Western Weekender April 30 2026

Don’t forget Mum! Check out our special Mother’s Day feature ahead of the big day next week! See Pages 26-32

CHIEF TARGET

Alarm bells are ringing at the Penrith Panthers, with a host of senior players including Brian To’o giving every indication they intend to put themselves on the open market later this year. And the PNG Chiefs are set to come calling in the wake of securing former Panther Jarome Luai to one of the richest deals in NRL history. Full coverage inside today’s Extra Time.

DECISION”: CHILDCARE CENTRE TO CLOSE ITS DOORS

SAFETY AT RISK

APenrith childcare centre will cease operations with “safety, rights and best interests” of children given as the core reason.

Greenwood Penrith, located in the historic Thornton Hall, will officially close its doors on Friday, May 15.

“Children and families sit at the heart of everything

we do, and this commitment has guided a difficult decision that was not made lightly,” a letter sent to parents last week said.

No specific circumstances for the closure were provided in the letter, but the Weekender is aware of action that has been taken against the centre by authorities.

In May last year, the centre was issued an Emergency Action Notice by the State Government over non-com-

pliance with laws and regulations.

The Notice stated that the service was “operating in a matter that poses, or is likely to pose, an immediate risk to the safety, health or wellbeing of a child or children being educated and cared for by the service”.

It is one of four enforcement actions issued to the service over the past two years.

Story continues on » p. 3

Photo: NRL Photos.

Teachers demand action over “decaying” facility

Teachers from a school in St Marys are slamming the state of their school’s Multi-Purpose Centre (MPC), labelling it “embarrassing” while calling for funding for a new building.

A herd of teachers from St Marys Senior High School descended upon Deputy Premier, Member for Londonderry and Minister for Education Prue Car’s office on Queen Street last week after their request for a meeting was denied.

“Prue Car is our local member. It is her job to advocate for her community. She knows the state of that building – she has been in it many times,” NSW Teachers Federation Representative at St Marys Senior High School Dean Newbold said.

“After 10 weeks of asking, we still have no response from her to our request for a meeting about replacing the MPC.

“It is not as if Prue Car has not been around. I have seen many pictures of her cutting ribbons around western Sydney. I think she carries a big pair of scissors around with her just in case.”

The building has sat on the grounds of the high school for over

five decades with Newbold saying it was never “fit for purpose”.

“We are here because the leaky concrete bunker that passes for the MPC was a poor design in the 70s and is now a decaying shell that is no longer fit for purpose,” he said.

“The building is an insult to our students, our community and to public education. I am ashamed every time one of our talented students tries to perform on that tired stage. I am embarrassed every

time we invite our community into the decaying and sweltering MPC to celebrate our students’ success.”

A Department of Education spokesperson told the Weekender it would continue to “work with the school” on the concerns.

“The department is committed to ensuring students and staff have access to safe and functional learning environments,” the spokesperson said.

“In the past three years, we have

delivered almost $1 million in maintenance improvements at St Marys Senior High School, including new floor coverings, fencing works and remediation of the sports court.

“The department will continue to work with the school to address additional maintenance needs, including in the multipurpose centre.”

Car said she has followed up on the concerns.

“Safe, high-quality facilities are

important to support learning in our schools, which is why I asked the department to visit the school and work with the principal on the school’s needs,” she said.

“Independent advice received confirms the hall is structurally sound and fit-for-purpose, and we’re working on targeted repairs and maintenance to uplift the building.”

Last week’s protest happened on a school development day.

PILL ACCESS BOOST

Sensible change: Contraceptive pill to be available from local pharmacists

EMILY CHATE

The State Government will invest $4.5 million to make it easier for women to access the contraceptive pill by allowing eligible pharmacists to prescribe it directly for women over the age of 18.

Women will be able to access the pill quickly through their eligible local pharmacy, without needing to book a GP appointment.

The State Government will pay for the first 5,000 consultations with a trained pharmacist, and once exhausted it is expected to cost between $20 and $60 for a consultation.

“This is basic healthcare for millions of Australian women – and this is about making it easier to get that care, without extra cost or hassle,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.

“Just because something’s always been done a certain way, it doesn’t mean it’s the best way to keep doing it – it’s not working for busy women to access a doctor to get a script.

“Being able to go to your local pharmacy and sort it out quickly just makes sense.”

Pharmacists trained with a graduate certificate from James Cook University will be able to prescribe contraception for women at lower risk of complications, after the participation in an NSW induction to reproductive health course.

It is anticipated that up to 60 pharmacists will be eligible to start, with more pharmacists coming online as they complete the graduate certificate.

Senior Vice of President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch Catherine Bronger welcomed the announcement.

“This announcement recognises trained community pharmacists can safely deliver essential women’s health services where and when women need them,” Bronger said.

“Expanding pharmacists’ ability to initiate and continue contraception is vital to improving access for women facing cost, time or postcode barriers to seeing a GP.”

Once endorsed by all Health Ministers, Universities will be able to apply to have their courses accredited and pharmacists who have undertaken appropriate training will have an endorsement on their registration.

“Access to contraception should not be a burden for women, and the NSW Government is providing new solutions to make life easier, more affordable and safer for women,” Minister for Health Ryan Park said.

The Pharmacy Board of Australia will also be releasing national guidelines on endorsed pharmacist prescribers.

Participating community pharmacists will be able to resupply additional contraceptive options, including additional oral contraceptive pills, the medroxyprogesterone acetate injection, and the combined hormonal contraceptive ring.

“I’m excited to announce that women in NSW will now have ongoing and easier ways to continue their chosen contraception option through community pharmacies.”

Pharmacists will be able to prescribe the contraceptive pill.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

The teachers outside Prue Car’s office. Photo: Emily Chate.

Business booms for a growing community

Local builder and developer

Astina Group has put its own spin on industrial property with Astina Space in Emu Plains.

The complex on David Road offers dual-height micro-industrial units to give people a place to grow their businesses, a location to pursue their hobbies, or a room to store their belongings.

A happy side effect is the sense of community business-owners have found – including the owners of N&B Electrical Solutions and More Than Muscle.

“We’ve been up and running for almost five years now,” explained co-owner of N&B Electrical Solutions Nathan Wainwright.

“We started out by doing weekends and afternoons – banging and clanging and running around. Then that snowballed into taking Fridays off from our full-time employment and now we’re doing this.”

The business’ other owner Brad Mathias told the Weekender the industrial hub encourages referral economy.

“The intermingling between each unit is great. We’ve done a lot of work for other units – whether they are other businesses or people who own them personally – which has been great for us as a business,”

Mathias said.

The owners of More than Muscle – a fitness apparel and casualwear brand – described the environment as inspiring.

“We’ve transitioned from a side hustle in our garages to a more professional space. There’s more room, there’s office space, and there’s more going on in our

environment. It’s motivating to be around other people and small businesses,” said co-owner Brock Waugh.

“The other notable benefit of renting this space is having the concierge Michelle who is super helpful. We have a lot of packages come in daily, and when we’re not here, she brings them in and lets

us know that we’ve received something,” co-owner Joel Kellett added. In addition to the concierge, Astina Space boasts shared amenities like a boardroom and car wash bay, 24/7 secure access, an on-site café, free Wi-Fi, and free shared access to trucks, a forklift, a trailer, and other machinery.

“You’ve got guys who sell bodybuilding attire and you’ve got electrical contractors who are hanging out and co-working. Once we’re at full capacity, this will be such a bustling little industry hub of so many different businesses,” described Astina Group Director William Schrumpf.

“I can’t wait to see how it functions with so many different people. Hopefully we’ve created an ecosystem where each of the units gets work from just talking to the neighbour next door or across the hall.”

Join the growing business community and find out more about Astina Space at www.astinaspace.com.au.

Centre to close, others follow

A regulatory visit to the Penrith centre took place in February and it is understood another Emergency Action Notice was issued.

The letter issued to parents last week, viewed by the Weekender, gave them just a few weeks to find alternative childcare arrangements for their children.

“After careful consideration, we will be suspending operations at Greenwood Penrith,” the letter said.

The letter went on to say that the decision to close the service was made “with the safety, rights and best interests of children as the paramount consideration following careful and thoughtful review”.

“Our focus and priority is to deliver the best possible outcomes for families, ensuring children can continue to grow, thrive and learn in safe and supportive environments,” the letter said.

The centre is managed by G8 Education, which is a large childcare provider with hundreds of centres.

The Penrith centre can cater for more than 150 children when at full capacity.

It has also been confirmed this week that G8 Education is planning to shut up to 40 of its centres nationwide due to occupancy concerns.

“G8 Education has proactively assessed its network to ensure we remain sustainable, resilient and

well positioned to continue delivering safe, high quality early education and care over the long term,” said CEO and Managing Director, Pejman Okhovat.

“We have carefully considered where our resources can be most effectively allocated to support quality early education and care outcomes.”

It did not name the 40 centres it would close, but said it would support families and educators to relocate to other centres.

In addition to suspending services, G8 said it would look at other cost saving initiatives and review its Support Office structure.

G8 was also rocked last year when it was revealed that Joshua Dale

Brown was charged with more than 70 sex offences whilst employed at G8 centres and other childcare facilities in Victoria. There is no suggestion of child

abuse at Greenwood. Do you know more about the issues at Greenwood? Email Emily.Chate@westernweekender. com.au.

Community Walk-in Session

Defence is holding a community walk-in information session about the divestment of Defence sites in the New South Wales. This is an opportunity for the local community to learn more about the divestment process, transition planning and next steps. Light refreshments will be served and all are welcome

Details

Date: Monday 4 May 2026

Venue: Glenbrook Panthers Bowling Club, 1 Hare Street, Glenbrook

Time: Attendance is welcome anytime between 5:30 pm — 7:30 pm

RSVP: To register your attendance please use the QR code provided, or the contact details below

Phone: 1800 333 362

Email: estate.engagement@defence.gov.au

Astina Space. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Joel and Brock.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

sexual

Greenwood Penrith will close. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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Forever thought-provoking

ames Valentine was an extraordinary broadcaster, but his strongest and most poignant message may have come with his passing last week.

Valentine’s death at just 64 following a diagnosis of oesophageal cancer two years ago was felt deeply through Sydney.

The ABC Radio presenter had his finger on the pulse of the city for so long, and it was no surprise that so many were rocked by the news of his death.

Valentine was not as loud as Alan Jones, Ray Hadley or John Laws.

Perhaps didn’t have the bravado of Kyle Sandilands or the media pizazz of Ben Fordham, his breakfast rivals for a few years.

But as Fordham himself said last week, Valentine was radio’s “best listener”.

Conversation was his talent.

Some have called him radio’s most unprepared presenter.

It was not a criticism, moreso a reflection of his style. He let his listeners guide the show, rarely preparing the minute-by-minute rundown that is traditional in news talk radio.

And it is those deep and thoughtful conversations with listeners that meant he was able to break through and have that ‘friendship’ with people that is the key to any radio presenter’s success.

I admit, I was only a casual listener.

Rusted on to the ABC I am not.

But as someone who loves radio, I would often find myself flicking over to the ABC during the afternoon program and then not realising 10 minutes later I was still there.

I listened more frequently when he moved to breakfast in 2022 but it was probably no surprise he went back to afternoons for the final chapter of his radio career.

It was where he belonged and where his listeners loved him most.

Valentine wasn’t about setting the agenda as is often the focus of breakfast radio.

He was about reacting to it, about making you think.

He would fill that afternoon lull, perhaps better than anyone on any station. That part of the day where a city takes a collective breath after the rush of the morning.

As fellow ABC broadcaster Richard Glover noted following Valentine’s passing, probably nobody made more people feel better. He was about lifting the spirits of Sydney, not talking the city down.

When he was first diagnosed with cancer in 2024, Valentine went through the process many of us have followed, whether it be directly or as a support person for a family member or friend.

He did all the doctor’s appointments, followed the medical advice, got the best treatment he could.

Took his family on the journey with him, always keeping his beloved wife and children close.

Didn’t want to give up.

“As he would have wanted, he left us with a damn good conversation starter”

But when his cancer returned and hope started to dim, Valentine’s focus started to turn to what death might look like.

We all handle such a grim diagnosis differently.

Some, when given that terrible news that there is no hope left, crawl into a shell. They don’t want to talk about it, which is understandable.

Others embrace the journey ahead, short as it may be.

In Valentine’s case, he was adamant he wanted to go out his way.

And so he invested Voluntary Assisted Dying, something he had become a supporter of following the advocacy of his former ABC colleague, Andrew Denton.

In The Sydney Morning Herald in the hours after his passing, Garry Maddox penned an emotional story about Valentine’s final hours. His wife was quoted in the story.

“The three of us said goodbye to him and he was immediately just at peace. It was beautiful,” she said.

His wife and two children spent the hours following the public announcement of Valentine’s death on the balcony of their home, listening to the tributes on ABC Radio. It was the platform that gave Valentine a voice. Now it was his listeners speaking, some with cracked voices obvious through the air waves, others with wonderful stories about his impact on their lives.

Valentine was not one to shove his opinions down your throat so his support of Voluntary Assisted Dying is not something that defined his commentary or his content.

But boy, what a powerful message he has left upon his passing.

This subject has been taboo for too long and one we should be having open and frank conversations about.

Life is precious, joyous, devastating, mundane... different words for different moments and stages of our time on Earth. Most of us try to live our lives with respect and dignity.

And so why shouldn’t we want that in death, too?

If one can avoid the pain and decline that can so often dominate the final stages of our lives, why would we not consider it?

Many have described Voluntary Assisted Dying as a beautiful experience.

Death is far from beautiful at times, but there is no reason it can’t be respectful. No reason that your final moments can’t be defined by your wishes, your desires, your beliefs.

James Valentine had an extraordinary life and remarkable public presence.

He impacted the lives of many, including those who he never knew.

And I suspect in the wake of his passing, he will impact many more.

Some of those people will perhaps have never listened to a moment of him on air.

The way he left the world will not define Valentine’s contribution to it, but it will certainly be part of his legacy. And as he would have wanted, he left us with a damn good conversation starter.

Impact of assistance dogs on show

Over the next 10 years, Assistance Dogs Australia plans to help 10,000 people in need by pairing them up with their ultimate four-legged companion.

Kate Washington – Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion – toured the Orchard Hills facility last week for a demonstration of the dogs’ skills.

“Seeing and hearing the impact that these dogs have in the lives of people with disability is really powerful,” she said.

“When it comes to disability inclusion and the importance of ensuring people with disability live as independently as possible, assistance dogs are playing a really

important role.”

While on the tour, the minister met John Hill, a Vietnam veteran with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder who relies on his assistance dog Yoda to guide him through his day and wake him up from nightmares.

Hill told the Weekender that prior to having Yoda by his side, he barely left the house.

“I would go to the supermarket and get halfway through my shopping before dropping the basket and leaving. Since I’ve had him, I haven’t walked out of a supermarket,” Hill explained.

“He becomes a distraction. If something upsets me – like noises or too many people around – he’s there for me, which brings my anxiety down. He nudges his head against my leg if he feels me tense up.

“He doesn’t get rid of my anxiety – he’s not a cure – but he does help. He’s given me freedom.”

Assistance Dogs Australia CEO Tim Taylor was proud to showcase the charity’s work.

“I wanted to give the minister a really good understanding of what assistance dogs do and the impact they have on people with disabilities, as well as an understanding of how much training goes into ensuring our dogs are able to be in public safely,” Taylor explained.

“I think having someone like John explain his journey and the difference his dog makes was powerful.”

Taylor hopes to see volunteer numbers rise this year so the organisation can continue helping people like John.

“Raising a pup into an assistance

dog takes a village, and a critical part of our operations is volunteers,” Taylor stated.

“There are different types of volunteering roles. Our biggest role is someone who can have a puppy in their home for 12 months to help us

socialise them and begin their early education.

“But there are also a lot of flexible volunteering roles that involve simply taking a dog on a weekend.”

Find out more at www.assistancedogs.org.au.

Tim Taylor, Kate Washington, Chris Debenjak, John Hill and Yoda. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Penrith: Woman resists arrest, assaults officer

At 3.50pm on Wednesday, April 22 police attended a shopping centre on Woodriff Street in Penrith. A 34-year-old woman had been issued a move on direction from the centre by police earlier in the day and was seen at the centre again by police.

Police began to speak with the 34-year-old outside, but she began to become aggressive and agitated. The 34-year-old was asked to sit down on a nearby seat but her aggression continued. Again, the woman was asked to sit, and an officer placed his hand on the 34-year-old’s shoulder to guide her down but the woman without warning pushed one of the officers in the chest.

A short struggle ensued and the 34-yearold was handcuffed. The woman and her handbag were searched during which police found a man’s watch, currency from a different country, and a bag containing the drug ice. The 34-year-old was placed under arrest.

A caged police car arrived, and the 34-yearold was asked to get inside but she refused.

The 34-year-old was made to enter the police car and was taken to Penrith Police Station where she was formally charged.

The 34-year-old will appear in Penrith Local Court today.

Cranebrook: Teenager caught stealing alcohol

On Saturday, April 11, Monday, April 20 and Thursday, April 23 a teenage boy attended an alcohol store in Cranebrook where over the three days he stole over $761 worth of alcohol. Police were informed and identified the teenager as a 14-year-old from Werrington.

At 1.20pm on Friday, April 24 police attended the teenager’s address in Werrington where he was arrested. The 14-year-old was charged and bail refused by police.

The 14-year-old appeared before a children’s court who released him on bail to reappear in court at a later date.

Penrith: Man assaults security guard on night out

At 2.20am on Saturday, April 25 a 22-yearold Cranebrook man was asked to leave a licenced premises in Penrith by security but became aggressive.

The 22-year-old left the location and was waiting at the taxi rank where he argued with other patrons and engaged in a heated verbal argument with another man.

Security saw the 22-year-old becoming increasingly aggressive and stood in between the 22-year-old and the other man. The

22-year-old then pushed the security guard in the chest. The security guard asked the 22-year-old to step back but the 22-year-old instead raised his fist and punched the security guard in the face.

Other security guards assisted and police were called to the scene. The 22-year-old was arrested and charged with ‘common assault’. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, May 27.

Cranebrook: Woman charged with high range drink driving

At 6pm on Sunday, April 26 police were patrolling Castlereagh Road in Cranebrook when they saw a car driving erratically. Police stopped the car near Lambridge Place and had a conversation with the driver, a 46-year-old Freemans reach woman.

The 46-year-old was submitted to a breath test which returned a positive result. The woman was arrested and taken to a nearby RBT bus for the purpose of a secondary breath analysis which returned a positive reading of 0.204.

The 46-year-old’s licence was suspended.

Cranebrook: Man caught high range drink driving

At 3am on Sunday, April 26 police were patrolling Old Bathurst Road in Emu Heights when they saw a car travelling at a high speed. Police stopped the car and had a conversation with the driver, a 46-year-old Glenbrook man. He was submitted to a breath test which returned a positive result.

The 46-year-old was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station for the purpose of a second breath analysis which returned a positive reading of 0.163.

The 46-year-old’s licence was suspended, and he will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, June 18.

Penrith: Two men caught with house breaking equipment

At 3.15am on Monday, April 17 police were called to a residential block on High Street in Penrith where two men had been seen in the underground car park near open storage cages with their contents strewn around.

Police attended and stopped a 28-year-old Mount Riverview man and a 29-year-old Winmalee man just down the road from the unit block who matched the description given by witnesses. Both men were searched and numerous items were found including bolt cutters, hammers, motor bike gear and gardening equipment.

Both men were arrested and charged.

IF

I

AM A DIRECTOR OF A COMPANY, WHAT ARE MY DIRECTORS’ DUTIES?

In Australia, being a director of a company is serious business.

A director must help run the company honestly, carefully, and in the company’s interests – not their own.

Here are the main duties:

Act in the company’s best interests

A director must make decisions for the benefit of the company as a whole, and for a proper business reason.

Example: Approving a contract because it is good for the company is proper. Approving it mainly to help a friend or family member is not.

Be careful and pay attention

A director must act with the care and diligence that a reasonable person would use in that role. This means staying informed, reading financial information, asking questions, and not simply rubber-stamping decisions.

Example: Before signing off on accounts, a director should read them and understand the major issues. Directors cannot avoid responsibility by saying they relied entirely on management or the company accountant.

Do not misuse the position

A director must not use the role to get a personal benefit, help someone else unfairly, or harm the company.

Example: Taking a company opportunity for yourself, or using company money for a personal dispute, may be improper.

Do not misuse company information Information learned as a director must not be used for personal gain or to damage the company.

Example: A director cannot use confidential company plans to set up a competing business.

Avoid conflicts of interest

A director should not put personal interests ahead of the company’s interests. If there is a material personal interest, it should be disclosed and managed properly.

Example: If the company is considering leasing premises owned by the director, that interest should be disclosed before any decision is made.

Prevent insolvent trading

A director must not allow the company to keep incurring debts if it cannot pay them when due.

Example: If the company cannot pay suppliers, wages, or tax debts on time, the directors must not keep ordering stock on credit as if everything is normal.

Consequences for breach

If a director breaches these duties, the consequences can be serious. They may have to repay money, compensate the company for loss, face civil penalties, be disqualified from managing companies, and in some cases be personally liable.

If you are thinking of becoming a director of a company you need to consider these things carefully.

FACILITIES BOOST FOR POLICE RECRUITS

Two new facilities worth more than $10 million have been officially opened at the NSW Police Academy, bolstering the first class training opportunities available to students.

Police recruits studying at the Goulburn Academy will now benefit by having access to a new skid pan and a refurbished and modernised fitness centre.

The Academy Fitness Centre was upgraded at a cost of $5.5 million, featuring a new gym floor, modern equipment, office space and bathroom facilities. The new, modern centre has increased in size by 40 per cent

and provides state of the art gym and fitness equipment.

The gym will assist students to enhance their physical capability through strength and conditioning training.

The facility also includes a new social recreation area with tennis, basketball, netball and pickleball courts.

A new, state-of-the-art skid pan has also been built at the nearby Police Driver Training complex, which includes facilities for driver training, operational safety training, firearms training and specialised training for tactical police units.

AUTISM IN FIRING LINE

Spending cuts to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) won’t be entirely driven by tens of thousands of people with disabilities being kicked off its supports, the minister responsible says.

NDIS Minister Mark Butler has defended controversial reforms to the scheme, which would involve removing 160,000 people and reassessing all participants, regardless of their disability.

The changes are set to save the NDIS $15 billion annually by the end of the decade, but have prompted criticism from disability groups who fear scheme participants will be left behind without federal support.

Butler said measures to cut the cost of the scheme would be in place long before the first tranche of people were removed in 2028.

“The reductions you’ll see in spending don’t reflect people coming off the scheme,” he told Sky News.

“This is going to be a much more efficient, but also effective, way in which to give support to people, frankly, who were never intended to

be covered by the NDIS in the first place.”

Laws will be introduced to parliament next month to reduce spending growth in the scheme to two per cent each year over the next four years.

National cabinet, which involves federal, state and territory leaders, previously agreed to reduce spending growth on the scheme to eight

per cent as NDIS costs swelled, becoming one of the largest items in the federal budget.

The eligibility assessments will be drawn up by a taskforce and the disability community, but Butler said he expected many people with autism would be removed from the NDIS.

“It really won’t matter what condi tion or disability you have – you will

be assessed through a program or through an assessment process that applies equally across the scheme,” he said.

“Obviously, given that people with autism are such a big part of the scheme’s population, you’d expect them to be a reasonably substantial part of that 160,000.”

scheme with severe disabilities having to go through eligibility requirements all over again.

“What we’re looking at is the ability of people to function in a day-to-day sense,” he said.

“This will be, frankly, much more evidence-based than the diagnosis gateway I’ve talked about really being the way in which people get onto the scheme.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has held talks with Opposition Leader Angus Taylor.

Opposition assistant NDIS spokesman Henry Pike said the Coalition would try to work with the government on the changes.

He said he had little confidence the spending growth targets of just two per cent would be met.

“They haven’t delivered any of the reforms they’ve proposed so far, so I’ve got very little faith they’re going to be able to implement what they’re promising,” he said.

“There’s a lot of people outside the scheme who I think deserve support, and there’s a lot of people within the scheme who are very deserving, but also some who have

Health Minister Mark Butler is responsible for the NDIS reforms.

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Council Briefs

Penrith After Dark this Saturday

PENRITH AFTER DARK

Saturday 2 May

works were proudly funded by Penrith City Council in partnership with the NSW Government.

Find out more at

Have your say on our draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030

The wait is almost over–Penrith After Dark is on this Saturday from 5–10pm! Don't miss out on this exciting late-night dining extravaganza in the heart of Penrith City! Gather your friends and family for an evening of delicious food and drinks, electrifying roving performers and live entertainment along High Street and Woodriff Street, Penrith. Savour the best of Penrith’s local eateries and experience the vibrant streets of Penrith come alive for a wonderful evening of late-night fun at Penrith After Dark. Penrith After Dark is delivered as part of the Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program, proudly funded by the NSW Government, in association with Penrith City Council.

For more information, please visit Don’t miss out on Trees for Mum!

Looking for the perfect gift for Mum? Join us on Sunday 10 May from 8.30am–12pm at Cadda Ridge Drive Reserve in Caddens for our annual Trees for Mum!

We’ve divided the day into 30-minute sessions with registrations essential to help our Bushcare team provide enough plants for all participants.

Find out more and register at

performance for local football players and supporters. These essential

We’re asking people with disability, carers, families and friends of people with disability, and providers and advocacy groups to review our draft and provide feedback on our 4-year plan.

Find out more at

The following Development Applications have been received by Council:

• Taylor Designs DA26/0320

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 5 x Town Houses (Multi Dwelling Housing) with associated landscaping, stormwater drainage works and Strata title subdivision

Contact: Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726

Closing Date: Sunday 17 May 2026

• NF Billyard Pty Ltd

DA26/0293

Demolition of all existing structures and construction of 9 x Town Houses (Multi Dwelling Housing) with associated landscaping and stormwater drainage works

Contact: Jodie Schembri on 732 7449

Closing Date: Sunday 17 May 2026

cupboard prize

The Morphy Richards 6.5L Digital Air Fryer is the must-have item for your kitchen. Say goodbye to greasy take-aways and hello to healthier, crispier cooking with this premium air fryer – perfect for everything from golden chips to juicy roast chicken. With a spacious 6.5-litre capacity, it’s big enough for family meals and entertaining. This air fryer features a LED touch control panel and eight preset cooking programs, so you can simply choose a mode and let it work its magic. It’s engineered to circulate hot air rapidly around

your food, giving that satisfying crunch you love with little to no added oil, which means healthier eating without compromising on flavour. Designed with convenience in mind, the fryer includes a non-stick PTFE-coated drawer and frying rack that are both dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze after any feast. The transparent drawer window with internal light lets you monitor progress without interrupting cooking, while a 60-minute timer and adjustable temperatures from 40°C to 200°C give you full control over a wide variety of recipes.

Whether you’re air-frying crisp veggies, baking

juicy drumsticks, reheating pizza with that freshout-of-the-oven texture, or experimenting with your favourite treats, this air fryer makes everyday cooking fun and effortless. The Weekender has a Morphy Richards Air Fryer to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Fryer’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, May 7 and the winner will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

do you know where this picture was taken?

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

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

Last week’s photo was taken at Coachman’s Park, St Marys. my name: Snowball (white) and Teddybear (ginger) my proud owner: Rachel Crothers i live in: Kingswood

and concerning.

a bit about me: During the day, we both love bird watching, and at night we like to keep an eye out for stray cats.

Email alison.hall@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.

Secret is out as Penrith is showcased via video

Penrith is enjoying a moment in the spotlight, with the city’s feature episode of ‘Streets Discovered’ surpassing 400,000 views on YouTube, showcasing the region to audiences far beyond its borders.

Backed by a $10,000 investment from the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, the project was commissioned as part of the Chamber’s broader advocacy efforts to promote Penrith as a destination, support the visitor economy, and build civic pride as the region enters a new era of growth.

The episode highlights some of Penrith’s standout natural assets, lifestyle experiences, hospitality venues and local stories, helping present the city through a fresh and compelling lens.

Chamber President, Richard Fox said the response showed there was a strong appetite for authentic stories about Penrith.

“This result proves what many of us already know. Penrith has a story worth telling, and people are interested in discovering it,” he said.

“We are a city with incredible natural beauty, world-class adventure assets, passionate local businesses and a strong sense of community. This campaign has helped put that on display in a modern and engaging way.”

Chamber General Manager, Stacey Randell said the Chamber saw destination promotion as an important part of supporting local business and shaping the region’s future.

“We didn’t see this as just making a video. We saw it as investing in Penrith’s profile. If we want more visitors, more overnight stays, more spending in our local economy and more pride in where we live, then we need to actively tell our story,” she said.

“Reaching more than 400,000 views shows there is real interest in Penrith, and this is exactly the kind of momentum we need as we head toward the opening of Western Sydney International Airport.”

The Chamber said the project was also made possible through collaboration with local businesses, operators and community stakeholders who featured in the episode and helped amplify the campaign.

“The only disappointment is, that we couldn’t include everyone, The Penrith business eco-system is full of hidden gems and hardworking people, doing really great things,” Randell said.

“This episode is only one chapter of a much bigger story.”

Fox said the success of the campaign should give the community confidence in Penrith’s future.

“We are entering a once-in-a-generation window of opportunity, and it’s important that we show the rest of Sydney, Australia and the world what this region has to offer,” he said.

The Chamber’s Stacey Randell and Richard Fox are interviewed as part of the video.

CARGO INVESTMENT

Air and travel services provider commits to $32 million facility at

EMILY CHATE

Leading global air and travel services provider, dnata, will invest $32 million to establish a dedicated cargo terminal operation at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI).

dnata will operate from a 5,000sqm warehouse facility within WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct, supported by an additional 4,000sqm of surrounding land.

“Our investment in Western Sydney International reflects strong confidence in the region’s long-term economic trajectory and the critical role air freight plays in supporting Australian trade,” Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations – Australia, Burt Sigsworth said.

“By establishing a purpose-built cargo facility from day one, we are strengthening supply chain resilience, supporting local industry and creating skilled employment opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing economic corridors.”

The airport will deliver the site as a cold shell, with dnata undertaking a full operational fit-out of the terminal, including critical infra-

structure and the installation of a semi-motorised materials handling system.

Approximately $6 million of the investment will be allocated to specialised equipment and technology to ensure scalable, efficient and future-ready cargo operations,

including capabilities to support specialised cargo such as pharmaceuticals and other time and temperature sensitive shipments.

The new operation is projected to create approximately 50 direct roles in its initial phase, with further employment opportunities antici-

pated as operations expand.

In addition to direct jobs, the facility will generate broader economic benefits across freight forwarding, logistics, ground handling and associated supply chain in western Sydney.

CEO of WSI Simon Hickey

new airport

welcomed dnata to the WSI Cargo Precinct, saying it will provide a “top tier” service to the airport.

“We’re thrilled to welcome dnata Cargo to WSI’s brand-new cargo hub, bringing its top tier services for airlines and their customers and creating more meaningful job opportunities for workers across Greater Sydney,” he said.

“Our purpose-built 24-hour Cargo Precinct will increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity and provide dedicated access via the upgraded Northern Road with close proximity to growing freight and logistics centres at Kemps Creek and the Aerotropolis.”

The announcement builds on dnata’s earlier commitment, through its Catering & Retail division, to invest in developing an advanced inflight catering centre within WSI’s Cargo Precinct. The new facility will be capable of producing up to three million meals annually, supporting airline partners operating at Sydney’s first 24-hour airport.

Freight operations are scheduled to commence in July 2026, ahead of the airport’s full passenger opening later this year.

Keith Filander (Director Cargo Operations dnata (Australia) and Steve Woodlands (WSI GM, Air Cargo).

Now is the time to get the flu shot

With flu season approaching and the development of a new influenza subvariant emerging, health experts say now is the best time to get vaccinated before infection rates begin to rise.

Pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart Penrith Compounding Amrit Kaur told the Weekender that the vaccination is vital.

“Influenza is often underestimated. People don’t realise that it’s a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe illness and hospitalisations,” said Kaur.

“Vaccinations are the most effective way to reduce the risk of transmission, and if you look at it from a public health perspective, having widespread vaccination in

the community reduces the risk of transmission and helps protect people who are vulnerable.”

According to the expert, vaccinations are crucial this year to combat the new ‘Super-K’ subvariant of influenza.

“The main difference between the ‘Super-K’ variant and the regular virus is that it spreads much quicker,” Kaur explained.

“The flu vaccine is reviewed and updated annually based on global surveillance data. The vaccine helps the immune system to develop antibodies against the specific strain of the virus that is circulating at the time.

“In the event that someone does come into contact with the virus, they might not even get the flu, and if they do contract the flu, they are far less likely to experience a

prolonged and severe infection.”

With winter right on our doorsteps, Kaur encourages Penrith residents to get their vaccination as soon as possible.

“I recommend getting your flu shot between April and May as it takes about two weeks for your body to develop full immunity,” she said.

The pharmacist also suggests getting the jab is a worthwhile investment for groups that are susceptible to influenza.

“It’s important to understand that the flu can range from a mild repository illness to a severe disease that can cause complications like pneumonia... or in worst-case scenarios, even death,” Kaur stated.

“There are several groups that are more vulnerable to the flu, including the elderly, pregnant women, children and those who are

Helping Australians Regain Mobility & Independence

immunocompromised. Vaccines for vulnerable groups are provided for free under the National Immunisation Program. It’s a good idea to talk to your provider and see if you’re eligible.”

The good news is that Penrith residents are on top of their flu shots this year, with Kaur noting an exceptionally strong uptake of vaccinations already.

“Pharmacies have become an increasingly accessible vaccination

point. We do a lot of bookings and walk-ins for families and the elderly,” Kaur noted.

“It’s very encouraging to see an increase in our numbers because it tells me that people are becoming more proactive about their health and recognising the importance of getting seasonal flu vaccinations.

“For those who haven’t received their vaccination yet, I would definitely advise them to just come in and get it done.”

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Still not right result

The recent announcement by Prue Car standing in front of the new high school, promoting a so-called “temporary bypass” from the bridge to Infantry Street, is not a solution — it is a carefully staged distraction (Making a connection, Weekender April 23).

Let’s be clear: the actual Jordan Springs–Ropes Crossing connector road, promised over seven years ago, remains incomplete. Instead of delivering the infrastructure residents were guaranteed, we are now being offered a narrow backstreet diversion through Infantry Street – a road wholly unsuited to the volume and type of traffic it will now be forced to carry. This “bypass” will funnel frustrated drivers through suburban streets, increasing the risk to local families, pedestrians, and students walking to and from the very school this announcement was meant to celebrate. This is not forward planning. It is reactive damage control. What makes this even more concerning is the contradiction at the heart of the decision. We are told the connector road is continually delayed due to subsidence issues – yet a longer temporary road is now being constructed through the same affected corridor. If the land can support a bypass, why can’t it support the completion of the actual road that was promised? Residents deserve an honest answer to a very simple question: what exactly is beneath that soil? This temporary measure does more than inconvenience residents – it creates a dangerous precedent. By opening a “good enough” link, it removes urgency and accountability from completing the real connector road. It gives Lendlease

and relevant authorities breathing room to delay – again – while claiming progress. Residents of Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing have waited long enough. They have endured congestion, isolation, and broken promises. They are now being asked to accept a substandard, potentially unsafe workaround as if it were a milestone worth celebrating. It isn’t. The community does not need another announcement. It needs the road that was promised – built properly, delivered transparently, and completed without further delay.

JEFF PEGG,

JORDAN SPRINGS

Call for big CBD change

What is the benefit? (Green light for CBD parking, Weekender April 30). High Street has little to offer. About time Council started thinking of long term solutions for the growth of central Penrith. The elephant in town… Penrith Showground and Paceway. It needs to be moved and not lost. Castlereagh flood plains was supposed to return to the community after mining. It cannot have housing as it is flood plains. Insurance a huge liability. The land is perfect for a Showground and Paceway. Enough room for a golf course. Is there any council members that look into the future and place infrastructure into places where they fit? The car park could be part of a retail/residential high rise with the developers supplying a car park as part of the development right. Council should talk to Panthers and find out how they have developed their site with next to no cost to the club.

AYE MARSHY, VIA FACEBOOK

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

TAILA WARD

Pharmacist Amrit Kaur. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Penrith local wins community award

Penrith local Vivienne Ross has been recognised with an Honourable Mention in the Parkinson’s Community Spirit Award for her dedication to the Nepean Blue Mountains Parkinson’s Support Group.

The award was announced as part of the inaugural Brian Sherman Memorial Awards program. A ceremony was held on Tuesday to celebrate the winners.

The Awards program was created by the Sherman family with the assistance of Parkinson’s NSW in honour of the late Brian Sherman who had a distinguished career in business, animal advocacy and philanthropy in addition to being a Parkinson’s advocate.

“Vivienne was a long-time carer for her late husband who lived with Parkinson’s disease,” said Mary Kay Walker, CEO of Parkinson’s NSW.

“She has also distinguished herself as leader of the Nepean Blue Mountains Support Group and is well known in the local community as a reliable source of information on Parkinson’s for people living with the disease, their care partners and families.“

The Brian Sherman Memorial Awards attracted 30 nominations from across the state in two categories – Advocate of the Year Award and Community Spirit Award.

A Winner and Honourable Mention were selected in each category, making a total of four awards in all.

WITHOUT A HOME

Unwanted: Versace is desperate for a family to

ALLY HALL

AStaffy-cross from Luddenham named Versace has been waiting almost 1,800 days to find his forever home, and he’s not alone.

Thousands of pets across Australia are waiting to connect with their perfect families, and with National Adopt a Shelter Day on April 30, locals are being reminded to consider adoption.

“Versace is a very handsome, cuddly boy. Unfortunately, he has been overlooked for quite some time for whatever reason, but he is a big cuddle bug,” said SavourLife Pet Adoptions assistant brand and rescue manager Jesse Reinhard.

“He could lay in your arms on your chest all day, and when he’s not cuddling, he’s in the sun. He’s a pretty relaxed guy, so it’s hard to figure out why he hasn’t been adopted yet.”

Unfortunately, there are some stigmas around shelter dogs that are hard to shake.

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that shelter dogs have

adopt him

behavioural issues,” Reinhard explained.

“Many animals are surrendered due to a change in circumstances of the owner, not because of their own behaviour. That means that perfectly healthy, well-adjusted pets are simply waiting for a second chance.”

Another hesitation is commitment.

“One big drawback for people is that they work full-time, or they’re not home all day, but lots of animals adapt well to different living situations,” Reinhard stated.

“On the SavourLife pet adoption platform, there are filters you can use to narrow your search down and find the right dog. I could imagine Versace living in an apartment. He would love being on the fifth floor laying in the sun. He is a dog that could suit that living situation with the right family.”

There are more than 4,000 dogs and cats waiting to be adopted on the SavourLife Pet Adoption website alone.

Find your perfect pet at www. savour-life.com.au.

Versace. Photo: SavourLife Pet Adoptions.

Feedback wanted for Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan

People with disability, family, friends, carers and service providers are invited to review Penrith City Council’s draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) for 2026-2030.

The DIAP is a four-year plan driven by community feedback that guides Council to make Penrith more inclusive and accessible.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney encouraged residents to leave their feedback on the draft plan.

“Each day, people with disability can experience barriers that prevent them from leading meaningful, independent lives,” Carney said.

“We’ve incorporated the feedback we received late last year into drafting the plan and now we want to ask the community to review the draft.

“Council uses the DIAP to advocate to other levels of government, businesses and organisations. We’ve made great strides in creating a more accessible and inclusive City thanks to the input from our community.”

During the next four years, Council will continue to

work with partners to make improvements addressing physical, attitudinal, communication and social barriers for people with visible and invisible disability, their families, friends and carers.

The draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan is open for feedback until Wednesday, May 20.

First Nations community members are invited to a targeted focus group session on Tuesday, May 12 from 10.30am to 12pm to share

their insights and experiences. RSVP by Friday, May 8 via www.yoursaypenrith. com.au/disabilityinclusionactionplan.

Complete the survey at www.yoursaypenrith.com. au/disabilityinclusionactionplan.

Contact Josephine Dambudzo on 4732 7777 or council@penrith.city to discuss a range of options for providing feedback over the phone, using a free interpreter, voice relay, TTY or SMS relay.

New platform to help protect businesses and employees

Mental health protections for workers and businesses have become increasingly more important after mental injury claims reached a whopping $1 billion in the last financial year, but a new platform has just launched to mitigate mental health risk in the workplace.

The approach to workplace mental health has entered a new chapter with Work, Health and Safety regulators no longer limiting their role to guidance and education, officers are now conducting workplace inspections and issuing fines where they deem employers to have failed in adequately identifying and managing psychosocial hazards.

As organisations look to get on top of these changes, GraceX has officially launched its psychosocial safety platform, which acts as an early detection and prevention system of psychological injury and psychosocial claims.

The platform is designed to close the gap between intent and demonstrable action.

The platform enables organsiations to systematically identify psychosocial hazards through regular review cycles, understanding where risk is concentrated, and follow clear, guided pathways to intervention, creating a documented record of how risk is being identified, assessed and addressed.

CEO of GraceX Roland Illyes said their new platform helps businesses protect themselves and their employees.

“Employers who have been meaning to get to this, who know it matters but haven’t yet built the infrastructure to act on it, are

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

running out of runway,” he said. According to the latest Psychological Injury in Australian Workplaces data, mental injury compensation claims hit $1 billion in annual costs in 2024-25, a threshold that had not been projected until 2030.

National claim statistics (2023-24) show psychological injuries now result in nearly five times longer absence from work, with a 161 per cent increase over the past decade and a 14.7 per cent rise from the previous year alone.

Have your say on the Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-30

Penrith City Council has a long and proud history as a leader of accessibility in local government.

Since 1992 our Access Committee, made up of councillors and community representatives, has embedded lived and professional experience of disability in decision-making and influenced meaningful change in Penrith. The committee has led service improvements, infrastructure upgrades, enhanced public safety, transport connections, and more inclusive programs.

Council is ready to continue to ensure that everyone in our growing City can fully participate in community life. I am pleased to share the Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-30 is now on public exhibition.

This plan builds on our achievements so far and sets out how Council will provide more opportunities and support for people with disability in Penrith, through our day-to-day business operations, collaboration and continued advocacy.

Last year, Council invited the community to help us shape a more accessible and inclusive Penrith for the future as we developed this plan – and the response online and in person was immense.

We heard from people with disability, their families, carers and service providers. Thank you for your valuable input which enables Council’s actions to respond meaningfully to the needs and aspirations of people with disability.

Some of the positive, tangible outcomes from our last Disability Inclusion Action Plan, prepared in line with our 2025-29 Delivery Program, include a specialist toy library service in our Penrith City Libraries for children with disability and special needs, the multi-award-winning Gipps Street Recreation Precinct that offers inclusive play and pathways, and six new Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)-compliant bus shelters.

And of course, we delivered our award-winning One Community, Many Abilities social media campaign that reached more than 1.5 million people. It highlighted the stories of five inspiring residents with visible and invisible disabilities to show their diverse experiences, talents and contributions to our community.

I encourage you to read Council’s new four-year plan and share your thoughts before it’s finalised. You can provide feedback until May 20 at yoursaypenrith.com. au/disabilityinclusionactionplan.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Julian participated in the One Community, Many Abilities campaign.

GraceX CEO Roland Illyes.

EMILY CHATE

First book set to inspire more work from local grandfather

ALLY HALL

A10-month-old Cambridge Park girl is now the star of a children’s book written by her grandfather, David McClenahan.

The proud grandpa wrote Tessa and Pa on a Colourful Quest for Peace: The First Brushstroke where they are each main characters on a grand quest.

“I was inspired by her, and I wanted to do something nice and memorable for her,” McClenahan said.

“I was also inspired by my grandfather who was a great storyteller; he always told his grandkids wonderful stories.”

McClenahan’s storytelling was also influenced by his job as a karate teacher at Kyoukei Goju Ryu Karate.

“The characters are two samurais going on adventures and meeting all these characters while getting into all kinds of trouble,” he said.

It was important to the author that the magical mission was entertaining for adults too.

“I have four kids myself, and at night when I would

David and Tessa reading their book.

read them stories, it was sometimes a bit of a punish. So, with an exciting story that kids can read, and parents can enjoy as well, it makes the whole bedtime routine a lot more enjoyable,” he said.

Since sharing his book with family and friends, McClenahan decided to expand his reach.

“The original plan was to do one book for the family, but I got such good feedback from everyone that read it, so I printed a couple of hundred books and I’ve been giving

David and Tessa in Tessa and Pa on a Colourful Quest for Peace

them to friends, family and selling them online,” McClenahan explained.

“I’ve only got about 80 copies left because there has been a really positive response. Now I’m thinking about getting a bit more serious about writing and releasing a few more books.”

The author told the Weekender the second book should be coming out in a couple of months. To make an enquiry, email kaizenlibrum@gmail.com.

Helping local families with rising cost-of-living pressure

Alocal childcare centre is extending their care for children and families beyond the facility with their new Family Pantry program.

Centre Director at Little Zak’s Academy in Cambridge Park Emma Simons explained the pantry shelves are stocked by parents and staff to help families with cost-of-living pressures.

“People can bring things in, or if they are facing tough times, they can take things out,” Simons said.

“We have a range of different food, toys, nappies, and even things like garbage bags. We have a variety of items that all families can utilise.”

Pantry staples like pasta and baby food have been popular.

“We need more packet foods,” Simons noted.

“We always have tinned food like tuna and baked beans – which go quite fast. We’ve also had tins of formula that go fast as well.”

There are 30 Little Zak’s Academy centres participating in this initiative to lessen

grocery bill strain, and Easter was a heartwarming time at the Cambridge Park location.

“People donated Easter bunny stuffed toys,” Simons stated.

“It was really good to see not just food or household items on the shelf, but also something the children could take home if they didn’t have much for Easter.”

If you would like to donate to the Family Pantry, visit 181/183 Victoria Street, Cambridge Park.

Is it cake? Local mum serves up unique idea

Alocal mum-of-four is taking edible art to the next level with her home-based business Baked Flores Box.

Saniya Farrukh bakes cupcakes and hand-pipes them to look like real flowers.

“They are edible bouquets and I focus on making them look elegant and detailed – especially for occasions like birthdays and Mother’s Day,” Farrukh explained.

“Every flower I pipe has a meaning

behind it; it’s not just a decoration, it’s storytelling. That’s what makes it so special to me, and it makes me so happy creating them.”

The self-taught artist started this hobby-turned-business as a form of stress-relief when she was pregnant.

“Now as a mum navigating postpartum life, I needed something that was mine – something creative and calming. Piping flowers is therapy for me,” she said.

“I pipe flowers at night when the kids are asleep, when they are at daycare, and in the early morning.”

One day, she hopes to create a calm, creative space for everyone to enjoy.

“I hope to grow my business steadily and reach more people in the community. I would love for my cupcakes to become a go-to for local gifting and special occasions,” she described her short-term goal.

“In the future, I would like to open a small café where I can serve my floral cupcakes along with coffee and cakes. It would be a cosy space where people can come in, enjoy something beautiful, and feel a little bit of joy.”

Place an order and look at the edible bouquets online at www. bakedfloresbox.com.au.

Emma Simons with donated items. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

Saniya Farrukh in her kitchen. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Some of Saniya’s creations.

ALLY HALL

Δ Ready for more: Cadbury has launched Cadbury &MORE, its most significant brand debut in more than a decade, designed for chocolate lovers who are seeking more moments of heightened indulgence. Cadbury &MORE invites consumers into a sensory-rich experience defined by indulgent textures, new ingredients and foodie-approved flavours, wrapped in signature Cadbury chocolate and rich layered profiles. Each block delivers a unique sensory experience with bigger chocolate pieces that allow more generous fillings, flowing centres and satisfyingly crunchy inclusions. The elevated range launches with five distinctive new flavours, each designed to heighten the senses and delight the palate. They include Hazelnut, Tiramisu Swirl, Caramel Crème Brûlée, Roasted Macadamia and Raspberry Cheesecake.

Δ That’s gold: Everyone’s favourite bubbly chocolate, Aero, has launched a new Caramel Gold flavour. We’ve spotted the new blocks in Woolworths and Coles in recent weeks.

Δ Cake of dreams: Domino’s has added a new dessert to its menu with the Pistachio

Papi Lava Cake, now available from $6.99 on pick-up. It’s a limited-time item that taps into the growing popularity of pistachio-based desserts, offering a different take on the classic lava cake. The dessert features a soft baked cake with a molten pistachio centre, designed to deliver a warm, rich texture with a nutty flavour.

Δ Long-running business closes: Long-running automotive business Sydney Suspension & Autocare has announced it has closed its doors. Located on Coreen Avenue, the repair business has a long history in Penrith. “This has been an incredibly difficult time all of us but unfortunately, we were no longer able to continue with the running costs of the business,” a statement posted to the business’ Facebook page said.

Δ Rum delight: Captain Morgan lovers will be delighted to hear that a new pre-mix option has landed. Captain Morgan Pina

Colada is now out in bottle shops and online. Hopefully we’ll see more options emerging in this space – there’s a lot of Captain Morgan pre-mixed can varieties available in the US.

Δ Coming soon: We hear a beauty salon, pilates studio and cafe is on the way to the main strip of shops along the Great Western Highway at Emu Plains.

Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about store openings, closings, new businesses in Penrith, menu refreshes and more! Email contributions to news@westernweekender. com.au.

The floods of August 1986 were significant across the local area.

This photo shows flooding along

Mamre Road. St Marys Quarry and the Readymix sign are visible. In the August 1986 floods, 206

millimetres of rain fell across Sydney in just 10 hours, causing widespread inundation throughout the metro-

politan area. Penrith was not spared from the downfall.

(Photo thanks to Penrith Library)

Relaxation on a premium scale at City Cave in Penrith

Tucked just off Mulgoa Road, City Cave Penrith offers a calm escape designed for rest, recovery and reset. After a demanding work week, I spent a few hours there to unwind, clear my head and ease into the weekend, and it delivered on every front.

From the moment I arrived, the welcoming staff set the tone with a thoughtful introduction to the space. Every room is intentionally designed to feel warm and tranquil, creating a sense of comfort throughout. I began with a cup of herbal tea in the softly lit waiting area, where gentle music and a short introductory video helped me understand the services ahead, which is an especially helpful touch for first-time visitors like me.

My experience started with an infrared sauna session. Unlike traditional saunas, this uses lightbased heat to warm the body from

more deeply. Research shows that it supports circulation, reduces inflammation, and promotes overall relaxation. Beyond the health benefits, it’s also a rare opportunity to disconnect. You can personalise the session by adjusting the temperature or connecting your own music via Bluetooth. I opted to bring a book and enjoy the quiet. Small details like chilled water and cold towels made the experience even more comfortable.

Next was the float therapy session, which was unlike anything I’ve tried before. The open float pool is filled with 400kgs of Epsom salt, creating a buoyant, weightless sensation that removes pressure from the body. With the water heated to skin temperature and minimal light and sound, it becomes a deeply immersive, almost meditative experience. It’s an effective way to completely switch off and let the nervous system reset. As someone who

struggles at times to disconnect, this experience took all the choice out of it and forced me to clear my mind. I will definitely be doing this again!

The final treatment, a massage, was the perfect way to finish off the visit. The therapist was skilled and attentive, ensuring I felt at ease throughout. Combined with the calming music, it brought the whole experience together seamlessly.

Afterwards, I returned to the lounge for another cup of herbal tea and made use of the well-equipped refreshment area, complete with premium amenities including a Dyson hairdryer before heading back out into the world feeling refreshed and recharged.

With Mother’s Day approaching, City Cave Penrith makes a thoughtful and rejuvenating gift or simply a worthwhile investment in your own wellbeing.

– Emily Chate

Trade chaos for calm at City Cave Penrith — Penrith’s goto for floating, infrared saunas and massages t hat tell your stress to politely leave. Think warm magnesium pools, deep exhale energy and just enough luxur y to feel smug about your self-care. Science-led, seriously relaxing, and dangerously easy to get used to.

THE POWER OF SAYING NO BUSINESS MATTERS

Momentum is flowing, let’s carve your niche…

Business owners fill many roles; we’re so used to just getting it all done that we often take on too much ‘It’s just easier if I do it myself’. By constantly jumping in with the solution, you create a learnt helplessness, with team mates and customers.

Yes, teaching takes longer the first time, but that investment pays off in the long run.

By now, you’ve been in business for a while, you’ve built a reputation, some social capital, and with that comes others wanting to ‘pick your brain, just a quick coffee’. I’m a big believer in paying it forward, however your time is an asset not an obligation, be intentional around where you invest it. No is an acceptable

response and does not need to be justified, for those of you still building your ‘no’ muscle here are a few softer versions for you to practice.

“I would love to help, unfortunately I’m on a crazy deadline.”

“I’m afraid I just can’t fit that in right now, I’ll send you some resources I found helpful.”

“I’m so stretched right now, I just wouldn’t do it justice.”

“I’m sure it will be a lovely event and please do invite me to the next one.”

Saying no to the wrong opportunities leaves space to say yes to the right ones.

If you are finding you get the same questions

regularly, that might be an opportunity. Can you present at a business event, educate on social media, write a blog post. There’s plenty of opportunities to share your knowledge at the Penrith Chamber.

That people pleaser is strong in you. What can you trade your knowledge for?

Yeah sure, I’d be happy to help you out, I just ask that you give me a Google review and share a social media post for me.

The Penrith Valley Chamber — where good business meets great people. We connect, support and celebrate the businesses driving Penrith’s growth, shaping a thriving, future-focused economy for the west. Business is Community. Don’t do Business Alone — Come Join Us!

ASHLEA GRIMLEY

Cambridge Park High School Canteen Licence

Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen commencing on 20 July 2026 for a term of 3 years with an option to renew for an additional 2 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 650 students.

General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to: Jacqueline Beaumont

School Administration Manager 02 4731 6722 or cambridge-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders must be sent electronically and noted in the subject line “Commercial in Con dence - School Canteen Tender” and sent to:

Attention The Principal jacqui.beaumont@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders close at 3pm on 8 May 2026

Mandator y Criteria: All employees must hold a current working with children check.

Our Trades or classifieds section is the most comprehensive weekly guide available in the Penrith and St Marys regions.

Perpetual Conveyancing provides a comprehensive ser vice to clients ranging from first home buyers to investors. We are looking for an experienced Conveyancer to join our team on a part time basis with the possibility of increasing to a full time position.

ABOUT US: ABOUT YOU:

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience preparing and reviewing legal documents while facilitating communication between all stakeholders.

• Be experienced with Microsoft, TriSearch, Adobe and PEXA.

• Prioritise work with a high attention to detail in a fast paced office.

If this sounds like you, please email your resume to david@perpetualconveyancing.com.au

We look forward to hearing from you.

Five things to do on Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day in Penrith is a great chance to mix food, relaxation and local experiences.

Here are five solid options for Sunday, May 10.

Mother’s Day lunch by the water

Treat Mum to a relaxed lunch at Lakeside Restaurant overlooking the Sydney International Regatta Centre. It’s one of the better scenic dining spots in the district and ideal if you want something a little more special. Book early, as Mother’s Day fills fast. Call 4739 3222.

A cafe favourite

Start the day with coffee and brunch at Percy Plunkett, a popular local choice known for casual breakfasts and café vibes. Great for families wanting a lower-key but enjoyable start before doing something else.

Walk the Great River

Walk

If Mum prefers fresh air over crowds, take a scenic stroll along the Great River Walk. The path follows the Nepean River and gives you plenty of spots to stop, chat and enjoy the views. A good free option that still feels like quality time.

High Tea at Astina Celebrate Mother’s Day

in style at the Gweneth Elizabeth Room at Astina Suites. Gather the women in your life for an experience of indulgence – think tiered high tea, drinks, live entertainment and a gift for every Mum. Three sittings available, each lasting 1.5 hours.

Something fun and different

If your mum likes experiences, book a session at iFLY Downunder for indoor skydiving, or try Narrow Escape Rooms if she enjoys puzzles and laughs. Great for Mums who’d rather do something memorable than sit at a table all day.

DON’T FORGET MUM

What your Mum really wants!

Anational survey of 2,000 Australians has found that 83 per cent of Mums say their mental load is completely underestimated, even on Mother’s Day.

And despite good intentions, nearly eight in 10 Mums (79 per cent) still take on some level of planning or coordination surrounding their special day.

Instead of resting on Mother’s Day, the irony is many Mums are still thinking about where and what the family is eating, what groceries are needed, and how the day will run.

When asked what they actually want on Mother’s Day, Mums were clear and consistent.

It is not about big gifts or expensive gestures. It’s about not having to think and seeing some effort.

In fact, taking care of the bare minimum ranked far higher than traditional gifts, with 91 per cent of Mums saying even small gestures, like a takeaway coffee delivered, would make their day. 80 per cent of the surveyed Mums also said the best gift would simply be their family

taking care of everything for the day, whilst 28 per cent valued having meals organised, 24 per cent valued quality time, and 22 per cent valued not having to plan anything as the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

Indy Clinton, Australian personality, mum-of-three and DoorDash’s 2026 Mother’s Day Ambassador, said it is the mental juggling that really takes the joy out of the day.

“We don’t expect much. Forget the bells and whistles and just take control of the day. It can be last-minute. I just want one day where I’m not the boss and can enjoy a dinner I didn’t have to cook, have a pantry I didn’t have to fill, or a dinner reservation I didn’t book myself,” she said.

On the DoorDash app, Mother’s Day same-day ordering is most common for flowers and meals, but the new Reservations feature is also expected to be a popular tool on Mother’s Day, with fathers (21 per cent) and adult children (22 per cent) admitting they’re likely to book restaurants last minute.

Our Mother's Day High Tea returns for another year Join us for an afternoon of pure indulgence in the Gweneth E

Three tiers of beautiful food, bottomless barista-made coffe mum, live entertainment and a photo moment worth framin

9:00am Breakfast menu |

lizabeth Room

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WIN GREAT PRIZES FOR MOTHER’S DAY

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Spoil Mum at Saints Leagues!

St Marys Rugby League Club is celebrating all Mums loud and proud in the lead-up to Mother’s Day!

On May 3, the club is offering an amazing opportunity to spoil Mum with the Celebrate Mum Mega Luxe Raffle – featuring over $15,000 in prizes to be won, plus more than 100 incredible prizes up for grabs –giving you the opportunity to win perfect presents for Mum this Mother’s Day without having to do the shopping yourself!

There is an incredible range of gifts to be won, including handbags,

perfume, electronics, hair tools, gift cards, jewellery, and so much more!

On top of that, there will be three major prizes! The third last number will take home a $500 Visa Gift Card, the second last number will win a Dyson Airwrap, and the last number will score a Dreame L30 Robot Vacuum and Mop valued at a huge $1,499.

The St Marys Rugby League Club team know things are tough for many people right now and are focused on ensuring it’s easier for everyone to still get involved in Mother’s Day celebrations. For as

little as $1 you can be in the running to be one of the lucky winners taking home a luxury gift. Head down to Saints and snap a picture with your loved one at their beautiful flower wall –the perfect backdrop to capture a special Mother’s Day moment. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring the family together and celebrate Mum with the Mother’s Day Dining options at Signatures Buffet and Waterstone Grill.

Head to www.stmarysleagues.com.au to find out more and book your

SPOIL MUM LOCALL Y

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Ella Bache provides individualised facial treatments designed for a true moment of calm, relaxation and self-care.

440C High St, Penrith 4731 2470

SA Y ‘I LOVE YOU’ WITH FOOD

Indulge her sweet tooth by surprising her with Mot her ’s Day cupcakes from Mrs C’s Cupcakes

2/6 Cast lereagh St, Penrith, 0434 111 769

Treat Mum to an elegant Italian dinner at Tins & Wood

3/12 Tindale St, Penrith, 4731 1982

DON’T FORGET MUM

Local MP’s Mother’s Day message

Amessage from Lindsay MP

Melissa McIntosh:

Mother’s Day is one of those special moments in the year when we pause and celebrate the women who do so much for all of us, often without asking for anything in return. As the Member for Lindsay, and in my role as Shadow Minister for Women, Social Services and Families, I am constantly reminded just how lucky we are to have such strong, caring and dedicated mums at the heart of our community.

Being a Mum isn’t always easy, but it is always extraordinary. It’s in the school drop-offs and latenight check-ins, the endless to-do lists, the comforting words, and the fierce protection of those they love. It’s also in the laughter, the milestones, and the quiet pride in watching children grow. Mums are also expert multitaskers, part-time referees, full-time chauffeurs, snack providers, life coaches and miracle workers (especially when something’s lost five minutes before leaving the house!). Somehow, they make it all look effortless, even when it’s anything but. There is no single way to be a Mum, and every journey is unique, but what unites them all is love.

Across western Sydney, I meet

Mums from all walks of life – working Mums, stay-at-home Mums, single Mums, grandmothers, and carers – each with their own story, each playing an invaluable role in

shaping our families and our future. Many are juggling more than ever, balancing work, households, and caring responsibilities with incredible determination. They are the

glue that keeps families together and communities strong.

Mother’s Day is also a gentle reminder to take a little time for yourself. We know how important

it is for Mums to look after their own wellbeing too – physically, mentally and emotionally. Healthy, active living doesn’t have to mean big changes. It can be as simple as a walk with a friend, a trip to the park with the kids, or getting outdoors and enjoying the beautiful green spaces we’re so lucky to have here in our region.

That’s why I’d love to see more opportunities for our community to come together in fun and active ways. One idea I’m really excited about is a “Penrith City to Lakes” community event – bringing families, friends and neighbours together to walk, run or ride, all while enjoying our local environment. It would be a wonderful way to celebrate connection, support healthy lifestyles, and create lasting memories, something Mums so often help make possible.

This Mother’s Day, whether it’s breakfast in bed, a handmade card, or simply spending time together, it’s the thought and love that matters most.

To all the Mums and mother figures across Lindsay, thank you. For your patience, your strength, your kindness and your endless love. Mother’s Day is for you, and it is so very well deserved.

Dylan Edwards.

Photo: NRL Photos.

THE FINAL WORD

There was a rhythm about Penrith’s win over Newcastle last week that just felt right.

It was the kind of performance you want eight rounds in, with a shot at holding the Telstra Premiership trophy aloft in October very real.

Nothing overly flashy, but dominant enough that you never really felt Newcastle were a chance. The Panthers controlled virtually every aspect of the game, and the right players stood up at the right time.

Penrith have now completed a third of their regular season games and sit on top of the table. With three byes ahead and arguably some of their toughest matches behind them, the side is well positioned.

Even better, Ivan Cleary will have the luxury of managing the State of Origin period his

way. The task during that period is actually not as problematic as it has been in some years recently, and no matter what the outside noise may be, I have no doubt Cleary will ensure Penrith are ready for the back part of the season – even if it means making a few sacrifices in that middle section of the year.

The Panthers return to CommBank Stadium in an unusual Sunday night timeslot for the first time since they thumped Melbourne in their best performance of the season.

Manly come in to this match on the back of four straight wins, with Kieran Foran pondering why everyone made this coaching caper sound so difficult. It was all highlighted by a special win at his beloved Brookvale Oval last weekend.

But it’ll all come crashing down eventually and I’m confident the dream run of Fozball will come to a conclusion on Sunday night.

As much as Manly seem much more free in their attack and certainly comfortable with

each other across the park, Penrith are far too clinical here and I doubt will give Manly the early opportunities they’ve been given over the past month.

In the three games before the Eels on Sunday, Manly built up big leads that were largely unassailable. That’s not to say they didn’t deserve those victories but they speak of a side that has plenty to offer in the opening 20 minutes and when you pile on enough points, the opposition is left floundering in response.

Meantime, the Eels fell away meekly on Sunday and the Sea Eagles again had an easy run for a bulk of the game.

I can’t see a world in which Manly come out and put 12 or 18 points on the Panthers before they wake up. Indeed, I have no doubt Penrith would have spoken about Manly’s fast starts and will be looking to slow things down in this one and set the tempo of the contest.

In three of the past four games Manly has scored their first try within the opening six

minutes – allowing them to set the agenda. In fact, the Sea Eagles have only conceded the first try once since Round 2.

Penrith will simply outlast Manly if the Sea Eagles are forced to get into the grind. What was pleasing to see against Newcastle was Penrith’s right side being opened up. Paul Alamoti and Brian To’o were among Penrith’s best and when you’ve got both sides of the field firing you create so many chances in attack and so much uncertainty in the opposition.

While some Penrith fans were moaning about the lack of ball to Thomas Jenkins to extend his try-scoring streak, I couldn’t have been happier seeing the ball go right a little more and Nathan Cleary playing both sides of the ruck – and running the football.

Manly will certainly punish the Panthers if they aren’t switched on but I doubt the lessons learned from that defeat to the Bulldogs a few weeks back have been forgotten.

Tip: Panthers by 12.

Could Luai lure old mates to PNG?

desire to re-sign with Penrith before the November 1 deadline, and the prospect of looking elsewhere very real.

From the depths of COVID to accusations of arrogance and unprecedented success, a particular group of Penrith players has well and truly been in the trenches together – facing plenty of battles, but winning the war. Four of them, in fact.

Now, a comrade there through the thick of it all could spark the ultimate reunion.

Jarome Luai’s decision to leave the Wests Tigers at the end of 2027 and join the Papua New Guinea Chiefs is the first domino to fall in an intriguing player contract scenario that could have huge ramifications at Penrith.

While Luai’s specific contract situation with the Tigers meant he could talk to the Chiefs earlier than most players could, November 1 is looming as a date with frantic consequences for a host of off-contract Panthers.

Premiership winners Nathan Cleary, Mitch Kenny, Moses Leota, Liam Martin, Brian To’o and Isaah Yeo are all free to talk to other clubs, including the Chiefs, from that date.

And the prospect of a reunion with Luai looms large.

The players themselves are understandably remaining coy about the situation, but within their answers something is clear: no definite

“I haven’t really looked out that far yet. I’m always just riding the wave and the journey and just playing consistent footy week in and week out and when that time presents itself I’ll sit down with my manager and have a talk with him,” To’o said on Wednesday.

“I’ll sit down with my manager and have a talk with him”

When asked if he thought Luai would call him to potentially talk up a move to the Chiefs, To’o joked: “I don’t even know if he’s still got my number.”

To’o would not confirm whether he’ll test the market on November 1 or push for a fresh contract with

Penrith.

“I’m the kind of person who doesn’t like to look too far ahead,” he said.

“I’m more of a stay present type of person.” He said he was pleased for his good mate in Luai for taking the chance to be the face of the new NRL franchise.

“It’s good to see him not only being financially stable but also having the opportunity to do great things for the club and I know he and his family are really happy with the decision,” To’o said.

Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo was unsure what his future holds beyond the end of next year, but did not rule out listening to potential interest from the Chiefs.

“I’m not sure. There’s a big long list of us off-contract. Myself personally, I’ve got to be open-minded,” he said.

“I can’t tell you what the club wants to do and there’s obviously a lot of dominoes to fall.”

Yeo admitted that his “best case scenario” would be to finish his career at Penrith and be a one-club player.

“At the same time you have to think of your family. I’ve got three young children now and this will probably be my last contract,” he said.

“Certainly one club would be nice, but I’m understanding that I’ve gotten older that rugby league is a business and opportunities are never a bad thing.”

Could Brian To’o be a target of the PNG Chiefs? Photo: NRL Photos.

Panthers captain Isaah Yeo. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Edwards: Blues jersey up for grabs

Well before a ball was kicked this season, Dylan Edwards knew he would be fighting for New South Wales jersey.

“Laurie [Daley] sat the squad down at the start of the year and said whoever is playing the best footy will get the nod in the jersey and that’s pretty important – you want people playing well and people fighting for the jersey,” Edwards said.

“Competition for spots is obviously really important. What will be will be. My focus is here playing well week in and week out.”

Edwards has had a scintillating start to the 2026 season but his main rival in Roosters captain James Tedesco is also playing career-best footy.

“Teddy has been very impressive. He rarely has a bad game,” Edwards said.

“It’s no surprise how he is playing at the moment and how the Roosters are performing.”

Edwards said given the Blues lost the series last year, he did not have a mortgage on the fullback jumper come selection time.

“I don’t think about retaining the jersey. It’s there up for grabs every year,” he said.

While much of the off-field focus in rugby league this week has been about Jarome Luai’s move to the PNG Chiefs, Edwards is focused on Sunday night’s clash with Manly and the mission to end their four match winning streak under new coach Kieran Foran.

Edwards, who scored three tries against Newcastle last week, is zoning in on upsetting the Fozball juggernaut but said he’s happy for his former teammate.

“I think it’s great for the Chiefs and Romey and his family,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity for him, his family and the club.”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said Edwards was having a great season, but understood the talk about Tedesco challenging him for the Blues’ number one jumper.

“I think rightly so for Teddy. He’s been outstanding. You want competition for spots, nobody owns any Origin jersey,” he said.

“It’s a good problem for Laurie and the selectors. It’s not really my business.”

Edwards would not let anyone down.

“Dyl is just everywhere all the time,” Cleary said.

“It’s business as usual for Dyl. He does that week in, week out and has done that for years.”

Nathan Cleary and Dylan Edwards celebrate a try against Newcastle.

Photo: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

Here come the Chiefs!

To’o set for heavy interest: One of the most in demand backs in the competition come November 1 could be Panthers four-time Premiership winner Brian To’o. I’m hearing that To’o is in the sights of several clubs. While no offers or formal discussions can happen prior to November 1, whispers are strong about St George-Illawarra, Parramatta and the PNG Chiefs having a serious crack. There would be some romance attached to To’o joining Jarome Luai at the Chiefs in 2028 given the Wests Tigers captain has now committed to the franchise. To’o will be 29 when his contract is up at Penrith, and his next deal could be the final big-money contract of his career. It’s unlikely Penrith will get as high as offers likely to come from elsewhere.

Chiefs have eye on Panthers: Make no mistake that the Chiefs believe securing the services of Jarome Luai significantly increases their chances of luring more Penrith players over to Papua New Guinea. The club is keen to create a community feel and some of the off-contract Panthers, along with Luai, were key to creating that at Penrith during the Premiership years.

Royce out of retirement: Is Panthers legend Royce Simmons planning to add to his rugby league honours by taking up another sport? I hear Simmons was spotted playing table tennis at The Royce last week. Despite talking up his chances early, he was ultimately defeated by his wife Liane.

Quirky slice of history: For the first time since entering the competition way back in 1967, the Panthers have won nine straight games at an opposition venue. The victory at McDonald Jones Stadium over Newcastle on Sunday confirmed the rather odd piece of history. The run started back in 2016 when the Panthers ran out 42-6 winners over Newcastle at what was then Hunter Stadium. Incredibly, the Panthers have scored over 40 points four times out of the nine straight wins. Penrith have quite the impressive history in Newcastle – they also won their first five games straight there between 1988 and 1992.

Spotted: Former Panthers five-eighth James Maloney enjoying a game of two-up at Panthers last Saturday as part of ANZAC Day.

Spotted: Panthers captain Isaah Yeo and Knights veteran Daine Gaigai swapping jerseys after Sunday’s clash in Newcastle. Gaigai is collecting jerseys from every club in the NRL, and is aiming to get his hands on the jumper of the player he has played against the most in each club. 35-year-old Gaigai is likely to retire

at season’s end, though is yet to make a formal decision.

Giving cancer the boot: The NRL in partnership with national insurer Youi, is taking up the fight against kids’ cancer through a new fundraising initiative to be launched during Magic Round. The two organisations have teamed up with all 17 NRL Clubs and 11 paediatric cancer centres in Australia and New Zealand to launch Kick for a Cause, with the aim of raising $1 million to improve the care, comfort, and outcomes of every child facing cancer across Australia and New Zealand. The centres are located in every community that an NRL club exists. Youi has pledged a $1,000 donation

for every successfully converted try and penalty goal attempt at the highly anticipated three-day festival of rugby league to be held in Brisbane from May 15-17. They have also doubled the pledge for every successful field goal across the round.

Feeling like home: I’m told that Panthers is already working on some excellent concepts next year to make sure the game day experience feels unique and very ‘Penrith’. This may also include the return of a few past initiatives. Panthers knows the new stadium won’t quite feel like the old Penrith Park, but they’re keen to make sure it doesn’t have that bland, plain stadium feel.

Big names for long lunch: Rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns has been secured as the big-name guest for Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Club’s 2026 Sportsmans Luncheon, to be held on July 17 at St Marys Band Club. Premiership winner James Maloney is also on the guest list, with Triple M’s Anthony Maroon to host the afternoon’s festivities. Tickets are $180 with tables of 10 available.

Mum’s the word, sort of: A host of Penrith officials and coaches were called to a meeting last week where a reminder about confidentiality and keeping things ‘in house’ was delivered. Apparently the club is unhappy about a few leaks to the media in recent times.

Liam Henry mystery: Liam Henry’s return to first grade has been further delayed after he apparently picked up a minor hamstring injury. Henry is yet to play in the NRL this season, but was making his comeback through the NSW Cup before the latest setback. What’s interesting is that his omission from the team sheet each week is essentially a mystery. The club remains very tight-lipped when it comes to injuries these days.

Panthers podcast: Don’t forget the Weekender’s ‘Tension’s Running High’ podcast, released weekly on Wednesdays. Troy Dodds and Nathan Taylor share their opinions on everything Penrith Panthers and rugby league, and usually stray off-topic with some highly entertaining banter. Head to www.westernweekender.com.au/podcast or search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts.

Spotted: Panthers recruitment guru Jim Jones continues to cut laps around Jamison Park every morning.

Spill the tea: Spotted a Panther out and about? Got some news? Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

Spotted: This enthusiastic fan (right) in Newcastle last week very proud of his Nathan Cleary sign. Well done young fella!

Brian To’o.

PANTHERS POSTER

Will the Chiefs raid Panthers?

One thing is certain in the soap opera that is rugby league and that is that anything can happen.

The fact that Jarome Luai has become the Papau New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs’ first marquee signing is something I never thought was possible.

It’s an amazing move by a new franchise which doesn’t even play its first NRL game until 2028.

The Chiefs’ audacious bid to even go after him in the first place shows that the NRL’s newest franchise means business.

To that end, you have to realistically consider the possibility that the Chiefs’ General Manager of Football Michael Chammas could also have a number of Panthers players in his sights as well.

With 10 Penrith players all coming off contract at the end of 2027, let’s look at which players are a realistic chance of being approached to sign with the Chiefs.

The most obvious one would be Nathan ‘Clez’ Cleary. By all reports Cleary enjoys a positive relationship with Chammas, which was cultivated when Chammas was a journalist and would cover Penrith Panthers stories.

Truth be told, Chammas has positive relationships with a number of Penrith players and he could and probably will use that goodwill to try and sign not only Nathan Cleary.

It’s a long shot that ‘Clez’ would leave the Panthers and now that Luai has signed, I doubt they’ll even go after him.

Luai left the foot of the mountains to be the leader of his own team, I doubt he would’ve signed if he knew Batman was a possibility of coming as well.

For mine, there are four other Penrith players I

chance for a big pay-day. He’ll be 29 years-old when his contract with the Panthers expires next year and with a wife and family you couldn’t blame him if he took a big fat contract to finish his career in PNG.

A decision which could be made even easier now that his best friend has signed with them too.

This whole ‘tax-free’ incentive is a pretty big carrot and I’m sure it will tempt plenty of players who would normally not look at such a move.

The second player I can see being a target is Mitch Kenny. Kenny has made no secret that while he wants to stay in Penrith, he would also look at any offers that came his way.

Then we have Liam Martin, ‘Marto’ has carefully negotiated his last few contracts and like To’o and Kenny will also be in his early 30s when the Chiefs play their first game in just under two years’ time.

The final player I think may spike PNG’s interest is Paul Alamoti. Alamoti is playing some of the best football of his career and both he and To’o’s availability could come down to whether Thomas Jenkins re-signs with Penrith.

There just won’t be enough money under Penrith’s cap to keep Jenkins, Alamoti, To’o, Casey McLean and Izack Tago.

Now I have to stress something, age is not the only reason why players like To’o, Kenny and Martin may leave.

All three are outstanding players in their own right and still have plenty to offer any team in the Penrith and of course the Papua New Guinea

Jarome Luai. Photo: NRL Photos.

with Peter Lang

Driving Blaize: Footy, family and a bit of golf with Emily Chate

Connection, brotherhood and family are the three things Panthers young gun Blaize Talagi said motivate him through his career.

At 21-years-old Talagi still has his whole career ahead of him but said footy has already given him plenty to be grateful for.

“Footy has taught me about that connection and that brotherhood,”

Talagi told Behind The Game

“Family’s always been a big part of me and being able to be a part of the footy family and the brotherhood I have here is special.”

Talagi’s family, including younger brother Ryda who is signed with the Parramatta Eels, have been his rock through his rise to first grade.

“I’d say my partner, she’s helped me in so many ways on the mental side of things,” he said.

“Then I would also say my family – all my aunties, cousins, my mum and dad, my brother, and my sister as well, the whole family!

“They try to come to every game, mostly home games but there’s so many they would probably fill out the whole stadium!”

Like most fans, Talagi can be found watching footy on the weekend but claims a lot of the younger players don’t.

“Not every game, I feel like I watch the majority though,” Talagi explained.

“I know all the young boys don’t really watch footy, but I feel like I watch quite a bit.

“I wouldn’t say I’m a footy nerd; I feel like my brother is though.”

Talagi is in his second year at the Panthers and is an avid golfer – like many of the Panthers – and is trying to make his way to the top.

“I’ve got a few hobbies. I play a bit of golf; a few boys are into that,” he said.

“I feel like that crew is sort of Nathan, Lindsay and Freddy. I feel like they are sort of the good ones and I’m working my way up. Hopefully one day I’ll be with them!”

Questions

Coffee order: Orange juice (he doesn’t drink coffee)

Cheat meal: Chicken burger combo from his local kebab shop

Favourite movie: ‘Invincible’

Favourite musician: Bad Bunny

Who did you support growing up: Bulldogs

Pet peeve: Messiness

Go to streaming service: YouTube

Blaize Talagi.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

THEY SAID IT...

“It’s a terrible thing. It honestly is a terrible thing. Particularly in the education of young people. It’s a terrible influence. It’s awful.”

Bulldogs boss Phil Gould on social media

“Not decisions for me to make but I’m happy with the way Tom is going for us.”

“It’s crass and unnecessary. There’s kids there and there’s women there. I was brought up to treat women and kids with respect. I wouldn’t do that.”

News Corp’s Dean Ritchie moaning about Wests Tigers crowd behaviour.

“It’s a smart play by Michael Chammas, because [Jarome Luai] is the sort of player the Chiefs are going to need. It’s a bold, smart move.”

Danny Weidler on the Chiefs signing Jarome Luai

“Dyl has always been a very selfless player, a team first guy. Not one that does a lot of flashy stuff but he is always there when we need him. He’s super reliable.”

Cleary on Dylan Edwards

“We weren’t there today, but from a coaching point of view, the boys tried so hard.”

“Moses Leota has got some ball playing in him as well. He was really impressive.”

Darcie McDonald on Moses Leota

“The

game is rigged this way for Penrith every week.

I’ve

turned it off. “

X user @DC72guy, who believes the NRL wants the same team to win all the time despite it making no sense.

Knights coach Justin Holbrook

Nathan

Ivan Cleary on Tom Jenkins and Origin

Tries: D Edwards 3, B To’o 2, N Cleary, F Lussick, I Tago Goals: N Cleary 6/8

Tries: S Fonua 2, H Loza 2, J Vailalo, L Patea, J McLean, L Liddiard Z Clarke 5/8

Tries: H Bell 3, T Sangalang 2, E Birve, H Lemoto, I Cochrane Goals: 5/8

Tries: P Crossland, D Brown Goals: S Smith 2/2

Tries: S Taukamo 3, L Aoake, W De Courcey Goals: M Henderson 3/6

Tries: B Couzens, T Cranwell, W Rosenbaum Goals: J Smith 2/3

NRL LADDER & FIXTURES

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS

BULLDOGS STORM TITANS EELS ROOSTERS KNIGHTS SHARKS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS TITANS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS SHARKS SEA EAGLES

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS TITANS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS RAIDERS EELS BRONCOS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

COWBOYS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

COWBOYS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM TITANS WARRIORS BRONCOS KNIGHTS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS KNIGHTS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS KNIGHTS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS TITANS EELS BRONCOS KNIGHTS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS TITANS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM TITANS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS

WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS EELS ROOSTERS KNIGHTS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

COWBOYS STORM RAIDERS EELS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS SEA EAGLES

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

COWBOYS DOLPHINS TITANS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS BRONCOS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS DOLPHINS RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS

BULLDOGS STORM RAIDERS WARRIORS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS TIGERS PANTHERS

ENTERTAINMENT

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

MUSICAL TREAT FOR MUM

Vocal group The Vallies are joining forces with the Australian Army band to bring the sounds of the ‘60s to Penrith this Mother’s Day.

The Vallies’ lead vocalist Robert Jeffries said this is unlike any collaboration the group has done before.

“This came about because I’m a reservist in the Australian Army Band, and we have great musicians serving this country,” explained Jeffries.

“I had the idea to put together a concert for Mother’s Day with the 23-piece Army Big Band. Normally we tour with anywhere between a four-piece or a six-piece band, but this is the first time that we’re performing with such a huge ensemble of musicians.”

The unexpected joint venture is in the name of charity.

“Profits from the performance will go towards Motor Neurone Disease (MND) NSW,” Jeffries said.

“A few bandmates and I – as well as some people in the Australian Army Band – have been touched by MND. I feel like this charity does get a bit lost, so we’ve chosen to dedicate this performance to them.

“We will have members of the charity there on the day with buckets so people can donate in cash as well as buying a ticket.”

The venue choice for this one-time-only performance is also a way to give back to the community, while also nodding to The Vallies’ origin.

“This is a special performance because Panthers Penrith were the first venue to ever give us a gig almost 10 years ago now.

That first gig was in the function centre with

a backing track,” Jeffries described.

“Now to be performing at the EVAN Theatre – which we have performed at before with our four-piece band – with a huge 23-piece Big Band is a lovely way to say thank you to the Penrith community and the wider western Sydney community. They have been a huge support for us throughout our careers.”

The singer has assured the Weekender that everyone will be able to enjoy the epic show.

“We perform music that’s 50 to 70 years old, but everybody seems to know the songs. It’s not just people that grew up in the era, but it’s also younger people who

recognise ‘Oh, What a Night’, ‘Sherry’, and ‘Walk Like a Man’,” he explained.

“It’s music that brings everyone together, and that’s what we’re hoping to do on Mother’s Day because mothers obviously bring families together.

“Not only that, but there are a number of musicians in the Australian Army Band that are mothers. The main singer in the Australian Army Band is currently pregnant with her fourth child, and she will be performing on the day.”

Make Mother’s Day special and donate to MND NSW by seeing The Vallies and the Australian Army Band at 4pm on May 10. Tickets through Panthers.

ALLY HALL

At the movies...

As someone born in 2000, I didn’t grow up with Michael Jackson. I had little more than a passing awareness of the cultural impact his career had. So, when my grandmother suggested we see ‘Michael’, I didn’t expect much beyond a nostalgic trip for her and a snooze in the cinema for me. Instead, I walked out genuinely surprised by how engaging the movie turned out to be.

Much of the conversation around the movie has focused on what it leaves out, particularly regarding Jackson’s later life. But that criticism feels misplaced given the film is designed to be the start of telling the King of Pop’s story. This film ends in 1988, leaving the door open to tell the rest of Michael’s story.

What ‘Michael’ does include is incredibly compelling. The movie opens in 1966,

introducing a young Michael through Juliano Valdi’s standout performance. Valdi captures not only the obvious talents like the beginning of Michael’s vocal brilliance and sharp choreography but also the emotional strain of a childhood shaped by relentless familial pressure. Opposite him, Colman Domingo’s performance as Joe Jackson is chillingly effective as a father driven by ambition whose harshness looms over every moment of the Jackson 5’s rise.

As the story moves into Michael’s adult years, Michael’s nephew Jaafar Jackson steps into the role, and it’s here the film truly finds its rhythm. Jaafar’s resemblance to his uncle is uncanny and more than that, he is able to capture the intangible qualities Michael had like the softness in his demeanor, his childlike personality, and the clear loneliness

Michael felt throughout his career.

The film does an excellent job of contrasting Michael’s public and private selves. On stage, he’s electric with every movement precise, and every note delivered with confidence. Off stage, he feels sad and lonely, as though the persona that made him famous also separates him from the world around him.

Crucially, the movie passes the biggest test any Michael Jackson biopic faces –

recreating the legendary stage presence. Jaafar rises to the challenge, convincingly replicating the voice, the choreography, and the charisma that defined who Michael was. This isn’t a definitive portrait of the life of Michael Jackson, but it is an energetic, moving introduction to a complex figure, and a promising first step in telling a much larger story.

See this movie at Penrith Hoyts.

– Emily Chate

See these movies at... PENRITH

THINGS TO DO

After Dark

Savour the best of High Street’s local eateries by dining outdoors whilst enjoying live entertainment from musicians and roving performers at Penrith After Dark. Expect a night of exciting activities, including neon mini golf, garden games, and a silent disco. Don’t miss out on a perfect family night out on May 2. For more information, visit Council’s website.

BARGAIN BUYS

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au.

Penrith CBD Corporation

Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

Seniors Dance Club (Over 55s) Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Call Glenda for details on 0421 322 846.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Probus Club of Nepean

Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club. New members welcome. Call 0417 267 866.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the fourth Monday of the

Dolltopia returns to Penrith

On May 3, Dolltopia returns to Penrith Valley Regional Sports Stadium for a fun-filled day celebrating all things dolls. Guests can browse an impressive variety of dolls, toys, and accessories. Dolltopia offers a place to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share stories, and celebrate the joy of collecting. Book your tickets on Dolltopia’s website.

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

Jordan Springs Probus Club

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

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

South Creek Probus Club

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

Glenmore Park Probus Club Meets third Wednesday of the month at Leonay Golf Club, 10am. Just turn up or call 0426 055 629.

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

Red Cross Penrith

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

Shopping Let’s

Twilight in the Backyard

On May 9, The Backyard at Penrith Panthers will come alive for one massive night of live music. Get ready for a night filled with iconic anthems, big energy and sing-it-loud moments with Jon Stevens, Chocolate Starfish and 19-Twenty lighting up the stage. Twilight in the Backyard is set to go OFF! Get your tickets online at https://premier.ticketek.com.au.

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

Penrith NASHOS

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

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

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

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.

JP service

Located in Western Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown.

MUSEUMS

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

0415 625 573 for more information.

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

Arms of Australia Inn

Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.

Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.

Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

Penrith

Something for everyone

COUNTRY CORNER

Langley rules the roost There is no bigger star in country music right now than Ella Langley.

She’s breaking records (some of them set by Taylor Swift), selling out shows and becoming a huge mainstream talent.

And her new album ‘Dandelion’ should win every award it competes for.

It’s full of excellent songs –‘Be Her’, ‘We Know Us’ and ‘Bottom of Your Boots’ being faves of us here at Country , along with ‘Choosin Texas’ of course – which has become a smash hit success that will likely define LangLangley is that artist who comes along every now and again who appeals to modern country music fans but has that style that also endears her to fans of more

traditional country. She really can’t put a foot wrong at the moment – let’s hope we see her in Australia soon too.

Ethan makes history

Keith Urban and the Tamworth Country Music Festival has announced

Ethan Calway as the inaugural recipient of the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship – a major new initiative spotlighting Australia’s next global country export.

The announcement follows the launch of the groundbreaking initiative earlier this year, which generated widespread excitement across the Australian country music community and attracted a strong field of emerging talent nationwide.

Designed to support one rising Australian country artist ready to take the next step internationally, the scholarship offers a career-defining opportunity in Nashville – including the chance to perform, write, record, connect with key industry figures and undertake dedicated recording time at Urban’s studio, The Sound.

Hailing from Warragul, Victoria, Calway stood out for his electrifying guitar work, raw yet emotive vocal style and an authenticity that signals strong global potential. Blending country, rock and storytelling influences, his artistry reflects both lived experience and a clear creative vision – marking him as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging voices.

“Ethan has something really special,” said Urban.

“There’s a rawness and honesty in what he does that really connects. I’m excited to see what this next chapter brings for him and to be part of that journey.”

Ê The new season of ‘Who Do You Think You Are? will premiere on SBS on Tuesday, May 12 at 7.30pm. This year’s cast includes Matt Day, Rosie Batty, Curtis Stone, Guy Sebastian, Bruce McAvaney, Essie Davis, Aaron Pedersen and Chrissie Swan. Across eight episodes, the series delivers some of its most emotional and visually rich storytelling to-date, from long-lost family legacies and migration stories, to confronting generational trauma and moments of profound personal connection.

Ê The new season of ‘Have You Been Paying Attention?’ will premiere on 10 next Monday, May 4 at 8.40pm. Each week, panellists Ed Kavalee and Sam Pang are joined by the sharpest comedic minds in the biz, ready to test their wits. Tom Gleisner returns as Quizmaster-in-chief.

Ê Nine is the new free-to-air home of the National Basketball League, inking a two-year deal that will see two NBL games available every week across the 9Network. Broadcast highlights for the 2026/27 season include: two marquee games per week on

esso-compatible ee into a beautiful reminder of how much she means

Saturday evenings; the NBL Finals Series live; weekly show ‘NBL Overtime’; and a dedicated NBL Hub on streaming service 9Now. The NBL had previously been airing free-to-air games on 10 as well as ESPN.

Ê News that will make my work colleagues very happy, long-running US drama ‘Law & Order: SVU’ has been renewed for a whopping 28th season. Unfortunately, it’s not great news for ‘Law & Order: Organised Crime’, which has been axed after five seasons.

Ê Good news for fans of ‘Young Sherlock’, with Prime Video renewing the popular Sherlock Holmes series for a second season. Through its first 28 days of release, ‘Young Sherlock’ reached 45 million viewers and ranks among the top 10 Prime Original Seasons all-time. The series hit number one in over 95 countries worldwide!

Thoughtful,

Order by Monday, 7 May 2026 and we’ll include

Ê The new season of ‘SAS: Australia v England’, which is set in the blistering North African heat, premiered on Seven this week. The series features 14 Australian and British celebrities, including Olympians Mack Horton and Emily Seebohm, cricketer Brad Hodge, actors Nat Bassingthwaighte and Ryan Maloney, presenter Axle Whitehead and former ‘MAFS’ contestant Jessika Power. Look, I must admit the cast is pretty lacklustre and the fact Ant Middleton isn’t in this season is very disappointing. If you missed the first episode, you can catch up via 7Plus. New episodes premiere Wednesday nights at 7.30pm.

Ê Disney+ has launched its new ‘Standard with Ads’ plan available at $9.99/month for Australian subscribers, alongside the current Standard ($15.99) and Premium ($20.99) plans.

Nathan Taylor

TV NEWS

AIRING NOW SAS: AUSTRALIA

TV Guide: May 1 - 7

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Compass 10:30 Stuff The British Stole (PG) 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 12:55 The Assembly (PG) 1:40 Bad Company (PG) 2:10 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee 3:00 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 3:55 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:35 Gardening Australia (PG) 8:35 Patience (M v) 9:25 Gruen 10:00 Urzila (M) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Movie: “Death By Design” (AKA ‘Morning Show Mystery: Death By Design’) (PG) (’19) Stars: Holly Robinson Peete 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 8:00 Sydney Weekender Special 9:00 Movie: “Shotgun Wedding” (M l,v) (’22) Stars: Jennifer Lopez 11:05 My Reno Rules (PG) 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “How To Win A Prince” (PG) (’23) Stars: Anna Hopkins 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 NRL: Redcliffe Dolphins v Melbourne Storm *Live* 9:55 NRL: Post-Match 10:45

Yorkshire Vet (PG)

3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Mountain Men (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Western Bulldogs v Fremantle Dockers *Live*

3:30 Ready, Steady, Wiggle! 3:55 Tish Tash 4:30 Mojo Swoptops 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Fireman Sam 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:10 Gardening Australia Junior 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 12:00 ABC News At Noon 1:00 ABC News Day 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 The Pacific 8:00 ABC News Tonight

6:00

2:05

3:00 Intolerant Cooks (PG) 3:30 Extended Family (PG) 4:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 4:30 The Conners (PG) 5:00 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 6:30 Movie: “Dakota” (PG) (’22) Stars: Abbie Cornish 8:30 Movie: “Yesterday” (M l) (’19)

4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Laputa: Castle In The Sky” (PG) (’86) Stars: Anna Paquin

3:00 QI (PG) 3:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:00 MythBusters (PG) 4:50 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 5:40 Grand Designs (PG) 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 5:30 Food Safari 6:00 The Chocolate Queen 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Instant Italian 8:00 The Hairy Bikers USA 8:30 Jamie’s Super Food 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK

(M

10:30 The Living Room (PG) 11:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 Bull (M s,v) 2:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 11:30 Becker (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:00 Friends

12:15 DW The Day 12:45 Land Of The Giants: Titans Of Tech (M) 2:25 Bamay 3:00 Where Are You Really From? (PG) 3:30 Worldwatch 5:35 Inside The Huddle 6:05 Over The Black Dot 6:35 Jeopardy! 7:25 NITV News Update 11:45 Rugby Heaven (PG) 12:45 Premier League Stories (PG) 1:15 Lego Masters (PG) 2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Wedding Singer” (M l,s) (’98)

2:00 Medical Rookies (PG) 2:30 Better Homes And Gardens 4:30 Harry’s Practice 5:00 The Yorkshire Vet (M l) 6:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (M l) 8:30 Lewis (M v) 10:30 Escape To The Country 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 Night Thunder 4:00 Frozen Gold (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Men In Black: International” (PG) (’19) Stars: Chris Hemsworth

1:30 10 Years Younger In 10 Days (PG) 2:30 Instant Hotel (PG) 3:40 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 5:40 Movie: “Smurfs: The Lost Village” (G) (’17) Stars: Demi Lovato 7:30 Movie: “Marry Me” (PG) (’22) Stars: Jennifer Lopez

Eat With

3:30 QI (PG) 4:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:30 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Phil Spencer:

3:35 Movie: “Walkabout To Hollywood” (PG) (’80) Stars: Robert Powell 4:30 This Is Indian Country (PG) 4:55 Treaty Road 5:55 Our Law (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l)

6:10 Grand Designs (PG) 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 5:30 Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain 6:00 Nadiya’s Family Favourites 6:30 Jamie Cooks Italy 7:30 Tour De Fred: Northern Ireland 8:30 Rick Stein’s Mediterranean Escapes 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s Tour

Attenborough’s Galapagos 2:55 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef 4:10 Judgement - Cases That Changed Australia (PG) 5:00 Australian Story 5:30 Landline 6:00 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Death In Paradise (PG) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Hawkesbury/ Bendigo/ Eagle Farm/ Morphettville *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:00 Oops I Bought A Pub! (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Hidden Figures” (PG) (’16) Stars: Taraji P Henson 11:05 SAS - Aus Vs. Eng (PG) 12:05 Devils (MA15+) 2:00 Home Shopping 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday (PG) 12:00 Open For Inspection 12:30 Great Australian Detour 1:00 Explore TV-Viking 1:30 Taronga - Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 2:30 The Hundred With Andy Lee (PG) 3:30 Tasman Trails 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope” (PG) (’77) Stars: Mark Hamill 9:00 All 4 Adventure (PG) 10:00 Roads Less Travelled 10:30 Farm To Fork 10:45 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 11:45 The Dog House UK 12:45 Buy To Build 1:15 Frugal Foodie 1:45 MasterChef Australia (PG) 3:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 3:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 The Dog House UK 7:30 Love It Or List It Australia 9:30 Ambulance Australia (M l) 10:30 Matlock (M s,v) 11:30 Elsbeth (PG) 12:30 Home Shopping 12:00 Worldwatch 1:00 Motorsport: Hi-Tec Oils Super Series *Live* 5:00 Stories From The Cities (PG) 5:30 Plat Du Tour 5:35 Cold War Spies: Most Wanted 6:30 SBS

Snowpiercer (MA15+)

4:30 Football: Ninja ALeague Womens: Semi Finals: Melbourne Victory v Melbourne City *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight 7:30 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Elimination Final: Melbourne Victory v Sydney FC *Live* 10:00 NCIS (M v) 6:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 7:00 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 9:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:30 Ridiculousness (M l) 2:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Ridiculousness (M l) 1:00

12:15 Faking Influence 12:50 Black Comedy In America (M l,s) 2:40 Wine Lovers’ Guide To Australia 3:40 Worldwatch 5:45 Mastermind 6:45 The MegaBrands That Built The World 7:35 Abandoned Americana (M l,v) 8:30 Icons Unearthed

2:05 Snackmasters (PG) 3:40 Movie: “The Dust Factory” (PG) (’04) Stars: Hayden Panettiere 5:40

Movie: “Superman IV: The Quest For Peace” (PG) (’87) Stars: Christopher Reeve 7:30 Movie: “Suicide Squad” (M) (’16) Stars: Margot Robbie

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 The Assembly (PG) 3:20 JudgmentCases That Changed Australia (PG) 4:10 Grand Designs (PG) 5:00 Back Roads 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass 7:00 ABC News 7:30 The Assembly (PG) 8:15 Bad Company (M l) 8:40 Bergerac (MA15+) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Football: Sunday Footy Feast *Live* 2:30 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:30 Border Security - International (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 Seven News Spotlight (PG) 9:00 Betrayal (MA15+) 11:00 24 Hours In Police Custody (M l) 12:30 A Friend Of The Family (M) 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 NRL: Sunday Footy Show *Live* 1:00 Drive TV - Drive Car Of The Year 1:30 Reel Destinations 2:00 Oz Off Road TV 3:00 NRL: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks v Wests Tigers *Live* 6:00 NINE

AFL: Sydney Swans v Melbourne Demons *Live* 6:00 Border Security - International (PG) 7:00 AFL: Gold Coast Suns v GWS Giants *Live*

2:30 Sean’s Kitchen (PG) 3:30 A Moveable Feast (PG) 4:00 Animals Aboard With Dr. Harry (PG) 5:00 Behave Yourself (PG) 6:00 Puppy School (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v)

1:10 Movie: “Tommy The Toreador” (G) (’59) Stars: Tommy Steele 3:00 Rugby Union: Norths v Randwick *Live* 5:00 Movie: “West Of Zanzibar” (G) (’54) Stars: Anthony Steel 7:00 Rugby Union: Reds v Brumbies *Live*

3:35 The Final Quarter (PG) 4:55 A Journey Between The Fires (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) 7:35 The People Vs. Robodebt (M l) 8:35 Movie: “God And Country” (PG) (’24) Stars: William J. Barber II 10:00 Navigating The World 11:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:30 All 4 Adventure (PG) 12:30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures 1:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Clear And Present Danger” (M v) (’94) Stars: Harrison Ford 10:00 Blue Bloods (M v) 6:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 7:00 Deal Or No Deal 9:30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) 6:00

American Adventure 6:35 Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

7:30 Guillaume’s

8:00 Girls Guide: Hunting Fishing

8:30 Rick Stein’s

9:30 Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s

5:00 Worldwatch 10:35 Jeopardy! 1:00 Motorsport: Hi-Tec Oils Super Series *Live* 5:10 Worldwatch 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (M) 8:30 Icons Unearthed 10:20 Myths: Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity (PG)

1:50 The Summit (PG) 3:30 The Toys That Built The World (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” (PG) (’19) Stars: Chris Pratt 7:30 Movie: “Godzilla: King Of The Monsters” (M l,v) (’19) Stars: Kyle Chandler

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

1:00 The Baron (PG) 2:00 Movie: “The Green Man” (G) (’56) Stars: Alastair Sim 3:40 Movie: “The Captain’s Paradise” (G) (’53) Stars: Alec Guinness 5:30 Midsomer Murders (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Mammals (PG)

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4:00

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 TBA 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago Dragons Rising (PG)

2:25

(M s,v) 3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 3:00 The

(PG) (’63) Stars: Tom Courtenay 5:30 The Derbyshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (M s,v) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club

(PG) 4:30

(PG)

Conners (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 House (MA15+) 10:30 NCIS (M v) 6:00 Bamay 6:45 Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) 7:35 Ice Vikings (PG) 8:30 Pro Bull Riding USA 9:30 Over The Black Dot

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 TBA 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago Dragons Rising (PG) 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 4:55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent

12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v)

3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Flip Or Flop 5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA

3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Police Academy” (PG) (’84) 3:40 Movie: “Spring In Park Lane” (G) (’48) Stars: Anna Neagle 5:30 The Derbyshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Bergerac (MA15+) 1:45 Spicks And Specks (PG) 2:25 Anh’s

PERFECT SPLASH

MORE THAN JUST WATER: POOL CHOICE IS TOUGH

Australia’s love affair with backyard swimming pools continues to surge, but experts say many homeowners are jumping in without understanding the major differences between the types of water systems available and their ongoing cost and maintenance.

According to Brett Blair, head of the pool care division at Jim’s Pool Care, Australians are installing around 20,000 to 25,000 new swimming pools every year, bringing the total number of backyard pools across the country to approximately more than 1.4 million pools.

Yet many pool owners are surprised to learn that the water system they choose can signif-

icantly affect installation costs, chemical use and long-term maintenance.

“People spend tens of thousands installing a pool but often don’t realise the type of water system they choose will determine how much time and money they spend maintaining it,” Blair said.

“Not all pools are created equal.”

Blair said the easiest option for a backyard pool is the traditional chlorine pool. They remain the most affordable and straightforward system, however are very manually intensive and have dropped away significantly since the introduction of Salt Water Chlorinated Systems.

“These pools rely on liquid

chlorine, tablets or granules to disinfect the water and prevent bacteria and algae growth,” Blair said.

However, chlorine systems require regular chemical balancing and monitoring.

“They’re effective but they do need more hands-on management,” Blair said.

“You’ll be testing water more frequently and adding chemicals regularly.”

Blair said saltwater pools are Australia’s most common system. They have become the most popular system in Australian homes, but are still chlorine pools.

“These pools use a salt chlorinator that converts salt into chlorine automatically, meaning the pool equipment system does all the heavy lifting on a daily basis,” he said.

“Salt pools are very popular because they’re easier to manage day-to-day. They still produce chlorine, but it’s done automatically by the system rather than constantly adding chemicals.”

Saltwater systems typically cost more upfront because of the chlorinator equipment, but they often require less manual chemical dosing. They do require a minimum level of salt in the water.

Blair said the biggest trend he is seeing is the growth of mineral and magnesium pool water systems. He said this is the luxury trend that is growing across the country in pools, but is becoming more affordable and minerals can have many benefits. Across the country you are seeing a proliferation of day spas using these minerals in their health and beauty programs, but pool owners can have these benefits right at home.

“These pools use mineral blends such as magnesium, potassium and sodium which offer a range of health benefits” he said.

“Many people say mineral pools feel like swimming in a luxury spa. The water is noticeably softer and gentler on skin, hair and eyes. The minerals and sodium help the chlorinator produce and the sanitiser is still ultimately chlorine.

“SALT POOLS ARE VERY POPULAR BECAUSE THEY’RE EASIER TO MANAGE DAY-TO-DAY”

“While these pool water systems offer benefits they usually come with higher installation and maintenance costs, but owners who have taken the step up are usually very positive about the bathing experience.

“The minerals themselves need to be replenished periodically and that means ongoing costs can be higher compared with traditional systems.”

At the high end of the market are advanced sanitation technologies including ionisers, UV and ozone systems, which dramatically reduce the need for chemicals and can run the minimum levels of chlorine based on Australian Standards. These systems use ultraviolet light or ozone gas to destroy bacteria and contaminants.

“These systems have come a long way and are now incredibly effective in most climates and can reduce chemical use,” Blair said.

“However, the technology behind them is sophisticated and the equipment costs are much higher.”

Blair said installation costs and ongoing maintenance vary widely depending on the system chosen.

CONTACT

AGENT FOR PRICE

Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park

CONTACT:

Oran Park Sales Office

Trevor Homes • 9043 7500

OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK

What is so great about this property?

Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.

Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its

foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day.

With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.

Who does this property suit?

Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes.

Tell us about the suburb this property is in?

Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.

Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers.

Visit today!

Discover exclusive townhome

living in Oran Pa rk .

Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a back yard and the low-maintenance qualities of apar tment living

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved at tractions.

Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences of fer excellent value-for-money.

• Spacious, designer interiors

• Landscaped grounds

• Two to five-bedroom layouts

• Private porches and cour tyards

• Family-friendly living areas

• Premium finishes and inclusions

• Tranquil locations

Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfor t and practicality. A beautiful lifest yle in one of Au stralia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomesB anksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

The ResidencesTypical example of Oran Park townhomes

Blaxland

McDonald's

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

IGA Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Dan Murphy's

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Plus Pharmacy

Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

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 lenbrook

Glenbrook Newsagency

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's Glenmore Park

McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Abel Street C afé

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Takeaway

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen –

(Penrith Homemaker)

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

Taproom On Tench

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

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Atmosphere Gym

Ca fé Fre d

Au stralian Arms

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hog's Bre ath C afé

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 Hotel

Penrith Markets (Thursdays)

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Tattersalls Hotel

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

Wingsto p

World Gym

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Choice Pharmacy

Mobil Ser vice Station

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys

All Good Newsagency

Andrew s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido s Hair C are

The Experts

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REDUCES STRESS

Stress and anxiety are widespread issues that affect a large portion of the population. While psychological therapy and medication are important in managing mental health, one highly effective and often underutilised strategy is exercise. Physical activity is not only beneficial for physical health, but also plays a significant role in improving mental well-being. Research consistently shows that engaging in regular exercise can help reduce stress and ease symptoms of anxiety.

During exercise, the body releases endorphins – chemicals that help improve mood and create a sense of well-being. These “feel-good” hormones interact with the brain to reduce discomfort and promote positive emotions. In addition, physical activity helps lower cortisol levels, which is the body’s primary stress hormone. By reducing cortisol, exercise can contribute to a calmer and more stable emotional state.

Exercise also supports better sleep, which is essential for managing stress and anxiety. Poor sleep can worsen both conditions, often creating a cycle that is difficult to break. Regular physical activity helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to fall asleep and maintain quality rest throughout the night.

The benefits are not purely physiological. Exercise also provides important psychological advantages. Participating in regular physical activity can improve mood, enhance emotional resilience, and offer a constructive distraction from daily stressors.

Social interaction is another

key benefit. Group classes or team-based activities can help build connections with others, reducing feelings of isolation that are often linked to anxiety. The shared experience and sense of support in these environments can significantly improve mental well-being.

Importantly, high-intensity training is not required to gain these benefits. Moderate activities such as walking, swimming, or even gardening can be effective. The most important factor is consistency. Aiming for around 30 minutes of activity on most days can lead to meaningful improvements in stress levels and overall mood.

As understanding of the link between exercise and mental health continues to grow, more people are recognising physical activity as a simple, accessible, and cost-effective way to support both mind and body. When stress begins to build, incorporating movement into your day can be a powerful and practical solution.

SPOT THE SIGNS OF ARTHRITIS IN PETS EARLY The Experts

As the crisp mornings return and temperatures begin to drop, many of us reach for an extra layer. But for our pets, cooler weather can do more than bring a chill – it can worsen underlying conditions like arthritis.

Arthritis is one of the most common yet under-recognised diseases affecting pets. Around one in five dogs will experience the pain and reduced mobility associated with arthritis, and cats are just as susceptible. However, because pets cannot tell us when they’re in pain, the early signs are often missed or mistaken for “just getting older.”

In reality, arthritis is a chronic, progressive condition that causes inflammation, stiffness, and ongoing discomfort in the joints – most commonly the hips, knees, and elbows. It can affect pets of any age or breed and, without management, can significantly impact their quality of life, limiting simple daily activities like walking, playing, or even getting up comfortably.

As the weather cools, symptoms often become more noticeable. You may see stiffness after rest, limping, reluctance to walk or play, difficulty climbing stairs, licking at joints, or even changes in personality such as irritability or withdrawal. In cats, signs may be more subtle, including reduced grooming

or toileting issues.

While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed — and early intervention is key. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, control pain, and slow disease progression.

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors, as excess weight places added strain on sore joints. Gentle, regular exercise such as walking or swimming

helps keep joints mobile without overloading them. Nutritional support can also play a role, with omega-3 fatty acids helping to reduce inflammation and supplements like greenlipped mussel, glucosamine, and chondroitin supporting joint health. Prescription joint diets are another valuable tool in improving comfort and mobility.

Veterinary treatments have advanced significantly in recent years. Joint-support injections and anti-inflammatory medications remain important in managing pain and protecting cartilage. More recently, monoclonal antibody injections have emerged as a breakthrough treatment. Given monthly, these injections target the pain pathways associated with arthritis and have shown impressive results in both dogs and cats.

The key message is simple: don’t wait for Winter. If you’ve noticed even subtle changes in your pet’s mobility or behaviour, now is the time to act. Early assessment and a tailored management plan can make a significant difference to your pet’s comfort, helping them stay active, happy, and pain-free through the cooler months and beyond.

If you’re concerned your pet may be showing signs of arthritis, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 to arrange an assessment.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The Sun and Mercury activate your family zone, so home is where the heart is this week. Even though you may be faced with an unpredictable domestic problem, be thankful for the relatives who nurture and support you. As birthday great Audrey Hepburn wisely observed, “I may not always be offered work, but I’ll always have my family.” With restless, proactive Mars visiting your local travel zone, try to escape on a much-needed weekend getaway.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

It’s time for Bulls to bewitch and bewilder! With the Sun and Mercury both transiting through your sign, your positive and negative Taurus traits are boosted this week. So expect to be more sensual, stable, patient and dependable … and more possessive, pedantic, slow-moving and stubborn! Your motto for the moment is from iconic Taurean actress (and birthday great) Audrey Hepburn, “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy.”

LEO

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

This week the planets increase your tendency to blurt things out and spread secrets. So think before you speak, Pisces! When it comes to a recalcitrant relative or an annoying neighbour, be more diplomatic as you build bridges and let bygones be bygones. And don’t let negative self-talk hold you back. Be inspired by actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929), “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Venus (the planet that rules appearance and aesthetics) is visiting Gemini and Jupiter is jumping through your self-esteem zone. So the stars urge you to look for the inner beauty within yourself – and other people. Here are some beauty tips from Hollywood movie star (and birthday great) Audrey Hepburn, “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak words of kindness. And for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”

VIRGO

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Ambitious Saturn, creative Neptune and dynamic Mars (your patron planet) are visiting your sign, so your fiery, passionate, proactive, boisterous, bossy Aries side will be on full display. Do your best to get must-do, routine tasks out of the way early in the week. Then you can enjoy the activities that really make your heart sing. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn, “I believe, every day, you should have at least one exquisite moment.”

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Jolly, generous Jupiter (the planet of prosperity and positivity) is transiting through your sign until June 30. This lucky placement only happens every 12 years, so make the most of it while it’s still around! You’ll find confidence, authenticity and robust self-esteem will take you places. Be inspired by Hollywood movie star, fashion icon and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn, (who was born on May 4, 1929) “Always be a first-rate version of yourself.”

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23 LIBRA

Have you been hibernating in your Lion’s den? With Mercury and the Sun (your ruler) activating your career zone, do your best to initiate positive, creative changes at work. It’s time to be bold rather than brooding, and proactive rather than reactive. And spend some quality time in nature. If you’re lucky enough to have one, then get out and potter in the garden. As birthday great Audrey Hepburn observed, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week the Sun and Mercury are moving through your relationship zone, so the focus is on partnerships (of the romantic, platonic and business variety).

Smart Scorpios will go out of your way to avoid controlling behaviour and power struggles, as you argue a lot less and empathise a lot more. As Hollywood movie star, humanitarian and birthday great Audrey Hepburn wisely observed, “Nothing is more important than empathy for another human being.”

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Generous Jupiter activates your hopes and wishes zone, which boosts confidence as you pursue ambitious and adventurous aspirations for the future. Avoid being too safe and sensible! Let go of a perceived failure that has been holding you back. If you learn from your mistakes, then you can finally move forward. Family and friends will help you along the way. Your motto is from Audrey Hepburn, “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Impatient, speedy Sagittarians can be too quick to ditch family members, dismiss close friends, and disregard work colleagues who stuff up or disappoint. But is that always the best thing to do? Perhaps some people deserve a second chance? As movie star, humanitarian and birthday great Audrey Hepburn said, “People have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed. Never throw out anyone.” Work and family are connected on Wednesday.

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Prosperity planet Jupiter is jumping through your career zone until June 30, which only happens every 12 years. So don’t procrastinate and dilly-dally Libra. A lucky opportunity could come out of the blue. You need to make hay while the sun shines and strike while the iron is hot! Be inspired by birthday great, actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn, (who was born on May 4, 1929) “Opportunities don’t often come along. When they do, you have to grab them.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

This week you’ll be at your Capricorn best as the Sun and Mercury light up your leisure and pleasure zone. Wednesday is the best day to relax and socialise with family and friends. In the words of birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn, “Enjoy the day to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come.” With Mars, Saturn and Neptune moving through your home zone, you may also have to lend a helping hand to a stressed relative or housemate.

BEYOND WINERIES: A

Ever since I started travelling nearly 20 years ago, I’ve always had a fascination with staying at unique accommodation.

I once stayed on a floating hotel, known as the Botel, in stunning Amsterdam, and I’ve also stayed the night under the stars in a luxury Bubbletent at beautiful Capertee Valley near Lithgow.

There’s something about these types of properties that bring me plenty of joy, so when I had the opportunity thanks to Luxury Escapes to stay at a former boarding school / nuns convent over in the Hunter Valley, you can imagine my excitement!

These days, The Convent Hunter Valley is an amazing five-star, 19-room luxury boutique hotel nestled on a private estate in Pokolbin, surrounded by vineyards and gardens, but its former life as a boarding school run by Irishborn Brigidine nuns is incredibly fascinating.

“I JUST LOVED BEING OUT THERE ON THE VERANDA WHEN THE SUN WAS SETTING”

Built in 1909 in Coonamble – some five hours west of Pokolbin – The Convent Hunter Valley served as a Roman Catholic convent and boarding school for the Brigidine Order for 70 years.

After closing in 1980, the timber building was rescued from demolition in 1990 and transported in sections 600km east to its current location at the end of Halls Road in Pokolbin.

The historic convent was then carefully reconstructed by a team of builders and engineers, and repurposed into the 19-room luxury hotel that we see today.

Recently, I was lucky enough to spend two nights at this wonderful property, staying in

a Superior Suite that was once a place where boarders slept all those years ago.

Perhaps my favourite part of my suite wasn’t the high ceilings, comfy bed or vintage furniture, instead it was the dual access I had to The Convent’s second-storey veranda, which had gorgeous views of the property’s well-manicured gardens and showpiece water fountain as well the working vineyards in the distance. I just loved being out there on the veranda when the sun was setting, enjoying a glass of local wine and my delicious takeaway cheese platter from the nearby Binnorie Dairy.

If The Convent looks familiar to you in my photos, that’s because it’s the location for where the Seven Network’s ‘Farmer Wants a Wife’ is filmed.

Another highlight of The Convent Hunter Valley is that it’s located on the same estate as several other standout venues, including the renowned Pepper Tree Winery and historic

restaurant Circa 1876.

Set amongst the estate’s historic homestead, vineyards and kitchen garden, Circa 1876 has long been regarded as one of the Hunter’s most distinguished dining experiences. I met Circa 1876’s recently appointed executive chef Anthony Fullerton during my visit and he was very impressive – I couldn’t wait to taste his food!

Anthony brings more than 35 years of experience to the Circa 1876 kitchen, and his menu captures the warmth and generosity of provincial France, expressed through local Hunter Valley ingredients.

Guests can choose to dine from a two-course set (lunch only) for $90 per person, or threecourse set (lunch and dinner) for $120 per person.

To start the meal, Hunter Valley sourdough and Coppertree Farms cultured butter was served to our table alongside Adina mixed olives and olive grissini.

For our entrées, my wife and I tucked into the Seared Scallop as well as the Tortelloni, while for our mains, we were well fed with the Manning Valley Grassfed Striploin and the Aquna Murray Cod.

Before arriving, I heard plenty about the

Enjoying a Tawny at Restaurant Botanica.

A cheese platter at sunset.

The Convent Hunter Valley.

LITTLE LUXURY IN THE HUNTER

desserts at Circa 1876 and they didn’t disappoint!

We selected their famous Crème Brûlée as well as a slice of their freshly baked Walnut & Pear Cake with coconut, orange and pineapple chili sorbet.

The next morning, my wife and I didn’t have to go far to enjoy breakfast, with The Convent Hunter Valley home to their very own on-site restaurant simply called Restaurant Eighty Eight. Here, they just serve breakfast and they do it very, very well.

“IT’S TRULY THE HUNTER’S HIDDEN GEM”

Spending two mornings there, we got to enjoy most of the menu with the Waffles with maple syrup, berries and mascarpone cream being my favourite, while my wife very much enjoyed her fried eggs on sourdough toast with smoked salmon, truss cherry tomatoes and spinach on the side. Each guest also gets to select one hot and one cold beverage when they dine for breakfast, making Restaurant Eighty Eight great value as well!

Following a day of visiting nearby wineries,

breweries and local chocolate shops, it was that time again for dinner and what better way to end our short stay in the Hunter than dining at Spicers Vineyards Estate’s Restaurant Botanica.

Located just a 10-minute drive from The Convent, Restaurant Botanica recently underwent a comprehensive refurbishment and appointed new head chef Thomas Heinrich to launch an entirely new seasonal menu. Thomas’ career spans leading luxury hotels across Australia and North America, and he applies this background to a modern Australian menu centred on seasonal ingredients,

regional producers and refined technique. Dinner is offered as a three-course menu for $115 per person, with an optional $70 wine paring.

For our entrees, my wife and I had the Wild Mushroom with porcini broth as well as the Sautee Prawns, while for our mains, we couldn’t go past the yummy Charred Grilled WA Fremantle Octopus, as well as the Roasted Cauliflower with coconut curry and chickpeas.

And to finish off the evening and to toast my 15 years as a journalist at the Western Weekender, we enjoyed two mouth-watering

desserts – the Honey and Labneh Ice Cream and Mandarin Sorbet – plus a glass of their very best vintage Tawny.

I’ve spent some time at the Hunter Valley before, but it wasn’t a luxurious and fulfilling experience like the one detailed above.

The Hunter is full of brilliant accommodation options, but you’ll be hard pressed to find anywhere as unique, as charming, and as historic as The Convent Hunter Valley. It’s truly the Hunter’s hidden gem, and it’s waiting for you to check-in.

For exclusive offers and to book your next stay, visit www.luxuryescapes.com.

Inside the Superior Suite at The Convent.

Restaurant Botanica.

Scraped (out a living)

12. Gosh!

14. Howled (of hounds)

16.

22. Zambia’s

26. Dined at restaurant (3,3)

32. Church

35. Canvas carry-sacks

37. Donkeys

38. Book extract

40. Not healthy

41. Milking farm

42. Bites persistently

43. Lucifer

44. Connection (3-2)

47. Unearthly

51. Character

52. Hormone organs

53. Biliousness

54. Furthest down

58. Trepidation

59. Former time standard (1,1,1)

61. Fragrance

63. Sworn promises

64. Witnessing

65. Acquiesce

66. Non-clergy

68. Peruvian mammal

71. Located

72. Soviet states (1,1,1,1)

74. Want

76. Curse

78. Scheme

80. USA, Uncle ...

83. Bullfight cry

Word Search

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

THEME: 2000’s Movies

THE

GLADIATOR

THE DEPARTED

BLOOD DIAMOND

FINDING NEMO

CINDERELLA MAN

DONNIE DARKO

A BEAUTIFUL MIND UP INTO THE WILD

KILL BILL

WALK THE LINE

THE INCREDIBLES

TAKEN

SNATCH

ALMOST FAMOUS

–

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Maddie’s Meals

Dad’s Mauritian

Curry

This family curry recipe has been passed down by my father who was born in Mauritius.

This version is vegan friendly, but you can swap the chickpeas and beans for chicken breast!

Can be served over rice or in a wrap (as pictured).

What you’ll need:

– Large Pan or dutch oven

Ingredients:

– 1 can of black beans

– 1 can of chickpeas

– 1 zucchini (diced)

– 3 potatoes (peeled and diced)

– Spices of choice (I use salt, black pepper, white pepper, curry powder, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder and onion

powder)

– 2 tsp vegetable stock

– 1 cup hot water (add more or less depending on how thick you like your sauce)

– 1 tsp corn flour (optional)

Method:

1. Dice zucchini and potato and add them to a pan or dutch oven on medium heat.

2. Add spices and stir through, letting cook until potato has softened slightly.

3. Add chickpeas and black beans, adding spices in again

and stirring, making sure the spices cover everything. Mix stock with hot or boiling water and add to the vegetables.

4. Cook covered until potato is completely soft and the sauce begins to thicken. If sauce is not thickening, make a corn flour slurry (mix 1 tsp corn flour with 2 Tbsp cold water) and add to sauce to thicken it.

5. Once sauce is thick to your liking, serve!

OFF

Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm – 6pm during May! Based on full visitors price. Not valid with any other discount or promotion.

Penrith’s Finest Quality Used Cars

Discover your

and let’s get you moving.

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Top towing Tundra too good

After our previous drive of the Toyota Tundra, we were confident it would be a capable tow vehicle, so when the chance came to test it, we jumped at it.

A quick refresher on the Tundra, it is a full-size American pick-up, proudly built in Texas!, powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol-electric hybrid, producing 326kW and 790Nm.

Our test car was the Platinum specification, which meant it got all the goodies, including heated and cooled seats front and rear, the fronts also had multi-mode massage function.

Returning after a few months away, the seats weren’t as all-encompassing as I remembered, they felt a little flat with not a lot of bolstering, but half an hour later, I was right at home.

No surprise, there was plenty of head, leg and shoulder room, the electrically adjustable steering wheel had plenty of scope for height and reach.

“BIG AND BOLD, COMFORTABLE AND CAPABLE, TUNDRA IS TOP TO TOW”

Priced north of $180,000, the Platinum has literally everything that opens and shuts, including remote operation of the tailgate, clearly those Good Ol’ Boys aren’t big on doing it themselves.

The Tundra is smaller than other US-sourced pick-ups now available here, but still outsizes popular models including the HiLux and Ranger.

It is a long way up even for normalsized people, but once you are up there, it is a commanding position offering plenty of vision, except for the immediate rear, but more on that later.

With enough power to pull a house off its stumps, the next challenge is putting it to work, cue the 10-speed automatic.

As well as a gear for every occasion, the transmission has a tow-haul mode, compensating

for the extra weight out back and smoothing starts and gearshifts, reducing driveline shock under acceleration.

community is inexperienced drivers taking long, heavy, combinations without any specialised training or licence testing.

There is also four-wheel-drive, high and low ranges, although the standard 265/60R20 road-biased tyres will struggle for grip in loose surfaces.

While the Tundra has a tow rating of 4.5 tonnes, it comes at a cost, with the Platinum only taking 704kg in payload, despite the massive tub.

The task at hand was helping a friend move farms, including machinery and implements with a number of loads passing the 3.5-tonne limit of most utes.

Despite the imposing dimensions, hitching the trailer was simple, thanks to the standard reversing camera.

Mounted in the tailgate at a 45 degree angle, it avoids distortion, allowing you to roll under the tow hitch first time, every time. Some might call it cheating, but if the technology works, why not use it?

My favourite part was the bumper-mounted plug, no reaching underneath to find the installer hidden behind the mounting, just walk up and plug it in, attach the safety chains, check lights, a tug test and it is set.

This is where the endless power of the V35A engine kicks in, a gentle application of the throttle takes up the slack and we are good to go.

As a truck journalist, I have tested everything up to triple trailer road trains, this isn’t in that class, but it is a big unit, something causing concern in the heavy transport

With an all-up weight around seven tonnes and a measuring around 11 metres long, this was borderline light rigid truck territory, yet it can be driven on a car licence.

The first adjustment is the length, requiring extra caution when merging, as well as co-operation of other drivers to understand you are taking up more space than a standard car.

The Tundra powered through the low gears effortlessly, we were up to

100km/h in about 15 seconds, the twin turbo V6 rumble reverberating around the cabin.

A couple of thumb pushes engaged cruise control, the computers taking care of maintaining our speed, I set my limit 1-2 km/h under the posted maximum, it gives an extra moment to react as well as encouraging other drivers to pass and give me a clear road.

Our highway run included a number of steady climbs, which the Tundra barely noticed, we felt a minor drop in road speed as they steepened, it just went back to 8th gear and applied the power, the rumble increasing as the revs built and we were quickly back to speed.

One downside to enjoying the throaty V6 burble was the fuel consumption, this is a big car with an equally big thirst, our average on a flat road, cruising at around 108km/h, was 17 litres/100 kilometres, blowing out to over 19 litres/100 kilometres in the hills.

This compares to the 12-13 litres/100 kilometres we recorded during previous testing over similar terrain without a trailer weighing us down.

Toyota gave the Tundra braking power to match the pulling power, the cruise control used a combination of engine braking – dropping down two or three gears before applying the wheel and trailer brakes.

We avoided heavy braking, never a good idea when towing a trailer or a caravan, instead going for steadier applications of longer durations, rather than short sharp hits, allowing the Tundra’s four wheel discs – 354mm front and 335mm rear – to bring the speed down.

We didn’t need the trailer sway control, part of the standard safety systems, hopefully as much due to our good driving as the Toyota technology.

Cross winds weren’t a big issue, the combination of our high gross weights and the trailer’s low profile kept us on the straight and narrow.

The Tundra proved a stable platform and an excellent tow vehicle, firmly planted on the road, comfortably dealing with the vagaries of New South Wales’ rural road network, displaying impeccable road manners.

This very capability could prove its Achilles’ Heel, it was so effortless it can lull unwary drivers into a false sense of security.

There is a school of thought that if you are constantly fighting the vehicle you are more vigilant and less likely to make a mistake.

I prefer a vehicle that allows me to relax into the driving.

The $180,000 and more price tag is an obstacle to ownership, no argument, but if you have the means, and tow long and heavy, it is hard to top the Tundra.

The Tundra is a mean pulling machine.

All the bells and whistles, and the height, make you feel like the king of the road.

Charlotte is a Matilda in the making

NATHAN TAYLOR

One of Penrith’s brightest young talents in football is currently in China representing the Junior Matildas at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup.

17-year-old Charlotte Bradshaw arrived in the country this week to prepare herself for the biggest competition of her blossoming career.

The AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup will be Charlotte’s second time as a member of the Junior Matildas squad after wearing the famous green and gold jersey late last year in Singapore.

“Playing for my country was something I only dreamed of happening and it was really exciting,” Charlotte told the Weekender

“When we played in Singapore we

qualified for the U17 Women’s Asian Cup. We did well to dominate there.

I remember vividly going into the changerooms and standing in front of the mirror and seeing my name on the back of the Australian jersey for the first time – I thought it was amazing, I couldn’t believe it!”

If Charlotte and her teammates perform well at the upcoming U17 Women’s Asian Cup, they’ll automatically qualify the Junior Matildas to the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco later this year.

The top four teams will earn a place at the global event, with Australia pushing to claim one of those coveted qualification spots.

“Australia has never made the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup before, hopefully we can be the first,” said Charlotte, who is a big fan of Matildas star Alanna Kennedy.

“Every game matters and I’m sure every country is going to compete hard. It’s just a matter of us getting out of our group stage and then trying our best to be on top.”

Charlotte is currently joined in China by fellow local footballer and long-time friend Hayley Muir, with the talented pair also involved at the Western Sydney Wanderers together.

The Jordan Springs resident has been playing football since she was a little girl, signing on with local club the Penrith Rovers when she was just four-years-old.

“I was only young when my dad got me into it. He was a soccer coach, so he was keen for me to play it too,”

Charlotte said.

“I always liked football growing up, but I was not afraid to try other sports as well like athletics, dancing

and swimming. Eventually I fell in love with football and so I stuck with it.”

Following her time as a player with the Rovers, Charlotte joined the Blacktown Spartans before eventually winding up at the Wanderers where she plays in the Football NSW National Premier League Women’s First Grade competition.

A popular student at the famous Westfields Sports High School, Charlotte’s grateful for the opportunities she’s had so far.

“I always keep working hard and

never take the foot off the pedal,” the fierce defender said.

“My ultimate goal is to make the Matildas one day and hopefully play for a club overseas.”

Charlotte Bradshaw is the latest recipient of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star Award, which is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club. PVSF Junior Sports Star of the Month winners take home a cool $250 each for their efforts.

Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Charlotte Bradshaw is the latest PVSF Sports Star. Photo: Melinda Jane.

TAKING HIS CHANCE

Western Sydney’s own Joey Delana will be remaining in his home city for many years to come after the 19-year-old inked a new two-deal with the GWS Giants.

The Fijian-Australian will continue wearing the Orange & Charcoal until at least the end of the 2028 AFL season, with his new contract a testament to the hard work and dedication he’s put in so far.

“It’s very exciting I get to stay home for another two years after this season – hopefully I get to stay here for my whole career,” Delana told the Weekender

“It’s great the club has backed me and they are walking the talk. They keep saying they love me and they value me as a player, so it’s nice that they can continue to show their faith in me by giving me those extra two years.”

Part of a big and loving family and support network, Delana said his parents were the first people he shared his life changing news with recently.

“I 100 per cent told Mum and Dad

first. They are very excited and they don’t want me to go to any other club,” he said.

“They love the club, the club welcomed me and my family with open arms, so they are very happy I signed on for another two.”

Debuting in 2025, Delana played three AFL games for the Giants in his rookie season and has backed that number up with another four games already this year.

The medium-forward said his “first real pre-season” coupled with some injuries to his teammates, saw him earn selection in the opening four rounds.

“I just dug in and gave it my all during the pre-season. We’ve got a really good standard here set by all the boys, so I think having such a high standard already just allowed me to train even harder,” Delana said.

“Unfortunately we had a couple of boys get injured in our practice match against Collingwood, which as an unfortunate as it was, opened up opportunities for other young boys, like myself, coming through.

“It’s good for the team those boys are starting to come back, and I’ve had my taste of AFL. Now, hopefully,

I can find some form and play well in the VFL and make my way back up into the team.”

Delana is part of a young generation of Giants players who are slowly making their mark on the AFL world. While they are limited to game time in the top league right now, it’s expected – with plenty of nurturing – they’ll be playing plenty of big games together in the coming years.

“I think we all know what we can achieve together. Us group of young boys, we work pretty hard,” Delana said.

“Obviously all the boys want to play AFL, but we understand the system in place that we need to follow and abide by. We know that if we all stick together and we consistently play with each other, our skills are going to improve and hopefully in a couple of years’ time, we all will be playing AFL together.”

Following last week’s game in Canberra where GWS scored a thrilling seven-point win over North Melbourne, the Giants will hit the road this Sunday for a date against the red-hot Gold Coast Suns. The match will be shown live on FOX Footy.

Joey Delana. Photo: Ryan Jones / Giants.

INSPIRATIONAL COMPETITOR

Story continued from » p.80

A western Sydney father who couldn’t swim a few months ago is set to take on this Sunday’s Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney after participating in a Learn to Swim program at Sydney Gymnastic & Aquatic Centre (SGAC) in Rooty Hill.

Indian-born Amit Gupta migrated to Australia eight years ago and had little experience in the water before taking up adult swimming lessons after he enrolled his kids at SGAC.

“My kids are the reason I started. I wanted to be able to swim with them properly, not just watch from the side,” Gupta said.

“I didn’t really know how to swim. I could get into the water, but I didn’t know the technique or how to swim with my head down properly. The classes really helped me build that confidence.”

That confidence inspired Gupta to start training for Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney.

“The kids are not only happy that we are all able to be in the water together, but they also think it’s pretty cool that Dad is doing a race.”

The 2026 event will also feature an IronKids race on Saturday, May 2, with children aged between 7-13 able to take part.

IronKids Western Sydney is set to be a run/bike/run with 7-9-year-olds taking on a 200m run, 1km ride and 500m run, while 10-13-year-olds will have a 400m run, 3km ride and 1km run.

SEASON BEGINS

Erskine Park takes over as local association’s biggest club

NATHAN TAYLOR

It’s all systems go for the Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) ahead of the start of the 2026 winter season this Saturday morning.

Perfect weather is set to greet the thousands of local netballers on the opening day of competition at Jamison Park Netball Complex.

Penrith Netball’s traditional March Past event returns for another year, with PDNA President Joy Gillett excited to see what the clubs come up with.

“Like every year, I look forward to seeing what themes the various clubs come up with,” she told the Weekender

“If you want to be noticed by the judges, a big tip from me is making an effort through colour, streamers, banners and large numbers. Do something that stands out to grab everyone’s attention.”

Local registrations for the upcoming netball season at Jamison Park have remained steady, with all 18 clubs from 2025 returning this year.

“Our numbers are very similar to last year,” Gillett confirmed.

“There’s still some teams looking for players, which will dribble in over the next month or so.”

In some significant news, Cambridge Park Netball Club are no longer the Association’s biggest club, with Erskine Park the new number one.

“It’s very close… only one team in it but Erskine Park have officially overtaken Cambridge Park,” Gillett said.

“There’s four clubs that sit at

that higher level and they are: Erskine Park, Cambridge Park, Penrith RSL and St Nicholas.

“Another club that is swiftly approaching is Penrith South, who have grown immensely. They have tripled their number of teams, which is quite a bit.”

Also increasing in team numbers ahead of the 2026 season is the small but mighty Jordan Springs Netball Club, who this year will celebrate their 10th anniversary.

“Quite a few clubs will have anniversaries this year, but

Jordan Springs will have their 10th. It doesn’t seem that long ago that they started,” she said.

“It’s good to see smaller clubs like Jordan Springs have gained in numbers this year.”

Netball remains one of Penrith’s most popular sports for females that’s despite data suggesting that the game is down in numbers for the teenage bracket.

“Our juniors have stayed pretty strong, but numbers have dropped for the 14-17-year-olds,” Gillett said.

“That age girls are working part-time jobs and sports like rugby league appeal to that age group as well now. Overall, netball in NSW is up in numbers, but that particular age bracket is down.”

The 2026 PDNA winter season kicks off this Saturday morning at Jamison Park Netball Complex, with the Opening Ceremony and traditional March Past set to begin at 8.30am.

“All the clubs are back and looking forward to that first whistle being blown and for us to be underway again,” Gillett said.

Pendragons Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.

At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.

Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.

We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.

Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384

Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.

Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384

Penrith South Netball Club at last year’s Match Past.

SPORTS SHORTS

Pain finally over for Wanderers

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have finished with the dreaded wooden spoon, losing their final game of the season last Saturday night to Melbourne Victory at CommBank Stadium. In a match that remained goalless through a tense first half, both sides struggled to create clear chances with the game opening up after the break as Victory proved more clinical when it mattered, securing the 2-0 win. The defeat confirmed the end of Western Sydney’s awful season, which saw them finish in last place with five wins, six draws and 15 losses. Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson thanked coach Gary van Egmond, who officially leaves the club after a tough few months at the helm “Gary has been the ultimate professional during what has been a difficult period for the club,” Hudson said. “He stepped in and provided stability at a time when it was needed most, and his work has allowed us to begin planning with greater clarity for seasons ahead. We are incredibly grateful for the way he has conducted himself and the respect he has shown the club, the players and staff. On behalf of the Wanderers, we thank Gary and wish him, and his family all the very best for the future.”

The Wanderers will next be coached by former Sydney FC manager Ufuk Talay. Pre-season training gets underway later this year.

GOLF: The fairways of Leonay Golf Club will come alive with connection, community and purpose as Cancer Wellness Support hosts its Drive for Wellness Charity Golf Day on Friday, May 8. Open to golfers, businesses and community members alike, the event invites everyone to get involved, whether by hitting the green, showcasing their business through a hole sponsorship, joining for lunch or participating in a virtual round. For more than 20 years, Cancer Wellness Support has been improving the lives of local individuals and their families living with cancer across the Blue Mountains, Penrith and Hawkesbury regions. As a locally based,

not-for-profit organisation, it has remained 100 per cent self-funded since inception, powered by its op shops, fundraising activities and the generosity of the community. With demand for cancer support services continuing to grow, particularly in Penrith, events like the Drive for Wellness Golf Day play a vital role in ensuring support remains affordable and accessible. Every swing, sponsorship and sign-up helps expand services, strengthen lymphoedema care, and ensure more local families can access care when they need it most. Event sponsor Stowe Australia has come on board to support the day, with their staff and clients also taking part on the course. Adam Ingleton, Branch Manager from Stowe Australia said: “Being part of the Penrith community means getting behind causes that genuinely make a difference locally. Cancer Wellness Support does incredible work for individuals and families facing cancer, and we’re really proud to play our part in supporting that. With a few keen golfers in our Penrith team, the Drive for Wellness Golf Day felt like a chance to support a great cause while bringing our clients together for a day everyone can enjoy.” Whether on or off the course, the community is encouraged to get involved and help make a difference for local people and families living with cancer. Visit https://makeadifference.cancersupport.org.au/ event/drive-for-wellness.

AFL: The GWS Giants are finally back in the winner’s circle, defeating North Melbourne 105-98 in a thriller last weekend in Canberra. It was a much-needed win for the Giants, who had lost four of their previous five games. The match also marked captain Toby Greene’s 268th appearance for the Giants, taking him past Callan Ward’s career tally and into top place as the Giants’ games-record holder. GWS

will push for back-to-back wins when they travel to the Gold Coast this Sunday evening to play the Suns.

AFL: After enjoying last weekend off, the Penrith Rams will return to the field this Saturday against the North Shore Bombers in Round 4 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. The game will be played at Gore Hill Oval from 10.20am. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes suffered their first loss of the season, hammered by the Wollondilly Knights 45-10 in Round 3 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes will hope to bounce back when they battle the North Shore Bombers this Saturday afternoon at Gore Hill.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have endured another tough weekend in Round 4 of the NBL1 East Men’s and Women’s competitions. Penrith’s men’s team narrowly went down to the Canberra Gunners 72-69 last Saturday night at Southern Cross Basketball Stadium. Simun Krpez top scored for the Panthers with 23 points. Meanwhile, Penrith’s women’s team also suffered defeat in the nation’s capital, losing to the Canberra Nationals 73-52. Hannah Griffin was best for Penrith with 19 points. Both teams will play the Sydney Comets this Sunday at Minto Indoor Sports Centre.

NETBALL: Giants Netball have continued their losing ways, going down to crosstown rivals the NSW Swifts 72-59, to walk away with the Carole Sykes Trophy. The Giants struggled to match it with the Swifts for the majority of the match, losing every single quarter bar the fourth. In the end, despite their own slow start to the season, the Swifts were far too strong.

The Giants will continue to search for their first win when they clash with the Melbourne

this

NETBALL: Netballers from across Penrith will have more support when stepping out onto the court thanks to renewed support from Greater Bank. Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) had a strong 2025 season with almost 3,800 members, and also saw their 15-years side crowned the NSW State Champions and 12-years team awarded runners-up. The association is determined to keep the ball rolling after and use the funding from Greater Bank to support participation costs to ensure that players of all ages, abilities and experience can enjoy the sport. PDNA President Joy Gillet said they are excited to continue to help grow and support players and clubs across all competitions, age groups and genders. “We are incredibly thankful for the support from Greater Bank that will help our association financially support our clubs and representative teams across our competitions,” she said. “Our representative teams had a brilliant season last year and we are looking forward to building on that success in 2026.” Greater Bank Penrith Branch Manager Allison Bateman said she’s looking forward to supporting another year of netball. “Greater Bank are really proud to continue our support of Penrith District Netball Association for the 2026 season and help them bring the local community together through inclusive sporting opportunities,” she said. “Netball is a sport where everyone is welcome to have a go, no matter the level and encourages fun, friendships, teamwork and a healthy lifestyle. We wish everyone the best of luck for the season ahead and see everyone back out on the court.”

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 5 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys belted Manly 52-20, while Penrith Brothers defeated Blacktown 32-18. In the Sydney Shield, Brothers went down to Blacktown 52-14

Vixens

Sunday afternoon at John Cain Arena.

The Wanderers and Melbourne Victory played on ANZAC Day at CommBank Stadium.

The team at Stowe Australia.

The NSW Swifts celebrate beating the Giants.

SCENE SET FOR RACE DAY

Athletes from around Australia and across the globe are putting the final touches on their preparations for a record-breaking Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney this weekend.

A number of temporary road closures will be in place when the major event returns to the Sydney International Regatta Centre and surrounds this Sunday, May 3.

This weekend’s event will see more than 1800 age-group athletes take part in the sold-out event, racing alongside some of the top professional triathletes from across the region.

Sunday’s event will feature a 1.9km swim within the Regatta Centre, a 90km ride heading north on Castlereagh Road and a 21.1km flat and fast run around the venue.

Vice President of Operations for The Ironman Group Asia-Pacific, Rebecca van

Pooss, said the team was looking forward to welcoming athletes to the event.

“Our team can’t wait to welcome more than 1800 athletes to western Sydney for this Sunday’s sold-out event,” she said.

“We have a great mix of athletes set to race on Sunday, from those who are taking on their first Ironman 70.3 to those more experienced, along with a strong field of professional athletes, and we look forward to seeing them make their way down the

Ironman 70.3 finish line this weekend.

“Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney remains a popular event for our athletes from across Australia and further abroad and we’re thrilled to be back in action this week.

We’ll have representatives from around the world take to the start line on Sunday, with New Zealand, the US, India, Singapore and the UK all well represented.”

Story continues on » p. 78

The Regatta Centre. Photo: Tim Bardsley-Smith.

NATHAN TAYLOR