughout the film feels like its a message itself especially as director, David Leitch, is a former stunt performer turned director. It feels like a round of applause for all the hardworking stunt men and women, who help to make the movies we see so magical.

While ‘The Fall Guy’ requires a certain level of belief suspension, it is an easy way to spend two hours with a few laughs.

– Emily Chate

www.hoyts.com.au

COUNTRY CORNER

Aldean drops new album With 28 number one singles, 17 billion streams and 20 million albums sold, reigning ACM Artist of the Decade Jason Aldean has released his highly anticipated 11th studio album, ‘Highway Desperado’.

The album also features his current single ‘Let Your Boys Be Country’.

Written by Allison Veltz Cruz, Jaron Boyer, and Micah Wilshire, ‘Let Your Boys Be Country’ highlights the simplicity and innocence of childhood and rural life.

Cash to release new album We lost the legendary Johnny Cash in 2003, but that doesn’t mean we’re not getting new music from the man in black.

‘Songwriter’, made from previously unreleased in 1993 recordings, will be coming out in June.

In early 1993, the Cash found himself between contracts in his then nearly 40-year career and recorded an album’s worth of songwriting demos at LSI Studios in Nashville of songs he’d written over many years.

LSI at the time was owned by his son-in-law Mike Daniels and daughter Rosey, and he wanted to help the family financially while also recording some songs special to him. Not long after the fruitful session, Cash met producer Rick Rubin, and the recordings were shelved as the two embarked on an important and prolific musical partnership that revitalized the Man in Black’s career that would last the rest of his life. Now, they’re coming to life.

The 11-track collection showcases the breadth of

his writing, one that has always represented the great expanse of the human condition: there are songs of love, family, sorrow, beauty, spiritual salvation, survival, redemption, and of course, some of the lighthearted humour Johnny was known for, all sung in his unmistakable, trademark, resonant voice.

The album will be released on June 28.

New top-line collab Lee Brice, Nate Smith and Hailey Whitters have dropped ‘Drinkin’ Buddies’ to the streaming services.

“Cheers to all our Drinkin’ Buddies out there. Huge thanks to Nate and Hailey for bringing this thing all the way home! Can’t wait for y’all to hear this one!” Brice said.

It’s available now.

TV Guide: May 3–9

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America (PG) 10:30 That Pacific Sports Show 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Silent Witness (M v) 2:00 Queen Of Oz (M l) 2:25 White Fever (M l,s) 2:55 Muster Dogs (PG) 3:55 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:40 Grand Designs (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:35 Gardening Australia 8:35 Silent Witness (M l) 9:35 Hard Quiz (PG) 10:10 The Weekly (PG) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Secrets In The Building” (AKA ‘Killer Condo’) (M v) (’22) Stars: Shemeka Wright 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “Last Vegas” (M l,s) (’13) Stars: Kevin Kline 10:40 TBA 11:40 Autopsy USA (MA15+) 12:00 Get On Extra 6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Under A Lover’s Moon” (AKA ‘A Honeymoon To Remember’) (PG) (’21) Stars: Rebecca Dalton 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Broncos v Roosters *Live* 9:55 NRL: Golden Point (M) 10:40 Movie: “No Escape” (MA15+) (’15) Stars: Owen Wilson 12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30

Golf: LIV Golf League: Singapore: Day

*Live* 5:00

(PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00

Friday Night Countdown 7:20 AFL: Round 8: Carlton v Collingwood *Live* 12:00 9-1-1: Lonestar (PG) 3:00 Jabba’s Movies (PG) 3:20 The Real Dirty Dancing (PG) 4:45 Starstruck (PG) 6:00 Movie: “City Slickers II” (PG) (’94) Stars: Jack Palance 8:30 Movie: “War For The Planet Of The Apes” (M v) (’17)

4:05 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Brazil Untamed 7:30 Movie: “The Neverending Story II: The Next Chapter” (M) (’90) Stars: Jonathan Brandis

8:30 Ready Steady Cook (PG) 9:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 11:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 FBI (M v) 1:30 NCIS (PG) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M)

Food Phobics 9:30 River Cottage Australia 5:20 Shortland Street (PG) 5:50 The Curse Of Oak Island (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Hoarders (M) 9:20 Great Erection Deception: Stiff Nights (M s)

2:00 Impractical Jokers (MA15+) 2:30 Rules Of Engagement (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men 9:45 Impractical Jokers (M) 2:15

(M v) 12:30 So

Border Security International (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “2012” (PG) (’09) Stars: Amanda Peet 10:40 Movie: “Dante’s Peak” (M v) (’96) 12:00 Cybershack (PG) 12:30 Explore 1:00 Ageless 1:30 The Pet Rescuers (PG) 2:00 After Impact (PG) 3:15 Lego Masters Australia Vs The Rest Of The World (PG) 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Jeopardy! Australia 8:30 Movie: “The Equalizer” (MA15+) (’14) Stars: Denzel Washington 11:10 Movie: “City Of Lies” (MA15+) (’18) Stars: Johnny Depp 9:00 Exploring Off The Grid 9:30 Food Trail - South Africa 10:00 Ready Steady Cook (PG) 11:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 1:00 All 4 Adventure 2:00 Buy To Build 2:30 Everyday Gourmet 3:00 What’s Up Down

12:30 House Of Wellness (PG) 1:30 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:30 Medical Emergency (PG) 6:00 Heathrow (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 11:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 10:30 Golf: LIV Golf League: Singapore: Day 2 *Live* 5:00 Counting Cars (M) 5:30 Storage Wars (M) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Round 8: Melbourne v Geelong *Live* 10:30 AFL: Post Game 11:00 Movie: “King Of Thieves” (M) 11:30 Ultimate Tag (PG) 1:05 The Real Dirty Dancing (PG) 2:30 Starstruck (PG) 4:00 Frogger (PG) 5:00 Movie: “Pokémon Detective Pikachu” (PG) (’19) Stars: Ryan Reynolds 7:00 Movie: “Runaway Bride” (PG) (’99)

3:00 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 Movie: “The Lego Batman Movie” (PG) (’17) Stars: Will Arnet 7:30 Movie: “Toy Story” (G) (’95) Stars: Tom Hanks 2:00 Dr Quinn Medicine Woman (PG) 3:00 Antiques Roadshow

3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:30 Brazil Untamed 4:20 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:00 Nganampa Anwernekenhe 5:25 Big Sky Girls 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Strait To The Plate 7:00 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 1:00 JAG (PG) 3:00 Escape Fishing With ET 3:30 Football: Liberty ALeague Women’s Grand Final: Melbourne City v Sydney FC *Live* 7:00 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Elimination Final: Sydney FC v Macarthur FC *Live* 9:00 Neighbours (PG) 11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 12:30 Frasier (PG) 1:30 Becker (PG) 2:20 MasterChef Australia (PG) 5:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Two And A Half Men (M) 1:00 Beach House Hunters 1:30 Rock Solid Builds 2:30

5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (M l,s) 9:20 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 5:30 Big Appetite 6:00 The Next Thing You Eat 6:30 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico 7:30 Hairy Bikers Go Local 8:35 Rick Stein’s Food Heroes 10:30 The Wine Show 11:30 Jamie’s Great Britain 1:30 Giada Entertains 4:05 PBS Newshour 5:05 Woman With Gloria Steinem: Canada: The Missing First Nations (PG) 5:30 Shortland Street (PG) 6:00 The Food That Built 7:40 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:35 The Matrix Generation (M v) 3:05 Indycar Series Highlights 4:15 The Bradshaw Bunch (PG) 5:15 Kenan (PG) 5:45 Movie: “Mr. Peabody & Sherman” (PG) (’14) Stars: Ty Burrell 7:30 Movie: “Hunger Games Mockingjay Part 2” (M v) (’15) Stars: Jennifer Lawrence

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Monty Don’s French Gardens 3:30 Forever Summer With Nigella 3:55 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia 4:40 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Call The Midwife (PG) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 1:00 The Salvation Army - Red Shield Appeal 1:30 TBA 3:00 TBA 4:30 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 8:45 TBA 10:00 The Latest Seven News 10:30 Code 1: Minute By Minute (M) 11:30 Quantum Leap (PG) 6:00 Hello SA 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 Sunday Footy Show (PG) 1:00 Fish Forever 1:30 Drive TV 2:00 David Attenborough’s Green Planet (PG) 3:00 NRL: Sharks v Dragons *Live* 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Lego Masters Australia Vs The Rest Of The World (PG) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Late 10:10 The First 48 (MA15+)

2:00 South Aussie With Cosi (PG) 2:30 Medical Emergency (PG)

(M v) (’12)

1:55 Movie: “Pokémon Detective Pikachu” (PG) (’19) Stars: Ryan Reynolds 4:00 Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 5:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 6:30 A Year On Planet Earth 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 4:10 Something Of The Times (PG) 5:00 Leah Purcell: A One Woman Show 6:10 NITV News Update 6:20 Wild New Zealand (PG) 7:30 Everything’s Gonna Be All White (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Loudmouth” (M) (’22) Stars: Al Sharpton

2:00 Movie: “I Live In Grosvenor Square” (G) (’45) Stars: Anna Neagle 4:20 Movie: “Battle Of Midway” (AKA ‘Midway’) (PG) (’76) Stars: Charlton Heston 7:00 Rugby Union: Rugby Pacific: Brumbies v Fijian Drua *Live* From GIO Stadium

11:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Exploring Off The Grid 2:00 What’s Up Down Under 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Elimination Final: Melbourne Victory v Melbourne City *Live* 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M)

Rick Stein’s Road To Mexico 9:35 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 The Wine Show 5:00 Shortland Street (PG) 5:30 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 6:25 Movie: “The Fifth Element” (PG) (’97) Stars: Bruce Willis 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:45 Cycling: Giro d’Italia: Stage 2 *Live* From Turin, Italy 1:35 Dark Side Of The 2000s

10:25 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 11:40 The Neighborhood (PG) 12:30 Ready Steady Cook (PG) 1:30 The Middle (PG) 3:30 So Help Me Todd (PG) 4:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 The Big Bang

3:25 Movie: “Pokémon The Movie: WhiteVictini And Zekrom” (G) (’11) Stars: Rica Matsumoto 5:20 Movie: “Sing” (G) (’16) Stars: Matthew McConaughey 7:30 Movie: “Now You See Me” (PG) (’13) Stars: Jesse Eisenberg

2:35 Movie: “The Captain’s Paradise” (G) (’53) Stars: Alec Guinness 4:30 Movie: “Invitation To A Gunfighter” (PG) (’64) Stars: Yul Brynner 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Dunkirk” (PG) (’17) Stars: Fionn Whitehead Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

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6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00 Horrible Histories (PG) 7:35 Kung Fu

Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00 Horrible Histories (PG) 7:35 Kung Fu Panda:

6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00 Horrible

6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Brazil Untamed 7:30 Kickin’ Back With Gilbert McAdam 12:30 FBI (M v) 1:30 NCIS (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

(M l,s) 8:30 Cycling: Giro d’Italia: Stage 5 *Live* From Turin, Italy 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 7:00 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG)

8 Out

12:00 ABC News 1:00 This Is Going To Be Big (PG) 2:00 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 2:25 QI (PG) 3:00 Ningaloo Nyinggulu 3:55 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:40 Grand Designs (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Foreign Correspondent 8:30 Martin ClunesIslands Of Australia (PG)

12:00 Movie: “A Jealous Friendship” (M) (’21) Stars: Tahnee Harrison 2:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 8:30 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 9:55 Border Security International (PG)

12:00 Movie: “Love Stories In Sunflower Valley” (PG) (’21) Stars: Erin Cahill 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Dolphins v Sea Eagles *Live* 9:45 NRL: Knock Off 10:30 NINE News Late

Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:20 Judge Judy (PG) 1:50 MasterChef Australia (PG) 3:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG)

5:30 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble (PG) 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By (M) 8:40 Midsomer Murders (M l,v)

PLENTY OF OPTIONS WITH THIS PENRITH PROPERTY

This is your last oppor tunit y to secure a luxur y apar tment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the hear t of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apar tment features ample floor space, sophisticated styl e and the finest finishes

Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction , the residence is completed to a high standard with:

• Miele oven, gas cook top, rangehood, buil t-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedroom s

• Ground floor entr y, two levels of secure parking and a communal roof top with barbeque faciliti es

ORAN P ARK

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Tabitha R., Jamisontown

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

My verdict on the new, must-have product known as Tubing Mascara

If you’re not using a tubing mascara in 2024, what are you doing?

Tubing mascaras, despite looking exactly the same as regular mascaras on the eyes, wrap each individual lash in water-resistant, tube-like polymers rather than coating all the lashes in pigment together. This means that not only are they smudge-free, they’re also significantly easier to remove, meaning for people like me who dread taking their makeup off at night solely for this reason, they’re truly life-changing.

If you’ve been looking to give one a go, here are my thoughts on some of the most popular tubing mascaras on the market right now.

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara Retailing for $43 for 8mL,

the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara is described as being a lash-extending 24-hour flakefree, smudge-proof long-wear mascara that creates a false lash effect on the eyes.

THE VERDICT: I like this mascara a lot. The shape of the wand does an excellent job at creating length and volume without too many coats. However, whilst this one does wash off relatively easy, it doesn’t come off in that traditional tubing mascara style, and is instead more comparable with a traditional mascara.

Mecca Max Whip Lash Tubing Mascara

Mecca Max’s Whip Lash Tubing Mascara retails for $26,

making it the most affordable of the bunch. This one has a focus on lengthening, promising to make your lashes longer and longer with each coat.

THE VERDICT: Whilst it’s not bad for the price, this one definitely isn’t my favourite. I find that it takes quite a few coats to layer it up for my desired look, however if you wanted longer natural lashes, this could be a good choice –especially because it comes in brown! I prefer Mecca Max’s Wink Ink Super Mascara which, although isn’t a tubing mascara, I find comes off fairly similarly to the Tarte option.

Clinique High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara

Clinique’s High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara is said to instantly lift and curl lashes by 50 per cent, and keep them lifted for 24 hours. Retailing for $53, it is the most expensive on the list.

THE VERDICT: Initially, I wasn’t really a fan of this mascara. However, I do think its performance has improved with time as the formula has dried out a little more. The wand tends to struggle to grip my lashes, meaning it takes a while to build up. But, it removes flawlessly with water. Overall, I do think there are better options for cheaper!

Velour Lashes Pretty Big Deal Peptide & Tubing Mascara

The Velour Lashes Pretty Big Deal Peptide & Tubing Mascara comes in at $40 for 9mL of product. It’s described as a 3-in-1 lengthening mascara infused with a peptide-packed lash serum to deeply condition and nourish lashes.

THE VERDICT: For me, this mascara provides the perfect happy medium. Though the Tarte option beats out the look of this one on the eyes slightly, this one is easier to remove with water, and $3 cheaper.

Get the care your pet deser ves at Orchard Hills Veterinar y Hospital!

At Orchard Hills Veterinar y Hospital, we understand that your pet is a cherished family member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pet care ser vices to animals across the Penrith district.

We offer:

• Vaccinations • Radiography

• Microchipping • Surger y

• Dental care • Ultrasound

PREANESTHETIC BLOODWORK

Preanesthetic bloodwork is a vital component of ensuring the safety and well-being of our beloved pets during surgical procedures. Just like humans, animals undergoing anaesthesia face certain risks, and preanesthetic bloodwork helps lessen those risks by providing crucial insights into the animal’s health status prior to surgery.

So, what exactly does preanesthetic bloodwork entail and why is it recommended by veterinarians? Essentially, it involves two primary components: a complete blood count (CBC) and a serum biochemistry.

The CBC assesses the cellular composition of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Abnormalities in these cell counts can indicate underlying health issues that may impact the animal’s ability to undergo anaesthesia safely. For instance, low red blood cell counts can signify anaemia, while elevated white blood

cell counts may suggest infection or inflammation. Platelet abnormalities could increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.

On the other hand, the serum biochemistry examines various chemicals in the blood associated with organ function. This includes assessing liver and kidney function, blood glucose levels, serum proteins, and electrolyte balance. Abnormalities in these parameters could indicate potential organ dysfunction or metabolic disorders, which may affect the animal’s response to anaesthesia and overall surgical outcome.

So, why is preanesthetic bloodwork valuable? Firstly, it helps veterinarians identify any underlying health issues that may pose risks during anaesthesia. By detecting these issues beforehand, veterinarians can take appropriate measures to address them, such as adjusting the anaesthesia protocol or postponing surgery until the pet’s condition is stabilised.

KELLIE TICKNER

Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

It is important to note that preanesthetic bloodwork provides valuable baseline data that allows veterinarians to tailor the anaesthesia protocol to the individual needs of the animal. For example, if a pet has impaired liver or kidney function, adjustments can be made to the choice and dosage of anaesthetic drugs to minimise the risk of complications. It serves as a proactive approach to ensuring the overall well-being of your pet. By conducting these tests, veterinarians can optimise the safety of the surgical procedure and minimise the potential for postoperative complications.

68.

71.

72.

74. Schoolboys

76. Pot tops

78. Snake-like fi sh

80. East-northeast (1,1,1)

83. Belonging to us

Word Search

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

Theme: FLYING

PROPELLER

ROCKET

ROTORCRAFT

ZEPPELIN

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about all things ‘Star Wars’ in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. Which ‘Star Wars’ TV series is Grogu a major star of?

2. Which year did ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’ arrive in cinemas?

3. Who is Luke Skywalker’s father?

4. Which major US theme park is home to ‘Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge’?

5. Which episode in the ‘Star Wars’ saga is ‘Return of the Jedi?

6. Which famous actress played Princess Leia?

7. The movie ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ is centred on which major character?

8. Which movie studio were the prequel films mainly shot at?

Camille and all the

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

bohoastro.com

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2023

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

With the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and your ruler Uranus visiting your domestic zone, Home Sweet Home is the place to be this week. Expect a fresh start involving a relative, a renovation or DIY project, a new home or an additional family member. Or perhaps you’ll receive some surprising news about a pregnancy, engagement, marriage or divorce! A financial matter looks solid, as long as you’ve done your homework and got a second opinion.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

It’s time for Bulls to bewitch and bewilder! With the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus all lighting up your sign, your positive and negative Taurean traits are boosted this week. So expect to be more sensual, stable, patient and dependable … and more possessive, pedantic, slow-moving and stubborn! Your motto for the moment is from iconic Taurus actress (and birthday great) Katharine Hepburn, “My greatest strength is common sense.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Your career is about to get a welcome shot in the arm as Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and the New Moon all barnstorm through your work zone. So it’s time to show your boss, colleagues and competitors what you are truly capable of. With an extra boost from the Sun/Saturn link, it’s definitely time to be brave, bold, organised and businesslike. Draw inspiration from Hollywood movie star (and birthday great) Katharine Hepburn, “Without discipline, there’s no life at all.”

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

The Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus are all transiting through your partnership zone. So, when it comes to relationships (of the romantic and platonic variety) expect the unexpected! But avoid being a stubborn Scorpio. Instead, loosen up, go with the intuitive flow, and keep your negative thoughts to yourself. As Joni Mitchell (a fellow Scorpio) observes, “There are things to confess that enrich the world, and things that need not be said.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Have you been pandering to other people Pisces? The Sun and Saturn encourage you to stand strong and make decisions that suit you. A current situation has more flexible options than you previously thought. Past mistakes can be fixed, contracts can be cancelled, and agreements can be broken. Your motto is from birthday great, singer and activist Bono, “The world is more malleable than you think, and it’s waiting for you to hammer it into shape.”

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Communicating with others becomes complicated and nuanced, as the New Moon urges you to dig beneath the surface and get to the bottom of an old emotional issue. You’re also keen to assist someone in need but resist the urge to indulge in gratuitous gossip. Courtesy of the Sun/Saturn link, Tuesday favours being as disciplined and organised as you possibly can. Whereas Wednesday is all about escaping through the power of your imagination.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Most Virgos have very high expectations. On Tuesday the Sun connects with Saturn, which will amplify your perfectionist streak. Which could lead to unwanted stress when you have to deal with New Moon changes, unfamiliar situations and/or updated information. You’ll discover that perfection is hard to find! So your motto for the week is from Spanish painter (and birthday great) Salvador Dali, “Have no fear of perfection … you’ll never reach it.”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Sagittarians can be very scattered, but this week the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter (your power planet) and Uranus are all transiting through the earthy, steady sign of Taurus. So you will feel more grounded, focused and settled than usual. The mid-week New Moon also suggests a fresh start involving work or health as you commence a new job, devise a more nutritious diet, or reboot your fitness routine. Tuesday is terrific for work matters and family functions.

HOROSCOPES ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Have you been shopping up a storm when you should have been saving or paying off debt? Expect a financial hiccup as the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus highlight money matters (and also bring up issues involving your personal values and self-esteem). You’ll find the less you base your core self-worth on money, status, image, physical appearance and unrealistic media expectations of what beauty is, the happier and healthier you’ll be.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and the New Moon activate your hopes, dreams and wishes zone, so divert your attention away from current problems and draw up a wish-list for the rest of 2024. Don’t waste the opportunity to escape into your imagination, set intentions and dream ambitious dreams for the future. The Sun and Saturn stimulate your travel and education zone, so it’s important to keep in touch with school mates, college friends and/or international contacts.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Prosperity planets Venus and Jupiter (plus Uranus and the New Moon) are transiting through your ‘money-fromothers zone’. So some lucky Librans will benefit from an inheritance, gift, bonus, divorce settlement, insurance claim, bumper tax return or superannuation pay-out. Make sure you spend any windfall wisely, with a view to future financial security. Mars and Mercury are in your relationship zone, so be proactive about communicating with others.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The Sun makes a positive connection with your ruler Saturn, so concentration is high, your attention to detail is even better than usual, and any work you do will be of an extremely high standard. Coupled Capricorn – it’s a wonderful week to work on deepening the love and commitment between the two of you. If you are looking for lasting love, don’t accept second best. Be discriminating, as you patiently wait for the right person to come along.

RAIN THREATENS NETBALL OPENER

Story continued from » p.80

One interesting quirk the Association has discovered is more senior players are playing netball again, with junior numbers slightly down.

“I’m not sure whether the Active Kids vouchers – under the new format – have something to do with it,” Gillett said.

“In the past, anyone with school-aged children could apply for them but this year it’s means tested and you have to be receiving some sort of government benefit in order to qualify for one.

“I think those new vouchers as well as other sports offering incentive deals to come and play, has had an effect. That’s not just us locally, but state-wide.”

Meanwhile, Penrith’s partnership with Greater Bank has extended into a fourth year. The partnership sees specialist equipment provided for players six-years and under, such as age-appropriate balls and hoops.

“The financial support from Greater Bank for grassroots netball is vital to netball in our community,” Gillett said.

Rivalry re-ignited

It’s been 30 years since two bitter rivals did battle in the decider

The year 1994 saw the great Nelson Mandela elected President of South Africa, the death of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, and the infamous O.J. Simpson car chase across Los Angeles, but the year also marked the battle between Emu Plains and Cambridge Park in the Penrith District Junior Rugby League A-Grade Grand Final.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Emu Plains’ triumph over their bitter rivals, the two clubs will be going at it once again, with four games set down for next Saturday, May 11 at Leonay Oval.

The fun kicks off at 3pm when Emu Plains and Cambridge Park meet in the U17 Division 1 game. That will be followed by the clubs’ U19 Division 1 contest at 4.10pm.

Emu Plains and Cambridge Park will then go head-to-head in the Jan Cameron Trophy at 5.30pm before the night concludes with the A-Grade war

for the Don Feltis Cup at 7pm. Excitingly, there won’t just be four games of footy on the bill, but a whole afternoon and evening of fun for spectators to enjoy.

On top of the usual sausage and steak sandwiches, the club will be offering up delicious roast beef and pork rolls for the first time. Western Sydney Donuts will be selling their tasty treats until sold out. A jumping castle, face painting and rides will be available for the kids. Meat trays and a fabulous Mother’s Day raffle will be up for grabs. And of course, the bar will be fully

stocked with beer and wine for the adults.

“It’s going to be massive!” Emu Plains Club Event Coordinator, Tony Vella told the Weekender

“This will be our first night match of the year. There’s not much to do in Penrith for families at night, so this is a great opportunity to come sit on the hill and watch some great games of footy all for free.”

With Panthers Juniors handing Emu Plains a rare night match this season, they decided to go all out to celebrate the anniversary of their A-Grade title against Cambridge Park.

“They gave us the opportunity to run this one with Cambridge Park and it ends up being the 30th anniversary of our A-Grade Grand Final with them,” Vella said.

“There’s a big history between the two clubs. It’s full on. It’s wild!

“We’ve been pretty strong the past 10 years, but Cambridge Park go alright too.”

With Mother’s Day the next day, Saturday’s festivities could be a great way to kick things off.

Todd Brian, Aaron Mallet, Will Broadhead, Tom Romer, Tony Vella.

NATHAN TAYLOR

SPORTS SHORTS

NATHAN TAYLOR

Wanderers get no help, miss Finals

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers won’t play Finals football this weekend after they finished the regular season in seventh position after 27 rounds. Despite winning their final match of the year, the Wanderers didn’t get any help from Western United, who needed to defeat Melbourne City last Sunday to send Western Sydney through. The Wanderers came from two goals down last Saturday night to beat Melbourne Victory 4-3 at AAMI Park. Victory sprung out of the blocks and had a two-goal lead after just 15 minutes, but Western Sydney were level at 2-2 by half-time, after Olyroos duo Lachlan Brook and Nicolas Milanovic scored in quick succession on their return from the U23 Asian Cup. Daniel Arzani secured his brace in the second half to make it 3-2 and with Western Sydney needing a win to keep their Finals hopes alive, young duo Aydan Hammond and Oscar Priestman both scored their very first A-League goals to turn the tide and secure a dramatic 4-3 win for the visitors. All the Wanderers needed to reach the post-season was a Western United win over City the following day, however they were not able to get the job done, losing 1-0. While Western Sydney won’t play Finals football in back-to-back seasons, fellow Sydney clubs – Sydney FC and Macarthur – will feature and will take on each other this Saturday night in an Elimination Final at Allianz Stadium. Western Sydney finished the season with 11 wins, four draws and 12 losses.

AFL: The GWS Giants have bounced back after last week’s loss in a big way, smashing 2023 Grand Finalists Brisbane in Round 7 of the AFL. Playing at their home away from home in Canberra, the Giants handed Brisbane their largest loss of the year – 54 points. The 113-59 victory was the perfect response from the premiership-favourite Giants after last week’s defeat to Carlton, with their running game slicing up the Lions when they took over the contest. Despite missing their skipper Toby Greene, key back Sam Taylor and star midfielder Stephen Coniglio, the Giants didn’t skip a beat. One of the games of the season awaits the third-placed Giants this weekend when they battle the second-placed Sydney Swans on Saturday afternoon at the SCG. A sold-out crowd is expected for the first Sydney Derby of the season as both sides aim to win some early season bragging rights. The first bounce is at 1.45pm and the match will be shown live on Channel Seven.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have returned to the paddock with a monster win, smashing

the Randwick City Saints 117-31 in Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. The 86-point win at Greygums Oval was much-needed after a slow start to the season. Dylan Nelson booted six goals in the victory. The Rams will look for back-to-back wins when they take on the South West Sydney Blues on Saturday afternoon at Greygums Oval. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes have chalked up their first win of the year, beating the St George Dragons 16-7 in Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes will face the Inner West Magpies this Saturday morning at Greygums.

NETBALL: Panthers Netball have lost two-ina-row, going down to the Sutherland Stingrays 57-43 in Round 5 of the Netball NSW Premier League Opens competition. Meanwhile, the Panthers U23s team have bounced back to record a 49-46 victory over the Stingrays. Both sides will take on competition newcomers the South West Mounties Magic in Round 6.

SUPER NETBALL: Giants Netball remain winless after three rounds, hammered by the Melbourne Vixens 63-44 in Round 3 of the Super Netball competition. The Giants were hoping to get their first win of 2024 on the board, but the Vixens continued their dominant run and produced a strong four-quarter performance, notching another win under their belt this season. The Giants will travel to Adelaide this Saturday night as they continue to search for their first win of the year.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 6 of the NSWRL Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend, with mixed results for St Marys. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys went down to the Ryde Eastwood Hawks 23-10. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys

got the job done in heart-stopping fashion 28-26. This weekend in the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys will battle the Glebe Dirty Reds, while Brothers Penrith will return from the bye to take on the Ryde Eastwood Hawks. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys will play Manly Leagues, while Brothers Penrith will face off against the Ryde Eastwood Hawks.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have had a disappointing weekend during Round 4 of the NBL1 East Men’s competition. On Friday night, Penrith were crushed by the Hills Hornets 109-78, while on Saturday night, they didn’t fare much

better against the Newcastle Falcons 80-65. Meanwhile, Penrith’s women’s team enjoyed an 84-72 victory over the Hills Hornets on Friday before going down to the Falcons 80-75 the following day. In an unbelievable display of offence, Penrith skipper Tahlia Tupaea bucketed 63 points across the two games. Both teams will play the Canberra Gunners/ Nationals this Saturday at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre.

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message me on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

The Wanderers score. Photo: Getty.

Penrith star Tahlia Tupaea.

The Penrith Rams. Photo: Charlotte White.

NETBALL’S BACK!

For the third year in a row, rain threatens to wash out the opening weekend of Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) winter season.

Mother Nature clearly isn’t a netball fan, with heavy rain forecast for the Jamison Park area this Saturday.

Penrith Netball management says it will do everything in its power to assure games

can be played, however if the courts are too wet they’ll be forced to pull the pin.

“We will do our best to carry on but if it’s torrential rain on Friday night then we might have to call it off, but we’ll try wait until Saturday morning to make the final decision,” PDNA President, Joy Gillett told the Weekender on Monday.

“The courts drain quickly once the rain stops for a couple of hours, they dry out.

“They’re meant to be all-weather courts, but if it rains it’ll wash out the March Past

and all the fun that goes with that, and that’s a real shame.”

Penrith Netball’s traditional March Past event is one of the highlights of the local sporting calendar, with 2024 set to be no different.

The winning club will once again be bestowed the Jan Jackson March Past trophy for celebrating everything we love about netball.

Gillett said the key to catching the atten tion of the judges is plenty of colour and

plenty of people.

“Make it bright and colourful – that’s my tip,” she said.

“I know a couple of clubs have got their eye on the trophy again, and I appreciate all the effort the clubs put in to getting the

NATHAN TAYLOR