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WBY KERRIE DAVIES
ELL, well, well… if you thought the election campaign was the main event, the past week in politics has proved it was just the warm-up act. What was tagged by many as “the most boring election campaign ever” has been followed up with a plot-twist at every turn. Honestly, if things keep up at this pace, we might have to start handing out popcorn with the news.
In just over a week we’ve had ballot papers allegedly found at an election worker’s house, a senator leave one party to join another and a public outburst from a politician who has lost his spot in the ministry.
Over in Liberal-land, the party has dusted off the existential crisis manual and is doing a deep dive into some good old-fashioned soul-searching.
But amidst the commotion, a milestone: Sussan Ley has become the first female Opposition Leader and Leader of the Liberal Party. Ley edged out Angus Taylor in a party room vote (29 to 25).
I don’t think anyone who is realistic would underestimate the task Sussan Ley has ahead of her, but here’s hoping that she is successful in reuniting the party. Having too much dominance by one party isn’t great on any level of government; a tough opposition is needed to hold the governing party to account. Strong competition is an important factor in elections so here’s hoping the party evolves into a united one that can read the room and shape fresh policies accordingly.
The re-election of MP Melissa McIntosh is proof that the local electorate in Lindsay are happy with their representation and open to listen to what the Coalition has to say.
So buckle up, folks. If this is week one post-election, the next few months could outdo your favourite soap opera. Democracy may be messy, but at least it’s not boring!
BY
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OVER the last five years, Penrith City Council’s ‘Greening our City’ tree planting program has seen over 6,600 trees planted in heat vulnerable suburbs across the local government area.
The program targeted suburbs Council identified as having low tree canopy and were susceptible to heat risks.
The ‘Be Cool to School’ program, which concluded last year, saw 1,971 trees planted in Cambridge Park, specifically on nature strips along active transport routes, streets linking parks, shops and schools, and along walking routes through parks in the suburb.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney praised the program and was pleased Council continued to have the support of residents and business owners with the ‘Be Cool to School’ project.
“Over the last five years, we’ve received feedback from residents and business owners about the importance of trees being planted in their communities,” Carney said.
“Our community members at Cambridge Park were thrilled to see Council taking a proactive approach to increasing tree canopy and reducing the potential for heat in the area. We also had residents request additional trees to be planted outside of their houses, which we were able to accommodate.”
The ‘Greening our City’ program also invited residents to plant trees themselves, with Council’s award-winning and beloved Trees for Mum 2023 event resulting in 370 trees planted. The majority of the plantings have successfully established and boosted biodiversity and shade in the area.
“This tree planting supports Council’s Cooling the City and Green Grid strategies, which aim to increase the tree canopy across the City. These trees will make a big difference when established, cooling streets that our students walk along to go to and from school,” Cr Carney said.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government has invested $614,000 to the ‘Be Cool to School’ program to plant just over 1,900 trees in Cambridge Park.
“In January 2020, Penrith was the hottest place
on earth, so it’s important we use every tool in our arsenal to combat urban heat,” Mr Scully said. “Delivering more trees means cooler suburbs, increased shade and better public spaces for people, birds and wildlife.”
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said this has been a great collaboration of the NSW Government and Penrith City Council to combat urban heat.
“These trees have not only enhanced the look of our neighborhoods, but they’re proven to have a natural cooling effect,” Ms McKeown said.
“Penrith residents know the effects of urban heating all too well, so I’m proud to be part of a government that is taking action to combat its effect.”
The ‘Greening our City’ tree planting program has seen trees planted in Erskine Park, St Clair, Colyton, North St Marys, Oxley Park, and Cambridge Park since 2020. Council continues to increase tree canopy across the Penrith local government area with other tree planting programs.
Community members can get involved in helping increase tree canopy in our bushlands at penrith. city/bushland
For more information about the program, visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/greeningourcity
The project is funded by the NSW Government’s Greening our City grant. For more information visit www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/greeningour-city-grant
Circle the June long weekend for Winter Solstice!
CITY Park will transform into a winter wonderland with an ice-staking rink, snow machine and roving performers! There will be plenty of street food, live music at High Street restaurants, free family-friendly entertainment and activities for all to enjoy.
Rug up and embrace the cool Penrith evenings over the June long weekend at Winter Solstice!
From Friday 6 June to Monday 9 June 2025 City Park will come alive with plenty of winter fun everyone can enjoy. Times Friday 6 - Sunday 8 June 2025 - 4pm to 9pm Monday 9 June 2025- 10am to 3pm
What’s on:
• Ice skating rink
• Live music at High Street restaurants
• Pop-up bar with a selection of mulled wines and brews
It’s the perfect way to chill, skate and enjoy a night out in the heart of Penrith.
Entry is free! Wear your warm winter woollies, bring your appetite and be ready to have some cool fun at Winter Solstice.
Road closures- Parts of Allen Place Carpark will be closed from 6am Monday 2 June to 5pm Tuesday 10 June to enable event bump in. There will be changed traffic conditions during the event to ensure public and pedestrian safety at the event.
Parking
Parking will be available at: Allen Place Carpark
Edwards Place Carpark
Masters Place Carpark
The event location is a minute walk from Penrith Station.
ON International Nurses Day, the passion, dedication and contributions of our nurses and midwives were celebrated at the annual Together Nursing and Midwifery awards.
NBMLHD Director for Nursing and Midwifery, Kim Maddock recognised the extraordinary compassion and commitment to excellence the winners bring to their profession.
“Today we celebrate nurses and midwives whose talents extend far beyond the bedside. From clinical care to leadership, our award winners embody a profound depth of skill and an unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality,” said Kim.
“Their dedication ensures that every patient receives exceptional care, no matter where they encounter our health system. What a privilege it is to celebrate their amazing accomplishments and acknowledge the significant difference they make to our patients.”
Congratulations to:
Midwife of the Year: Caitlin Brown Aboriginal Nurse of the Year: Jemma Sutton Nurse of the Year: Rukshana Sheikh
New to Practice Nurse of the Year: Asmita Thapa & Nicolas Graham
Nursing Team of the Year: Rehabilitation Ward, Blue Mountains Hospital
Nursing Leader of the Year: Reenie Kuypers
NBMLHD Lifetime Achievement Award: Glenise Shelley
BY SUSAN TEMPLEMAN MP
“I AM deeply honoured to be reappointed as Special Envoy for the Arts by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Over the past three years, it has been my privilege to meet with artists and arts workers across Australia, to advocate for their interests, to celebrate their accomplishments and to better understand the challenges that they face.
I look forward to continuing to support Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke as he continues to implement our national cultural policy, Revive, which has
already had a profound impact on the vitality of the arts sector. We know that there is much more work to do, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it.
I will work hard every day to ensure that the voice of our arts community is heard and that our government is responsive to its needs.
I will continue to fight for the people of Macquarie – a community that is renowned for its creative spirit and puts arts and culture at the heart of social life.
I’m proud to be part of a government that respects the contribution that our artists make, supports their ambitions and understands the value that creativity adds to our everyday lives.”
GENESISCARE is marking five years of service at its Kingswood centre, which brings more healthcare options and integrated cancer care closer to home for patients living across the Nepean and the Blue Mountains. Patients can access radiation oncology, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, haematology, Nepean Pets as Therapy and onsite McGrath nurses for breast cancer support at the GenesisCare Kingswood centre. Located within the Nepean Health Precinct, the centre is within walking distance of pathology and imaging services and other allied health professionals often required during cancer treatment schedules.
Linda Byrnes, Centre Leader at GenesisCare’s Kingswood facility said: “We are proud to mark five years of offering patient-centred, evidence-based cancer care in Kingswood. Our energetic team goes above and beyond to offer compassion alongside clinical excellence.
“It’s the little extras and the deep local knowledge of our long-term team members that makes our approach to care so personalised. A patient may need an extra warm blanket during treatment, help finding an allied health professional nearby or knowledge of local transport and accommodation. Our team aims to make treatment easier in small ways, as much as they can.”
The doctors at GenesisCare Kingswood are also well established in the local healthcare network and know the neighbourhood well. Three new doctors have recently joined the Kingswood team including Dr Andrew Parsonson, a medical oncologist with a clinical interest in breast and gastrointestinal cancer, Dr Roland Yeghiaian-Alvandi, a radiation oncologist covering lung cancer and palliative radiation therapy and Dr Lakmalie Perera, a radiation oncologist covering skin cancer treatment and a new head and neck cancer service at the centre.
The team at GenesisCare’s Kingswood centre maintains a close working relationship with the Nepean Public Hospital across the road and the centre plays an important role in the local healthcare system by providing more options for cancer care.
For more information about GenesisCare at Kingswood, please visit our website: www. genesiscare.com/au/our-centres/kingswood
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE City of Penrith RSL subBranch is happy to advise Mr Anthony Eddie was recently elected President to fill the vacant position. Anthony is married to Narelle, and they have three adult children living at home in Penrith. He medically retired from the Australian Army in February 2024, and has volunteered his time in the sub-Branch since then.
Anthony served in the Royal Australian Army, mainly located at RAAF Base Richmond as an Air Dispatcher, rising from the rank of Private up to the rank of Warrant Officer Class One in a career that spanned over 30 years.
“I have been a part of the Penrith community for a long time as a serving member, and I participated in my first Penrith ANZAC Day service way back in 1994. Penrith is my family’s home now and we are proud to be part of this great community,” he said.
“Leaving the ADF after a 30-year career can be a challenging step for many with medical issues like me. I was aware of that and decided to get involved in the sub-Branch right from
(L-R): Ms Tania Sloan (Administration Assistant), Mrs Wilma Taylor (Auxiliary), Mrs Sandra Smith (Auxiliary) , Mrs Clara Elliott (Auxiliary Coordinator), Mr Bob Oscar (Museum), Mr Len Halvorsen (Vice President), Mr Tony Kennedy, Mr John Chandler (Museum), Mr Anthony Eddie (President) and Mr Tony Kornacki (Museum). Absent - Mr Peter Ward (Secretary), John Fenton (Vice President), Mr Gary Scott (Treasurer)
the start, albeit slowly to start with. I have really enjoyed the comradery and energy in the Branch, and I am inspired to continue to build upon what has ben achieved over many years by many great Committee members before me.
“I was honoured to be elected as the President of the City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch, and I really look forward to working with this great Committee and our great volunteers, who are all striving to modernise and improve Veteran services in our community,’” he said.
“Our new modern Museum is
expected to be opened in July this year, so the Museum team and the Committee is working really hard to make this as good as it can be for the benefit of our Veterans and the community. The team is putting together something really special, including all of the post-Vietnam ADF conflicts, which has been a real body of work. We can’t wait to show people through.”
Members of the sub-Branch committee and representatives of the Penrith RSL Auxiliary met at the War Memorial in Memory Park last week to indicate the close working
relationship between them, and for the future.
The Auxiliary was originally formed by mothers, wives, widows, sisters, daughters and aunts of men who served in the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) in the 1st World War (1914-1918).
Now comprising of both men and women, the volunteers work to raise funds for the wellbeing of current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and their families.
There are currently more than 90 Auxiliaries in NSW, despite closures in small country regions due to lack of numbers.
City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch: Number of members - over 500, Committe Members are: PresidentAnthony Eddie; Vice President - Len Halverson; Vice President - John Fenton; Treasurer - Gary Scott; Secretary - Peter Ward; Committee Member - Bob Oscar; Committee Member - Tony Kennedy
City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch Auxiliary Team: Number of volunteer members - 22; Coordinator - Mrs Clara Elliott; Assistant coordinator - Mrs Wilma Taylor; Assistant co-ordinator - Mrs Sandra Smith
MR Len Halvorsen, Vice President of the City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch, gave the following prologue at Memory Park on 8th May, as members of the Penrith community, friends, relatives and dignitaries gathered together to commemorate VE Day.
On 3 September 1939, Australians everywhere tuned into their radios and listened to Prime Minister Robert Menzies commence an address to the nation.
Nazism, with its poisonous doctrine of hate and subjugation, was on its brutal march through Europe.
‘Fellow Australians, it is my melancholy duty to inform you officially that, in consequence of the persistence of Germany in her invasion of Poland, Great Britian has declared war upon her, and that as a result, Australia is also at war,” Mr Menzies said.
“No harder task can fall to the lot of a democratic leader than to make such an announcement.”
This was the start of Australia’s involvement in the Second World War. It would last an excruciating six years; with nearly a million Australians proudly serving our country in Europe, North Africia, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific and here at home.
In 1940 the Royal Australian Navy saw action in the Mediterranean Sea
and a small contingent of Australians flew in the Battle of Britian. It was not until 1941, however, that the Australian Army was deployed to the Mediterranean and North Africa.
This years’ service in Memory Park marks the 80th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
In Europe, war ended at midnight on 8 May 1945, VE day, after the cornered remnants of the German High Command signed an unconditional surrender. But that was not the end of the war for Australia. It would be another three months before Imperial Japan, on 15 August 1945, accepted the surrender terms of the Allies, which clinched Victory in the Pacific: VP Day.
Devastatingly nearly 40,000 Australians were lost in the Second
World War with over 30,000 taken as prisoners of war, and tens of thousands wounded physically and mentally for a lifetime.
May we and our successors prove worthy of their sacrifice.
In attendance were Group Captain Adam Saber (Deputy Commander Air Mobility Group), who read the Commemorative Address, RAAF Base Richmond provided the Catafalque Party, Chaplain Karen Davison, Bugler Sgt Curtis Wilcox (Australian Army Band, Sydney), Warrant Officer Bruce Homewood (HQ Air Command), Ms Julia Parashko (National Anthem), along with dignitaries including Melissa McIntosh MP, Federal Member for Lindsay, Penrith City Mayor Todd Carney and fellow councillors Garion Thain and Hollie McLean.
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
FOR many pet owners, leaving the house isn’t just a goodbye — it’s the start of a guilt-ridden, heartbreaking routine. The moment the keys jingle or shoes go on, the signs begin: barking, whining, pacing, or that dreaded scratching at the door. These are not just bad habits — they’re symptoms of a deeper emotional struggle known as separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a condition where pets, particularly dogs, experience significant distress when apart from their owners. Cats can suffer from it too, though it’s often harder to detect. The behaviours can be frustrating — chewed furniture,
toilet accidents, loud vocalisation — but underneath the destruction is a pet that’s truly struggling.
It’s a scenario many owners find both exhausting and emotional. After all, we love our pets, but it can be difficult to cope with the aftermath of a single workday — torn blinds, soiled carpets, and neighbours complaining about the noise. What often gets lost in the frustration is that our pets aren’t being naughty — they’re scared, confused, and overwhelmed.
Some common signs of separation anxiety include:
• Barking, howling, or whining as soon as you leave or even while you’re getting ready to go.
• Destructive behaviour, such as chewing doors or windows.
• Urinating or defecating inside, even in house-trained pets.
• Pacing, trembling, or drooling excessively.
• Attempts to escape, which can lead to injury.
Certain pets are more prone to developing separation anxiety. A
tightly bonded dog or one that has experienced changes in their routine — such as a recent move, a new baby, or the return to office life — may suddenly start showing signs. Past trauma or time spent in shelters can also contribute to anxious behaviours. The good news? Help is available. But like any meaningful progress, it requires time, patience, and consistent effort.
Start by gradually helping your pet become more comfortable being alone. This means short departures at first, with plenty of calm praise and treats when they remain relaxed. Enrich their environment with toys, puzzle feeders, or calming music. Keep departures and arrivals low-key, to reduce the sense of drama. And most importantly, stick to a regular routine — predictability can be incredibly comforting to anxious pets.
In some cases, you may need to consult your vet or a certified animal behaviourist who can guide you through a tailored behaviour plan. Medication may be recommended for more severe cases, but it is often used in conjunction with behaviour therapy, not as a standalone solution.
Separation anxiety doesn’t disappear overnight, but with the right support, you can help your pet feel safe, even when you’re not around. You’re not alone in this — and neither is your pet. For more information, contact Orchard Hills veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
FRIENDS of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to
online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.
For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.
Meet Tabitha, a stunning tabby medium haired lady who is looking for her Forever Home.
Tabitha arrived at the shelter with her kittens, who have now all gone onto find homes. With a beautiful coat and a friendly disposition, Tabitha will make a lovely companion for someone looking for a sweet feline to share their life with.
If you can open your heart and home to our gorgeous mumma, please come and meet her anytime during open hours..
Adoption Fee: $49 Age: 2 Years and 1 Week Breed: Domestic Medium Hair
Sex: Female
Meet Tommy, a friendly and outgoing pup who’s ready to become your new best friend!
Tommy has an infectious zest for life and a sociable nature, making him the perfect companion for anyone who loves being surrounded by loving company.
Tommy has a special place in his heart for people and thrives off human connection. His tail never stops wagging during walks, and his passion for exploring the neighborhood is sure to make every outing an exciting adventure. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a hike, Tommy is always eager to join you.
If you’re searching for a loyal and friendly companion to bring warmth and joy to your household. If your interested in meeting Tommy please come to the Shelter to with your family dog and the children just so we can be sure they are all going to get on well together.
Tommy is already desexed so he can leave the Shelter with you.
Adoption Fee: $99 Age: 1 Year, 3 Months and 3 Weeks
Breed: Irish Wolfhound Cross Large Cross Breed
Sex: Male
Meet Bambi, a sweet and gentle soul who’s ready to find her place in a loving family. This beautiful cat with a sleek and striking appearance came into the shelter as a devoted mother. Now that her babies have found their own homes, it’s time for Bambi to receive the love and care she truly deserves.
Bambi may come off as shy at first, but once she becomes acquainted, her tender nature shines through. Her gentle demeanor makes her ideal for a calm and serene home environment where she can flourish at her own pace. Patience, kindness, and a loving hand are key to helping her blossom into a devoted and loving companion.
Imagine Bambi gracefully lounging in the sunlit corner of your home or nestled beside you, as you wind down for the day. Her presence brings serenity and beauty, making your space feel complete. If you’re ready to open your heart to this elegant feline, Bambi is sure to make your home a happier and more fulfilling place.
Adoption Fee: $99
Age: 1 Year, 1 Month and 1 Week
Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Female
PENRITH locals are lacing up their walking shoes for a good cause this weekend, with the return of WestCare’s much-loved community walk and appeal, Steps of Hope, on Saturday 17th May.
Now in its twelfth edition, the event is back after a brief pause and is set to raise funds for two crucial local services facilitated by WestCare — mental health initiatives and school welfare programs that support vulnerable families across the region.
Andrew Paech, Director of WestCare, describes the event as “a fantastic way for people of all ages to get involved in something that really makes a difference.” He added, “Whether it’s helping someone through a mental health crisis or providing breakfast for a student in need, this fundraiser has real, lasting impact.”
The walk itself follows the scenic ‘Bridge to Bridge’ loop of the Nepean River, with a modest registration fee of $35 for adults and $20 for children aged 5–15. All participants receive a complimentary event T-shirt, a sausage sandwich, and bottled water.
With donations being taxdeductible, community members are encouraged to give generously. The funds raised will benefit ongoing programs such as Penrith Men’s and
Women’s Walk and Talk groups and WestCare’s school and family welfare outreach.
Participants can start and finish their walk anytime between 7:30AM and 12:30PM, beginning at the basecamp located near the mulberry trees off the Jamison Road bend at Tench Reserve.
For more information, to register, or to donate, visit www.StepsOfHope. org.au or contact Andrew and the WestCare team via email at Admin@ WestCare.org.au.
first grade with the Penrith Cricket Club (PCC), playing his last game at the age of 39.
Having begun his coaching career in the 1996/97 season whilst still playing, Michael found the dual roles of player and coach required too heavy a workload, encouraging his retirement as a player to concentrate fully as a coach.
He was appointed Club Coach at Penrith in 2003 and eventually retired from that role in 2021. He subsequently moved to Hawkesbury, joining his son Jake at the club, and coached there for 1 year, before moving on to Fairfield / Liverpool CC in the 22/23 season.
Along the way, Michael also played over 200 games of Rugby Union for the Penrith Emus and was with the
Club when it won promotion to First Division in 1995. He was selected in the Colts team in 1984 and played through to 2001, as a lightweight hooker.
Michael looks back on his 17 years at the Emus with pleasure, having seen future Waratahs and Wallabies players come through the ranks.
He also still coaches the sport at school and coached the NSW CHS team from 2004-2009, recalling many fantastic victories, particularly against Combined Independent Schools (CIS).
He recalls NRL players Damien Cook (St George – Illawarra Dragons) and Tyson Frizell (Newcastle Knights) among the players who came through the CHS system whilst Michael was at the helm.
Michael Wholohan was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies
If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com
Michael was bitten by the marathon bug in Canberra in 2007, succumbing to the new sport and not only running for pleasure but also fund-raising for charities, including the Mark Hughes Foundation. He estimates he has raised in excess of $50,000 for charities during his marathon career.
His best time is 3 hours, 41 minutes, which he feels may remain as his best. He has also competed at times in multiple marathons, in a single year, including an arduous 3 marathons in 3 weeks in 2024, being Manchester (UK), the Shakespeare Marathon (at Stratford-Upon-Avon, UK) and Madrid (Spain).
Michael’s combined work and sport resume is impressive, including: Level 3 Coach Cricket Australia; Bachelor Physical Education Wollongong University 1988; Head coach Penrith CC 2003 -21; NSW Premier Cricket Coach of the Year 2008/09; Member NSW Coaching Panel for 10 years; Coaching Director John Emburey Coaching School (England) 1989 -91; Sydney Grade cricket playing career from 1979/80 through to 2004/2005.
Michael is married to wife Jo (29 years), who is also his personal yet unofficial Physiotherapist, and has two children, Jake and Emma.
Perhaps the most amazing aspect of this long and impressive journey is that
Michael was told by an Orthopaedic Surgeon in 2007 ‘his running days were over’.
Rather than take that advice, Michael spent the next 18 years proving the advice was premature and there were thousands of kilometres just waiting to be completed.
RESTAURANTS, cafes, bars, fast food outlets and more are being invited to help create a diverse, world-class dining experience at Sydney’s only 24-hour international gateway.
Food and beverage operators that completed an extensive registration of interest process may now tender to join Western Sydney International (NancyBird Walton) Airport (WSI) as part of its growing retail and hospitality precinct within the terminal.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the business was excited to hear from hospitality operators that could help deliver a delicious dining experience for the millions of travellers that will soon be visiting the airport when it opens its doors in late 2026.
“We are rapidly approaching opening day, with the completion of major construction works mere weeks away and our focus shifting to asset testing, live airport trials and commercial operations. It’s an incredible and exhilarating time at WSI,” he said.
“Adding to that excitement is our growing retail and hospitality offering, which I’m delighted to say now includes opportunities for hospitality businesses to join Sydney’s 24-hour airport.”
Mr Hickey said the selection of food
and beverage operators would help create a pivotal part of the passenger journey.
“Anyone who’s travelled through an airport would appreciate that once you’ve dropped off your bag and cleared security, you and your loved ones will most often be looking for a place to enjoy food and a drink before you board your flight,” he said.
“We want to create a fantastic experience for our customers so they can relax and enjoy a variety of
NOW that the election is over, the federal battery rebate is on – and we couldn’t be more excited!
In case you missed my last article, as part of their campaign, the re-elected government announced the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, a new rebate to support battery purchases for homes, small businesses, and community facilities.
Launching on July 1, 2025, this rebate will work much like the current solar rebate, offering up-front discounts to make battery storage more accessible. It’s an incredible initiative that will help more households take control of their energy use,
world-class, all-day dining options that enhance their travels while showcasing the best global and Australian food trends.
“WSI will be a wonderful, new airport experience for all of Greater Sydney, but it’s proudly at home in Western Sydney - one of Australia’s most diverse and fastest growing regions, so we’re also keen to hear from businesses who can help highlight our vibrant home city.”
WSI will have more than 20 sites
comprising about 2,300 square metres of leasable space for food and beverage operators to establish their businesses in the airport terminal.
The tender will close in the second half of 2025. Interested parties can contact retail@wsiariport.com.au for more information.
WSI is on track to open for international, domestic and air cargo services in 2026, and will have initial capacity for up to 10 million passengers a year.
reduce reliance on the grid, and save even more on electricity bills.
And for those of us in NSW, there’s an added bonus – eligible applicants can also access the existing Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) battery rebate, meaning you may be able to claim both offers and maximise your savings.
Even better? Eligible batteries are capable of participating in energy trading. This means you may be able to sell stored energy on the wholesale electricity market through a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) or similar platform. So, in addition to storing your power for later, you could be paid for exporting excess energy back to the grid during high-demand periods – further boosting your financial benefit.
While we don’t yet have all the details of the new rebate, what we do know already sounds promising – and we’ll share more with you as information is released in the coming weeks. For now, we can tell you that eligible Australians can expect a rebate of $372 per usable kilowatt-hour (kWh), which means that for a 10kWh battery, your upfront costs could be reduced by $3,720.
It’s a substantial saving, and whether you already have a complete solar and battery system, solar panels alone, or you’re just beginning to explore
your options, there’s no denying it – this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Not sure where you fit in? That’s where we come in.
With this new rebate, plus the existing solar and battery incentives, your home or business can access a top-tier setup at the most affordable price yet – and like any smart investment, flexible finance options are available if you’d like a little help along the way.
Ready to take the next step? Reach out to our team today. We’re here to help – just as we have been for the past 10 years – from 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday on (02) 4760 0809.
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
AT South Creek on the 22nd of January 1859 at Regentville William Watson was indicted for having unlawfully and feloniously killed and stabbed Simon Ryan. The prisoner pleaded not guilty and was undefended. Mr Butler conducted the case for the Crown. It appeared that the prisoner had been one of a party of sawyers residing beyond Penrith. They had been into Penrith and were returning when the crime for which the prisoner stood charged was committed. Bridget Pidge said that on the night of the 11th January at about 11 o’clock the prisoner and several other men came with her husband to their house when she was called up from her bed and made them some tea then they then left but after a few minutes the prisoner and a coloured man named George Williamson returned then she and her husband retired to rest leaving the two men and the deceased Simon Ryan who had been living with them and not long after she heard a noise outside the house and got up and called her husband who went outside and saw the deceased lying on the ground with blood flowing from two wounds. William Pidge the husband of the last witness corroborated the evidence given by his wife and some additional particulars that he found Simon Ryan lying on the ground wounded and dead and he did not see the prisoner then but shortly afterwards when he was taken into custody by sergeant Warren. He found an auger belonging to him lying about twenty-two yards from the body and the handle was out of it and lying at some distance from the auger. He said that the party were working further up the country and had called at his house to get a cup of tea that was prepared by his wife and after the party left again. Bridget Pidge recalled she had not heard the prisoner make any remarks about the auger. George Williamson a coloured man said he was one of the party at Pidge’s and recognized the prisoner as one of the party and they had been drinking and was drunk. When the party left he fell on the grass and the prisoner took him back to Pidge’s hut and he then went to sleep but was roused shortly after and on going outside saw Ryan lying on the grass dead. The prisoner William was his mate and they were both sawyers. Police sergeant at Penrith Charles Warren said that on the night of 22nd January he received information that a man named Ryan had been stabbed and was lying dead and before arriving at the place where the dead body was he met the prisoner who told him that he was the man who had stabbed Ryan and said to him that the deceased was about to strike him with an auger and in his passion he stabbed him and on searching the prisoner at the watch-house a clasp knife dropped on the ground as though it had been between his belt and trousers. He picked it up and found it was covered with blood. Dr Haylock the duly qualified medical practitioner of Penrith said that on being called he examined the body of the deceased that he found covered with a sheet and lying about twenty yards from the Pidge’s hut and on examination he found two wounds, one on the right side that had penetrated through the heart and the other was not so deep and might not have proved fatal. The wounds might have been caused by
the knife produced and he saw the prisoner who seemed very excited and he expressed great sorrow for the rash act when he found that Ryan was dead. The prisoner in reply to his Honor stated that after Mr and Mrs Pidge had retired some words were spoken between the deceased and himself about as to who was the best saw-keeper and the deceased got excited and pushed him out of the door. He then came out with an auger (the handle of which he had beaten out against a block of wood) and he was in the act of striking him when the (prisoner) defended himself against the attack with one hand and stabbed the deceased with the other. Great sorrow was evinced by the prisoner in the recital of this statement. His Honor in summing up said it was a most distressing case. There appeared no doubt but that the crime was unpremeditated and the subsequent conduct of the prisoner in giving himself up to the Constable showed no wish to evade the punishment due to such a crime. From the evidence it appeared they had been drinking but that could not be pleaded as an excuse or there would be no safety for life. The jury then retired and after a few minutes’ consultation returned with a verdict of guilty but with a strong recommendation to mercy and sentenced to six weeks hard labour in Parramatta gaol. The turnkey in charge of the prisoner since his arrest was called in and spoke of the quiet orderly conduct the prisoner had maintained since he had been in his custody. His Honor said he would defer passing sentence until he heard the medical testimony on the state of the prisoner’s mind and later remanded him accordingly as verdict guilty of LARCENY.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald – 10th February, 1859
NOW TEN YEARS STRONG, Sydney’s Royale With Cheese – Ultimate 90s Rock Show, AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER 90s ROCK SHOW hits Penrith Panthers
Sunday 8th June
Royale with Cheese is AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER 90s ROCK SHOW, playing all 90s rock and pop covers – from Seattle-sound to Grunge to Britpop and all the best Oz Rock from the 90s. Royale With Cheese is not just a covers band – it’s a rollicking 90s party reviving one of the greatest and most influential decades in rock music.
From Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden to Radiohead, Blur and Oasis to Silverchair, You Am I and Screaming Jets to Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Green Day and Blink 182, Royale with Cheese magically weaves all these 90s sounds into a night that’ll have you feeling nostalgic for the last great decade of rock music!
Come as you are to smash pumpkins and RAGE AGAINST THE 90s!
“Fellow fans of 90s grunge and pub rock, Royale With Cheese is the best live band around, get yourself to the Panthers gig!!” NN Editor Kerrie Davies said.
“100% you will thank me”
Get your tix TODAY!
Sunday 08 Jun 2025, 7:30pm, 8:00 PM, EVAN Theatre Panthers
HANDS will be clapping and toes tapping with Dorothy’s mega mix of dance hits!
Get ready to Romp-Bomp-A-Stomp with everyone’s favourite Dinosaur in this extravaganza show stopping songs, including all The Wiggles greatest hits like Rock-A-Bye Your Bear, Hot Potato & Do the Propeller!
The fun doesn’t stop there! Joined on stage by all her Wiggly friends you’ll be ‘Shaking your Hips’ with Wags the Dog, ‘Move your Arms’ like Henry the Octopus and singing ‘Quack, Quack’ with Captain Feathersword!
Be quick as tickets will sell like… Hot Potatoes!
Thursday 26 Jun 2025, 9:30am, 10:00am, EVAN Theatre
Dear Food Lovers,
My name is Dharma, and I’m excited to introduce myself to this wonderful community.
I’m now operating DAD’s Indian Restaurant (Dharma’s Amritsari Dhaba), located at the former Tamilini premises – 12 Castlereagh Street, Penrith, right opposite Penrith RSL.
I truly understand the emotional connection many of you had with Tamilini, and I deeply respect and appreciate the support you gave to it over the years. I humbly request the same warmth and encouragement as I begin this new journey with you.
We’ve refreshed the space while preserving the cherished memories many of you hold dear. More positive changes and fresh vibes are on the way! My goal is to create a place that feels like your own – where your taste buds are always satisfied and your feedback is always welcome.
We’re now open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, and we’d love for you to drop by, try our food, and share your thoughts. Your feedback will help us continuously improve and bring you the best possible flavors.
Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration or a private event, our venue is ready to host you. We offer a rich and diverse menu – from beloved Indian street food to North Indian classics and spicy South Indian delights. Visit our menu at dadpenrith.com.au, which will take you straight to Dharma’s Amritsari Dhaba.
The initials of the restaurant – DAD – hold a special meaning for many, and I hope that name brings a sense of warmth and familiarity to all who walk through our doors. Looking forward to serving you and becoming a part of your food journey.
Warm regards, Dharma - Dharma’s Amritsari Dhaba – DAD’s Indian Restaurant
The worst things you can do to your phone –and you are probably already doing most of them!
WE take our phones everywhere, from bed to the bathroom, the beach to the boardroom. But according to Vidit Sehgal, founder and CEO of V4 IT, Australia’s fastest-growing onsite tech service, we’re loving our phones to death… quite literally.
“People baby their pets and pamper their plants, but treat their phones like they’re indestructible,” laughed Sehgal.
“The truth is, our daily habits are slowly frying, clogging, draining and glitching our devices and most people don’t even realise it.”
So, if you’ve ever wondered why your phone is getting slower, dying faster, or just acting weird, you might be guilty of one (or all) of some really bad tech crimes.
Sehgal explained that if people changed the way they treat their phone, it probably would last longer and not be prone to glitches or hacking.
Pressing it against your face (a lot)
“Makeup, hairspray, sweat, moisturiser hair gel - it’s like a beauty salon assault on your phone every time you press it to your cheek,” Sehgal said.
“It clogs your speaker mesh, fogs up your front camera, and makes Face ID throw a tantrum.
“Try using speaker mode or earbuds and give your phone a proper clean daily. It’s not a crime scene, but it might look like one.”
Leaving it to bake in the sun “Phones left on dashboards, café tables, benches or windowsills in full sun might as well be on a barbecue,” Sehgal said.
“Overheating can fry your battery, throttle your processor and make your phone shut down to protect itself,” he said.
“It’s not a tanning machine, keep it in the shade.”
Treating it like a footy
“Throwing your phone onto the couch, across the bed, on to the bench or into your bag like a brick?
That carefree toss is costing you,” Sehgal said.
“Just because it bounced once doesn’t mean it’ll bounce next time. All those little
knocks and landings can loosen internal components, damage your charging port or shatter your screen. It’s a phone, not a boomerang.
“And don’t be lulled into a false sense of security just because you spent a fortune on a case that is apparently made of military grade material. Nothing will save your phone if you continually bounce it around.”
Running your battery down to zero - over and over
“Some people think letting their phone hit zero percent is good for it. It’s not. That’s battery abuse,” Sehgal said.
“Aim to stay between 20 percent and 80 percent to keep your battery healthy and happy.”
Ignoring software update
“That “Remind me later” button might feel convenient, but it’s a bad habit,” Sehgal said.
“Skipping updates leaves your phone open to viruses, bugs and serious performance problems.
Updates are like your phone’s immune system, keep it strong.”
Using bargain bin charger
“That $5 cable you found at the servo? It could cost you a $1,000 phone. Cheap
chargers can short- circuit your phone, damage your battery or even spark a fire,” Sehgal said.
“Only use certified chargers from trusted brands.”
Sleeping with your phone under your pillow
“It’s warm, it’s snuggly and it’s a terrible idea. Your phone needs ventilation, especially while charging,” Sehgal said.
“Charging it under your pillow increases fire risk and shortens battery life. Give it space to breathe.”
Never backing it up
“You’ll cry harder over lost baby photos than a cracked screen,” Sehgal said.
“Back up your data, regularly. It’s the cheapest insurance you’ll ever have.”
Treat your phone like the expensive, fragile, hard-working tech companion it is. A little extra care today could save you a lot of money and stress tomorrow.
“At V4 IT, we see the damage every day and most of it’s preventable,” Sehgal said.
“Your phone’s not a toy. If you wouldn’t do it to your laptop, don’t do it to your phone.”
About V4 IT
V4 IT, headquartered in Melbourne, is a leading provider of home and business IT support services in Australia. Since its inception in May 2022, V4 IT has rapidly expanded its footprint, now covering over 1,500 postcodes across the country. The company’s mission is to become Australia’s most trusted home IT service provider by delivering reliable and efficient online and onsite support to a growing customer base.
V4 IT specialises in:
• Home and business IT support: Comprehensive solutions tailored to meet individual and small business needs.
• Online and onsite support services: Flexible service delivery, ensuring convenience and efficiency.
• Nationwide coverage: Over 100 expert technicians providing assistance across more than 1,500 postcodes.
Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist.
Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor. We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE board of the Seven Hills RSL club has written to all golf members of Penrith GC, outlining the current discussions between itself, the Australian Turf Club (ATC) and the State Government in regard to the potential sale of the Penrith golf course.
The board writes: ‘As part of its proposal to transition racing and training facilities from Rosehill Gardens to alternative venues, the ATC and the NSW Government have identified Penrith golf course as a site that has the potential to accommodate a new racecourse and associated amenities. The two bodies then approached the Board of Directors of Seven Hills RSL Club to discuss the viability of a potential purchase of the land.
The Board writes, as a courtesy, to advise Penrith golf members that the Seven Hills RSL Club has entered a preliminary exploratory discussion only, with the ATC, about a potential sale of our land for future racing infrastructure, which includes a new state of the art racetrack, training facilities, hospitality and lifestyle venue.
The ATC is currently running a dual track process to further its plans for racing in NSW:
1. It is pursuing an Unsolicited Proposal process with the NSW Government that proposes the sale of Rosehill Gardens for conversion into a residential community of 25,000 new homes serviced by a new metro station.
2. It is hosting an Extraordinary General Meeting on 27 May 2025, where its members will determine if they support the proposal to sell Rosehill Gardens and allocate the proceeds to new and upgraded racing facilities elsewhere in Greater Sydney.
It is important to note that no agreement for the sale of our land in the future could occur, unless both of these processes are successful.
It is also important to note that our Club’s approach to any discussions about the sale of our land must have a significant net benefit to all our members.
In short, this would include the following outcomes:
• The sale would only go ahead if we can secure a new golf course of equal or better standard than Penrith golf course, in the Penrith area, for current and future Golf Members.
• The offer for purchase of the Penrith golf course would have to be of a significant financial benefit to all our members.
• Current members would be afforded certain reciprocal rights (ATC membership, use of ancillary facilities etc) at any future facilities developed on our land by the ATC.
• The ATC would have to
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Master Pennant golf competition tees off in NSW on May 18, with 11 local clubs entered this season, led by Dunheved (Section 1), Penrith (Section 3), Stonecutters Ridge (Section 3) and Twin Creeks (Section 4), all competing in Division 1.
Penrith and Twin Creeks both won promotion to Division 1 this season after having contested the 2024 Division 2 Final, which Twin Creeks won 5-3.
Springwood (Section 2) and Lynwood (Section 4) are both in Division 2, Fox Hills (Section 1), Richmond (Section 2), Glenmore Heritage Valley (Section 3), Wallacia (Section 3) and Leonay (Section 4) are all in Division 3.
Fox Hills won promotion to Division 3 after contesting the Division 4 Final in 2024, which they lost 5-3 to Massey Park.
Local clubs hosting for Round 1 are Stonecutters Ridge vs Asquith (11:15am), Springwood vs North Ryde (11:00am), Lynwood vs The Coast (11:30am), Richmond vs Massey Park (11:00am), Glenmore Heritage Valley vs Antill Park (10:16am) and Leonay vs Roseville (11:00am).
demonstrate the benefits of the move to the City of Penrith and what the future may look like. This would include the benefits such as employment, tourist, entertainment etc.
• Should the above occur and we agree on a sale, we would not have to vacate Penrith Golf Course until 1st January 2030.
Benefits to Members if the sale proceeds:
• Penrith Golf Membership Fees would not increase for a period of at least 10 years (after moving to the new course) for all current members as at 10th May 2025.
• Seven Hills RSL Group would be in a position to provide all it’s members with facilities at reasonable prices to help them with the current cost of living crisis (food, beverages, membership etc).
• Continue to reinvest in all our members facilities i.e. buildings, golf courses, bowling greens, etc.
• It would also allow the Board
to future proof the Club against any Government regulatory changes, i.e. gaming machines, increased taxes on gaming, smoking, etc.
• We would continue to own and operate Penrith Clubhouse and car park after the sale of the Golf Course. Members, as part of the Board’s responsibilities regarding Corporate Governance, it must investigate opportunities presented to them that are of potential benefit to all its Members, in both the short term and the long term, to ensure the viability of the organisation. This is the reason we are engaged in these discussions, and we hope you, the Member, understand that we are only entering into these discussions as it is being driven by the NSW Government’s vision to create more housing in Sydney.
The Board asks the Members to understand that these discussions are at a preliminary stage only and many pieces would need to fall into place before any future sale may occur.
The Panthers and Cowboys went blow-for-blow over 90 minutes in a gruelling draw in Townsville.
BY PANTHERS MEDIA
BLAIZE Talagi had a hand in all five Panthers tries, scoring one and assisting four in a standout display.
Luke Garner impressed at centre once again, as he played off Talagi to cross for a first-half double.
Brian To’o topped the run metres chart in his return from injury, while Mitch Kenny and Isaah Yeo played the full 90 minutes through the middle of the park.
TOP TACKLERS
Mitch Kenny: 46
Isaah Yeo: 38 (0 missed)
Lindsay Smith: 38
Isaiah Papali’i: 34
Liam Martin: 32
Liam Henry: 30
Moses Leota: 24 (0 missed)
Nathan Cleary: 23
Blaize Talagi: 20
Brian To’o: 196m (18 runs)
Dylan Edwards: 190m (23 runs)
Isaah Yeo: 172m (23 runs)
Moses Leota: 159m (18 runs)
Paul Alamoti: 150m (17 runs)
Liam Henry: 150m (18 runs)
Isaiah Papali’i: 141m (19 runs)
Luke Garner: 139m (14 runs)
Liam Martin: 131m (16 runs)
Lindsay Smith: 111m (14 runs)
POST-CONTACT METRES
Moses Leota: 72m
Liam Henry: 67m
Brian To’o: 65m
Dylan Edwards: 64m
Isaah Yeo: 62m
Paul Alamoti: 55m
Liam Martin: 50m
Luke Garner: 49m
Isaiah Papali’i: 49m
MOST TACKLE BREAKS
Izack Tago: 5
Liam Martin: 5
Luke Garner: 4
Brian To’o: 4
Nathan Cleary: 4
Moses Leota: 4
Isaah Yeo: 4
Liam Henry: 4
Sticky’s not paying rent
CANBERRA Raiders coach Ricky Stuart seems to be living in Canterbury Bulldogs utility Jaeman Salmon’s head for the last three years and has not paid a cent in rent. Stuart infamously called Salmon a “weak gutted dog” in a press conference when Salmon was at the Panthers in 2022, it followed on from some history between the two while Salmon was coming through the grades at Cronulla.
The next chapter played out on the weekend with Salmon referencing the incident and repeating the phrase during a try celebration as the Bulldogs rolled through the Raiders. Salmon previously did something similar after scoring a try in Penrith colours against the Raiders. Of course, the footy public have latched on to what has now become part of the NRL vernacular, an insult, some would even call it banter amongst the boiz. However, the reaction from Salmon suggests it cut him to the core and he’s filthy about it - even after all this time, and who are we to tell him how he should react or move past it? The best way to reduce a fire is to take the oxygen out of it. Stop talking about it publicly, we will forget about it and move on like goldfish. Stuart on the other hand told the post-game press conference he couldn’t care less and essentially has bigger fish to fry this season. See what I did there?
Beat the bye round blues
WELL, it’s Penrith’s first bye for the 2025 season and we all know what that means......Well nothing really, just that there’s no footy on.
But it comes at a good time from a fan’s perspective because the great lord above knows it’s been a challenging first quarter of the season. From the greatly discussed Vegas opening game through to the up and down performances, it’s been a whirlwind.
The challenge is looking at the premiership table and doing the math on how many wins will climb the Panthers back into the top eight?
Although it only seems to be two or three wins away, the task is made more difficult with unexpected and unfavorable results shunting the lower placed team around each week. I mean the Newcastle Knights led the Gold Coast Titans by the length of the straight at halftime last week before their armour was reduced to nothing more than scrap metal in the second half.
Keeping it simple, you’ve just got to win. If you are looking for something to do this bye round, can I suggest jumping on Youtube and having a look at the array of rugby league and sport videos. Maybe don’t search “blue shirt trainer squirts on balls” . Seeya later.
LINE BREAKS
Luke Garner: 1
Brian To’o: 1
Isaiah Papali’i: 1
Isaiah Papali’i: 1 (5’)
Luke Garner: 2 (21’, 27’)
Thomas Jenkins: 1 (52’)
Blaize Talagi: 1 (64’)
TRY ASSISTS
Blaize Talagi: 4
Nathan Cleary: 5/5
This week’s businessperson in our “getting to know” segment is one of the real quiet achievers in our community -
I met him over 20 years ago and he continues to amaze me with his acts of generosity. He has been an avid sponsor of the Panthers, plus he supports lots of local charities. You can also catch him in my gym most arvos at 5pm. Let’s get to know Thommo a little bit more….
1. How long have you had the Hertz dealership for? I’ve been involved in the car rental industry with hertz for 27 years
2. Favourite Song? So many! I was a bit of a grunge fan in the early 90s so lots of Pearl Jam. Better Man always comes out when my mates are over my house.
3. Favourite ground to watch sport? At the game without a doubt, I’ve been fortunate to see lots of live sport all around the world. You cannot capture the true atmosphere of the game without being there. If I can’t be there, watching with my wife and kids is on my back deck is the next best thing.
4. Favourite Movie? Dirty Harry and Magnum Force - massive Clint Eastwood fan.
5. If not Hertz boss what would you be doing? I’d definitely be involved in some sort of business administration. I love the challenge of a working balance sheet and the day-to-day navigation of the ever-changing business world.
6. Favourite TV Series? Seinfeld without doubt, although it would never be allowed on in prime time these days with its incorrectness.
7. What 3 famous people would you love to have a night out with? Being an 80s and 90s kid, I’d pick three people from that era just to see them for what they are now; Michael Jordan, Brandy Alexander and Pamela Anderson.
8. Favourite band? Is there such a thing as a band these days? Everything is solo or got a DJ mixer behind it. If I could pick a band that is still around today that I like it would be the Foo fighters.
9. Favourite sport and athlete? I grew up a Panthers Tragic and Greg Alexander was my idol. In my eyes he could do anything on his day.
10. Death row meal? Definitely my wife Simonne’s lamb roast, if I was on death row and she had stuck around to say goodbye I’d definitely hit her up for one of those.
WITH MARK GEYER
IT has been one hell of a week in rugby league land. Besides all the on-field wizardry from teams coming back from insurmountable odds, another comeback for the ages also took place.
The Perth Bears were announced as the 18th team in the NRL! In what has seemed like an age to get this franchise over the line, it was finally ticked off by both the West Australian government as well as the Australian Rugby League commission.
They will enter the competition in 2027, with the 19th franchise the PNG consortium coming into the NRL a year later. The 20th team, most likely another QLD based team or another team playing out of New Zealand South Island, making it a 20 team comp by around 2030!
How good!
Now, I have firsthand intel about a team playing out of Western Australia because I played for the Western Reds for the 1995, 1996, and 1997 seasons. Back then not a lot was known about WA rugby league other than they would be entering the ARL competition with three other franchises, the North Queensland Cowboys, the NZ Warriors, and the South Queensland Crushers.
I personally signed on with the Reds whilst playing for Balmain in the 1993 season.
The late great Peter Mullholland,
who was to be the Western reds inaugural coach came calling whilst I was wallowing in a couple of years in the Rugby League wilderness.
He promised a competitive team, a chance to be a trailblazer, and the number one selling point “you will have guaranteed anonymity in Perth” Got me!
My wife Meags and I left for Perth in October of 1994, 8 months pregnant with our first son Logan. It was quickly realised upon landing in Perth and driving out of the airport on our way to our new lodgings in South Perth that the anonymity part of ‘Skulls” spiel may not have been as accurate as the great man first touted. For as we drove out of the exit gate at the airport there was a gigantic billboard of me, arms crossed, shirt off, with a snarl telling Western Australians “I’Im coming for ya Perth!” ha ha. I dont even remember posing for that particular photo.
But we quickly settled, had our first
child, and realised that most of the other imports were there for the same reason as me, for a second chance!
I’ll always cherish my time in Perth and look back on it lovingly. It was something special being a pioneer in an AFL dominated state, but we quickly learnt to co-exist with the West Coast Eagles and the Freemantle Dockers.
In fact, Pete Mullholland encouraged us to meet, mingle, and hang out with our AFL contemporaries. An astute move from Skull, for as we trained with both teams we began to have a better understanding of each other’s codes.
It was also good for our street credit to have both coaches Mick Malthouse (Eagle) and Gerard Neesham (Dockers) sitting in the stands for our inaugural game at the WACA in front of 25,000 fans against the Dragons. Which we won convincingly. The Reds had arrived.
Unfortunately almost as soon as we
arrived so did a break away league called Super League. Suffice to say other than the enormous contracts everyone was signing, the game itself was on its knees.
Things have changed.
This time there is no Super League breakaway to get in the road. And both the WA government and the NRL commission are fans, so are most of the Rugby League fraternity.
I’ve got no doubt a team in Western Australia will be competitive, I’ve also got no doubt, and some free advice to any player thinking about the move? Do it! You will have the time of your footy life.
Its a great time to be a player in the NRL, it is just about to become even more exciting….
See you at the game….
Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes.
