PERSONAL DURESS
LOCATION DEVICE
Alert loved ones or co-workers with app notifications including map locations.
Receive immediate operator contact during a situation with 24/7 monitoring.
SOS emergency
Location tagging
Fall detection
24/7 monitoring
Receives operator calls
4G connection
Rechargeable
GPS location
IP67 water resistant
NDIS approval pending
BY
From habit to healing
KAREN Owens, a proud Gamilaroi woman, knew it was time to quit smoking—for herself and her family—after her heart failed not once, but twice.
“That was the wake-up call. I looked at my grandkids and thought, ‘I want to be around to see them grow up.’ That’s what finally pushed me to quit.”
She began her smoke-free journey in November 2023 with the help of the dedicated staff from NBMLHD and support from loved ones has helped her push through.
“It’s a battle every day. I still want a cigarette every single day. Watching TV, after dinner—it’s constant. But I tell myself, ‘You’ve come this far. Don’t blow it now.’”
For Karen, it’s not just about quitting. It’s about reclaiming power over her life.
“I still keep a pack in my drawer,” she says. “It’s my way of saying, ‘I could, but I choose not to.’ That’s strength.”
Karen’s story is a reminder—quitting is a journey, and support is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with smoking or vaping, talk to your GP or health service. Young people can download PAVE, a free app to help quit vaping. Visit health.nsw.gov.au/vaping or contact the Quitline on 13 7848. Every step matters.
Read the full story: www.nsw.gov.au/ departments-and-agencies/nbmlhd/news/ stories/from-habit-to-healing-karens-story-ofquitting-for-a-purpose
95B STATION ST, PENRITH
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Greg Davies 0419 177 259
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Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202
Greg Yanda 0425 232 043
Stacey Broomhead 0420 319 893
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Winter solstice
PENRITH City Council is excited to host Winter Solstice this June long weekend at City Park, Penrith!
Preparations for the event are well underway. There will be changed traffic conditions during the event times to ensure public and pedestrian safety at the event. Here’s the details: Winter Solstice
• Friday 6 June to Monday 9 June
• 4pm to 9pm (Fri-Sun) 10am to 3pm (Mon)
• Ice Skating (booking required): 12pm to 9pm (Fri-Sun) 9am to 4pm (Mon)
• City Park, Penrith
• Find out more at penrith.city/events
To book your ice staking tickets, visit www.penrithwintersolstice.starsonice. com.au/tickets/
Sunday 13th July 2025, 2pm
Penrith Regional Gallery
86 River Road, Emu Plains
Cost: $35 Includes afternoon tea
Bookings and payment essential before Sunday 6th July.
Pay by cash or credit card
Ph 4735 1100 10am-3:30pm weekdays only or online www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au
Optional dressing 1940s style.
1948 Pontiac available for pre show photographs between 1pm and 2pm.
From Rationing to a new freedom in how life was lived and what was worn.
No matter what the circumstances fashion is everything. You can ration clothes but you cannot ration fashion.
A Cavalcade presentation is a themed talk and includes examples from the collection with commentary. Items are carried amongst the audience, allowing a closer look at pieces from the collection.
The Cavalcade of History and Fashion is an organisation with a collection of original historic gowns and accessories with provenance, dating from the 1700s, preserving Australia’s social and fashion history. www.thecavalcade.org
Photos: Noel Rowsell
Welcome Brad Ceely
NEPEAN Hospital has welcomed Brad Ceely as its new General Manager, marking an exciting new chapter for Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District.
Brad joins the District after recently serving as General Manager for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals. A registered nurse with over 30 years’ experience, Brad began his career in paediatrics and went on to become NSW’s first nurse practitioner in paediatric intensive care.
“What drew me to Nepean Hospital is its unique position within the health system,” says Brad.
“It’s a leading teaching hospital, but also closely connected to rural facilities like Lithgow Hospital and Portland Multi-Purpose Service. That combination creates a real opportunity to strengthen care across the whole region and respond to the needs of a diverse community.”
Read the full story: https://shorturl.at/979Tn
Brad Ceely, General Manager of Nepean Hospital.
World No Tobacco Day targets smoking and vaping
BY KERRIE DAVIES
THE number of people in NSW who smoke cigarettes has fallen to its lowest level on record according to new data published by NSW Health this World No Tobacco Day.
The 2024 Population Health Survey showed around only one in 10 adults (11 per cent) smoked daily or occasionally, a decline from 14 per cent in 2015.
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death and the second highest contributor to the burden of disease in Australia. This World No Tobacco Day, NSW Health is encouraging people to quit smoking and vaping to improve their health and quality of life.
Data from Cancer Institute NSW released today shows people in NSW are seeking support to quit smoking and vaping, with more than 27,000 calls supported by telephone information and counselling service Quitline in the past 12 months. More than 15,000 of these calls related to smoking and 5,000 calls were about vaping.
While smoking rates have declined, rates of vaping remain high, with people aged 16-24 years having the highest rate of vaping of any age group (20 per cent). Although there was a rapid increase in rates among this age group from 2018 to 2023, vaping rates have now started to stabilise.
All people who vape are exposed to chemicals and toxins which have the potential to cause harm to health. Some of these chemicals have been shown to cause cancer, heart disease and lung damage. Vaping may cause throat irritation, cough, breathlessness, dizziness, headaches and nausea.
In young people, regular use of nicotine vapes can cause changes to brain development, worsen stress and increase symptoms of depression and anxiety. There is also recent evidence that young people aged 12-17 who vape are almost five times as likely to go on to smoke.
The Minns Labor Government is undertaking a comprehensive program of work to reduce rates of vaping, including cracking down on the supply and availability of vapes, educational campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of vaping, and supports to help people kick the habit.
In February this year, NSW launched the Pave app to support people on their quit journey. The app – which has been downloaded by 5000 users to date - provides users with helpful tips, motivation, tracking tools, distractions for when cravings hit, as well as activities and information to navigate common barriers to quitting vaping.
If you need support to quit smoking or vaping talk to your GP or call the NSW Quitline on 13 7848. Quitline is a free and confidential telephone counselling service that provides customised assistance to help you quit. Aboriginal counsellors are available, providing culturally sensitive and customised support.
The iCanQuit website also provides information about smoking and vaping and resources and support to quit.
“No matter how long you have been smoking, quitting is one of the most effective things you can do to live a longer, happier and healthier life,” said Minister for Health, Ryan Park.
“While it is pleasing to see more people taking the step towards being smoke free, I remain concerned that rates of vaping are still high.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to the stem the tide of this public health challenge. We don’t want to see the years of strong
progress in tobacco control and smoking reduction undone.”
NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant congratulated people who have taken the step towards a healthier life by quitting smoking.
“I acknowledge it’s not always easy, but I encourage people who smoke to think about quitting both for themselves and for their loved ones this World No Tobacco Day,” Dr Chant said.
“While the data released today shows a concerning number of young people vaping, we are cautiously optimistic that we are seeing a stabilisation of the rates.
NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of Cancer Institute NSW Professor Tracey O’Brien AM said smoking is a leading cause of disease and premature death in NSW.
“While we’ve seen positive change with a decrease in tobacco smoking, we cannot become complacent about the harms of smoking and now vaping,” the Professor said.
“Smoking and vaping are among the worst things you can do for your health. It’s important that people avoid taking up these habits or seek help to quit.”
“While quitting can be hard, with support like the app and telephone service, taking that first step can be life changing.”
Stronger laws to stop puppy farms and improve animal welfare introduced
DOG breeders across NSW can now apply for exemptions to new puppy farming regulations to ensure they satisfy changes coming into effect on 1 December 2025.
Under the NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Puppy Farming) Act 2024, breeders can have no more than 20 female adult dogs, which are not desexed and older than six months, on any premise.
Only dog breeders who had more than 20 female adult dogs when the maximum cap became law on 21 November 2024 can apply for a 10-year exemption from this limit until 1 December 2035.
Breeders who had more than 50 female adult dogs (and who are granted an exemption) are required to bring the number down to 50 or below by 1 December 2026. If a breeder is refused a 10-year exemption, they must comply with the maximum cap of 20 female adult dogs from 1 December 2025. Applications for an exemption can be made to the Office of Local Government (OLG) for a $550 fee, giving dog breeders time to manage and appropriately scale down their businesses to comply with the Puppy Farming Act. This will
avoid potential adverse animal welfare outcomes and negative impacts on pounds and rehoming organisations.
Exemption applications will be open until Sunday 13 July 2025 on the OLG website. https://www. petregistry.olg.nsw.gov.au/temporary-exemptionapplication
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is working with the OLG to ensure breeders, potential breeders, occupiers of dog premises and the community understand the new requirements.
DPIRD Executive Director Strategy and Regulatory Policy, Peter Goth, said the robust changes ensure animal welfare standards are upheld.
“This legislation ensures transparency, accountability and appropriate animal welfare standards in all dog breeding operations across NSW.
“These changes will fortify and support animal welfare within the industry and allow people to choose puppies from ethical breeders who promote responsible dog breeding.
“The majority of the changes come into effect
from 1 December 2025, allowing time for breeders, dog owners and those considering acquiring a puppy to review what is required.”
Changes to address key risks to animal health and welfare related to dog breeding practices that commence from 1 December 2025 include:
All dog breeders must obtain a mandatory Breeder Identification Number through the NSW Pet Registry and include this number along with the microchip number of the dogs they are advertising for sale or giving away, to improve transparency and ensure people purchasing a new puppy know where their dog is coming from.
New lifetime breeding limits for female dogs with a maximum of five litters in total or up to three caesarean litters with veterinarian approval, whichever occurs first.
One staff carer for every 20 adult dogs, to ensure dogs receive a minimum standard of care.
A maximum penalty for individuals of $110,000, two years imprisonment or both, and $550,000 for organisations for breaches of these requirements.
For further information on the reforms, including factsheets, visit the DPIRD website.
First piece of Sydney’s new 24-hour airport puzzle complete
CONSTRUCTION of the first major piece of Sydney’s 24hour airport is complete, with Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport’s (WSI) runway and other key air side facilities officially finalised as the countdown to opening continues.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said this significant step demonstrated the rapid rate of progress as major construction continues to wrap-up to make way for testing and live trials across the airport precinct.
“The work to build our runway and supporting air side facilities has been years in the making – during which workers have literally moved mountains to create a modern, technology-enabled airfield that will soon welcome planes and passengers,” he said.
“Our runway will be equipped with modern technology and our rapid exit taxiways mean WSI’s average taxiing time will be around five minutes, significantly shorter compared to other airports around the world,
which will get people home and away faster.”
Mr Hickey said there have been millions of work hours put into this critical piece of WSI’s infrastructure, with thousands of workers contributing toward the extensive construction project since the bulk earthworks contract was awarded in 2019.
“The site has been transformed to build our 3.7km runway, equipped with approximately 3,000 aeronautical ground lights and 348 high intensity approach lights, which will cater for up to 10 million annual passengers from day one of operations next year,” he said.
“Part of our runway certification also involved a Piper PA-30 Twin Engine Comanche aircraft successfully completing multiple take offs and landings on our runway in October last year, to ensure the lighting and technology systems were operating effectively.”
The CPB Contractors/ACCIONA Joint Venture led works on the Air side Civil and Pavement Works package
(ACP), which was also overseen by WSI’s delivery partner, Bechtel.
Aside from WSI’s runway and lighting, the ACP package also involved the design and construction of the taxiway pavements, aircraft pavement markings, air side roads, surface water drainage, air side security fence and landscaping.
CPB Contractors Project Director Christian Byrne said the CPB Contractors/ACCIONA Joint Venture team is very proud to have been a part of this transformational project.
“Successful delivery of the ACP project required millions of tonnes of high quality, high strength, quarry materials to be sourced and imported into the site, then processed and placed in the aircraft pavement areas, to construct the aviation pavements
to strict specifications, which took an enormous effort from a large team,” he said.
“The aircraft pavements were constructed with an excellent team culture and commitment to working safely, and we developed and delivered an Australian-first paving methodology of “true-slip forming” the concrete aircraft pavements –improving productivity and safety as well.”
WSI is on track to open for domestic, international and cargo services in late 2026. The airport is built for growth, with plans in place that will eventually see WSI become Sydney’s biggest international airport, handling more than 80 million annual passengers, which is akin to London’s Heathrow airport today.
WSU and Healthy Male urge men to see their GP this Men’s Health Week
THIS Men’s Health Week, 9–15 June, Western Sydney University and Healthy Male have joined forces to encourage the men in our lives to take a proactive approach to their wellbeing with one clear message: See Your GP.
With research showing that about two-thirds of Australian men delay seeing a doctor when something doesn’t feel right, the campaign aims to make regular visits to the doctor a normal part of men’s lives – not something to avoid.
Simon von Saldern, CEO of Healthy Male, said that this Men’s Health Week is an opportunity to remind men that small steps, like booking a doctor’s appointment, can have a big impact on their health.
“The goal is to help men catch health problems early and feel more confident getting the care they need,” said Mr von Saldern.
“We’re encouraging men to take a bit of time and effort to see a GP – it’s often easier than people think, and it’s certainly less difficult than managing a health issue that’s been left too long.”
Associate Professor Emma George, Director of the Centre for Male Health at Western Sydney University, emphasised the importance of men developing a wrelationship with a regular GP.
“A regular GP knows your health and medical history, understands your health goals, and can provide guidance on lifestyle behaviours and preventive care, like age-appropriate health checks,” said Associate Professor George.
A key part of this year’s campaign is a pilot health check program, to be rolled out in workplaces,
sporting organisations and community hubs, in collaboration with SiSU Health.
“By reaching men where they live, work, play and connect – we can build healthier communities, one conversation at a time,” Associate Professor George added.
Now in its second year, the collaboration between the Centre for Male Health and Healthy Male continues to grow, bringing together partners from government, academia, sport and the healthcare sector.
These partners include the Australian Fatherhood Research Consortium, Australian Men’s Health Forum, Australian Men’s Shed Association, Centre for Gender Equity in Health and Medicine, Dads Group, Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Fellow Psychology, Life!, MATES
in Construction, Survivors and Mates Support Network, Sher Foundation, Sydney Water, The Men’s Table, The George Institute, The Man Cave, Top Blokes Foundation, and Musculoskeletal Health Australia.
Throughout the week, thousands of Australians are expected to take part in community events, workplace initiatives and online campaigns during the week – all aimed at supporting men’s health and wellbeing.
Men’s Health Week is a global initiative that takes place every June and focuses on all the factors contributing to men’s wellbeing. Throughout the week, leading experts in the men’s health space highlight the challenges men face in prioritising their health and how both individuals and healthcare systems can overcome them.
Healthy Male is a national organisation, providing information for men’s health, collaborating with Australia’s leading researchers, specialists, clinicians and educators to develop information that fills the gaps in men’s health.
The Centre for Male Health within Western Sydney University brings together researchers from a diverse range of disciplines to improve the health and well-being of men and boys. It works with community and government organisations across Australia to develop networks and partnerships in support of men’s health.
For more information, or to access campaign resources, visit the webpage seeyourgp.org.au
Safer road crossings for students at Emu Plains
TRANSPORT for NSW has been working with Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School to improve road safety for those attending school.
In response to feedback from the school and local community, Transport will upgrade two locations along the Great Western Highway to make the crossing points easier and safer with improved visibility for students and road users.
The two locations are:
• the intersection with Old Bathurst Road, and
• the pedestrian crossing in front of Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School.
Safety work at the Old Bathurst Road intersection includes removing three trees to improve motorist visibility at the crossing and enhance pedestrian safety.
Transport will also upgrade the existing kerb ramps to improve accessibility for pedestrians with mobility issues and parents with prams, as well as upgrade the traffic light poles and reposition the pedestrian crossings.
For the pedestrian crossing in front of Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School, work will include upgrading the zebra crossing and median islands to allow greater pedestrian numbers. Transport will also
upgrade the existing kerb ramps, install new drainage and widen the bus bay on the westbound side of Great Western Highway.
Road users are advised of changed day and overnight traffic conditions from Sunday 8 June on Great Western Highway between Old Bathurst Road
and Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains for the road safety improvement work.
Work will be completed between Sunday 8 June and Friday 15 August 2025, weather permitting. We will be on site for up to five day shifts and 30 night shifts in total. Day work hours will be on Saturday between 8am and 1pm. night
work hours will be between Sunday to Thursday, 8pm and 5am.
There will be no work on Friday or Saturday nights or on the Monday 9 June public holiday. There will be temporary traffic changes including road and lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h.
Wentworth Healthcare and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Renew Commitment to Strengthen Healthcare System
WENTWORTH Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN), and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) have reaffirmed their strong partnership by signing a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This document outlines both organisation’s commitment to working together to improve health outcomes for the communities of the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow, and Penrith local government areas.
Wentworth Healthcare, which is largely Federally funded, coordinates and supports the delivery of high-quality primary healthcare
and helps address local health needs and service gaps. State funded NBMLHD, provides a range of acute and sub-acute in-patient hospital services in addition to outpatient and outreach community-based health services.
The new agreement outlines a continued shared vision to deliver integrated, patient-centred care that is accessible to everyone across the region. Together, the two organisations will continue to work on a wide range of projects to strengthen the health system by enhancing service coordination and providing a more holistic approach to improving the health and wellbeing of people living in the community.
Community pharmacy welcomes flu vaccine reforms
THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia welcomes the announcement by Health Minister Ryan Park that community pharmacies can administer the flu vaccine to children the age of two and over.
Previously, community pharmacists could only provide the flu vaccine to patients the age of five and over.
This will free up GPs to deal with more complex health issues and make vaccines more accessible for patients across NSW.
This announcement by the Minns Government recognises the potential of pharmacists to provide more critical health services.
“No parent should need to worry about access to healthcare for their child. This announcement means that a new cohort of children can visit their community pharmacy and receive a flu vaccine,” said NSW State President, Mario Barone.
“Community pharmacy is ready to take pressure of busy GPs and
emergency departments by providing more vaccinations and treating a wider range of everyday health conditions.”
Pharmacists deliver approximately 40 per cent of flu vaccines nationally but have not been able to administer them to children under five until now.
Community pharmacies are
the most frequently accessed and accessible health service in Australia, with over 443.6 million individual patients annually. This decision means that the flu vaccine will be much more accessible to young children across the state.
The Pharmacy Guild also supports
the NSW Government’s reforms to scope of practice announced at the Guild’s annual Pharmacy Connect conference last September.
The Pharmacy Guild looks forward to a wide range of everyday health conditions soon being available for treatment in community pharmacies across NSW.
This reform builds on the success of our state’s UTI and oral contraceptive trials, which has seen over 27,000 treatments delivered since May of last year.
Since the success of these trials, the treatment of UTIs and oral contraceptives has now moved into permanent practice.
In addition, more than 1,700 patients have been treated for atopic dermatitis, impetigo, and shingles in the 6-month trial that began in August last year.
The hard work, clinical excellence, and professionalism of community pharmacists across the state has laid the foundation for this transformative reform.
Innovation Roof Restoration
Do the quick and easy bowel screening test that could save your life
THIS Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, the NSW Government is urging eligible people to take the bowel screening test, with only two out of every five people in NSW who receive the kit taking the test.
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program’s test is quick and easy, with those who have done it before almost three times more likely than first-time invitees to do it again.
The test is available to those aged between 45 and 74 years and is the easiest way to detect the early signs of bowel cancer, Australia’s second deadliest cancer. If caught early, bowel cancer can be successfully treated in more than 90 per cent of cases.
The risk of bowel cancer increases significantly with age, but people of all ages can get the disease. Anyone experiencing changes in bowel habits, bleeding, fatigue, anaemia, or unexplained weight loss should see their GP.
People can reduce their risk of bowel cancer by eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, cereals and wholegrains, maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active; and by doing the at-home screening test every two years from age 45.
People aged 50 to 74 receive free bowel screening tests to the address they have registered with Medicare. People aged 45 to 49 years need to request their first test kit, and will automatically receive subsequent kits.
The Cancer Institute NSW recently went live with the Bowel Cancer Screening “Do the test” Advertising Campaign to motivate eligible people
in NSW to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
The campaign is being delivered across a range of advertising channels, including radio, press, digital and social media.
The campaign is among several Cancer Institute NSW led initiatives to increase bowel cancer screening rates and to support people on their clinical pathway following a positive test result.
Find out more about bowel cancer screening in NSW here: Free Bowel Cancer Screening Test KitCancer Institute NSW
“Unfortunately, Australia has one of the highest incidences of bowel cancer in the world and it’s the second biggest cancer killer in NSW, with more than 1,700 people expected to lose their lives to bowel cancer this year,” said Health Minister Ryan Park.
“We have this free screening test that is quick, easy and very effective in detecting the early stages of bowel cancer but we need more people to take part.
“This Bowel Cancer Awareness Month I encourage everyone eligible to not delay and do the test, for yourself and your family.”
NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of Cancer Institute NSW Professor Tracey O’Brien AM said if caught early, bowel cancer can be successfully treated and we know that people who do the test are almost twice as likely to have their cancer detected at the earliest stage, when it’s most treatable.
“Bowel cancer is not just an old person’s disease. With more and more young people being diagnosed with bowel cancer, I encourage everyone no matter what age to be vigilant for symptoms and see your doctor if there’s any concerns,” Professor O’Brien said.
“I urge everyone eligible for the screening test not to put it off, it is quick and easy and could save your life.”
Rachel Rizk, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer at age 55 said it was a big shock when she was diagnosed with bowel cancer after seeing her doctor for erratic bowel movements.
“I had several unused tests sitting in my cupboard when I was diagnosed and I felt so silly, so now I tell everyone to do the test,” Rachel said.
“The test is not disgusting, it’s actually very easy and it’s the best way to get an accurate result. Once I finally did it, I wasn’t sure why I didn’t do it sooner, I felt quite ridiculous letting it go so long.”
ORCHARD HILLS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Ph 4736 2027
49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills
Pets Are Family: What the new rental laws mean for pet owners in NSW
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
AS of May 19, 2025, important changes to rental laws in New South Wales have made it easier for tenants to keep pets in their homes. These changes reflect what many already believe—pets are more than just animals; they’re beloved members of the family. For renters, this is a positive shift that recognises the emotional bond between people and their pets.
Whilst tenants must still request permission from their landlord to keep a pet, the process is now clearer and more balanced. Landlords are required to respond to a written request within 21 days. If they don’t respond within that time frame, permission is
automatically granted. Refusals must be based on valid reasons, such as a lack of fencing, unsuitable space, or welfare concerns. Blanket “no pets” policies and “no pets” rental ads are no longer permitted.
Landlords can still set reasonable conditions related to pet ownership— such as requiring carpets to be professionally cleaned at the end of a lease or asking tenants to repair pet-related damage. Open, respectful communication between both parties is encouraged, and any conditions must be fair and appropriate to the type of pet and property.
These new laws not only give renters more freedom but also highlight the need for responsible pet ownership. In NSW, all cats and dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age and registered by six months (cats 4 months) under the Companion Animals Act 1998. Microchipping is not just a legal step—it’s vital in helping lost pets find their way back home.
Desexing is also encouraged and often necessary for discounted lifetime registration. It helps reduce the number of unwanted litters, supports better pet health, and lowers
the burden on animal shelters.
Responsible ownership also means being considerate of others and caring for your pet’s well-being. Renters should manage pet noise, prevent property damage, clean up waste, and ensure their pets receive proper food, clean water, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and access to veterinary care.
Tenants who have a recognised assistance animal are not required to seek landlord approval under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. However, landlords should still be informed and provided with relevant accreditation when available.
These updated tenancy laws are a welcome step forward, recognising the value and joy pets bring to people’s lives. With clear guidelines and shared responsibility, both renters and landlords can work together to create pet-friendly living environments. After all, pets are family—and now, the law is catching up with that truth.
For all your pet care needs, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families
Monthly
Veteran Support Centre
Computer Classes Veterans and partner Thursday mornings @ Veterans Support Cente (Train carriage); for beginners or for Photoshop classes
Merrie Widows Partners of deceased vets Last Wednesday of each month - gathering for lunch @ St Marys Diggers Club
Gov King Day Club Veterans & partner Wednesdays 9.00am @ Mamre House area
Packing Care Boxes
to
Wellbeing activity for June 2025
Wednesday 11th June
Wednesday 25th June
Thursday 26th June
Friday 6th June
Saturday 14th June
Wedded to the service as couple recognised for 50 years of volunteering
JAN and John Graham have been volunteering at Mount Druitt Hospital for more than 50 years, joining in 1973.
They are just some of the incredible volunteers recognised during National Volunteer Week at our Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
The couple, now in their 80’s, recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.
“We enjoy volunteering at the hospital, we get to meet nice people and the staff are lovely,” Jan said.
When asked what’s the secret for living and working together, John says he does as he’s told, and Jan said she’s patient.
Volunteering at the hospital gives us something to think about and gets us up in the morning, Jan said. “ “
That altruistic quality flows through the family line, with John and Jan’s son Scott, also volunteering for the hospital Auxiliary as the Vice President.
Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals (BMDH) celebrated National Volunteer Week by acknowledging the time and energy our devoted volunteers give to helping
our patients, communities, and staff.
BMDH Acting General Manager Kelly Watson said the impact of volunteers like Jon and Jan was immeasurable.
“I’m grateful that Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals has such a kind and caring group of people who work tirelessly to help our patients and staff,” Kelly said.
“Your work reminds us that healing does not just happen from medicine and that it happens through kindness, a smile, and interactions,” Kelly said.
Janette Delia began volunteering at Blacktown Hospital as a way finder and dialysis volunteer started in 2005.
“I am not a person who can sit around and watch movies I want to be out there doing something constructive and helping people,” Janette said.
“It’s so nice when people come
back and thank us and I hope I’m here for the next 20 years,” Janette said.
The longest serving Pink Lady at Blacktown Hospital, Betty Starkey was recognised for an extraordinary 45 years of service.
Teddy Kubica celebrated 20 years of service, as did Wayfinder/Dialysis volunteer Janette Delia.
Congratulations to all our longserving volunteers from Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals: 15 years service: Neil Clissold, Cardiac Catheter Lab 10 years service:
• Blacktown Hospital Pastoral Care: Hector Alimpia, Grant Atkins, Maurice Bru, Marie Celestin, Len Cruz, Rosalia Murciano, Linda Ranee and Teresita Sebastian.
• Blacktown Hospital Cardio Coronary Care Administration: Beverley Jeffery
• Mount Druitt Hospital Auxiliary: John Graham, Scott Graham and Gail Shadbolt
• Mount Druitt Hospital KIOSK: Margaret Smith and Anna Whitmore 5 years of service:
• Blacktown Hospital Pastoral Care volunteers: Akisi Allison, Rodel Baduria, Tara Bamrah, Sobashini Hasthanayake, Robert Hayes and Luke Thomson.
• Mount Druitt Hospital Palliative Care volunteer: Raymond Baldacchino
If you’re interested in volunteering at Blacktown or Mount Druitt Hospitals, please click here for more information.
The Father of Federation
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
SIR Henry Parkes was born to a farming family on the 27th May 1815 at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire in England. He was the youngest of seven children to Thomas Parkes and his wife Martha (Faulconbridge). Thomas was a tenant farmer at the Stoneleigh Abbey Estate. Forced off their farm in 1823 by debt the Parkes family moved to Glamorganshire, then around 1825 they settled in Birmingham where Thomas was a gardener and oddjob man. Henry’s formal education was in his own words “very limited and imperfect” and he briefly attended Stoneleigh parish school and later joined the Birmingham Mechanics’ Institute. As a boy he was obliged to help in supporting the family and worked as a road labourer then in a brick pit and ropewalk before being apprenticed to John Holding who was a bone and ivory turner in Moseley Street. In July 1836 at Edgbaston Parish Church he married Clarinda a 23-year-old daughter of butcher John Varney. In 1838 Henry took Clarinda to London in search of better prospects where they survived a few weeks by pawning his tools and were determined to leave for New South Wales. Henry assured his Birmingham family of his certainty of making his fortune and coming back to fetch all of them. They sailed from Gravesend in March the next year in 1839 on the “Strathfieldsaye” as assisted immigrants and arrived in Sydney in July 1839 with a newly infant born at sea two days earlier. Henry found work as a labourer on Sir John Jamison’s Regentville estate but after six months returned to Sydney to work in Thomas Burdekin’s iron-mongery and Peter Russell’s brass-foundry. In 1840 he became a tidewaiter in the New South Wales Customs Department, slowly buying tools and in 1845 he set himself up where the Old Police Headquarters stood as an ivory turner and importer of fancy goods in Phillip and Hunter Street in Sydney. He opened branches in Maitland and Geelong but both failed and by 1850 he was in financial difficulties and writing to his wife of culpable neglect in his business in Sydney. He had by then become deeply involved in literary and political activities attractions which highlighted the dullness of a business life. Henry leased “Werrington House” from 1860 to 1871. His failure to pay the rent on time was not appreciative of the Lethbridge Family owners. In early May 1861 Henry accepted an invitation from Sir Charles Cowper to tour England as a Government lecturer on emigration at a salary of £1,000 and leaving his family in poverty on their rented farm at Werrington. He was knighted in 1877 and was instrumental in the naming of the “Commonwealth of Australia” for the new nation. In 1888 Clarinda died at their place of residence called “Hampden Villa” in Balmain. She had been very ill for some time but appeared to be much better and she also took some part in conversation and occasionally appeared cheerful. Henry was with her at 1 o’clock and about that time she complained of feeling much worse and was assisted to bed. In the evening Henry had business with his Excellency the Governor and a little before 10 o’clock he
proceeded to the Colonial Secretary’s Office and not thinking of any danger or cause of alarm in his wife’s condition he decided to remain for the night so that he might get to work early the next morning. So, unaware of the possibility of any serious turn in his wife’s illness that was taking place at home and with Dr MacLaurin in attendance, Henry was not sent for. Clarinda’s body was taken to the burial ground at Faulconbridge where the remains of their oldest son was interred some years ago with the funeral being strictly private and confined only to the members of the family. Henry faced immense personal turmoil following the death of Clarinda and quietly married Eleanor Dixon in Sydney in February 1889. She was born at Wooller, Northumberland in England and the youngest child of Thomas and Mary Dixon. After her father’s death in 1869 she came to Australia with the rest of the family. Lady Parkes was considerably younger than her husband and she lived a quiet and peaceful life. Later it was discovered that she had been suffering from an incurable decease and she died at “Kenilworth” Johnstone-street in Annandale in 1895 and was buried at St Annes Church cemetery in Ryde. That same year at St John’s church Parramatta Henry married Julia Lynch, born in Ireland in 1872 who was a 23-year-old former cook and housekeeper for Sir Henry when they married. Henry fathered 18 children. He died in 1896 of pneumonia before Federation came into being at Canberra in 1901 and is buried in the family grave at Faulconbridge, NSW.
Sources: Australian Dictionary of Biography, Obituaries Australia website, Find a Grave.
PS - This is my last History Page. Thanks to Kerrie and the team I was able to let the surrounding people of our district know the heritage that is here and those who came before us. I hope you enjoyed the pages as I did researching it. The society Facebook page will still be active for you to enjoy.
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.
Photo of Henry courtesy of Archive Office of NSW.
Winter school holidays heat up with creative fun at The Joan and Penrith Regional Gallery
SPARK your children’s and teenager’s imaginations these winter school holidays with an exciting line-up of workshops at Penrith Regional Gallery and The Joan.
Join Penrith Regional Gallery for a variety of hands-on art workshops for children aged 3 – 12. Led by the Gallery’s team of experienced arts educators, children can sculpt animals from clay or sketch stories from the imagination. Plus, introduce your preschoolers to the joy of art with a creative play session.
All workshops include a guided exhibition visit, artmaking activities and all materials and equipment.
In celebration of NAIDOC Week, the first week of holiday workshops will draw inspiration from Blak Douglas’ exhibition The Halfway Line. Visitors can also enjoy free
drop-in activities from Monday 7 –Thursday 10 July, 10am – 2pm, with select sessions led by a First Nations educator.
Q Theatre puts the spotlight on creativity and connection at The Joan, with its dynamic program of interactive drama and dance workshops for ages 0 – 12. Highlights include imaginative storytelling, theatre making, musical theatre and a playful morning session for little ones. Don’t miss the special contemporary dance workshop for ages 9 – 12 with the award-winning Western Sydney dance company, Dance Makers Collective.
Early Bird discounts are available for Q Theatre’s workshops – book by 23 June and save $10. Book for you and a friend using the code FRIEND25 and save $10.
Explore the full program below and join in the fun!
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
Western Sydney golfers on form in two Amateur tournaments
DARCY Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC) has captured the NextGEN Amateur Tour event at Castle Hill and Oatlands golf courses, following a playoff with Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC).
Darcy shot rounds of 3-under 69 and 3-under 33 on a fog-interrupted Day One (27 holes) to hold the overnight lead, then held his nerve on Day 2 with a closing 2-under 68, as Kade (71/33/66) staged a late rally to finish tied at the top of the leaderboard at the end of 45 holes.
Darcy would go on to win the playoff to claim the winner’s cheque, ahead of Kade in 2nd, Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) 6th and Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / New South Wales GC) 14th.
Darcy and Kade also finished 1st and 2nd in 18-25 Male division, whilst Ti was the winner in U18 Male.
Round 3 of The Master Pennant
ROUND 3 of the 2025
The Master Pennant golf competition was a tough slog for the majority of the western Sydney clubs, with only 4 wins and a draw from 11 matches.
The winners were Stonecutters Ridge and Penrith in Division 1, Lynwood in Division 2 and Leonay in Division 3, whilst Dunheved managed a tie.
RESULTS: Division 1 (home teams listed first) - Dunheved 4-4 with Cabramatta, Stonecutters Ridge 5-3 over Cronulla, Penrith 7-1 over Asquith, Pennant Hills 7.5-0.5 over Twin Creeks: Division 2 - Marrickville down 5.5-2.5 to Lynwood; Woolooware 5.5-2.5 over Springwood; Division 3Glenmore Heritage Valley down 5-3 to Strathfield, Antill Park 5-3 over Wallacia, Beverley Park 5-3 over Richmond, Leonay 6-2 over Brighton Lakes, Campbelltown 5-3 over Fox Hills.
Home games this Sunday are Twin Creeks vs Pennant Hills (10am), Springwood vs Woolooware (11am), Lynwood vs Marrickville (11.30am), Fox Hills vs Campbelltown (11.30am), Richmond vs Beverley Park (11am), Wallacia vs Antill Park (10am).
Dunheved are away to Cabramatta, Stonecutters Ridge away to Cronulla, Penrith away to Asquith, Glenmore Heritage Valley away to Strathfield, Leonay away to Brighton Lakes.
In junior news, the JNJG Macarthur Junior Masters is being held at Campbelltown and Camden golf courses over Sunday 8th – Monday 9th June, featuring both Boys and Girls Divisions, and are open to any player aged 12-17 Years with an official 18 Hole GA Handicap.
Western Sydney players entered are: Cooper Lett, Hunter McMillan, Riley Stasiuk, Nicole Son (Penrith GC), Jake Thompson, Fletcher Birks (Leonay GC), Hayden Jo, Kaiden Shuttleworth (Dunheved GC), Georgia Karagiannis, Jack Gillett, Jacob
There were 17 entries from western Sydney clubs, with 2 players withdrawing during the first two rounds and a further 8 players missing the cut-off score of 16-over-par.
Dillyn Burazin (Dunheved GC) was the best of the western Sydney contingent, finishing his 3 rounds in 7th place at 3-under-par 209, just 6 shots in arrears of the winner Luke Humphries (Goulburn GC) on 203.
Kristopher Clelland (Fox Hills GC) shot 5-over-par 217 to finish in a tie for 20th, Michael Elliot (Penrith GC) shot 8-over-par 220 to finish tied 28th, Christopher Sutanto (Fox Hills GC) and Martin Hooper (Fox Hills GC) both 14-over par scores of 226 to finish tied 47th, Mark Stone (Lynwood CC) and David Bishop (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC) both 19-over-par 231 in a tie for 67th.
and Paul
Bartolome, Savannah Webb, MarieClaire Domingo, Luke Carruthers, Leila Saw, Zachary Isaako, Sean Sammons (Stonecutters Ridge GC),
Darcy Mackay wins at Castle Hill.
Photo courtesy of Ewan Porter / NextGEN Amateur Tour
Dillyn Burazin, Michael Elliot and David Bishop at the Srixon NSW mid-Amateur. Photos courtesy of David Tease/Golf NSW
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Andrew Robb
Groves (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC) both won their matches against Strathfield. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Chayse Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC), Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC), Matt Nathan (Lynwood CC).
NextGEN Amateur Tour Castle Hill winner Darcy Mackay and tournament director Ewan Porter.
BY NOEL ROWSELL Tamworth and Longyard golf clubs hosted the 2025 Srixon NSW Mid-Amateur golf tournament over the 31st May - 2nd June.
ASBK heads to Morgan Park QLD for Round 4
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE motorcycle racing spotlight will fall squarely on Warwick, Queensland and the multi-purpose Morgan Park motorsport precinct over 13-15 June, as it hosts the Australian Superbike and ProMX Championships over consecutive weekends, as part of a wider celebration of motorcycle sports.
Thanks to support from the Southern Downs Regional Council, the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) returns to Morgan Park Raceway for Round 4 of its 2025 campaign from June 13-15.
The ProMX Championship will make its firstever visit to Morgan Park on Sunday, June 22 competing on the extensively upgraded Warwick
MX Club-run motocross track.
The two Motorcycling Australia national championships will form the backbone of ‘Warwick Bike Week 2025’. with ASBK featuring six classes and over 22 hours of on-track activity in what could be a season-defining round for so many.
Morgan Park Raceway has become a mainstay on the ASBK calendar. The tight and twisty nature of the 12-turn, 2.96km layout means that race winners rarely prevail without some serious heat, this year’s Race 2 in the premier Superbike class being a prime example, as Mike Jones (Yamaha) just outlasted Ducati’s fast-finishing Broc Pearson to win in a cliff-hanger.
Local riders, 15-year-old William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise) and 13-year-old Xavier Curmi (Wallacia), will both be in action on the weekend, with William competing in Yamaha R3 Cup and Road & Race
Hunt in action earlier this year. Photo courtesy of RbMotoLens / Motorcycling Australia
Supersport, whilst Xavier will compete in the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup.
Aussies primed for action at Canoe
THE ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup series commences in La Seu, Spain on 7-9 June, followed by World Cup 2 in Pau, France from 12-15 June.
Paddle Australia has selected a strong team for the opening two events, including Olympic champions Jess Fox OAM (WK1, WC1 and WKX1) and Noemie Fox OAM (WK1, WC1, WKX1), supported by Kate Eckhardt (WK1 / WC1) and Georgie O’Callaghan (WKX1) in the women’s lineup.
The men’s team is also strong, featuring Australian Olympians Lucien Delfour (MK1, MKX1), Tim Anderson (MK1, MKX1) and Tristan Carter (MC1), supported by Ben Pope (MK1, MKX1), Kaylen Bassett (MC1) and Ben Ross (MC1).
Abbreviations – Women’s Kayak (WK1), Women’s Canoe (WC1), Women’s Kayak Cross (WKX1), Men’s Kayak (KM1), Men’s Canoe (MC1), Men’s Kayak Cross (MKX1)
Jessica Fox OAM: Indisputably the greatest Canoe Slalom paddler of all time, Jess is a French-born Australian Olympic and World Champion, making her debut at 18 years of age at the 2012 Olympics in London and winning a silver medal in
the WK1 event. Jess followed up with bronze in the same event in Rio (2016) and Tokyo (2020), before winning gold in Paris (2024). Jess is also the sole Olympic champion in the WC1, having won gold in Tokyo when the event debuted at the Olympic Games, and again winning gold in Paris. Her six Olympic medals make her the most decorated canoe slalom paddler, male or female, in Olympic history. Jess has also won 22 medals at the
ICF Canoe Slalom World Champions, with 14 golds, five silvers and three bronzes. Her ten gold medals in individual events make her the most successful paddler, male or female, in World Championship history.
Noemie Fox OAM is a Frenchborn Australian who has competed at the international level since 2013, winning two world championships. Noemie won the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the Women’s Kayak Cross, becoming the first-ever Olympic champion in that event.
Kate Eckhardt has competed at the international level since 2013, winning two medals in the K1 team event at the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, with gold in 2023 and silver in 2017 and gold in 2023.
Georgie O’Callaghan has been paddling for around eight years and competing for five years. She has competed in the Canoe Slalom Oceania Championships since 2020 and her most memorable moment from the Slalom Oceania Championships was in the 2024 season, where she put down a strong and clean run that secured her spot for World Cups 3, 4 and 5 later that year.
Lucien Delfour was born in Papeete, French Polynesia and started his canoe career in 1997, at the age of 8. Lucien has competed at the international level since 2006, representing France before moving to Australia in 2010, where he has since represented his adopted country. Lucien qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, reaching the Final and finishing 8th in the MK1. He won silver in the 2006 European Junior Championships in Nottingham (GBR) and won selection to the Australian team for the Rio 2016 Olympics. He has won several medals at the Canoe Slalom World Cup, finishing second overall in the MK1 in 2015.
Tristan Carter was born and raised in Melbourne Victoria, before moving to Penrith to both live and train. He began his Canoe Slalom career in
BY NOEL ROWSELL
The 10-person Australian team which will be competing in World Cup 1. Above: Jess Fox OAM. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Noemie Fox OAM
Kate Eckhardt
Slalom World Cup 1 in Spain
2006 and attended his first Junior World Championship in 2014, aged 15. He was selected for two further Junior World Championship teams, three U23 World Championship teams and four Senior World Championship teams. Tristan moved to Penrith in full dedication to being the best athlete he can be.
Timothy Anderson has competed at the international level since 2010, including in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Tim competes in the K1 and Kayak Cross events and was crowned the Oceania champion in 2024. Later, at the 2024 Australian Open, he placed fifth in the K1, earning his place in the Olympic team, as well as winning the Kayak Cross event. Tim achieved his career-best result of 5th in the MK1 event at the 2023 World Championships in London, qualifying a quota for Australia for the 2024 Olympics in Paris. He won a silver medal in the MK1 team event at the 2012 Junior World Championships in Wausau, Wisconsin (USA) and made the Kayak Cross quarterfinals in all five races of the 2023 World Cup to finish 3rd in the overall standings.
Kaylen Bassett: 2021- 2025
Australian Canoe Slalom World Cups Team, Australian Canoe Slalom World Championship Team; 2020 Australian Canoe Slalom U23 Team, Australian Canoe Slalom World Cups Team, Australian Wildwater World Cups Team, Australian Wildwater World Championships Team; 2019 Australian Wildwater U23 Team, Australian Wildwater World Cups Team, Australian Wildwater World Championships Team; 2018 Australian Wildwater World Cups Team, Australian Wildwater World Championships Team; 2017 Australian Wildwater U23 Team, Australian Wildwater World Cups Team.
Benjamin Ross was selected for Junior U23 World Championships in both 2022 and 2023. Also selected for U23 Ivrea ECA Canoe Slalom Cup in 2022.
Ben Pope lives in Perth, WA and started in Canoe Slalom at age 11. He competes at the Australian National Championships every year and also won selection in the 2013 Australian Youth Olympics.
Georgie O’Callaghan
Lucien Delfour
Kaylen Bassett
Ben Ross
Ben Pope
Tim Anderson
Tristan Carter
Panthers win 1 from 4 in NBL1 East double header
THE Penrith Panthers senior basketball teams have finished with 1 win and 3 losses in Round 9 of the 2025 Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 East basketball competition, falling in both games at home on Friday night and winning 1 from 2 on Saturday night on the Central Coast.
The Panthers were at home to the Bankstown Bruins on Friday night, losing the women’s game 90-76 and the men’s game 81-77.
Australian representative Shyla Heal has brought winning form to the previously lowly-ranked Bankstown women’s team, beginning the previous weekend with their shock win over reigning premiers Newcastle. Heal led the scoring again last weekend against the Panthers, as the Bruins overcame a first half
struggle to record a 90-76 win.
Jordan Vasquez was once again huge for the Panthers with 27 points / 14 boards, ahead of fellow import Mia Heide with 15 points.
In the men’s game, it was Penrith who held the lead through the first three quarters, defying the presence of Bankstown’s current and former NBL players Jaylin Galloway and Jason Cadee.
The fourth quarter would however prove decisive, with the Bruins taking the lead for the first time in the second minute of play, before the two teams began an arm wrestle for supremacy, with the lead changing hands eleven times in the period.
Crucial unanswered baskets late in the term would, however, allow the Bruins to escape with an 81-77 win.
Bankstown Bruins Women 90 def Penrith Panthers 76 (Jordan Vasquez 27 points / 14 boards, Mia Heide 15 points)
Bankstown Bruins Men 81 def Penrith Panthers 77 (Zeke Evans 18 points / 12 boards, Jonah Pares 15 points / 11 boards, Brodie Schwarzer 13 points, Ben Kearins 11)
Both Penrith teams were on the road to Terrigal on Saturday night, looking to bounce back into the winning form against the Central Coast Crusaders and finding success in the women’s game.
The Crusaders appear to be on a path to this year’s wooden spoon and the Panthers were determined to push them further in that direction, leading at every break to ultimately finish winners at 73-58.
The imports again stood out for the Panthers, with Vasquez grabbing 20 points / 17 boards and Heide 19 points / 20 boards, whilst Teagan Edwards chipped in with 10 points.
Central Coast jumped the Panthers men from the opening whistle, in the second game of the night, scoring the
first 10 points to set themselves on the path to victory.
Central Coast led 27-14, 50-35 and 71-51 at the end of the first three breaks respectively, then matched the Panthers basket for basket in the final term to run out winners by 98-77.
Makur Jongkuch led the Panthers with 14 points, ahead of Jack McWilliams 12 and import Oliver Amajoyi 10.
The Penrith women now sit in 11th spot on the women’s competition ladder, whilst the Penrith men have dropped to the bottom of their ladder.
The competition has a general recess for the King’s Birthday weekend, then the Panthers host the Hornsby Ku-ring-Gai Spiders on Saturday night 14 June (women 5.30pm, men 7.30pm), then host the Canberra Nationals (women) and Gunners (men) on Sunday – women 11am, men 1pm).
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Serika Shillingsworth and Ben Kearins in action for the Panthers on Friday night. Photos courtesy of James O’Donohue
NRL Team List: Round 14
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has named his squad for the Round 14 clash against Wests Tigers at CommBank Stadium.
ISAIAH Papali’i (knee) and Luke Garner (concussion) have been included on the reserves list after both missing the past two games through injury. The Panthers will wear the 2025 Home Jersey for the match.
1. Dylan EDWARDS - sponsored by Zenn Ability
2. Tom JENKINS - sponsored by Protech Locksmiths
3. Izack TAGO - sponsored by CC Tyres
4. Casey McLEAN - sponsored by Granville Plastamasta
5. Brian TO’O - sponsored by Casella Express
6. Blaize TALAGI - sponsored by Penrith City Tyres & Auto
7. Nathan CLEARY (c) - sponsored by Wisdom Dental & Denture Clinic
8. Moses LEOTA - sponsored by Gourmet Meat Company
9. Mitch KENNY - sponsored by Potter Automotive
10. Lindsay SMITH - sponsored by Eather Group
11. Scott SORENSEN - sponsored by Café at Lewers
12. Liam MARTIN - sponsored by Uphire
13. Isaah YEO (c) - sponsored by Wright Way Plumbing & Civil
- sponsored by Hertz 18. Brad SCHNEIDER - sponsored by We Love Kitchen 19. Isaiah PAPALI’I - sponsored by Kennect Electrical
20. Trent TOELAU - sponsored by Panthers Foundation
21. Luke GARNER - sponsored by Panthers Foundation
22. Paul ALAMOTI - sponsored by Panthers Foundation
Round 14 - Sunday 8th June, 4.05pm Commbank
Stat Attack: Panthers v Eels
The Panthers secured a precious win over the Eels in a classic Battle of the West at CommBank Stadium on Sunday.
THE Panthers’ Origin contingent returned from Blues duties to produce immense performances, with Nathan Cleary, Brian To’o and Dylan Edwards standing out.
Cleary kicked all three of his conversion attempts from out wide as well as a 40/20, while Edwards (232m) and To’o (222m) topped the run metres chart and combined for the matchsealing try.
Left-edge duo Casey McLean and Tom Jenkins also stood tall in the local derby. McLean scored one try and assisted another for Jenkins, while both made a number of crucial defensive plays.
TOP TACKLERS
• Mitch Kenny: 52
• Liam Martin: 47
• Lindsay Smith: 42
• Scott Sorensen: 39
• Isaah Yeo: 36
• Moses Leota: 29
• Blaize Talagi: 27
MOST METRES
• Dylan Edwards: 232m (25 runs)
• Brian To’o: 222m (23 runs)
• Tom Jenkins: 155m (16 runs)
• Izack Tago: 149m (13 runs)
• Lindsay Smith: 138m (16 runs)
• Casey McLean: 134m (13 runs)
• Nathan Cleary: 125m (18 runs)
• Moses Leota: 120m (16 runs)
• Scott Sorensen: 106m (15 runs)
• Luron Patea: 105m (10 runs)
POST-CONTACT METRES
• Brian To’o: 93m
• Dylan Edwards: 67m
• Izack Tago: 62m
• Moses Leota: 49m
• Luron Patea: 48m
• Tom Jenkins: 39m
• Casey McLean: 39m
• Isaah Yeo: 35m
• Scott Sorensen: 34m
• Lindsay Smith: 30m
• Liam Martin: 30m
MOST TACKLE BREAKS
• Brian To’o: 5
• Izack Tago: 4
• Luron Patea: 4
• Nathan Cleary: 3
• Casey McLean: 2
• Scott Sorensen: 2
LINE BREAKS
• Casey McLean: 1
• Brian To’o: 1
• Nathan Cleary: 1
• Liam Martin: 1 TRIES
• Casey McLean: 1 (17’)
• Tom Jenkins: 1 (57’)
• Brian To’o: 1 (73’)
