Weekender September 17 2026 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

Free INSIDE

weekender

the western Thursday, September 17, 2026

Celebrating 35 years!

www.westernweekender.com.au

Penrith’s leading coverage of the NRL! Page 33

CLUB GIVES BACK

Panthers Penrith has donated more than $2 million to some 59 community groups over the past 12 months as part of its ClubGRANTS program. This week, those community organisations came together at the club to recognise the important work the grants have funded, and the difference they’ve made in Penrith. Emily Chate reports on Page 9. Photo: Melinda Jane.

SPORTS CAR DESTROYED

IT’S SHOW SEASON!

BEST IN SPORT HONOURED

Blaze after huge crash: Page 3

School holiday fun: Page 49

Annual awards: Page 78

LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE TRADIE? OUR DIRECTORY STARTS PAGE 26 ADVERTISEMENT

Foot Ankle Care

astepahead.com.au | 9673 2987

57690

59094

A Step Ahead

LOCAL NEWS

Ella is giving local youth a bigger voice KEELY MARSH

or Penrith Anglican College student Ella Johnson, community service is not about recognition, instead it’s about using her experience to help others. The Year 11 student has spent years helping others, and in more recent times advocating for better healthcare and supporting causes across Penrith, with her efforts recognised when she was named Penrith’s Young Citizen of the Year.

“I’m very passionate about making change and just helping lots of people, I love serving others and being someone people can talk to,” Ella said. Her passion for advocacy has been shaped by her own experiences navigating the healthcare system. “What sparked my advocacy was probably my own healthcare journey and when I was younger, I had a stutter, so I couldn’t really speak up for myself, but I have a voice now,

so I can use it to help more people,” Ella explained. Ella now uses that voice as a Youth Council member with the Sydney’s Children’s Hospital network, contributing to discussions about healthcare and ensuring young people and families are heard. She has also contributed to the NSW Health Website Information Refresh Panel, judging the SCHN Excellent People Awards and recently

Ella Johnson with Penrith Anglican College Principal Felicity Grima.

Ella Johnson. Photo: Melinda Jane.

joined a University of Sydney research team focused on improving healthcare. Her community work extends well beyond health advocacy, with Ella involved in fundraising for Ronald McDonald House Charities and mental health initiatives, Clean Up Australia Day, school events and community activities. “She has been able to take the experiences that she’s had in her own life and see them as opportunities for helping other people,” Penrith Anglican College Principal Felicity Grima said. Ella also recently represented young people across Australia at the inaugural National Youth Parliament, where she took part in parliamentary debates and delivered an adjournment speech on improving healthcare access in western Sydney. “It was so cool, hearing everyone’s

unique voices and getting to know different people, different perspectives and their journeys as well,” Ella said. Closer to home, Ella participated in the College’s Dusty Boots service trip to Wellington, helping prepare meals, improve gardens and clean homes. “Seeing the smiles on all their faces was just so rewarding,” Ella said. For Grima, her students’ achievements reflect her genuine commitment to service. “She’s so humble that most people don’t know what she has done over the years,” Grima said. Despite the growing list of accolades, Ella remains focused on the reason she started. “I just want to keep going because it’s something I love doing and I’m super passionate about,” she said.

Penrith's No.1 Kitchen Renovator. Sale Ends Soon,Visit our showroom this weekend!

www.kitchenconnection.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

WW59292

Penrith Homemaker Centre, Opp. Chemist Warehouse

LOCAL NEWS

CORVETTE DESTROYED Man seriously injured, $200k car up in flames after huge crash at Luddenham

man was left seriously injured after a Corvette crashed into a tree at Luddenham earlier this week. The crash happened at around 8pm Monday, prompting a huge emergency response. The Corvette, just months old, left Luddenham Road and crashed into a tree before catching fire. Police say the driver was a 23-yearold man who was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition. As a result of the crash, several

A Corvette was destroyed in a crash on Monday. Photo: TNV.

The wreckage of the car is placed on a truck. Photo: TNV.

Emergency crews at the crash site on Monday. Photo: TNV.

Emergency crews debrief following the crash at Luddenham. Photo: TNV.

trees also caught alight and were extinguished by NSW Fire and Rescue and RFS NSW officers. It is understood two bystanders assisted the driver before emergency services arrived. There are unconfirmed reports the vehicle was travelling at high speed and overtaking vehicles in the lead-up to the crash. The vehicle, worth about $200,000, was a 2026 model. As inquiries continue, anyone with dashcam or CCTV vision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

20 50% OFF Pots *

20%

50%

OFF*

FP Collection Harrington Square Pot Ivory 25cm

2499

Was $49.99ea

50%

OFF*

FP Collection

Dune Planter Range

FP Collection

Landscape Centre

n e p O Every Day Prospect 8am · Penrith 7am

Hamilton Pot Range

PENRITH

P R O S P EC T

Cnr The Northern Rd & Castle Rd Orchard Hills, New South Wales 2748

25 Rowood Rd, Prospect, New South Wales 2148

PH 4736 5088 OPEN 8AM - 5.30PM 7 DAYS CAFE 8AM - 4PM 7 DAYS

PH 9896 1899 OPEN 8AM - 5.30PM 7 DAYS CAFE MON-FRI: 8.30AM - 4.30PM SAT-SUN: 8.30AM - 5.00PM

WW59386

*Valid Thursday 17 September - Tuesday 6 October 2026, in-store only at Flower Power Penrith and Flower Power Prospect. Not available at any other Flower Power location or online. Some exclusions apply. Excludes all other offers. While stocks last. Limited stock. Discount off full priced items. Discount off single purchase price.

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

PO BOX 7105 South Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998

www.westernweekender.com.au facebook.com/westernweekender @westernweekender @westernweekender @wwpenrith @westernweekender.bsky.social @westernweekender Western Weekender Issue 1763 Advertising: Editorial:

sales@westernweekender.com.au

news@westernweekender.com.au

Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor Journalist: Emily Chate Journalist: Keely Marsh Journalist: Madeline Dantier Photographer: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622 Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Maria Van Den Broek, Callum Gilbert, Rebecca Vella To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Kacey Wilson, Madeline Dantier, Ian Beard

Accounts & Bookings Coordinator: Amanda Coskerie

There’s many ways to get your paper each week – including via email! Visit westernweekender.com.au/getapaper to find out more.

The Western Weekender is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

NRL must learn its lesson I

f you’ve read my musings about rugby league crowds or listened to the Tension’s Running High podcast, you would know last week’s disappointing NRL Finals attendances came as no surprise to me. We can only hope that the NRL learns lessons from last weekend and completely reviews the way it promotes and prices the Finals next year. Everything from the Finals launch to the media build-up, venue allocations to ticket prices and the ultimate match day experience must be looked at, reviewed and refreshed. Just 28,152 turned up at Allianz Stadium on Friday night to watch the Rabbitohs play the Knights. It was South Sydney’s first Finals appearance since 2022, at a venue they plan to play more games at in coming years. For there to be 14,000-odd empty seats is a major concern for the NRL. Just 17,429 turned up at the same venue to watch the Sharks play the Cowboys on Saturday. This game should have been played at Shark Park. The NRL reverted to home grounds about a decade ago after a brief stint at bigger stadiums for week one Finals matches because of crowds like the one experienced on Saturday. There has been an obsession about Shark Park not being up to standard to host Finals matches given its 15,000 capacity and poor facilities. But something got lost in that debate. Sharks fans want to go to that dilapidated, broken down stadium more than they do the flashy one half an hour away. Dysfunctional as it may be, it is home. Do you lock people out of attending? Possibly, though I dare say that 17,429 number from Saturday may be a little inflated. It’s not dissimilar to the argument about Leichhardt Oval. A venue Tigers fans want to cram into, as uncomfortable as it may be, yet pundits keep telling them they should want to sit in a cookie cutter “world class” stadium with no soul instead. And then we get to Sunday, where CommBank Stadium was far from a sellout

INDEX

News..........................................................1-23 Business..............................................24-28 Connection to Country.........29-32

Motoring....................................................75 Sport.....................................................76-80

• Family and Community Services • Ageing and Disability • Fair Trading • Local Government • Land and Water Management • Primary Industries

Contact Tanya

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 9834 2966 tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Extra Time.......................................33-48 Entertainment..............................49-58 Home & Lifestyle........................59-74

HOW I CAN ASSIST YOU:

tanyadaviesmp 57686

released later in the week. By then, many had made other plans. It may be the NRL’s job to handle ticketing for the Finals but I dare say they may not be doing a very good job of it. Once you’re inside the ground, you’re paying $9 for an ice cream or $15 for a beer. Another $1 for a tray to carry your beers. It is nothing short of a turn-off. Meantime the match day experience is essentially the same as a club game. None of it screams “I want to go back next week!” The build-up to the first week of the Finals also needs some work. It’s almost like the NRL just thinks it can go through the motions and people will turn up. A city-based media launch, some of the best players unavailable to the media, nothing that screams “this is unmissable”. None of this should be a surprise. We have been here before and we will be here again. But the journos who cover the game for the major media outlets and the talking heads on shows like ‘NRL 360’ and on various league focused radio stations spent most of this week fan shaming. It was fans’ fault they didn’t go to games. Ticket prices got a fleeting mention, but the main problem was the fans themselves. How about these journos get off their butts and actually do some decent deep dives into the reasons people didn’t go? For me the big, broad issue is that members or season ticket holders, call them what you will, are essentially left out in the cold when it comes to the year’s biggest matches. They are your most loyal fans, yet you actually give them very few advantages or incentives come Finals time except for a pre-sale which is often flawed anyway. While perhaps not financially viable for the NRL, it is best to give control of home Finals matches back to the clubs who know their fans best. Perhaps the NRL should actually control week two and three Finals, while the clubs retain week one. Whatever happens, the NRL must learn some lessons from the weekend. The swarms of empty seats were embarrassing.

$25

for Penrith’s clash with the Sydney Roosters on a beautiful spring day. 22,148 was not a good crowd, though I do think there’s a couple of factors that need to be considered as far as Penrith fans go beyond the actual circumstances of this particular match. Panthers fans are at the end of what has been a two-year pilgrimage to Parramatta while Penrith Stadium has been unavailable. They’ve done it through rail trackwork and delays, crawling traffic and often poor match scheduling. Because we build new stadiums without car parks, existing car parks end up being totally gridlocked and the drive home can have hours added onto it. For some, the extra effort and cost of doing it again in a week one Finals match was likely too much of a stretch. And while this may be a bit of a flex, being a Penrith fan has been pretty bloody expensive over the past seven years or so. There is no question that ticket prices were a significant factor in the disappointing crowds over the weekend. I paid $124 for a seat in my usual CommBank Stadium bay on Sunday afternoon. Throughout the Finals and hopefully ultimately the Grand Final, I will pay more to see three games than the cost of my season ticket for the entire year. A few days earlier I paid $199 for a top tier ticket to see an international country music artist from the United States. I won’t even have the sun in my eyes! The NRL advertises cheaper tickets, of course. But most of the tickets you see heavily promoted as affordable are behind the posts or in other words, the worst seats in the house. It makes people second guess their purchase and ponder if staying at home and enjoying the first class television coverage rugby league enjoys is a better option. It doesn’t help the NRL totally controls ticketing during this period. The corporate areas appeared half empty on Sunday at CommBank Stadium. Premium bays in the eastern side were held back from sale for “operational reasons”, only

Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road St Clair NSW 2759

Authorised by Tanya Davies MP, Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road, St Clair NSW 2759. Funded using Parlimentary Entitlements.

57806

the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Preparation is key for your safety EMILY CHATE

s summer nears, the Penrith community is being encouraged to take simple steps now to prepare for weather emergencies in the future. To support residents this EmergencyRedi Week, Penrith City Council has developed a series of videos to help people understand risks in their local area, make an emergency plan and know where to find reliable information when they need it. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said taking a few simple steps before an emergency can help people recover quicker and reduce the impacts on themselves, their families and their property. “Penrith has and will continue to face natural disasters and other emergencies, and EmergencyRedi Week is an important reminder for residents to understand local risks, make a plan and know where to find reliable information,” he said. “There is an increased risk of extreme weather this coming summer, which makes it even more important for our community to be ready for emergencies. “Being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated. These videos highlight that everyone’s situation is different, and encourage residents

to take small, practical steps now that can make a big difference when the unexpected happens.” Funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the videos encourage residents to think about their own circumstances, household needs and support networks, and the practical steps they can take to be better prepared for natural disasters. Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman has experienced the effects of a bushfire and encourages residents to act now. “In 2013 I lost my home to a bushfire that swept through Winmalee, and in the decade that I’ve been the Federal Member, I’ve supported my communities through floods and fires since then,” she said. “All of that’s given me a deeper understanding of the impact of disaster and the big difference smaller acts of preparation can make. “Practical and straightforward advice like that delivered through this program is really key for people to prepare themselves and their families for something we hope will never happen. “Whether it’s making an emergency plan, knowing where to access trusted information or preparing an emergency kit, every small action can make a big difference. I encour-

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney and Senator Tony Sheldon with members of the RFS and SES in Penrith.

age all residents to take advantage of these resources and start preparing today.” Senator Tony Sheldon said being prepared when the worst happens can be the difference. “The best time to think about an emergency is well before you’re in the middle of it. Knowing who to call, where to get reliable information and what you need to take with

you can make a huge difference when every minute counts,” he said. “As someone who’s visited communities in the aftermath of floods and bushfires, I know just how important the small things can be for families when disaster strikes.” For more information about Council’s video series, visit penrith.city/emergency-ready.

Penrith

Depot

PENRITH RETURN AND EARN DEPOT

For bulk returns visit 7 Pullman Place, Emu Plains Open 7 days | Get 10c per eligible container 1 c0

c01

1 c0

c0 1

Return and Earn is a NSW Government initiative WW59322

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

LAWandORDER Police Snapshot

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Legal Matters

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

WITH DANIEL MCKINNON

Bateman Battersby Complete Legal | 4704 9991 | 19 Lawson St, Penrith

Glenmore Park: Man charged with high range drink driving A man has been busted high range drink driving in the middle of the morning. At 10.20am on Thursday, September 10 police were completing random breath testing on Glenmore Parkway in Glenmore Park. Police stopped a car and had a conversation with the driver, a 37-year-old Glenmore Park man. The 37-year-old was submitted to a breath test that returned a positive result. Checks were made on the 37-year-old that revealed he was disqualified from holding a driver’s licence. The 37-year-old was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station for a second breath test that returned a positive reading of 0.153. The 37-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, October 22.

Penrith: Man brandishing knife arrested A man will front court after pulling out a large knife in the middle of Penrith last week. At 11am on Thursday, September 10 a 18-year-old man was walking along Edwards Place in Penrith while holding a phone in his hand. The 18-year-old could see a man who was yelling out to him. The man pulled out a butcher’s style knife from the waist band of his pants and moved the knife towards his own stomach. The 18-year-old ran from the scene and called police. Police arrived and found a 45-year-old Springwood man who they placed under arrest. The 45-year-old was searched, and the butcher’s knife was found as well as some methylamphetamine. The 45-year-old was charged with three offences, he will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, October 22.

Penrith: Man charged with mid-range drink driving A man has a court date after taking the risk to drive after drinking. At 9.30pm on Friday, September 11 police were completing random breath testing on Memorial Avenue in Penrith. They stopped a car and had a conversation with the driver, a 34-year-old Emu Heights man. The 34-year-old was submitted to a breath test that returned a positive result. The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station for a secondary breath analysis that returned a result of 0.097.

The 34-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, October 8.

Kingswood: Woman assaults police when being arrested A woman who battled with police over her arrest now has a date in court. At 2.20pm on Saturday, September 12 police were called to a unit block on Bringelly Road in Kingswood about two men who were attempting to gain entry into the property. Police arrived and one of the men told police his sister had been locked out of her unit, and they were trying to get in. A 21-year-old woman then approached police, told them it was her unit, and that she was allowed to reside there because the owner had let her. The 21-year-old gave police her details and checks were made that revealed she had an outstanding warrant. The 21-year-old was told she was under arrest. An officer took a hold of the 21-year-old’s arm, but she began to resist arrest. A second officer took a hold of the woman’s other arm, but the 21-year-old dropped her body weight, attempted to fall to the ground, and struggled with the officers. The 21-year-old was told to put her hands behind her back to be handcuffed but she refused and continued to struggle with police. The 21-year-old then pushed a Sergeant and pulled away from another officer, pushing him into the ground. More police arrived to assist, and the 21-year-old was handcuffed. As she was being escorted to a police car with two officers holding her arms, the 21-year-old again struggled against police. The 21-year-old used the officers who were holding her arms to lift her feet from the ground and kick out at another officer. The 21-year-old then attempted to bite this officer and kick her in the calf. The 21-year-old then told police she had heroin hidden on her body. The 21-year-old refused to remove the drugs and another struggle with police occurred. At this time, an item was seen protruding from her bra. This item was confiscated and determined to be heroin. The 21-year-old was taken to hospital and scans showed she was not hiding anything internally. The 21-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where she was charged with nine offences. She was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, November 2.

Generations of Trust.

EXPLAINER: GRANTS OF PROBATE AND CONTESTED ESTATES We do a lot of work helping clients navigate complicated deceased estates matters, including getting grants of probate. A grant of probate is an order made by the Supreme Court after a person dies leaving a valid will. It confirms that the Court accepts the will as the deceased’s last valid will and authorises the executor to collect the deceased’s assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining estate to the beneficiaries. Probate is commonly required where the deceased owned real estate in their sole name or held substantial bank accounts, shares or investments. It is usually unnecessary for jointly owned property that passes automatically to the surviving joint owner. For example, if Maria dies leaving a house in her sole name and appoints her daughter as executor, her daughter will generally need probate before she can sell or transfer the house. Probate in common form is the usual type of grant. It is appropriate where nobody disputes the will, no probate caveat has been lodged, the original will is available and appears properly signed, and there are no serious concerns about the deceased’s mental capacity or possible undue influence. The executor files the will, death certificate and supporting documents with the Court. If everything is in order, the application is generally decided administratively without a hearing. For example, David leaves a straightforward will dividing his estate equally among his children. Everyone accepts the will, and there are no concerns about how it was

prepared or signed. Probate in common form would ordinarily be appropriate. A common-form grant is legally effective but may later be revoked if someone successfully challenges the will – for example, because a later will is discovered or credible evidence shows that David lacked capacity when he signed it. Probate in solemn form involves a formal judicial determination of the will’s validity, usually following contested court proceedings. It may be appropriate where there is a substantial dispute about whether the deceased had mental capacity, understood and approved the will, signed it properly, was subjected to undue influence, or where forgery or competing wills are alleged. For example, suppose David’s final will unexpectedly leaves his entire estate to a new carer, despite an earlier will benefiting his children. If the children allege that David had advanced dementia or was pressured into signing, the executor may need to prove the will in solemn form. In solemn-form proceedings, interested parties can provide evidence and challenge the evidence relied upon by others. A judge then determines whether the will is valid. A solemn-form grant provides greater finality and is significantly harder to overturn than a common-form grant, although it may still be reopened in exceptional circumstances, such as fraud or the discovery of a later valid will. In short, probate in common form is ordinarily appropriate for an uncontested estate, while probate in solemn form is used where the will’s validity is genuinely disputed or a binding judicial determination is required.

CHARGES AFTER MAN HIT WITH WOOD A man has been charged after attacking another man with a piece of wood. On Sunday, September 13 a 30-year-old Werrington man and a 52-year-old Werrington man who are known to each other due to living in the same unit complex had interacted with each other three times. The interactions led to police being called to the scene. At 6pm police were again called to the unit complex. The 30-year-old had approached the 52-year-old armed with a piece of wood.

Words were exchanged between the men before the 30-year-old demanded a cigarette from the 52-year-old who refused. The 30-year-old then swing the piece of wood at the 52-year-old who raised his arm to protect himself and was struck. Police spoke with the 52-year-old and collected the piece of wood from the side of a unit. Police then went to the 30-year-old’s unit and arrested him. The 30-year-old was charged, bail refused, and will appear in court in November.

Our combined team can advise you Our combined team can advise you on:on: Conveyancing Conveyancing && Property Property Law Law

Wills&& Wills Deceased Estates Deceased Estates

Business&& Business Commercial CommercialLaw Law

Disputes&& Disputes Litigation Litigation

Family FamilyLaw Law

Criminal CriminalLaw Law

Our team has had the privilege of representing local people and local businesses for decades. We pride ourselves on practical legal advice that cuts through confusing legal jargon.

Exceptional lawyers, everyday people. Address 19 Lawson St, Penrith NSW 2750 Online bbcl.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

WW57660

Call (02) 4704 9991 or (02) 4731 5899

Swipe your valid Panthers Penrith Leagues Club Membership card at the Membership Rewards Kiosks for your chance to win. Terms and Conditions available from the Members Centre. Must be in club to win. Visit website for more information. Cruises subject to availability.

penrith.panthers.com.au |

@pantherspenrithleaguesclub ub

WW57749

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

ʵ˘ ʸˠ˘˥˚˘ˡ˖ˬ ˅˘˔˗ˬ ˆ˛ˢ˖˞˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˧˥˘˦˦˘˦ ˖˔ˡ ˛˔ˣˣ˘ˡ ˜ˡ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʟ ˕˨˧ ˔ ˟˜˧˧˟˘ ˣ˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˔ˡ˗ ˣ˥˘ˣ˔˥˜ˡ˚ ˡˢ˪ ˖˔ˡ ˠ˔˞˘ ˔ ˕˜˚ ˗˜˙˙˘˥˘ˡ˖˘ʡ

News

ˇ˔˞˘ ˧˛˘ Ѓ˥˦˧ ˦˧˘ˣ ˧ˢ ˕˘˜ˡ˚ ˣ˥˘ˣ˔˥˘˗ ˙ˢ˥ ˙˨˧˨˥˘ ˘ˠ˘˥˚˘ˡ˖˜˘˦ ˕ˬ ˩˜˦˜˧˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ʸˠ˘˥˚˘ˡ˖ˬ ˅˘˔˗ˬ ˪˘˕ˣ˔˚˘ʡ

LEARN MORE

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ ˘ˠ˘˥˚˘ˡ˖ˬʠ˥˘˔˗ˬ

Contact Us Administration ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Civic Centre, 601 High Street. ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street. ʶˢˡ˧˔˖˧ ʶ˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˂ˣ˘ˡ 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777 PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at ˠˬʡˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

Council Briefs

ʷ˘˦˖˥˜ˣ˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ʿ˔ˡ˗ʭ (Lot 20 DP243750) 114A Marsden Road, Colyton and (Lot 3116 DP813518) 58B Sandpiper Crescent, Claremont, Meadows

FOGO in Businesses Program

ˇ˘˥ˠʭ Perpetual

Penrith City Council, with funding support from the NSW EPA, is supporting local businesses through the 'FOGO in Business' program, a free initiative designed to prepare businesses for ˧˛˘˦˘ ˖˛˔ˡ˚˘˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˛˘˟ˣ ˗˜˩˘˥˧ ˩˔˟˨˔˕˟˘ ˥˘˦ˢ˨˥˖˘˦ ˙˥ˢˠ ˟˔ˡ˗Ѓ˟˟ʟ ˜ˠˣ˥ˢ˩˘ ˘˙Ѓ˖˜˘ˡ˖ˬ ˔ˡ˗ ˟ˢ˪˘˥ ˢˣ˘˥˔˧˜ˡ˚ ˖ˢ˦˧˦ʡ

All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or ˖ˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ, within 28 days of the date of this notice.

From 1 July 2026, relevant businesses are now required to:

ʹˢ˥ ˔˟˟ ˘ˡˤ˨˜˥˜˘˦ʭ Please contact Tara Braithwaite on 4732 7777 or ˧˔˥˔ʡ˕˥˔˜˧˛˪˔˜˧˘ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

• ʻ˔˩˘ ˦˨˙Ѓ˖˜˘ˡ˧ ˕˜ˡ˦ ˪˛˘˥˘ ˙ˢˢ˗ ˪˔˦˧˘ ˚˘ˡ˘˥˔˧˘˗ • Weekly collected food waste is transported separately from non-organic waste to a lawful compost processing facility • Large supermarkets are required to record food donations across six categories including meat, dairy, fruit and vegetables, frozen food and baked goods Council would like to help with your transition to food waste recycling and support your business in every step of the way through:

Services

• In-person and online workshops

ˊ˔˦˧˘ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦

• On-site waste assessments

4732 7777 ʼ˟˟˘˚˔˟ ʷ˨ˠˣ˜ˡ˚ Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates Monday 21 September – 7pm (Ordinary Council Meeting) Monday 28 September – 7pm (Ordinary Council Meeting) Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

ˇˢ ˥˘˚˜˦˧˘˥ ˬˢ˨˥ ˜ˡ˧˘˥˘˦˧ ˢ˥ Ѓˡ˗ ˢ˨˧ ˠˢ˥˘ ˜ˡ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˜ˢˡ ˩˜˦˜˧ ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢʹ˂ʺ˂˜ˡ˕˨˦˜ˡ˘˦˦˘˦ Brought to you by the NSW Government through the NSW Environment Protection Authority.

Is your pool summer ready? Make sure your pool is safe and compliant by checking that gates and latches are in good working order – and never prop gates open. Backyard access must be restricted by a child-resistant pool barrier and fencing should be secure and permanent. Children must always be supervised by a responsible adult and never left to watch others. For more information, visit ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢˣˢˢ˟˦ or contact Council’s Swimming Pool team on 4732 7864.

Twilight Tunes this week! Join us in Memory Park every Thursday this month from 5–8pm. With a stellar lineup of local artists and lots of dining options to savour, Twilight Tunes is the perfect way to enjoy great food, great music and great company right in the heart of Penrith.

penrith.city.council

Public Notice

penrithcouncil

ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʧʪ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ Local Government Act 1993 ʠ ˃˥ˢˣˢ˦˘˗ ʸ˔˦˘ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˢˡ ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˟˔ˡ˗

penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Under Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to grant an easement as detailed below. ʵ˘ˡ˘Ѓ˧˘˗ ˃˔˥˧ˬʭ Eplison Distribution Ministerial Holding Corporation ˃˥ˢˣˢ˦˘˗ ˈ˦˘ʭ Easement for electricity purposes

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ WW59508

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

How Panthers gives back to the community it serves

Development Applications The following Development Applications have been received by Council: • Jordan Springs Lakeside Pty Ltd

DA26/0799

(Lots 1, 2, 3 & 4 DP 1306243) 2, 4, 6 & 8 Lakefront Terrace, Jordan Springs Construction of a 3-storey childcare centre for 114 children with basement and at grade parking, site amalgamation Contact: Jodie Schembri on 4732 7449 Closing Date: Sunday 4 October 2026 • Ajdd Pty Ltd

DA26/0788

(Lots 209 & 208 DP 16937) 62 & 64 Canberra Street, Oxley Park Demolition of existing structures and the construction of a multi-unit housing development consisting of 10 x 2-storey dwellings with strata subdivision Contact: James Heathcote on 4732 8378 Closing Date: Sunday 4 October 2026

Integrated Development Penrith City Council has received an Application to Modify Development Consent in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council. • The Trustee for Keyton Jordan Springs Trust

Mod26/0134

(Lot 1 DP 1248137) 1 Hortsmann Circuit, Jordan Springs ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʧʡʨʨʛʤʴʜ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ʷʴʤʬʢʣʫʣʫ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ˦˧˔˟˟ Ѓ˫˘˗ ˨ˠ˕˥˘˟˟˔˦ʟ awnings and pergolas

The Offer and Ask Wall, an initiative of Panthers.

EMILY CHATE

his week Panthers Penrith hosted their annual ClubGRANTS morning tea, a celebration of the work by local community organisations. In the 2025/26 year, Panthers Penrith contributed $2,193,188 to local community organisations, which is equivalent to more than $42,000 every week. Panthers Penrith General Manager Jason Stone spoke at the morning tea, saying how exciting it was to see money go back into the community. “Through ClubGRANTS Panthers has the opportunity to support people and organisations who know our community, understand its needs, and most importantly, do the work themselves,” he said. “For the 2025/26 Clubs Grant year Panthers contributed over $2 million, let that marinate for a second. $2 million in our community that just this club alone was able to put back into the community, it’s pretty special.” A lot of those community organisations were present at the morning tea. Those organisations span health services, disability support, youth programs, sports clubs, cultural initiatives, and more. “ O v e r the past year, we’ve

supported more than 59 community groups and organisations… These programs and initiatives are incredibly diverse so it is pretty exciting to see,” Stone said. “But it’s not just one group that we supported, it goes across this whole community and reaches so many different levels. “They provide meals and practical assistance to people doing it tough, women and children experiencing domestic violence, and help people facing homelessness. “They provide care and support to people affected by cancer, improve mental health and wellbeing, create opportunities for people living with disability, give people access to mentoring and education, and safe places to connect. They support patients and families in hospitals, promote health and road safety. “They bring people together through community activities and events and create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in grassroots sports. “Behind every one of these programs are the people… people who give their time, share their expertise, volunteer, organise, advocate, and continue to find ways to help others.” Stone thanked Carolyn Stewart from Penrith City Council for her assistance through the program. Stone was then thanked by a representative from The Haven for Panthers’ assistance and presented with a plaque.

The proposal is Integrated Development under Section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. The application requires concurrence from the Development Co-ordination Authority (DCA) with regards to Section 100B of the Rural Fires Act. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from Monday 21 September 2026 to Sunday 4 October 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡʡ ˇ˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜˦ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˘ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ reference number Mod26/0134. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jodie Schembri on 4732 7449.

Nominated Integrated Development Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council. • Mirvac Homes (NSW) Pty Ltd

DA26/0793

Proposed Lot 1120 in a Subdivision of Lot 30 DP 244610, 35–53 Chain-O-Ponds Road, Mulgoa (Glenmore Park Stage 3) Construction of Attached dwellings x 11, detached dwellings x 3 & laneway and Torrens title subdivision x 14 lots & public road The proposed development is Integrated Development. The development application seeks concurrent approval from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under Section 91 of the Water Management Act 2000 and NSW Rural Fire Service under Section 100B of the Rural Fires Act 1997. The development application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker in the period from Monday 21 September to Sunday 18 October 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council in relation to the development application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡʡ ˇ˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜˦ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˘ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ reference number DA26/0793. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Alexandra Pearce on 4732 7757. Viewing of Development Applications

Panthers Penrith General Manager Jason Stone is presented a plaque by The Haven.

LISTEN TO WEEKENDER PODCASTS Expand your readership of The Western Weekender by listening to one of our podcasts. We produce the weekly Penrith Panthers podcast, ‘Tension’s Running High,’ plus the ‘On The Record’ interview podcast.

These insightful podcasts are available free of charge. Search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Podcasts, iHeart and Podcast Addict.

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥˦ ˢ˙ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦ Department will be able to assist with your enquiries. Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrith.city WW59509

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Joke of the Week

Q: What did the ocean say to the beach? A: Nothing, it just waved.

prize cupboard

het her you’re a sea soned g a m e r or just starting to build your ultimate gaming setup, Acer’s Predator range is designed to take every gaming session to the next level. Built for speed, precision and immersive gameplay, Predator accessories combine premium performance with sleek, gamer-focused design. There’s the Predator Aethon 303 Gaming Keyboard (RRP $79.99), engineered for responsive keystrokes and reliable performance during even the most intense gaming sessions. Or get your hands on

iSPY

Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

the Predator Cestus 350 Gaming Mouse (RRP $229), offering exceptional accuracy, customisable controls and ergonomic comfort for hours of gameplay. The Predator Galea 550 Gaming Headset (RRP $599) delivers immersive audio, crystal-clear communication and all-day comfort to help gamers stay one step ahead of the competition. Whether you’re battling it out online, exploring expansive virtual worlds or streaming your favourite titles, Predator is packed with high-performance gear designed to enhance every moment. To discover more Pred-

ator gaming products or browse Acer’s full range of PCs, monitors and accessories, visit the Acer Australia Online Store (store.acer.com/en-au). The Weekender has a Predator prize pack to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to c omp et it ion s @ w e s ternweekender.com.au with ‘Predator’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, September 30 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. w e s t e r n w e e k e n d e r. com.au or Weekender reception.

PET OF THE WEEK

my name: Puss my proud owner: Olivia i live in: Cranebrook a bit about me:

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

Castlereagh Road, near Smith Park or opposite Castlereagh Hall.

Why are people so offended about the Sydney Sweeney sports ad? If you don’t like it, move on. Too many people are reading too much into it. She’s living rent free in too many heads.

Well done to all involved in the return of the Music for Life Spring Ball. Almost $35,000 was raised at the event for the Charlie Teo Foundation.

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

I’m 17-years-old, but I’m still as playful as a kitten. I love couch cuddles, warm sunshine, and chasing lizards and roaches. I don’t like other cats, dogs, or my new cat bed. Email keely.marsh@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.

Dose of Dorin

LOCAL NEWS

Take action and speak up in September EMILY CHATE

his September the Nepean Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group (NBMPCSG) is calling on the community to start a conversation that could save a life. September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and the NBMPSCG is encouraging local residents to take action to help save lives. Each year, around 29,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and there are over 79 new cases every day. Leader of the NBMPCSG David Wilkinson said September is a chance to spark awareness and action. “One in five men are likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. That is one in five

dads, brothers, husbands, nephews, and mates,” he said. “Our goal this September is to make sure more people in our community understand the importance of early detection and support. “Currently, only 36 per cent of men are diagnosed with prostate cancer at Stage 1 when the disease is easiest to treat – together, we can change that. “We encourage all men over the age of 45 to book and appointment with their GP this month to talk about their testing options. A simple PSA blood test is the first line of defence against prostate cancer and can help save your life.” NBMPCSG will hold a prostate cancer awareness evening at Leonay Golf Club on Monday, September 21starting at 7pm.

All local men and women are invited to the free awareness evening where specialist prostate cancer clinicians will speak about early testing and other related matters. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia are also holding its national fundraising challenge, The Long Run, this September. The Long Run encourages Australians to run, walk, or ride 72km during the month in support of the one in five men who will develop anxiety or depression as a result of their diagnosis. 72 per cent will not seek help. The NBMPCSG provides a space for men and their families to share experiences and access resources through their meetings on the third Monday on each month at Leonay Golf Club.

Guest Speakers, Dr Amanda Stevanovic (Medical Oncologist) and Jose Sinagunian (Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse) together with Group Vice president John Parsonage.

“Whether you have just been diagnosed or are supporting someone who has, you are not alone,” Wilkinson said.

“Our group is here to help.” To learn more or to join the support group, contact David Wilkinson on 1300 13 38 78.

WW59496

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

HIDDEN CANCER COST EMILY CHATE

he Leukaemia Foundation has revealed new research that shows one in eight Australians living with blood cancer are missing, delaying, or cancelling treatment due to financial pressures. September is blood cancer awareness month, and the Leukaemia Foundation is highlighting the hidden financial toll of blood. The Leukaemia Foundation’s CEO Chris Tanti said 55 Australians are diagnosed with blood cancer every day and for many the diagnosis is followed by another reality – how to pay for treatment. “Australians facing blood cancer are immediately thrown into a financial storm they never saw coming,” Tanti said. “They are forced to make impossible financial decisions at a time when their sole focus should be on treatment and recovery. “No one should ever have to choose between getting the cancer treatment and care they need to survive and putting food on the table or paying their rent or mortgage – yet our research shows that is exactly what is happening. “One in eight people with blood cancer are missing, delaying

The Leukaemia Foundation is promoting its Cut The Cost of Cancer campaign.

or cancelling treatment or care because they simply cannot afford to do both.” For someone who is experiencing blood cancer, delaying or missing treatment can have life threatening consequences. Blood cancers are one of the most complex cancers to diagnose and treat, often progressing rapidly and requiring urgent, intensive, and highly specialised care.

“Our research found that Australians with blood cancer are facing average annual out-of-pocket costs of $3,910, with some families reporting costs exceeding $20,000 a year,” Tanti said. “We’re increasingly hearing of people draining their savings, accessing superannuation, selling assets like cars, homes and heirlooms, and relying on family and friends to simply survive.

“It’s becoming clearer, that blood cancer doesn’t just cost lives – it costs livelihoods.” Money worries negatively affect the health and recovery of 44 per cent of Australians with blood cancer with the financial impact not ending when treatment does. Ongoing specialist appointments, long-term medications, rehabilitation, chronic side effects and a reduced capacity to work can leave

people dealing with the financial consequences of their diagnosis for years. “Income can disappear almost overnight,” Tanti said. “Then add the cost of getting to treatment, parking, accommodation or having to travel hundreds of kilometres for specialist care for those living in regional and rural areas.” The Leukaemia Foundation helps ease the financial burden of cancer by providing support to Australians diagnosed and their families but Tanti says that more must be done to assist people doing it tough. “Through our Cut the Cost of Cancer campaign, we’re calling on all Australians to support petitions urging state and territory governments to take practical action to help reduce the financial burden of cancer,” he said. “The specific calls vary across jurisdictions but broadly include better travel and accommodation subsidies for regional patients, caps on hospital parking costs, greater support when people must travel interstate for treatment, and more clinical and supportive services closer to where people live.” To view the petition, visit cutcancercost.org.au or visit www.leukaemia.org.au for more information.

Scan the QR code to nominate

Make a nomination today!

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

WW59521

2026 Melissa McIntosh MP

LOCAL NEWS

Turn old cans into books for kids R

esidents in western and southwestern Sydney can turn cans and bottles into books for children who are experiencing disadvantage. Return and Earn has partnered with The Smith Family to raise $200,000 before November 23. Every 30 eligible drink containers recycled will fund one book for a student experiencing disadvantage. The Smith Family is partnering with around 780 Australian schools and supporting almost 72,000 students through the Learning for Life Program. In the west and southwest Sydney region The Smith Family supports 7,860 students through the Learning for Life program and partners with 90 schools. The Smith Family Chief Executive Officer Doug Taylor said education is the key to breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. “Learning for Life is much more than a sponsorship – it’s an educational lifeline,” Taylor said. “A Learning for Life sponsorship provides financial support for school essentials, access to extra education programs and

personal support from a dedicated Smith Family team member. “Every donation to The Smith Family through Return and Earn helps support a child experiencing disadvantage.” Every eligible bottle and can donated will contribute 10 cents towards the fundraising goal, providing 10,000 book packs for students. Chief Executive Officer of TOMRA Cleanaway, network operator for Return and Earn,

James Dorney asked the community to get behind the cause. “This campaign makes giving back and supporting kids easy,” Dorney said. “We encourage communities across NSW to get behind this important cause, which will help put books in the hands of young people in need.” Penrith residents donate at 15 sites across the Local Government Area. Visit www.returnandearn.org.au.

Some of the art is already in place.

Reproductions of artworks from the Art Gallery of New South Wales collection will feature in Nepean Hospital’s new purpose-built palliative care unit, in a new partnership between the Art Gallery and hospital. The program will see 15 framed reproductions from the Art Gallery’s collection featured across 12 single bedrooms, two meeting rooms and one staff office of the Nepean Palliative Care Unit. The artworks will be accompanied with text to encourage observation, mindful reflection and discussion. The artworks were carefully selected in collaboration with clinicians, community members, arts specialists and project team members in the hospital’s Arts Working Group and aim to create a supportive environment that fosters connection between patients, families, carers and staff.

Recycled bottles and cans will fund books for kids.

Is your pool barrier safe? Summer is on the way and now is the perfect time to check your backyard pool barrier. A few minutes of maintenance could prevent a lifetime of regret. If you own a property with a pool, you’re responsible for making sure your barrier meets Australian Safety Standards.

Key requirements: • Internal barrier height: min. 1200mm. • Boundary barrier height: min. 1800mm. • Gaps under/within barrier: max. 100mm. • Gates must self-close, self-latch and swing outward. • No climbable objects within 900mm of the barrier. • CPR sign must be clearly visible within 3 metres of the pool and dated after 31 August 2018. • Never leave children unsupervised in the pool area. Need help? ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ˤ˨˔˟˜Ѓ˘˗ ʶˢˠˣ˟˜˔ˡ˖˘ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥˦ ˖˔ˡ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˘˖˧ ˬˢ˨˥ ˣˢˢ˟ ˔ˡ˗ ˔˦˦˜˦˧ ˪˜˧˛ ˖˘˥˧˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡʡ Let’s keep our families safe – check your pool today! Call Council’s Swimming Pool Safety team on 02 4732 7864

Find out more at

penrith.city/pools WW59432

EMILY CHATE

Art of comfort at Nepean Hospital

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

No bugs in Jessica’s business plan KEELY MARSH

or Jessica Halls working in the pest control industry is nothing new, but 15 years into her time in the trade she’s taken the leap to start her own business. That Pestie Chick is a fully womanowned and operated business, specialising in termites, pests and preconstruction work in the Sydney and Central Coast regions.

Now working as a sole trader, Halls is determined to put her pest business on the map, solidifying That Pestie Chick as a reliable and premium service. “Business is going really well, but I do want Pestie Chick to become a recognised name in the pest management industry and termites as well, across the Central Coast and Sydney,” Halls said. Given women make up only a minority

Jessica Halls at work.

your trade, looking after your clients and educating your clients is the biggest thing, let the quality speak for itself,” Halls said. With That Pestie Chick fresh into action, Halls has created a significant point of difference, to set her apart from other pest and termite rivals. “We offer a signature scent spray at the end of each service, a clear point of difference,” Halls said. “It’s optional and complementary for them.” With three scents to choose from, they are formulated to be pet and asthma friendly, clearing away the worries of pest control leaving a smell. That Pestie Chick is accredited across multiple termite systems and

is looking to become a recognised name with builders and construction companies. To get in contact and follow along That Pestie Chick’s journey, visit https://www.instagram.com/thatpestiechick.

WW58997

Jessica Halls has started That Pestie Chick.

of the pest control industry, Halls hopes that her business promotes more women on the job site in such male dominated industries. “They’ve been very male dominated industries, but there’s absolutely no reason why women can’t build a successful career doing the same thing,” Halls said. “I’d love if Pestie Chick can make seeing women on a job site completely normal.” Working across such a large area, Halls gave herself no option other than her leap of faith must work. Putting in the work behind the scenes and on the job site, That Pestie Chick has gained traction since its opening and Halls wants her business to encourage seeing more women in the field. “I’ve given myself no option, it has to work and I’m going to put in the work, and I’d love to see us create more opportunities for women to enter the industry as well,” Halls said. Halls explained leaving the security of her job was scary but advises other women and those in the industry to take the leap of faith. “Just do it, you literally just do it because you’re always going to wonder,” Halls said, “I wondered for such a long time, ‘should I do it?’, ‘should I not?’, and there’s definitely times where I felt like I’ve had to prove my knowledge working with men before being taken seriously.” Halls explained that the best way to break this perception is to “just do good work.” She explains that client care should be at the forefront of a business, letting the clients trust the work you do. “It’s all about turning up, knowing

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

More than just a Sunday stroll KEELY MARSH

amilies and individuals living with the impact of a rare genetic condition will be the focus at a special community event this weekend. The Wiggles and Giggles Walk-a-thon will bring the community together to raise funds and awareness for Williams Syndrome, while providing an opportunity for families to connect and share their experiences. Every step taken and every dollar raised helps Williams Syndrome Australia continue its important work supporting and advocating for the Williams Syndrome community. Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic condition. It can affect development and learning and is commonly associated with cardiovascular issues and distinctive

facial features. People with Williams Syndrome are also often noted for their highly social and outgoing personalities. For the Wiggles and Giggles childcare community, the annual walk-a-thon is much more than raising funds, as it comes from personal connection to the rare condition. “One of the reasons why we did it was because the owner’s daughter was born with Williams Syndrome, so we had a very close connection to that,” Charmaine Coates said. When the walk-a-thon started four years ago, the owner’s daughter was old enough to learn about the condition and what it means to live with it. She learnt what strategy has been in place to help her and what she can do to network with the Williams Syndrome

community and help other people who share her condition. “That’s why the walk-a-thon started,” Coates said. “She became heavily involved in helping us plan it and each year as she get older, she gets more and more involved in things that she can do to help plan and implement on the day.” The walk-a-thon begins from the Currawong Picnic Area trailing around the lake and through the Chinese Gardens within the Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside. “There’s little treasures that the kids can find which keeps all the children engaged and makes it a bit interactive,” Coates said. With a choice of completing one, two or three laps, it doesn’t matter how fast you finish, instead it’s all about coming together, having fun and taking every step

for an incredible cause and community effort. “It’s a chance for everyone to walk, connect and talk about their stories or support people with Williams Syndrome,” Coates explained. “It only affects one in 10,000 people.” Coates explained that every person she has met living with Williams Syndrome has an extremely happy, positive personality. “They radiate happiness and are very in tune with their emotions, always willing to help others,” she said. “Even though they’re facing so many challenges themselves, they constantly are looking out and making sure that everyone else around them is happy and OK.” This year, to make the event wider than just the local community, Wiggles and Giggles have opened it up to a virtual walk as well.

GIVE THEM A CHRISTMAS PARTY THEY’LL ACTUALLY TALK ABOUT!

ALL ABOARD THE NEPEAN BELLE WORK CHRISTMAS PARTIES • CORPORATE FUNCTIONS • PRIVATE CELEBRATIONS

Participants from previous walk-a-thon.

“There are people with Williams Syndrome coming from everywhere, we’ve got people travelling from Newcastle and interstate that are coming to the event,” Coates said. “We wanted to open it up to the people that can’t make it, we would still love their support and involvement if

they did want to attend just virtually.” The walk-a-thon is on Sunday, September 20 from 9.30am-1.30pm. To find out more information, head online and visit https://wiggles-andgiggles-walk-for-williamssy ndrome-australia-2026. raiselysite.com.

Celebrate the year’s wins with a Christmas party that feels like a real escape. Step aboard the iconic Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler and enjoy delicious food, beautiful river scenery and a relaxed celebration on the water. From smaller family, friends and team gatherings to whole-ofcompany celebrations, we make it easy to bring everyone together for a memorable day or night on the Nepean.

POPULAR CHRISTMAS DATES FILL FAST BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY TODAY

WW59353

Call 02 4733 1274 or visit nepeanbelle.com.au 95WW

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

PERFECT CANVAS Chance to explore: Art comes alive in Mulgoa Valley this weekend KEELY MARSH

thing very different because it’s based on their experience.” In a region defined by change, the trail is a timely reminder that some places are worth discovering and worth protecting. The Art Trail will take place on September 19 and 20 from 10am to 4pm. For more details, visit https:// www.facebook.com/mulgoavalleyarttrail.

ver two days, the Mulgoa Valley Art Trail will showcase the work of local artists alongside the landscapes that inspire them. Eight artists including painters, photographers and sculptors will open their working studios to visitors. Here guests can meet the artists, explore their creative spaces, view original works and purchase pieces directly from the artists. Artist Kathleen Dan describes the trail as opportunistic, letting people see the behind the scenes of their creations and spend a day exploring somewhere close to home. “It’s an opportunity to visit working artist studios and look at them working in action and buy some works as well,” Dan said. Rather than presenting art within a traditional gallery, the trail invites visitors into the valley itself. Rural properties, open spaces and natural surroundings become part of the experience, offering a glimpse into the places and landscapes that shape the artists’ work. “The most important thing is it’s a celebration of the local community

Kathleen Dan’s work can be explored as part of the Art Trail.

and the richness and the diversity of the area,” Dan said. You don’t have to be an art enthusiast to enjoy the trail. The trail allows visitors to wander through the studios, meet the artists, stop for lunch at a local café and take in the distinctive rural character of the Mulgoa Valley. As the Western Sydney International Airport prepares to transform the region, the local art trail is offering visitors a chance to discover the creative spirit and rural character of the beautiful Mulgoa Valley. “It’s the juxtaposition of the airport and celebrating the opportunities

that brings, while still maintaining and celebrating the green belt that we have and all the things that come with that,” Dan explained. The Mulgoa Valley Art Trail offers the chance to pause and appreciate what makes this part of the region special – its landscapes, its artists and its community. Dan explained that “we make sense of art in our way,” and that’s the beauty of the art trail. “We all come from our own experience,” Dan said. “There might be people from the Blue Mountains who see something familiar but might also see some-

Need a Justice of the Peace? We’re here to help! For document witnessing and other JP services, come in during business hours: 📞📞📞📞 4761 3210 🕒🕒🕒🕒 Monday- Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm � 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown We’re happy to assist you!

Looking to add value to your home? Let us create your future Granny Flat or Studio Free measure and

quote from your trusted local builder

A John Rice artwork.

DEAR WEEKENDER NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750 Questions but no answers?

I read your recent commentary on One Nation and western Sydney with interest, and I think you have identified an uncomfortable reality for the major parties. One Nation’s growing support should not simply be dismissed as voters moving to the fringe. On a number of issues, Pauline Hanson and One Nation are prepared to say things that many people in western Sydney have been thinking for years: population growth has outpaced housing and infrastructure, government wastes extraordinary amounts of money, major projects cost too much, bureaucracy has become excessive and working families are struggling despite Australia supposedly being a wealthy country. The mistake would be to assume that because One Nation sometimes calls the problem correctly, it necessarily has the answer. It is much easier to say immigration is too high than to design a coherent population, skills, university and housing policy. It is easy to promise lower taxes and cheaper energy while attacking government waste. It is much harder to produce a budget that still pays for hospitals, schools, Medicare, roads, pensions, disability services and infrastructure. That distinction matters enormously if One Nation wants to move from angry protest party to serious alternative government. MARIA DESTRADA, PENRITH

NRL out of touch?

WW58806

Shirley Peters.

www.jkbuilds.com.au jarrod@jkbuilds.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Not everyone is able to afford to attend (NRL must learn lesson from flop Finals crowds, Weekender online). The ticket prices for families make it so expensive, especially

if you don’t fit the standard family tickets (e.g. more than three kids). Apparently the NRL are not aware there is a cost of living crisis going on! FIONA PERKINS, VIA FACEBOOK

Just wait for freebies

Sydney struggles to fill any stadium for sporting events. It is a cultural issue. Unlike Melbourne where families have the kids to the football from a young age. It is more like a religious event for them as they worship their game. Triple M offering up free tickets all last week for games to fill seats. It happens for Origin every year. It is starting to set a precedent. Why purchase a ticket in a big stadium with a high expense when in the days leading up it is known that the NRL will panic and start giving them away. How does that make the people paying to enter feel? AYE MARSHY, VIA FACEBOOK

Airport eye-opener

I was privileged to be involved in the trial airport operations which was very interesting. We have booked our first flight from WSI to the Gold Coast on December 22. It has been quite an effort (at our age) from Werrington to Sydney Airport. Bus to station, train to Central, walk to the airport line platform, get on to the airport domestic line and then walk a bit of a distance to boarding. This I am sure from the trial I attended would be much easier for us. We could get the bus to WSI Airport and get there in half an hour. I hope it will be as we anticipate. ESME EVANS, VIA EMAIL

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space. For more information, see our public notices section.

Australian-made Uggboots with love since 1933 Wrap your feet in true Aussie comfort with Blue Mountains Ugg Boots - an iconic family-owned brand proudly handcrafting Australian-made uggs since 1933. Known for its premium sheepskin boots, cosy slippers and timeless winter essentials, Blue Mountains Ugg Boots blends authentic Australian craftsmanship with everyday comfort. Shop online or in store today

Shop: 515 GWH, Faulconbridge: 8am - 5:30pm 02 4751 1804 | www.uggboots.com.au Factory: Unit 4, 88 Batt St, Jamisontown: 8am - 4:30pm Sat: 9am -1pm (Winter hours)

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

WIN A $250 RINGERS WESTERN VOUCHER

READERSHIP SURVEY HOW OFTEN DO YOU READ THE WEEKENDER?

□ Every Week □ 1-2 times per month □ Less than once a month □ Other (Please specify)

HOW DO YOU MAINLY READ THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

□ Print Copy □ Digital Edition

WHAT DO YOU LIKE READING MOST?

□ Local News □ Sport □ Entertainment □ Extra Time □ Western Property □ Expert Columns □ Puzzles □ Travel □ Special Features □ Connection to Country □ Page 10 □ Everything – I can’t choose one

□ No

WHEN DO YOU USUALLY READ THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

□ Thursday □ Friday □ No set time

□ Over the weekend □ During the week

WHEN CHOOSING WHERE TO SHOP OR USE A SERVICE, HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO YOU THAT THE BUSINESS IS LOCAL?

□ Very important □ Somewhat important □ Not particularly important □ Not important at all

□2 □ 5 or more

WHAT DO YOU FIND THE MOST TRUSTWORTHY LOCAL NEWS SOURCE?

□ Local Newspaper □ National / Metro Newspaper □ Radio □ Television □ Social Media □ Other □ Birth and Funeral notices □ Competitions □ Advertising □ Puzzles □ Discount coupons □ Seniors content □ Kids content □ Automotive content □ Household tips □ Food reviews □ No additional Content □ Other, please specify

□3

PLEASE TICK THE OTHER WESTERN WEEKENDER ASSETS YOU ENGAGE WITH:

□ Website □ App □ Newsletter □ Facebook □ Instagram □ Other social media □ Podcasts YOUR AGE RANGE

□ Under 18 □ 26-35 □ 46-55 □ 66-74 YOUR SEX

□ Male

□ 19-25 □ 36-45 □ 56-65 □ 75 or over □ Female

DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN UNDER 18?

□ Yes

□ No

HOW COULD WE IMPROVE THE WESTERN WEEKENDER? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

HOW FAR WOULD YOU TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF PENRITH TO EAT OR FOR AN EVENT?

□ 15-30 minutes □ Over an hour

□ 30-60 minutes □ Wouldn’t travel

WHERE IS YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY LIKELY TO BE?

□ Within NSW □ Overseas

HOW MANY PEOPLE READ YOUR COPY OF THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

□1 □4

□ Less than 1 year □ 1-5 years □ 6-10 years □ 11-20 years □ More than 20 years

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF IN THE WESTERN WEEKENDER?

HAVE YOU EVER PURCHASED A PRODUCT OR UTILISED A SERVICE AFTER SEEING IT ADVERTISED IN THE WEEKENDER?

□ Yes

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A WESTERN WEEKENDER READER?

□ Within Australia

IS THE WESTERN WEEKENDER ALWAYS AVAILABLE WHEN YOU GO TO PICK UP A COPY?

□ Yes, Always □ Yes, usually □ No, sometimes not □ Hardly ever

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS -------------------------------------------------------------------------

FILL IN AND POST OR DROP OFF TO OUR ADDRESS: WESTERN WEEKENDER READERSHIP SURVEY, 2/42-44 ABEL ST, JAMISONTOWN 2750 The readership survey will close on Friday, December 18 2026. Winner of the $250 Ringers Western voucher will be drawn at random on Friday, December 18. Everyone who completes a readership survey is automatically entered into the competition. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au or from Weekender reception.

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

OUR TOP VOLUNTEER Jacob loves giving back to community

Jacob Gormley and Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh.

“Volunteering can be as small as giving one hour a week,” Gormley said. “There’s a whole governance side, like any organisation, and without governance, the people behind closed doors, most of the things in your community wouldn’t happen.” Gormley encourages young people specifically to get involved with volunteering. “That was the reason I started the club, there was a massive gap,” he said. He saw there was no avenue where young

people could go collectively to be together to give back to the community. “If anyone wants to join, if any other young people want to give back, they can definitely get in contact with us on our social media or through our email address,” Gormley said. To get involved and give back to the community, visit https://www.instagram.com/ nepeanregionrotaract. “We would love to have more young people join,” he said.

RSL NSW

City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch Website: www.penrithrslsubbranch.org.au

Terms & Conditions and registration details:

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

59438

acob Gormley, President of the Nepean Region Rotaract Club, a youth-led community organisation for young professionals and leaders, has been recognised as Outer Western Sydney’s Young Volunteer of the Year. Despite committing so much of his time to volunteering and giving back to the community, Gormley was taken by surprise when he was announced the winner of the award. “It was a shock to me that I got the award, listening to all the other achievements of young people in our community was generally humbling, and when they announced my name, I didn’t believe it,” Gormley said. Gormley, alongside other volunteers across the community dedicate the majority of their personal time to volunteering, with so much work behind closed doors going unrecognised. “It was great to get recognition for the work you do, especially with volunteering, the majority of the work you do is behind closed doors and all these extra hours people don’t see, you know get recognised,” Gormley said. In 2025 there was a fatal stabbing that occurred at a kebab shop in Kingswood involving multiple young people. During that time, Gormley, as the President of the local Rotaract Club, wrote a letter to the Mayor.

“I saw a clear gap in young people being represented and being at the table. It was about raising our concerns of local issues,” Gormley said. The letter gained traction in the media and within a few weeks Penrith City Council announced its plans to establish the Youth Committee, which Gormley is a founding member of. Gormley’s drive to volunteer comes from wanting to give back to the community. Raised in Mt Druitt to a single mother in housing commission, like so many other people, Gormley recognises the struggles that young people, especially himself and his family face every day. “I think that’s at the heart of the majority of the people that volunteer, they want to give back to their community and make it a better place for their families, their friends and future generations,” Gormley said. “The collectiveness when we come together, we can make our community such a great place.” Gormley really started focusing on community two years ago and since the emersion of the Rotaract Club he has started participating in a multitude of local volunteering opportunities. Gormley explained that people tend to look at volunteering as being on the ground, picking up rubbish or planting trees, but there’s so much more to it.

WW59504

KEELY MARSH

LOCAL NEWS

PAST MEETS FUTURE Banks Public School celebrates 40 years with makeshift museum and time capsule KEELY MARSH

anks Public School has celebrated four decades of learning, growth, and community. It was a special moment in history for the St Clair school, acknowledging its strong foundation in 1986 to the vibrant hub it is today. With dedication and hard work Jane Lalor, Assistant Principal, Curriculum and Instruction, brought the community together for a day of celebration. Teachers and students created time capsules to be opened in 20 years’ time (2046) and put together a Banks Public School museum. “Each class put a small amount of objects into a plastic sleeve so that it could be uncovered in 20 years’ time,” Lalor said. “Some kids even wrote a letter to themselves, some wrote about why they love Banks Public School and a teacher even put a Taylor Swift sticker in there.” With the last time capsule being difficult to locate, the school decided to engrave new pavers with the families’ names and curate a new garden, that way students,

Teachers wearing 40 year celebration shirts.

teachers and parents know of the time capsule’s whereabouts. “We heard there was a time capsule already buried here, and we looked and looked and we can’t find it, so we decided that we would do another one,” Lalor explained. “We’re going to have new pavers engraved with families’ names and we’re going to set up a new garden where the time capsule will go under, letting everyone know where it is.” The 40-year celebration also entailed a school museum, displaying photographs and newspaper articles from the past.

Inviting former students, teachers and principals allowed for them to reflect, reconnect and relive their memories from Banks Public School. “In the museum we had the four decades laid out on notice boards with photos,” Lalor said. “We had parents visiting the hall and saying ‘that’s me when I went there in 1990’.” What caught Lalor by surprise was how much the children enjoyed the museum, with students from kindergarten through to Year 6 showing real interest in the photos and memorabilia displayed.

DISCOV DISCOVER O ER A NEW GEM IN ST MARYS MARY RYS TOWN CENTRE!

Students enjoying the museum.

While the school is celebrating such a milestone, Lalor continues to look towards the next 20 years having clear hopes for the future of Banks Public School. “I hope it continues the trajectory that it’s going with the close community that we have, but also the achievement of academics,” Lalor said. “As our kids have been learning, our outcomes have been improving

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

Panther pride on show in Penrith With NRL Finals footy fever upon us, Penrith City Council and the community are proudly backing the Penrith Panthers once again. We are a strong sporting City and the Panthers are fantastic representatives who bring everyone together each week. We congratulate the team on another incredible run in 2026, with 18 wins to round out the season at the top of the ladder. The mighty Panthers put on a masterclass performance against the West Tigers in Round 27, winning 38-10 and claiming another NRL Minor Premiership. It was a nail-biting first week of finals as our team took on the Sydney Roosters, beating them 19-12. Of course, we’ll be cheering the Panthers on again in next weekend’s preliminary final. I always love to see your bright Panthers decorations around town. Council is showing Panther pride by flying flags and banners across the City, and the Civic Centre is lit up in the iconic red, yellow and green colours to show our support. What I value most about the Panthers is the way they bring people together and strengthen the community spirit that makes Penrith so special. Their leadership, resilience and deter-

84 QUEEN ST SSTREET REET WW59319

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

and our data has improved, so I would like that to continue as well.” With a balanced mix of well-being and curriculum Banks Public School focuses on connection with students, teachers, parents and community members, to be at the heart of the school. “They need to feel that they’re valued, cared for, listened to, and I then think that’s why they want to be here,” Lalor said.

mination, both on and off the field, are an inspiration. Like so many of us, the players are part of everyday life in Penrith – doing the school run, enjoying a meal with family and friends – while taking the time to chat with fans. As Mayor, I’m proud that our City encourages active lifestyles and supports the health and wellbeing of our growing community. The Panthers inspire children and young people across Penrith to get active, believe in themselves and chase their dreams. On weeknights and weekends, I love seeing our local sporting fields buzzing with activity — from grassroots sport through to elite-level training and games. We welcome and look forward to more opportunities coming to Penrith next year, as the new stadium opens ahead of the 2027 NRL season. This will literally take the sport and events to new heights and deliver exciting experiences for residents and visitors. Congratulations and good luck to the Panthers – the entire Penrith community is behind you. Let’s go, Panthers!

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

LOCAL NEWS

New Probus club to bring people together EMILY CHATE

missing a place for older residents to connect with one another. “There are a number of clubs out in the west but that was identified as one where there are a number of retirees in the area, and it was thought that it would be a really good place for a new club,” he said. The Erskine Park Probus Club will have its very first meeting on Thursday, October 1 at 10.30am at the Erskine Park Community Centre & Hall. To attend, call 1300 630 488.

Probus clubs are a good way to find connection.

are clubs to provide services to the community, and a lot of their activity is based on fundraising, in Probus there is no fundraising. There are no activities of a service club except we have a monthly meeting.” In addition to the monthly meeting, Probus clubs organise a wide array of different events for members to get together.

“Each club independently arranges whatever they would like to do as far as social activities are concerned that includes lunches, coffee mornings, going to movies, and specifically having trips,” Erby said. “They can be big trips, either four or five days, overseas trips, or just going off and doing something

together on a bus trip. The whole premise of Probus is friendship, and the undercurrent thing of that is we are providing social connection for older people and especially for people who are on their own and who need or require social connection.” Probus South Pacific identified an area in Penrith that they felt was

Vice Chairman Probus Nicholas Erby.

WW59401

new Probus club is coming to Erskine Park, giving local retirees a trusted place to connect and socialise. Probus clubs are a local community social club for retired people that had its beginnings in the UK before making its way to Australia. “Probus came out of Rotary. Rotary formed Probus in England in the mid ‘60s. Rotary clubs in Australia then started to put together Probus Clubs here in the mid-1970s – the first club was opened 50 years ago this year, that’s why we are having our 50th anniversary this year and having a big party year!” Vice Chairman and NSW & ACT Representative Director of Probus South Pacific, Nicholas Erby explained. “We have now built it up to some 1,400 clubs with over 90,000 members in Australia and New Zealand. The basic purpose of Probus is once you’ve retired it is a place for you to go for social interaction. “A Lions Club and a Rotary Club

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Designed for adventures beyond mobile reception, the compact MT620GR alerts emergency services with the user’s precise location and confirms when the distress signal has been received. It’s also waterproof and buoyant, with a seven-year battery life and six-year warranty. Visit www.gme.net.au.

Δ Triple treat: Pizza Hut has this week launched its Triple Treat Box, which takes the classic three-course meal and gives it the Pizza Hut treatment: cheesy breadsticks to start, two large pizzas for the main event and for dessert, a warm, eight-slice Hershey’s Cookie. It’s available from $29.95 pick-up, working out to be less than $10 per course or $7.50 per person. Δ New eatery: 5 Rivers Bistro & Bar will

soon open in Cranebrook. The menu will focus on modern Australian cuisine including woodfire pizza, burgers, breakfast and lunch. An opening date is not confirmed.

Δ Summer menu: New menu items have landed at Panthers with Kelly’s Bar + Kitchen dropping some summer treats. There’s the Crispy Chorizo Bites with hummus, the Mexican Tortilla Bowl and a new Grilled Chicken Burger. There’s also a range of other items being added to the Kelly’s menu, so it’s well worth a visit. Δ Safety first: With solo hiking becoming increasingly popular and the weather now encouraging us to get out and about, we’re being encouraged to ensure safety is a big consideration. GME’s MT620GR Personal Locator Beacon is available for $569 RRP.

Δ Prehistoric doughnuts: Donut King has launched a new ‘PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie’ doughnut range across participating Australian stores, introducing five limited-edition character doughnuts alongside a themed six-pack. The limited-edition collection features Marshall, Chase, Rubble and Skye, along with Rhubarb the Dinosaur, a new character appearing in ‘PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie’. The Chase ring doughnut is vanilla flavoured, while Marshall and Skye are both strawberry-flavoured ring doughnuts. Rubble gets a pineapple-flavoured ring doughnut. Rhubarb is slightly different from the four ring

doughnuts. The Rhubarb the Dino is a strawberry-flavoured dinosaur-shaped doughnut inspired by the character from the movie. The new range is in stores until October 11.

Δ Biscoff heads to freezers: One of the world’s most-loved biscuit brands is entering an exciting new chapter, with the biggest Biscoff frozen launch in Australia to date, arriving in supermarket and convenience freezers nat ionw ide. Rolling out nationally across grocery and convenience stores, the new range introduces two new ways to enjoy Biscoff: the Biscoff Sandwich and the Biscoff 425ml Tub. The Biscoff Sandwich combines smooth Biscoff frozen dessert between two authentic Biscoff biscuits, creating the perfect grab-and-go treat. While the Biscoff 425ml Tub features creamy Biscoff frozen dessert with generous Biscoff swirls and crunchy biscuit pieces, making it perfect for moments of at-home indulgence. Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about store openings, new menus and more! Email news@westernweekender.com.au for your contributions to The Source.

TAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY OFF DRY LAND Forget the function room and take your Christmas celebration to the water! The River Boat Bar is the perfect setting for work Christmas parties and corporate functions, with great food, drinks and plenty of atmosphere. Gather your team, leave the office behind and make this year’s celebration one to remember.

WW59354

Book this year’s Christmas party today! Call 02 4733 1888 or visit theriverboatbar.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

TURNING BACK TIME The Mechanics Institute was situated on the Great Western Highway at St Marys on land belonging to Joseph Sainsbury. It was designed by Penrith architect William Sykes and opened in 1901. It was demolished in 1971. A chemist shop can be seen to the left of the Institute. This photo is from 1968. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS FROM PENRITH’S PAST – INFO@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

Penrith City Council, with funding support from the NSW EPA, is supporting local businesses through the “FOGO in Business” program, a free initiative designed to prepare businesses for these changes and help reduce waste, ˜ˠˣ˥ˢ˩˘ ˘˙Ѓ˖˜˘ˡ˖ˬ ˔ˡ˗ ˟ˢ˪˘˥ ˢˣ˘˥˔˧˜ˡ˚ ˖ˢ˦˧˦ʡ Under the NSW FOGO Business mandates, relevant businesses are now required to:

ʹˢˢ˗ ˢ˥˚˔ˡ˜˖˦ ˥˘˖ˬ˖˟˜ˡ˚ ˜˦ ˡˢ˪ ˔ requirement for many NSW Businesses ˙˥ˢˠ ʥʣʥʩʡ ʼ˦ ˬˢ˨˥ ˕˨˦˜ˡ˘˦˦ ʹ˂ʺ˂ ˥˘˔˗ˬʲ

Separate food waste from general waste;

•

Have a FOGO waste collection service from ʤ ʽ˨˟ˬ ʥʣʥʩʡ

Council would like to help with your transition to FOGO and support your business every step of the way through: •

In-person and online workshops

•

On-site waste assessments

ˇˢ ˥˘˚˜˦˧˘˥ ˬˢ˨˥ ˜ˡ˧˘˥˘˦˧ ˢ˥ Ѓˡ˗ out more information, visit

penrith.city/FOGOinBusinesses WW59458

FOGO in Business Program

•

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

CRANEBROOK VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE • 80 BORROWDALE WAY, CRANEBROOK

There’s something for everyone! T

here’s something special about a local shopping centre that offers more than just convenience. At Cranebrook Village Shopping Centre, three businesses are bringing personality, skill and genuine customer service to the local community – Zue’s Kebab House, Top Kuts Barber and Pearl Nails.

Fresh flavours and friendly service at Zue’s Kebab House For three decades, Eric of Zue’s Kebab House has been sharing his passion for great food. Eric has built his business around a simple

philosophy: fresh ingredients and food made with care means customers who leave happy. Eric makes everything himself and takes pride in creating the best takeaway experience possible. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or satisfying a serious kebab craving, you can expect generous flavours, fresh ingredients and, of course, a kebab served with a smile. There’s also a special offer for readers – bring this page into Zue’s Kebab House and enjoy a $15 lunch special featuring a burger, chips and a drink; a delicious kebab for just $11.50 or add a drink for $15; or some Manoush for $10.

sional services to keep your nails looking beautiful and well cared for. Services include manicures, pedicures, gel and acrylic nails, nail extensions and stylish nail art. They focus on quality, attention to detail, and creating a relaxing experience for every client. Together, Zue’s Kebab House, Top Kuts Barber and Pearl Nails reflect what makes Cranebrook Village Shopping Centre a valuable part of the local community: good food, great service, personal care and friendly businesses that take pride in what they do.

Sharp cuts and expert styling at Top Kuts When it comes to looking your best, Top Kuts Barber has you covered. Whether it is a sharp skin fade, crew cut or zero fade, the team of expert barbers offer a wide range of services for both men and boys. Kids and seniors can enjoy cuts tailored to their needs, while beard trims and line-ups, head shaves, waxing and hair colouring are also on the menu. With attention to detail and a focus on individual style, Top Kuts is a quality destination for anyone wanting to freshen up their look without heading far from home.

Their talent is always on show on their Instagram account, @ topkutscranebrook.

Beauty meets relaxation at Pearl Nails For a little more self-care, Pearl Nails offers the perfect finishing touch. Their talented team creates fresh and detailed sets designed to put a smile on your face every time you look down at your hands. With flawless finishes and a relaxing atmosphere, Pearl Nails provides an opportunity to slow down, unwind and leave feeling a little more put together. Pearl Nails offers a range of profes-

nails & Beauty

pearl

TASTE THE DIFFERENCE AT ZUE’S KEBAB HOUSE

Family mily owned and operated, Top Kuts uts wcases the best inn barberin showcases barbering andd men hairr styling, makingg men fee men’s feel moree con thems 201 confidentt in themselves since 2011.

BOOK YOUR NEXT KUT TODAY!

With succulent Kebabs, saucy Snack Packs, piping hot Pizzas and so much more, you’ll leave Zue’s Kebab House feeling full and satisfied.

Step into Pearl Nails for a fresh set to make you feel new again. Their talented team delivers flawless finishes on every visit.

Everything is handmade with the best quality ingredients, fresh for you.

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM - 9PM

Open 7 days Have a design in mind?

WW59476

Book your next set today!

For everything in one place, choose Cranebrook Village Shopping Centre | 80 Borrowdale Way, Cranebrook

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

BUSINESS MATTERS

FI N A N CI A L LY U NS H A KE A BL E

NEW BATTERY INCENTIVES

UNDERSTANDING GROSS PROFIT

“

or many local businesses, electricity costs are not driven only by how many kilowatt-hours they use. Demand charges, afternoon peaks, refrigeration, air conditioning, machinery and extended operating hours can all increase the bill. From September 1, a new NSW battery activity known as BESS4 was scheduled to provide an additional incentive for eligible small and medium business solarand-battery projects.

Practical strategies. More profit. Stronger businesses.

This may suit workshops, clubs, offices, retail premises, hospitality businesses and light industrial sites that use substantial power late in the day. Solar can supply daytime operations, while a battery can store energy and discharge during higher-cost periods. Depending on the tariff, batteries can also help reduce peak demand. However, a battery should never be sized from the quarterly bill alone. Businesses should use interval data to understand their daily load profile, maximum demand, operating hours and seasonal changes. A smaller battery that cycles effectively every day may deliver better value than a larger battery that regularly sits unused. Business owners should

LORENZO TASSONE Director of Good Earth Group Pty Ltd Penrith Chamber Board Member

also ask installers to show the NSW incentive separately and explain the assumptions behind projected savings, including any switchboard work, metering, network applications and energy-management controls. For Penrith businesses, the opportunity is to treat energy like any other major input: measure it carefully, purchase it strategically and invest only where there is a clear return.

We’re absolutely flat out.” Those four words don’t impress me nearly as much as they used to. You can have the phones ringing, the team working overtime, jobs booked for months and record sales hitting Xero and still be making bugger-all money. Welcome to the wonderful world of gross profit. Gross profit is what you have left after paying the direct costs of delivering your product or service. And yes, service businesses have direct costs too. If you employ people who directly earn revenue; accountants, consultants, technicians, therapists, support workers, tradies or other fee-earning staff; their wages and superannuation should generally form part of your direct costs when you’re measuring gross profit.

Ignore those costs and you can give yourself a very flattering, but completely useless, gross profit number. Imagine two Penrith businesses each turning over $2 million. Business A has a 20 per cent gross profit margin. That leaves $400,000 to cover overheads. Business B has a 40 per cent gross margin. It has $800,000. Same impressive turnover. Completely different businesses. And here’s the trap. If your gross profit is too low, selling more can magnify the problem. More staff. More materials. More admin. More pressure. More risk. Everyone gets busier. Except your bank account. So, forget asking, “How can we sell more?” for a moment.

The Penrith Valley Chamber — where good business meets great people. We connect, support and celebrate the businesses driving Penrith’s growth, shaping a thriving, future-focused economy for the west.

Ask better questions. Which products, services or jobs have our best margins? Which customers are actually profitable? Are labour costs blowing out? Have supplier increases been passed on? Are we discounting unnecessarily? Are our quoting assumptions three years out of date? Then choose one area and investigate it. Know your number. Set a target. Track it monthly. And when it moves, find out why. Because being busy isn’t the goal. Neither is impressive turnover. The goal is making enough gross profit from every sale to build a financially unshakeable business.

Suzanne Walker Clear Path Accounting clearpathaccounting.com.au

Business is Community. Don’t do Business Alone — Come Join Us!

PENRITH | 2016-2026 COMMUNITY CONNECTION IN ACTION

REAL ESTATE

A DECADE OF CONNECTION. A FUTURE OF POSSIBILITY. Celebrating a decade of local relationships, community contribution and trusted property expertise, while helping shape Penrith's next chapter.

IN PENRITH Selling. Renting. Local. Future ready.

Your Business Deserves More Than a Tax Return

David Lipman 0409 663 535 morton.com.au

TEN YEARS LOCAL. THE NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE. Morton Penrith remains committed to supporting the people, businesses and neighbourhoods contributing to the region's continued success.

At Clear Path Accounting, we help ambitious business owners: ✓ Improve profitability ✓ Strengthen cashflow

✓ Make better decisions ✓ Build a more valuable business

Accounting • Bookkeeping • Advisory • Virtual CFO Book your complimentary Discovery Session today. (02) 4739 2700 • clearpathaccounting.com.au

10 Years Serving and supporting the Penrith community

850+ Properties managed across Penrith

$15,000+ Raised and donated to support the local community

59370

Clear advice. Proactive support. Real results.

MORTON PENRITH WW59518

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED

Penrith

LOCAL AIR CON SPECIALIST

Electricians

FREE QUOTES

PENRITH LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

www.mjpainting.com.au

4733 2525

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

Glenmore Park Lic No. 44995C Over 30 years experience

Jason 0417 221 822 • Mark 0417 223 288

Servicing & Repairs

GET $50 CASHBACK ON FIRST SERVICE

4732 4566

0480 838 177 • Kitchens & Laundries

t •$Outdoor VTUPN NBEF JO PVS alfresco areas 1FOSJUI GBDUPSZ ̽ 2IͤFH ͤW RXWV t ,JUDIFOT -BVOESJFT • Wardrobes • Studies t 0VUEPPS BMGSFTDP BSFBT

• Book cases/display cabinets

t 0GýDF 'JU PVUT • Supply and install t 4VQQMZ BOE JOTUBMM • Supply only – flat pack or t 4VQQMZ POMZ o þBU QBDL PS QSF CVJMU UP PSEFS SUH EXLOW WR RUGHU • We organise all trades t 8F PSHBOJTF BMM USBEFT

JOHN NEWHAM ELECTRICAL SERVICES

0414 833 356

Visit our showroom at: +BDL 8JMMJBNT %SJWF 1FOSJUI ] .POEBZ 'SJEBZ BN QN 4BUVSEBZ BN QN -DFN :LOOLDPV 'ULYH 3HQULWK _ 0RQ )UL DP SP 6DW DP SP www.jandlkitchens.com info@jandlkitchens.com www.jandlkitchens.com || info@jandlkitchens.com

FOR SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

RESIDENTIAL

Awnings

Garage Doors & Fittings

58888

59250

WW59250

Chimney Sweeps

• High pressure cleaning

Call Rob 0419 429 627 www.robsappliancerepairs.com.au

Call Phill Dunn 0424 295 421

www.patioman.com.au

Bathrooms

Gardening

WHALE BATHROOMS

Slabs • Paths • Patios • Stencil • Driveways

D & J Concrete Resurfacing & Landscaping ABN: 18342307434

Licence 57232C

COVER UP COVER UP COVER UP

We specialise in concrete resurfacing & landscaping such as spray-on paving, colour sealing, concrete resealing, concrete grinding, non-slip coating, pressure cleaning, concrete garden edging, roof restoration, returfing. Call Darren on 0403 374 216

58932

YOUR CAR, CARAVAN, PATIO & OUTDOOR SETTINGS!

Ph: 0415 944 611 0415 944 661

or Email: djconcreteresurfacing@gmail.com

Need Repairs / Update Pergola

GS!

www.newtekawnings.com.au

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE 59200

Call Bob 0427 905 390

Lic. No. 226190C

www.whalebathrooms.com.au | 0407 417 553

Building Contractors

Newtek Awnings

A1 AAA ARDVARK

• Quality Bathroom Renovations at very reasonable prices • Reliable local experienced renovators FREE QUOTES • PORTABLE BATHROOM HIRE LIC. 180584C

CALL NOW

4722 2998

TO GET YOUR SUPER DEALS

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

58938

r vi c e

Awnings

58977

4722 2998

59194

4721 2500

p Dro

Call Simon 0438 928 807

Turn your items into $CASH$ Sell with us today! $ $

Lic No 20505

Pink & Blue Slips Logbook Service Full Servicing All Work Guaranteed Warranty Safe

INSTALL & SERVICE Replacement of existing doors. Remote control openers fitted from $440. No labour or materials over $5000. Domestic | All work guaranteed

SELL WITH WITH US US SELL

Concrete Contractors

58870

Full Mechanical Workshop Rego Checks LPG & Service

AUTO CENTRE

58940

ORTRANTO P/L

Lic No. 829 19C

Automotive

7 days • Phone 0421 196 041 4578 3259 • rossg2021@icloud.com

57597

Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms, Wooden Decks. OTHER SERVICES AVAILABLE: • Gutter cleaning • House painting • House maintenance • General repairs • Rubbish removal NO JOB TOO SMALL

58524

59072

• Over 30 years experience • Some repairs available • 1st level from $200, 2nd level from $220 – Prompt Service

INDUSTRIAL

Garage Doors NSW

Chimneys Sweep, Flues, Chimney Cooking Stove, Pizza Ovens, etc

We Service: • Cloth Dryers • All Major Brands • Dishwashers • Fridges & Freezers • Electric Ovens • Washing Machines & Stoves

COMMERCIAL

ALL ABOUT

PATIOMAN ROSS GRAHAM

OVER 40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

EM ICE SERV

75$',1* 29(5 <($56 _ 29(5 <($56 75$'( (;3(5,(1&( TRADING OVER 20 YEARS | OVER 40 YEARS TRADE EXPERIENCE

FREE QUOTES ApplianceRepairs

/E7 2E4 CY RG N

PH: 4778 1959

CUSTOM MADE IN OUR PENRITH FACTORY 7JTJU PVS TIPXSPPN BU

Sales, Service Maintenance & Installation

preferredair@outlook.com

Phone and Data

50off

BUDGET GARDEN SERVICE Landscaping, Trimming, Weeding, Turfing, Treelopping, Stump grinding, Paving, Retaining walls, Yard dressing. EXPERIENCED GARDENER FREE QUOTES ~ COMPETITIVE PRICES

58564

For all your air Call John on conditioning needs 0413 421 166

57795

CALL NOW for a FREE measure & quote

24/7 Emergency Services

Seniors/ Pensioners Discount

Mention this ad and get

Michael on 0420 767 706

ABACUS TREE SERVICES & GARDENING Ƥ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ • Creating Landscapes & Garden Surfing • Paving • Retaining Wall • Mulching • Rubbish Removal • Cleaning • Tree Lopping • Stump Grinding Ȉ Ȉ ͙͝

Call Murray 0404 889 907

58063

Ducted & Split Systems

Best Prices & All Work Guaranteed

58935

• Fast Clean Service • Big Or Small Jobs • Interior & Exterior • Fully Insured • Reliable Service • All Work Done Personally • Decorative Finishes • Competitive Prices • Wallpapering

All Electrical Work

Lic Number 273594c

Air Conditioning

Guttering & Spouting

Handyman

Pest Control

RealEstate IF IT’S A PEST PROBLEM WE’LL FIX IT

ENVIROCARE

No job too big or small

5625

4933

3 ABN

ES RVIC 354402C E S DING FER # IRS BUIL ED ROO ING REPAentry p S F r a N OO g, c CE LICE UR R , paintin ENAN

• EXPERIENCED AND LICENSED INSTALLERS • OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Gutt d AL ing an k c o r gyp

LICENCE NO. 226498C

1800 600 760

Roofing

ACCESS Pest Control

Re-roofing

Roof repairs

dĞƌŵŝƚĞ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝƐƚ ͮ ŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂůͬ ŽŵĞƐƟĐ

Roof leak specialists

Guttering and downpipes

Call Peter

0410 737 321

Penrith local

58149

Ph: 9623 7284

EMERSON’S ENVIROCARE CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

59271

O T ks MAIN ALL Y las, dec FOR ering, pergo L GENERAL

58818

• OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES

Total Satisfaction guaranteed we care for your environment 58701

#1 H

X O F Y AND

Commercial • PEST CONTROL Industrial • SANITATION Residential • TERMITE CONTROL emersonsenvirocare.com.au

>> Z ^ ͵ >> W ^d^

Home Improvements

PENSIONER DISCOUNT, COMPETITIVE QUOTES

9833 2006

All Plumbing Work

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

Best Prices & All Work Guaranteed

Kitchens

57796

Seniors/ Pensioners Discount Blocked Drains and Pipes

DEAN BARRY ROOF RESTORATIONS

Mention this ad and get

50off

59241

PENRITH LOCAL PLUMBER

Specialising in Roof Restorations, Repairs & Inspections

/E7 2E4 NCY G R

Lic No: R89317

Call now:

Plumbers

Lic Number 273594c

Free quotes 58941

Ph: 1800 631 711

• Pergolas • Outdoor blinds • Awnings • Patios • Carports • Sunrooms • Decking • Gutter Free Quote

57435

Supply only or can organise installation

58569

• Aluminium Continuous Gutters • Fascia Cover • Aluminium Downpipes

Fully insured

Put a Splash of Colour in your ad Call 4722 2998

Sydney’s Outdoor Living Experts

Deal direct with your local manufacturer

Ph: 0423 017 515

58939

Lic No: 168459C

Stalco Gutters

Experts in All Roof Types TERRACOTTA | SLATE | CONCRETE COLORBOND | ALL METAL ROOFS

EM ICE SERV

ALL ROOF

PH: 4778 1955

For your convenience

50 years experience • Free Roof Inspections • High Pressure Cleaning • Pensioner Discounts Mobile 0409 224 159 or 4733 3208

58819

SUPPLY & INSTALLATION OF GUTTERS, DOWNPIPES AND FASCIA COVERS

PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

WW57796

We accept!

REPAIRS

• Leaking roofs • Broken tiles • Ridge capping • Gutters cleaned

DAVE’S

Fully Licensed and Insured • 10 years Warranty

Handyman Service

Ph Graeme 0466 064 606

FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

0411 883 768 | info@wmbk.com.au

RE-DO KITCHENS

Transforming your kitchen into new by replacing your benchtops, doors, panels. Additional cabinets, pantries and laundry fitouts.

PH MARIO PACE FOR A FREE QUOTE

57960

57744

$0 Call Competitive out fee! rates Simon Manning

PH 042332-5048

RE-DO KITCHENS

FIND US ON

Ph: 0413 212 041

58894

• Roof Tiling / Pointing & ReBedding AND ALL YOUR ROOFING NEEDS •Whirlybirds • Driveway Cleaning • Hedging • Plastering • Concrete Cutting Sealing & Painting • General Handyman Services

Rubbish Removers

58925

WWW.WMBK.COM.AU

57803

0415 312 294

We use fully licensed subcontractors for all work (Licence #212840C)

Licensed Roof Tiler – R75639 Free quotes. Pen disc. 40yrs exp. Insured and all work guaranteed

57787

SPECIALISING IN UNIQUE BATHROOM, KITCHEN & LAUNDRY RENOVATIONS

59341

Handyman

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

WW58896

GARAGE SALES

Taxation Consultants

GARAGE SALE

– Specialist in all individual Tax Returns, Sole Trader, Small Business, NDIS Contractors, B.A.S. – Tax Refunds on the spot (conditions apply)

58810

For 15 years our qualified team at Taxtips Penrith have provided a professional and meticulous service for our vast and growing clientele.

540 High St, Penrith | 4731 2677 penrithadmin@taxtips.com.au

37 Ghera Road Caddens, NSW 2747 Sat Sept 12 | Sun Sept 13 Sat Sept 19 | Sun Sept 20 Flower & Garden Plants Household Items, Furniture, Books, Toys, Tools, Kids Bikes, Building Tiles and Products & many more items

ALL WELCOME

59468

TaxTips Penrith

POSITIONS VACANT

ROYAL HOTEL SPRINGWOOD

220 Macquarie Road ~ Phone 4751 1021 28

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

WW59512

Experienced bistro/functions/food operator required 8 new modern accommodation rooms opening November Contact Jarrod White c/ Royal Hotel, Springwood

WW59462

Business opportunity

CONNECTION to country

A special supplement focused on local Indigenous affairs and services

First Nations Tournament scores a goal

etball Australia and National Indigenous Television (NITV) have announced a new broadcast partnership that will make every match of netball’s annual First Nations Tournament available to watch for free, giving fans across Australia greater access to one of the country’s leading celebrations of First Nations netball. The partnership will provide a significant platform for First Nations athletes and communities, increasing the visibility of their talent while sharing the stories, culture and connections that sit at the heart of the tournament. Fans will be able to watch every match for free, with pool rounds and playoff matches broadcast across SBS On Demand and YouTube. The broadcast started yesterday. Sunday’s medal matches will be the first in the tournament’s history to be broadcast free-to-air, live on NITV from 11.30am AEST on September 20. For Netball Australia, the partnership represents an important step in creating greater opportunities and visibility for First Nations Australians through netball. It also reflects a strong alignment with NITV, whose commitment to telling First Nations stories and creating opportunities for First Nations Australians is shared by the sport’s national governing body.

Medals are up for grabs.

Netball Australia CEO Mark Falvo said the partnership would help ensure First Nations athletes have the platform and profile they deserve. “Visibility matters. This partnership gives First Nations athletes an exciting platform to showcase their talent, their stories and the quality netball being played across our communities,” Falvo said. “We’re proud to partner with NITV, an

There will be plenty of spirit on show at the tournament.

organisation that shares our commitment to growing opportunities for First Nations Australians, and we’re excited that this partnership will give fans free access to every match.” Netball Australia General Manager, First Nations and proud Kamilaroi woman Ali Tucker-Munro said the agreement would help the tournament reach a broader audience while celebrating the strength and diversity of First Nations netball. “The First Nations Tournament is more than a competition. It is a celebration of our culture, community and the extraordinary netball talent that we know exists across our Nations,” Tucker-Munro said. “With every match available free to audiences nationwide, we’re creating a platform where our deadly First Nations women and girls can shine, and where our stories, achievements and leadership can be seen, supported and celebrated. “Through our partnership with NITV, we’re not only expanding access to the tournament, but we’re also helping inspire future generations whilst strengthening the legacy of First Nations participation and excellence in netball.” NITV Head of Indigenous Commissioning and Production Dena Curtis said: “This partnership is an exciting

opportunity to celebrate Blak excellence in women’s sport and showcase the incredible Indigenous athletes from across Australia to a national audience. “When First Nations women and girls see athletes who reflect their communities celebrated on screen, it sends a powerful message about what is possible and the place they have in Australian sport. “We’re proud to partner with Netball Australia to bring these athletes, their stories and their talent to audiences across the country, and to create greater opportunities for First Nations voices to be seen and heard.” Since its inception in 2024, the annual First Nations Tournament continues to play an important role in Netball Australia’s commitment to strengthening pathways and opportunities for First Nations athletes, while celebrating the contribution of First Nations people to the sport. The First Nations Tournament is delivered in partnership with the Confident Girls Foundation, the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria, Suncorp and Priceline Pharmacy, with support from the Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation. View the full tournament fixture and broadcast guide at www.netball.com. au.

Netball’s annual First Nations Tournament is back.

The Blue Mountains www.bluemountainsrecord.com.au

Record

Blue Mountains Record: Your go-to for local news in the Blue Mountains Local Government Area, brought to you by Western Sydney Publishing Group.

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Services and community organisations: Your local guide Health Services

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service www.gwahs.net.au One of Western Sydney’s leading Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations. Provides GP services, chronic disease management, mental health support, child and family health services, men’s and women’s health programs, drug and alcohol support, and community wellbeing initiatives.

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service Penrith www.gwahs.net.au Provides culturally safe healthcare and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the Penrith and Nepean region.

Aboriginal Health Unit www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ Aboriginal-Health Part of Western Sydney Local Health District, delivering culturally appropriate health programs, community engagement and support services across Western Sydney.

Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation www.tacams.com.au Provides comprehensive medical, allied health and preventative health services for Aboriginal communities across South Western Sydney.

Mental Health, Counselling & Wellbeing

Marrin Weejali Aboriginal Corporation www.marrinweejali.org.au Offers counselling, drug and alcohol support, mental health assistance, referrals and culturally safe wellbeing programs for Aboriginal individuals and families.

Aboriginal Counselling Service www.wentwest.com.au Provides counselling, therapeutic support and mental health services for Aboriginal people experiencing personal, family or emotional challenges.

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service – Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program Social & Emotional Wellbeing Program Provides culturally appropriate support for mental health concerns, emotional wellbeing, grief and trauma support, and alcohol and drug issues.

Sydney Aboriginal Family Support Service www.safss.com.au Supports Aboriginal families through parenting assistance, advocacy, family support programs, case management and community development initiatives.

Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation www.baabayn.com.au A highly respected Western Sydney organisation delivering cultural, educational, youth and family support programs while strengthening Aboriginal identity and community connection.

AbSec www.absec.org.au NSW’s peak Aboriginal child and family organisation, advocating for Aboriginal children and families while supporting culturally appropriate child protection and community services.

Legal Services

Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT www.alsnswact.org.au Provides free legal advice, court representation, advocacy and support for Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander people across Western Sydney and NSW.

Western Sydney Community Legal Centre www.wsclc.org.au Provides free legal and social support services for vulnerable residents, including Aboriginal clients seeking legal assistance.

Education & Youth Services Kimberwalli www.kimberwalli.com.au

Australia’s first Aboriginal-owned and Aboriginalgoverned independent school, supporting Aboriginal students through education, culture and leadership development.

National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy www.nasca.org.au Provides mentoring, education, employment pathways and leadership opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

National Centre of Indigenous Excellence www.ncie.org.au Delivers education, health, leadership, employment and community programs designed to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Community & Cultural Organisations

Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation www.srac.org.au Supports Aboriginal communities through cultural programs, advocacy, community engagement and local initiatives across the Penrith region.

Koori Kulcha Aboriginal Corporation www.koorikulcha.com.au Promotes Aboriginal culture, education, arts and community engagement through cultural programs and events.

Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation www.kinchela.org.au Provides healing, advocacy and support programs for survivors and descendants affected by the Stolen Generations

Gunawirra www.gunawirra.org.au Works with Aboriginal families and children through early intervention, health, education and family support programs.

Emergency & Crisis Support

13YARN 13 92 76 | www.13yarn.org.au Australia’s first national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line, available 24 hours a day.

Lifeline 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention service available nationwide.

Aboriginal Health Services & Local Health District Aboriginal Health Teams Available throughout Western Sydney to provide urgent healthcare support, referrals, mental health assistance and family wellbeing services. This list highlights some of the key Indigenousled and Indigenous-focused organisations supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Penrith, Blacktown, Mount Druitt, Parramatta, Liverpool, Campbelltown and the broader Western Sydney region.

STAY HEALTHY AND

STRONG.

Screening for bowel cancer is simple and free. Your free at-home kit is available every two years from age 45 to 74.

Free

90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated, if found early.

scan for more info

health.gov.a

u/nbcsp

Do it for you and your mob. For more information have a yarn with your health professional, call 1800 627 701 or visit

WW59255

indigenousbowelscreen.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

CONNECTION to country

Help is here at tax time

t’s tax time and the Australian Taxation Office have a range of information, guides and supports for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to assist with tax returns. Now is the best time to lodge your tax return and it can be completed and lodged online or by paper, via help from a tax agent or the Australian Taxation office (ATO) Tax Help program. The ATO want to improve economic inclusion and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, businesses and not-for-profit organisations. To do this, they have tailored resources and supports available which include: Indigenous Helpline: You can phone the ATO’s Indigenous helpline on 13 10 30 (8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, except public holidays). You can also get free help from the ATO’s trained volunteers at tax time if your income is around $70,000 or less. Your tax return: When you’re receiving income, you need to lodge a tax return each year. Most people need to lodge a tax return by October 31. A family member or someone you know can help you with your tax return. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages: The ATO provide a range of in-language audio guides, information and

resources in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with their tax returns. Reach Out – Indigenous business support program: Reach Out is an Indigenous business

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by helping them build sustainable businesses. Not-for-profit (NFP) organ isations: If you’re running an NFP organisation, there may be concessions you can claim but you may need to register your

Help is available during the tax time period.

support program that works with Indigenous small businesses to help them meet their tax and superannuation obligations. The program is one of several Australian Government initiatives introduced to increase the economic participation of

organisation first. Your NFP organisation may also have to register for taxes such as GST, FBT and PAYG withholding, depending on the type of organisation and how it operates. For more information and help you can call the Not For Profit information

helpline on 1300 130 248. Tax and Native Title: In 2013, Parliament passed laws that affect you if you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person or an Indigenous holding entity and you receive a native title benefit. This law says certain payments or non-cash benefits which you receive in relation to your native title rights are not subject to tax, including capital gains tax. These laws apply retrospectively to cover native title benefits received from July 1 2008. For more information you can contact the Indigenous helpline on 13 10 30. Offsets and rebates: If you live in a specified remote area or isolated area of Australia, you may be eligible for the zone tax offset. National Tax Clinic: The National Tax Clinic program is an independently run government-funded initiative that supports eligible individuals and small businesses who are unable to access tax advice and assistance due to economic, social or personal factors. ATO Community: The ATO Community online forum is available 24/7 and designed to make tax and superannuation easier to understand. It provides a space where you can ask questions, share knowledge, and discuss your experiences.

(02) 4722 2998 info@wspublishing.com.au 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown NSW 2750 Follow us

New education campaign A

new campaign called ‘School, Let’s Go!’ has been launched to encourage school attendance and engagement for First Nations young people. The National Indigenous Australian’s Agency (NIAA) engaged Wunan Media, a First Nations Media company to develop a range of resources to raise awareness about the importance of attending school and engagement with education for First Nations young people. The campaign materials feature Claymation style characters which have been digitally developed based on real students and community members from the East Kimberly in Western Australia. Wunan Media took this approach to ensure that the campaign would be representative of real people and their real experiences. Elizabeth Cox, General Manager of Education and Employment at the Wunan Foundation shares: “Education is one of the most powerful drivers of opportunity, helping create brighter futures and stronger communities. We hope the ‘School, Let’s Go!’ campaign encourages more

young people across the country to stay engaged in school and the opportunities it can unlock. “I would like to acknowledge the work and encouragement our teams and school staff made on the ground preparing our community member ‘actors’, who made this journey such a fun and exciting project that has a very important message about staying

in school.” A range of videos, posters and images have been developed using these characters to support teachers, families and communities to have discussions with First Nations young people about the importance of engagement with school and the positive outcomes they can experience. The resources tell an important

story in a way that resonates with young people about why school matters. The ‘School, Let’s Go!’ campaign supports the Education Engagement and Attainment Initiatives (EEAI) which is a program funded by the NIAA, to improve school attendance and engagement of First Nations young people. Visit https://www.niaa.gov.au.

A new campaign has been launched to boost attendance at school.

Connection To Country runs across The Western Weekender and Parra News.

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Extra Time Brian To’o celebrates a try last week. Photo: NRL Photos.

1991

2022

2003

2023

2021

2024

SEVEN STRAIGHT PRELIMS! ONE GAME FROM THE BIG DANCE Full coverage inside today

LUKE GARNER POSTER INSIDE ADVERTISEMENT

Lower Mountains AIR CONDITIONING

4735 6411 HEATING & COOLING SPECIALISTS

Showroom: Unit 2/129 Russell St, Emu Plains E: info@Lmac.com.au | W: www.Lmac.com.au

Time to dig deep and finish the year strong. We’ll be behind you every step of the way, cheering from the stands and backing you until the final buzzer.

Keep fighting, keep believing and bring home another win, Panthers!

R E H T N A #P E D I R P www.Lmac.com.au AU 16525 Lic. No. 127921C

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

FE ATURE

Week off a blessing for Cleary NATHAN TAYLOR

anthers coach Ivan Cleary believes his superstar son, champion halfback Nathan Cleary, will be fit to take his place in Penrith’s Preliminary Final team next weekend. The 28-year-old dual Clive Churchill Medallist will be on light training duties over the next fortnight as he recovers from a stress-related bone issue in his foot sustained in Penrith’s thrilling Qualifying Final win over the Sydney Roosters last Sunday. Nathan suffered the injury late in the match and passed his final goal kick onto fullback Dylan Edwards, but remained on the field to finish the game. Speaking immediately after the win, Ivan confirmed to the media that there was “something wrong” with Nathan’s foot but that it would need further examination. On Monday morning, Nathan underwent a scan of the injury, with the results confirming the stress-related bone issue in his foot. In a statement released on

Monday evening, the club said Nathan “will continue to be assessed and monitored by the Panthers medical team”. Speaking with Greg Alexander and Jimmy Smith on SEN Radio on Tuesday morning, Ivan said his son was still in plenty of discomfort and that the week off was a “godsend”. “Nat’s pretty sore… you probably noticed at the end of the game he was pretty uncomfortable,” Ivan said. “It’s so good to have the week off. I’m looking forward to preparing for the Prelim in a couple of weeks.” This isn’t the first time the Panthers have dealt with a foot injury to one of their major stars. During the 2021 NRL Finals Series, it was later revealed that Dylan Edwards was battling a stress fracture in his foot but battled on. In Nathan’s case, it’s not exactly known what is wrong with his foot but that it’s most likely a result of “overuse” according to his father. “Firstly, the injury is definitely the impact of just overuse and all that kind of stuff,” Ivan told SEN Radio. “He kicks a lot, does a lot,

runs a lot, he does the most metres every game that we play. It all adds up.” Ivan said Nathan would be off his feet for at least the rest of this week as he prepares a little bit differently for next weekend’s Preliminary Final showdown against either the Warriors or Knights. “One thing he’s learned over the years is, I know he prioritises actual kicking time. He spends more time now doing mental reps as well,” Ivan said. “So, I think he’s really going to have to lean on that mental side over the coming weeks because he’s going to have to pull back. It’s good that he’s been preparing that way.” Fellow Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo, who’s also recovering from his own serious injury, said he’s feeling much better after back-to-back hit outs against the Tigers and Roosters to test out his ruptured pec. “So far, it’s given me nothing but confidence,” Yeo said after the Roosters game. “It felt better again today than what it did last week, so ideally, I’d rather not have it but that’s the reality at the moment. I’m really pleased.”

Nathan Cleary was injured last Sunday. Photo: NRL Photos.

LUK E PRIDDIS MEDAL

GET YOUR

The Western Weekender Penrith Panthers Player of the Year competition runs throughout the season, with our four experts delivering a 3, 2, 1 rating for the best Panthers players from each Penrith game. The player with the most votes at the end of the season is crowned our Player of the Year.

MERCH TODAY

Scan here!

LAST WEEK’S POINTS: PANTHERS VS ROOSTERS

footy club

NATHAN TAYLOR: 3 – DYLAN EDWARDS | 2 – LIAM MARTIN | 1 – ISAIAH PAPALI’I Book a

TROY DODDS: 3 – DYLAN EDWARDS | 2 – ISAIAH PAPALI’I | 1 – NATHAN CLEARY

FREE

in-home consultation to take advantage of this deal

PETER LANG: 3 – DYLAN EDWARDS | 2 – LIAM MARTIN | 1 – BLAIZE TALAGI LUKE PRIDDIS: 3 – DYLAN EDWARDS | 2 – ISAIAH PAPALI’I | 1 – BLAIZE TALAGI

TODAY!

1st

Nathan Cleary

120 6th

Lindsay Smith

2nd Dylan Edwards

7th

Liam Martin

3rd

Thomas Jenkins

8th

Paul Alamoti

4th

Isaiah Papali'i

9th

Isaah Yeo

5th

Brian To'o

42 10th Liam Henry

HUGE SPRING SAVING

FR UPGRADES

GET IN QUICK - SEPTEMBER ONLY!

WW58128

Current Ladder

● Additions ● Alfrescos ● Carports ● Decks ● Extensions ● Patios ● Pergolas ● Rooms MARKET LEADER | SINCE 1959 | FAST QUOTES | QUALITY WORK | FULLY LICENSED & INSURED

Showroom: 236-238 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains Contact us: 1300 659 276 or hicraft.com.au

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

PHOTO SPECIAL

Sunday special: Panthers make it P enrith’s win over the Roosters on Sunday was one for the ages, and the photographers from NRL Photos captured plenty of the magic....

Fans enjoy the day out.

The Pantherettes celebrate a try.

Dads first: Liam Martin and Spencer Leniu.

Getting into the Finals spirit.

Happy Panthers fans celebrate a big moment in the game.

Nine’s Brad Fittler soaks up the atmosphere.

Fans show their love for the Panthers.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Nathan Cleary takes a field goal shot.

PHOTO SPECIAL

a day to remember

Fans cheer for the Panthers.

The boys arrive at CommBank Stadium.

Family time for Isaah Yeo post-game.

Scott Sorensen with his family post-game.

Celebrating a crucial try.

Fans, friends and family celebrate.

Nathan Cleary meets with fans.

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

MATCH PRE VIE W S

Four top teams will become two the competition all the way, but just couldn’t seal their opportunities when it mattered. ROOSTERS V SHARKS Still, this is a Roosters team coming Saturday 7.50pm off four straight losses. To turn that @ Allianz Stadium form around in the most important Week two Finals are always an game of your season is a huge ask. intriguing prospect. You have one Cronulla did enough to get past the team coming off a win and feeling Cowboys last week but to suggest it buoyant, and the other, while a top was impressive would be being too four side, coming off a loss and now generous. It was the worst game of doubting themselves. the weekend and clearly exemplified The Roosters can take a lot out the dodgy form both sides had been of their 19-12 loss to Penrith last in over the final month of the regular Sunday. They took the best team in competition. Still, they did look better with Braydon Trindall back in the halves and he’ll be better for the run, though that shoulder clearly isn’t right. In the end Cronulla’s completion rate got them home last week. At 82 per cent, they were well in front of the Cowboys at 64 per cent and were able to dominate possession enough to get the points. I’m expecting Can the Sharks knock out Easts? Photo: NRL Photos. this to be a

TROY DODDS

high quality game. With seasons on the line, both teams will throw everything at this. In the end, the Roosters should have too much experience here. But it’ll come down to whether Trent Robinson can guide his team out of its mental slump as much as its on-field one. Tip: Roosters by 8. WARRIORS V KNIGHTS Sunday 4.05pm @ Eden Park My big issue with the Warriors over the last six weeks or so has been their ability to play for the full 80 minutes.

The defensive lapses have been a big issue, and at times against the Dolphins last week their minds just appeared to be elsewhere. Newcastle come into this game on the back of an upset win over South Sydney that again defied expectations and showed just how tough and resilient this team has been under Justin Holbrook. The Knights have faced so much adversity in the back end of the year and have still turned up every week and played above themselves. They’ll rate themselves a big chance here given they took the War r iors all the

way just a month ago and had 12 men for much of the contest. While the Knights deserve so much praise for what they’ve achieved so far, I’m struggling to find a path to victory for them here. In front of what will be another huge crowd at Eden Park, I can’t see the Warriors going out in straight sets – even though I don’t think they’ll get past Penrith in a Preliminary Final. The big question mark over Andrew Webster’s side is if it has run its race. After a long, successful and at times arduous season, are they running out of puff? Tip: Warriors by 10.

The Warriors went down to the Dolphins last week. Photo: NRL Photos.

Face in the C r

RUNNYMEDE LAWYERS

owd

Building genuine local relationships. Straight advice from lawyers who live and work here.

Commercial Law Business sales, leases, contracts,, structuring g

Property Law

IS THIS YOU?

Conveyancing, developments, lan and transactions

Is this you at a recent Panthers game?

Estates Law

If it is, you’ve won a $100 Rusty Penny voucher thanks to Rusty Penny Brewing. To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor. WW59498

Wills, probate, powers of attorney, estates es

SPEAK WITH A L O C A L L AW Y E R T O D AY

runnymedelawyers.com.au

(02) 9166 3716 Shop 3, 120 Mulgoa Road, Jamisontown NSW 2750

Extra Time Issue Number 2026-029 PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au WRITERS Nathan Taylor, Peter Lang, Emily Chate ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 4722 2998 / sales@westernweekender.com.au

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 17, 2026

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with The Masked Panther

Members tradition axed Fuelling Edwards: We know where Dylan Edwards is getting all that endless energy from. We spotted the Panthers fullback at El Jannah, Guzman y Gomez and Lewers Cafe within the space of three days last week. Clearly the cuisines of Penrith are keeping him going. Corporate view: Sponsors of the Panthers got their first look at 2027 hospitality packages last week, with a special function organised by the club at the Western Sydney Conference Centre. There’s no less than seven corporate spaces available next year, ranging from suites to lounges and terrace areas. It’s a far cry from the old Penrith Park where corporate options were generally pretty limited. Despite the hefty price tag, hospitality options at Helloworld Stadium are expected to be extremely popular.

Cards get the flick: I’m getting plenty of feedback from Panthers members unhappy at the club’s decision to not have traditional members cards next season, instead offering a digital card. It’s a small issue in the big scheme of things but the disappointment is understandable. Many fans have collected their cards for years, and see it as an important part of membership. Apparently it’s about offering a more sustainable option. But I’d ask one thing: who did the club consult with before making the call? Or did they make the decision on members’ behalf? The membership packs for 2027 are pretty lacklustre overall. There’s very little to proudly show you’re a member. No card and lanyard, no members cap. Other clubs still produce members caps and cards, along with other specific membership merch.

Commbank farewell: It came with little fanfare or acknowledgement, but Penrith’s time at CommBank Stadium came to an end with Sunday’s win over the Roosters. The club’s Preliminary Final will be played at Accor Stadium and the side will be back in Penrith for the start of next season. The club is working with the NRL towards having an opening round blockbuster at the new Helloworld Stadium. It’s not talked about enough, but for Penrith to win the Minor Premiership and reach back-to-back Preliminary Finals while playing away from home has been an extraordinary achievement. Kudos to the fans who made the trek to Parramatta for the last two years – it hasn’t always been easy.

Sip of success: Panthers Leagues Club has launched a range of footy-themed cocktails available on game days. There’s the Long Island Iced To’o, the Blue Cleary, the Edwards Express, the Golden Yeo and the Casey’s Corner Post. The delicious concoctions are available from Squires, The Basement and Lakeview.

Mr Popularity: Nobody is more popular in the Penrith team than Nathan Cleary, as evidenced by the swarm of kids (and adults) wanting his autograph post-game on Sunday. Clearly spent plenty of time taking selfies, signing autographs and chatting with fans.

footy club

Cleary injury worry: The Panthers were unsurprisingly playing their cards close to their chest on Nathan Cleary’s foot injury this week. They’ve said he’s suffering a “stress-related bone issue”, careful not to use the word ‘fracture’ and give too much away. While Cleary is expected to play in the Preliminary Final next week, I’m told he’ll do so with plenty of pain. He’ll need a moon boot in the lead-up and his training will be

extremely limited. It’s not ideal, but Penrith have experience with this – it’s similar to the Dylan Edwards injury back in 2021. Lower grade deciders: Penrith have qualified for the Grand Final in both the NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg. Both sides will have the week off this week while they await their opponent. The Cup side beat the Knights 44-20 at Leichhardt Oval last week, while the Jersey Flegg side won a crazy encounter 32-28.

Luke Priddis Medal: The Western Weekender has re-named its Extra Time Player of the Year award the Luke Priddis Medal. It’s in honour of Priddis being Penrith’s first ever Clive Churchill Medal winner, and his ongoing commitment and passion for the club. Priddis is also on the voting panel of the award alongside Weekender journalists. Nathan Cleary currently leads the race for the honour this year, with Dylan Edwards close behind. You can see past winners and more details at www.panthersnews.com.au. Spotted: We noticed the big screen being carried into Helloworld Stadium earlier this week, while seating has started being installed.

footy club

Bennett Property is a fourth-generation fatherand-son run agency, located in the heart of the Hawkesbury region. Our award-winning team is focused and eager to deliver the best possible service to you!

“Nobody does it better” We are not going todoing rest on our rather continue to keep what we laurels but rather continue to do best which is working with our valued customers in realising their estate keep doing what we doreal best dream. which is working with our valued customers in realising their Real

Contact the team today at Estate dream. 4732 2322 or penrith@ljhooker.com.au

Contact the team today at 4732 2322 or penrith@ljhooker.com.au

57635

Take therisk risk and worry out of real your Take the and worry out of your Real Estate experience with estate experience with L J Hooker Penrith! LJ Hooker Penrith! Even after 40 years, L J Hooker is setting Even after 40 years, LJ Hooker the standard for Real Estate in the Penrith isarea. setting the standard for Real Estate Penrith We arein notthe going to restarea. on our lorels but

02 4578 1234 2/314 High Street, Penrith |

penrith.ljhooker.com.au

239 Windsor St, Richmond

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER S POS TER 40

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

Function enqui

h.city tions@penrit ries - galleryfunc

GO THE MIGHTY PANTHERS!

PATIOS | OUTDOOR BLINDS | SCREENS 0416 872 789 | YOUROUTDOORPATIO.COM.AU

panthers poster

The BEST local paper

As seen in

nder.com.au westernweeke .au 4722 2998 | weekender.com sales@western

illia ntho mes

BEFO RE

brill iant hom es

YOUR REBU LOCA CRAF ILDING L BUIL DE TI YEAR NG HOMDREAM R NEW S OF EX ES W S & PERT ITH 60 DUAL HOM ES IS LIVI NG, , DUPL E IN & AD GRAN EXES. NY DITI ONS FLATS @br

7729

per

CON TAC T

al pa

en in T loc

u 88 60

post

BES

he rs

.com .a

pa nt

As se Th e

4722 2998 | westernweekender.com.au sales@westernweekender.com.au

www.westernweekender.com.au/panthersposters

download posters you may have missed at

pant hers post

The

n in per BE ST local pa

As see

TOD AY!

EB UIL DS PE CIA

FRO BRIL M LIA FOU N NDAT T RIS ION E BR S ILLI 1ST ANT FLO O ADD ITIO R KN R NS OC EN & K D OVA TIO OW NS N

AFTE R

LIS T |

CU STO

ME S |

.au

DU PLE XE S&

s.c om

GR A

pos

DIT ION S

al p

LO OR

1ST F

ter

LA TS |

UIL

t he

pa n

As see eB n in ES Th

w.b rill ian tho EW

DE SIG NN

ES T 19

29 sale 98 | wes s@w este ternwee rnw eeke kender.c nder om.a .com u .au

4722

22 2 sale 998 s@ | w we este ste r n w r n we ee eke ke nd nder. er. co com.a m.a u u

ANALYS IS

Blaize of glory: Never say die T Lang on

League

He ran down and celebrated with his teammates who embraced him. Talagi was back where he belonged, in first grade. Now I have to declare that no one officially at Panthers ever said that Talagi was not going to be at Penrith next year. But the drums were beating that he had run his race, especially when Jack Cole, who is off to the Perth Bears in 2027, was picked ahead of him at five-eighth. Coach Ivan Cleary, who had dropped Talagi six weeks earlier, couldn’t wipe the smile off his face in the post-match media conference. “I’ve got to rap Blaize,” he said. “He never put his head down, he kept turning up each day with a good attitude and he’s someone who just attacks the game. “He always has and ultimately, he came up with a huge defensive play on Hugo (Savala) forcing the drop the ball and allowing ‘Bizza’ to score the winning try.” Even co-captain Isaah Yeo gave a subtle nod of respect when a journalist praised Talagi’s performance during the game. With Jett Cleary coming to the club next season and Jack Cogger still on the books, many wondered where Talagi would fit in.

56538

with Peter Lang

hey say there are moments in life which can make or break you. Not an hour, a day or a week but a moment, a second. For Blaize Talagi, his moment came with just three minutes and six seconds left on the clock against the Roosters on Sunday. That’s when Talagi chose to sprint out of the line and put pressure on Chooks five-eighth Hugo Savala who was about to throw a pass. Seeing Talagi run at him, instead of looking at who he was going to pass the ball to, Savala looked at Talagi and rushed the pass. With three minutes and four seconds left on the clock once Talagi made contact with Savala, the game was over for the Roosters, and the man who had been dropped for his defensive deficiencies, had pulled off a game-winning play for the Panthers. In two seconds, Talagi made a tackle that not only won Penrith the game but probably saved his career at the Panthers. Two seconds. That’s all it took. By the time Brian To’o scooped up the ball which was fumbled by Billy Smith and scored under the posts to make it 17-12 for Penrith, Talagi had got to his feet and was cheering.

NORMAN’S

Blaize Talagi was strong against the Roosters. Photo: NRL Images.

Coach Cleary may have given a hint when he revealed that since he was dropped, Talagi had been doing a lot of training at centre but that the 21 year-old also didn’t mind where he played. So, what did Talagi say to Cleary when he was told he would be back in first grade, playing centre in a

Qualifying Final after being out of the team for so long? “Blaize kind of looked at me as if to say, ‘what took you so long?’,” Cleary revealed. Six weeks out of the first grade is a long time. Especially, if you count it in seconds.

24/7 Reptile Removal

SCRAP

METALS

Free Call 1800 225 235

NEW & USED STEEL BOUGHT & SOLD 42

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 17, 2026

OPEN 7 DAYS MOST PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

WW59046

$$$$ buyers of all Ferrous SYDNEY - 9748 0611 PENRITH - 4732 1683 34 PEACHTREE ROAD, PENRITH FAX - 4721 7658 and Non-Ferrous Metals (Off Castlereagh Road) 6 BLIGH STREET, AUBURN PICK-UP SERVICE AVAILABLE

WW59052

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

THE Y S AID IT. . . “My own take was that it was a penalty and wasn’t a sin bin at all. We can’t take the contest out of the game and naturally, under high pressure there’s going to be accidents that happen. Unfortunately it has become so complicated with the terminology over different rules in the game... for mine it’s a penalty, it’s not a sin bin.” Andrew Johns on the Nathan Cleary incident

“I think they should play three games of footy there a year.” Phil Rothfield on Shark Park’s future

“The Panthers are the definition of whatever it takes defensively. The amount of times they have someone in the picture to make a desperation tackle or a try-saving tackle is insane.” Chad Townsend

“It feels really good. It was a bloody tough game and the Roosters are a great outfit. Still got two to go...” Nathan Cleary on the win over the Roosters

“I’ve got to rap Blaize. He’s never put his head down. He’s kept turning up each day with a good attitude and he just attacks the game, he always has.” Ivan Cleary on Blaize Talagi’s return

“It was a good contest. Both teams were in there fighting.” Roosters coach Trent Robinson

“I think the Cronulla players gave their fans an excuse to stay home.”

“I’ve never seen a bloke with that much energy. He is just unbelievable.” Steve Roach on Dylan Edwards

Gorden Tallis

SCOREBOARD Missed last week’s results? Here’s a rundown of what happened in key Penrith Panthers games...

NRL PANTHERS

Tries: L Martin, D Edwards, B To’o Goals: N Cleary 3/3, 1 FG

PANTHERS

4731 6311 At Penrith Muffler Mart & Tyre we specialise in: • Towbars • Tyres and Wheels • Brake Repairs • Pink and Blue Slip insp.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Tries: M Nawaqanitawase, R Toia Goals: H Savala 2/3

KNIGHTS

Tries: J Schiller 2, C Votano, W De Courcey Goals: C Cotano 2/4

JERSEY FLEGG PANTHERS

WW58203

• Budget Mufflers • Exhaust Systems • Car Servicing • Mechanical Repairs

Tries: J Edgar 3, Z Clarke 2, K Falls, J Liddiard, N Murphy Goals: Z Clarke 6/9

7/33 York Rd Jamisontown

ROOSTERS

NSW CUP

58699

footy club

Tries: C Kanaan 2, H Loza, H Wald, L Latu, D Feltham Goals: K Raven 3, H Bell 1

DRAGONS

Tries: T Rumble 2, K Andrews, B Carmichael, C Heidke Goals: M McClaren 4/5

BEHIND THE GAME

Calm, collected and focused on tomorrow Emily Chate with

EO of Football at the Penrith Panthers we had scored or not. I struggle to live in the Matt Cameron gets home from each moment, even when watching the game, I’m game and rewatches it on TV. sitting there thinking after the game, I’m going His game day will usually start over to do this or tomorrow I’ve got to do that.” at the Northern Beaches before he heads into Throughout the week, the CEO spends a lot of CommBank Stadium. his time looking into where the club will be in “It’s actually an enjoyable day for me because a few years’ time, leaving a lot of the day-to-day if we do everything right there shouldn’t be any business to others. running around like a lunatic on game day. “If I said to you there were 10 things on my It should be very controlled,” Cameron told desk as I look at it now, nine of them have nothBehind the Game. ing to do with this year,” Cameron said. “I get to the game two hours before kick-off, “It’s all about the stadium, next year’s roster, I go upstairs and check the Board’s box just to budgets for next year, staffing hires for next make sure that everything is good there and year, or projects that we are trying to undertake then usually I do a walk through the corporate for next year. areas just to make sure that everyone’s signs are “I have this saying that I use – the coach is up and all that sort of stuff. about today, the General Manager is about “On a game day, I’ve usually got to take some today 12 months from now, and my job is about corporate partners, fans, special guests and today three years from now.” that sort of thing down onto the field for the Cameron ended up at the Panthers after NRL warm-up. Then I’m back up and sit in the beginning his career as an NRL Assistant Coach Board’s box to watch the game. at the Parramatta Eels. “I don’t go down to the sheds at half-time, but “My background is in coaching, I coached a I usually go down to the field and congratulate the boys at full-time. I’ll very briefly stick my head in the dressing room and sometimes go to the press conference with ‘Blokky’ (Panthers Media Manager Michael Blok) depending on if there is anything contentious that has gone on in the game.” After dinner with his wife and friends, Cameron heads home and will rewatch the game on TV. “It’s because you’ve got people talking to you while you’re at the footy, which is great… but you sort of tend to be distracted,” he explained. “I’ll always go home and watch it there. It’s very different what you see at the game to what you see on TV with the expert commentary.” When watching the game, you wouldn’t know Cameron is so involved in the side – he is often perceived as calm and completely collected. “Because of the coaching background you become quite analytic. You go, ‘why did he do that?’ Or, ‘he missed that tackle’. You don’t watch it as a spectator,” Cameron said. “I must admit if you were sitting next to me at the football and you couldn’t see the game you wouldn’t know whether Penrith Panthers CEO Matt Cameron.

Penrith Panthers CEO Matt Cameron. Photo: Melinda Jane.

lot of lower grade football and eventually I was the NRL Assistant Coach at the Eels from 2006 until 2012,” Cameron began. “Then, I came to Panthers in a more administrative role looking after pathways like player development and that sort of stuff. Then that sort of morphed into the GM of Football role… Brian [Fletcher] was the Group CEO when we were building the hotel and all that other stuff, his attention was very club and hotel centric, so I then was offered the role of just looking after football, the CEO of Football. It’s a lot of being in the right place at the right time.” As for the side’s star halfback Nathan Cleary, who injured his foot in the most recent game against the Roosters, Cameron says he is looking good to be fit for the upcoming Preliminary Final. “He was in today having a bit of physio,” Cameron said. “I think he is alright, he’s walking on it. I think it’s sore… 10 days from now I think he’ll be fine.”

Quick Questions Coffee order: Doesn’t drink coffee

Cheat meal: Mad Mex

Favourite movie: ‘Big Wednesday’

Favourite musician: The Black Crowes

Who did you support growing up? South Sydney Rabbitohs Pet peeve: Inefficiency and timewasters

LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER MEMORIES

WW59523

The Penrith Panthers were ‘back in black’ for the 2000 season, introducing a brand new jersey that totally re-shaped the club’s brand. The Panthers had moved away from their traditional jersey and colours in 1997 when they joined Super League. For the 1997, 1998 and 1999 seasons the team stuck with a black, white and red jersey that had little love from fans. In 2000 they launched a ‘back in black’ campaign and released an almost entirely black playing strip, with red, white and teal stripes. The club did not have a major sponsor for the 2000 season, so the jersey was particularly striking with no branding across the front. By the time 2001 arrived, the Sanyo logo was displayed across the front. While there’s been plenty of new jerseys, colour shifts and changes since 2000, the Panthers have largely stuck with black being their primary colour and theme ever since.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Available until 11:30am

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

WW59412

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

ENTERTAINMENT MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND MORE – PENRITH’S LEADING ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

IT’S SHOW SEASON

MADELINE DANTIER

xecutive Producer Clint Salter is the creative mind behind the brand new show ‘Season Squad’, coming to inject some energetic fun into kids and parents alike at The Joan this school holidays. “We’re a brand new company and we formed really to do this show. This was the original concept from Clint... he had this idea for this show and he wanted to produce it himself, so he formed Wonderlane Entertainment,” producer Amy Matthews said. Centering around the magical town of Calendar Grove, we meet Sunny, Chill, Blaze and Bloom, guardians of the seasons. Each responsible for keeping the seasons

turning each year, these fun loving characters keep the world in perfect balance. That is however, until Sunny convinces the others to abandon their seasons and keep the world in perpetual summer. Before too long, chaos ensues and the seasons must work together to restore the balance before it’s too late. Teaching the value of teamwork and friendship through song and dance, this show promises to pull on the heartstrings while keeping the groove going. But fear not parents, you might just find yourself dancing along as much as your little ones. “It’s designed to be appealing to the whole family. The songs are written by Jason Pennock and Matt Wong, and they’ve written songs for Disney, Nickelodeon, Netflix... really popular style of songs and really in at

the moment with the kids,” Matthews said. “At its core it’s about friendship and identity, and really is just showing that everybody has their place, no matter if you’re more showy like summer or if your vibe is just chill and you’re more relaxed...you belong in the grand scheme of things.” With high-energy dances, catchy pop songs and plenty of laughs to be had, ‘Season Squad’ is the ultimate show for not only a good time, but to add a little science into the school holidays. “It’s a lovely story with a bit of science and geography in it as well, about the importance of seasons turning and what each season does for the Earth,” Matthews explained. “I think the music is really the heart of this show and really drives the story. The sing-

ing and dancing in turn will be spectacular, but those writers are top tier, they’ve written some big hits. I think people will come out singing the music and having the music stuck in their heads for a while.” Wonderlane Entertainment chose to debut their company with ‘Season Squad’ so families could experience the magic of live theatre together and create lasting memories. They are also looking to expand their catalogue in future. ”Not just for kids, but for adults as well, and more music based dance shows as well. So, watch this space,” Matthews said. ‘Season Squad’ is playing at The Joan on Tuesday, October 6 and Wednesday, October 7. Tickets are available online at www.seasonsquad.com.au or via thejoan.com.au.

THE new home for job listingS in penrith www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

WW59326

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

THINGS TO DO Twilight Tunes in Penrith

Phantom – A Tribute to Michael Crawford

Author Event: Monica McInerney in conversation

Join in this Thursday night for an evening of live music, delicious dining and a vibrant after-dark experience. Twilight Tunes takes place every Thursday night in September from 5pm at Memory Park in Penrith. Don’t miss an invitation to discover something special in your city. There’s nothing quite like live music in spring.

This unforgettable concert explores Michael Crawford’s extraordinary career, featuring music from his most iconic stage musicals and multi-platinum recordings. Audiences will be swept away by beloved classics including ‘The Music of The Night’, ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ and more. Performing on Sunday, September 20 at Panthers. Tickets available online.

Join bestselling author Monica McInerney in conversation discussing her latest book, When Sullivan Met Lola, at Penrith Library on Tuesday, September 29. A warm, funny and moving story about unexpected friendship, lost loves and family secrets, the event begins at 10.30am and tickets are $5 at https://events.humanitix.com/author-event-monica-mcinerney.

BARGAIN BUYS

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au. Penrith CBD Corporation Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am. All new members welcome.

volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of the month. 9.45am for 10am at Jordan Springs Hub. Call Keith on 9713 9038 for details.

Penrith NASHOS Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL from 10am. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

Ropes Crossing Probus Club Meets every third Monday of the month at Ropes Crossing Community Hub from 10am. Email ropescrossingprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club Community fundraisers for The Smith Family. Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

South Creek Probus Club Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Seniors Dance Club (Over 55s) Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Call Glenda for details on 0421 322 846.

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Call Trish on 0421 414 012.

Probus Club of Nepean Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club. New members welcome. Call 0417 267 866. Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club Meets on the fourth Monday of the

Red Cross Penrith Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and

Nepean Food Services Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au. Free food shop 9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith. JP service Located in Western Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway.

0408 412 708 for more information. Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700. Arms of Australia Inn Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594. Penrith Carer Support Group First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160. Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River. Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499. Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

LOOKING FOR A JOB IN PENRITH? www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Something for everyone

‘WOLF’ AT THE JOAN

W The Rocks • Northmead • Beverly Hills • Darling Square

chic and savage. Performers grasp, climb, leap, balance and collide in a high-energy spectacle that challenges the boundaries between circus, theatre and dance. For western Sydney audiences, ‘Wolf’ offers the opportunity to experience Circa’s internationally acclaimed contemporary circus right here in Penrith. The company has performed in more than 60 countries and is recognised as one of Australia’s leading contemporary circus companies. With its combination of jaw-dropping physical feats, powerful visual theatre and a soundtrack that demands attention, ‘Wolf’ promises an exhilarating night our for audiences aged 12 and over. Tickets are available via www.thejoan. com.au.

WW58597

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • DESSERT

orld-renowned Australian circus company Circa is bringing its ferocious new production, ‘Wolf’, to The Joan this October. Audiences can experience the raw power, breathtaking acrobatics and primal energy of ‘Wolf’ when it takes over the The Joan’s Q Theatre on Wednesday, October 7 and Thursday, October 8. Created by Circa’s Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz, ‘Wolf’ transforms 10 world-class circus artists into a wild, untamed pack, pushing their bodies to extraordinary limits through acrobatics, movement and physical theatre. Described as “circus with fangs”, the production explores the wolf as a symbol of our untamed selves – liberating, anar-

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

COUNTRY CORNER

Ella leads CMA nominations Country music superstar Ella Langley’s year just keeps getting bigger. Not only is her song ‘Choosin’ Texas’ breaking records left, right and centre, but she has now received a stunning nine CMA nominations. She leads the pack, followed by Miranda Lambert with seven nominations and Kacey Musgraves and Ben West with five each. Langley is nominated for Entertainer of the Year alongside Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Staple-

ton and Lainey Wilson. Her album ‘Dandeloin’ is nominated for Album of the Year and is the clear favourite to take home the gong. Langley has two nominations in the Song of the Year category – ‘Be Her’ and ‘Choosin’ Texas’, with the latter expected to win. She is also nominated for Best Female Vocalist alongside Megan Moroney, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson and Kacey Musgraves. The nominees for Best Male Vocalist are Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Zach Top and Stephen Wilson Jr. New Artist of the Year nominations include Avery Anna, Carter Faith, Emily Ann Roberts, Tucker Wetmore and Stephen Wilson Jr.

being Luke Bryan – it’s his type of country and he hasn’t swayed away from it at all. In fact Bryan is likely laughing all the way to the bank given the huge popularity he still has in an ever-changing country landscape ‘Signs’ probably won’t be winning any big awards over the next year, but if you’ve liked Luke Bryan’s previous music, you’ll probably give this one the tick of approval.

Luke’s back Luke Bryan will release his new album ‘Signs’ on Friday. Bryan has been copping it lately for a few of the tracks from the album – including ‘Fish Hunt Golf Drink’ which some have labelled one of the worst country songs of all-time. Truth is this is Luke Bryan

Track of the Week CMA New Artist of the Year nominee Emily Ann Roberts hits it out of the park with ‘Jack & Jill Daniel’s’. Give it a listen!

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK EVERY EVER EV ERY ER Y WEDNESDAY WEDN WE DNES DN ESDA ES DAY DA Y Quizmasters Trivia from 7pm EVER EV EVERY ERY ER Y TH THUR THURSDAY UR RSD SDAY AY

Weekly Meat Raffle from 6pm Cornhole Comp from 7:30pm FRIDAY FRID FR IDAY AY - SUNDAY SUN NDA AY Live & Local Music

4/137 COREEN AVE, PENRITH NSW 2750

WW58821

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

At the movies... REVIEW Fall 2  1 hour, 37 minutes The survival psychological thriller ‘Fall’ was one of the most unique movies of 2022, and while it may not have been collecting any Academy Awards, it was an edge of your seat ride from start to finish. But did it leave one exiting the cinema desperate for a sequel? Not really. We got one, however. In fact, we’re getting two – with a third ‘Fall’ movie set to be filmed in the not-too-distant future. ‘Fall 2’ does a lot of what the first film does. It strips the survival-thriller plot down to the bare essentials – a small cast, minimal location changes and obvious, though still gripping, near misses. This time around, Jax (Harriet Slater) is the main attraction. She’s the younger sister of Shiloh, who didn’t survive the first film. Jax is struggling to get past her grief, but

with Shiloh’s friend Luce (Arsema Thomas) in tow, she decides to complete some of the bucket list items on her late sister’s agenda – starting with an ambitious and illegal “plank walk” in Thailand. And so begins the easy-to-follow plot: Two girls climb mountain, two girls get trapped,

See these movies at...

two girls must find way out. Attractive man in the mix. There’s thunderstorms, earthquakes and landslides to contend with – and as the opening scene shows, it’s not just natural challenges climbers must face. ‘Fall 2’ is not as good as the first film, and

slightly more predictable. There’s also some really laughable scenes. The ultimate pay-off is OK, the twist reasonable and the acting above average. But nothing about ‘Fall 2’ proved to me that a decent post-COVID movie needed a series. – Troy Dodds

PENRITH

READ OUR DIGITAL NEWSPAPER

Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 Practical Magic 2 (M)

The Weight (MA)

Colours of Time (M)

Glenrothan

Now Showing to 30 Sep

17 to 23 Sep

17, 18 & 22 Sep

18 to 23 Sep

www.hoyts.com.au

Released every week

(M)

Shaun the Sheep: Heart of the The NeverEnding Muriel’s The Beast Of Beast (CTC) Story (G) Wedding (M) Mossy Bottom (G) Advance Screening 20 Sep CLASSIC 26 to 30 Sep CLASSIC 25 & 28 Sep

SUBSCR IBE TO R E C EIVE FOR F R EE scan m

Advance Screenings 19 & 20 Sep

Direct to your email inbox: Weekly Session Times & Coming Attractions

www.glenbrookcinema.com.au

WW57783

Join Our Mailing List

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC 54

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

WW57667

LISTEN NOW ON

Ê ‘Australian Survivor’ will return in 2027 with a new theme, ‘Rivals’. Production is currently underway in Malaysia, with David Genat back as host of the series pitting sporting heroes, TV stars and everyday Aussies in a quest to Outwit, Outplay and Outlast all the others. The cast includes League and Union players, Robbie Farah and Adam Ashley-Cooper; AFL’s Heath Shaw and Adam Cooney; Alisa and Lysandra Fraser from ‘The Block’; Olympians Kerri Pottharst and Danielle Scott; actors Bernard Curry and Lincoln Lewis; red carpet regulars Mitch Churi and Christian Wilkins; athletes Sharni Layton and Sarah Yatim, plus lawyers, vloggers, divas and rebels and power mums. ‘Australian Survivor’ will air on 10 next year.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê The new season of ‘Hard Quiz Kids’ will

premiere on ABC iview on Friday, November 9 at 6am (replayed on ABC Family on Saturday, October 10 at 7.30pm). Junior experts go head-to-head on their expert subjects including ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, ‘Doctor Who’, The London Underground, ‘Wallace and Gromit’, Dinosaurs, Black Holes and Super Netball. Over four rounds of trivia

SEPTEMBER 30 9PM CRIME NIGHT!, ABC

STARTING NEXT YEAR

AUSTRALIAN SURVIVOR, 10

the kids try to outsmart host Tom Gleeson, and each other, for bragging rights, and the coveted Big Brass Mug.

Ê Julia Zemiro hosted series ‘Crime Night!’

is returning to the ABC on Wednesday, September 30 at 9pm. In the series, criminologists Professor Danielle Reynald and Dr David Bartlett are joined by comedians to unpack the science and psychology behind crimes. Across six episodes, the panel will dive into different areas of crime and criminology from false confessions and romance scams to citizen sleuths, cults and criminal profiling. Comedian Lou Wall is back too with their clever analysis on the theories that shape modern criminology.

Ê Nine has announced its extended its rights for the English Premier League until the end of the 2033/34 season. Under the agreement, Nine retains exclusive Australian streaming and broadcast rights with Stan Sport to screen every match, live and exclusive. Nine Entertainment CEO Matt Stanton said: “Football is the ultimate global game, followed with remarkable intensity by millions of fans across Australia. Bringing the Premier League to Stan has been a genuine gamechanger for our business, and we are

very pleased to be extending the partnership for a further six years”.

Ê A new season of ‘Dexter: Resurrection’ is coming to Paramount+ on Friday, October 30. The second season finds Dexter Morgan caught between two killers – one with decades of notoriety and a lifetime of kills behind him, and the other a fresh young face terrorising New York in ways no one has ever seen. Ê Netflix has dropped a new documentary about ’80s icon Mr. T, titled ‘Untold Mr. T: I Pity The Fool’. Before the gold chains, mohawk and Hollywood fame of ‘The A-Team’ and ‘Rocky III’, there was Laurence Tureaud. This is the extraordinary origin story behind one of the most unlikely and beloved icons in entertainment. Ê Acclaimed Prime Video superhero series ‘Spider-Noir’ has been axed. Despite five Emmy wins to its name, Prime Video has opted not proceed due to declining viewership and production costs. Ê Casting for season six of SBS series ‘Alone Australia’ is now underway. To apply, visit https://alonecasting.com.au.

WW58852

BIMBIIGANG! Learn about Gundungurra local lore, traditional stories and discover the natural wonders of the Blue Mountains as you walk on Country with an Indigenous guide. Includes unlimited rides on the Scenic Railway, Skyway and Cableway.

SCENICWORLD.COM.AU/TICKETS/BUUNYAL Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

TV Guide: September 18 - 24

Sunday 20 September

Saturday 19 September

Friday 18 September

Your guide to the week’s television viewing 6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 10:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 11:00 Back Roads 11:30 Austin (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year 1:45 The Cage (M l) 2:55 Grand Designs Transformations (PG) 3:55 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:20 Death Valley (M) 9:05 Portrait Artist Of The Year

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Movie: 1:00 Taronga - Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) “Glass Houses” (M s) (’20) Stars: Bree Turner 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Gardens 7:30 AFL: Preliminary Final: Sydney Swans v Fremantle Dockers *Live* NRLW: Wests Tigers v Canberra Raiders 10:30 AFL: Post Game 11:15 GetOn Extra *Live* From Campbelltown Stadium 9:45 Movie: “Lethal Weapon 2” (M) (’89) Stars: 11:45 The Voice (PG) 1:25 The Midwich Mel Gibson 12:00 Tipping Point (PG) Cuckoos (MA15+) 2:30 Home Shopping

9:00 The Finish Line 10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Entertainment Tonight 11:00 Building The Dream Home 12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Love It Or List It Australia 8:40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:10 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:10 Vintage Voltage (PG) 11:00 Wales - Land Of The Wild 12:00 Worldwatch 1:55 DNA Family Secrets (PG) 3:00 NITV News - Nula 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 The Good Ship Murder (M v) 8:30 WWII With Tom Hanks (M)

1:30 My Lottery Dream 11:00 Millionaire Hot Home (PG) 2:30 The Seat (PG) 11:30 Lingo Block (PG) 4:00 Dream 12:30 Becker (PG) 1:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) Kitchens And Bathrooms 5:00 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With No Demo Reno 6:00 House Justine Schofield 4:30 Becker Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A Barnwood Builders 8:30 Half Men (PG) 9:30 Becker (M) Farmhouse Fixer (PG)

1:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 The Great Australian Doorstep (PG) 2:30 Sydney Weekender 3:00 Malaysia Kitchen 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Escape To The Country 6:00 Bargain Hunt

2:30 Kick Ons 3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Engineering Disasters (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown *Live*

12:00 The Unit (M v) 3:00 Malaysia Kitchen 3:30 The Big Adventure (PG) 4:50 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 6:20 Movie: “The Call Of The Wild” (PG) (’20) Stars: Harrison Ford 8:30 Movie: “Maid In Manhattan” (PG) (’02) Stars: Jennifer Lopez

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:30 Dreaming Big 5:00 Ocean Warriors: Mission Ready (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Movie: “Muppets From Space” (G) (’99) Stars: Dave Goelz

10:30 Building The Dream Home 11:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

3:35 Fizzy And Suds 4:00 Andy’s Global Adventures 4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior

12:00 ABC News At Noon 1:00 ABC News Day 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 The Pacific 8:00 ABC News Tonight

3:10 QI (PG) 3:40 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:10 MythBusters (PG) 5:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 5:45 George Clarke’s Old House New Home 6:35 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG)

5:30 Poh & Co. 6:00 Rick Stein’s Fruits Of The Sea 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Beyond Bali With Lara Lee 8:30 Battle Of The Brands 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK

12:30 Costa Concordia: 12:00 DW The Day Chronicle Of Disaster 12:30 Jimmy Carr’s I (M l) 2:30 Baywatch: Literally Just Told You (M l,s) 2:20 Forged In Fire (PG) Island Of Romance (M v) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The 3:10 Stories From The Cities Addams Family 5:30 (PG) 3:40 Worldwatch 5:40 Bewitched 6:30 Baywatch (M) Inside The Huddle 6:10 Over The Black Dot 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 Movie: “No Duff” (M l,s) 7:30 NITV News Update (’15) Stars: Mae Whitman

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Grantchester (M v) 1:15 Father Brown (M) 2:05 Death Valley (M) 2:50 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip 3:40 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 4:10 Tampa (PG) 5:00 Australian Story 5:30 Landline 6:00 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Grantchester (M v) 8:20 Father Brown (M) 9:05 Murdoch Mysteries (PG)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield *Live* 4:00 AFL: Pre-Game 4:30 AFL: Preliminary Final: Hawthorn Hawks v Brisbane Lions *Live* From The MCG 8:00 Seven News 8:30 Movies: “The Break Up” (M l,s) (’06) Stars: Jennifer Aniston 10:45 Kings Of The Big Game - West Coast Eagles (M l) 12:00 The Midwich Cuckoos (MA15+) 2:00 Home Shopping

6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday (PG) 12:00 Surfing Australia TV 12:30 Drive Review: Denza B8 Vs. LC300 + Tesla Model Y 1:00 Cybershack 1:30 The Block (PG) 3:00 NRLW Wrap (PG) 4:00 NRLW: Brisbane Broncos v Newcastle Knights *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 NRL: Sydney Roosters v CronullaSutherland Sharks *Live* From Allianz Stadium 9:50 NRL: Post Match

9:30 Frugal Foodie 10:00 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey 10:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 11:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:00 Love It Or List It Brilliant Builds 1:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 1:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 2:00 Deal Or No Deal - Celebrity Jackpot (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 7:30 Selling Houses Australia 9:30 Love It Or List It UK Brilliant Builds 10:30 Watson (M)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:20 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 9:50 Car & Country Quest 11:05 Wonders Of The World I Can’t See (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Cycling: Tour Of Britain Men Highlights 3:00 Such Was Life And Such Was Death (PG) 3:10 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:40 I’ll Be Frank (PG) 4:40 Loxton Basketball - 70 Years (PG) 5:35 War Trains (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Salisbury Poisonings - A Spy Next Door (M l)

1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:00 Better Homes And 1:30 NDRC Top Gardens 2:00 Escape Doorslammer 2:30 To The Country 3:00 AFLW: Round 6: Port Adelaide The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 4:00 Crows v Sydney Swans *Live* Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield *Live* 5:30 4:30 Frozen Gold (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 8:00 AFL: Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Post Game Yorkshire Vet (PG)

1:00 New Idea Test Kitchen 1:30 Behave Yourself (PG) 2:30 Zumbo’s Just Desserts (PG) 3:45 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Tiger Rising” (PG) (’22) Stars: Christian Convery 7:30 Movie: “The Holdovers” (PG) (’23)

3:00 Movie: “Black Magic” (PG) (’88) 4:05 Movie: “The Darkside” (M) (’13) Stars: Bryan Brown 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:40 Movie: “Fright Night” (PG) (’11) Stars: Anton Yelchin

6:00 Home Shopping 9:00 Reel Action 9:30 Building The Dream Home 12:30 The Living Room 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Reel Action 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 JAG (PG) 12:15 Home Shopping

7:30 Deal Or No Deal 8:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Becker (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Becker (PG) 1:30 Frasier (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

1:30 No Demo Reno 2:30 Renovation Aloha (PG) 3:30 Barnwood Builders 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 5:30 Dream Homes Revealed 6:30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses 7:30 Bargain Mansions

2:00 ABC News 2:30 3:00 Play School 3:30 The Breakfast Couch We’re Going On A Bear 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Hunt 3:55 Talking Tom That Pacific Sports Show 4:00 Heroes 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 Peter ABC News 4:30 BTN 4:55 Rabbit 6:10 Shaun The Sheep Heywire 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC 6:25 Zog 7:05 Do Not Watch This Show 7:30 Teenage Boss: Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News Next Level

3:20 QI (PG) 3:50 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Old House New Home 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (M l)

6:00 Searching For Soul Food 6:30 Jeremy Pang’s Hong Kong Kitchen 7:30 Jamie’s Kitchen 8:30 Rick Stein: From Venice To Istanbul 9:40 Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted 10:30 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure 11:30 Yes, Chef!

12:05 Movie: “The Fifth Element” (PG) (’97) Stars: Bruce Willis 2:25 Fear Itself With Alex Lee (PG) 2:40 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 3:40 Worldwatch 5:45 Mastermind 6:45 Engineering By Catastrophe (PG)

1:00 Tennis: Davis Cup: Australia v Poland *Live* From Pat Rafter Arena 6:00 Seinfeld (PG) 7:00 NBL: Melbourne United v Adelaide 36ers *Live* From 9:30 NBL: Perth Wildcats v South East Melbourne Phoenix *Live*

12:00 The Avengers (PG) 1:00 Movie: “Quiet Weekend” (G) (’46) Stars: Derek Farr 2:55 Movie: “Duel In The Jungle” (PG) (’54) Stars: Jeanne Crain 5:00 Movie: “The Colditz Story” (G) (’55) Stars: John Mills 7:00 Getaway (PG)

9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:15 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG) 3:10 Grand Designs - House Of The Year (PG) 4:00 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli (PG) 4:30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 5:00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 5:30 Back Roads (PG) 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG)

10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Border Security - International (PG) 12:30 AFLW: Round 6: GWS Giants v Richmond Tigers *Live* 2:30 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:30 Better Homes And Gardens 4:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Voice (PG) 9:00 Seven News Spotlight (PG) 10:00 My Roommate, My Murderer Death Of Stephanie Hanse (M v)

8:00 Australia By Design - Architecture 8:30 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair Planet Shapers 9:00 UFC: 331 Prelims (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide *Live* From Las Vegas 11:00 Food Trail World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 AFL: Sunday South Africa 11:30 Good Chef Bad Chef Footy Show *Live* 1:00 GolfBarons (PG) 12:00 Good Food Everyday With Gary 1:30 The Block (PG) 2:30 NRL: New Zealand Warriors v Newcastle Knights *Live* Mehigan (PG) 12:30 Farm To Fork 1:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 1:30 Millionaire Hot From Eden Park 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The Block: Kitchen Week Reveal (PG) Seat (PG) 2:00 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Late 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 10 News Plus 7:00 10:10 The First 48 (M l,v) 11:10 Murder In The 21st (M) 12:00 I Survived A Crime (M v) Gogglebox Australia (PG) 8:00 Watson (M)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 SBS50 (PG) 9:05 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:00 Car & Country Quest 11:10 Journey Of The Pelicans - Outback Mystery 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Living Black Shorts 1:00 Motorsport: Speedweek 3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 4:00 Steps Of Freedom - The Story Of Irish Dance 5:35 War Trains (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Roman Empire By Train With Alice Roberts (M s) 8:25 Ancient Superstructures (PG)

1:30 Malaysia Kitchen 2:00 Better Homes And Gardens 2:55 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 3:55 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:55 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:55 Escape To The Country 6:55 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (M)

2:30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates (PG) 3:00 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 4:00 Frozen Gold (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Border Security - International (PG) 7:00 Border Security Australia’s Front Line (PG)

3:45 The Voice (PG) 5:30 The Great Day Out 6:00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 9:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 10:30 Bones (M)

2:35 Football: Big Rivers League Grand Final *Replay* 4:00 Stompem Ground 4:20 Nat King Cole: Afraid Of The Dark 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Extraordinary Animals (PG)

6:00 Home Shopping 11:00 Escape Fishing 7:30 Deal Or No Deal With ET 11:30 Building 9:30 Lingo 11:30 The Dream Home 12:30 What’s Up Down Under Becker (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Becker (PG) 1:30 (PG) 1:30 Buy To Build 2:00 Frasier (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) JAG (PG) 4:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 4:30 Bondi Rescue 7:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 10:30 Becker (PG) 11:00 Frasier (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

3:00 Play School 3:30 The Gruffalo 4:20 Stan And Gran 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 5:05 Peppa Pig 5:20 Peppa Pig 5:50 Iron Man And His Awesome Friends 6:25 Zog 6:55 Rocket Club 7:30 Paddington 9:00 Animal Park 10:30 Secrets Of The Zoo

2:00 ABC News 2:30 Australian Story 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 The Regions 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Foreign Correspondent 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders

3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Old House New Home 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (M s)

5:30 River Cottage Vegetables 6:30 Matt Preston’s Plating Locally 7:00 Frugal Foodie 7:30 Neven’s Portuguese Food Trails 8:30 Australia’s Greek Cafes & Milk Bars 9:35 Prue Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen 10:35 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure

12:55 Movie: “The Year Of Living Dangerously” (M v) (’82) Stars: Mel Gibson 3:00 Race For The Planet (PG) 4:00 Stories From The Cities (PG) 4:30 Worldwatch 5:50 The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters (PG)

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

12:30 Dream Kitchens And Bathrooms 1:30 Mexico Life 2:30 Chateau DIY 3:30 Farmhouse Fixer (PG) 4:30 Barnwood Builders 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters International 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Fixer To Fabulous (PG)

12:00 My Favorite 4:30 My Way 4:45 The Martian 12:30 Getaway Toys That Built The (PG) 1:00 Tennis: World (PG) 5:15 Cards And Collectables Australia 5:45 Davis Cup: Australia v Poland Movie: “Doctor Dolittle” (PG) *Live* From Pat Rafter Arena (’98) Stars: Eddie Murphy 7:30 7:00 Keeping Up Appearances Movie: “Journey To The Center (PG) 7:30 Clarkson’s Farm (M) Of The Earth” (PG) (’08) Stars: 8:30 Fawlty Towers (PG) 9:50 Brendan Fraser Black Adder II (PG)

Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

12:00 Iconic Australia (PG) 1:00 Poirot (PG) 3:00 NRL: Canberra Raiders v Cronulla-Sunderland Sharks *Replay* 5:00 NRL: Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs v Penrith Panthers *Replay* 7:00 Antiques Roadshow

Thursday 24 September

Wednesday 23 September

Tuesday 22 September

Monday 21 September

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Landline 2:00 Back Roads (PG) 2:30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 3:00 Grand Designs Transformations 3:55 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story 8:30 Four Corners 9:20 Media Watch 4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG)

12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Beat The Chasers UK 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 AFL: Brownlow Medal - Red Carpet *Live* 8:00 AFL: Brownlow Medal *Live* 11:00 The Agenda Setters: The Rugby League (M)

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 The Agenda Setters

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block Reveal (PG) 1:30 Getaway (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:45 100% Footy (M l)

3:30 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:30 First Dates UK (M l) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M s,v)

12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Deal Or No Deal - Celebrity Jackpot (PG)

12:10 Worldwatch 2:00 Human Forever (PG) (In Various) 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Bill Bailey’s Vietnam (PG) 8:30 24 Hours In Emergency (M l)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And 5:30 The 77 Percent Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV With Justine Schofield JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull News Update 6:40 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Who (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Do You Think You Are? (PG) Two And A Half Men (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) 8:30 Living Black

4:00 Restored 5:00 Christina In The Country (PG) 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Masters Of Flip

3:30 Movie: “Carry On 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 3:45 Worldwatch 5:45 6:30 Everyday Gourmet 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News 5:40 Kangaroo Beach Screaming” (PG) (’66) NBL Overtime (PG) Alone Belgium (PG) (In 7:00 The Cook Up With Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 6:05 Spidey And His Stars: Kenneth Williams 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Flemish) 6:40 Adam Liaw 7:30 Nigella 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Amazing Friends 6:25 5:30 Poirot (PG) 6:30 Antiques Movie: “Law Abiding Citizen” House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Kitchen 8:00 Rick Stein’s Food Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News The Adventures Of Paddington ABC News With Joe O’Brien Roadshow 7:30 Death In Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats (MA15+) (’10) Stars: Gerard And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Stories 8:30 Hong Kong 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 Paradise (M v) Butler 10:45 NBL Overtime ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Gourmet With Justine Schofield Does Countdown (M l,s) Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Grantchester (M v) 1:55 Back Roads (PG) 2:25 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 2:55 Grand Designs Transformations 3:55 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Foreign Correspondent (PG)

12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 First Dates Australia (M l,s) 8:30 The Agenda Setters: AFL Grand Final Special (M) 9:30 House Of Wellness (PG) 10:30 Kylie Vs Bee Gees (PG)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:15 Explore TV 1:45 My Way 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:40 Travel Guides (PG)

3:30 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:30 First Dates UK (M l) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (M)

5:00 Ocean Warriors: Mission Ready (PG) 5:30 Indian Country Today News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 The Point 8:00 The First Inventors

4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Call The Midwife (PG)

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Truckers (PG)

6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

6:00 Rick Stein’s Fruits 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News Of The Sea 7:00 The Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Cook Up With Adam 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Liaw 7:30 Sergio Perera’s ABC News With Joe O’Brien And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Destination Peru 8:00 Luke 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Nguyen’s Railway Vietnam

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch 2:00 Back Roads (PG) 2:30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 3:00 Grand Designs Transformations 3:55 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz

12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 The 1% Club UK (PG) 8:30 Centimetre Perfect - Dennis Cometti (PG) 10:45 Unfiltered (PG) 11:15 Stumble (PG) 11:45 Happy’s Place (PG)

4:30 American 4:00 Medical Restoration (PG) 5:00 Emergency (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The 5:30 American Pickers (PG) Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG) Heartbeat (PG) 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

5:00 Ocean Warriors: Mission Ready (PG) 5:30 APTN National News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Friday Night Thunder

6:00 Rick Stein’s Food 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News Heroes 6:30 Everyday Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Gourmet With Justine 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up ABC News With Joe O’Brien And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Stein’s Food Heroes

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Falling (M l) 1:55 Back Roads (PG) 2:25 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 2:55 Grand Designs Transformations 3:55 Frankie Drake Mysteries (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:25 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Time Is Money 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 8:30 The Front Bar (M l) 10:00 Hear The Mighty Roar: Brisbane Lions (M l) 11:25 Kick Ons

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Ticketyboo (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Paris Hotel De Ville - A Masterpiece (In English/ French) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey (M s) 8:30 Insight (M) 9:30 Dateline (M)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 With Justine Schofield JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Two And A Half Men (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Dateline (M) 2:30 Insight (M) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Eye Of The Game (In Auslan/ English) 4:20 Driven By Belief 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Marilyn And The Mob (M) 9:30 Apollo Has Fallen (M)

2:00 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey (M s) 3:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 3:30 The Crusaders - Fortresses Of Faith (PG) (In English/ French) 4:35 Matt Preston’s Plating Locally 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Hollywood Crime Story (PG)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And 5:00 Ocean Warriors: Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 Mission Ready (PG) With Justine Schofield JAG (M s,v) 3:30 Bull 5:30 Te Ao With Moana (In English/ Maori) 6:00 Bamay (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (M s,v) 6:30 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Going Places With Ernie Dingo 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) Two And A Half Men (PG)

3:30 My Greek 5:00 Storage Wars Odyssey (PG) 4:30 (PG) 5:30 American First Dates UK (M l) Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFLW: Round 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 7: Geelong Cats v Hawthorn Ramsay’s Hotel Hell (M l) Hawks *Live*

6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

6:00 Rick Stein’s Food 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News Heroes 6:30 Everyday Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Gourmet With Justine 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up ABC News With Joe O’Brien And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) With Adam Liaw 7:30 River 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Cottage Spring

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Restored 5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town

3:30 Movie: “A 4:30 The Addams 3:40 Worldwatch 5:45 Passionate Stranger” Family 5:30 Bewitched Alone Belgium (PG) (In (PG) (’57) Stars: Ralph 6:30 Baywatch (M v) Flemish) 6:40 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: Richardson 5:30 Poirot (PG) Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats “The Meg” (M) (’18) Stars: As Time Goes By Jason Statham Does Countdown (M l,s)

9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:15 Getaway (PG) 1:45 My Way 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 RBT (M l) 8:30 I Am Chevy Chase And You’re Not (MA15+)

4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown (M)

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Restored 5:00 Masters Of Flip 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Chateau DIY

3:30 Movie: “Halfway 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 3:45 Worldwatch 5:45 House” (PG) (’44) The Addams Family Alone Belgium (PG) (In Stars: Mervyn Johns 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 Flemish) 6:40 Baywatch (M v) 7:30 Seinfeld 5:30 Poirot (PG) 6:30 Antiques Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Rush Hour Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (PG) 2” (M s,v) (’01) Does Countdown (M l,s)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 Ski Rescue Down Under (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:45 TBA 9:45 NINE News Late

3:30 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:30 First Dates UK (M l) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 The Rookie (M v) 10:30 NCIS (M)

4:00 Restored 5:00 Help! I Wrecked My House 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Bargain Block (PG)

3:30 Movie: “Spring 4:40 The Addams 2:45 Insight 3:45 And Port Wine” (PG) Family 5:40 Bewitched Worldwatch 5:45 Alone (’70) Stars: James 6:40 Baywatch (M v) Belgium (PG) (In Flemish) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: Mason 5:30 Poirot (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out “A Star Is Born” (M) (’18) Stars: Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Footy Show Grand Final *Live* Bradley Cooper Of 10 Cats Does Countdown

Programming information correct at time of going to press, changes are at the network’s discretion Prepared by National Typesetting Services

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

PRESENTS

PENRITH BALL CELEBRATING YEARS OF SUPPORTING GOTCHA LIFE, TOMORROW MAN & TOMORROW WOMAN

SATURDAY OCTOBER DRESS CODE: MASQUERADE BALL HAT OR MASK VENUE: WESTERN SYDNEY CONFERENCE CENTRE AT PANTHERS JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE YEARS OF CONNECTION, CONVERSATION AND SUPPORTING MENTAL FITNESS IN PENRITH.

YEARS SUPPORTING PENRITH'S MENTAL FITNESS WITH OUR PARTNERS

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

BUY TICKETS

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

MAKE THAT MOVE!

NEW REAL ESTATE LISTINGS INSIDE TODAY! Western Property

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

MOVE TO AN EXCLUSIVE PENRITH STREET!

WHY WORRYING DOESN’T WORK: HEALTH TIPS

CHECK OUT OUR WEEKLY RECIPE!

SEE PAGE 61

SEE PAGE 64

SEE PAGE 72

Keep your air conditioning maintained with PREFERRED AIR arantee optimal performance all year! ye CONDITIONING to guarantee

0413 421 166

Split System Service Includes: Full electrical check Air flow check Air filter check Coil sanitising Drain check and clear Gas pressure check Outdoor unit check

Ask us about Installation, Sales, Maintenance and Service

WW59249

Fully Ducted Systems

Includes: Reverse cycle operation check Full electrical check Zone operation check Air flow check Return air filter clean Duct Sanitising Drain check and clear Internal roof check Gas pressure check Outdoor unit and fan motor check

GET YOUR

SALES, SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATION WW59249

Scan here!

MERCH TODAY

FEATURE STORY Western Property

THE HUNT FOR THE BEST NIGHT’S SLEEP EVER I

f you’re anything like me (and I’m betting that you are), you love sleep. For me, sleeping is a daily pleasure that I look forward to each night, so when I don’t get a good night’s sleep, it really throws me off the next morning. I’m used to getting 10 hours a night, but between being woken up by pets, thinking about work the next day, or just not being able to turn my brain off, sometimes a quality night’s sleep can be elusive. As part of their Longevity Everyday campaign, Novotel has partnered with world-renowned sleep expert, Olivia Arezzolo. Arezzolo is famous for her sleep techniques, helping people by providing science based tips and tricks to prepare the body and mind for sleep. Being the sleep-lover that I am, I absorbed everything I could and went on the hunt for the best sleep of my life.

PROMOTION OFFER

HURRY! LIMITED TIME ONLY!

—LIMITED TIME ONLY— Kitchens Valued at $15,000 - $25,000

Kitchens Valued at $25,000 - $35,000

Kitchens Valued at $35,000 & Above

FREE $300 BING LEE GIFT VOUCHER

FREE $300 BING LEE GIFT VOUCHER + FREE SINK & TAP

FREE $500 BING LEE GIFT VOUCHER + FREE SINK & TAP

59054

Terms and Conditions apply. Free sink & tap are in the standard range from our supplier. The quote must be accepted within 30 days of date of issue. 10% deposit required at time of acceptance. Costing applies to J&L Kitchen cost only, trades are excluded.

4732 4566 | info@jandlkitchens.com.au/ ~ 1/61 Jack Williams Drive, PENRITH Showroom open Monday-Friday 7am-4pm, Saturday 9am-1pm

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

The evening began by relaxing in my room, admiring the breathtaking views of Sydney city. Being right in the heart of Darling Square, Novotel is at the centre of everything, with a great view of the city skyline.

“I WAS ASLEEP BEFORE I HAD TIME TO THINK ABOUT WORK THE NEXT DAY”

After some relaxation time, I headed down to an intimate chat with a circle of incredible women, all sharing our stories and difficulties with sleep. This chat felt more like a sleepover, all huddled around in comfy chairs, drinking tea and sharing our stories. Throughout, we received advice of what we can do to improve our quality of sleep, as well as set ourselves up the next morning. This included things like stopping eating and exercise three hours before bed, and beginning screen-free time in the 30 minutes leading up to sleep. After the talk, we headed to a delicious meal at Pumphouse, Novotel’s popular restaurant next door to the hotel. Pumphouse offers a range of dishes for lunch and dinner, as well as a selection of cocktails and beverages. We were treated to a unique menu, tailor made to be sleep-friendly. It was a fantastic spread of salmon, roasted vegetables, chicken, cous cous, and to top it all off, Greek yogurt with berries and honey, sourced from Novotel’s rooftop beehives. Feeling full, I briefly went back to my room to get changed into comfy clothes, for we were about to begin the Soundbath. I am interested in most wellness activities, but had never tried a Soundbath before. I can confirm it’s a unique and deeply relaxing experience. Laying in near darkness, we were led into deep relaxation, using a variety of sounds to promote restfulness, and let the mind clear. Throughout the experience, I felt my body fully relax, focusing only on my breathing and the soft warmth of the blanket around me. The hardest part of the evening came after – not falling asleep before I headed back!

Now left to my own devices, I took one last look at the view and tucked myself in for a great night’s sleep. Between the restful activities of the evening and the plush hotel pillows, I was asleep before I had time to think about work the next day. My sleep was deep, restful, and I woke up feeling energised. Overall, the experience was not only enjoyable, but educational. I’ve learnt that through making small, mindful changes to my nightly routine, I can make sure I get my 10 hours of quality, restful sleep. – Madeline Dantier

Ready to grow your business? Let’s have a conversation. Scan the QR code to find the best Weekender representative to help your business.

77 LADBURY AVENUE, PENRITH

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

YOU’LL LOVE LADBURY! What is so great about this property? It offers the perfect mix of space, comfort and lifestyle. With a beautiful design, plenty of room for family and friends, and the Nepean River right nearby, it’s a home you’d be proud to call your own.

Who does this property suit? Large or growing families, especially those looking for ample space to relax, entertain and enjoy multigenerational living. Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Penrith offers the perfect mix of relaxed family

living and convenience. With the Nepean River, beautiful parks, great cafés and shops, it’s a place

where you can enjoy a great lifestyle while having everything you need close by.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

Garage with internal access OPEN FOR INSPECTION: Inspect as advertised or via appointment CONTACT: Merrick Property Group Paul Merrick • 0404 599 146 paul@merrickpropertygroup.com.au

Looking to sell your home?

Contact one of the Weekender’s preferred agents today. Our Property Partners are ready to help.

4760 0812

0410 338 040

0428 934 618

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

G I

NHOM W

S E LL

Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.

The Residences Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money. • • • • • • •

Spacious, designer interiors Landscaped grounds Two to five-bedroom layouts Private porches and courtyards Family-friendly living areas Premium finishes and inclusions Tranquil locations

The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits. Banksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

58965

Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

A wide range of affordably priced residences now selling.

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

oranpark.com.au 02 9043 7500

WW58959

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

HEALTH The Experts

WHY WORRYING DOESN’T WORK I

AMANDA DUGGAN OnePointHealth 4732 5188

f you’ve ever caught yourself running through every possible “what if” scenario, you’re not broken. You’re human. Anxious overthinking and rumination usually start as a response to uncertainty. The human brain is wired to keep us safe, and uncertainty doesn’t feel safe. So we spiral. We imagine every outcome, we prepare, we plan, and somehow, it feels like control. As if thinking hard enough could stop bad things from happening. Worry, in its own strange way, becomes a coping mechanism. But here’s the truth: the only certainty in life is that it will be uncertain. Excessive worry is draining. It’s emotionally taxing, and over time, it makes us more anxious, not less.

Worry keeps anxiety alive in three key ways. 1. It magnifies the threat. The more attention we give to a worry, the bigger it grows in our minds.

2. It offers false control. Planning every detail feels like prevention, even when we can’t actually prevent anything. 3. It gets credit it doesn’t

deserve. When the feared outcome doesn’t happen, we convince ourselves our worrying is what kept us safe, rather than learning that

most worries simply never come to pass. The way forward isn’t to stop caring. It’s to get smarter about what we worry about. We need to learn to tell the difference between productive worry, which is about the present and things we can act on, and unproductive worry, which is about the future and things we can’t control. We also need to build something harder: the willingness to sit with uncertainty. To trust that we will survive even when we aren’t in control. To notice the pattern when it starts, and gently redirect our energy toward things that actually matter to us. If overthinking is running your life, affecting your sleep, work, or relationships, it’s worth a conversation. You don’t have to carry it alone.

I couldn’t believe it! The pain all but disappeared. sore hands for years due to repetitive injury’s from my work as a cake maker. A friend suggested I try Arborvitae Joint Health. After the first bottle I wasn’t And yes! I couldn’t believe it! The pain all but disappeared. The relief that I get isn’t usually met with any other treatments I’ve tried. It is worth every cent! I highly recommend it!”

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

Tracy from North Rocks, NSW

“A Clinical Study was completed and published in the journal Minerva Orthopedics. Key results from the Arborvitae Joint Health Study showed a:

66% DECREASE in pain test scores 50% INCREASE in walking distance without pain (100m increase) 56% DECREASE in inflammation in blood tests (CRP/C-reactive protein) 78% REDUCTION in use of on-demand medications 50% IMPROVEMENT in quality-of-life scores

Scan the QR code for more information about Arborvitae and the clinical study

"Running a forklift business and keeping up with my grandson requires mobility. Arborvitae Joint Health reduced my knee pain and swelling in two weeks — I take it before big days in the yard, and it keeps me moving!" Gary from Kenthurst, NSW

Stocked in over 2,000 Chemists and Health Foods Stores, including:

WW59526

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

PET HEALTH The Experts

SNAKE SEASON: KEEPING PETS SAFE THIS SUMMER I

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

f you follow local community pages, you may have noticed that snake sightings are becoming an almost daily occurrence across the Penrith region. Brown snakes are regularly being reported along the River Walk and around the lagoons in Jordan Springs, serving as a timely reminder that snake season is well and truly here. As temperatures rise, snakes become more active as they search for food and suitable places to shelter. For pet owners, this means taking extra care when walking dogs or allowing pets outdoors. Snakes generally prefer to avoid people and animals, but our pets don’t always give them the opportunity to slither away. Curious dogs may chase or investigate a snake, while cats can come across them while exploring or hunting. What starts as curiosity or play can quickly become a life-threatening encounter. In the Penrith region, eastern brown snakes and red-bellied black snakes are among the venomous species pet owners may encounter. Their venom affects animals in different ways. Brown snake bites can cause weakness, trembling, collapse and problems with the nervous system, while red-bellied black snake venom can damage red blood cells and may result in anaemia, weakness and dark-coloured urine. However, symptoms can vary and a bite from

either species can be fatal without prompt treatment. Knowing the warning signs is important. A snake-bitten pet may develop dilated pupils, trembling, drooling, vomiting, pale

gums, weakness or sudden collapse. Some animals may initially appear to recover after collapsing, only to become seriously unwell several hours later. This apparent improvement should never be taken as a sign that everything is fine. If you believe your pet has encountered a

snake, don’t wait for symptoms to develop. Seek veterinary attention immediately. Keep your pet as quiet and still as possible and minimise movement, as activity can encourage venom to spread through the body. Veterinary treatment may include initial blood testing followed by antivenom, intravenous fluids, oxygen or other supportive care, together with close monitoring in hospital. When the type of snake is unknown, treatment may involve using a combination of antivenoms. Treatment can be costly and, even with intensive veterinary care, complications such as kidney damage and other serious conditions can occur. Prevention is also important. Keep grass and vegetation around your property maintained, remove potential hiding places where possible, and supervise pets when they are outside. Take particular care around long grass, bushland, waterways, lagoons and areas where snakes have recently been reported. If your pet has chased, caught or played with a snake – even if you cannot see an obvious bite and your pet seems perfectly normal – treat it as an emergency and contact your veterinarian immediately. For information or emergency assistance, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL! At Orchard Hills ills Veterinary Hospital, we understand d that your pet is a cherished family ily member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pett care services to animals acrosss the Penrith district.

LET’S GO

Shopping

We offer: • Vaccinations ions • Radiography aphy • Microchipping pping • Surgery • Dental care are • Ultrasound nd

Phone 4736 6 2027 49 Wentworth Road Road,Orchard Orchard Hills Monday - Friday: 8am-7pm | Saturday: 8am-2pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9am-3pm

57725

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

STEVEN KORNER The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

TIME FOR A FINANCIAL SPRING CLEAN A

forgotten subscriptions can free up $50–$100 a month, money that’s better off going toward debt reduction or savings.

Start with bank statements Most of us set up subscriptions, memberships or direct debits at some point and then forget about them. Pull up the last two or three months of transactions and look for: • Subscriptions you no longer use (streaming services, apps, gym memberships) • Duplicate services (two music platforms, overlapping insurance cover) • Small recurring fees that have crept up over time • Account-keeping fees on accounts you barely touch Cancelling even two or three

Check where your savings are sitting Many people set up a savings account years ago and never revisit the interest rate. Banks regularly launch new savings products with better rates for new customers while older accounts quietly fall behind. If your weekly savings are sitting in an account paying a low rate, even a modest increase compounds meaningfully over a year. It’s worth checking: • W hether your current rate is still competitive • If a linked “bonus rate” account requires conditions (like a minimum deposit) you’re no longer meeting • Whether a term deposit or high-interest online saver suits your goals better than a everyday account Look at your borrowing too

s the weather warms up and western Sydney households turn their attention to clearing out cupboards and tidying the garden, it’s worth applying the same energy to your finances. A financial spring clean doesn’t take long, and for many households it can uncover savings that add up to real money over a year.

Home Loans

SMSF Loans

Vehicle V Ve hicle Loans

Refinance Loans

Business Loans

Investment Loans

First Home Loans

Personal Loans

Debt Consolidation

While you’re in a reviewing mindset, it’s a good time to check your home loan, car loan or business finance rates against what’s currently available in the market. Rates and lender policies shift regularly, and a loan that was competitive two or three years ago may no longer be the best fit for your circumstances. A small habit with a real payoff None of this needs to take more than an hour. Set a recurring reminder each season to run

through your statements, tidy up unused subscriptions, and check your savings and loan rates are still working for you. Over a year, these small reviews can add up to meaningful savings, money that’s better spent on your goals than sitting unnoticed in the wrong account. This article is general information only and doesn’t take into account your personal circumstances. Speak with a licensed adviser or broker before making financial decisions.

WW59411

Watch Our Videos Wa

Shop 2/ 396 High St Penrith NSW 2750

02 6190 9150

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

info@thefinancekorner.com.au u

5 out of 5 | 110+ Reviews

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AMANDA JANE Clairvoyant Medium amandajane-xo.com revivalretreats.com.au

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Whether it’s planning a trip, learning a new skill or exploring an idea that challenges your usual thinking, follow what sparks your curiosity. A conversation with someone from a different background or perspective could be especially inspiring. Life may be showing you that there’s more than one way forward. Stay open to possibilities you hadn’t previously considered.

This week encourages you to look beneath the surface. An emotional situation may require greater honesty, particularly if you’ve been pretending something doesn’t bother you when it actually does. Vulnerability can create deeper connection when shared with the right people. Financially, shared expenses or commitments may also need attention.

This week brings an opportunity to look at your relationships with fresh eyes. You may realise that a situation you’ve been trying to push forward actually needs more cooperation rather than more effort. Someone’s perspective could surprise you. Finding the middle ground doesn’t mean giving up what you want; it means creating a better way forward together.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

If you’ve been feeling tired, overwhelmed or simply stretched too thin, consider what can realistically be removed from your plate. You don’t need to do everything at once. Small changes around work, wellbeing or organisation could make life feel significantly lighter. Make choices this week that your future self will thank you for.

There’s a lighter energy surrounding you this week, encouraging more fun, creativity and connection. Say yes to something simply because it makes you happy. Romance may also receive a little extra attention, whether you’re strengthening an existing connection or meeting someone new. Stop analysing every possibility and allow yourself to enjoy what’s unfolding.

You could feel inspired to reorganise, redecorate or simply create a more peaceful environment around you. Family relationships may also require your attention, but remember that you don’t have to solve everyone’s problems. Offer love without absorbing what isn’t yours. Your own emotional wellbeing deserves just as much care and consideration.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Your voice is powerful this week, so don’t be afraid to use it. An important conversation, meeting or message could lead to a positive shift. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to express an idea, ask a question or clear the air, this could be it. Just remember that communication works both ways. Listening carefully may reveal something you previously overlooked.

As your season draws to a close, take a moment to recognise everything you’ve learned about yourself over the past month. Your attention now begins shifting towards security, finances and knowing your worth. Be thoughtful with money, but don’t allow fear to dictate every decision. Something you’ve been working towards may begin showing signs of progress.

Your season arrives with a beautiful opportunity. The focus shifts back towards you, your needs and what you want this next chapter to look like. You may feel ready to make a personal change or finally pursue something you’ve been postponing. Stop waiting for everyone else. This is your life, and you’re allowed to choose what feels right for you.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

You may find yourself craving more solitude than usual this week. Rather than questioning it, give yourself permission to step away from the noise. Your inner world has something important to tell you. Dreams, intuition and unexpected memories could offer insight into a situation you’ve been trying to understand. Rest isn’t wasted time.

Your social circle could bring an unexpected opportunity. Accept invitations, reconnect with people and be open to meeting someone outside your usual crowd. A casual conversation may lead to an exciting idea or future collaboration. You’re also being encouraged to revisit a goal. Perhaps the timing wasn’t right before, but that doesn’t mean the dream was wrong.

Your hard work may finally begin attracting the attention it deserves. Career, reputation and long-term ambitions are highlighted, making this a strong week to step forward rather than remaining behind the scenes. Someone may recognise a skill or strength you’ve been underestimating. Take the compliment and own your achievements.

WW59002

Amanda Jane is an internationally recognised Clairvoyant Medium, spiritual teacher, retreat facilitator, and founder of Revival Retreats Australia. With a gift for connecting to the spirit world and over a decade of experience supporting people through healing, transformation, and personal growth, Amanda has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt, accurate, and compassionate guidance.

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Have a story to share? Send us your news, community stories and photos from across Western Sydney.

Crossword

edium

1 4 8

6 9 5 4 2 1 3 5 7 6 1 2 Last 7week’s solution 6 5 3 2 8 5 7 8 6 4 6 8 7 9 1

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender westernweekender.com.au/digi-subscribe

SUDOKU No. 811

4 5

8 7

4 3 2 2 3

Very Hard

5 3 2 6 8

6 9

r8ts.com

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

4 3 6 1 8 9 7 2 5

1 5

Previous solution - Tough

6 1

5 1 7 2 5 3 6

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

ACROSS DOWN 1. Underwater ridge, often 1. Common surname; also a built by coral Scottish given name 4. Faults or imperfections 2. Each one without exception 8. In addition 3. In support of 11. Sound produced when speaking 4. Beloved or cherished 13. Customary way something 5. Person you know and like is used well 15. Strict; also the rear of a 6. Hues (US spelling) ship 7. Of that kind 17. Unwell 8. Number of years lived 18. Freedom from war or 9. Smallest in amount disturbance 10. Do as instructed 20. Polite form of address for a 12. Situated inside man 14. Month after March 21. Bundle of fibres carrying 16. Name of a book, film or signals in the body work 24. Different or additional 19. Milky digestive fluid carried 27. Timid or reserved by lymph vessels 28. Kinds or categories 22. Get free from confinement 30. Prefix meaning ‘within’ 23. Capital of Austria 31. Not clean 25. Spoke with someone 33.Curved like a bow 26. Traditional male given 34.At an unhurried pace name 35. Money that is owed 29. Person devoted to their 36. Level or flat country 39. Feel remorse for 32. Grain used in some breads wrongdoing 35. Severe or far-reaching 42. Urban railway system 37. Second planet from the 44. Long narrow mark Sun 45. Equipped with weapons 38. Room for young children; or place plants are grown 46. Rare variant form found in older dictionaries 40. Go or come in 48. Fire a projectile; or take a 41. Attempted photograph 42. Method or way of doing 49. Medicinal or other something chemical substances 43. Arrangement or sequence 50. Single movement made 44. Fails to keep or win when walking 47. Put into an arranged 52. Existence; a living creature sequence 54. Places for sleeping 51. Unusual paleness of the 55. Very fast face 56. Very serious or harsh 52. Sharp-tasting; not sweet 57. Instance, container or legal 53. Of Germany matter 54. Earlier than 60. Pinkish or optimistic 58. Have the same opinion 62. Gesture of respect 59. Abbreviation for 65. Force something to be established accepted 61. Utensil used for eating or 67. Imitating a style from the serving recent past 63. Got up; emerged 69. More than usual 64. Free from an obligation 70. Medium using transmitted 65. Opposite in effect to what electromagnetic waves might be expected 72. Number after nine 66. Smooth, glossy fabric 73. French word for ‘order’ 68. Make a bill into law 75. Beginning of something 71. Perfectly suited 77. Put on clothing; or 72. Former Russian emperor university title 74. Facts or information 79. Places to sit collected for analysis 81. Adult male 76. Amounts obtained by 82. Female given name addition Previous - REasy 84. Upper front part of solution the 78. equire torso 80. Definite article 1 of the chest 2 enthusiasm 3 4 or 8 583. Curved 6 7bone 85. Extreme obsession 1 2 3 9 7 4 5 6 86. Measure, pace or price per 7 9 8 1 2 3 4 unit 87. Launches assaults 2 3 8 4 5 6 88. Lost blood

7 9 8 2 5 3 1 6 4

1 2 5 4 7 6 8 3 9

2 5 4 8 9 1 6 7 3

3 1 9 5 6 7 4 8 2

8 6 7 3 4 2 5 9 1

6 7 1 9 2 5 3 4 8

5 4 2 7 3 8 9 1 6

9 8 3 6 1 4 2 5 7

NEVER MISS AN EDITION

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE FOR FREE

Wordsearch brought to you by Penrith Jobs www.penrithjobs.com.au

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

THEME: AUSTRALIAN MUSICIANS MISSY HIGGINS KASEY CHAMBERS HILLTOP HOODS COLD CHISEL DELTA GOODREM GRINSPOON ESKIMO JOE MISSY HIGGINS KASEY CHAMBERS HILLTOP HOODS COLD CHISEL DELTA GOODREM GRINSPOON ESKIMO JOE SIA THE KID LAROI FLUME TONES AND I KEITH URBAN GOTYE PAUL KELLY NICK CAVE Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about Australian Prime Ministers in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. Who is the current Prime Minister of Australia? 2. How many Prime Ministers has Australia had? 3. Who was the first Prime Minister in 1901? 4. Which Prime Ministers have served multiple terms nonconsecutively? 5. Who is Australian’s only female

Prime Minister? 6. Which beloved Prime Minister was in power for the longest time? 7. Which Australian Prime Minister went for a swim in 1967 and was never seen again? 8. Which Prime Minister was in office when new Parliament House was opened in 1988?

ANSWERS 1. Anthony Albanese 2. 31 3. Edmund Barton 4. Alfred Deakin, Robert Menzies, Andrew Fisher, and Kevin Rudd 5. Julia Gillard 6. Robert Menzies spent 18 years in power 7. Harold Holt 8. Bob Hawke

Trivia Quiz

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Grow your business by advertising with us! Contact sales@westernweekender.com.au or call 02 4722 2988

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 811

Medium

Str8ts

1 3 4

2 3 4 8 1 2 3 9 7 1 2 3 4 2 3 6 9 5 4 2 5 7 6 1 6 5 7 8 5 7 8 6 4 6 8 7 9

7 5

No. 811

Previous solution - Easy

1 2 4 8

5 6 7 4 5 6 7 9 8 4 5 1 3 8 2 3 2 4 3 1 2

8 6 7

5 6 9

2 3

7 3

1 5

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Name the Movie

Hexwords

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

PTNREESACBURUYE H Previous solution:

Previous solution: DONNIE DARKO

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge

of ThIs

of IT

Last week’s answer: GENE WILDER

Last week’s 30-second challengeanswer: ansWeRs To 168 - BEGINNER - 69, INTERMEDIATE - 192, ADVANCED - 216. 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 169 - BEGINNER - 30, INTERMEDIATE - 21, ADVANCED - 490.

-3 ÷3 +3 ÷7 -9 x3 -100 2/5 +4 4/9 1000% -37 2/7 +10 66 2/3% x10 30%

douBle IT TIMes By ITself

of ThIs

of IT

of ThIs douBle IT

ITself

douBle IT

of ThIs

douBle IT

ansWeR

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

www.30secondchallenge.com

douBle IT ansWeR

douBle IT

of ThIs

5. My owner has accepted that I’m really the one in charge.

ansWeR

www.30secondchallenge.com

662/3% Plus

4. My favourite food is lasagna.

1/3 of IT

62½% of ThIs

ansWeR

of ThIs

InTeRMedIaTe

120

of ThIs douBle IT

3. I shed more sarcasm than fur.

adVanced

ansWeR

of ThIs

adVanced

TIMes By ITself

douBle IT

2. I live with my owner and a lovable but not-so-bright dog.

33 1/3%

InTeRMedIaTe

-9

+1 ÷3 ÷9 ¼ x15 3/8 +6 ÷25 x9 -14 4/7 20% x100 7% 150% 4/9 x2½ 70% TIMes By ITself

1. Mondays are my least favourite day of the week.

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

of IT

½ of IT

HINTS

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge, BegInneR

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Every week, we encourage your kids to give some colour to an iconic Penrith landmark. Let their creativity shine with The Western Weekender!

• Penrith Stories That Matter To You • Breaking News Alerts

• Special Exclusive Offers & Discounts • Read The Paper • So Much More!

Download our App Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Morning Muffins A sweet way to start the morning What You’ll Need:

Method:

– Mixing Bowl – Whisk – Spatula – Muffin Tin – Muffin Liners

1. Preheat oven to 220°C. 2. Add egg, milk, oil, maple syrup, banana and vanilla to the mixing bowl and combine. Sift in the flour and baking soda and whisk together, getting out any lumps. Add in more milk if the consistency is too thick. 3. Add oats to the mixture and mix until combined Once combined, add the mixture into the lined muffin tin, filling to the top. Sprinkle cinnamon on top of each muffin. 4. P lace in the over for five minutes, then turn down the temperature (without opening the door) to 180°C for 10-12 minutes. Muffins are done when you insert a skewer or knife into the centre and it comes out clean.

Ingredients: – 1 Egg – 1/3 cup Milk – 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil – 1tsp Vanilla Essence – 1 cup Plain Flour – 1/2 cup Castor Sugar – 1/2 tsp Baking Soda – 1 cup Rolled Oats – 1 Banana (mashed) – 1/3 cup Maple Syrup – Cinnamon (to top)

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

Pick up a copy of the paper

weekendeFrree THE GREATEST the western

Lifesttyle Home&L

Brought to you by

Friday, October

Brian To’o and Jarome Luai. Photo: NRL Images.

F CT PERFE POT ANTS PLA

7, 2022

www.westernweeken

der.com.au

PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS

enrith’s greatest ever period of success has delivered the once struggling club a second straight Premiership and confirmed the Panthers rugby league juggernaut.are an unstoppable It is impossible to argue with James Fisher-Harris’ cheeky claim that this is Penrith team of all-time. They are the best an unpreceden delivering ted sustained period of success and have lost just 10 games three seasons, in the past breaking countless along the way. records Coach Ivan Cleary Nathan have also and his co-captain son entered Panthers tality, creating immorall sorts of history in what one of the greatest Premiership defences was game has ever seen. the Ivan is now the only won dual Premiership Penrith coach to have s with the club, just 24 Nathan while at is on club’s greatest ever his way to becoming the player. But Cleary was overshadowed Final night by on Grand a stunning performanc fullback Dylan e from Edwards, who claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match. Penrith players and fans partied and hard into long the night after Sunday’s 28-12 demolition of Parramatta. It was a definitive game of this incredible Penrith era and proved the club’s dominance of over the past three the competition seasons. It was billed as the the West in history greatest Battle of but kick-off it was obvious almost from the Parramatta were little chance of stopping a switched Penrith. on Eels fans were barely in their seats by time it was obvious the trophy was stayingthe the foot of the Mountains. at Penrith has emerged from an 18-year drought and near title collapse to now more Grand Final have two wins, and show slowing down. no sign of The scenes at Panthers Leagues Club after the game and at a fan Bet Stadium prove day on Monday at Bluethis over the community Penrith team has won . From Bathurst to cially own the west Blacktown, Penrith offi– the result of hard taking a chance and a playing group work, taken the NRL by that has storm.

| SEE PAGE 62 GHTEN UP YOUR HOME

Mark STEVENSON

You can pick up the latest copy of the Weekender at the following locations each week:

Crosswords & PUZZLES

Your HOROSCOPES

SEE PAGE 72

SEE PAGES 80-82

SEE PAGE 77

PANTHER

PARTY A

Ivan and Nathan Cleary. Photo: NRL Images.

THE FOOD YOURR PETS HAVE BEEN EN WAITING G FOR! R! Scan the QR code for 10% OFF EXTRA RA TIME AWARDS your first

PLAYERS AND FANS CONTINUE TO CELEBRATE PENRITH’S EPIC GRAND FINAL WIN OVER THE TH PARRAMATTA EELS FULL COVERAGE INSIDE

yi g or renting? Selling, buyin inning team today!

d rd Contact our award-w

PREMIERS POSTER

WE BREAK DOWN HOW THE

GET YOUR HANDS ON OUR SPECIAL COMMEMORATIVE PIN-UP PAGES 36-37

Principal S Director | Selling GRAND FINAL WAS WON PETER DIAMANTIDIS PAGE 33

WW51371

ST, ST MARYS 9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN RD, ST CLAIR 1/46-52 MELVILLE 9834 1044 | SHOP

FIVE KEY MOMENTS

Full coverage

ORDER NOW

JOIN PENRITH ɋS LEADING GYM

order!

WE NAME M OUR PLAYER OF THE YEAR AR FOR SEASON 2022 PAGE 45

starts » p. 27

49295

THE NEW RANGE TO BRI

Shop 4, Memory 429 High Street, Mall Penrith

• BOXING YOGA & REFORMER PILAT • 5OM INDOOR HEATED POOL • YOGA & REFORMER PILATES • OUTDOOR TRAINING • GROUP FITNESS • PERSONAL TRAINING • OPEN GYM FLOOR • CRECHE • CAFÉ FREE PASS FREE PASS (02) 47 600 700

16-19 LAMBRIDGE

PLACE, PENRITH

78-88 TENCH

AVENUE, JAMISONTOW

Grey Gums Hotel New On York Takeaway Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen –

McDonald's

Caddens

(Penrith Homemaker)

Caddens News (Caddens Corner) Woolworths

Salt Café (Penrith Homemaker) Shell Service Station Taproom On Tench The Coffee Club Nepean River Three Sugars Café Western Weekender York Takeaway Zoo Fitness 7/11 Jamisontown

Cambridge Gardens Coles McDonald's Overlander Hotel

Cambridge Park Cambridge Park Newsagency Cellarbations Friendly Grocer

Jordan Springs

Castlereagh

Brooks Tavern Jordan Springs Newsagency Woolworths

Ampol Service Station

Claremont Meadows IGA Claremont Meadows

Kemps Creek

Colyton

Caltex Service Station Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Colyton Centre Pharmacy Colyton Friendly Grocer Colyton Hotel Colyton Newsagency Dan Murphy's Hewitt Street Takeaway

Kingswood Barista Bar Coffee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital)

Cranebrook Aldi Cranebrook Cranebrook Community Health Cranebrook Village McDonald's Plus Pharmacy Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Country Brewer Hallani’s Kingswood Hotel Kingswood Newsagency Kingswood Sports Club Penrith Gaels Club Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital 7/11 Kingswood

Leonay Emu Sports Club Grow Café (formerly Willow Tree Café)

Penrith

St Clair i

7/11 Henry Street Aldi Astina Atmosphere Gym Australian Arms Borec Road Takeaway (Valley Café) Café Fred Coles Penrith (Nepean Village) Coles (Westfield Penrith) Crescent Mini Mart High Street Pies Hog's Breath Café Hoyts Westfield Joan Sutherland Arts Centre Lemongrove Community Health Centre Liquor Stax Peachtree McDonald's High Street McDonald's Panthers Leagues McDonald's Peachtree Mercure Hotel Museum Of Fire Nepean Aquatic Centre Nepean Motor Group Café Nepean Rowing Club Nepean Village Coffee Club Nepean Village Newsagency Nextra Westfield Office of Karen McKeown MP One Point Health Panthers Leagues Club Peachtree Hotel Penrith Bowling Club Penrith CBD Corporation Penrith City Council Penrith City Library Penrith Hotel Penrith Markets (Thursdays) Penrith Paceway Penrith RSL Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre Pioneer Tavern RE/MAX Sittano’s Restaurant Stafford Street Takeaway Tattersalls Hotel The Heritage Terrace Café The Log Cabin Westfield Wingstop World Gym

Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Foodworks St Clair Library St Clair Shopping Centre 7/11 St Clair

Chambers Cellars Lennox Centre Newsagency McDonald's Penrith Regional Gallery Woolworths Lennox Village 7/11 Emu Plains (Great Western Highway) 7/11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Llandilo

Emu Heights Super Save Compounding Chemist

Australia Post IGA Luddenham

Erskine Park

Minchinbury

Ashcroft’s IGA Erskine Park CTC

McDonald's Minchinbury Fruit Market

Glenbrook

Mulgoa

7/11 Regentville

Glenbrook Newsagency

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club Mulgoa Newsagency Mulgoa Pharmacy

Ropes Crossing

North St Marys

Silverdale

Boronia House (Retirement Community) Little Bottler MFC Food Stores

Choice Pharmacy Mobil Service Station

Old Mt Druitt

Budget Service Station Fish Fish Friendly Grocer Grose’s Pharmacy Southlands Newsagency South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre Woolworths

Glenmore Park Coles Mags News McDonald's Glenmore Park McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise Priceline Pharmacy Woolworths

Jamisontown

IGA

Londonderry Londonderry Liquor Store Shell X Roads

Luddenham

RM Newsagency

Abcoe Abel Street Café Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym Batt Street Takeaway Bean Redeemed Café

Orchard Hills Flower Power

Oxley Park Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

St Marys All Good Newsagency Andrew’s Corner Store Ampol Foodary Astley Pharmacy Cassandra’s On Queen Crystal Café Gloria Jean’s (St Marys Village) Guido’s Hair Care Jayam Supermarket McDonald's St Marys South Monfarville Corner Store Queen Street Newsagency St Marys Band Club St Marys Diggers St Marys Fish Market St Marys Leagues Club St Marys Library St Marys Pharmacy Queen Street St Marys Pizza Hut St Marys Village

Thornton Petramart Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia Wallacia Golf Club Wallacia Hotel Wallacia Post Office Wallacia Takeaway

Warragamba Warragamba Sports Club

Werrington Colonial Hotel Crossroads Convenience Store Dirani’s MFC George’s Charcoal Chicken Henry Sports Club McDonald's Supa IGA The Foodary Werrington Newsagency

Regentville

Coles Ropes Crossing Newsagency

South Penrith

Scan to subscribe to the digital edition!

WW57779

Blaxland

If your favourite location has run out, or if you’d like a new location added, please email distribution@westernweekender.com.au

www.westernweekender.com.au/getapaper Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

FREE TOTS LIST EVEN

WHAT’ S ON IN TOWN ONLINE GUIDE

www.westernweekender.com.au/whatson

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Gary’s verdict: GWM reloads Tank for Australia A

s one of the longer serving Chinese manufacturers in Australia, Great Wall Motors or GWM as it is now, has steadily grown a loyal customer base. While my experience with GWM has been chequered, it is important to judge each car on its merits. So, when the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV – let’s just call it ‘Tank’ from now on – arrived, I was keen to see how it compared to its siblings. Good news, it is much better behaved than its predecessors, and show GWM is listening and working to make its cars better. I like the look of the Tank, while inspired by other big 4WD wagons, GWM hasn’t built a ‘replicar’, instead settling on a design that is effective, some of the front end bling is a bit much for me, but it is a good looking wagon. Everything is proportioned, this is a long wheelbase seven seater, it has a physical presence, without being overstated or bloated. The front bumper line is low, a baseline for the grille, everything on the Tank is bold, well-defined and visible. The grille is a nod to the big American wagons, especially the central badge, but it works, giving the Tank a personality. Headlight assemblies will appeal to traditionalists, they look like headlights, with integrated indicators doing double duty as daytime running lights. The waistline is high, this is no low-slung hipster, there is a full-length pressing separating the glasshouse from the body panels, channelling air along the car. Also impressive is the clean underbody, despite being the range-topper, GWM built a car with genuine offroad capability. This includes retractable sidesteps, open a door, they deploy, close it and they pull back under the body, although there is an override to leave them in the open position. The rear door is another nod to the traditionalists, a hinged swing-out unit, with the spare tyre mounted outside. Not only does it revive the old-style offroad look, it creates the underfloor space needed for the electric motor key to the Hi4-T specification. GWM worked hard on the interior, I found it comfortable and welcoming, bringing luxury without adding cheesiness. The plastic woodgrain could go either way, lining the dash and centre console, I think they got it right, the matte finish acknowledges it is not the real thing, without looking like recycled Tupperware. Brushed silver buttons and switches avoid looking like the bling bag exploded, instead they are smooth to touch, blending new tech-

area, easily loaded with the door open and locked to prevent accidental closure. Congratulations to GWM on the fit and finish, in-cabin storage spaces abound, the lids and covers fit into place beautifully, all soft touch operation for that luxe feel. The stubby gear selector fitted my hand perfectly and shifted smoothly between settings, moving sideways to manualise shifting of the 9-speed automatic. The heated steering wheel was easy-grip, loaded with programmable switches to control a variety of functions, unfortunately not every button is clearly marked, making it a guessing game to identify exactly what it did. Reading the information display was simple, it is clear and generally well laid out, it took a little while to understand the functions, but long-term ownership would resolve a lot of these issues. Powering the Tank is a four cylinder petrol turbo combined with two electric motors, front and rear, for a total blended output of 300kW and 750Nm.

The ‘Tank’ is very roomy inside.

“BIG, BOLD, BUT NOT BRASH, THE TANK 500 IS A REAL OPTION FOR FAMILIES”

The ‘Tank’ certainly delivered improvements on previous versions.

nology with old school refinement. The doors open wide, combined with the sidesteps and powered and programmable seats sliding backwards, making entry and exit stress free. Seat trims are quilted, with nappa leather accents, they include heating, cooling and selectable massage functions, in our car they were black, there is also a blue and cream option available. A couple of long drives proved them comfortable, it was easy to relax and go with the flow, enjoying the 12-speaker sound system playing

My88 via CarPlay, with options of AM/FM/ DAB and Android. The 14.6” central touchscreen is impressive, but again, showing restraint by avoiding the full cinema screen experience, yes, I was able to adjust the brightness! As much as I like the interior, I would like more reach adjustment on the steering column, the height was good, I prefer having the wheel closer for better control, especially offroad. We had the seven seat option but only used the first two rows, creating a cavernous cargo

A prodigious output, well over 450hp in old terms, it fires the Tank down the road in short order, blending the power for seamless, and seemingly endless, acceleration. While I won’t complain about having prodigious power under my foot, it is the contrast to the look and feel of the Tank that has the likelihood to catch out the unwary. Those expecting a slow moving land barge will be surprised to find the Tank launching to north of 100km/h in just a few seconds. Given its offroad focus, including good ground clearance, the Tank benefits from long travel suspension, while high speed driving isn’t really its thing, the upside is the ability to soak up bumps. This iteration has significantly improved versions, although the driver monitoring will go off even if you look straight ahead, the Lane Keep Assist allows more sideways movement before activating. Steering accuracy is good, but with a slower ratio, making the Tank more stately and relaxed, not twitchy or nervous.

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

SPORT

Fox ends World Cup in style... again! NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith’s Jessica Fox has wrapped up the European paddling season in style, claiming her sixth women’s K1 World Cup title with victory in the women’s K1 final at ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup Final in Spain last weekend. Fox won her third women’s K1 World Cup gold medal of the season, completing three tough runs on the same day from heats, semis and the final. Fox was clinical in her performance across the three races to save her best run until the final. She overcame an early two-second penalty to power to the finish line and win the title in 93.77. Only 12 months following kidney surgery, Fox climbed back to the top

of the world with her 13th overall World Cup title and her six women’s K1 World Cup title, finishing with 322 points for the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup Series. The victory sealed on the 2027 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships course has given the 32-yearold more confidence to return next year to defend her women’s K1 World Championships title. “I love racing in La Seu. The support here is amazing. It’s always a really lovely place to race and to get that feel for the World Champs next year. It’ll be my third World Championships here, if I’m there hopefully,” Fox said. “It’s always good to race here and it’s an important step along the way. I’m really happy to be on top today.” Unfortunately, it wasn’t a golden finish for Fox in the women’s C1

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

final, with the seven-time C1 World Cup champion narrowly missing out on a record-extending World Cup title, finishing second overall by just two points. Fox needed a top six finish in the women’s C1 final to claim the overall Series crown, but a costly error at gate 15 saw her capsize and finish seventh in the final. Eva Alina Hocevar took the women’s C1 World Cup title, despite missing the final, with 234 points. Fox finished only two points behind for second with 232 points. Tereza Kneblova rounded out the podium with 223 points in third. Despite not being on the podium for the final, it was another terrific World Cup C1 campaign for the three-time Olympic champion where she won two women’s C1 gold medals in Prague and Augsburg.

Jess Fox celebrates with a smile. Photo: Romain Bruneau.

“I’m proud to have fought to the finish line, and unfortunately not on the podium for the C1 event, but I’m on the podium for the overall, which is great,” Fox said. “I’m really proud to finish on that note and be so close with Eva Alina who takes the win with just two points, so it was a very tight finish.” Fox’s K1 World Cup title, second

in the women’s C1 title and three gold medals at the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships cap a remarkable comeback season. Fox and the rest of the Aussie team will now turn their attention to the 2027 season, starting back home in Penrith in February before returning to Spain for the 2027 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships.

SPORT

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS Gymnasts set to shine on national stage: Local club ‘bouncing’ with excitement NATHAN TAYLOR

ounce Gymnastics, which has a location in Jamisontown, is celebrating a major achievement, with five of its talented gymnasts selected to represent the club at the upcoming Australian Gymnastics Championships (AGC) in Victoria this month. Representing Bounce Gymnastics across three divisions will be 15-year-old Mackenzie Annen, 15-year-old Annabelle Assaf and 14-year-old Eve Gebran in the Development League; 14-year-old Tiya Chauchan in the Junior League; and 16-year-old Clarita Slaibi in the Club League. The girls have been training in gymnastics for many years and have competed throughout the year, proudly representing Bounce Gymnastics at multiple competitions and achieving fantastic results along the way. Their selection for the upcoming AGC reflects the years of dedication, hard work and commitment they have put into gymnastics. Competing at a National level is an exciting milestone for the gymnasts and a chance to test themselves against some of the best from across Australia. Tiya has enjoyed an outstanding competition season, taking first overall at every competition she has entered. First overall is awarded to the gymnast who achieves the highest combined score across all four appa-

Kylie Otrupcek and Tiya Chauchan.

Jemma Bromwich.

Mackenzie Annen and Annabelle Assaf.

ratus – vault, uneven bars, beam and floor. 11-year-old Level 6 gymnast Jemma Bromwich has also been selected to represent Bounce Gymnastics internationally in New Zealand in November through the Recreational Gymnastics Australia (RGA) Futures League. Jemma has also enjoyed an exceptional season, recently taking out first overall at her latest RGA competition. She won first place

on vault and beam, while consistently placing highly across all four apparatus throughout the season. “This is such an exciting opportunity for all our gymnasts, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved this season” Bounce Gymnastics owner and head coach, Kylie Otrupcek said. “They have put in countless hours of training over many years and have continued to

represent Bounce with such commitment and determination at every competition. “To now see our athletes earning the opportunity to compete at a National level and, in Jemma’s case, internationally, is a huge milestone for our club. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see all their hard work paying off, and we’re so excited for them to experience these opportunities.” The AGC will start on September 28.

‘Analyse Every Tackle’

TALKIN’ SPORT

3pm - 6pm Weekdays

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

SPORT

Honouring sport’s best NATHAN TAYLOR

Charlotte Bradshaw and Ron Coskerie.

the Junior Matildas at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup in April. Upon accepting her $1200 prize, the young Western Sydney Wanderers star reflected on her career so far. “I recently signed with the Western Sydney Wanderers and for my whole life, ever since I was a child, I really wanted to play there,” she said. “My dad got me into football when I was young – he’s always coached – and my whole family is involved with football whether it’s my mum who’s driving me there or my siblings supporting me on the sidelines. I really want to thank everyone for this award.” Taking out the Sports Administration Award was Heidi Valderlem from the Emu Plains Cricket Club and Nepean District Cricket Association. Valderlem had huge year with both Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia naming her Volunteer of the Year for her lead-

WW57677

world-renowned tumbler and a Matildas star of the future were crowned the major winners at the 2026 Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Awards. Over 100 people attended this year’s ceremony celebrating local sport’s best, which was held at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club last Friday night. While a dozen awards were presented across the evening, all eyes were on the two major category winners – Senior Sports Star of the Year and Junior Sports Star of the Year. Scoring the prestigious Senior Sports Star of the Year for the second time in his career was Glenmore Park tumbling sensation Ethan McGuinness. The 25-year-old enjoyed another incredible year, crowned World Champion at the 2025 Trampoline Gymnastics World Championships in Spain. An emotional McGuinness was thrilled to receive his $2400 prize. “Firstly, thank you very much for the award, I was counting on it because I need to pay for my World Championships next week – this is going to go a long way,” he said. “I’d like to thank the Penrith community, all of my sponsors, all the people watching me and cheering me on. It really goes a long way, so thank you very much!” The evening’s other big award – Junior Sports Star of the Year – was presented to promising teenage footballer Charlotte Bradshaw. The talented Jordan Springs resident had a huge year on the football pitch, representing

MY88.COM.AU MY88.COM.AU 78

the western weekender » Thursday, September 17, 2026

ership, service and commitment to the game. For her passion and hard work across not one but two sports, Mariah Northey took out the Volunteer Award. Northey often goes above and beyond in her duties as Vice President of the Penrith South Netball Club and Secretary of the Glenmore Park Cricket Club. For his steady and influential presence in the local Muay Thai community, Mardsing Khamchuang took out the Coach Award for 2026. Khamchuang has been successfully training up and coming fighters at MSP Muay Thai in Jamisontown since 2018. One of the youngest winners on the night was basketball umpire Jake Erickson, who scored the Referee/Umpire Award. At just 16, Jake has already built an outstanding record as a young referee in Penrith and the wider NSW basketball community. Fresh off winning silver at the 2026 Commonwealth Games,

Belinda Leonard, Ethan McGuinness and Chad Breadsell.

Cranebrook’s Layla Sharp won this year’s All Abilities Award. The fast runner turned long jumper certainly had a year to remember in the T38 classification. For his longevity and many accolades in martial arts, Davy Wijaya from Yukan Kai Karate Do in Jamisontown was handed the Masters Athlete Award. Wijaya achieved a significant milestone last year by being selected to represent Australia at the Oceania Karate Cup in Noumea. Proving she has a bright future in the water, swimmer Delinda Thompson won the Rising Star Award. Whether it’s in the open water or in the pool, the dedicated teenager was one of Australia’s best junior swimmers this year. Two amazing teams won the Team of the Year Awards, with the Penrith Panthers Basketball U14 Girls Junior Premier League Team winning Female Team of the Year for their extraordinary season on the court, while the Nepean District Cricket Association Martin Shield Team was named the Male Team of the Year after defeating Sutherland in the 2025/26 Grand Final to go back-to-back. Finally, former Penrith Valley Sports Foundation President Rodney Watson was named the recipient of the prestigious Jim Anderson Memorial Award. The much-loved local treasure and former Penrith Netball President was also bestowed a new award on the night, the Life Member Award. “Thank you to the Foundation for this incredible honour,” Watson proudly said. “It’s been my privilege to be a volunteer to sport for more than 26 years. It’s been an incredible journey and one that I enjoyed.”

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Knight back in boost for Thunder was all Balmain, with the Tigers pushing out to an 18-point lead heading into the fourth. The final quarter saw the Rams fight back in a big way, but they ultimately fell short by just one goal and one behind. Overall, it was a sensational season for the Rams’ reserve grade team and they should be very proud!

Penrith’s season ended on Sunday. RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers have been eliminated from the NSW Women’s Premiership Finals after being thrashed by Mounties 28-4 last Sunday at Leichhardt Oval. Mounties ran in five tries to one in the demolition, with Chloe Pallisier getting the only try for the Panthers. The loss ends Penrith’s season, which saw them make Finals for the first time.

League team took out both the Premiership and the Nepean Cup. The Waratahs Premier League Squad were Premiership winners and Nepean Cup Champions, and the Waratah Reserves also took out the Premiership. The U14/1, U15/1, U21 men’s, Ruby League, and Waratah Premier Leagues squads will all represent Nepean Football Association in the coming weeks in the Football NSW Champion of Champions competition. FOOTBALL: Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed that young A-League Women’s star Talia Younis will head overseas to take part in exciting training opportunities with European giants Bayern Munich and Liverpool FC. One of Australian football’s brightest young talents, Younis has continued to impress throughout her development at the Wanderers, establishing herself as an exciting player for the future. Wanderers Football Director Mal Impiombato said the opportunity was an outstanding next step for Younis. “This is an incredible opportunity for Talia to experience two of the biggest football environments in the world and continue challenging herself at the highest level,” he said. “Talia is an exceptionally talented young player who has worked incredibly hard for opportunities like

Sydney Thunder star Heather Knight is back in lime green. CRICKET: Sydney Thunder’s first international signing for the upcoming WBBL|12 will see Heather Knight return to the lime green for a fifth season. The former England captain, who is locked in for one year, was awarded the Alex Blackwell Medal as Thunder’s Player of the Season in WBBL|11 after scoring 201 runs at an average of 28.71. Her standout performance came in the Sydney Smash, where she struck a season-high 65 against the Sixers. The 35-yearold also celebrated a significant milestone during last season, reaching 100 WBBL matches. Remarkably, WBBL|11 was the third time in four seasons with Thunder that Knight claimed the Alex Blackwell Medal, underlining her immense impact on the club. Alongside her on-field performances and leadership, Knight has embraced western Sydney as her second home during the Australian spring, forming an enduring connection with members, fans, teammates and coaching staff. “I’ve really enjoyed playing with the Sydney Thunder over the years,” Knight said. “It’s a fun group, a group that I’ve captained, and I think what Trent and Lisa are trying to do and trying to build

to is really special.” Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said: “Heather was a no-brainer for us. Her leadership, experience, and ability to adapt to whatever the team needs makes her incredibly important to this group.” AFLW: The GWS Giants have continued their losing ways, going down to the Sydney Swans 87-56 in Round 5 of the AFLW. A game-turning four-goal haul from Chloe Molloy helped the Swans claim bragging rights over their crosstown rivals. In some positive news for the women’s game in Sydney, more than 7,340 fans packed Henson Park for the Sydney Derby, setting a new venue record. The Giants will aim to snap their losing streak when they travel to Canberra on Sunday to face-off with Richmond at 12.35pm. AFL: The Penrith Rams put up a strong fight last Sunday but ultimately went down to the Balmain Tigers 48-41 in the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 5 Grand Final. The Rams led 13-9 after the first quarter before falling behind by 8 points heading into half-time. The third quarter

The Colo Cougars U21 men’s team. FOOTBALL: The Colo Cougars Soccer Club have enjoyed a very successful 2026 season in the Nepean Football Association. The U14/1 girls won both the Premiership and the Grand Final and also became Nepean Cup Champions. The club’s U15/1 boys team took out the Premiership while the 16/2 boys took out the Grand Final. The Intermediate men’s team were both Premiership and Grand Final winners while the U21 men’s team were Nepean Cup Champions. The club’s Ruby

this, and we’re extremely proud to see her take this next step. It’s also a fantastic reflection of the talent coming through Western Sydney and the pathway we continue to provide for young players with ambitions to reach the highest levels of the game.” GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also direct message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

THREE WIDE NO COVER: YOUR NEXT BET The boys have scoured the form guide and come up with their best tips for Saturday racing… @threewide_nocover

Randwick R9 - HEADWALL Was stuck in traffic first up over 1000m but closed well behind probably the best sprinter in the country in Tempted. Now has that fitness edge and an extra 100m will suit. Not an easy field to beat but could catch these off guard in a preferred shorter trip.

3. Headwall (5) J: Zac Loyd T: Matthew Smith W: 56.00kg

Morphettville R3 LIGHT THE NIGHT

Caulfield R7 COSMIC CRUSADER

Ran on strongly to win 2 starts ago fresh, then was closing distance on the leader crossing the line last time. It now gets its ideal distance over 1250 which it is unbeaten. Its has placed or better 5 out of its last 6 starts with Jason Holder on board. Will look to get straight on the speed from barrier 1 and be too strong late.

Has opened this campaign in great fashion, with two wins and a fantastic 3rd in the Memsie. Has raced this distance once which resulted in a G1 win in WA. A more favourable run this time should see him right in the finish.

6. Light The Night (1) J: Jason Holder T: AJ Gluyas W: 57.50kg

5. Cosmic Crusader (3) J: William Pike T: Andrea Leek W: 59.00kg

What’s gambling really costing you? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

Thursday, September 17, 2026 « the western weekender

SPORT

4736 4400

Penrith’s #1 NRL Coverage – Extra Time – see centre pull-out

• 24 Hour • Accident • Trade • General • All Vehicles • Bobcats • Forklifts • Machinery

FOR ALL YOUR TOWING NEEDS

LET’S GET QUACKING NATHAN TAYLOR

he Nepean Ducks will field an impressive six teams in this year’s Gridiron NSW competition, which gets underway this weekend at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct. In season 2026, the Ducks will run out two tackle football teams – Men’s and Colts – and four flag football teams – two in U14s, one in U16s and one in Women’s. Speaking with the Weekender, Nepean Ducks President Darren White said he’s excited that an U14 flag football age group has been introduced for the first time. “Gridiron NSW expanded on flag football this year by introducing an U14s division and increased the U15s to an U16’s division,” he said. “It’s phenomenal how much interest we’ve had in recent months. Lots of younger kids want to get involved in the U14s.” To capitalise on the interest of the sport in Australia, White said the NFL earlier this year promised to send every Aussie school an NFL Flag Football kit, which has worked a treat in terms of recruitment. “We ran a small social comp earlier in the year and we had a lot of interest in the younger ages,” White said. “With Gridiron NSW now introducing the U14s age group, it’s allowed us to get 13 and 14-yearolds involved at our club.” But it isn’t just flag football where

the Ducks are succeeding, their Men’s and Colts tackle football programs are also heating up. This year, the Ducks will be aiming for their fourth straight title in the Colts competition, which has undergone a minor change in the off-season. “The Colts age group has changed from 16-19 to 15-18,” White said. “We’ve recruited really strong once again but you never know how you’re going to go until the first game. I’ve got full faith in the coach Lachie Bignall and his staff, I think they’re in for a great season.” As for Nepean’s Men’s team, the club is also hopeful that good times are ahead. Following some lacklustre seasons in recent years, White is confident things will be different in 2026. “Last year the Men’s side got a couple of wins, which helped morale,” he said. “The preparation and recruitment this year has been pretty good! We’ve got some strong numbers and some talent across the board. “There’s a bit of hype around and the boys are keen to get going.” The 2026 Gridiron NSW season kicks off this Saturday at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct, with the Ducks Men’s team taking on the UTS Gators at 11am followed by the Ducks Colts team up against the Wollongong Mustangs in a Grand Final rematch at 5pm. The flag football matches will begin at 8am.

Photos: Jim Walker Photography.

LISTEN TO OUR

PENRITH PANTHERS PODCAST!

SEARCH WESTERN WEEKENDER WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO PODCASTS

HOSTED BY TROY DODDS AND NATHAN TAYLOR

OUT EVERY WEDNESDAY W W W.W E ST E R N W E E K E N D E R .COM.AU/P O D C A ST

58895

24 HOURS