FYI February 1

PULL OUT AND KEEP! PENRITH’S NUMBER ONE ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

ISSUE 120 01.02.13

GIVEAWAY THE STORY OF LANCE ARMSTRONG

PUZZLES YOUR WEEKLY BRAIN TEASERS

MANAGING CARMEN THE LATEST Q THEATRE PRODUCTION

NOT SO OVER YOU WW549

PUCKETT AND THE UNION GAP RETURN TO SYDNEY

02

WW860

Cover Story

03

THERE IS PLENTY LEFT IN THE PUCKETT NATHAN TAYLOR chats with legendary 1960’s artist Gary Puckett about his hugely successful career and upcoming tour in Penrith…

I

t was their most famous hit, number one around the world, but for Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, their smash hit ‘Young Girl’ will always be remembered for the controversy it caused due to the song’s rather risqué lyrical references to under-age romance.

“When people used to think about the lyrics of the song they always used to try and find the dark side – ‘woah what is this guy messing around with little girls’ – not true,” Gary said.

“The lyrics say: ‘you lead me to believe that you were old enough to give me love but now I learn the truth you’ve got to go away, get out of here, get out of my mind’.

“Then people go ‘oh I never thought of it that way I always thought it was a guy scheming on young girls’.”

Gary said over time people started to realise the song was in-fact harmless and began to enjoy it again.

“Maybe as we grow older we become a little wiser but I know these songs mean the same thing to these people as they did all those years ago,” he said.

Later this month Gary Puckett and the Union Gap will be returning to Australia for a series of performances, including at Penrith Panthers on February 23.

Gary said he can’t wait to return to our shores and deliver the music that generations of fans love.

“Australian crowds are very much like the crowds we get in the United States – they’re enthusiastic about music of their youth and I’m glad that I was able to be a part of that musical era,” he said.

“When you think back to that time we only had two different radio wave bands – AM and

FYi Issue 120 Editor Troy Dodds Troy.Dodds@mediaview.com.au

Printed at Spot Press Pty Ltd

FM – and I was part of the AM band where you could hear artists like Jimi Hendrix, Petula Clark, Ozzy Osbourne and then you could hear Gary Puckett, so it was good.

“That’s what made it so nice. Music wasn’t fractionalised so much as it is today.”

Gary Puckett and the Union Gap formed in 1967, enjoying a raft of classic hits including ‘Woman Woman’, ‘Lady Willpower’, ‘Over You’ and of course, ‘Young Girl’.

In 1971 the band broke up before reforming again in 2010. Gary said the secret to a successful band is simple: “make good music”.

“Writing and performing songs that were singable and meaningful to fans is the secret,” he said.

“I’m so lucky to be a part of a wonderful musical era that included a lot of great music.

The fans love that music, they love to sing along and if we can continue to entertain with that music then it’s very fulfilling.

“Oftentimes from the stage I will say, ‘what were you doing in 1969, think about it for a minute. Were you in school, were you falling in love, were you serving your country?’ and people just go, ‘wow that was so many years go!’ But you love the music of your youth and that’s just how it is.”

And it seems the youth of today may be catching on to Gary Puckett and his wonderful back catalogue thanks to a little television show called ‘Glee’.

In November 2009, the cast of ‘Glee’ paid tribute to Gary Puckett by performing ‘Young Girl’ and ‘Woman Woman’.

“I thought they did a great job, in fact their versions of the two songs were just superior, I think they did it really, really well,” Gary said.

Phone: 4722 2998 Fax: 4731 6255

FYi Advertising Manager Cameron Wallace Cameron.Wallace@mediaview.com.au

Content Nathan Taylor

Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Steet Jamisontown, NSW 2750 Production Irene Adams Maddy Searle

That’s what made it so nice. Music wasn’t fractionalised so much...

“I think a lot of younger people did pick up on us from that particular thing, so it was good for us.”

These days, after close to 50 years of performing to audiences the world over, the 70-year-old is still looking for new ways to improve his sound and create new music.

“I have a new project I’m about to do and it involves the guitar,” Gary said.

“I’ve been trying to learn how to be a better guitar player lately instead of just resting upon my old guitar laurels, and I’m starting to learn an awful lot about it.

“The guys in my band are very schooled

and can play absolutely anything. I’m going to be making an album with them that’s going to be based on the Great American Songbook, but it’s going to be more from the blues side of the Songbook, rather than the pop side.”

Don’t miss Gary Puckett and the Union Gap when they return to the country to perform at Penrith Panthers on Saturday, February 23 at 8pm. Tickets are $46.50. To book or for more information call 1800 061 991 or visit www.penrith.panthers. com.au

04

Must See Gigs

COUNTING CROWS AND THE DAYS

M

FREE - Talent entt compet competition for emerging artists.

Two categories - Individual and Group.

3rd Heat - Feb 24th, 2pm at the Penrith Gaels Club entries must be in by Feb 17th see reception staff Finals - March 2nd, 7pm at the Penrith Gaels Club The winner gets the opportunity to play on the main stage at the 2013 Sydney St Patrick’s Day Parade and Family Day on Sunday 17th March.

FREE Entertainment Friday February 1st - 8pm

Saturday February 2nd - 7pm

STEPPIN OUT

TIME MACHINE

Friday February 8th - 8pm

Saturday February 9th - 7pm

BACKLASH

BLACKWATER

FULL $10 LUNCH MENU

SUNDAY RAFFLE

Monday-Friday Only

Starts at 7pm Tickets on Sale from 5pm A variety of prizes including Meat Trays

Complimentary beer, wine or soft drink (members only). 7 to choose from.

Schmidy's catering - the Best Food in Penrith Schmidy’s have introduced a stylish, contemporary menu, delivering a high standard using fresh produce.

Taste the difference, open daily for Lunch 12noon – 2.30pm and dinner from 5.30pm

Cnr Glebe Pl & Richmond Rd Kingswood phone 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au WW241

ulti-platinum modern rockers, Counting Crows, are making their long-awaited return to Sydney this April for their first national headline tour since 2004.

Following the April 2012 release of their first album in more than four years, ‘Underwater Sunshine (Or What We Did On Our Summer Vacation)’, the American seven-piece band head down under for a comprehensive national tour, which will wind up at the Sydney Opera House on April 9.

Formed in 1991 and hailing from the San Francisco Bay area, Counting Crows burst onto the scene in 1993 with their seventime platinum debut album ‘August and Everything After’.

The album featured the worldwide smash hit single ‘Mr Jones’, which topped the charts around the world reaching number one in Canada, number two in the US and number 13 in Australia.

Since then the band have gone on to release five studio albums, multiple live albums and soundtrack appearances.

In 2004 the band struck gold with the ‘Shrek 2’ soundtrack hit song ‘Accidently In Love’, which was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Song, plus a Golden Globe for Best Original Song.

HILARIOUS MANAGING CARMEN

D

on’t miss David Williamson’s uproariously funny new play, ‘Managing Carmen’ – a tantalising comedy about football, gender, sex and slingbacks. The play is coming to Penrith’s Q Theatre, direct from its smash hit sell-out season at the Ensemble Theatre.

‘Managing Carmen’ follows Brent Lyall (Leigh Scully), a freakish young sporting talent with a beautiful girlfriend and two Brownlow Medals.

At the tender age of 24, Brent’s already captain of one of the most powerful football

With Grammy and Oscar nominations already under their belts, the Crows’ sixth studio album ‘Underwater Sunshine’ offers something of a different depth and inspired direction.

Don’t miss Counting Crows when they hit the Sydney Opera House stage live on Tuesday, April 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $119.90.

To book or for more information call 136 100 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.au.

clubs in the land. Managed by the legendary Rohan Swift (Glenn Hazeldine), Brent’s blossoming career, and the millions that come with it, seem assured.

But Brent has an explosive secret, which is on the verge of becoming public. Rohan hires the brilliant ‘corporate presentational enhancer’ Jessica Giordano (Rachel Gordon) to try and find out what Brent is trying to hide… but soon wishes he hadn’t. Brent’s girlfriend Clara (Morgana O’Reilly) loves his taste in designer clothes, and sports journalist Max Upfield (David Hynes) is hellbent on sniffing out the footballer’s secret.

Catch the hilarious ‘Managing Carmen’ when it plays at the Q Theatre from Wednesday, February 13 to Saturday, February 16 at various sessions. Tickets range from $29 - $49. To book or for more information call 4723 7600 or visit www. jspac.com.au.

05

www.stmarysbandclub.com.au 411 Great Western Highway, ST MARYS for further information call 9623 1211

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

in the Keller Lounge

RETRO FRIDAY NIGHTS From 8.30pm till Late

The 39th Annual

Ern Keller Memorial

DJ Spinning a retro mix of party favourites from 80’s, 90’s, Noughties and Now!

International Soloists and Band of the Year Competition Sunday 24th February 2013

Rock & Roll Bands

Adults $10 | Seniors $5 | Children $5- Doors open at 1.00pm

YEAR OF THE

SNAKE Saturday 2nd February Jukebox Jive

Saturday 9th February The Bandits

Join us for CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS in The Buffet Palace Restaurant

Sunday 10th February from 5.30

Be entertained with a live show featuring FIRE CRACKERS | LION DANCING MARTIAL ARTS + LUCKY RED ENVELOPE Visitors $26.50 | Members $25.00 | Seniors $23.50 | Children $2.00 per year of age (2-12 years)

presents p

*Tuesday & Wednesday

KARAOKE SUNDAY NIGHTS Sing-offs from 6pm every Sunday Night in The Keller Lounge

FREE ROLL POKER From 6.00pm

Tuesday Prize Pool $1000 • Wednesday Prize Pool $1000

There’s something for everyone WW337

What’s On The...

06

SMALL SCREEN

BIG SCREEN

I

f there is one heartfelt and fractured love story that you have to see this year, it is definitely the incredible ‘Silver Linings Playbook’.

In cinemas on Thursday, January 31, director David O.Russell tells the tale of two delightful and slightly dysfunctional people who form an unwavering bond when trying to rebuild their lives. This romantic comedy features Bradley Cooper who plays Pat, a man who has been recently released from a state institution and goes back to living with his parents.

Along the way he meets Tiffany (Golden Globe winner Jennifer Lawrence) who is also battling her own demons. This tenderhearted tale traces the unexpected hardships that life throws our way and the undying strength to move forward and keep surviving. The plot is constantly engaging and reminds the audience that in life every cloud has a silver lining. With a great ensemble cast including Robert DeNiro, Jacki Weaver and Chris Tucker, this movie is warm, funny and a little bit unconventional.

T

SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK

ENTERTAINMENT every Saturday night

BISTRO Lunch & Dinner RACING

Every Thursday Night - FREE ENTRY

PARTIES & WEDDINGS

3 x Function Rooms, the largest can cater for up to 300 ppl, great wedding packages available

KENO & PLATINUM TAB Facilities CASH HOUSIE

Wednesday’s From 10.30am & Friday’s 6.30pm

Starring: Bradley Cooper & Jennifer Lawrence [Rated M]

here have been countless movies based on the notion of time travel but most seem to always fall short. Unlike others ‘Looper’ is an exceptional, futuristic thriller that once watched will make you think about its intricately constructed universe.

Time travel is invented and only available on the black market. The mobs use the time travel function to get rid of people so there is no trace of their existence. When they send “looper” Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) a target to kill from the future, he realises he has been sent his future self (Bruce Willis) to kill.

In an attempt to avoid his own assassination the movie follows younger Joe trying to chase his older self in an effort to find out why the mob wants him dead. Director Rhian Johnson brings the audience action, adventure, mystery and suspense that makes this sci-fi thriller so brilliant. One man is both haunted by his future and his past, which makes this movie incredibly intelligent, imaginative and visually stunning to watch.

ECONOMY BUSTER MONDAYS

$2.50 Morning Tea from 10.30am to 11.30am.

Plus mini raffles, strips of 10 numbers for only @ $2.

Mothers Groups more than welcome.

FRIDAY NIGHT BADGE DRAW First draw 6.30pm

Thursday 14th February

a rare chance to dine in our Level 2 Sky Lounge, overlooking the Race Track.

6pm Start in time for our first race.

• Succulent 3 Course meal

12pm to 4pm Prawns and Beer Special of $12

• Tab Facilities, Complimentary Race Book,

Showground Markets e w hav We no

Valentines Night A glass of Champagne or On Tap beer on arrival and a Rose for the ladies.

NEW EVERY SATURDAY

Every Wednesday From 8.30am-1.30pm

LOOPER

Starring: Bruce Willis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt & Emily Blunt [Rated MA15+]

a

Play Ki d srea A

• Lucky Door Prize ( Valentine Hamper )

Only $55.00 Bookings essential 0247 212 375 WW367

Club Paceway, Cnr Station & Ransley Sts, Penrith www.clubpacewaypenrith.com.au 4721 2375

What’s On The...

07

STEREO

CONSOLE

G

C

amers get ready for the release of ‘Dead Space 3’. Join Isaac Clarke and the merciless soldier, John Carver, on a journey across space to discover the source of the Necromorph outbreak.

Explore the frozen planet ‘Tau Volantis’ and comb through the harsh environment for raw materials and scavenged parts.

When parts are found Isaac will have the opportunity to use his engineering skills in the ultimate test to create and customise weapons and survival tools.

In this picture perfect game the team must overcome some of the harshest environmental conditions including avalanches, treacherous ice climbs and the violent wilderness. Facing volatile, evolved enemies and the brutal elements, the pair must work together to save mankind from the impending apocalypse.

The game can be played single or multi player. Gamers won’t be disappointed with discovering the underworld, side missions and extreme action this game has to offer.

It is available on PC, PS3 and XBOX360.

oming out on Friday, February 1 is Pete Murray’s new album, ‘Blue Sky Blue: The Byron Sessions’.

This album celebrates the collaborative Byron lifestyle and includes some very special guest guitarists.

After first releasing Blue Sky Blue, Pete wanted to re-record the album to how it originally was when he was jamming out with his friends. He wanted to take the record and strip it back to the times they would all get together and feed off each other’s music.

Pete put forward the idea to his muso mates and offered them the chance to contribute to this compendium album. Byron locals Ash Grunwald and Scott Owen (The Living End) lend their slide guitar bass respectively to make the record ‘Hurricane Coming’. Katie Noonan’s vocals on ‘Hold It All For Love’ are beautifully haunting and new kid on the block, Fantine takes Pete into uncharted territory on lead track ‘Blue Sky Blue’ with a rap written by indigenous roots queen Natalie Pa’ apa’ a.

DEADSPACE 3 [Rated M] XBOX 360

Another well known Byron local Bernard Fanning takes time out of his busy recording schedule to sing backing vocals on ‘Led’.

Listeners will love the 10 relaxed and re-worked tracks that Pete Murray has changed to suit a local, calm Byron environment and are sure to develop a greater understanding of his music.

PETE MURRAY

BLUE SKY BLUE ‘THE BYRON SESSIONS’

Richmond Inn Hotel and Motel IGHTS N Y A D S R U TH araoke 4 U 2 Sing K

rize P h s a C 0 0 1 $ ill Late

Glass of champagne or non-alcoholic beverage on arrival

9.30PM T

Choice of Snapper fillet with prawn or slow roasted scotch fillet or sweet pea and leek tart

NIGHTS Y A D R U T A S DJ Michael Feb 2nd DJ Troy Feb 9th DJ Mick Feb 16th ic DJ Minimus rd 3 2 Feb y All free entr

served with a complimentary Baileys Irish Cream

FRIDAY NIGHTSteDJ’S 8pm Till La

WW369

WW547

90 March St, Richmond Ph: 4578 1044 WWW.RICKYINN.COM

08

Must See Gigs

OUR BEST AUSSIE EXPORT

L

adies get ready for a hot summer’s night because Manpower Australia are back by popular demand in Penrith and Blacktown later this month.

Australia’s number one male revue will hit the stage at Penrith Panthers on Friday, February 22 and Blacktown Workers Club on Saturday, March 2.

Hot on the heels of the box office success movie, ‘Magic Mike’, the group known in the United States as Australia’s Thunder From Down Under, are returning to their roots for a series of shows.

HEAR THE SOUNDS OF SIMON

O WW841

ne half of legendary male duo, Simon and Garfunkel, is heading to Sydney this April for an incredibly rare performance.

Paul Simon – in the wake of the 25th anniversary of his musical landmark, ‘Graceland’ – will bring fans a performance spanning all eras of his illustrious career.

Simon will be taking audiences through his beginnings in the folk clubs of early 1960’s Greenwich Village, to the warm and anthemic fruits of his celebrated partnership with Art Garfunkel, and his acclaimed solo

This home grown sensation has gone from humble beginnings in a Surfers Paradise nightclub to a residency at the Excalibur Resort & Casino on the famous Las Vegas Strip.

With dynamic dancing and state of the art lighting, this fully choreographed two-hour stage spectacular is a show that has been wooing women all over the world since 1989 and is considered Australia’s best export. The media savvy troupe have even enjoyed the opportunity to appear on some of America’s top-rating TV shows including ‘The View’ and ‘Ellen’.

Manpower Australia will strut their stuff at two western Sydney venues – Penrith Panthers on Friday, February 22 and Blacktown Workers Club on Saturday, March 2. Tickets start at $30. To book or for more information call the venues on 1800 061 991 (Panthers) or 9830 0600 (Workers Club).

career.

Widely regarded as one of the most successful and prolific songwriters of the latter half of the 20th century, Simon has consistently penned songs that are melodically engaging.

During his distinguished career Simon has been the recipient of many honours and awards including 12 Grammy Awards, three of which (‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Still Crazy After All These Years’ and ‘Graceland’) were Albums of the Year. In 2003 he was given a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his work as half of the duo Simon and Garfunkel.

Don’t miss Paul Simon with special guest, the enigmatic Rufus Wainwright, when they perform at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, April 2 at 7.30pm.

Tickets start at $99. To book call 136 100 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.au.

Dining

EATING OUT

F

KING HENRY'S COURT

rom the moment you arrive at King Henry’s Court you are greeted by the friendliest wait staff in town, who love to look after you the entire night.

Set in an historic 1860’s church, the restaurant is split into two separate levels – each offering an unique dining experience.

The bottom floor on which I dined was decked out like a home décor shop, so you basically can shop while you’re eating (that is if you’re with poor company of course).

When it comes to the restaurant’s menu you are truly spoiled for choice with a huge variety of dishes to suit any fussy eater.

For our entrées my dining partner and I tried two of King Henry’s most popular seafood appetizers. The Napoli Garlic Prawns featured six fresh Tiger prawns sautéed in garlic, tomato and basil, served in a hot pot with a side of grilled bread.

The second entrée we sampled was the Salt and Pepper Calamari which was lightly fried, seasoned with the right amount of salt and pepper, and served on a bed of rocket with a side of the most delicious homemade garlic aioli I’ve ever tried.

For our mains we’d thought we dig into one of the restaurant’s famous pizzas from their extensive gourmet pizza menu.

We couldn’t go passed the flavoursome thin-crusted King Henry’s Pizza containing

FREE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

ACOUSTICS ON THE TERRACE

09

mozzarella cheese, garlic, fresh chili, salami and cherry tomato, topped with fresh basil.

This pizza was unlike any you can buy from a regular take away shop and had that genuine Italian feel to it.

Our second main was King Henry’s signature dish – the Chicken Seeded Mustard.

This dish featured a tender piece of chicken breast, served in a seeded mustard creamy sauce with beautiful roasted and seasoned potatoes with mixed vegetables.

This dish was well cooked, nicely presented and packed full of flavour.

After our mains it was finally time for dessert, and it was hard to go passed an Australian favourite – Pavlova. Topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream and drizzled in passionfruit nectar, this Pavlova’s meringue melted in our mouths.

Our second dessert we couldn’t resist was the rich but superb Chocolate Rocher Cake which featured milk chocolate nougat covered in ganache, and served with fresh whipped cream.

So, the next time you’re looking for a quiet family dining atmosphere that’s not your own house, give King Henry’s Court at 74 Henry St, Penrith, a visit.

For bookings or more information call 4721 1155 or visit www.kinghenryscourt.com.au.

- Reviewed by Nathan Taylor

BJ’S BRASSERIE Under New Management & a New Delicious Menu Open for Lunch and Dinner • 7days a week

... The Perfect Space for your next Event

Every Sunday Afternoon from 3pm on our Outdoor Terrace

Valentines Day

Why not do it here in style and take the stress out of planning your next big thing For more information: kirsties@kcsb.com.au

Treat that Special Someone to a Scrumptious Seafood Basket for two $75.00 Booking Essential

Kemps Creek Sporting & Bowling Club Elizabeth Drive, Kemps Creek Ph: 9826 1375 info@kcsb.com.au | www.kcsb.com.au WW861

What’s On

10

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1

RAY BEADLE

February 1 Fitzroy Hotel $20

BROTHERS IN HARMONY

February 2 Blacktown Workers $7.50 members, $10.50 visitors

Retro Friday Night Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8.30pm 9623 1211 Hogans Heroes Venue: St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Steppin Out Venue: Penrith Gaels Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Live Party Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Take A Hit Duo Venue: Kingswood Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 4737 4600 The Kami’s Venue: Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 8.30pm 9625 5500 Club Envy Venue: Penrith Hotel $10, 9pm 4721 2060 Ray Beadle Venue: Fitzroy Hotel $20, 8.30pm 4577 3396 Rebecca Lloyd Venue: Wallacia Panthers

A TRIBUTE TO SUMMER AND HOUSTON

A

spectacular tribute to the divine Whitney Houston and Donna Summer, ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ is playing at Blacktown Workers Club.

The energetic show mixes a blend of strong vocals from amazing ballads to dazzling disco. The overall production features amazing costumes, incredible vocalists, awesome visuals, acrobatic aerial artists and a whole lot more.

Starring lead female vocalist Dina Bit David, this tribute show to the legendary, late Whitney Houston is something that has to be seen to be believed. Dina recently represented Australia in the World Vocal competition in Finland coming second after singing Houston’s biggest hit ‘I Will Always Love You’. Her vocal range suits the songs of Houston to perfection as well as bringing elegance, purity and dynamic sounds to the stage.

‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ is a magical journey of songs from the 80’s to now.

Some of the many songs featured in the production include the show’s title track, ‘Queen of the Night’, ‘How Will I Know’, ‘Greatest Love’, ‘Saving All My Love’, ‘All At Once’ and ‘I Have Nothing’.

Alisa Gray, a multi MO and Ace award winner, will also be there on the night performing the hits of the iconic disco dance diva, Donna Summer. Alisa is a sexy disco diva adding her high energy to some of Summer’s biggest hits including ‘Macarthur Park’, ‘Hot Stuff’, ‘Bad Girls’, ‘Last Dance’ and more.

Also featuring in the spectacular are Ellicia and Mitch, Australia’s leading Latin dance champions, who will perform amazing dance and adagio pieces on stage.

Don’t miss the fantastic production ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ when it dances into the Blacktown Workers Club next Saturday, February 9 at 8pm. Tickets are $8.50 for members and $12.50 for visitors.

To book or for more information call 9830 0600 or visit www.workersclub.com.au.

Free entry, 8pm 4773 8417 Trudy Lee Venue: Glenbrook Panthers Free entry, 8pm 4739 1711 Oliver Goss Venue: Penrith Panthers Free entry, 8.30pm 4720 5555

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Power of Two Venue: Blacktown Workers Free entry, 9pm 9830 0673 Brothers In Harmony Venue: Blacktown Workers $7.50 members, $10.50 visitors, 8pm 9830 0673 Nova Tone Venue: Kingswood Sports Club Free entry, 8.30pm 4737 4600 Rock and Roll Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8.30pm 9623 1211 Urban Stone Venue: St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Time Machine Venue: Penrith Gaels Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180

Live Jazz Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Live Party Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Seattle Sound Venue: Penrith Panthers Free entry, 9pm 4720 5555 Akinga Venue: Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 8.30pm 9625 5500 Live Entertainment Venue: Penrith Paceway Free entry, 6.30pm 4721 2375

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Live Country Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Live & Local Venue: Penrith Panthers Free entry, 4pm 4720 5555 Free Entertainment Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 5pm 9623 1211 Want your gig included? Email details to nathan.taylor@mediaview.com.au.

What’s On FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8

FOREVER ROD

February 8 Penrith Panthers $31.50

THE SUNNY COWGIRLS

February 9 Rooty Hill RSL $29.50

Retro Friday Night Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8.30pm 9623 1211 The Frocks Venue: St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Backlash Venue: Penrith Gaels Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Live Party Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Remixes Venue: Kingswood Sports Club Free entry, 7.30pm 4737 4600 Out of Salem Venue: Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 8.30pm 9625 5500 Club Envy Venue: Penrith Hotel $10, 9pm 4721 2060 Forever Rod Venue: Penrith Panthers $31.50, 7.30pm 1800 061 991 Steve Twitchen Venue: Penrith Panthers

HONEST MUSIC OF THE COWGIRLS

I

t sometimes seems like the Sunny Cowgirls have risen straight from the warm heart of Australia. They radiate sunshine and that dry, iconic Aussie sense of humour.

Sunny Cowgirls, Sophie and Celeste Clabburn, are the first to admit that they need a little dirt under their fingernails to create their own very special brand of music.

“The songs we write come from a very real place – they’re always inspired by where we’ve been and the people we’ve met. If we stay away from the bush for too long, we find we just can’t write,” Sophie said.

The Sunny Cowgirls have a reputation for fun and lively shows and while audiences nationwide love them for their irresistible smiles and songs of mischief, there is also a maturity to their music.

“We write about what we know, and we write from our hearts. The reason our music connects with people is because we’ve lived the songs and the country life,” Sophie said.

“We are fortunate to be able to do both the things we love – live in the bush and still write and sing our music.”

The girls will be heading to Rooty Hill RSL next week to play some old favourites as well as tracks from their new, popular album ‘What We Do’. Just some of their new tracks include party starters ‘A Game’ and ‘All Nighter’ and the beautiful track ‘Green and Gold’.

These songs are sure to have country music enthusiasts tapping their feet away all night.

“We’re all so excited to have these new songs to play,” Celeste said.

“I think it’s really important that we get out to as many towns as possible. Lots of our fans don’t live in major cities and I think we owe them a trip.”

Catch the delightful Sunny Cowgirls performing their unique country music sound at Rooty Hill RSL on Saturday, February 9 at 8pm. Tickets are $29.50.

To book or for more information call 9625 5500 or visit www.rootyhillrsl.com.au.

Free entry, 8.30pm 4720 5555

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Chris Drummond Duo Venue: Blacktown Workers Free entry, 9pm 9830 0673 I Want To Dance With Somebody!

Venue: Blacktown Workers $8.50 members, $12.50 visitors, 8pm 9830 0673 GTS Venue: Kingswood Sports Club Free entry, 8.30pm 4737 4600 Rock and Roll Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8.30pm 9623 1211 Boogie Boys Venue: St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Blackwater Venue: Penrith Gaels Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Live Jazz Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Live Party Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200

The Ten Saxes Venue: Penrith Panthers $31.50, 7.30pm 4720 5555 Urban Stone Venue: Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 8.30pm 9625 5500 The Sunny Cowgirls Venue: Rooty Hill RSL $29.50, 8pm 9625 5500 Live Entertainment Venue: Penrith Paceway Free entry, 6.30pm 4721 2375 Blues Platoon Venue: Fitzroy Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4577 3396

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Live Country Band Venue: Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Bowles Brothers Venue: Penrith Panthers Free entry, 4pm 4720 5555 Free Entertainment Venue: St Marys Band Club Free entry, 5pm 9623 1211 A great venue to spend a Sunday evening!

11

12

HOGS BREATH CAFE For Valentine couples, 2 x two course meals

for $60 Ph: 4721 4288 www.hogsbreath.com.au

SITTANOS Upon mention of this ad, Valentine dining couples will receive a

FREE Bottle of Sparkling Wine Ph: 4722 4444 www.sittanos.com.au

SAN CHURRO Spend over $30 on any chocolate retail item and receive a

FREE Red Rose

Spanish guitarist roaming the store throughout lunch and dinner Ph: 4722 5525 www.sanchurro.com

13

KINGSTON & CO.

FREE Dessert

for every dining valentine couple ph:(02)47313703 email: info@kingstonandco.com.au

WW660

14

WW856

Television

15

boxer Jeff Fenech is set to join the hit show with Stephanie Rice, Prinnie Stevens, Kim Johnson, John Steffenson, Brian Mannix, Rob Mills, Dawn Fraser, Dermott Brereton, Peter Berner, Prue Macsween and former ‘Big Brother’ contestant Layla. The series will likely premiere over the next month or so.

CHATTER ON THE BOX with Nathan Taylor

T

he tennis is over and cricket is just about done, and it’s time for networks to resume normal programming…

Kicking off this week was the new series of ‘My Kitchen Rules’ and boy did it get off to a good start. 1.38 million viewers tuned in to the first episode, beating ‘Masterchef: The Professionals’ by nearly 500,000 viewers. It’s understood the series, which was filmed late last year, actually gets better as the episodes roll on, so expect to see the numbers climb for ‘MKR’ over the coming weeks.

‘Celebrity Apprentice Australia’ went back into production this week with some of the contestants already being revealed. Former

‘Smash’ lovers look out because SoHo is fast-tracking the musical-drama series from next week. The second series will air this Wednesday, February 6 at 7.30pm, the same day as its US debut. The surprise hit of 2012 will this time feature some new cast members as well as a new show-runner. Also returning are new episodes of the popular ‘The Big Bang Theory’. Nine will screen two new episodes from this Monday and Tuesday from 8pm.

Sad news last week with the death of an Aussie icon, Patricia Lovell, best known as ‘Miss Pat’ on ‘Mr. Squiggle’. Lovell died last weekend following a battle with liver cancer.

She was 83.

A few of our favourite shows were renewed in the US recently. Channel Ten’s ‘Dr. Phil’ has been renewed for three more years, as has HBO’s hugely successful ‘Girls’ which will continue for a third season. It wasn’t good news for US comedy ‘Ben and Kate’, which recently got the axe and ‘Don’t Trust The B In Apartment 23’, which also got the chop.

of ‘Kourtney & Kim Take Miami’. Kourtney, along with her partner Scott and their children Mason and Penelope, will share a mansion with Kim in Miami as the sisters make the destination beach city their home base for the next few months.

Get excited Kardashian fans, returning to E! on Tuesday, March 5 is the latest instalment

Lastly, one show that I’m loving at the moment is A&E’s ‘Ghost Adventures’,

screening every Saturday night at 11.30pm. If you love the paranormal but can’t stay up that late, set your IQ or DVR because this show is absolutely awesome. The ‘Ghost Adventures’ crew investigate the scariest, most notorious, haunted places in the world. The enthusiastic trio interview eyewitnesses and historians at each location, arming themselves with the stories of the ghosts they will later confront.

Tranquility & Peace of Mind on your own island ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

MOUTH WATERING

LAKESIDE RESTAURANT

Entree Sample ■

Chilli Prawns (served in cast iron pot) ■ Crispy Asian Chicken ■

Parmesan Truffle Gnocchi Main Sample

■ ■

Seafood Pot (served in cast iron pot)

Herb crusted New Zealand Venison

Normal menu applies with a range of specials ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

6 Course Degustation Menus available Opening Times Thursday for Lunch-Dinner Friday for Lunch-Dinner Saturday for Brunch, Lunch-Dinner Sunday for Brunch

BOO

K NO W FO VALE NTINE R S DAY

NEW EXTENSIVE WINE LIST to compliment NEW Menu ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

International Regatta Centre Gate A, Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith Lakes www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au Ph: 4729 3222 WW874

16

Book of the Week

Sales Representative Would you like to work for a leading local business that’s been part of Penrith for over 21 years?

Do you want to work with a fun and dynamic team of professionals?

Are you up for a new challenge this year?

Are you an experienced sales rep in any field?

If you can say yes to these questions then we want to speak to you!

Due to some exciting changes in our business, we’re looking to add an experienced sales rep to our team. With a mix of business development and account management, this will be a broad and varied role. This may well develop into a leadership role for the right person.

To be considered for the role you will need strong written and oral communication skills, a solid background in sales of any sort and the persistence to succeed in a competitive sales environment.

To apply for this role email your CV and cover letter to Simon on simon.gould@mediaview.com.au.

WW876

SEVEN DEADLY SINS MY PURSUIT OF LANCE ARMSTRONG

The Q presents Ensemble Theatre Company’s

MANAGING CARMEN

By David Williamson

David Williamson’s smash-hit comedy Managing Carmen comes to the Q after huge success in Brisbane, Perth and a sell-out season at Sydney’s Ensemble Theatre.

An uproariously funny comedy about football, gender, sex and slingbacks.

By David Walsh

T

Critic’s are raving: “A night of fun and hilarious entertainment” “One of Williamson’s best” “alarmingly funny” “David Williamson is at the top of his game”

WEDNESDAY 13 FEB AT 8PM THURSDAY 14 FEB AT 11AM FRIDAY 15 FEB AT 8PM SATURDAY 16 FEB AT 2PM & 8PM

Members $39 / Members 30 and Under $29 Adults $49 / Concession $44 / Thursday Matinee Seniors Special $30 Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre 597 High Street Penrith BOOKINGS 4723 7600 or jspac.com.au WW836

he story of Lance Armstrong – the cyclist who recovered from testicular cancer and went on to win the Tour de France a record seven times, the man who wrote a bestselling and inspirational account of his life, the charitable benefactor – seemed almost too good to be true. And it was.

As early as Armstrong’s first victory on the Tour in 1999, Sunday Times journalist David Walsh had reason to think that the incredible performances we were seeing from Armstrong were literally too good to be true.

Based on insider information and dogged research, he began to unmask the truth.

Cycling’s biggest star used every weapon in his armoury to protect his name, but he could not keep everyone silent.

In the autumn of 2012, the USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) published a damning report on Armstrong

that resulted in the American being stripped of his seven Tour victories and left his reputation in shreds.

Walsh’s long fight to reveal the truth had been vindicated.

This book tells the compelling story of one man’s struggle to bring that truth to light against all the odds.

Seven Deadly Sins: My Pursuit of Lance Armstrong is now available through Simon & Schuster Australia in paperback format.

FYI has five copies Seven Deadly Sins to give away. For your chance to win one, send an envelope with your name and phone number on the back to Weekender Lance Armstrong Competition, Suite 2, 42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown 2750. Entries close Friday, February 1. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/12/01138.

Terms and conditions at www. westernweekender.com.au.

Mind Benders ACROSS 1.

4.

8.

11.

13.

15.

17.

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

18.

20.

21.

24.

27.

28.

30.

31.

33.

34.

35.

36.

39.

42.

44.

45.

46.

48.

49.

50.

52.

54.

55.

56.

57.

60.

62.

65.

67.

69.

70.

72.

73.

75.

77.

Solution to last week’s mind benders

Leader Cadet Grow dim Army chaplain Glorify Fly without power American baseballer, ...

DiMaggio Governed Great age Confuse Study tables Some Sprightly Colder Racket Stern Respectable Serpents States Merged Foaling farms Radio knob Stuns Hessian bag Stew-flavouring herbs, bouquet ...

UK country Stare lustfully at Fathered Inconsiderable Coleslaw or Greek 10-year period Shop clearance Flows away Crippled Oriental market Timid creature Family vehicle Too sentimental Morning condensation Hot under the collar Goat mammary gland Affirmative answer

79.

81.

82.

84.

85.

86.

87.

88.

Lazed Crowd in upon Forewarn Squares (up) Hawk’s claw Quote Weirdness Treats (cow hide)

1

2

11

15

10.

12.

14.

16.

19.

22.

23.

25.

26.

29.

32.

35.

37.

38.

40.

41.

42.

43.

44.

47.

51.

52.

53.

54.

Enormous Imitating Parent Minister (to) Contemptible Required Slippery fish Common virus Geography reference volume Small whirlpool Distributed (cards) Fire crime Lolls Foe Send off tracks Washed (with tongue) Builds Massages Publishing ’Tis (2’1) Disembarks Foot joint Hoards Pins for hammering Michelangelo’s mas terpiece statue Did needlepoint Cut (wood) Dribble Professions Simpler Most sensible Insist Cope

4

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

21

28

22

23

29

18

24

25

27

31

33

32

34

35

36

39

40

41

44

42

45

38

46

47

49

50

51

52

53

55

58

67

54

56

59

62

60

63

64

68

73

79

65

70

74

75

80

71

76

81

77

82

84

86

61

66

69

72

58.

59.

61.

63.

64.

65.

66.

68.

37

43

48

57

10

19

26

30

17

9

14

17

20

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

3

78

83

85

87

88

71.

72.

74.

76.

78.

Dog-like predator Record Additionally Spots Bank cash dispensers (1,1,2) 80. First woman 83. Load

Meant Australian bird Paying customer Stage whisper Judged Xmas trinket Of hearing Baby owl

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO SHOW YOUR ved one o l r u o y ty Would est quali n i f e h t enjoy lable in i a v a k a ste Penrith?

Book

Or mayb e the fre shes seafood platter in t Penrith would be more to your l iking?

720 5588 e le now on 4

ailab ptions av o u n e m et.au Set ://osso.n p t t h it is v

OSSO

THIS VALENTINE’S DAY?

Book no w on 4720 5652

Set men u options available visit http ://hanks .net.au

WW872

18

Weekly Wine

RUTHERGLEN’S DURIF VINES WILL WIN OVER DEVOTEES

by David Ellis

D

espite the many organisations they have to promote their industry, our winemakers are a pretty much independent and individualistic lot.

So it was with interest I learned of a group in Victoria’s Rutherglen who’ve been successfully working together to promote not their industry and not their region, but just one wine they all make, Durif.

And they’re quick to point out that they’ve been doing it virtually since the first Durif vines were planted at Rutherglen in 1908 by the forebears of today’s families behind the eight labels of the Durif vines, All Saints, Bullers, Campbells, Cofield, Morris, Rutherglen Estates, Scion Vineyard, and Stanton & Killeen.

“And at the same time they’ve also been able to further develop their own individual house styles through exploring new viticultural and winemaking practices,” said Chairman of the Durif of Rutherglen Network, Colin Campbell.

“And then bout 10 years ago we went a step further by establishing the Network to lift the profile of Durif amongst red wine lovers, and to win over new devotees.”

For more information about Durifs of Rutherglen, email susie@campbellswines.com. au.

Special occasion: Christmas, New Year and Australia Day may now be behind us, but that’s no reason to stop drinking the bubbly stuff. Yellowglen have released two sparklings for those extra special occasions that will come up in 2013: a 2002 Exceptional Vintage XV and a 2004 of the same label. They were both made from fruit sourced from their Hargrave Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills.

Only the best parcels of fruit were chosen, and then the best resultant wines left to mature for up to 10 years, leading to wines with a rich complex palate, delicate bead and lingering finish. Both sparklings are wonderful value at $49.99.

Tranquility & Peace of Mind on your own island ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

MOUTH WATERING

LAKESIDE RESTAURANT

Entree Sample ■

Chilli Prawns (served in cast iron pot) ■ Crispy Asian Chicken ■

Parmesan Truffle Gnocchi Main Sample

■ ■

Seafood Pot (served in cast iron pot)

Herb crusted New Zealand Venison

Normal menu applies with a range of specials ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

6 Course Degustation Menus available Opening Times Thursday for Lunch-Dinner Friday for Lunch-Dinner Saturday for Brunch, Lunch-Dinner Sunday for Brunch

BOO

K NO W FO VALE NTINE R S DAY

NEW EXTENSIVE WINE LIST to compliment NEW Menu ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

International Regatta Centre Gate A, Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith Lakes www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au Ph: 4729 3222 WW873

19

WW843

20

Travel

TRACKS BACK TO LONDON’S RAIL HISTORY

by David Ellis

T

his month 150 years ago, when a small steam engine hauled a handful of VIPpacked rail carriages under the streets of London from Paddington to Kings Cross and Farrington Street, it made history as the world's first-ever underground railway.

And so fascinated were Londoners – and others who flocked from across the country to marvel at this wondrous innovation – that next day 40,000 people formed queues kilometres long in streets surrounding the line's seven stations to ride the train and go down in history as rail transport pioneers.

The London Metropolitan Railway had to bring in extra engines and carriages from other companies, and ran 120 subterranean trips at 2-pence, 3-pence and 6-pence per passenger in three classes in each direction… earning itself 850-pounds for the day.

Yet those first day passenger-numbers pale in significance when compared with patronage of today's London Underground: in 2012 the network carried almost four million passengers daily, for around 1.17 billion passenger-journeys for the year.

And in 150 years its tracks have extended far beyond central London, to stretch out now like vast steel tentacles under much of Greater London, as well as under the River Thames, and into the suburbs and countryside of Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Surrey, Kent and Middlesex – some 402km of tracks in all.

Equally interesting is how the first "underground" tracks were created. Rather than tunnelling under London, more than 2,000 workers demolished blocks of houses, slums and other buildings, and hand-dug shallow trenches where these buildings had previously stood.

Rail tracks were laid in these trenches, which were then roofed over and new streets, parks and modern buildings created above them, while stations were fashioned in larger domed areas that had shafts down which natural light could enter the stations – and up which smoke and steam could hopefully escape.

But when these shafts proved unsuccessful in easing the discomfort of so

much smoke and steam for rail-users, some sections of the Underground were uncovered, allowing vaster amounts of polluted air to escape directly into the atmosphere.

As the underground network expanded, horrified Londoners complained of the unsightliness, noxious fumes, and noise of these caverns located amid rows of prestigious terrace apartments in some of the finer parts of the city. Authorities then dreamed-up the bizarre idea of hiding these exhaust-holes behind fake facades of elegant-looking buildings, several of which are still fullymaintained and can be seen today along such streets as Leinster Gardens in Bayswater, as well as on Queensway and in Craven Hill Gardens.

The advent of the first electric locomotive in 1890 brought with it a smoke and steamfree environment and tunnels that could be built much deeper below London – as one newspaper columnist quipped at the time, "below grave level".

In celebration of the first trains that ran on January 9, 1863 celebrations planned throughout 2013 include restored-train trips, special Commemoration Coins to be issued by the Royal Mint, stamps by Royal Mail, talks and historic-rail presentations, and theatrical performances. Restored-train excursions have already included the original London Metropolitan Railway's No 1 locomotive. For more details, visit London Transport Museum’s site: www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/tube150.

A specialty wine here is Aleatico; a rich, sweet, dessert red that as well as being heartily tossed down by the glass is also tossed with gusto into another favourite called Schiaccia Briaca – the locals’ appropriatelynamed “drunken cake”. And yes, our guide assured us, Aleatico was a favourite of Napoleon, who would drink a glass with breakfast every day. Yeah, well…

(She revealed her grandmother swore by the wine too, also quaffing a glass a day. “She said it was for her health’s sake, and Grandma lived to 100 years, one month and 10 days.”)

Elba is most-famous, however, for its beaches, including two that remarkably are reserved for dogs. Humans don’t swim at these unless taking their pets into the water, and inspectors regularly check that canine

patrons have a Pet Passport certifying they’ve been micro-chipped and appropriately vaccinated. And after their ocean frolics, the happy pooches can rinse-off under their own little doggy-height showers.

Our guide also pointed out the tiny offshore island of Monte Cristo – yes, the one made famous by Alexandre Dumas in his 19th century The Count of Monte Cristo. But if you want to visit there, register now; only 1,000 visitors are allowed on this now-national park annually, and the waiting-time is three years.

Elba’s beaches, restaurants, bars and museums are infamous, but its connections with Napoleon are what it’s best-known for: just about every major building seems to have some link with the man which makes for an intriguing experience.

ELBA’S RICH HISTORY AND CULTURE

by David Ellis

N

apoleon could certainly have done a lot worse than being exiled to the little Mediterranean island of Elba in 1814 in punishment for his surprising loss in the war with Russia, which he’d sought to add to his list of other conquests across Europe.

Not only was Elba a place of exquisite natural beauty, laying in the sunny Tuscan Archipelago off Italy, but the allied Sixth Coalition that had forced the Emperor’s banishment allowed him to take a thousand or so faithful troops and other followers with him – and extraordinarily bestowed upon him sovereignty to run the place.

But while he stated publicly that Elba was “where he would be happy to rest” and where he threw himself into building new schools and hospitals, improving road networks and encouraging the arts, he was also quietly plotting his escape… successfully doing so just 10 months after setting foot on the island.

And he did it remarkably easily. One evening when the British Navy’s “guard ships” based in the island’s Portoferraio harbour were conveniently away elsewhere, Napoleon and his men simply hopped aboard a few vessels

put at their disposal, and sailed 280km across to land near Cannes in France.

Today just 31,000 permanent residents live a laid-back lifestyle on dreamy little Elba, somehow putting up with an extraordinary four million visitors who annually visit between March and October.

We recently spent a captivating day on Elba during a Mediterranean cruise, taking a tour there with a proverbial “walking encyclopaedia” guide from Italian sightseeing specialist DDP-Incentive: she had a yarn to spin about everything from Napoleon’s time on the island to the wine, the culture and the honey industry whose bees thrive on wild rosemary and lavender… and the blossoms of Australian eucalypts that were imported to manufacture medicines and which, she said, “are simply nice to breathe”.

Amongst places we visited was the historic Tenuta La Chiusa Winery that’s both a winery and a collection of holiday cottages right on the beach in Portoferraio, and which dates back to the 1700s – and where, today’s owners proudly say, Napoleon chose to stay on a couple of occasions.

Local Gigs

21

THE STORY IS KING IN COUNTRY

I

f you’re in the mood for a unique event that celebrates the power of song writing, then head to Rooty Hill RSL for ‘Songwriters in the Round’. Each week, three singersongwriters perform their songs in acoustic mode and explain the inspiration behind their compositions.

“It makes for a powerful delivery – the audience is entranced and engaged because they understand the meaning behind everything in the song. The format behind the shows is something I’ve seen in Nashville but never in Australia,” said songwriter Luke O’Shea, who hosts the event.

With a variety of artists performing throughout February, including Golden Guitar Award-winning country artists Mike Carr and Kirsty Lee Akers, the audience is certain to be enchanted not only by the spectacular performances, but also the stories behind each song.

“In country music, the story is king – the craft of song writing tells stories about

everything. Human beings have always loved stories and they become more powerful in a live format,” O’Shea said.

O’Shea will be travelling all around Australia to promote ‘Songwriters in the Round’, including Sydney, Cairns and Adelaide. He hopes that by travelling around Australia, including Rooty Hill RSL, he will be able to assist emerging artists.

“In Australia, we lack an organised route for new singers. By coming along to this event, you can support emerging singer-songwriters.

I’m grateful to the RSL for supporting the emerging music scene.

“It’s a great evening with world-class singer-songwriting – it’s a fascinating and inspiring night of music for both the artist and the audience.”

‘Songwriters in the Round’ will take place throughout February, with shows on February 7, 21 and 28. This free show starts at 8pm in the Club Lounge and is for adults only. For more information visit rootyhillrsl.com.au.

We Let the Music Do the Talking www.fusionfm.com.au Ph 47 311678

WW431

WW490

22

Social Scene

AUSSIES LET US ALL REJOICE It was our national day of celebrations on January 26 and Penrith marked the occasion with an array of cultural and typically ‘Aussie’ events.

Mums, dads, grandparents and kids decked themselves out in Australian flags, Australiana themed clothing and proudly wore the green and gold.

The largest Australia Day event was at Penrith Lakes where thousands of families gathered to watch spectacular shows with jet skis, dancers, motorbikes and many other performance highlights.

There were special shows by Timomatic and Seattle Sound, and a dazzling fireworks display ended what was hailed by all as a great day.

For some the day also marked their citizenship, with some 250 people gathering at Penrith City Council to partake in a citizenship ceremony and a traditional Aussie barbeque afterwards.

Photos courtesy of Penrith City Council.

Social Scene

23

24

161 GEORGE ST, WINDSOR Ph: 4577 3396 http:// www.fitzroyhotel.com.au

> Feb 1st RAY BEADLE

> Feb 10th DREW MCALISTER

._8.30pm $20 tickets

available at venue or moshtix

FREE ENTRY 1 - 4pm

> Feb 9th

FREE ENTRY _8.30pm

BLUE PLATOON

> Feb 16th

FREE ENTRY

MINUS HOUSE

_8.30pm

JAM NIGHT > Feb 15th TIM STOKES

FREE ENTRY

every Thursday night

from 7.30pm back line provided all music styles welcome

_7.00pm

WE SUPPORT RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL. DUTY of CARE This hotel supports designated drivers.Is gambling a problem for you? Call G-LINE (NSW) a confidential anonymous & free counselling service Free Call 1800 633 635 WW875