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Fighting for their patch: Challenges facing High Street business owners
For years High Street has been no stranger to incidents of crime and homelessness, and now business owners along the main Penrith shopping strip are looking for ways to make the area safer for their customers.
Jess Jenkins from Mr Watkins, Kellie Fielding from Wicked Ink and Chilli Pizarro from Wicked Laser, among other business owners, have all helped people dealing with homelessness and crime along High Street but said the dual issues leave a “bad feeling” along the street.
“I think it is more the fact that we know some of them have nowhere to go… I’ve fed some of them… and we’ve all been buying them things because they don’t have anywhere to go, I don’t know what the solution to that is,” Feilding said.
“It’s concerning because families are coming through and seeing someone who is not quite with it and is a little bit off with the fairies and they are talking to themselves and that’s as the families are walking by.”
Pizarro explained that at times young children don’t feel safe coming to the street on their own.
“The feeling is uncomfortable… my daughter comes to visit me at work and says it is so scary to come around High Street,” Pizarro said.
“She is 11-years-old and asking why there are people talking to themselves and dressing inappropriately. So, if a child can see it, we have to give some attention to it.”
The business owners say it is important to address the issues now and implement fixes before the situation escalates.
“I don’t think we have a stereotype, and we don’t want it to get there. That’s why we wanted to talk about it because we want our customers and our community to feel safe coming here,” Jenkins said.
incident a day on the street that they deal with.
“Crime rates on High Street appear to be relatively stable. Over the past three months, the reported number of incidents on High Street range between 26 and 31 incidents per month,” a spokesperson for Nepean PAC said.
“High Street continues to be a target location for proactive policing strategies and will remain an ongoing tasking for police to conduct patrols and other related taskings. High Street is also listed as a target location on region led police operations.
“The Nepean PAC Crime Prevention Officer (CPO) has recently engaged with several external stakeholders where homelessness was discussed, and measures are being implemented to address the issue and assist homeless people.
“The CPO has also personally engaged with several businesses on High Street recently where this issue was discussed. The CPO will continue to liaise with business owners and external stakeholders in relation to homelessness.”
State Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown, acknowledged the issue of crime and homelessness on High Street but said the issue is complex.
“I’m aware of the homelessness situation and our office is proactive in offering referral services. We also make representations to police if we are aware of any antisocial behaviour, and I would urge all residents and businesses to do likewise,” McKeown said.
“I regularly attend the Community Safety Precinct committee meetings at Penrith Council which includes a number of stakeholders and police. At our recent meeting we discussed some specific concerns, and the police advised that they have moved a number of people on.
“That is the most important thing because it is our hub, it’s our community and it’s where people gather. They come to café’s, restaurants, tattoo parlours or doctors’ appointments and so for us it is really important that it doesn’t seep into the community where people are feeling unsafe up here. We want something done about it.
“We know there are services, they are not hard to access but some people don’t want to access them.
That is a bit of an issue. We want people to know that we see it and we’re trying to find solutions to it at the moment.”
Nepean Police Area Command
(Nepean PAC) said there are measures in place to try to combat the incidents of crime and homelessness on High Street but acknowledged there is nearly one
“Unfortunately, the individuals concerned have declined any offers of assistance. Many of these individuals have very complex situations.
“The police at this meeting also spoke to the recent crime statistics released and advised that there has not been a significant increase.
“I would advise everyone to report any incidents to police even if you feel it’s not important.”
Man critically injured after Penrith stabbing
Awoman has been charged after a 47-year-old man was left in a critical condition following a stabbing in Penrith on Tuesday morning.
The incident happened at a granny flat on Stafford Street near the Nepean Village shopping centre at around 1.15am.
Paramedics treated the man at the scene before he was taken to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition.
A short time later, police arrested a 29-year-
old woman on nearby Woodriff Street. She was taken to Nepean Hospital under police guard for assessment.
“The man and woman are believed to be known to each other,” a police spokesperson said on Tuesday.
Police established a crime scene on Stafford Street and commenced an investigation into the incident.
Late on Tuesday, police confirmed the woman was charged with ‘wound person intend to cause grievous bodily harm’ and ‘possess prohibited drug’. She was due to face court yesterday.
Chilli Pizarro, Kellie Feilding and Jess Jenkins on High Street. Photo: Melinda Jane.
EMILY CHATE
TROY DODDS
The scene at Stafford Street. Photo: Melinda Jane.
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From The Editor’s Desk
Troy Dodds
Around
Dutton backflip plays into Albo’s hands
Peter Dutton’s promise to force public sector workers in Canberra back to the office should have been an easy win for the Opposition Leader.
But it backfired spectacularly, largely because Labor managed to convince the public that the Coalition’s policy would spread to the private sector.
The truth is this policy impacted only a minuscule percentage of the Australian workforce; a percentage that most people would agree should probably not be working from home.
But Dutton simply couldn’t sell the right message and couldn’t cut through.
Labor meanwhile implemented a scare campaign that worked, and Dutton was left with no option but to backflip on the policy, a major setback in what has already been a dire start to his campaign.
It’s also a sign that Dutton needs to pull back on the Trump-lite tactics.
If the Coalition went into this election thinking it could run a campaign similar to what Donald Trump produced in the United States, it has read the room wrong.
It is true that Australians are over woke politics, and want someone with the strength of their convictions to ensure the country is in strong hands.
But it has never said it wanted Donald Trump II. Even those on the most right of politics in Australia would acknowledge that many of Trump’s policies are dangerous and concerning.
A carbon copy campaign was never going to work.
Mulgoa Road a real test for Albanese
The Coalition’s announcement last week that it would complete the final leg of the Mulgoa Road upgrade via a $117.5 million commitment was a big win for Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh.
But as this campaign rolls on, it will say a lot about Anthony Albanese and Labor’s commitment to Lindsay.
Labor has been completely lost on Mulgoa Road ever since it won the election back in 2022.
In 2023, it cut funding to Stage 2 of the
campaign in
project, as well as Stage 5A and 5B.
It was a ridiculous decision given the importance of this upgrade to a key area associated not only with population growth but the incoming airport at Badgerys Creek.
And Labor acknowledged that in 2024 when it backflipped on its decision to axe the funding to Stage 2 and restored it.
But it left Stage 5A and 5B in limbo, with the Coalition now saying it will finish the job if elected.
Politics aside, Labor must match this funding. It will be a slap in the face to Lindsay candidate Hollie McLean if Anthony Albanese doesn’t come to the table on it.
And if Labor refuses to back the project, it will prove it is not serious about Lindsay at this election. Can’t win the seat, won’t spend the money.
The next day Peter Dutton was kicking a football in a suit, managing to land his kick on the head of a camera man who needed medical attention.
Yawn.
Can we make this the last election campaign where this stuff is a regular part of the routine?
Nobody is buying it.
Nobody thinks Peter Dutton is desperate to kick a Sherrin so he can feel like he’s in the midst of whatever announcement he’s making.
Nobody is looking at Albo thinking his softer side has just emerged because he’s holding a baby he met two minutes ago.
News cycles have changed, people have changed. The stunts just don’t hit anymore. And just on that, I’m not sure either major political party has really adapted to the changing nature of news in this country.
If you’re not on the bus (the physical campaign bus, that is), you don’t matter, tends to be the scenario.
“If Labor refuses to back the project, it will prove it is not serious about Lindsay at this election”
If Labor doesn’t have proper knowledge on Mulgoa Road then it must refer to someone who does. It needs to get on the ground locally, realise what everyone already knows, and commit to the funding it stripped two years ago.
This could be Labor’s biggest test in Lindsay.
The last campaign like this I looked up at the TV screen that sits above my computer last week and spotted Anthony Albanese nursing a baby in an election photo opportunity I thought disappeared long ago.
But with independent, smaller media outlets growing and the obvious influencer impact, parties need to work on expanding their reach and thinking beyond the norms of 20 years ago, which I can assure you, hasn’t been happening.
Let’s call debate a draw
I don’t think either Anthony Albanese or Peter Dutton could call themselves victorious after the first debate of the campaign on Tuesday night.
Dutton landed a particularly strong blow when he asked an audience member if they’d needed their credit card as well as their Medicare card the last time they visited the doctor.
But there was too much waffle from Dutton, who is far better with shorter, sharper answers than he is long explanations.
Albanese did well at endearing himself to the crowd and certainly sold long-term costof-living relief better.
The audience on the night gave the debate to Albo.
That’s probably a concern for the Dutton camp, given Opposition Leaders usually have the inside running on these things.
troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au
@troydodds
Taking it to the streets: Can our mighty Panthers turn it around?
We’ve become used to winning in Penrith, but the Panthers have now lost four straight games and the mood around town is down.
This rocky start begs the question, can they still turn a four-year Premiership run into five?
“Not with the amount of spine they’ve lost and the amount of injuries that are coming through for the year,” said Corey from Workin’ Gear, who has a bet with his colleague that the Tigers will outdo Penrith this year.
“I just don’t think the Panthers have it in them.”
From the other side of the store, it’s safe to assume Rhett’s ears were burning as we talked about the possibility of another Panther premiership.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do, but they can still do it,” Rhett stated, disagreeing with his Tigers supporting friend.
“If they can do this one, that’ll make this Premiership the best yet because of how bad the season started, and I’ve got faith they can.”
Up the road at Family Dreamz Tattoo, everyone was on the same page, with Nick saying getting the fifth title will be hard, but the Panthers are capable.
“I’ve got plenty of faith in them, they can do it, they’ve just got to gel
together a bit better,” Nick said.
“All the younger guys coming through have got to learn from Nathan [Cleary] and Nathan’s got to steer them a bit.
a few recognisable faces in recent times.
“I’ve heard that it helps with forward strategy, so it definitely helps them with strategic thinking,” Ellen said, after saying she has faith in the team securing another premiership.
“Given their track record, I don’t see how it can’t happen again.”
Next to have a say was Salem, who doesn’t usually follow the NRL, but has made an exception for Penrith.
“I’m hoping for a five-run, it’d be absolutely fantastic,” Salem exclaimed.
“We’ve all got our faith in Ivan!” Rowan agreed and is optimistic about another Panthers Grand Final, but he’s also realistic.
“There’s stiff competition, I think. The other teams have stepped up their game too,” he added.
However, we hear our favourite team has a secret that may just lead them to victory.
At Mega Games Penrith, Ellen told us she’s sold some chess boards to
“Growing up, we followed State of Origin and that was all we did and now moving down here and being around this area, I really do hope that we can do this!”
As if all this Panther talk wasn’t energising enough, I decided to grab a coffee from Screaming Beans before my return to the office, where I bumped into another optimistic Panthers supporter.
“They’re capable of it,” Simon said about the five-peat.
“It’s going to be difficult, but you never know.”
NRL coverage: Centre pages.
Nick and Rowan. Photo: Melinda Jane.
ALLY HALL
Rhett and Corey: The blokes with a bet. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Ellen. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Salem. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Simon. Photo: Melinda Jane.
LAW and ORDER
COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE
Police Snapshot Legal Matters
Penrith: Man walking into oncoming traffic found to be carrying drugs.
At 1.10pm on Wednesday, April 2 police were called to Station Street in Penrith after reports of a man who appeared drug affected walking into oncoming traffic. Police attended and located the 26-year-old South Penrith man.
Police had a conversation with the man where he told them he had consumed ice. Police told the man he would be searched, and he handed police a small, clear resealable plastic bag containing methamphetamine.
Police then searched the man and his bag where they found three green coloured tablets.
The man was charged, and he will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, May 15.
Glenmore Park: Man sleeping in stolen car found with stolen goods
At 8.20am on Friday, April 4 police were alerted to a man who was asleep in a car on Bunda Place in Glenmore Park. Police attended and had a conversation with the 40-year-old man.
The man told police he was homeless and that was why he was sleeping in the car.
The man was asked to step out of the vehicle, which he did.
Checks were made on the car which showed it had been stolen from a car hire company on Monday, March 31.
Police also made checks on the man which showed he had an outstanding warrant against him.
Police searched the vehicle and inside they found six Oral B electronic toothbrushes, gloves, bolt cutters,
an angle grinder and a handheld radio.
The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police station where he was formally charged. The man will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, June 6.
Penrith: Notorious thief finally caught.
On Thursday, April 3 police linked a man to several incidents of retail theft.
Further checks showed that the male was also responsible for an additional five cases of fraud and three counts of stealing, all of which occurred between Wednesday, January 8 and Friday, March 28 of this year.
The 36-year-old Kemps Creek man would attend retail premises on High Street in Penrith and Star Court in Cambridge Gardens, pick up items and leave without paying for them.
The man would also attend service stations to fill his car with petrol before leaving without paying.
On Friday, April 4 police attended the man’s address in Kemps Creek where he was arrested.
He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, April 16.
Penrith: Man brandishing knife in the middle of the road arrested
At 3.50pm on Friday, April 4 police were called to Markham Avenue in Penrith after reports of a 52-year-old Penrith man armed with a knife yelling.
The man had walked into the middle of the road as a car approached and the 52-year-old then pointed the knife at the driver of the car. The driver had to swerve to avoid colliding with the 52-year-old.
The driver then called police. Police arrived and
arrested the 52-year-old man. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, May 30.
Cranebrook: Police searching for missing 12-year-old girl
Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from Cranebrook.
Maddison Wright, aged 12, was last seen on Barry Cole Place, Cranebrook, about 4.45pm on Friday, April 4.
When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.
Police hold concerns for Maddison’s welfare due to her age.
She is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 160cm – 165cm tall, of medium build, with dark brown hair and blue eyes. Maddison was last seen wearing a black Penrith Panthers jersey, shorts and purple Crocs.
She is known to frequent the Penrith, Cranebrook and Newcastle areas.
EXPLAINER: REMEDIES IN LITIGATION
Courts can do lots of things to remedy aggrievance suffered by one person or entity at the hands of another.
The kind of remedies available to a party to litigation depend on the kind of legal action that is being pursued.
The most common remedy in civil disputes is known as “damages”. Damages seek to put a person or entity in the position they would have been in but for the offending conduct of the other party to the litigation. For example, in the context of a breach of contract, the Court will seek to place the person who has suffered from the breach of contract in the position they would have been in if the contract was never breached. It is not a compensatory regime in the sense that the Court will not intervene to put the plaintiff in a better position than they would have been in had the breach never occurred. Damages normally come in the form of a sum of money that the Court determines reflects the loss that the aggrieved party has suffered.
It is critically important before you consider any litigation that you consider what your loss is. In some cases, a person or entity may have breached a legal duty to you but if you have suffered no loss, you may not recover anything at the conclusion of your legal proceedings. The most common context in which this occurs is negligence. For example, let’s say a lawyer gives a client incorrect and negligent legal advice. The Court will only intervene if that incorrect or negligent legal advice has actually resulted in loss to their client. If the client has suffered no loss, then essentially the Court has nothing to remedy even if the lawyer has been sinfully negligent at every turn.
While damages might be compensatory, there are types of legal action where the Court will intervene to compensate a person
for aggrievance they have suffered. The most common example of this is the personal injury space where a person may not have necessarily suffered a direct economic loss but the Court will intervene to compensate them for things like physical or mental injuries they have suffered. Courts in this jurisdiction can also award money to claimants for things like loss of earning capacity or income and in that way the remedy can be akin to damages.
Courts can also make orders in certain matters to compel a person or entity to do something or prohibit them from doing it.
For example an “injunction” is a type of Court order that stops a person or entity from undertaking a certain action or activity. For example, if an accountant resigns their employment and are subject to an employment contract that prevents them from soliciting clients of their former employer but they start contacting clients to move them to their new practice, the employer might make an application to the Court for an injunction preventing the former employee from soliciting any further clients.
An injunction is usually a smaller part of a broader case and is designed to “stem the bleeding” so to speak while the parties litigate more broadly.
In some disputes, an “account of profits” is an available remedy. To use the employee soliciting clients example, following the granting of an injunction the employer might take action against the former employee seeking an account of profits, that is that the former employee pay to the employer any profits it has made from the clients the former employee has solicited.
The list of remedies in this article are not exhaustive and are provided for demonstrative purposes only.
FRESH FIRST RESPONDERS GRADUATE
169 new firefighters were welcomed to the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) ranks at a graduation ceremony at the Emergency Services Academy in Orchard Hills last week. There were also 24 FRNSW personnel who graduated as Station Officers, stepping into a vital leadership role for their crews.
The new group of first responders hail from diverse backgrounds, such as teaching, carpentry, electrical, fitness, architecture and Defence personnel.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said he was proud of the new graduates.
“It takes a special kind of person to prioritise the safety of others ahead of their own and I have no doubt our newest recruits will create positive impacts in their communities for many years to come,” he said.
FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said: “Our newest recruits will join metropolitan and regional fire crews across the state, putting their intensive training into action.”
Showdown in the west
Albanese and Dutton go head-to-head in first debate of the election campaign
TROY DODDS
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have gone head-to-head in the first debate of the Federal Election campaign.
Hosted by Sky News, the debate was held in western Sydney at Wenty Leagues Club on Tuesday night.
It was a rather tame affair with no major curly questions or unexpected twists, though things got a little heated over Medicare funding and bulk billing.
Albanese told the forum the election was about “what happens next” after a period of challenge for Australians.
“You can’t control everything that happens and we know that in the world it is uncertain, but I’m absolutely certain of this – now is not the time to cut, now is not the time to look backwards. Now is the time to look forward,” he said.
Dutton agreed it had been a challenging time but said the government had contributed to that.
“People have seen the government make mistakes starting with The Voice and priorities that just haven’t accorded with your priorities,” he said.
The first question from the floor came from Michael, who asked how Australia would survive the “Trump pandemic” and the tariffs that would now impact Australia.
“Australia got the best deal of any country on the planet. 10 per cent is 10 per cent more than we would like but nobody got a better deal than us,” Albanese said.
“We’ll continue to negotiate with the United States, looking for a better deal for Australia.”
Dutton said he had been in Cabinet during the first Trump Presidency, and the Coalition had previously avoided tariffs being implemented on Australian exports.
The leaders had their first squabble over education funding, with the pair arguing over whether budgets had previously been cut.
They later battled over the Budget, with Dutton accusing Albanese of overseeing the biggest spending government in 40 years.
Other questions from the floor surrounded the Opposition’s proposed cap on international students and migration more broadly, the conflict in Gaza and Dutton’s nuclear energy plan.
Albanese was asked why he wouldn’t match the Opposition’s commitment to cut the fuel excise and deliver immediate cost-of-living relief, and said he would prefer
to focus on long-term, permanent solutions.
Dutton said: “Our argument is that we want to provide support immediately... the fuel tax is 50 cents in every litre and we’re reducing that to 25 cents a litre. We do it for 12 months and then we’ll reassess after that.”
One attendee, Ian, asked Dutton if he would extend the fuel excise cut for his entire term if elected. The Opposition Leader shadow boxed around the question and said the state of the economy in 12 months
would decide of that.
One woman asked about having to pay for medical appointments, calling for more Medicare funding.
“This is one of my government’s priorities,” Albanese said, before saying increased funding was aimed at increasing bulk billing rates.
“Labor created Medicare, will strengthen Medicare and will make sure in the future we get those bulk billing rates back up to 90 per cent.”
Dutton said: “I’ve heard the Prime Minister run this stunt before with
only needing your Medicare card. It’s not true. Bulk billing rates have decreased under this government.”
Dutton spoke about the Coalition’s health policies and funding commitments, saying he too was about lifting bulk billing rates.
That prompted Albanese to bring up previous Coalition policies that he says prompted bulk billing to enter freefall.
“That is factually incorrect,” Dutton retorted.
The two leaders will debate again later in the month in Parramatta.
Fatal chopper crash “avoidable”
Acatastrophic mid-air helicopter crash that killed a Glenmore Park woman and three others was preventable if a litany of technical and safety issues had been rectified.
Two Sea World helicopters collided above the Gold Coast Broadwater in January 2023, during the peak of the busy summer holiday season.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) handed down its final report into the crash on Wednesday, more than two years after the collision.
The report found an inbound taxiing call
from one of the helicopters failed to register to the second chopper boarding people on the helipad.
The first helicopter waited for a taxi call from the second helicopter to separate to avoid a mid-air collision but it never came.
The report said the departing pilot made the taxi call but it was not broadcast due to a fault in the antenna that had existed for days. That allowed it to receive calls but not deliver them.
The report found limitations in visibility from both helicopters, the failed radio transmissions, and competing priorities when looking at boats and other aircraft led to the mid-air crash.
The report also found Sea World Helicop-
ter’s system of radio calls, hand signals and conspicuity devices, intended to warn of the presence of another helicopter, was flawed.
The ATSB also found evidence that passengers on both of the helicopters were incorrectly restrained but couldn’t determine the level of contribution to their injuries.
Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said a number of the passengers were ejected from their seatbelts during the crash and if seatbelts had been properly fitted it may have led to more “survivability”.
New helicopters were introduced a week before the crash and were not fitted with company radio communications and no real-time maps of other helicopters.
Mitchell said these changes and others to
the company’s operations undermined the existing risk controls to prevent an aircraft crash.
Mitchell said the crash was entirely preventable, resulting in the worst possible outcome which was the loss of life.
“All of those failings led to a catastrophic outcome,” he said.
“In terms of how bad they were in themselves, each individual failing was only one part. You need to put all of them together for this outcome to have occurred, and the outcome couldn’t have been worse.”
Pilot Ashley Jenkinson, 40, British couple Ron and Diane Hughes, 65 and 57, and Glenmore Park mother Vanessa Tadros, 36, died in the crash.
Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton face off at the debate on Tuesday night. Photo: AAP.
SAVANNAH MEACHAM, AAP
News
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Council Briefs
Join us at
Mini MAKE RS
Wednesday 16 April 10am-1pm l City Park , Penrith
We dnesday 23 Ap ril 10am-1pm l Coachmans Park , St Mar ys
● You’re invited to our biggest Trees for Mum yet — we’re celebrating 18 years of remembering our local mums, Day (Sunday 11 May).
Join us from 8.30am–12pm at Caddens Road Park in Claremont Meadows for a great morning of planting trees.
Find out more and register at
● Don’t miss your chance to help shape the new playspace at Allsopp and Paterson Oval in Cambridge Park! Council is upgrading the area with new equipment, seating, landscaping, and more.
Share your ideas at before 11.59pm on Wednesday 16 April 2025.
This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government and delivered by Penrith City Council.
● Precinct-wide upgrades are happening at Monfarville Reserve, St Marys! A new two-lane cricket practice facility has been completed, and construction is underway on a new amenities building. The upgrade also includes landscaping and tree planting, enhancing the green space and natural beauty of the reserve.
New accessible pathways will connect the new amenities building and player dugouts. Council will also deliver a new playspace at Monfarville Reserve later this year.
The Monfarville Reserve upgrade is funded by the NSW Government and Penrith City Council.
● The Penrith Civic Centre, St Marys Council Service Desk and Penrith City Library’s three branches will be closed over the Easter long weekend from Friday 18 April to Monday 21 April, reopening on Tuesday 22 April 2025. The Library’s book chutes will also be closed over the long weekend. Library members can still access the online catalogue at
You can still lodge queries and access online services via our Online Services Portal at
Development Applications
The following Development Applications have been received by Council:
• Shane Duck DA25/0157
120 Woodriff Street, Penrith
Demolition of existing dwelling and alterations and additions to existing child care centre including increase in children numbers from 44 to 62 places and construction of new car park
Contact: Alexandra Pearce on 4732 7757
Closing Date: Sunday 27 April 2025
• Planning Portal Lodgements Mod25/0033
in children numbers from 80 to 96 places for Glenmore Park Child & Family Centre
Contact: Sufyan Nguyen on 4732 8568
Closing Date: Sunday 20 April 2025
• Janssen Group Pty Ltd Mod25/0036
29–31 Castlereagh Street, Penrith
co-living housing development including increase in room numbers from 19 to 20 rooms, amendments to rooms and 17 x double occupancy rooms and internal layout and external façade changes
Contact: Lauren Van Etten on 4732 8222
Closing Date: Sunday 20 April 2025
The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via be able to assist with your enquiries.
By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit
cupboard prize
Code Camp is where parents of kids aged 5-13 years discover fun school holiday activities and after-school programs that empower children to get creative with technology.
The camps take place over two to three days at over 100 schools across Australia.
Whether your child is a future coder, a Minecraft fan, a future innovator or a content creator in the making, there’s a camp for them.
To learn all there is to know about Code Camp, visit www. codecamp.com.au.
We’re giving away a Code Camp voucher valued at $450 (only available for one booking).
The Weekender has a Code
paceway winners lucky
Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender Club members can pick up a free specially numbered
bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.
Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-
Camp voucher to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender. com.au with ‘Code’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, April 18 and the winner will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender. com.au or Weekender reception.
way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out
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LAST WEEK’S ANSWER
The colourful mural of an emu is located at the playground of the Lennox Village Shopping Centre in Emu Plains. Have you seen this while out and about?
The Penrith medical centre that is charging patients $30 for simply changing the name on a referral. In a cost-of-living crisis, it’s a ridiculous and disappointing fee.
The awesome Easter Hat Parades happening around local schools this week and next. It’s great to see the smiling faces of kids as they spot their parents in the crowd.
Mental health a key focus
Labor will increase funding for free mental health support if it wins the election next month.
The commitment will see more Australians having access to free mental health support under a $1 billion promise.
The funding pledge includes $225 million to either rebuild or upgrade 31 walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres, which offer free and immediate mental health support to anyone, with or without a Medicare card.
$200 million will be spent on building, upgrading or expanding 58 headspace services for young people aged between 12-25-yearsold.
$90 million will support more than 1,200 training places for mental health professionals and peer workers.
$500 million will go to 20 Youth Specialist Care Centres for young people with complex needs outside of a hospital setting including those with psychosis, moderate to severe mood and anxiety disorders, eating
disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders and neurodevelopmental concerns.
Labor Candidate for Lindsay Hollie McLean said the funding would make a real difference for the community.
“I know all too well the impact that mental ill health can have on individuals, their families, friends and loved ones – and how difficult it can be to access support when it’s needed,” McLean said.
“This announcement of an additional $1 billion investment in
frontline mental health programs and clinicians is a very welcome step towards helping people access the support they need during difficult times.
“I’m pleased that the stigma surrounding mental health struggles is decreasing; however, there is still more work to be done. This announcement recognises that the need to seek help at different stages of life is a widespread reality – and our goal is to ensure that support is available when it’s needed.”
The Coalition has announced
it would invest $400 million into youth mental health if elected as well as expand early psychosis youth services, expand the capacity of existing headspace centres, reinstate 20 Medicare subsidised psychology sessions per year and expand the remit of the national Centre for Excellence in Youth Mental Health.
Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh said the Coalition’s mental health plan will boost services for Australians.
“As the Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide
Prevention, I fought against the Albanese Labor Government’s halving of Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions. This cut by the government ripped away support from 372,000 vulnerable Australians,” McIntosh said.
“A Dutton Coalition government will reverse the government’s decision and make sure Australians have access to 20 Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions.
“I’ve had local families contact me saying they are unable to afford on-going psychology appointments given the current rate of 10 per year.
“The Liberal Party has committed to investing an additional $900 million to support mental health, which includes $500 million to increase the number of mental health sessions to 20.”
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman praised both major parties’ commitments to mental health.
“These commitments, from the major parties, are considerable investments that will make a real difference to the mental health of all people in Australia, particularly young people who we know are really doing it tough right now,” she said.
“Direct hit to western Sydney”: Split over international students
Aplan to cut international student numbers will get more Australians into homes, the Coalition says, while critics argue the policy will do little to reduce housing pressures.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton unveiled the campaign pledge in Melbourne on Sunday, promising that if elected, he will bring foreign student arrivals down by 80,000 a year – 30,000 fewer places than under Labor’s caps.
The move would result in the number of new international students being cut from a high of 320,000 in 2023 to around 240,000.
“The housing situation in this country is a mess at the moment,” Dutton told reporters.
“I want to make sure that we can get young Australians into houses ... that’s really our main priority here.”
The Opposition Leader did not say if the Coalition had modelling to show its student cap would free up houses or reduce rental pressure.
When confronted with University of Australia modelling that found each international student contributes about $72,000 to the economy a year, Dutton backed the proposed cuts.
He said the international student
market was lucrative for universities but Australia was an outlier compared with the domestic and international student mix in
“There has just been a complete racket under way over the last few years where Australians have been locked out of housing,” he said.
“Yes, the G8 (Group of Eight universities) have made a lot of money … our problem is that it’s been distortionary to the housing
Federal Immigration Minister Tony Burke and Education Minister Jason Clare described Dutton’s policies as “all over the place”.
“The same Opposition Leader who spent an entire term of government opposing extra housing being built and opposed caps on student numbers now says he wants a cap on students to help with housing,” they said in a joint statement on Sunday.
University and business groups also warned the proposed cuts would be akin to “taking a sledgehammer to one of the nation’s biggest income generators”.
Universities
Australia Chief Executive Luke Sheehy said international students are worth more than $50 billion a year to the economy, support more than 250,000 jobs and make up less than six per cent of the national rental market.
“Every dollar from international students is reinvested into the university system,” he said.
“Reducing that income stream will mean less support for Australian students, fewer research breakthroughs and fewer opportunities to grow the skills our economy needs.”
Student Accommodation Council Executive Director Torie Brown said the focus should be on building purpose-built student housing, not undermining “one of our largest export industries”.
Executive Director of Business Western Sydney, David Borger, said the importance of international students to western Sydney must be considered, clearly rallying against the policy.
“International education is a powerhouse Australian export,” he said.
“From Liverpool to Bankstown, Parramatta and Penrith, western Sydney is home to vibrant campus cities, where the region’s economy and global reputation is built on the back of international students.
“We’ve been clear with both major parties for over a year now – hurting international students is a direct hit to western Sydney.”
Peter Dutton is pushing for a reduction in international student numbers.
SAMANTHA LOCK, AAP & TROY DODDS
Funds for Mulgoa Road
Coalition commits to build final stage of upgrade; Labor yet to match promise
The Coalition would fund the final stage of the Mulgoa Road upgrade if it wins next month’s Federal Election.
The commitment – not matched by Labor at this stage – was announced by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton last week, along with a number of other major western Sydney funding commitments.
“I want western Sydney to be the economic powerhouse that we know it can be. Part of that is ensuring we build the roads and the infrastructure that western Sydney needs,” Dutton said.
“A Government that I lead understands that investing in infrastructure is crucial to realising western Sydney’s full potential.
“These investments will be a game changer for western Sydney: it will mean better roads and less congestion. It will mean less time spent on roads and in traffic and more time spent with your family.
“It will also take pressure off the broader Sydney network which we know is critical. Greater Western Sydney’s population is projected to hit 3.2 million by 2036. We must invest now to keep pace with this growth and make sure the community doesn’t fall behind.”
The funding is for Stages 5A and 5B, which takes in Blaikie Road to Jamison Road and then Jamison Road to Union Road. At this stage, this section has planning funding only. Labor removed funding to build this section in 2023.
In addition to the Mulgoa Road upgrade, $18.8 million will also
go to businesses cases to upgrade previously semi rural roads that will be important to the movement of freight to and from the Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), and $15 million to plan future upgrades to the Old Windsor Road-Windsor Road corridor and Werrington Arterial Stage Two business case.
Federal Member for Lindsay and Shadow Minister for Western Sydney, Melissa McIntosh, welcomed the commitment.
“The Albanese Labor Government ripped away funding from Mulgoa Road, leaving the people of our community with an unfinished upgrade between Blaikie Road to Union Road,” she said.
“... we announced the a Dutton Liberal Government
will restore this funding and get the Mulgoa Road upgrade back on track. I know how important finishing this upgrade to Mulgoa Road is for our Glenmore Park, Regentivlle, Jamisontown and South Penrith residents, and everyone who travels along that road. In addition, Luddenham Road needs planning funding for an upgrade to make sure the pot-holed road leading to our new Airport is fit for purpose.”
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney called on Labor to match the Coalition’s commitment to Mulgoa Road.
“Penrith Council has been calling for funding for some time to complete the missing upgrade link on Mulgoa Road, and I look forward to this announcement being matched by the Australian Government,” he said.
“Upgrading Mulgoa Road is
essential to close gaps in Penrith’s busiest arterial corridor, supporting regional north-south connectivity and future economic and residential growth.”
Labor candidate for Lindsay Hollie McLean took a swipe at the Coalition’s commitment.
“The Liberals took western Sydney for granted with 10 years of not investing in the infrastructure it needs,” McLean said.
“Peter Dutton has picked one infrastructure project in Lindsay to commit funding to. This is in contrast to the billions of dollars across multiple region defining projects the Albanese government has backed, is backing, and will back, because this government fundamental believes in the opportunity and promise of western Sydney and its people.”
Melissa McIntosh at Mulgoa Road. Photo: Megan Dunn.
Albanese backs batteries
Labor’s new plan to reduce electricity prices after broken promise of last campaign
Home owners are being offered $4000 off the cost of household batteries as Labor tries to woo voters with promises of cheaper energy.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pitched the election as a contest between the government’s immediate electricity cost relief and the Coalition’s nuclear power plan.
“It makes the choice crystal clear,” Albanese said on Sunday.
“Wait until sometime in the 2040s for more expensive nuclear energy under the Liberals or save money this year and every year afterwards with solar power under Labor.”
The subsidies, which would kick in from
July 1 if the government is re-elected, would reduce the cost of a typical battery by 30 per cent.
While one in three homes have solar panels, only one in 40 households have batteries due to the high up-front cost, averaging around $14,000 per unit.
That means most consumers are unable to draw on excess solar power, generated during periods of peak supply during the day, at periods of peak demand at night.
A regular household taking advantage of the incentive to purchase a new solar and battery system can expect savings of up to $2300 a year – or 90 per cent – off their energy bill,
government analysis shows. Households with existing rooftop solar could save up to $1100 per year.
Labor has upped its focus on cutting energy prices to help with the cost of living, following a failed pledge to lower bills by $275 at the last election in 2022.
The battery subsidies build on an existing scheme to reduce the cost of solar installation and follow a promise to extend power bill rebates for another six months.
Australians who don’t take part in the scheme would also benefit as it would push down electricity demand during peak periods, reducing prices for the broader market.
The government expects the subsidies to cost taxpayers $2.3 billion and drive sales of batteries to one million by 2030.
Business owners and community organisations will also be able to access the subsidies.
The Clean Energy Council labelled it a significant and welcome cost-of-living measure.
“A national battery scheme will ensure more households will be empowered to turbocharge their energy independence and save on their bills,” said the Council’s General Manager of Distributed Energy, Con Hristodoulidis.
“It’s good news for everybody’s wallets and the long-term future of Australia’s modern energy system, built on the cheapest form of renewable energy backed by storage.”
“It’s
good news for everybody’s wallets and the long-term future of Australia’s modern energy system”
The Coalition has previously flagged a home battery policy of their own but opposition housing spokesman Andrew Sukkar refused to confirm whether his party would match the policy, labelling the subsidy “an admission of failure”.
“What Anthony Albanese seems to be saying is because energy prices are going to be so high, we will give some people who can afford $10,000 for a battery ... allow them to get off the grid, presumably,” he told Sky News.
Meanwhile, the cost of the Coalition’s nuclear energy plan is under the spotlight as Labor claims it will cost $5.7 billion a year in interest over the next decade.
The Coalition claims its nuclear plan is 44 per cent cheaper than the Albanese government’s plan to shift the grid to renewables, backed up with storage and gas.
But Labor has put a $600 billion price tag on the opposition’s plan to build seven nuclear reactors across five states on the sites of coalfired power stations.
The Coalition’s plan was “nuclear insanity” that would blow out the Commonwealth’s budget, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Getting young people back on track via specialist support
The Federal and State Governments have come together to connect disadvantaged young people with education, training and employment opportunities in NSW.
Both governments are investing $5 million into the Get Back in the Game Program, which helps local organisations deliver specialist support to young people aged between 15 and 21-years-old.
NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan visited Yourtown in St Marys last week to celebrate the funding announcement and said empowering our youth is crucial to building a stronger future for NSW.
“I’ve met some of the young people who have benefited from this program – it quite literally has changed their lives. Form being disengaged from school to building a career. It is producing results for young people,” Whan said.
“By investing in skills training and education opportunities, we are ensuring that no young person is left behind. This program will provide essential pathways for those who need it the most.”
Yourtown in St Marys is one support service centre that will benefit from the Get Back in
the Game funding with Program Manager Sue Watson saying that the funding will make a real difference for disengaged youth.
“Yourtown works together with young people to uncover and supercharge their strengths, providing the practical training,
education and skills development they need to land a job and break the cycle of unemployment,” Watson said.
“Our program creates pathways to help young people unlock their potential and achieve a bright future.
“This funding makes a real difference to these young people.”
One participant of the program in St Marys, Mason Crosby, said it has helped him get all the skills he needs to get into the workforce.
“Yesterday I got a call from an apprenticeship place, and I have a job interview scheduled as soon as I get the necessities required for it,” Crosby said.
“This place has helped me in leaps and bounds.”
The funding is expected to support roughly 1,400 young people a year who may not have reached their full potential.
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Get Back in the Game Program will help to tackle the intergenerational disadvantage that effects communities across NSW.
“This is all about helping more young people get great training, get a great job and get ahead,” Chalmers said.
“No matter who you are or where you live, you deserve a decent education and a decent opportunity to earn a good living and provide for your loved ones.
“We’re backing local organisations to give local kids the opportunities they need and deserve. Programs like this one will helps us tackle intergenerational disadvantage in communities right around Australia where a national approach on its own will never be enough.”
Melissa’s Message
The weekly views of the Federal Member for Lindsay
A win for Lindsay
As the Federal Member for Lindsay, I know just how frustrating it is to sit in traffic on Mulgoa Road. Like many locals, I’ve spent too many mornings and weekends crawling along that stretch between Glenmore Park and Penrith — losing precious time with family, running late for appointments, or just trying to get to work.
That’s why I’m proud to have announced along with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, that we will return funding for the Mulgoa Road upgrade — Stages 5A and 5B — covering Blaikie Road to Jamison Road and Jamison Road to Union Road. The Albanese Labor Government ripped this funding away from our community, and we’ve committed $117.5 million to get this upgrade back on track.
In addition to easing congestion for
locals in Jamisontown, South Penrith, Regentville, and Glenmore Park this upgrade is essential to connect our community with major infrastructure and services like Nepean Hospital, Penrith CBD, the M4, and the new Western Sydney International Airport when it opens.
This isn’t just about fixing traffic — it’s about planning for our future. With western Sydney growing rapidly, we need smart, forward-thinking investment in the infrastructure that supports our way of life. The funding reflects our commitment to safer roads, shorter travel times, and less stress for local families, workers, and small businesses.
Unlike Labor, which has delayed and cut funding for key infrastructure projects in our region, the Liberals are committed to building for the future. We understand that good planning today leads to better results tomorrow.
Our announcement is a win for our community — and I’ll always fight for the infrastructure Western Sydney needs and deserves, that keeps up with our growth, supports our economy, and gets people home faster and safer. Only a Dutton Coalition government will get western Sydney back on track.
MELISSA MCINTOSH Federal Member for Lindsay
Minister Steve Whan visiting YourTown in St Marys last week. Photo: Melinda Jane.
EMILY CHATE
THURSDAY, 1 7 APR 2025 | 7PM
Interim safety improvements confirmed for Elizabeth Drive
EMILY CHATE
Two interim safety improvements have been implemented on Elizabeth Drive as Transport for NSW (TfNSW) urges drivers to be more truck aware.
There is now a pedestrian island outside the local soccer fields for safer pedestrian crossing to the Kemps Creek retail strip opposite it.
The work also includes a new median turning lane and limited parking, to make it easier and safer for vehicles to turn off the road and reduce the number of pedestrians on the road.
The second interim safety improvement planned on Elizabeth Drive is for a right turn lane and safe waiting space at the Western Road intersection, this work will start in the coming months.
The interim safety measures have been put in place as planning continues on the full four-lane Elizabeth Drive upgrade between the future M12 Motorway and Devonshire Road.
As part of more permanent
works, the Elizabeth Drive and Badgerys Creek Road intersection will open shortly in a new configuration of a four-way intersection with traffic lights on separate carriageways.
The work is expected to be completed by April 14.
This important work will allow Transport for NSW to continue upgrading a 2km section of Elizabeth Drive from two lanes into four lanes.
As part of a commitment to road safety, TfNSW has also launched a Be Truck Aware campaign which will be rolled out around the airport precinct and surrounding areas.
Most new trucks are equipped with high-tech
Mayor’s News
The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor
Stay connected with our community through Our Place
We may be a growing, thriving City with exciting change underway – but one thing that remains consistent is the tight-knit nature and community spirit of the Penrith local government area.
Penrith City Council recently engaged with our welcoming, inclusive and connected community through surveys, workshops and events in developing the Penrith 2041+ Community Strategic Plan (CSP)
Residents can learn about the results of those positive engagement initiatives, along with other exciting updates, in the Autumn 2025 edition of Our PlaceCouncil’s quarterly newsletter that aims to inform and stay connected with our community.
With the latest edition on its way, Council is proud to continue sharing important news with our readers. In fact, the recently added ‘In the News’ section of our community-focused publication celebrates a range of wins for our City.
Those of you who are eager for project updates or playspace upgrades in the area
The new refuge and turning lane.
safety and Telematics technologies, and TfNSW are providing free Fresnel lenses for older vehicles to improve safety and visibility.
From 2019-2023, 19 per cent of crashes in the Western Sydney Airport Precinct involved heavy vehicles, more than twice the state average.
While there have been significant increases in activity across this region, it is important the community and motorists work together as road safety is a shared responsibility.
TfNSW is urging drivers to stay alert when travelling around the precinct and pay special attention to Heavy Vehicles who have large blind spots and take longer to stop.
will be pleased to find exactly that in this edition of Our Place
We have some fun activities and events listed for readers hoping to fill their calendars over the coming months. There’s even a section specifically for parents and carers wanting to get out and about with our youngest residents during the Easter school holidays.
Council loves to reflect on success in the community – and we also like to look forward. Another key aspect covered in the newsletter is our continued advocacy efforts to futureproof this great City.
We want to manage growth well for our community, through the strategic coordination of investment. That’s why we continue to advocate on your behalf, to ensure the needs and expectations of our evolving community are met.
You can find out more about these priorities, and so much more, in Our Place
Keep an eye out for your hard copy, or visit penrith.city/ourplace to read the digital edition.
CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith
PLEDGE TO SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS
Find out how you can support your paper at www.westernweekender.com.au/pledge.
The Be Truck Aware campaign truck.
Nepean Private Hospital is pioneering new technology when it comes to knee replacements with robotic assistance, and Orthopaedic Surgeon Simon Coffey was the first in the nation to use the Apollo system.
The surgeon explained the new technology provides premium precision and extra personalised plans for patients.
“It gives us the ability to measure the alignment of the knee, and also how soft tissues balance around the knee, which gives us the capacity to combine balance and alignment when we do the surgery,” Coffey said.
Surgeons can estimate these parameters, but Apollo makes the process more individualised.
“Some people are a little knock-kneed, some people are a little bow-legged… We plan the surgery around their individual pre-existing characteristics, and in doing so, it speeds up their recovery by not having to do as much soft tissue manipulation, and that’s really what the robot helps us with,” Coffey explained.
The process starts with a 3D model of a patient’s knee, which is then robotically assessed for its range of motion. With that data, the surgeon uses Apollo to adjust the planned placement of the total knee components.
With the plan in place, the surgeon can use the Apollo robotic cutting guide to assist with the removal of the arthritic knee surface – and according to Coffey, this is more important now than ever.
“Around Australia there’s over 60,000 knee replacements done every year and they’re becoming more common, both in older patients but also in the younger patient population; partly because of obesity rates, but also other injuries and degeneration,” he said.
And the arrival of the robot in Penrith is a rarity.
“The fact that it’s only available at Nepean Private at the moment is a real positive for the patients in the area,” Coffey declared.
“Often the western Sydney patients are the ones that are not the first to get things, but in this case they are.”
Amongst this exciting news, the Orthopaedic Department Head wants to assure locals of one thing.
“The surgeon remains in control,” Coffey reassured.
“We’re not being driven by the robot; we use it as a tool to improve our precision and our accuracy with the surgery.”
Anyone in need of a knee replacement can rest assured they’ll be receiving the best care at Nepean Private.
This story ran first online at www.westernweekender.com.au. Visit our website for news as it breaks through the week.
Dr Simon Coffey is a fan of the new technology.
The new Apollo system.
ALLY HALL
Why now is the best time to get your flu shot as winter nears
We’re fast approaching winter – also known as runny nose, chesty cough and sick leave season.
It’s like a dream for the influenza virus, but we can turn it into a nightmare by taking one very important preventative measure.
“Getting vaccinated against the flu is the best way for you to protect yourself against the virus,” said pharmacist Amrit Kaur, who administers vaccines at TerryWhite Chemmart Penrith Compounding.
“You also get to protect the people around you because you’re building your immunity against the virus so you’re less likely to spread it.”
According to the expert, now is the best time to get vaccinated.
“I usually recommend starting in April or May because that gives you enough time to build immunity,” Kaur explained.
“The vaccination takes about two weeks for you to get full immunity.”
The pharmacist recommends all locals get the jab because the flu isn’t something to underestimate.
“The flu is not just like a bad cold, it’s much more serious, especially in patients who are more high risk,” Kaur warned.
“That would include young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and patients who have low immunity.”
At-risk groups are prone to developing infections if they catch the highly contagious virus.
“These at-risk groups tend to get infections like sinus infections, ear infections, and pneumonia,” Kaur stated.
“It affects the respiratory system, it can cause heart attacks, hospitalisations… and worst-case scenario, death.”
On the bright side, it appears Penrith residents are on top of their flu shots this year, with early numbers coming into the pharmacy already strong.
“I average around eight to 10 patients in a day, and I’ve seen that increase in the last two weeks,”
Kaur said, after mentioning she’s now administered a couple of hundred shots this year.
For those who are putting it off, Kaur has an important message to take in right now.
“I know sometimes getting a booking is difficult, but we do a lot of walk-ins,” Kaur said.
“It takes five seconds for me to jab someone, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Sydney features a variety of nostalgia-packed, interactive set recreations – including Monica’s apartment and the iconic ‘Friends’ fountain – providing guests with plenty of opportunities to explore the show’s history and recreate their favourite scenes.
You can pose on the iconic orange couch, sit at Monica and Rachel’s kitchen table, kick
back and relax in Joey and Chandler’s comfy chairs, and so much more.
An onsite The FRIENDS Experience retail store featuring exclusive products will also remain open to both ticketed and non-ticketed guests.
The FRIENDS experience is at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, Lower-Level GPO Building at No 1 Martin Place.
All ages are welcome. Guests aged 14 and under must be accompanied by a ticketed
adult who is 18 years or over. Children aged two and under don’t need a ticket when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Tickets are priced from $25 and are exclusively on sale via Ticketek both online and on location. Visit www.friendstheexperience. com.au.
The Western Weekender is giving 10 lucky readers the opportunity to experience
‘The One From Penrith’, featuring a double pass to see The FRIENDS Experience in
Sydney on Thursday, April 24 (evening), a $200 merchandise pack and transport via bus. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Friends’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Monday, April 14 and the winners will be notified by email and/or call. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.
Amrit Kaur is ready to deliver flu shots. Photo: Melinda Jane
ALLY HALL
Au thor Talks at Pe nrit h Ci ty Librar y
Hear about the latest titles by these amazing Australian Authors. Books will be available for sales and signing.
Jamila Rizvi & Rosie Waterland
Monday 5 May | 6.30pm
Penrith City Library
Jamila Rizvi and Rosie Waterland discuss their new book Broken Brains, a personal book about physical and mental brain health and how they coexist in two very different spaces. This event will be Auslan interpreted.
Amanda Hampson
Thursday 8 May | 6.30pm
Penrith City Library
Join award-winning Australian author Amanda Hampson to talk about her latest Tea Ladies mystery, The Deadly Dispute. This delightfully intriguing series has captured readers around Australia.
Jock Serong Sydney Writers’ Festival
Wednesday 21 May | 6.30pm
Penrith City Library
Award-winning author Jock Serong in conversation with Amy Sambrooke about his latest novel Cherrywood, an imaginative, darkly playful and deeply meaningful book.
YA Author Talk Tegan Bennett Daylight
Wednesday 28 May | 6.30pm | Ages 13+
Penrith City Library
Join local author Tegan Bennett Daylight in conversation discussing her latest young adult novel How to Survive 1985, themselves thrown back in time to 1985.
Bookings required.
Scan the QR code for bookings and more information, or call the Library on 4732 7891.
penrith.city/library
Icon forever remembered
Permanent
tribute installed to Penrith’s ‘Pen Man’, who touched so many lives
Penrith’s beloved ‘Pen Man’ has been honoured with a memorial plaque near the Penrith Plaza.
John ‘Pen Man’ Boccanfuso OAM was in a serious accident at 12-years-old that left him with brain damage. He then spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair.
In 1974, disability charity Aruma (formerly known as House with No Steps), arranged for Boccanfuso to sell fundraising pens in Parramatta. He soon moved on to selling the pens in Penrith, which became his home for the next half century.
For years he worked seven days a week selling his pens, leaving the nursing home that would be his residence for many years between 10am and 2pm.
The news of his passing last year touched the Penrith community with hundreds of tributes flowing in on social media and temporary memorials.
Former Penrith City Councillor Marlene Shipley last year expressed her wish for the community to have a permanent plaque that would forever honour the ‘Pen Man’ and the enormous contribution he gave to the local community.
Last week, Shipley was joined by Penrith Mayor Todd Carney to unveil the memorial in the gardens of the Penrith Civic Centre, close by to where Boccanfuso would sell his pens at the shopping centre.
“This is a special moment where our city is able to permanently recognise the incredible contribution that John Boccanfuso made in the lives of many in Penrith and beyond,”
Carney said.
“John sold more than one million pens for charity over almost 50 years, but it was his infectious enthusiasm that saw him become a
recognisable figure selling pens in Westfield.”
Shipley said Boccanfuso was a true icon of Penrith.
“Everyone knew John, and equally John knew everyone,” Shipley said.
“There wouldn’t be anyone in Penrith who didn’t know John, or the extraordinary work he did to support the ‘House with No Steps’.
“At the time of John’s passing I felt it was
important for Penrith to honour him and provide an everlasting memorial for the impact he had on so many.”
The plaque’s inscription reads: “John always led by example promoting social inclusion of those living with disability. Your tireless fundraising for others will always be remembered. The Penrith community will miss you dearly.”
Mayor Todd Carney and former Councillor Marlene Shipley with the memorial plaque. The memorial plaque.
Nominate Penrith’s best
Local Business Awards returns! Your chance to support your favourite businesses
The Penrith City Local Business Awards is back, and founder Steve Loe has called on the community to nominate their favourite businesses.
Nominations for the 2025 Penrith City Local Business Awards open on Monday, April 14 and will close on Tuesday, May 13, with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening on Wednesday, July 16.
The Precedent Productions Managing Director, who founded the awards four decades ago, said it was an opportunity for members of the community to encourage and show appreciation for outstanding providers of goods and services.
“Business owners, managers and staff work hard and often go above and beyond to help their clients and customers,” Loe said.
“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people,
who are the backbone of our community.”
Voting for your favourite business is as simple as visiting the Local Business Awards website at www. thebusinessawards.com.au.
Loe said businesses could also self-nominate to show staff how much their efforts were valued.
The Penrith City Local Business Awards are made possible by the ongoing support of Presenting Partner Commonwealth Bank; Major Partners NOVA Employment and Western Sydney Conference Centre; and Support Partners Southlands Shopping Centre, Penrith Homemaker Centre, Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, BOA, Nepean Regional Security, and White Key Marketing.
Commonwealth Bank General Manager for Small Business Banking NSW, Shaun Stevens said:
“Small businesses are the engine
of the Australian economy, and the heartbeat of our communities. They have shown incredible resilience in the face of various challenges over the last few years, which is why we’re proud to once again partner with the Local Business Awards to recognise the vital role small businesses play in their communities.”
Loe said the Awards Partners wanted to support the efforts of Penrith City businesses and acknowledge their important role in the community.
The Western Weekender will provide updates on the progress of the Awards program and will also run a special Finalists Feature and Winners Feature later in the year to recognise those celebrated.
For further information on the 2025 Penrith City Local Business Awards, call Precedent Productions on 8363 3333 or visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
Walk sparks newfound compassion
Access to clean water is a luxury, and students from a local high school experienced first-hand how difficult it is for those in impoverished countries to access it.
Penola Catholic College students participated in a ‘Walk with Water’ at the Yandhai Nepean Crossing on Monday morning as part of Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion.
“We started the walk with a big assembly of people, and we all got our buckets of water,” said Carla Dura, a 16-year-old student at Penola.
“The people running it were telling us about why this was important and how we were raising awareness for less fortunate people that have to go on
long walks for water.”
During the walk, the students passed locals and explained what they were doing.
“We started conversations with them, and they were asking us how we were going and what the walk was for,” explained Jack O’Donnell, another Penola student.
“We explained it was for people in developing countries that walk between four to nine kilometres to get water for their families.
“It made us realise what it would feel like to walk in other people’s shoes and reminded us of how lucky we are.”
After the four-kilometre trek, the students formed groups to talk about what the experience meant to them.
“It was a great opportunity for us to feel empathy and connect
with people in more impoverished countries,” Carla stated.
“This initiative was really good to put into perspective how people live and helped us realise there are things we can do.”
And that was the exact result the school was hoping to achieve according to Faith in Action Coordinator Mitchell Sutton.
“The school is involved in these sorts of initiatives all the time as a way for our students to connect to people not just abroad, but also to understand how Australians are struggling as well,” Sutton explained.
“It breeds a broader empathy.”
Other schools that joined the walk included St Clare’s Catholic High School, St Agnes Catholic High School, Nagle College, and St John’s Primary. Carla
come in during business hours: �������� 02 4761 3210 �������� Monday- Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm
happy to assist you! � 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown
Bill McDeed from Gourmet Meat Co accepts an award at the Penrith Local Business Awards.
and Jack leading students walking with water. Photo: Stuart Matters.
ALLY HALL
PENRITH’S PRIORITIES
Advocating for our thriving City
Penrith is transforming – residents, businesses and investors can all see the change occurring in and around the City.
Penrith City Council is ready for this period of growth and has been thoughtfully planning the next steps, to ensure our City continues to succeed and meet the changing needs and expectations of our evolving community, now and into the future.
“I am truly excited for what’s to come for this great City and its people,” Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said.
“Council has been working hard to set out clear aspirations for Penrith, a thriving region that is powering social and economic growth in western Sydney,” he said.
“With a Federal election within weeks, we are sharpening our focus and calling on the Australian and NSW Governments to play their part in realising the shared vision for Penrith.”
Penrith’s population is projected to increase by 51,000, from approximately
220,000 residents in 2021 to 271, 000 by 2041, which sees a 23 per cent increase. Council is helping facilitate a significant amount of the required housing supply for Sydney, as
well as provide employment lands to deliver more jobs.
Council’s newly endorsed Advocacy Strategy 2025 outlines priority projects and initiatives where support is
needed to achieve the greater vision for Penrith.
Council is leading the charge for well-managed growth – calling on other levels of government and
stakeholders to collaborate and harness opportunities that will achieve the best outcomes for the Penrith Local Government Area.
The focus is on delivering a
connected City, infrastructure to support housing growth, responsible flood management in a changing climate, and liveability for current and future generations. This builds on Council’s previous advocacy work on behalf of the community to deliver city-shaping infrastructure.
“Informed by the needs of our community, Council’s priorities embrace and welcome new opportunities so that we can realise Penrith’s full potential,” Carney said.
“Through a joint effort from all levels of government, we can deliver critical infrastructure. We can achieve tangible outcomes that will futureproof our City and cement our role in western Sydney, that is to be connected to the world through the new airport.”
Over the coming weeks, Council will share further details of these priorities and how these translate to prosperity for Penrith. Visit penrith.city/advocacypriorities to find out more.
Δ Hot cross re-stock: After selling out in record time, the exclusive Cinnabon Hot Cross Buns are returning to Woolworths shelves from this week. Woolworths is restocking these limited-edition treats, giving Australians a second chance to experience this viral Easter bun indulgence. When they first launched in February, the Cinnabon Hot Cross Buns caused a frenzy, combining the warm spices of a traditional Hot Cross Bun with Cinnabon’s signature cinnamon swirl and oozy, indulgent cream cheese-style filling. Donald Keith, Woolworths Hot Cross Bun Expert and Bakery Merchandise Manager said: “We were blown away by the incredible response to our Cinnabon Hot Cross Buns and how quickly they flew off the shelves. It was a necessity that we brought them back in the lead up to Easter.”
Δ Art Bags expand: Woolworths has released a new series of its reusable $2 Art Bags, with the collection also now available in BIG W stores for the first time.The Art Bag collection, launched in 2024, showcases the work of emerging Australian artists while supporting local communities through a donation from each bag purchased. The new series has been designed in collaboration with Australian artist Ryhia Dank.
Δ Dinosaur eggs: This Easter, Kinder Surprise is bringing a touch
of enchantment and adventure with its Dinos & Fairies Collection. Inside each delicious milk chocolate egg, kids and collectors alike will uncover a whimsical fairy or a mighty dinosaur, making every unwrapping a thrilling surprise. Whether it’s a majestic fairy with shimmering wings or a roaring dino from the past, this limited-edition collection is perfect for adding some extra fun to your Easter celebrations. Available at retailers nationwide for $2.50.
Δ New travel shop: The Cruise and Travel Store has officially opened at its brand new location inside Nepean Village shopping centre. The new space was officially opened last Thursday.
Δ Easter at The Orchard: The Orchard is planning a range of kids’ activities across the Easter long weekend, and has confirmed they will be open all four days including Good Friday.
Δ Pizza re-brand: There’s been a change to the pizza shop at Southlands in South Penrith. Dino’s Pizza is out, with Sav’s Pizza now open in the same location.
Δ Colonel’s mystery: Have you noticed the Mystery Box option in the KFC app? Add it to your cart when ordering for no cost, and come back the next day to reveal what was inside the box. There’s even the chance to design your own KFC burger, named after you.
Here’s an awesome High Street flashback showing the Fletchers department store back in Easter 1962.
Fletchers was one of the two big department stores at this time period, the other was Neales.
Fletchers ran from 19141971 (it closed on March 27 1971) and covered 40,000 square feet with 110 staff at one stage.
It was located on the southern side of High Street, close to the Riley Street intersection.
Coles can be seen across the road on the left side of the photograph.
(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)
BOOST YOUR BUSINESS BUSINESS
Running a small business can be a rollercoaster – one minute you’re on top of everything, and the next you’re drowning in to-do lists. But being productive doesn’t mean you have to burn the candle at both ends. With the right strategies, you can stay on top of things, get more done, and still have time for life outside of work.
Here are some practical, real-world tips to help you make the most of your time and energy.
Set clear goals and prioritise what counts It all starts with having clear goals. Whether it’s growing your customer base or getting on top of your admin, knowing what you’re working towards makes it easier to plan your time.
Break big goals into smaller tasks and focus on what’s most important.
Tools like the Eisenhower Matrix – where you sort tasks by urgency and importance – can help you zero in
Stick to a routine and try time blocking
A good routine creates structure and keeps your day flowing. Set aside specific times to check emails, return calls, or tackle the big stuff. That way, you’re not constantly switching gears.
Time blocking is another great trick – set aside chunks of time for different tasks, like creative work in the morning and admin in the arvo. It helps you stay focused and avoid multitasking, which is usually more distracting than helpful.
Embrace technology and automate the boring bits
We live in a digital world, so take advantage of the tools available. Platforms like Trello, Asana, Xero or MYOB can help you stay organised.
And if you find yourself doing the same task over and over – think invoicing or social media posts – see if you can automate it. A little setup now can save you
Learn to let go: Delegate or outsource You can’t do it all, and you shouldn’t have to. Delegating or outsourcing frees you up to focus on what you’re best at.
Bring on a VA, work with freelancers, or hire someone to handle the tasks that eat up your time or fall outside your skill set – like design, marketing, or web stuff. It’s not just about saving time –it’s also about getting better results.
Take regular breaks It might sound counterproductive, but taking breaks actually helps you get more done. Long stretches at your desk can lead to fatigue
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Second Opinion Pest
IN THE DUMPS
AT A LOSS: FOUR STRAIGHT DEFEATS HAS PENRITH PLAYERS AND FANS FEELING NERVOUS 16 PAGES OF PANTHERS COVERAGE INSIDE
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A frustrated Lindsay Smith.
Photo: NRL Photos. MITCH KENNY POSTER INSIDE
the finalword
Penrith travel to Suncorp Stadium on Thursday night with an enormous amount of pressure on their backs as they face a Dolphins side that finally got their first win of the season last weekend, and would feel the defending Premiers are ripe for the picking.
As much as last week’s 22-18 loss to the Cowboys at CommBank Stadium was disappointing, there was at least a feeling that Penrith is getting closer to their second win of the season.
But of concern again was Penrith’s inability to control the momentum of the game. It’s an art they’ve been able to perfect over the past five seasons, otherwise known as the ‘system’ that just keeps rolling along.
Right now though Penrith appears consistently vulnerable – whether it be poor defensive decisions (even from some of the side’s better players), poor reads in attack or errors at crucial periods.
This is simply not the same Penrith side that
has won four straight Premierships. And while we know that’s the case on paper, what has surprised all of us is that the mindset appears different to previous years. Something just isn’t right between the ears, and Ivan Cleary needs to fix it before the season starts to get away.
It is still early in the competition, but the Panthers will be heavily impacted during the Origin period so banking wins now is critical. Going into the sixth round of the competition in third last spot is not what anyone would have predicted, but the side must come out of this weekend in a better position – or things could start to get really concerning.
Penrith welcome back Dylan Edwards for this clash with the Dolphins, and it’ll be a welcome return – his organisational skills at the back are first class and his reliability under the high ball valuable.
The other big change this week sees Blaize Talagi handed the number six number for the first time to partner Nathan Cleary in the halves.
The Panthers have been loathed to make such a move but their hand was forced when Jack Cole was deemed a category one concussion last week – opening the door for what most feel is a much-needed switch.
Not that Cole was going all that terribly, though he’s had some moments he’d rather forget over the opening month of the competition. But Talagi will hopefully provide that spark that is missing at the moment – that boost of energy that the side so desperately needs.
The Dolphins will aim to keep it simple in this one. Run hard, tackle well, kick long. Penrith’s recent form suggests if you stick to a simple game plan long enough, you will beat them.
The danger in that of course is that if the Penrith of old suddenly rises from the ashes, you’re in trouble pretty quickly.
I’d suggest Ivan Cleary knows most of what he needs to fix moving forward.
There is no way that the Panthers are training and preparing the same way they have for the past five years and are dishing out
performances like they have in recent times. Something isn’t right. Something is out of place. Cleary may not necessarily say he has all the answers when speaking with the media, but he most likely does – it’s just how quickly he can implement the required solutions.
The Dolphins got the win they deserved against the Titans last weekend after a tough first month that hasn’t been without its disruptions. They are a decent footy side that will probably finish middle of the road this season. I think after three weeks of giving Penrith the benefit of the doubt, critics are now convinced the side can’t win the Premiership this year; and some have even suggested a Finals berth is unlikely. Sounds like the perfect time to prove some people wrong.
And you know what? When you prove people wrong, it’s best to do it in style. Watch the boys fire this week – you’ve been waiting for it, and it’s going to happen. I’ve just got one of those feelings...
Tip: Panthers by 18.
Graphic: Zoe Merrick.
panther rumblings
TRUTH BEHIND JERSEY BLUNDER
! Real story behind Yeo stuff-up: A simple post-it note blunder was the reason behind the now infamous Isaah Yeo commemorative jersey mishap last Friday. Yeo wore a specially embroided jersey acknowledging his 250th NRL game, but keen-eyed fans noticed the wording included the wrong date – March 4 instead of April 4. I can reveal that the error stems back to a club official, who wrote the wrong date on a post-it note when it was handed to an embroider, who simply followed the instructions provided. The club has taken full responsibility for the mishap, which certainly left a few red faces.
! Captain could jump ship: Talking of Isaah Yeo, I’m hearing more and more that he’s eyeing an overseas move at the end of his current contract. Yeo will be 33 when his deal expires at the end of the 2027 season and by then will likely have become the first man to play 300 games for Penrith. It’ll be an ideal time for his young family to explore the world, and there’s constant strong whispers that it’s his current desire to view opportunities in England when the time comes. It’s a long way off, but if you were planning your 2028 Penrith squad, there’s big doubts Yeo would be in it.
! Talagi not looking for exit: Despite a few rumours doing the rounds, I’m told Blaize Talagi is not looking for any sort of release from his Penrith contract. We spotted Talagi at Panthers training on Tuesday and he looked happy and content.
! Give us a fifth: The Panthers are still leaning into their Hall of Fame, with temporary signage honouring Grahame Moran, Royce Simmons, Greg Alexander and Craig Gower at CommBank Stadium home games. But the fact remains that the concept has been ignored for almost a decade. Surely the time has come for a fifth inductee?
Photo: NRL Images.
! Camo in demand: After playing such a critical role in Penrith’s success both on and off the field in recent years, it’s no surprise that Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron is becoming in hot demand on the public speaking circuit. Last week, he spoke at a business
leaders luncheon presented by the Western Sydney Business Connection at Sydney Zoo. Cameron’s presentations are always impressive – so it’s no surprise the invitations keep coming.
! Spotted: Mitch Kenny joining Nathan Cleary in Newcastle to watch Mary Fowler go around for the Matildas on Monday night.
! Spotted: Forgotten hooker Soni Luke doing a spot of grocery shopping at Westfield Penrith over the weekend.
! Brohman’s big call: Former Panther Darryl Brohman shocked listeners when he made the bold call on 2GB over the weekend that Penrith can’t win the Premiership this year. After the Panthers slumped to a fourth straight
loss on Friday night, Brohman took his big call to the airwaves on the Continuous Call Team on Saturday. He even suggested the Panthers may struggle to make the eight. Most league experts have erred on the side of caution in writing Penrith off, knowing what this champion team has done in the past. Brohman has gone hard early – he’ll either look like a genius or will have to wipe plenty of egg off his face come October.
! MG’s new podcast: Mark Geyer’s media career continues to expand. He’s now launched a new podcast, MG Life in 5ive. Joining the long list of rugby league podcasts, it’s available wherever you listen to podcasts and on YouTube. MG’s first guest on the new concept is Bryan Fletcher.
! NRL’s embarrassing Tago gaffe: The sin-binning of Izack Tago last Friday night against the Cowboys has left the NRL redfaced. The game was stopped so Tago could be sin-binned for high contact for an incident several plays earlier. When the charge sheet came out on Saturday, Tago wasn’t on it – proving it was ridiculous call from The Bunker and the referee. The NRL is desperate to avoid criticism of referees this year. If they didn’t produce howlers like this, the criticism wouldn’t exist.
! Uni partnership: The Panthers have formed a new partnership with Western Sydney University. The partnership will enhance grassroots sport, create new educational pathways, and drive initiatives that benefit the region. It will encompass key programs focused on community engagement, career development, media collaboration, and research into the broader impact of sport. It will also include strategic efforts to enhance facilities and support programs, reinforcing a shared commitment to growth and inclusion. Importantly, the deal will also see Penrith’s female pathway teams engaging with WSU’s Kingswood campus in terms of training and accommodation facilities.
KENNY CONFIDENT TIDE WILL
Penrith’s quest for a fifth straight Premiership may appear to be on life support, but injured hooker Mitch Kenny has warned against writing off the fourtime champions.
Despite four losses in a row, Kenny said it is not panic stations over at Panthers HQ, and the team are trusting in their system and know it will get them results.
“Every season is different and it’s a different story and this is the story so far that we’re going through a bit of teething,” Kenny said.
“At the moment, it feels like we’re not far away but every little mistake we’re making in game is hurting us and we are having to learn some lessons a pretty tough way.
“We just have to get back to training and trust in our processes and be confident that it’ll turn around if we keep training together.”
Kenny will sit out tonight’s clash with the Dolphins after picking up a shoulder injury against the Cowboys last week. He was originally ruled out of the game before returning to the field in a brave effort to try to get the Panthers home.
Despite topping the tackle count
each week, Kenny said the team’s defensive line has lacked some of its past resilience, letting in points they
normally would have defended.
“I feel like in times gone by we’d make a mistake and be that an error
or a penalty we’d defend that but at the moment we’re just having too many defensive lapses,” he said.
“Every time we turn the ball over or give away a penalty it seems to lead to points which is obviously something we’re not proud of and it’s something to work on for us.”
After losing fullback Dylan Edwards to a groin injury and halfback Nathan Cleary to concussion protocols in recent games, Kenny took the opportunity to step up his leadership within the team.
“It’s been a good thing for me [to get] a bit of growth in terms of my own leadership but at the moment it is just not coming back with results.” Kenny said.
“It’s been frustrating being one of the senior guys in the team and still not being able to get a win, but I think ultimately it will pay me back.”
Last Friday, the team celebrated co-captain Isaah Yeo’s 250th game for the club, something Kenny said was a major milestone for the Panther’s beloved lock.
“To play one NRL game is a feat in itself but to play 250 games for one club it’s an enormous feat,” Kenny said.
“He’s the man and we all love him dearly.”
The severity of Kenny’s shoulder injury hasn’t been revealed but it’s hoped he may be fit to play against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium next weekend.
Mitch Kenny believes Penrith need to fix up issues in defence. Photo: Melinda Jane.
PENRITH GAP YEAR? “THAT’S RUBBISH!”
Suggestions the four-peat reigning Premiers are having a ‘gap-year-type season’ have been labelled “rubbish” by one of their most popular and hardest working senior players.
Penrith’s slow start to the season has caught everyone by surprise, and it’s even resulted in pundits and supporters suggesting the side might be taking a year off both mentally and physically from the demanding weekly grind of NRL footy.
The Panthers have been nothing short of mind blowing since 2020, reaching five consecutive Grand Finals and winning four premierships along the way.
But being ‘up’ every single week for five straight seasons can take its toll, which has led to some people questioning whether the Panthers are taking things a little easy this year which has resulted in their sluggish 1-4 start.
Speaking with Extra Time Tuesday afternoon, Sorensen flat out refuted those claims and said a fifth straight title is very much on the club’s agenda.
“That’s rubbish! Very
much so. As blank as you can say it,” he said.
“Things are obviously not ideal at the moment. Everybody enjoys winning… it’s a lot more fun in the winner’s circle, but it’s just the roller coaster of rugby league.”
Sorensen, who missed last Friday’s narrow defeat to the Cowboys at CommBank Stadium, believes his side aren’t icing the oppor tunities when they are presented with them.
The 32-year-old said many lessons are being learned, which can only be a good thing moving forward.
“You can learn lessons when you’re winning and you obviously can learn lessons when you’re losing too,” Sorensen said.
“I feel we are not too far off. We could be in a lot worse of a position. We’re not getting pumped by 50 or anything like that.
“We just have to keep working hard and look to make those crucial plays. Hopefully that will help us put our best foot forward to turning the tide and getting back into the winner’s circle.”
While the Panthers have dropped four-in-arow, their average margin of defeat is only 6.5 points per game.
Sorensen, whose been there for all four of Penrith’s recent premierships, strongly believes a win isn’t too far away and it could come as early as Thursday night against the lowly Dolphins.
“Possibly… well I hope so,” he said.
“All this is a good test for everybody – the senior guys and the younger guys. We’re hoping this little bit of adversity can help us for the rest of the season.
“The big thing for us is we have to stay present. It’s really one game at a time. It’s not about losing seven-in-a-row or winning threein-a-row, it’s about what’s next. It might sound cliché but that’s our focus at the moment.”
Giving the Panthers a monumental boost towards victory tonight in Brisbane is not only the inclusion of Sorensen, who returns after week sidelined with concussion, but also the
return of Kangaroos and New South Wales Blues fullback Dylan Edwards.
The 29-year-old Clive Churchill Medallist is back in Ivan Cleary’s line-up following a nasty groin injury that he suffered in Penrith’s Round 2 loss to the Sydney Roosters.
Sorensen said Edwards wearing the number one jersey again is nothing short of “huge” for the Panthers.
“It just gives you confidence,” he said.
“Obviously, the work rate he shows. His consistency week in, week out. Being the leader in the team as well.
“I don’t know how many more wraps I need to give him.
“He’s just so hardworking, he’s so persistent, resilient. It will be nice to have him back.”
One of Edwards’ strengths is his communication skills, and his ability to get a defence in order – something Penrith’s been lacking with livewire Daine Laurie out the back.
“Dyl’s communication is another level, and that communication not only gives myself confidence but the whole team confidence,” Sorensen admitted.
“He’s also our safety net as well. If someone is breaking through, there’s no one better than Dylan back there. I’m sure he’s excited to be playing again.”
Scott Sorensen is confident Penrith can turn it around eventually. Photo: NRL Images.
Scott Sorensen chatting with journalist Nathan Taylor this week. Photo: Melinda Jane.
NATHAN TAYLOR
footy club
footy club
Missed last week’s results? Here’s a rundown of what happened in key Penrith Panthers games...
Tries: M Taulagi 2, M Vailea, J Purdue Goals: S Drinkwater 3/4
Tries: C McLean, I Tago, L Garner Goals: N Cleary 3/3
Tries: J Chan, A Tuilaepa, J Toby, S Vaivelata, T Brown Goals: H Wilson 2, M Stimson 1
Tries: A Kepaoa, S Lane, D Fale, Z Lamont Goals: Z Lamont 4/4
Tries: G Satrick, L Cesari, B Kehl, M Jenings, N Stonestreet, S Huen Goals: E Norris 3/6
Tries: S Faeamani, J Liddiard, B Moran, P Hotere-Papalii Goals: Z Clarke 1, J Liddiard 1
player of the year
BULLDOGS
WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!
with Peter Lang
If you had told me that after five rounds Penrith would be sitting in 15th position with one win and four consecutive losses, I would have laughed in your face.
Yet here we are, I say ‘we’ because as far as I’m concerned, we’re all in this together.
Supporters, players, coaching staff, the whole club. It’s just that as supporters we can’t actually do anything to help get the team out of this hole.
Except continue to support them that is.
That doesn’t mean we can’t have a constructive opinion on what’s going on, as long as it doesn’t become personal or destructive of course.
What I saw last Friday at CommBank Stadium was a team which appeared lost. They became frantic as time ticked away and scoreboard pressure was applied. At one point towards the end of the game they totally lost their composure and resembled a rabble.
Balls were being thrown behind players, over their heads, backwards, forwards, sideways.
Even the best player in the game looked rattled and bereft of ideas.
It was difficult to watch.
I think what hurt most was being scored on by a 12-man team and even worse, the Cowboys constantly found an overlap time-and-time again – with only 12 men.
So, the defence is poor, the attack has no flow and the forwards are being torn apart.
After the game coach Ivan Cleary was fairly relaxed about the whole thing, while his son looked about as cranky and disappointed as I’ve ever seen him.
That’s probably why the dynamics work.
Last thing we need is for the coach to lose his head.
There are so many things to fix, I don’t even
know where to start but I’ll make some suggestions.
For a start, Ivan needs to pick Blaize Talagi at five-eighth, there is simply no time to nurse him along anymore. The club bought him to play in that position and they have to give the kid the opportunity to do so.
It’s now or never. And it appears to be now, given Talagi was named in the number six jumper on Tuesday.
The coaching staff can’t be afraid to drop players who aren’t playing well, no matter how senior they are or how many first grade games they’ve played. No one’s position should be safe.
Anyway that’s it for me, I’m going to leave the rest of the job up to the professionals.
A lot of fans are saying they’re OK with how the season is going because the club has had a wonderful run over the last five years.
Not me, I’m not happy to give up and rest on what the team has achieved, I want more and I’m guessing the players do too.
To a man, they all want to win and keep winning. I’m sure none of them signed up for a ‘gap year’.
If you thought winning four titles in a row was hard, something tells me getting the season back on track after four-consecutive losses will be no picnic either.
But if anyone can do it, Ivan can. This club can. There’s a wonderful expression that really resonates with me and I applied it to the current Panthers plight.
‘Life begins when you get back up!’
Right now, Penrith are on their knees, but I know they’ll fight hard, rise and get back up again. Now as supporters, let’s be careful not to push them back down.
Nathan Cleary heads over to supporters at CommBank Stadium last week. Photo: NRL Photos.
Penrith Regional Galler y Woolworths Lennox Village
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)
Emu Height s
Super Save Compounding Chemis t
Erskine Park
Ashcroft’s Iga
Erskine Park Ctc
G lenmore Park
Coles
Mags News
McDonald's
Medi Advice Pharmacy
Woolworths
J amisontown
Abcoe
Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym
B att Street Take Away
Grey Gums Hotel
Har vey Norman
New On York Takeaway
Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen
(Penrith Homemaker)
Patt y’s Place
S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)
S hell Ser vice Station
The Coffee Club Nepean River
Three Sugars C afé
We stern Weekender
York Takeaway
Zoo Fitness
7/ 11 Jamisontow n
Jordan Springs
Brooks Tavern
Jordan Springs Newsagency
Woolworths
Kemps Creek
C altex Ser vice Station
Kemps Creek Bowling Club
Kingswood
B arista Bar Coff ee Shop
(Nepean Private Hospital)
Countr y 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 C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)
Llandilo IGA
Londonderr y Londonderr y Liquor Store
S hell X Roads
Luddenham
Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham
Minchinbur y McDonald's
Minchinbur y Fruit Market
Mulgoa
Glenmore Heritage Golf Club
Mulgoa Newsagency
Mulgoa Pharmacy
Nor th St Mar ys
Boronia House (Retirement Community)
Little Bottler
MFC Food Stores
Old Mt Druitt
RM Newsagency
Orchard Hills
Flower Power
Oxley Park
Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy
Penrith
Aldi
Astina
Atmosphere Gym
Au stralian Arms
Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)
Brisket Boys
Ca fé Fre d
C altex Coreen Avenue
Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)
Coles ( We stfield Penrith)
Crescent Mini Mar t
High Street Pies
Hoyt s Westfield
Joan Sutherland Arts Centre
Liquor Stax Pe achtree
McDonald's High Street
McDonald's Panthers Le agues
McDonald's Pe achtree
Mercure Hotel
Museum Of Fire
Nepean Aquatic Centre
Nepean Motor Group C afé
Nepean Rowing Club
Nepean Village Coffee Club
Nepean Village Newsagency
Nextra Westfield
O ffice of Karen McKeown MP
One Point Health
Panthers Le agues Club
Pe achtree Hotel
Penrith Bowling Club
Penrith CBD Corporation
Penrith City Council
Penrith City Librar y Penrith Golf Club
Penrith Hotel
Penrith Paceway
Penrith RSL
Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre
Pioneer Tavern
RE/MAX
Sittano s Restaurant
Ta s tify
Tattersalls Hotel
The Heritage Terrace C afé
The Log C abin
We stfield
World Gym
7/ 11 Henr y Street
Regentville
7/ 11 Regentville
Ropes Crossing
Coles
Ropes Crossing Newsagency
Silverdale
Mobil Ser vice Station
The Chemist Shop
S outh Penrith
Budget Ser vice Station
Fish Fish
Friendly Grocer
Grose’s Pharmacy
Southlands Newsagency
Woolworths
Lemongrove Community Health Centre
South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre
St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel
Foodworks
St Clair Librar y
St Clair Shopping Centre
7/ 11 St Clair
St Mar ys
Andrew s Corner Store
Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy
C assand ra’s On Queen
Cr ystal C afé
Guido s Hair C are Jayam Supermarket
McDonald's
Queen St Newsagency
St Mar ys Band Club
St Mar ys Fish Market
St Mar ys Le agues Club
Mar ys South Monfar ville Corner Store
ENTERTAINMENT
MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND MORE – PENRITH’S LEADING ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
READY TO ROCK PENRITH
Penrith Musical Comedy Company (PMCC) is gearing up to rock audiences with their highly anticipated production of ‘We Will Rock You’ – a musical phenomenon celebrating the legendary music of Queen.
Set in a dystopian future where music has been silenced and individuality is forbidden, the show tells a powerful story of rebellion, freedom, and the unifying power of a good melody.
Re-living cherished memories of seeing ‘We Will Rock You’ in London’s West End is director Josie Dwyer.
“This was one of the very first musicals I took my children to, and they’re now following their dreams in the theatre world,” Dwyer reminisced.
Collaboration is at the heart of Dwyer’s directorial style for the high-energy musical in Penrith.
“Every voice on the production team is val-
uable. They are each masters of their re spective fields,” Dwyer said.
Another member of the team with a deeply personal attachment to the produc tion is musical director Nathan Murphy.
“There is no more iconic rock band in exist ence than Queen,” Murphy declared.
“I grew up with Queen playing on the family stereo and immediately felt a connection with the freedom and energy of their music.”
And he’s doing the band justice by working closely with the cast on sound, vocal place ment and timbre. The production has also taken a unique approach with their orchestra.
“It’s a rock band, and we really want to ap proach it as such – getting things tight, making sure we’re hitting the right dynamics,” Mur phy explained.
Translating powerful anthems into elec trifying movements is choreographer Tara Lawson, who is passionate about inclusiv ity.
“Each cast member – whether it be a su per-flexible featured dancer, our energetic children’s ensemble, or our enthusiastic self-proclaimed ‘strong movers’ – has such an important role to play,” Lawson said.
She hopes the audience will feel the energy, passion, and emotion behind the movement on stage.
“‘We Will Rock You’ is not just about the music, it’s about the fight for freedom, self-expression, and rock
‘n’ roll,” Lawson stated.
“I hope the audience feels that power from every step we’ve cre ated.”
‘We Will Rock You’ will run from May 9 to 17 at Penrith’s Q Theatre.
ALLY HALL
Nathan Murphy, Josie Dwyer and Tara Lawson. Photo: Claryse Prested.
THINGS TO DO
Picnic Day at Springwood Hub
On Wednesday, April 16, pack your picnic basket and head to the grass for a picnic day at Springwood Hub. Picnic days are a new initiative, responding to the needs of the local community, and each one will be a bit different. However, you can always count on a welcoming environment, free activities, games and crafts. Visit www.bluemountainstheatre.com.au.
BARGAIN BUYS
Op Shop at Kingswood Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.
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.
Meets second and fourth Saturdays of the month at Girl Guides Hall in Mount Riverview. Call 0402 281 987.
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Jordan Springs Probus Club
Kevin Bloody Wilson at Panthers
Kevin Bloody Wilson is stopping at Panthers on his ‘Aussie Icon Tour’ performing funny songs, telling hilarious stories and shooting down political correctness. The comedian and songwriter has just returned from a tour of the UK and Ireland, and you can see him on Saturday, April 12. Tickets are $75 and available online from the Panthers website.
Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.
Nepean Riverlands Probus Club
Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am. New members are always welcome.
Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club
Meets on the last Monday of the month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am.
Probus Club of Nepean
First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am. Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866 for more information.
South Creek Probus Club
Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com.
Penrith Lions Club
Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.
Bush School Concert
This Saturday at 7pm, a variety concert will be held at St Finbar’s Church Hall in Glenbrook to support Bush School Cambodia. The Bush School is a not-for-profit project established by a Glenbrook family in 2010. The concert is $35 per person, and you can find more information at https://bushschoolcambodia.com.
2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Trish on 0421 414 012.
Red Cross Penrith
Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.
Nepean Evening VIEW Club
Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Nepean Food Services
Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au.
Free food shop
9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.
MUSEUMS
Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information.
Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.
Penrith Carer Support Group
First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.
Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.
Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.
Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.
At the movies...
‘Death of a Unicorn’ is a unique horror comedy with a topical undertone that speaks to the ever-growing greed of the rich in western society.
The latest flick from A24 centres on a father (Paul Rudd) and daughter (Jenna Ortega), travelling to the luxurious home of his dying employer (Richard E. Grant) in order to meet his family and settle affairs before joining as partner in the company. Things go quickly awry as the pair collide with a Unicorn when driving through a Canadian nature reserve.
What follows is a series of calamities resulting in some gory deaths and two very angry Unicorns.
This film alters our usual perception of Unicorns and plays heavily into the lore and culture of the Middle Ages, when Unicorns were revered – and real – while creating an engaging tale of family dynamics. The film features excellent performances from Téa Leoni and Will Poulter; their use of comedic timing being a highlight of the film. Their gristly deaths and those of others will excite any horror fan and have you rooting for the Unicorns by the end.
The film, while comedic on the surface, holds a mirror to the richest among us – the billion-upon –billionaires. Its portrayal of an extremely wealthy family, perceived
to be in the one per cent, observing the magic and wonder of a Unicorn and responding with the immediate need to destroy and monetise it speaks to the mass greed displayed far too often in our society, and the ever-widening gap between rich and poor.
Depending on who you ask, the themes in this film would range from a funny, engaging movie with some grotesque and awesome onscreen deaths to a more intense representation of the natural won-
ders of this Earth being exploited by the rich. Both interpretations are true, and regardless of your political or socio-economic stance, this film is mythical, fantastical and provocative – much like a Unicorn. – Madeline Dantier
www.hoyts.com.au
WAYNE’S W RLD
with Wayne Tunks
WAYNE TUNKS CAN BE HEARD WEEKDAYS, 7AM-10AM ON MY88 – AN IHEART STATION
We played Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Big Love’ this morning on my brekky show on My88 and it got me thinking what a truly wonderful album, ‘Tango in the Night’ is. I must admit, I hadn’t taken much notice of Fleetwood Mac before then. Strange, I know. Growing up my parents were into country, our family loved to have a beer with Duncan and we wanted to have this dance with Anne Murray. I knew the music that was popular, but at that stage I didn’t know that thunder only happened when its raining.
Obviously now I love their whole catalogue and think ‘Dreams’ is one of the best songs ever, but as a Year Seven student, ‘Big Love’ was new and a revelation.
Then ‘Seven Wonders’ came out. Maybe other 12-year-olds in 1987 were into Bon Jovi or ‘Slice of Heaven’, but I was captivated
by this supposedly famous group I was just getting to know. I clearly dropped a lot of hints for their album that year, because I got it twice for my birthday. I traded the second copy to the old second-hand record store that used to live near the old Blacktown library.
What a great album it turned out to be. The follow up singles were just as good, ‘Little Lies’ and ‘Everywhere’ were just absolute classics. And even though the group went through periods of hating each other, and during this album they had two former couples in their midst, they worked so well together. Plus having three different lead vocalists, Lindsay Buckingham, Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie, on the first three singles, was genius.
From my love of ‘Seven Wonders’, I went on to a passion for Stevie Nicks, adoring her earlier work and loving what was to come. 1989’s ‘Rooms on Fire’ is such a hauntingly beautiful tune.
Writing this column this week has made me realise that I need to listen to ‘Tango in the Night’ again – what a cracking album, a true 80s classic. So, what was your favourite single from that album?
COUNTRY CORNER
Brother Hollow drops new track
Tamworth-based band Brother Hollow embraces the highs and lows of life on the road, weaving their experiences into a rich tapestry of music that speaks to the heart’s desire to return home, in their new track ‘Homeward Bound’.
With a history of chart success and streaming highlights, Brother Hollow is no stranger to triumph.
‘Homeward Bound’ is an exhilarating country rock anthem that transports listeners from the 90s to a modern era. It showcases the powerhouse vocals of Daniel Thornton and the vibrant guitar energy of James Craswell and Daniel Mountain, which gets your spirit moving.
It’s an infectious song with lyrics that resonate deeply, igniting the longing to venture out and ultimately head ‘Homeward Bound’. The song is out now on all streaming services.
Bell’s back
Kaylee Bell is back with a brand-new anthem, and this time, she’s putting a playful spin on the age-old question: When’s the ring coming?
Teaming up in New York with writers Zach Zadek (Tate McRae, Dasha, FLETCHER and Lauv) and Michel Heyeka, ‘Ring On It’ is a fun, feel-good, and undeniably catchy track that blends Bell’s signature energy with a fresh, modern take on classic country-pop. Tom Jordan formerly of Australian country duo Seaforth, produced the track, injecting an irresistible energy that makes it an instant banger.
Packed with infectious melodies, driving banjo, and a tongue-incheek attitude that would make Shania Twain proud, ‘Ring On It’ is a confident, cheeky reminder that you’ll never find something better than this. Whether you’re waiting for a proposal or just love a good country banger, this one’s for you. It’s out now on all streaming services.
TAKE YOUR ACTING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
ALLY HALL
For locals wanting to take their acting to the next level, The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre is the place to be on May 11 for Q Theatre’s exclusive Adult Acting Masterclass.
With over 15 years of experience on stage and screen, award-winning actor, writer and producer Danny Ball will run the workshop and share the invaluable tools, techniques and insights that have set him apart in the competitive world of acting.
“Acting and theatre is my great passion, it’s what really excites and motivates me in my life, and I actually come from a family of teachers,” Ball said.
their point of view, talents and abilities.”
To achieve the best results, participants need to get comfortable being uncomfortable.
“I’ve always been around educators, and I’ve always believed in the importance of education, and for a very long time I’ve merged my love for acting with my love for education and teaching and that’s why I’m here doing this.”
The Italian-Australian icon has earned widespread acclaim for his powerhouse performances, raw talent, and versatility –skills he will pass on.
“One of my goals when I’m teaching is to empower the individual,” Ball explained.
“Rather than coming in with pre-set ideas about what people’s performances should look like, I hope that I’m influenced by the individuals that make up a class and how I can tap into their natural potential with
“The only thing that I think someone who’s just beginning needs is the willingness to throw themselves into the deep end – the willingness to get their hands dirty and to make mistakes – which is hard as an adult because our lives centre around minimising making mistakes for many reasons,” Ball stated.
“When it comes to acting it’s really important to allow yourself to fail and to make mistakes because that’s how we get to the wonderful, juicy, interesting part of acting.”
The workshop will start with the basics.
“We’ll build chemistry and connection with the ensemble, and then we’ll move through text and scenes and start to apply different techniques and processes into building a character and into breaking down a scene structurally and dramaturgically,” Ball stated.
The Acting Masterclass will run on May 11 at The Joan. Book at https://www.qtheatre.com.au/events/acting-for-adults-masterclass-with-danny-ball.
Ê New feelgood series ‘The Piano’, hosted by Gold FM’s Amanda Keller, will premiere on Sunday, May 4 at 7.30pm. The six-part ABC series, based on a UK format, explores how the piano has the power to transform the lives of everyday Australians. Invited to perform at unique locations around the country, this series offers Australians the chance to showcase their piano playing talents. These pianists will turn public spaces into hubs of musical brilliance, captivating shoppers, commuters, and passersby as they pause in awe of the performances. But all is not what it seems. What the pianists don’t know, is that they are being observed by two renowned expert musicians, multi-awardwinning musical powerhouse Harry Connick Jr., and one of Australia’s greatest classical concert pianists, Andrea Lam.
Ê Two of the ABC’s most popular shows are returning soon. Ahead of the Federal Election, ‘Gruen Nation’ will return to the national broadcaster on Wednesday, April 30 at 8pm, while ‘Gruen’ is back at 8pm on Wednesday, May 14 with 10 new episodes. Wil Anderson will be joined by advertising
and marketing experts including Russel Howcroft, Todd Sampson, Christina Aventi, Karen Ferry, Dee Madigan, Camey O’Keefe and Lauren Zonfrillo.
Ê Exciting news for fans of ‘Dexter’, with Paramount+ spinoff series ‘Dexter: Original Sin’ renewed for a second season. Set in 1991, the show serves as the origin story of Dexter Morgan, with Patrick Gibson playing the young version of the fictional serial killer. Michael C. Hall provides the young Dexter’s inner voice.
Ê One to put in your diary… Apple TV+ has announced the launch date for epic new drama series ‘Chief of War’, produced and written by Hollywood superstar Jason Mamoa. Set amidst the backdrop of the islands of Hawai’i, the nine-episode series based on true events, follows warrior Ka’iana, portrayed by Momoa, as he tries to unify the islands before Western colonisation
in the late 18th century. The first two episodes will drop on Friday, August 1.
Ê In some exciting news for English rugby league fans, Kayo Sports is now broadcasting every single Super League game for the remainder of the season and beyond. This new deal is available to Kayo subscribers only, however Fox Sports will show a couple of games per week as usual.
Ê Lastly, I was lucky enough to attend the premiere of season two of ‘The Last of Us’ last week at Sydney’s State Theatre. I must say, fans are in for a real treat this season if the first episode is anything to go by. All your favourites are back, including Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, while there’s a few new and familiar faces on board that will get everyone excited. The new season of ‘The Last of Us’, which his set five years after the events of season one, will premiere exclusively on Max this Monday, April 14.
TV Guide: April 11 – 17
Your guide to the week’s television viewing
6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America 10:30 The Pacific 11:00 ANZAC Battlefields 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Unforgotten (M l,s) 2:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 3:00 Back Roads (PG) 3:30 Grand Designs NZ (M l) 4:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:55 Federal Election Announcement 7:00 ABC News 7:35 Gardening Australia 8:35 Sherwood (M l,s,v) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Movie: “Nikki & Nora: Sister Sleuths” (PG) (’22) Stars: Hunter King 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 7:30 AFL: Round 5: Collingwood v Sydney *Live* 10:30 AFL: Post-Game 11:15 GetOn Extra 11:45 9-1-1Lone Star (M) 12:45 The Black Donnellys (M v) 2:00 Home Shopping 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “The Love Gala” (PG) (’23) Stars: Lesa Wilson 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 West Coast Cops (M v) 8:30 Movie: “Monster In Law” (M) (’05) Stars: Jennifer Lopez 10:30 Movie: “Moonstruck” (PG) (’87) Stars: Cher 12:30 Tipping Point (PG) 12:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News First:
12:00 Dance Boss 1:15 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 3:05 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 4:00 Black-ish (PG) 4:30 Frogger (PG) 5:30 The Amazing Race (PG) 7:00 Movie: “Matilda” (PG) (’96) Stars: Mara Wilson
4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Great Parks Of Africa (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Witches” (PG) (’20) 9:40 Movie: “Get Hard” (MA15+) (’15)
8:00 What’s Up Down Under 8:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 9:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Star Trek: Voyager (PG) 3:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 4:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Fire Country (M v)
2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 Rules Of Engagement (PG) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” (M l,v) (’14) Stars: Kenneth Branagh
Mandarin) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 2:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island” (PG) (’12) 1:30
6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Death In Paradise (PG) 1:25 Darby And Joan (PG) 2:10 Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 3:00 Dinosaurs Of The Frozen Continent 3:50 A Life In Ten Pictures (PG) 4:40 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli (PG) 5:10 Landline 5:40 Australian Story 6:10 Father Brown (PG) 6:55 Federal Election Announcement 7:00 ABC News 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Bendigo/ Ascot *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Day After Tomorrow” (PG) (’04) Stars: Jake Gyllenhaal 9:55 Movie: “The Book Of Eli” (MA15+) (’10) Stars: Denzel Washington 12:20 Repco Supercars Highlights 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra - Saturday 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 Young Sheldon (PG) 1:00 Let’s Eat With George 1:30 Movie: “Oddball” (G) (’15) Stars: Shane Jacobson 3:30 The Hundred With Andy Lee (PG) 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Mrs Doubtfire” (PG) (’93) Stars: Robin Williams 12:00 Everyday Gourmet 12:30 Australia By Design - Architecture 1:00 10 Minute Kitchen 1:30 Frugal Foodie 2:00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass 2:30 Taste Of AustraliaBBQ Special 3:00 What’s
3:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 4:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Bendigo/ Ascot *Live* 6:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country
1:30 Cool Cars & Bikes (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 NDRC Top Doorslammer 4:00 Full Custom Garage (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Aussie Salvage Squad (PG)
12:00 Dream Academy 12:30 Dream Home (PG) 2:00 Holey Moley Australia (PG) 3:30 My France With Manu 4:25 Dodger (PG) 5:25 Movie: “Turbo” (G) (’13) Stars: Ryan Reynolds 7:30 Movie: “Look Who’s Talking” (M l) (’89) Stars: John Travolta 5:30 The Barber (PG) 6:00 The Last LandGespe’gewa’gi (PG) 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Cujo” (M I) (’83) Stars: Dee Wallace 10:15 Movie: “Amazing Grace” (G) (’18) Stars: Aretha Franklin
Antiques Roadshow 7:30 West Coast Cops (PG)
Australia (PG) 9:30 Ambulance
12:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Escape Fishing With ET (PG) 2:00 Football: Ninja A-League Women: Round 22: Sydney FC v Perth Glory *Live* 4:30 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Round 26: Sydney FC v Auckland FC *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight
11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:30 Deal Or No Deal 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasiers (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Frasier (PG)
Rick Stein’s Road To Mexico 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 10:30 David Rocco’s Dolce Napoli 4:05 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:30 PBS News Hour 5:30 Over The Black Dot 6:00 Our Law (PG) 6:35 Engineering Tomorrow 7:30 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:25 Special Forces: Most Daring Missions 1:45 Lost Gold Of World War II (PG) 2:45 Hunting Hitler (PG) 3:45 Jeopardy! (UK) (PG) 4:45 Young Sheldon (PG) 5:40 Movie: “The Addams Family 2” (PG) (’21) Stars: Oscar Isaac 7:30 Movie: “The Hunger Games” (M v) (’12)
12:00 Tennis: Billie Jean King Cup: Australia v Colombia *Live* 6:00 Dad’s Army 7:00 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: Reds v Brumbies *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post-Match 9:45 Movie: “Broken Arrow” (M) (’96) Stars: Bob Gunton
6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:30 Offsiders 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Monty Don’s Japanese Gardens 4:30 Restoration Australia (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Federal Election Announcement 6:30 Compass (PG) 6:55 Federal Election Announcement 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Darby And Joan (M) 8:15 Unforgotten (M l,s) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Sunday Footy Feast 2:30 Border Patrol (PG) 3:00 Highway Cops (PG) 3:30 Dog Patrol (PG) 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The 1% Club UK (PG) 8:00 Highway Patrol (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Equalizer 3” (MA15+) (’23) Stars: Denzel Washington 11:00 Movie: “Firestarter” (MA15+) (’22) Stars: Zac Efron 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Sunday Footy Show (PG) 12:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 1:00 Fish Forever 1:30 Drive TV 2:00 Oz Off Road TV (PG) 3:00 David Attenborough’s The Mating Game (PG) 4:00 Space Invaders (PG) 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Postcards (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 60 Minutes (PG) 8:00 RBT (M l) 8:30 The People V Michael Jackson (MA15+) 10:30 Footy Furnace (M) 10:00 10 Minute Kitchen 10:30 Pooches At Play 11:00 My Market Kitchen 11:30 Buy To Build 12:00 Australian Survivor (PG) 1:10 Everyday Gourmet 1:30 Cook With Luke 2:00 The Dog Down Under 2:30 Pat Callinan’s
Home And Away (PG) 4:00 Australian Idol (PG) 5:40 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 6:30 Puppy School (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M s,v)
4:30 Movie: “Amazing Grace” (G) (’18) Stars: Aretha Franklin 6:05 Queer & Here (PG) 6:45 Waterworld Africa (PG) 7:35 The Frontier (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Alick And Albert” (PG) (’21) 10:00 Movie: “The Piano” (MA15+) (’93) 11:30 Roads Less Travelled 12:00 Navigating The World 2:00 I Fish 2:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 What’s Up Down Under 4:30 Top Gear Australia (PG) 5:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Seal Team (MA15+)
View: Video Killed The Radio Star (PG) 5:15 Domino Masters (PG) 6:10 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 7:05 Cycling: Paris-Roubaix Men’s Race *Live* 1:50 Letterkenny (M l,s)
6:00 Deal Or No Deal 8:00 Frasier (PG) 10:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 11:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG)
2:00 Lost Gold Of World War II (PG) 3:00 Hunting Hitler (PG) 4:00 Jeopardy! (UK) (PG) 5:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Elf” (G) (’03) Stars: Will Ferrell 7:30 Movie: “Dune” (M) (’21) Stars: Timothée Chalamet 12:30 Edgar Wallace Mysteries (PG) 1:45 Movie: “Tonight’s The Night” (PG) (’54) Stars: David Niven 3:45 Movie: “The Train” (PG) (’64) Stars: Burt Lancaster 6:30 M*A*S*H: (PG) 8:30 Movie: “US Marshals” (M) (’98) Stars: Tommy Lee Jones
Get Macca’s® delivered.
6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 7:00 Supertato 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 8:05 Operation Ouch! (PG)
6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond
3:00 Back Roads (PG) 3:30 Grand Designs NZ (M l) 4:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Federal Election Announcement 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:55
6:25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 7:00 Supertato 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 8:05 Operation Ouch! (PG) 8:40 Abbott Elementary (PG) 3:00 You Say: Election Forum 4:00 Afternoon Briefing
The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG)
(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 Hundred With Andy Lee (PG) 8:30 The Grand Tour (M l)
Voyager (PG) 3:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 4:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:30 The Weekly Kick-Off
Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG)
Movie: “Bonnie Prince Charlie” (G) (’48) Stars: David Niven 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (PG)
4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 3:15 Movie: “They Who Dare” (G) (’54) Stars: Dirk Bogarde 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Yes Prime Minister 2:00 Restoration Australia 3:00 Back Roads (PG) 3:25 Grand Designs NZ (M l) 4:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00
Outback Steakhouse Penrith brings the bold flavours of the Australian Outback straight to your table – think perfectly grilled steaks, crave-worthy appetisers, ice-cold drinks, and good vibes all around. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and generous portions, Outback is the
go-to spot whether you’re catching up with mates, heading out for a family dinner, or just craving a great steak. Signature cuts like the Outback Special and the juicy Ribeye are grilled to order and packed with flavour, while the Bloomin’ Onion and Classic Wings keep the good times rolling.
Behind the bar, the Outback team is shaking up cocktails with flair and pouring a great mix of local and imported brews. From crisp lagers to bold reds and summery cocktails, there’s something for every taste. Outback Penrith keeps it fun, friendly, and full of flavour – just the way it should be!
Join us at O utback S teakhouse Penrith
Enjoy our hand cut steaks, ribs, burgers, seafood, and salads ina warm, family-friendly setting.
Try our expertly crafted newcocktail menu and special Christmas menu, plus don’t forget our gift cards for the perfect holiday present!
Sun- Thurs 12noon- 9pm, Fri and Sat 12noon-10pm
Licensed Seats 385
Takeaway Available
Bookings not required but recommended for groups
Outback Steakhouse serves up delicious food every
Authentic German delights await at Hub Dining at Workers Hubertus
Nestled in the serene landscape of Luddenham, Workers Hubertus’ Hub Dining offers a culinary retreat that seamlessly blends authentic German cuisine with picturesque views.
This dining destination pays homage to the area’s rich German heritage. The menu boasts an array of German classics, with highlights such as the hearty pork knuckle and the crispy, golden pork schnitzel.
Each dish is crafted with a commitment to authenticity, ensuring that patrons experience the genuine flavours and traditions of German cooking.
Complementing the delectable fare are the restaurant’s stunning landscape vistas, providing a tranquil backdrop that enhances the overall dining experience.
Hub Dining operates from Wednesday to Sunday, offering lunch from 11.30am to 2.30pm. Dinner service extends from 5.00pm to 8.00pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, until 8.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and a continuous service from 11.30am to 8.00pm on Sundays (subject to change due to trade).
Beyond its culinary offerings, Workers Hubertus serves as a hub for community engagement, hosting a variety of events that celebrate both local culture and international traditions.
The venue’s commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for family gatherings, friendly meetups, or simply a peaceful meal away from
the city’s hustle and bustle.
In essence, Hub Dining at Workers Hubertus is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination where food, culture, and community converge.
This Luddenham gem promises an experience that delights the palate and soothes the soul.
Located at 205 Adams Road, Luddenham.
Ooshman is all about good food done right.
Originally known as Manoosh, the family-owned brand has been serving up fresh, Lebanese-inspired pizzas and wraps since 2008, and now under the new name Ooshman, it’s got a fresh look to match its big flavour.
From hand-stretched dough made daily to housemade garlic toum, Ooshman is serious about quality with-
out taking itself too seriously.
The menu is packed with flavour, from classics like Zaatar and Margherita to loaded chicken wraps, bowls, and boxes that hit the spot every time. Vegan and vegetarian options? Yep, they’ve got those too!
You’ll find Ooshman all over Sydney, with the Penrith store a local favourite.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, ordering dinner for the fam, or picking up a late-night feed, Ooshman
Penrith delivers the goods –fast, fresh and full of flavour. It’s the same food people have loved for years, just with a bold new name. Ooshman is here to feed cravings, fuel good times, and keep things tasty.
Ooshman’s Penrith store is located at 5/2215-2227 Castlereagh Road, Penrith. Open 10am to 10.30pm Sundays-Thursdays, and from 10am to 11pm Fridays and Saturdays. Order online or in store.
All action at Saints Sports Bar.
Continuing to deliver the best sports bar experience in the district, Saints Sports at St Marys Leagues, has added three unbeatable offers for members this month.
It’s game on, with their newest App offers for members, the Beer ‘n Burger combo – bring a friend Mondays and Tuesdays and save more dough. You’ll also be off and racing with 35 per cent off all tap beverages on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Enjoy every big game, race, fight, or match on the massive 4.8m x 2.7m screen, the huge 3m x 1.69m screen or any of the 45 4K LED screens and, if you’re after that immense stadium-like atmosphere, their revolutionary speaker system will make you feel like you’re in the heart of the action.
You’ll be in a league of your own with wallto-wall sport as well as an extensive range of beverages including 18 beers on tap, signature cocktails and wine on tap.
The menu also features pizzas, pastas, wings, burgers and all your favourite sports bar food… this is a sports viewing experience fit for a king!
No matter what sort of sporting enthusiast you are Saints Sports will soon become your home ground. Surrounded by your mates and other avid sports fans, there’s no better way to cheer on your team.
Visit Saints at the corner of Forrester and Boronia Roads, North St Marys.
Becoming a member is easy, sign up at Reception and you can benefit from awesome offers straight away.
Want to know more? stmarysleagues.com.au.
Pizza at Saints Sports Bar.
Some delights that feature on the Ooshman menu.
Since 2019, House of GRK has been a local favourite in Penrith, serving up mouthwatering, traditional flavours that bring people together.
With over 40 years of experience in the takeaway food industry, this family-owned business carries a proud legacy that began in the country towns of NSW.
At House of GRK, founder George believes the best food is made with passion and care. That’s why everything on the menu is prepared in-house, using time-honoured recipes and the freshest ingredients.
This local gem is well known for its Yeeros and succulent house-marinated meats cooked in the Greek kontosouvli style.
Every bite is bursting with rich, smoky goodness, tender chicken, pork, and lamb, all slow-cooked to perfection over an openflame rotisserie, delivering an unforgettable taste experience.
Experience authentic souvla, cooked the way it should be – with love, tradition, and unbeatable flavour.
House
AUTHENTIC GREEK STREE T FOOD
of GRK is open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Located at Shop 2, 98 Henry Street, Penrith.
food at House of GRK.
Ten Tops, one of NSW’s favourite discount stores, will celebrate its highly anticipated Grand Opening on Saturday, April 12 at the Seven Hills Plaza.
Having already opened in 11 locations (including Penrith) and become a firm favourite in New South Wales, Ten Tops is bringing a fresh new concept to the marketplace. With a commitment to offering unbeatable value, Ten Tops ensures that nothing in the store is priced over $10.
CEO of the family-owned Bernardi Group, Joseph Bernardi, said his team love nothing more than striking great deals so they can pass on cost savings to their customers.
“We understand how important good value
is to our customers and there is certainly some competition amongst our team on who can find the best deals – especially when it comes to everyday products,” he said.
“At Ten Tops you’ll save big on everyday items across a range of categories including grocery, pet care, health and beauty, stationery, toys and games, tech accessories, art and crafts and more, there really is something for everyone!”
The buzz surrounding Ten Tops has been building, with thousands of locals already signing up to follow the official Facebook pages for sneak peeks at the incredible bargains the Seven Hills store will offer.
The store will open on Saturday and is at 224 Prospect Highway, Seven Hills.
There’s plenty of treats and bargains to be found at Ten Tops.
FUN, FRIENDS AND FREEDOM FOR OVER 60’S
Halcyon Gables was conceptualised to provide an aspirational lifestyle enriched with fun, friendship and freedom for each and every homeowner. Key to this exciting, first of its kind development from Stockland in NSW, are the facilities and shared spaces that connect and nurture the community.
Positioned in the Hills District, just a short walk to the future Stockland Gables Town Centre and lake, Halcyon Gables provides great access to Greater Sydney and day-to-day amenities. But with so much on offer on-site, homeowners may choose to stay within the gated community more often than not.
The meandering streets and connected walkways create a neighbourhood feel that builds
towards a resort style Lodge and multiple lifestyle precincts.
When speaking about the conceptualisation of Halcyon Gables’ facilities, Architect Adam Beck of BDA Architecture, said that he and his team “approached the design to have a heart and a hub” that would anchor the community for years to come.
Taking inspiration from the beautiful landscape of the Hills District, Beck describes the exterior aesthetic as having a “beautiful expression in the architecture and the built form of the location in which it is set”.
From the striking gabled roof, to the sandstone facades and established native trees that have been left in place, to the orientation of the buildings to provide breathtaking views, each design decision is intentional and combines
to create a distinct sense of place.
When asked about the facilities at Halcyon Gables, Project Director Ken Franklin explained that “whether you’re coming from one side of the community or the other, you will have a shortcut there, whichever facility that you want to use and enjoy”.
As such, the four lifestyle precincts (Entertainment, Health & Wellness, Creative and Sporting) are separate, yet seamlessly connected to encourage regular use and create opportunities for organic interactions and connections.
Inside, interiors have been carefully designed both for aesthetic and function. When interviewed about the project, Halcyon Gables
Interior Designer Charlotte Correard of Pike Withers, shared
that while each precinct was a “communal facility, they were also an extension of each owner’s home”.
Expanding on their shared vision for Halcyon Gables, Pike Withers Director Amanda Pike said that they were intent on “incorporating the surroundings” while achieving a “boutique hotel feel” in order to create community spaces that homeowners “would be proud to bring family and friends”.
“EACH COMMUNITY PRECINCT PERFECTLY COMBINES QUALITY, FUNCTION AND COMFORT”
As a result, each community precinct perfectly combines quality, function and comfort. Spaces ebb, flow and evolve as homeowners and guests move through them, with grand rooms and clusters of cosy corners providing options to encourage usage – all elevated by aspirational yet welcoming colours, finishes and furnishings.
At the heart of The Lodge is a striking sandstone fireplace that symbolises the heart of the community and provides the perfect place for homeowners and guests to meet, gather and connect.
From inside to out, Halcyon Gables is a community that perfectly blends aspirational aesthetics with day-to-day function to inspire the evolution of a thriving over 60’s community. To find out more about Halcyon Gables call 1800 050 050 or visit www.stockland.com.au/halcyon-gables.
ENJOY A RURAL LIFESTYLE IN BEAUTIFUL KURRAJONG!
What is so great about this property? The property is completely move in ready and would make a fantastic rural family home and in a desired location.
Who does this property suit?
Established family who enjoy entertaining, car enthusiasts, people with a truck or mechanic business. Also suitable for livestock with secure fenced, irrigated paddocks. Several undercover car spots as well as
space to park machinery or larger vehicles.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Kurrajong is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The Kurrajong Village / Shops has a peaceful atmosphere and attractive natural surrounds. The area offers great schools, medical services and an abundance of boutique cafes and antique stores as well as modern cafes and diners/restaurants.
Property Michael Bennett • 0414 643 667
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Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
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Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me.
*Artist impression
Western Property
RARE OPPORTUNITY ON DOORSTEP OF AIRPORT
Alarge-scale site near Western Sydney Airport has hit the market for the first time in nearly half a century, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a substantial parcel of land with future development potential.
Matthew Neale, the Director of Sales and Leasing at Macquarie Commercial, said access and location are definitely the major drawcards.
The 3.23-hectare property is
located on the corner of Bradley Street and The Northern Road in Glenmore Park, one of Greater Sydney’s fastest-growing suburbs, making it ideal for land bankers.
It is in the Northern Gateway precinct of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, with easy access to the future metro rail stations in Luddenham and Orchard Hills.
“It’s rare to find large tracts of land fronting The Northern Road with the access that it has,” Neale said.
“It’s right in, right out at traffic lights on an arterial road, not far from the M4.”
Neale said the three-bedroom home with double-garage on site creates an opportunity to start building a short-term rental portfolio or start a home-based business. Other permitted uses under the current C4 Environmental Living zoning include bed and breakfast, home-based childcare, dwelling houses, and home industries.
For those looking to subdivide,
he said the site has approval for a one-acre subdivision.
For further information, contact Matthew Neale via email at Matthew@maccom.com.au or call 0420 808 349.
1-13 Bradley Street, Glenmore Park
• Site area 3.23 ha approx.
• Previous rezoning and residential subdivision undertaken on the site.
• Three-bedroom home with double garage on-site providing rental/ Airbnb income potential.
• C4 Environmental Living Zoning, making it suitable for a bed and breakfast, home-based childcare, dwelling houses, and home-based businesses/industries.
FOCUSING ON STRENGTH
As we get older, keeping our muscles and bones strong is important for staying active and preventing falls. A combination of proper nutrition, exercise, and a balanced lifestyle can help maintain muscle mass, support bone health, and reduce the risk of falls.
Protein and calcium are two key nutrients that play a big role in keeping our muscles and bones healthy, which can help us stay strong, healthy, and independent for longer.
Protein and muscle maintenance
Protein, which is typically found in meat, dairy products, eggs, nuts, seeds and legumes, is essential for building and repairing muscles. Our muscles are made from protein, so it makes sense that protein is needed to build and repair muscle. When you exercise, especially through strength training like lifting weights, small tears form in your
muscles. Protein helps repair these tears, making your muscles stronger over time
Not only does protein help with building muscle, but also with maintaining the muscle we already have.
As we get older, it becomes harder to maintain our muscle due to the natural process of muscle loss that occurs as we age. That’s where protein comes in. Regularly eating the amount of protein that our body requires helps slow down natural muscle loss.
The Experts
THE IMPLANT ADVANTAGE HEALTH
SARAH BONNICI
One Point Health 4732 5188
Replacing a missing tooth is more than a cosmetic decision –it’s vital for your oral health, function, and confidence.
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for modern tooth replacement, but like any treatment, they come with pros and cons.
oral surgery, which may not suit everyone, particularly those with certain health conditions or insufficient bone volume.
The procedure also takes longer than alternatives, often involving several months of healing.
Cost is another factor –
The Experts
DR. ANDREW PETERSON
Sydney Smile Doctor
sydneysmiledoctor.com.au
make sure our bones stay strong. As we age, our bones can become weaker, making us more likely to break a bone if we fall, meaning we need more calcium as we age. Great sources of calcium include dairy products such as milk, yoghurt or cheese, but calcium can also be found in leafy greens such as spinach and kale and in the bones of fish.
Calcium and bone health
Calcium is a mineral that helps keep bones strong and healthy by maintaining bone density, which lowers the risk of fractures. It also works with vitamin D to
Looking for a snack? Try snacking on high protein yoghurt, or cheese and crackers next time for extra protein and calcium. Personalised guidance on how to improve your protein and calcium intake can be provided in a consultation with an Accredited Practising Dietitian.
The pros
Dental implants closely mimic the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. A titanium post acts as an artificial root, supporting a custommade crown for a seamless result.
One of the biggest benefits is that implants help preserve jawbone density by stimulating the bone, preventing the sunken facial appearance that often follows tooth loss. They are also extremely durable – when cared for properly, implants can last decades.
The cons
However, implants require
implants are generally more expensive upfront compared to bridges or dentures.
Ultimately, dental implants offer a strong, natural-looking, and permanent solution for missing teeth.
A personalised consultation will determine if you’re a good candidate, helping you restore your smile with confidence and care.
Take the first step towards a stronger, more confident smile – book your implant consultation with me today.
Dr. Andrew Peterson is a Penrith-based dentist and master of aesthetic restorative dentistry at Sydney Smile Doctor.
Peterson is an internationally renowned dentist. With a Masters in Aesthetic Dentistry from Kings College London, he provides world class services here in Penrith.
The Experts
ALTERNATIVES TO OWNING A DOG OR CAT
Are the kids begging for a dog – but you have no space to house one?
Or perhaps your cat-caring instincts are kicking in – but all you can think about is the cost?
Yes, dogs and cats are the most common Australian pets. But no, they aren’t your only options. Many other animals need loving pet parents, and some may be a better fit for your lifestyle. If you’re wondering, ‘What pet should I get?’, here are some fantastic alternatives to cats and dogs.
Small mammals: The cuddly companions
Guinea pigs – Sociable and friendly, guinea pigs are great for those who enjoy cuddling and interacting with their pets. They’re gentle, easy to handle, and thrive with companionship.
Rabbits – With intelligence and charm, rabbits can be trained to use a litter box and even walk on a leash. They love social interaction and require a secure enclosure with room to roam.
Ferrets – These playful and intelligent creatures are full of energy and love to explore. However, they require a lot of attention, enrichment, and proper training.
Scaly and feathered friends
Fish – Affordable and low-maintenance, fish can bring a calming presence to any home. While they may not be as interactive as a cat or dog, watching them swim is soothing and stress-relieving.
Birds – Budgies, cockatiels, and parrots can mimic sounds
and provide companionship. However, they require spacious cages, mental stimulation, and daily interaction.
Reptiles – Geckos, turtles, and snakes are fascinating pets for those who prefer observation over cuddles. Make sure you check the licencing requirements before purchasing.
Unique
and unconventional pets
Hermit Crabs – Social and inquisitive, hermit crabs are fun to watch as they scuttle around their habitat. They thrive in groups but require high humidity and a well-maintained enclosure.
Axolotls – These adorable aquatic creatures are low-maintenance but require specific water conditions. Their quirky appearance and gentle nature make them a unique choice.
Stick Insects – Masters of camouflage, stick insects are low-maintenance and fascinating to observe. They need fresh
enclosure to thrive.
The ultimate low-maintenance pet – If loyalty and low maintenance are top priorities, a pet rock will never take you for granite. They’re stable, reliable, and require zero effort!
Alternative ways to enjoy animals
If you’re not ready for a full-time pet commitment, consider fostering a pet in need while they wait for adoption or volunteering at a shelter. They always need help walking dogs, playing with cats, or assisting with care.
Owning a pet is a long-term commitment, so it’s important to consider your lifestyle, space, and budget before bringing one home.
Whether it’s a small mammal, a scaly friend, or even a pet rock, there’s a perfect pet out there for everyone!
Come and chat with the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital or give us a call on 4736
When it comes to home and family –expect the unexpected! With the Sun joining Uranus in your domestic zone, there’ll be changes involving loved ones and/or living arrangements over the next few weeks. You could also feel the need to re-design, decorate, renovate or extend your living space (or even move house). Plus – with so much planetary action happening in your neighbourhood zone – there could also be a shake-up in your local community.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
With Saturn, Mercury and Venus (your patron planet) stimulating your peer group zone, it’s important to support and encourage your friends and colleagues. But make sure you communicate clearly and sort out any misunderstandings early on. Fast thinking and creative strategies will help you solve short-term problems and alleviate long-term stress. The Sun transits into Taurus on the weekend (until May 20) so it’s time for ebullient Bulls to sparkle and shine!
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
On Good Friday dynamic Mars charges into your sign, so it’s time for listless, languid Lions to be bold, brave and adventurous. Which will give you the confidence and courage to be the authentic you, showcase your strengths, and pursue your wildest dreams. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, actress and activist Emma Watson (who turns 35 on Tuesday), “I don’t want other people to decide who I am. I want to decide that for myself.”
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Proactive Mars charges into your career and life direction zone on Good Friday. So a combination of self-belief, sudden opportunities and taking action could set you on an exciting new professional path. Volunteer work and networking are also favoured. Inspiration for the week comes from birthday great, fashion designer Victoria Beckham, “I think the sexiest thing about a woman is confidence, but confidence in a humble way, not in an arrogant way.”
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Saturn is sauntering through your sign, which could stymie progress, squash confidence and bring you down. This week Venus visits Pisces, plus the Sun, Mercury and Neptune (your ruler) stimulate your self-esteem zone. So steer clear of criticism (in person and online), avoid getting caught up in a negative self-talk loop, and stop worrying about the qualities you perceive you don’t have. It’s time to celebrate your strengths and be your number one fan!
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
This week, you’re ready to head off in dynamic new directions! Your power planet Mercury joins the Sun and Neptune in your hopes and wishes zone. So frustration will gradually lift, to be replaced by a growing desire to get things done. You’ll find it’s a wonderful week to dream big dreams, prepare well, and then initiate a bold new project. But don’t get carried away, talk too much, promise the moon and the stars, and fail to follow through.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Don’t waste energy worrying, especially at work. It’s a good week to re-connect with colleagues, tell them what’s on your mind and keep them up to date with your plans. Mercury, Venus and Saturn encourage you to look at a troubled relationship in a perceptive and diplomatic new light. If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll just keep getting what you’re getting! So perhaps it’s time to re-set boundaries and roadtest some creative new strategies?
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
After five slow, frustrating months of retrogrades (Mars, Mercury, Venus and then Mercury again) many Sagittarians are feeling super restless. You’re itching to put on your travelling shoes! This week fiery Mars activates your adventure zone so travel, holidays and/or business trips are favoured from Friday until June 17. And with Jupiter jumping through your relationship zone, close partnerships have the potential to bring much laughter and joy.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Be careful you don’t undermine yourself this week Rams, or blame other people when things go wrong. With the Sun, Mercury and Neptune charging through Aries (and your ruler Mars moving into fiery Leo) it’s up to you to be proactive, plus fix things when they go haywire. So your motto is from Aries diva Diana Ross, “You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.”
22 TO JULY 22
The Sun, Mercury and Neptune activate your career/reputation zone so prepare for a few changes. But the more you try to control others, the more they will push back. So take a good long look at your motives. Perhaps you need to be a less clingy Crab? Maybe you could give someone more freedom, so they can fight their own battles and make their own mistakes? Food for thought this Easter, as you transform the way you connect with family, friends and colleagues.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Mercury and Neptune hook up in your relationship zone on Thursday, so think compassionately and speak kindly. Then – when mighty Mars charges into your hopes and wishes zone on Friday –it’s time to dream big dreams and take adventurous steps to make them come true. No sitting on the sidelines! Your motto is from Victoria Beckham (who turns 51 on Thursday), “If you can get your head around your dream, it means your dream isn’t big enough.”
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
This week fiery, impulsive Mars could complicate a financial situation. So proceed with a pragmatic attitude plus plenty of caution. No less than five planets fire up your family, friendship and neighbourhood zones as you express more love, compassion and understanding towards loved ones. Family and friends are the ones who really matter. As Michelle Obama (a fellow Capricorn) wisely observes, “Surround yourself with people who will make you better.”
Relax & Unwind
MUSIC CITY SHINES AS A
Despite its growing popularity –particularly amongst the bachelor and bachelorette party brigade – Nashville isn’t necessarily on the must-do list of travellers to the United States.
But amidst a country music resurgence and the ever-growing party vibes it generates, ‘music city’ is back in a big way – no longer just as a destination for die-hard Johnny Cash or Dolly Parton fans, but for a whole new generation experiencing ‘three chords and the truth’.
A warning first up: Nashville is busy these days, especially on a Friday and Saturday night. Which is why arriving on a Monday afternoon turned out to be a blessing in disguise of sorts.
“IT’S
As we hit the bars of Broadway – the main tourist hot spot, full of live music venues – it was a little quieter than you’d find it on a weekend, but certainly not a ghost town. Indeed Nashville is pumping with decent numbers and great music seven days a week, from late morning through to the wee hours of the next day.
For anyone going to enjoy the live music and soak up the atmosphere of the bars, I’d definitely advise getting in at least one early or mid-week night out – it almost lets you experience it all a little better, and you avoid that bachelorette crowd!
Most of the live music venues are country-based, but you’ll find a few that aren’t specific to the genre – including Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk and Jon Bon Jovi’s bar.
But when in Rome, right?
There’s a few country bars that are a must on Broadway: Tootsies, which first opened in 1960 and offers three levels of live music in an unmissable purple building, is a particular favourite.
It stands next to Robert’s Western World, another must-visit especially if you’re a fan of older country music and not the modern, pop-leaning style.
The larger Chief’s, which backing from country music superstar Eric Church, is a relatively new addition on Broadway and offers terrific views from its rooftop, while both Luke’s 32 Bridge and Aldean’s both offer terrific music, food and drinks menus.
Morgan Wallen’s This Bar, one of the newer Broadway venues, was where we found ourselves dancing and signing into the early hours of Tuesday morning (thanks largely to Nicole Summerlyn, an emerging artist who happened to be performing that night), while
Show Pony provided a unique atmosphere, plenty of fun and some of Broadway’s cheapest drinks.
Broadway is big, but not that big – you can easily bar hop and let the night take you away, so don’t be too pre-planned here.
Away from the bars, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the history of Nashville and its importance on the American and international music scenes.
A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a great way to learn about how Nashville became the home of country, and I’d highly recommend adding the Studio B tour – a short bus ride to an iconic recording studio where the likes of Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their biggest hits.
About 20 minutes from the centre of town you’ll find the Grand Ole Opry, which for the last 100 years has been the mother church
Live music at Tootsies.
The Grand Ole Opry stage.
Songwriters at the Bluebird Cafe.
Nashville’s Broadway is full of live music bars playing country hits.
PLACE TO PARTY IN USA
of country music. If you play the Opry stage, you’ve made it in Nashville – and the history of this concept – originally a radio show, now a live music phenomenon – is extraordinary.
If you can get yourself tickets to a show, don’t second guess it – just buy them! But regardless, make sure you do the backstage tour, which offers excellent insight into a country music institution.
“IT’S LIKE NOTHING YOU’VE EXPERIENCED BEFORE”
Another country music icon is the Bluebird Cafe, which first opened in the early 1980s but had a huge resurgence in popularity a few years back due to its regular appearances on the hit TV show ‘Nashville’.
Getting a ticket to this live show – generally featuring both established and emerging songwriters, along with surprise guests – is tough work. They go on sale a week before the show, which means an early alarm for us here in Australia.
Some limited tickets are made available at the door, but line up early!
Food is another big part of the Nashville
scene, and there’s so much to choose from.
You’ll find famous Nashville hot chicken pretty much anywhere, but Hattie B’s – despite being a chain – was by far our favourite.
If you like Mexican, make sure you book in for Bakersfield – a jug of margarita to kick things off, and then some of the most awesome authentic Mexican food you’ll ever have.
As for BBQ? You can’t go past Martin’s BBQ Joint, which has a few locations in Nashville.
Ask a Nashville local what to do in Nashville and they’ll tell you to avoid the above. It’s kind of like asking a Sydneysider if they’ve climbed the Harbour Bridge recently.
And of course, there’s some awesome things to do outside of the tourist hot spots in Nashville – visit Printer’s Alley and the Gulch region, for instance – but don’t be swayed by a local telling you to avoid Broadway. It’s like nothing you’ve experienced before,
and if you’re a country music fan – you’ll be in heaven. It’s a reminder of what Sydney lost when it went poker machine crazy. Nashville is getting a little expensive as it cashes in on the country music boom and becoming a party hot spot, but it is well worth visiting on your next American trip – both for its extraordinary music scene and it’s special history, much of it retained for new generations to enjoy.
The Grand Ole Opry, one of Nashville’s most famous country music venues. The best BBQ in town.
Alas and ...!
10. Hyperactivity disorder (1,1,1,1)
12. Evil spirit
14. Moan & ...
16. Greased
19. Throws (fishing line)
22. Tempt
23. Fixed (in one’s mind)
25. Value highly
26. Heavy horned animals
29. Lingers
32. Non-governmental organisation (1,1,1)
35. Skating entertainment (3,4)
37. Deplete (3,2)
38. Thumped
40. Adroit
41. Female peers
42. Radio station selector
43. Irritating complainers
44. Tendency
47. Palmed off
51. Union Army combatant
52. Wax taper
53. Formal argument
54. Word comparison
58. Futilely, to no ...
59. ... de toilette
61. Operative
63. Arab religion
64. Offshore drilling platform (3,3)
65. Potent
66. Lettuce meal
68. Old wives’ tales
71. Blood-sucking insect
72. Garbage disposal area
74. Flue
76. Thin cushions
78. Norway’s capital
80. Bloodshot (eyes)
83. ... voyage!
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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.
SCROOGE
TOM WILE E COYOTE
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about Peter Dutton in this week’s special trivia quiz... 1. In what decade was Peter Dutton born?
Peter Dutton worked as a police officer in which Australian state? 3. Peter Dutton has one brother and how many sisters? 4. Dutton was elected to the House of Representatives in what year?
5. John Howard handed Peter Dutton his first Ministerial role. What portfolio did he hold (appointed October 2004)?
6. Which Prime Minister appointed Peter Dutton as Health Minister and Minister for Sport in 2013?
7. Which NRL team does Peter Dutton support?
the continued support friendship of our clients and their pets. We won the Pet Care category in 2015, 2016 and 2019, and we are looking forward to the 2021 awards presentation!
Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any
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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.
Hand out for cash
Candidates respond to Cricket NSW’s plea for funding
With the Federal Election less than a month away, Cricket NSW has put the heat on local candidates to commit to supporting a local community sport infrastructure project at Boronia Park in North St Marys.
The project is part of an infrastructure boost for a larger multisport facility and will provide changerooms, toilets and storage for cricket users, alongside a new irrigation system for the cricket oval that will support the future Boronia Park Cricket Academy.
The asking contribution for the project is $650,000 from an overall cost of $1 million.
It is proposed the project would benefit those currently involved in the Nepean District Cricket Association, Cricket NSW and the St Marys Rugby League Club, and inspire more children to get involved in sport locally.
Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon said Federal Government support was crucial to infrastructure projects that have wide ranging benefits for the people of
Lindsay and the community in and around St Marys.
“The sporting community in Lindsay have identified the enormous benefits that these improvements would bring to the people of the Nepean area,” he said.
“There are more than 700 registered junior cricket players in the Nepean
call on the candidates in Lindsay to commit their support ahead of the election on May 3.
“We’d like to thank those who have already shown interest in this project and look forward to assisting our communities to make this a reality.”
The Weekender reached out to both major candidates for the seat of Lindsay
District Cricket Association and those people deserve access to quality, modern facilities.
“The health and wellbeing benefits from sport, whether that be cricket or at multi-purpose
about the prospect of throwing their weight behind a proposed facility at Boronia Park.
Current Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh said her track record in securing funding for local sporting clubs speaks for itself.
“Ensuring our local organisations can apply for funding opportunities is really important. It is our grassroots sporting organisations that help create the champions of the future,” she said.
“During my time as the Federal Member for Lindsay I’ve secured millions of dollars in funding for local clubs.
“Nepean District Cricket Association does so much for community sport, and I look forward to their further great work, and I’m very happy to continue working with them on what they need locally.”
When given the same opportunity by the Weekender to respond to Cricket NSW’s bold request, Labor candidate for Lindsay and current Penrith City Councillor Hollie McLean failed to address the proposal whatsoever.
“Labor is focused on making sure that every person in Penrith can get a tax cut, cheaper medicines and cheaper childcare,” she said.
“We’re also supporting better public transport with $5.5 billion
THE CLUB THAT REFUSES TO DIE
Story continued from » p.80
“There’s some really strong teams in Division 6, like Blacktown, Merrylands, North Cronulla, Manly and Georges River,” Fletcher said.
Prior to this Saturday’s clash against Merrylands at 3.15pm, the Emus will hold a small function at Nepean Rugby Park from 1pm for anyone wanting to celebrate the historic return.
With fine weather forecast and more than 12 months of planning in the books, Fletcher is excited to finally get things going.
“Everyone is really excited for it! There’s lots of people coming near and far who used to play for the club,” he said.
“We’ll have the famous Emu burger for sale, sausage sandwiches, plus the canteen and bar will also be running.”
Entry to this weekend’s season opener is free.
DISTRICT TENNIS ASSOCIATION
Cricket NSW have called for an upgrade to Boronia Park.
The local netball community will come out in force this weekend in support of a popular, long-time player and mother of two who’s going through the battle of her life.
Nicole Noal has been an integral part of the Cambridge Park Netball Club for 27 years, joining at the tender age of six.
Over the years, she has exemplified the values of teamwork, resilience and community spirit.
Beyond netball, Noal has dedicated 13 years to the NSW Police Force, serving both regional and metropolitan communities with distinction.
She’s also a devoted wife to a fellow officer and the loving mother of two daughters, eight-year-old Scarlett and five-year-old Zara.
A few years ago, Noal was given a bowel cancer diagnoses. However, thanks to the courage and support of her family and friends, she successfully underwent treatment and surgery.
However, in November last year,
Noal’s world came crashing down when she received the devastating news that her cancer had returned and was now deemed inoperable.
With specialists giving her an estimated 12 months to live, Noal’s determined to use the time she has left to create lasting memories with her family.
In light of this, the Cambridge Park Netball Club will host a 24-hour netball marathon this weekend to raise funds to assist Noal and her family with the financial burden of medical treatments and other expenses.
‘Netball for Nicole’ will take place this Saturday and Sunday at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre in Cambridge Park.
More than 100 players, volunteers and supporters from across the Penrith district and beyond are expected to get involved.
Speaking with the Weekender, event co-ordinator and Noal’s long-time friend, Rachael Coombe, said it’s going to be a very special weekend for a very special person.
“I’ve known Nicole for a long time. She’s been part of the Cambridge Park Netball family since she was
six years of age. We played together for many years,” Coombe said.
“Right now, Nicole’s feeling the love from her community as well as from her teammates and friends. She’s in pretty good spirits but understandably goes through waves of emotion. She’s focused on making some amazing memories with her girls and her husband.”
People young and old are invited to head along to the Netball for Nicole event this weekend, which will see “one giant game” of netball played non-stop for 24 hours.
“It will be a normal game of netball with scoring and umpires controlling the game expect there won’t be any quarters or breaks – we just keep going with rolling subs, we power through,” Coombe explained.
“It’s open to everybody – even if you haven’t played netball before. We have someone as young as six and someone in their late 60s registered to play. We’ll have some junior timeslots and transition into senior timeslots. We will be playing right through the midnight hours, but I don’t know how many goals will be scored then.”
visit https:// shorturl.at/09UNj. It costs $24 to be involved.
“We’re something comfortable and that’s easy to run and play in. Registrations are still open, and we encourage everyone to come down – the more the merrier,” Coombe said, hoping to see a big crowd at the venue to support Nicole.
TENSION’S
Netball for Nicole will begin at 9.10am this Saturday, April 12 at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre. To register either as a player, volunteer or umpire,
NATHAN TAYLOR
Nicole Noal and her young family.
SPORTS SHORTS
WITH
NATHAN TAYLOR
Slow start for Giants in Super Netball
NETBALL: Despite a big crowd cheering them on, Giants Netball have lost their season opener against the Queensland Firebirds 62-57 in Round 1 of the Super Netball competition. A battle of last season’s bottom two, the clash was always going to be fuelled by passion and pride, with both teams having a massive point to prove in 2025. Both teams had their moments throughout the match, with the Firebirds getting off to a strong start before the Giants stood tall in the second quarter. The Queenslanders would lead by five points heading to the final quarter and they would maintain that lead right to the end. The Giants will travel to Melbourne this Sunday afternoon to play the Vixens at John Cain Arena.
BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have had a mixed weekend against Manly Warringah in Round 2 of the NBL1 East competition. Playing at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre last Sunday, Penrith’s women’s team were unable to win back-to-back games, crushed by the Sea Eagles 85-63. Penrith skipper Mia Heide top scored with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Meanwhile, Penrith’s men’s team are celebrating their first victory of the season, defeating the Sea Eagles 84-72. Panthers captain Lachlan Charlton was huge for his side, racking up 20 points and five rebounds. Penrith will remain at home this Friday night when they battle the Hills Hornets.
to Danika Matos. The Wanderers will look to regroup when they travel to Brisbane to play the Roar at Perry Park on Sunday afternoon.
Easter Open, a prestigious event which will be held next Thursday, April 17 to Monday, April 21. This event will see over 500 players compete in their respective Junior or Opens age group to claim the title of Champion for 2025. “This event will bring with it a positive impact to the local economy, as the players will be travelling with family, friends and coaching staff into the Nepean region,” Nepean Tennis President, Michael Ensor said. “If you are looking for something to do over the Easter long weekend, why not pop on down to Nepean Tennis and show your support to the local and travelling tennis players.”
FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have risen to fourth on the A-League Men’s ladder after they drew 1-1 with competition’s leaders Auckland FC last Saturday in New Zealand. The handy result extended Western Sydney’s unbeaten run to an incredible eight matches. Auckland FC scored on the stroke of half-time after a terrible blunder from goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas. Thankfully the Wanderers would equalise early into the second half when Nicolas Milanovic scored his 11th goal of the season to move atop of the goalscoring ranks. The Wanderers return home this Sunday evening in a huge match against Western United at CommBank Stadium where they will be celebrating the contribution of the grassroots community with their annual Grassroots Recognition Round.
FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers A-League women’s team fell to Melbourne Victory 1-0 at Wanderers Football Park last Sunday. Victory’s goal in the 18th minute came via an own goal, which was credited
NETBALL: Panthers Netball have had a big week on the court, playing two rounds of netball in one week. In Round 4, the Panthers Opens team lost to the Central Coast Heart 62-52, while the Panthers U23s team enjoyed a 59-49 win over the Heart. In Round 5, the Panthers Opens team suffered a heavy 72-38 loss to the UTS Randwick Sparks, while the Panthers U23s team chalked up a 61-57 win. Panthers will face-off against North Shore United in Round 6 next Wednesday.
AFL: The Penrith Rams have been blown off the park by the Manly Warringah Wolves 89-30 in the opening round of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. Played at Mike Pawley Oval, the Wolves led at the end of every quarter. Penrith’s Zac Lange notched up two goals in the heavy defeat. Penrith will aim to bounce back when they take on Sydney University this Saturday afternoon at Greygums Oval. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes have kicked off their season with a 41-34 loss to the Manly Warringah Wolves in Round 1 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes fought back in the final quarter but it wasn’t enough. The Ramettes will battle the UNSW-ES Bulldogs this Saturday morning at Greygums Oval.
AFL: The GWS Giants are back in business, torching the West Coast Eagles 132-51 at ENGIE Stadium last Sunday afternoon. Giants star Jesse Hogan bagged a phenomenal nine goals – a career-high – in the 81-point thumping. The Giants sit in fourth position on the ladder and will take on St Kilda this Sunday afternoon at Norwood Oval in Adelaide
TENNIS: Nepean District Tennis Association hosted a Regional Matchplay Series event last Sunday. With perfect weather conditions, 119 players competed from around the state, the competition spanning across both Nepean Tennis and Springwood Tennis to ensure all matches could be played. All players displayed great quality of tennis as well as good sportsmanship as they played to be crowned the winner of their respective event. Nepean Tennis will also host the 59th annual Nepean
RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 4 of NSWRL Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys belted Brothers Penrith 38-8. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys enjoyed a narrow win over Brothers Penrith 26-22.
RUGBY LEAGUE: Penrith are through to the Finals of the Lisa Fiaola Cup after demolishing the St George Dragons 46-0 last weekend. In the Tarsha Gale Cup, Penrith lost their final game of the season to the Dragons 30-10, but they will also advance to the Finals thanks to their fourth-place finish after nine rounds.
Panthers are Finals-bound.
RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 9 of the NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend, with Penrith having an excellent weekend of results. In the Harold Matthews Cup, Penrith were too good for the Central Coast Roosters 32-16. The Panthers ended the year in 13th position with two wins, a draw, and five losses. In the SG Ball Cup, Penrith defeated the North Sydney Bears 36-22. The Panthers ended the season in 12th position with two wins, one draw and six losses.
GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message me on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.
The Giants lost to the Firebirds.
The Wanderers continue to climb the ladder.
The
Netball for Nicole – see page 78
EMUS ARE BACK
The Penrith Emus will make their long-awaited comeback this Saturday afternoon at Nepean Rugby Park, but their return to the big stage hasn’t been without some late drama.
Late last month the club was advised that head coach Daine Walker had quit his post due to personal reasons unrelated to rugby.
The significant news then saw a reshuffle, with former player and second grade
coach John Wickenden stepping up to lead the side with Adam Caruana his assistant.
Speaking with the Weekender, Penrith
Emus President Adam Fletcher said losing a coach mere weeks out from the season wasn’t ideal, but he fully supported Walker’s decision to depart.
“Due to the nature of his personal circumstances, the players were all supportive of it too and they were really liking what John was bringing to the training sessions, so it was a fait accompli – it was the logical step,” Fletcher said.
“John’s played at the Blue Mountains and
over at Eastwood, he was a good player and we could see that in his coaching.
“He’s very much a player’s coach; in-fact the boys really wanted him to play with them this year as well. He still keeps very fit!”
After close to two years in the wilderness, the Emus will return to the paddock this Saturday when they play Merrylands in Division 6 of the NSW Suburban Rugby Union competition.
From this weekend until the Grand Final in September, the Emus will battle it out against eight other teams for the coveted
Meldrum Cup. As they were only fielding one full-time team this season, Penrith were placed into the highly competitive Division 6.
“We had 100 people say they would play for us this season, but it really came down to visible players that we were seeing regularly at training, who were fit to play, and who were also buying in,” Fletcher said.
“We decided to keep the circle small and we’ll look at the possibility of adding more teams the following season.”
