Western Weekender August 7 2025

PANTHERS & PADDLERS

With the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships just over 50 days away, Paddle Australia has announced an iconic partnership that will showcase the best of the Penrith region to the world.

In what’s being described as a “powerhouse move”, Paddle Australia is joining forces with the Panthers Group as a Platinum Partner of the World Championships, a collaboration that unites two of the region’s most successful sporting institutions and underscores Penrith’s place on the global sporting map.

The Panthers Group will play a central

role in next month’s World Championships as the Official Accommodation Partner and Official Hospitality Partner, ensuring athletes, officials and fans experience the very best Penrith has to offer.

Penrith has long punched above its weight in the sporting world, producing Olympic gold medallists like Jess and Noemie Fox, as well as the Penrith Panthers four-peat NRL Premiership run.

The 2025 World Championships are set to further cement the region’s legacy as a home of champions, with more than 300 elite athletes from over 40 nations set to descend on the Penrith Whitewater Stadium from September 29 to October 4.

“Paddle Australia is proud to be part-

nering with such an iconic brand in the Panthers Group,” Paddle Australia CEO, Kim Crane said.

“This is more than a partnership – it’s a celebration of Penrith’s powerhouse spirit and our shared commitment to people, place and performance. Together, we are showcasing the best of Australia to the world and creating a legacy that will ripple beyond water.

“We’re proud to welcome Panthers Group to the Paddle Australia team – a valuesaligned partner who understands that success is always a team sport.”

Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher said he was proud to support the event and to welcome the world to the Panthers Precinct.

“This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to positioning Penrith as a leading destination for international sport and entertainment, with the precinct offering world-class facilities, hospitality, and a vibrant community experience,” he said. Olympic champion Noemie Fox said she was “super excited” about the partnership.

“I think it’s an incredible partnership… it feels like Panthers is trying to lift us up under their wing and that is just amazing to see,” Fox told the Weekender

“We are a small sport and we got a lot of hype after Paris – now a lot of people know what kayaking is, which is incredible.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Thursday, August 7, 2025

YouTube ban a broken promise: McIntosh

Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh has slammed the Government’s decision to include YouTube in the social media age minimum legislation, labelling it as a “blatant broken promise”.

Earlier this month the Albanese Government greenlit the inclusion of YouTube in its under 16 social media laws, to be officially introduced in December, alongside Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and X.

These age restricted social media platforms will face fines of up to $49.5 million if they fail to take responsible steps to prevent underage account holders’ access to their services.

“Our government is making it clear – we stand on the side of families,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“Social media has a social responsibility and there is no doubt that Australian kids are being negatively impacted by online platforms so I’m calling time on it.

“Social media is doing social harm to our children, and I want Australian parents to know that we have their backs.”

Federal Minister for Communications, Anika Wells, said the legislation is about keeping young Australians safe online.

“The Albanese Government is giving kids a

reprieve from the persuasive and pervasive pull of social media while giving parents peace of mind,” Wells said.

“We want kids to know who they are before platforms assume who they are.

“There is no one perfect solution when it comes to keeping young Australians safe online – but the social media minimum age will make a significantly positive difference to their wellbeing.

“The rules are not a set and forget, they are a set and support.

“There are heavy penalties for companies who fail to take reasonable steps to prevent underage account holders onto their services of up to $49.5 million.

“There’s a place for social media, but there’s not a place for predatory algorithms targeting children.”

But McIntosh, who is also the Shadow

Minister for Communications, has slammed the decision to include YouTube in the ban, saying while the protection of children is important, the Government deliberately misled its constituents.

“The Prime Minister says he’s a man of his word, yet he continually says one thing and does another with broken promises on cutting power prices, housing targets, secret plans for higher taxes, and new social media bans,” McIntosh said.

“The Prime Minister and the Labor government reaffirmed YouTube’s exemption before the election.

“They gave YouTube an iron-clad guarantee they would remain exempt. It makes you question what has really changed behind the scenes in the government on this issue, and whether it was an election stunt.

“Let me be clear, the protection of kids online is paramount, and we will never waiver from this commitment. We do not want children to be bullied or targeted online inappropriately.

“In Opposition, the Coalition initiated the social media age minimum because we wanted to protect kids from cyberbullying, predatory behaviour and inappropriate material.”

Should YouTube to be banned for under 16s? news@westernweekender.com.au.

Communications Minister Anika Wells. Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh.

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

A collection of thoughts

It’s been a busy week around the traps, so here’s my thoughts on some of the issues doing the rounds...

A Bridge too far? I think not

Depending on which media outlet you listen to or read, last Sunday’s pro-Palestine march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge was either an absolute disgrace, or a show of incredible unity.

But one of the topics that has emerged in the discussion points is whether landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Sydney Opera House previously, should be used for such protests.

As much as I understand the point that the transport and traffic chaos caused when the bridge shuts down is problematic, I’ve got to say I’ve got no issue with approved protests happening on such landmarks.

The whole point of a protest, especially one on the scale of what happened last Sunday, is to get as much attention as possible for your cause. Marching on a landmark like the Harbour Bridge certainly does that.

Asking people to instead protest quietly somewhere where they’re not a bother kind of ignores the whole point.

It should not be open season on Bridge protests, but a complete ban would seem over the top for me.

NRL oversteps in trainer punishment

There is no doubt that the Panthers deserved a fine for the incident involving trainer Corey Bocking in Saturday’s game against the Titans.

It was a mistake that should not happen, and yes trainers should know better. But you could be an excellent driver for 30 years and still slip up on the roads at some point.

For the NRL to hand down a $50,000 fine to Penrith and a five game ban to the trainer is way over the top.

We’re all forgetting here that Jayden Campbell may have missed the kick anyway, and that he was still given the opportunity to take the conversion. To say it cost Gold Coast the game is a massive over-reach considering they allowed Penrith into an attacking position moments later.

Consider this: Only one player, Sitili Tupouniua, has been suspended for five matches this season.

The NRL is seriously suggesting that the trainer’s misdemeanour is worth more time on the sideline than every other on-field incident this year and equal to that of Tupouniua.

The same NRL who last year only suspended Ezra Mam for nine matches after he crashed his car under the influence of drugs while without a licence, causing a serious accident.

The NRL says it considered previous incidents when coming to its decision.

One of those incidents we presume was Pete Green in 2021 – four years ago!

Another relates to that ball watering saga earlier this year, which Penrith’s opposition were also guilty of.

The company behind the ad, American Eagle Outfitters, saw their share price surge in the wake of the controversy.

And you can bet when sales figures come out, they will be through the roof.

Here’s a newsflash for those who seriously believe there is some disgraceful undertone in this campaign.

American Eagle wants to sell more jeans.

Sydney Sweeney wants to get paid for doing ads for them.

That’s it.

Nothing more.

They’re not trying to draft you into a crusade. There is no hidden meaning.

Good on American Eagle for sticking to the campaign. No deleting videos, no clarifications, just a cheeky little statement in response to the controversy created by people desperate to be offended.

Work from home madness must end

“The ad is a clever piece of marketing, and nothing more”

The Panthers have paid fines to these unrelated previous incidents, and Corey Bocking was not involved in them.

How far does the NRL allow itself to go back?

Hopefully if Ivan Cleary lands in hot water, the NRL doesn’t go back to Phil Gould’s sideline antics in 1994 when deciding its penalty.

Good jeans, great genes

The geniuses determined to be offended by everything have struck again.

That Sydney Sweeney ad – which is a clever piece of marketing, and nothing more – is not racist, fascist or Nazi propaganda, as some online have declared it.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced over the weekend plans to protect the right for applicable Victorian employees to work from home for two days a week.

Can we move on from this madness over working from home?

If you can do it, great. If your employer allows it, great.

There will always be circumstances where working from home makes sense, or where flexible arrangements benefit both employer and employee.

This should always be at the employer’s discretion. We don’t need government intervention.

Try telling bakers, builders, chefs, teachers, police officers, doctors or bus drivers that the work from home debate is important.

We’ve always spoken about governments being less involved in our lives.

Governments themselves have admitted this, and know this.

So how about we all put our big boy pants on and let employers and employees work this out themselves?

Working from home is a legitimate option for so few in the big scheme of things, that this whole debate wastes so much energy and time that could be better used elsewhere.

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Fresh delay in case of man accused of partner’s murder

The man accused of murder after stabbing his girlfriend in Kingswood last year has had his case adjourned again in Penrith Local Court.

Emergency services were called to a unit on the Great Western Highway in Kingswood at 1.40pm on Monday, July 8 last year where they located a 21-year-old woman with two stab wounds to her chest.

Paramedics worked to save the woman for an extensive period of time, but she died at the scene.

The woman was later identified as Fijian national Nunia Kurualeba.

Kurualeba is alleged to have died at the hands of her partner, 21-year-old Jeremaia Tuwai.

It is understood at least one other person was home when Tuwai allegedly stabbed Kurualeba twice in the chest. That person raised the alarm with police.

Tuwai was seen fleeing from the unit but was later apprehended that same evening at a premises on Derby Street in Penrith.

Tuwai was questioned overnight and was charged with ‘murder – DV’ the following morning, Tuesday, July 9. Since his arrest, Tuwai has been remanded into custody.

Tuwai’s case was mentioned in Penrith Local Court last Friday, August 1 where the matter was

adjourned for an additional two weeks.

Tuwai’s Legal Aid lawyer asked for the additional time to be able to provide translation services to her client, despite Tuwai’s proficiency at English, so he can provide instructions.

Tuwai will next appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, August 15.

Driver accused of fatal hit and run remains behind bars

The man accused of leaving a woman for dead after hitting her with his car on a Penrith street has had his case adjourned again.

At about 5.30pm on Thursday, June 5 emergency services were called to Macquarie Avenue, Penrith, following reports that a pedestrian had been struck by a car before it drove away from the scene without stopping.

The woman – named as Yaping Ren, believed to be aged in her 60s – was treated by NSW Ambulance Paramedics at the scene but was unable to be revived.

20-year-old Lasaro Tavai, alleged to have been behind the wheel when Ren was struck, was arrested at about 10.40pm on Friday, June 6 at a home on Taloma Street in South Penrith.

Police have alleged Tavai was disqualified from driving as well as being behind the wheel of an unregistered car when the incident occurred.

He was taken to St Marys Police Station where he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death-drive manner dangerous, negligent driving (occasioning

CCTV footage of the incident.

death), fail to stop and assist after impact cause death, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, and use unregistered registrable Class A motor vehicle on road and was remanded into custody.

Since his arrest, the Fijian national has been remanded in custody at Parklea Correctional Centre.

It is alleged the time of the incident Tavai was on an Intensive Corrections Order (ICO) for other driving offences. Tavai’s case was mentioned in Penrith Local Court last Fridaywhere the case was adjourned for four weeks.

He will front the same court again on Friday, August 29.

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Nunia Kurualeba.

LAW and ORDER

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Cranebrook: Teenager in custody after caught breaching bail

At 3pm on Monday, August 4 police were patrolling The Northern Road in Cranebrook.

Police saw two young people in all black riding two mopeds.

Police followed them towards Pensax Road, where one of the young boys jumped off the moped he was riding and ran.

Police engaged in a foot pursuit and located the 15-year-old Castlereagh youth attempting to hide in the backyard on Warndon Road. He was arrested.

Checks on the moped revealed that all serial numbers had been removed.

The 15-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with ‘take & drive conveyance w/o consent of owner-T1’ and breaching his bail conditions.

The 15-year-old was bail refused and will appear in a Childrens Court at a later date.

Orchard Hills: Man caught mid-range drink driving

At 2am on Thursday, July 31 police were conducting random breath testing on Caddens Road in Caddens. Police stopped a car and had a conversation with the driver, a 42-year-old Caddens man.

The man gave police his driver’s licence and checks were performed on it revealing the man was a disqualified driver.

The 42-year-old was breath tested which returned a positive result.

He was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a further breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.133.

The 42-year-old’s licence was suspended on the spot.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

Kingswood: Man caught carrying knives, a glass pipe and ice

At 9.15pm on Friday, August 1 police were patrolling Bringelly Road in Kingswood when they saw a man riding an electric push bike without a helmet on.

The man has ridden into Santley Crescent in Kingswood where he stopped in the driveway of a unit block.

Checks were conducted on the man, which revealed he was a 34-year-old North St Marys man, who was wanted for an outstanding warrant.

Police approached the man and began attempting to handcuff him, but the 34-yearold leant down, pulled a knife from his pocket and thrown it.

A short wrestle ensued before the 34-yearold was successfully handcuffed.

The man was searched with police locating a further two knives, a glass pipe and four resealable plastic bags containing ice.

The 34-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was formally charged.

The man was bail refused and will appear in Mt Druitt Local Court on Wednesday, August 13.

Penrith: Tip off leads to high range drink driving arrest

At 11.50am on Friday, August 1 police were provided with information which led them to locate a black Nissan Navara on John Oxley Avenue in Werrington County.

Police stopped the car for its manner of driving. Police had a conversation with the driver, a 52-year-old Werrington County man.

Police looked into the car and saw an open case of Hard Rated vodka on the front passenger seat.

They also saw an open can of Hard Rated vodka in the car’s cupholder.

The man was breath tested which returned a positive result.

The 52-year-old was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a further breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.288.

The 52-year-old was charged and had his licence suspended on the spot. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, September 25.

Western Sydney: Mystery over elderly man’s disappearance

Police have renewed an appeal for information into the disappearance of an elderly North Rocks resident earlier this year.

81-year-old David Johnston was last spoken to by a family member on the phone at about 4pm on Sunday, March 16.

On Wednesday, March 19, family contacted officers attached to Parramatta Police Area Command, who commenced inquiries to locate him under Strike Force Allans.

David has limited mobility and would usually only drive as far as his local shops in his grey Nissan Qashqai with NSW registration plates DVX 78M.

However, CCTV obtained by police shows David at a service station in Halfway Creek – about 550km away from home – at 3.39am on Tuesday, March 18. He was last seen that same morning driving west on Kungala Road, Kungala.

Anyone with information should call police.

MOVING YOUR BUSINESS PREMISES?

We moved offices this week. Our new address is 19 Lawson Street, Penrith – a hop skip and a jump from our previous office on High Street.

If you are moving business premises from one leased property to another here are some tips and hints about the things you need to think about:

• The lease for the premises that you are moving from most likely has clauses that say you have to “makegood” the premises on departure. Makegood obligations can be as simple as moving your furniture out of the premises and giving it a fresh coat of paint or as significant as returning the premises to a bare shell which means removing all fixtures and fittings, restoring all surfaces to their original condition (for example painting or removing flooring that you have installed), repairing any damage made by the removal of your fixtures and fittings (for example patching walls or floors if you have removed things like partitions) and more. Completing a makegood can be an expensive task so you should plan ahead so the cost doesn’t take you by surprise.

• Most commercial or retail leases will require you to provide evidence of public liability insurance and other insurance (for example plate glass) before you can take occupation of the premises. Insurance policies can be obtained quite quickly with the right broker however you should start a conversation regarding insurance before the commencement date of the lease so there is no delay in getting into the premises.

• Most leases require some form of security. Commonly this is a security deposit in the form of an actual payment of monies to the landlord or a bank guarantee. The amount of the security deposit or bank guarantee is usually expressed as a sum equal to a certain number of months rent. For example, “A security deposit or bank guarantee equivalent to three months rent”. You either need to have available cash to pay the security deposit or you need to contact your bank to arrange a bank guarantee. A bank guarantee can take a week or two to organise, sometimes more depending on the structure of the guarantee. The bank will want some form of security to provide the bank guarantee for example a deposit of cash or other security (like your owner-occupied

home). Again, you should start to think about how you are going to provide your security well before the commencement date of the lease.

• This seems like an obvious one – but you need to have signed your lease before you can take occupation of your new premises. Sometimes there is only a short period of time between agreeing to lease a new premises and the commencement date starting. As soon as you enter into negotiations to rent a premises you should contact your lawyer as the most prudent course of action is to obtain advice about the lease and have your lawyer negotiate or clarify any terms of the lease as necessary.

• Signage – if you are planning on installing new signage at your new premises, you usually need permission from the landlord and in some cases might need development consent (by submitting a development application or obtaining a complying development certificate). Again, these are matters that require planning and cannot be done overnight. You should communicate with the landlord about the type of signage you want to install and speak to a planning consultant or your lawyer about whether your signage requires some form of consent from local council or other authority.

• In a similar vein to above, if you are planning on doing any fitout works like installing new partitioning, building a mezzanine, constructing an internal office, installing a kitchen, or anything of that nature, you usually need the consent of the landlord. The landlord will usually want to see plans and specifications for the works you wish to do.

• Communicating your move – if you have been in your current premises for a long period of time and your clients or customers have become used to your existing location, you should communicate that you are moving to them in advance where possible to prevent frustration from clients or customers who try to find you at your old premises because they did not know you moved.

• It can also be helpful to have some overlap between the end of your existing lease and the start of your new lease so you do not need to completely relocate your office in one fell swoop.

Preparation is the key.

One meal at a time: The impact of Mama Lana’s

It’s a Thursday night, and that means it’s bangers and mash at Mama Lana’s Community Foundation.

Steam curls from takeaway containers as Sue stocks the collapsible serving crates with practiced ease. Two sausages nestled in thick gravy, scoops of mash so smooth they could be mistaken for ice cream, and a hearty spoonful of peas – each portion checked, straightened, adjusted with the precision of someone who has done this a hundred times before. Around her, the courtyard begins to fill with the quiet choreography of preparation.

The mechanical heartbeat of the outdoor fridge pulses in the background.

One volunteer arranges a row of multigrain sandwiches – vegemite, devon and tomato sauce, cheese and pickles – all tucked neatly into Ziploc bags.

Another slips a child-sized Bulldogs jersey onto a coat hanger for the donated clothing rack. Sue steps back to take in the layout and gestures to the crates filled with frozen pizza, bottles of milk and an assortment of other randomly collected goods.

“Anything extra we’ve got, we offer,” she says to me.

There is a crunch of feet on gravel as the first patron approaches – a man in a faded blue polo shirt, a green Woolies bag clutched in his hand.

“How many meals do you need?” she asks.

“Just one,” he replies.

Since 2013, Mama Lana’s Community Foundation has been growing as a lifeline for Penrith’s most vulnerable. What began as a mission by Lana and Roger Borg to feed local firefighters combatting bushfires in the Blue Mountains developed into a grassroots organisation, now serving more than 1,800 meals a week to individuals and families struggling with food insecurity.

Sue is at the heart of this work as the administration coordinator and has supported Lana for 11 years by keeping daily operations on track.

From overseeing meal delivery to managing donations and coordinating community outreach, Sue plays a central role in maintaining the calm and order behind the scenes. The charity operates from an ageing white weatherboard house on Woodriff Street, tucked directly across from the bustling Nepean Village in Penrith. Hanging from the green gate is a weathered sign, its bold lettering reading: No Alcohol Premise.

Inside is a supply room, where two walls are lined with shelves that bow slightly under the weight of their cargo. One side holds cardboard boxes stacked with takeaway containers.

Opposite, navy tubs are neatly labelled in black marker: Men’s Underwear, Women’s Socks, School Supplies, Towels.

“We spend nearly $17,000 on takeaway containers a year,” Sue says, nodding to the boxes piled on the shelves.

When Sue opens the doors to the

He steps lightly, almost as though he is unsure if he belongs, his eyes flicking across the setup before settling on the food crates. Sue glances up from tidying the bench, her expression softening into a warm smile.

pantry, shelves burst with donated bags of rice, tins of vegetables, packets of pasta and long-life milk. An entire shelf is dedicated to sandwich spreads, the unmistakable dozens of yellow Vegemite jars lining up like soldiers.

“We’ve got a volunteer who comes in every Thursday just to organise this room,” she notes.

“It’s one of the most important jobs.”

Cheerful chatter bounces off the walls as Lana Borg moves through the kitchen, tending to trays of freshly roasted potatoes. In the larger space off the kitchen, hands belonging to volunteers are busy separating loaves of supermarket bread.

Sue doesn’t pause often, but when she does, it’s with purpose – to point out a small detail, to note what needs doing, to name a gap she’s

Here, generosity isn’t a grand gesture. It’s routine. It’s the regular Tuesday donations from Baker’s Delight. A stack of blankets handed over by a woman cleaning out her linen cupboard. A young student who bakes 40 cupcakes every week, just so patrons can enjoy a sweet treat. But this consistent giving masks a harder truth. The need is constant, and it’s growing.

noticed in what they offer to the community.

“Over the years, the numbers have been steadily growing, and now we have a lot of people who are finding it really hard financially to make ends meet. We’ve always had our Centrelink recipients, our pensioners, disabled people, the homeless. Lots of domestic violence victims, newly released prisoners. But

now we’re getting more and more families coming in who just cannot financially make ends meet,” Sue said.

What Sue describes is part of a larger national crisis, where food insecurity is no longer confined to the margins. The cost-of-living has surged and with it, the line between just managing and going without has grown razor thin. According to Foodbank’s 2024 Hunger Report, more than 3.4 million Australians have experienced food insecurity over the past year.

In Western Sydney, food insecurity is a growing issue that touches not just the unemployed, but also working families, students, and retirees struggling to keep up with rising costs.

“As far as I’m concerned, shelter, food, clothing – everybody should have access to that. I don’t care what your circumstances are. It doesn’t matter – you’re a person and you deserve it,” Sue said.

The stories from Mama Lana’s are not abstract. They walk through the gates every night, often with visible wounds.

Sue stands in the courtyard, the concrete cool beneath her feet, the scent of caramelised vegetables and herbs from Lana’s upcoming Tuesday roast drifting from the kitchen. A red and green mop hangs to dry over the washing line. On the back of her shirt, the words Kindness With No Strings stretch across her shoulders.

“It’s incredibly important to have that support when, really, we shouldn’t need it. We are one of the wealthiest nations in the world. Why are companies making record profits and people are starving?” she said.

Her gaze shifts to the empty serving tables, their white sheets rippling gently in the breeze, then settles on the bare concrete between the back door and the main entrance. She exhales slowly.

“We have so many people who come here who are in probably the worst circumstances of their lives,” she pauses, then continues.

“And this is the place they know they can come and be treated nicely, not judged for what they’re going through.”

Graeme unloading the truck at Mama Lana’s.

TAILA WARD

Bailey and Lana at meal service.

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Contact Us

Administration

Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at

Services 4732 7777

Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

Monday 11 August – 7pm (Policy Review Committee Meeting)

Monday 25 August – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via

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Council Briefs

● Come along to Village Café to meet your neighbours and chat in a friendly and relaxed environment over a free barista-made coffee. Take the opportunity to connect with local support services to gain free advice on a range of topics including health and wellbeing.

Village Café is held monthly from 9.30am–11.30am on the second Thursday of every month at Wainwright Park, Kingswood; the third Thursday at Wattle Park, North St Marys; and the fourth Thursday at Wilson Park, Llandilo. See you at Village Café!

For more information visit

● Council has placed the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the St Marys Central Park project on public exhibition.

The REF outlines the works proposed for this project, likely environmental impacts, and any measures which will be implemented to mitigate these impacts.

The public exhibition period is until 11.59pm on Wednesday 20 August 2025.

You can view the REF and share your feedback online at

Or it is also available to view in-person at the following locations:

• St Marys Library, 207-209 Queen Street, St Marys

• Penrith City Council Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith

This project is funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program and Council.

Public Notices

Section 38B Roads Act 1993 –

In pursuance of the provisions of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council proposes to close the council public road listed in Schedule 1.

Part Abbotts Road Kemps Creek. The location of the

A drawing of a road junction. AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Upon closure of the road, council intends to sell the land to an adjoining land owner.

All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or , within 28 of the date of this notice.

Please contact Tara Braithwaite, Development Manager on 4732 7777 or

Local Government Act 1993

Under Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to grant a licence as detailed below.

CJP WORLD WIDE PTY LTD T/AS Cassandras on the Park Outdoor Dining

Coachman’s Park, Lot 4 DP1300752 – 129 Queen St, St Marys 5 Years

All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal.

Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or , within 28 of the date of this notice. For all enquiries: Please contact Kate McBride, on 4732 8301 or

cupboard prize

Joke Week of the

IWhy did the cane toad ask so many questions?

He was an invasive species.

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

f Australian Rules football buried a time capsule, Kevin Sheedy's bomber jacket would be the first item placed inside.

AFL's precious artefacts also include Bob Murphy's medal, Angry Anderson's grand final Valiant and a 1999 vintage can of Whiskas – as you'll discover in this collection of legendary true stories from Australia's favourite sport.

In Kevin Sheedy's Bomber Jacket, journalist Glen Humphries tells Aussie Rules’ best yarns. This book is packed with tales of betting scandals, Ned Kelly movies, an elephant on grand final day and much more – not to mention events that ended up changing the game as we know it.

Released ahead of the 2025 AFL Final Series, and perfectly timed for Father's Day, Kevin Sheedy’s Bomber Jacket, explores both

paceway winners lucky

Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender Club members can pick up a free specially numbered

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Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-

Dose Dorin of SPY

the modern era of AFL and the sport’s early days and includes 30 of Aussies Rules’ greatest stories – between and beyond the arcs –expertly told. It's perfect to pick up when your team has the bye.

Kevin Sheedy’s Bomber Jacket by Glen Humphries (Gelding Street Press $29.99) is available at BIG W and all good bookstores now.

The Weekender has three copies of Kevin Sheedy’s Bomber Jacket to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Sheedy’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, August 20 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0657, 0879, 0918.

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

The cartoon cocktail person is located at the Panthers Precinct, near the new ESQ development.

There’s no doubt that much of the reporting around the Panthers trainer incident from the weekend is agenda-driven. Independent league journos... they’re rare as hen’s teeth!

Well done to the Wallabies on their big win last weekend. It might not have meant anything as far as the series goes, but it’ll have a big impact on Australian rugby’s woes.

Following sold-out seasons in Melbourne, Broad Encounters – the trailblazers of immersive theatre in Australia – are set to seduce Sydney audiences with their most daring creation yet.

‘When Night Comes’ opens on August 22 at the Union Bond Store, a sandstone heritage gem in The Rocks, headlining and presented in partnership with Sydney Fringe Festival and The Rocks precinct. Set across multiple levels of the historic Union Bond Store, ‘When Night Comes’ is part performance, part revelry. Audiences are invited into a dreamlike world and exclusive supper club, exploring intimate spaces and encountering a cast of enigmatic characters. Each room offers a new sensation – taste, texture, sound, scent, sight – curated to delight, inspire and astound.

‘When Night Comes’ is the perfect adults only date night or evening out with friends. Encounter tantalising performances, mysterious characters and an alluring bacchanalian world, offering amusement, treats, tipples and secrets. The Weekender has two double passes to ‘When Night Comes’ on Tuesday, September 2 at 6.30pm to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender. com.au with ‘Night’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Sunday, August 24 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

MULGOA ROAD TRAFFIC SWITCH

In a major milestone for the Mulgoa Road Stage 1 project, upgrades along the western side of Mulgoa Road have now been completed between Blaikie Road and Jeanette Street, allowing work to ramp up on the eastern side.

To accommodate this, traffic has now switched over to the newly completed lanes on the western side.

While motorists will see the full benefits after work along the eastern side is completed, the newly opened section will feature a new slip lane at Wolseley Street to improve Penrith Homemaker Centre access, along with new pedestrian paths and upgraded traffic lights.

With around 40,000 vehicles using Mulgoa Road daily, this work is part of a jointly funded $290 million commitment to upgrade Mulgoa Road between Blaikie Road and Glenmore Parkway by the State and Federal Governments.

Work on the Stage 1 upgrade is expected to

Medicare stoush

McIntosh says too many still need credit card to visit doctor

EMILY CHATE

Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh has gone on the attack over Medicare.

During Question Time in Parliament last week, McIntosh asked the Minister for Health and Aging Mark Butler why Australians still needed to bring their credit card to the GP, not just their Medicare card despite a Labor promise to increase bulk billing across Australia during the election campaign earlier this year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese famously pulled out his Medicare card constantly during the election campaign, claiming it was the only card you would need to visit the doctor.

“A short walk from the Minister’s electorate office is Harbour Medical Services where a patient notice was issued on the 1st of July stating, ‘Due to increasing costs of running the practice, we must advise that the gap fee for private patients has increased. Full payment of the account on the day is required’,” McIntosh

“Isn’t it the case that Australians need their Medicare card and their credit card to get the health care they need under Labor?”

Buter told the Weekender Labor’s Medicare investments were on track, with much of the commitment coming into effect in November.

“We know too many Australians are paying too much out of pocket when they go to the doctor because of the Liberals’ cuts to Medicare,” Butler said.

“That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is making the single largest investment in Medicare

since its creation. Our $8.5 billion investment into Medicare will deliver an additional 18 million bulk billed GP visits each year, hundreds of nursing scholarships, and thousands more doctors in the largest GP training program ever.

“On November 1 2025 we will expand bulk billing incentives to all Australians and create an additional new incentive payment for practices that bulk bill every patient.

“This will mean nine out of 10 GP visits will be bulk billed by 2030, boosting the number of fully bulk billed practices to

around 4,800 nationally – triple the current number.

“Already doctors around the country are making the choice to switch their practice to fully bulk billed clinics.

“We know this investment will work, because it has already worked for the patients the incentive already applies to – pensioners, concession cardholders, and families with kids.

“When they went to the GP last year, more than nine out of 10 GP visits were bulk billed for them.”

McIntosh posed the same question over Medicare to Albanese, who said the Opposition matched Labor’s commitment the same day they made it in March.

“I encourage the opposition, over the next three years, to double down and keep digging when it comes to Medicare and to keep criticising the policy that they themselves adopted on that very day – on that very day!” Albanese said.

Do you need to pay to visit your doctor? Tell us your experience: news@westernweekender.com. au.

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Melissa McIntosh. Anthony Albanese.

What the roadwork looked like in November last year. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Making Penrith the centre of the wrestling universe

ALLY HALL

Wrestle Strong Dojo at Werrington Downs has had fans in a chokehold since it began running live shows in 2019 after opening its doors in 2018.

Dojo owner and trainer Lisa Oxford brings a wealth

‘Amy Action’ seems like an odd name for a woman named Lisa to select, but there’s a very good reason for the name change.

“There was another girl called Lisa that started training three months before me. She lasted about three months while I lasted about 14 years,” Oxford joked.

of knowledge to her student warriors after working as a wrestler in the 90s and 2000s.

“I wrestled for around 14 years under the name Amy Action, and my husband is in his 29th year of wrestling,” Oxford stated.

“His name is Dean Draven, and he’s actually one of the first people I taught.”

“So, the name Lisa was gone, and ‘A’ was the first letter of the alphabet. It wasn’t overthought, it was just about having something that was easy to remember and easy for the audience to chant. That’s an important part of picking a wrestling name.”

Oxford was also the first woman in Australia to

wrestle in the coveted men’s division.

“I did work in the men’s division as a male masked wrestler called Kombat Karl for a number of years as well,” Oxford explained.

“I wore one of those chest plates to flatten my chest and make my shoulders look a bit bigger, I wore several layers of clothes over the top of that, and I was fully masked.”

With this extensive experience and a plethora of titles under her belt, it’s not surprising that local wrestlers want Oxford in their corner.

“I have people that travel quite a distance to come to training,” Oxford said.

“By training with me, they can then go on to perform in front of audiences.”

Wrestle Strong Dojo has shows across NSW, and here in Penrith, the Gaels Club acts as home ground.

“We have regular fans who get to know the wrestlers and have their favourites, and with Penrith being our home base, we tend to run the soap opera story,” she said.

The next show at Penrith Gaels is on August 24.

More volunteers needed as fire season approaches

Comradery and community service go hand-in-hand at Regentville RFS, and the brigade is looking to recruit more mates.

Volunteers will host two information sessions over the next week, including a drop-in session on August 9 from 1pm to 5pm, and a session on August 12 at 6pm.

Community Liaison Coordinator Ron Vaughan said this comes ahead of RFS Get Ready Weekend on September 20, which encourages NSW residents to prepare for bushfire season.

“Regentville will have a massive display of fire trucks, fire boats, a big barbecue, and SES boats and trucks,” Vaughan described.

“Kids can use a real fire hose, and we’ve got a steering wheel set up in the back of the fire truck so when kids climb up into the truck, they can pretend to be steering it.

“Fire Rescue will be cutting a car and showing how they get into a vehicle when there’s been an accident, and best of all, we’re going to have the RFS helicopter

and a pilot who will show off the controls and answer questions.”

The Regentville RFS is a strong brigade according to the volunteer, and there’s a place for everyone within the team.

“Myself, I’m 74, and I do more of the liaising and I come up with ideas,” Vaughan said as an example.

“There are jobs for everybody at the RFS – it’s not all fighting fires.”

Members also get a say in

their level of involvement.

“Members are asked to come along to training on a Tuesday night and provide their availability. From there, the captain can allocate people to whatever fires turn up,” Vaughan stated. If you’re interested in joining the brigade, attend an upcoming information session at 8-20 Jeanette Street, Regentville, and keep an eye out for more details about RFS Get Ready Weekend.

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Freya Fury bomb. Photo: Wrestle Strong Dojo.

Ron showing Brodie the ropes. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

Performing arts comp still strong

The City of Penrith Eisteddfod Society are celebrating 40 years of music, speech and drama.

Society President Sari Erasmus-Hickey said the group has been providing opportunities for talented students since 1985, and this year’s Eisteddfod schedule shows there’s no intention of slowing down.

“Eisteddfod Societies are all over the world. It is a performing arts competition,” Erasmus-Hickey stated.

The competition covers speech and drama, strings and guitars, senior vocal, junior vocal, schools choral, schools instrumental, brass and wood wind, pianoforte, and a special presentation.

“Our first competition will be on August 16,” Erasmus-Hickey started.

“We will convene in the Henry Lawson Theatre at the Henry Sports Club where speech and drama students will perform in front of an audience and an adjudicator who writes short reports on the performances. Then we award first, second and third.”

Other venues involved in the competition include Penrith Selective High School, Penrith Baptist Church, and Penrith South Public School.

Also involved will be the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, which will host the return of a Penrith Eisteddfod legend.

“Many years ago, a boy named Simon Tedeschi entered the Penrith Eisteddfod and won the Penrith Eisteddfod Championship. He is now a well-known Australian concert pianist,” Erasmus-Hickey told the Weekender

“He will perform on October 18 with our other prize winners. That’s a great feat for us to bring a concert pianist of that caliber to Penrith.”

See the full program of events on the Penrith Eisteddfod website, and purchase tickets for the final celebration online now at www.thejoan.com.au/whats-on/penrith-eisteddfod-2025.

Tough new laws to crack down on the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vaping goods have been introduced to parliament, with new penalties announced for retailers selling without a licence.

The NSW Government announced last week it would bring in some of the toughest penalties in the country for the sale and commercial possession of illicit tobacco and will grant substantial powers for inspectors to close premises found to be in breach of the new rules.

The new laws include a new offence for the commercial possession of illicit tobacco, with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and seven years’ imprisonment.

Additional laws have also been amended.

GRANTS TO TACKLE VIOLENCE ISSUES

The State Government will introduce a new grant program to support initiatives that prevent gender-based violence.

Local domestic and family violence committees and networks will be able to apply for funding of between $2,500 and $5000 for initiatives that raise awareness and engage local communities to address violence.

“This grant program will support practical, community-led initiatives that promote respect, equality, and safety,” said State Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown.

Visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-andfunding/16-days-of-activism-2025 for more information.

ALLY HALL

Sari Erasmus-Hickey.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Dedicated to the magic

The Penrith Museum of Printing is an incredible journey back in time, and a real

Huddled just within the gates of Penrith Paceway off Ransley Street is the Penrith Museum of Printing – a time capsule for the world of print media and a reminder that ‘wood and lead ain’t dead’.

Within what looks like a large garden shed, I was met by dedicated volunteers Bob and John for my tour

of the working museum, which was set up as a 1940s print shop.

Every wall was lined with equipment from before my time. The wooden, steel and metal machinery was lit by a skylight in the centre of the ceiling and emanated the nostalgic scent of a well-loved book – ageing wood and old paper.

My tour guides were chipper fellows with backgrounds in the printing industry. John started at

the Gazette at Windsor in 1965 as a hand and machine compositor, and Bob started at Cumberland Newspapers.

“I was at the Gazette until Rural Press bought us out in 1983, and then we poached Bob from Cumberland Newspapers as a production

manager,” John reminisced.

“From there, we built that factory up at North Richmond on the hill –which is still there – and we worked there for the rest of our careers.”

The pair of volunteers weren’t what I expected. They were cheeky, entertaining, knowledgeable, and

addictingly passionate about the living museum. At no point during the tour did I find myself feeling bored – partly because the printing presses were so fascinating and I could interact with them, and partly because Bob and John’s enthusiasm was utterly contagious.

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Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Co-designing playspaces with next generation

Some of our City’s young leaders are about to embark on an exciting journey that will see them design a new playspace for their community.

Since 2014, the Penrith Mayoral Challenge has invited students to collaborate with Penrith City Council and get handson experience as they learn about civic engagement, local government and the decision-making process.

Participants harness their creativity in workshops, connect with the environment and, most importantly, build their sense of community pride as they contribute to a significant local project. Council benefits from the perspectives of young people, in building playspaces that reflect the aspirations of specific communities.

This month, Council staff will work with 30 Year 7 students from Cambridge Park High School to co-design the Allsopp and Patterson Playground in Cambridge Park, combining community feedback with their unique ideas to develop a fun and inclusive playspace concept that will be brought to life.

This project has been funded through the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Program, with a total budget of $400,000.

The 2024 project saw Year 5 and 6

Reserve. Construction will start later this year and is due to open in early 2026. The playspace design includes equipment for swinging, climbing, sliding, and jumping. There will also be a drinking fountain, an accessible picnic shelter, new seating with companion spaces for prams or wheelchairs, more trees and new shade structures.

Other playspaces that have been delivered recently through the project include Illawong Avenue Reserve in Kingswood Park and Wilson Park at Llandilo.

It’s a wonderful, full-circle moment when we invite students to officially open the playspace to the community.

I love seeing the smiles on their faces as they feel pride and enjoy the tangible results of their hard work and clever ideas.

This project aligns with Council’s long-term commitment to maintaining more than 150 playspaces across the City through our Sport and Recreation Strategy.

Visit penrith.city/playspaces to find out more.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor

of Penrith

Inside the incredible museum. Photo: Maddie Dantier.

John, Ally and Bob.

Photo: Maddie Dantier.

ALLY HALL

students from St Marys South Public School design a playspace for Monfarville

of print media

The first stop on the tour was the foyer, which featured a handcrafted copper mural of the birth of print. It showcased the invention of moveable type around 1439 by Johannes Gutenberg – the father of printing.

The mural served as a reminder of the important role Gutenberg played in the printing revolution, and how vital the mass production of the written word was for civiliza tion’s progression.

After taking that in, I was escorted over to the type cases. These large wooden cabinets featured thin drawers/trays, each filled with lead letters. It was here that I learned capital letters were traditionally kept in the upper case, and non-capital letters were tradi tionally kept in the lower case. Hence the terms uppercase and lowercase.

I also learned how to painstakingly use these fiddly lead letters to write my name. The process gave me a new appreciation for my computer and keyboard where I can tap out the name ‘Ally

Hall’ in one second, compared to the two minutes I spent looking for the correct letters and the space bar in the type case.

The next stop was a replica of Gutenberg’s 1700s Common Press, which dominated the print media sphere for 300 years.

Standing tall next to the Common Press was the 1841 Columbian

Letterpress. This green and gold machine was my favourite, and it’s been on quite a journey. It was transported to Sydney from the UK on a ship, then transported across the Blue Mountains via a bullock cart to Carcour. It printed the Carcour

Chronicle from 1872 to 1939 and laid rusting until it was restored by Fairfax in 1976.

Other equipment my tour guides demonstrated included the 1864 Albion Letterpress, the 1900s Linotype, the 1945 Intertype, the 1880s Wharfedale Stop Cylinder Press, and the 1936 Heidelberg Cylinder Letterpress.

These names would likely sound like nonsense to most readers – so I implore you to visit the museum and watch as volunteers demonstrate how the presses work and invite you to interact with them.

And if you like it, you can try your hand at volunteering!

“We’re always looking for volun-

teers,” Bob started.

“Young volunteers would be good, because we’re going to get to the stage where we’re too old. If we want to keep this place going – which we do – we need younger people coming through,” John continued.

“The idea is to preserve the history and preserve this as a living museum. We don’t want it to turn into a static display,” Bob picked back up.

“If the Powerhouse got a hold of it, they’d stick it all in a basement and never see it work again. So, we’re after young enthusiastic volunteers to help preserve the past for the future.”

“That’s our motto – we preserve the past for the future,” John concluded.

Bob and Ally at the 1864 Albion Letterpress. Photo: Maddie Dantier.

Bob and Ally. Photo: Maddie Dantier.

Δ Refresh for popular pub: One of western Sydney’s greatest pubs is entering an exciting new chapter with the Carousel Inn undergoing a multi-million-dollar transformation ahead of its relaunch in September to The Woodstock. With a new name, transformed experience and a major expansion of its spaces and offering, The Woodstock is being completely rebuilt to create a one-stop, thriving, food, beverage and entertainment destination. At the heart of it all will be a warm, family-friendly bistro, built around food with generosity, flavour, friendly service and value for money. Mediterranean-inspired pub classics will headline the menu, including woodfired pizzas, grilled meats and share dishes. The Woodstock will be a must-visit for families, with a large, dedicated kids play area featuring a slippery dip, a ping pong table, a climbing wall and swings ensuring The Woodstock will become the go-to for

everything from casual family dinners to special occasions suitable for all ages. Outside, the Garden Bar will provide a bright and leafy oasis perfect for weekend catch-ups, after-work drinks, lunch with workmates and relaxed group gatherings. With room to move and plenty of atmosphere, it will offer the best of indoor-outdoor pub culture in the west, backed by classic drinks, a rotating cocktail list, and a fun menu of house-made slushies. Sport lovers will flock to the Sports Bar which boasts multiple TV screens and plenty of high-top seating options for beers and bar snacks. There will also be a lounge area behind the sports bar for more relaxed seating and sport viewing entertainment with a fireplace. The Woodstock in Rooty Hill will open its doors late September with a full week of launch celebrations and events. Sign up to stay up to date at www.woodstock-hotel.com. au.

Δ Corny for tea: Gong cha Australia has announced the return of the Sweet Corn series, adding the new Sweet Corn Matcha to the line-up. First introduced in Vietnam, the Sweet Corn Matcha infuses the creamy sweetness of corn with the earthy richness of matcha. The new release builds on the hype of the 2024 Sweet Corn Series, which featured Sweet Corn Milk Tea with Pearls and Sweet Corn Smoothies with White Pearls. The new drinks will be offered at participating Gong cha stores nationwide for a limited time only.

KFC drop

cravings

with the launch of the Zinger

this week. The ultimate fusion of flavour and freshness in a no forks given feed – this isn’t just any kebab, it’s a fingerlickin’ good taste explosion that promises to redefine your lunch, dinner or late-night cravings.

discover. Look out for them soon.

Δ Got some Source? Share your news about new menus, store openings and more at news@westernweekender.com.au.

•

•

• MEGALONG CREEK ESTATE

• MANSFIELD WINES

• ORANGE MOUNTAIN WINES

• ZINGA WINES

• DRYRIDGE AND MANY MORE

Δ

Zinger Kebab: KFC has late night

sorted

Kebab

Δ Rum drop: The Great Australian Rum Co is dropping its King Brown range, led by Australian music icon Shannon Noll. It includes Gold Rum, White Rum and Spiced Rum. Launching in late 2025, Great Australian Rum Co. aims to set a new standard in premium Australian spirits. From connoisseurs to firsttime sippers, there’s something in every bottle to

The photograph is believed to have been taken in either 1954 or 1955.

While Telephone Exchanges like this are now long gone, they were once a vital part of any local community.

This photograph shows staff of the Penrith Telephone Exchange, which was located on High Street in Penrith.

Left to right are Lorelle Hudson (standing), Mavis Cooper, Margaret Hitchings, Marie Steinbeck, Joan Hogan, Coral Nesbit and Mavis Ives.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

Why Hearing Assessments Matter in Stroke Rehabilitation

While hearing loss is increasingly discussed in relation to dementia, far less attention is given to how it a ects stroke survivors—despite the signi cant overlap Stroke and hearing loss o en coexist, yet this connection remains underrecognised in both clinical care and public awareness.

ere are many well-known risk factors for stroke, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, alongside lifestyle factors. However, what happens a er a stroke, particularly in terms of sensor y and cognitive function deser ves equal focus

Dr Kelly Miles, Research Audiologist at Macquarie University and a stroke survivor herself, highlights that hearing loss is not only more common in people who have had a stroke, but it is o en more severe. Many stroke sur vivors struggle to follow conversations,

especially in noisy environments. is di culty arises from a combination of factors: peripheral hearing loss, auditory processing de cits, and cognitive changes such as reduced attention and slower mental processing.

e result? Daily communication can become exhausting, and social interactions can feel overwhelming. is o en may lead to frustration, social withdrawal, and a reduced ability to manage everyday tasks. Alarmingly, over half of stroke survivors, aged 61 to 80 experience b oth hearing loss and auditory processing di culties.

To properly support stroke sur vivors, Dr Kelly Miles asserts that hearing care should be integrated into stroke rehabilitation by:

Expanding hearing assessments to include speech-in-nois e and auditor y processing testing.

Customising interventions for hearing loss by considering multiple solutions such as hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and environmental modi cations.

As our population ages, the number of people a ected by both stroke and hearing loss will ris e. Recognising and addressing this dual burden is essential. Supporting hearing health in stroke survivors can improve communication, reduce isolation, and play a critical role in restoring quality of life.

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INCREASING ENGAGEMENT

One of the hardest things to overcome when it comes to social media, is being able to talk on camera and be comfortable in doing so. Most wouldn’t feel comfortable at first (this is normal), but it can be crucial to growing your brand. Using yourself on camera in social media videos offers several key benefits, both for personal branding and engagement. Here are some of the primary advantages:

1. Authenticity and relatability: When viewers see you on camera, it humanises your content. They can connect with you on a personal level, which builds trust and a stronger connection. People are more likely to engage with someone they feel they know and relate to. This is one of the great advantages to social media marketing, you can get to know someone before actually meeting them!

2. Builds personal brand:

Being on camera allows you to showcase your personality, values and expertise. This helps you establish a unique identity and strengthens your personal brand, making you memorable to your audience.

3. Engagement and interaction: Videos with faces tend to attract more attention and engagement than those without. Viewers are more likely to comment, share and interact with content that includes a personal touch. This allows you to interact with your audience and find out what they want to see. Remember, platforms like Instagram and TikTok prioritise videos with higher engagement, which gives you a better chance of growing online.

4. Improved communication: It’s easier to communicate your personality and intent when your audience

The Experts

can see you speaking, compared to just reading text or looking at static images. Let them get to know you and your story behind the business.

5. Increased trust and credibility: People tend to trust those they can see and hear. When you put yourself on camera, it can boost your credibility and make people more likely to follow, share or purchase.

6. Emotional connection: Videos that feature you can evoke emotions through tone, facial expressions and personal storytelling. This emotional connection can be powerful.

Western Weekender

Blaize Talagi.

Photo: NRL Photos.

Ithe finalword

’ve read the messages.

Seen the Tweets.

And yet I’m going to dust myself off and go again.

My prediction of Penrith beating Gold Coast by 40 points last Saturday appeared on track at half-time before a bizarre series of events saw Ivan Cleary’s side almost lose the match, culminating with an incredible Golden Point win.

So, Penrith didn’t win by 40. They should have. There is no doubt the second half collapse would concern Cleary, but this wild season is delivering the unexpected everywhere you turn.

Despite my slight red face after my prediction last weekend, I’m foolish enough to believe Penrith will beat Newcastle pretty handsomely on Friday night.

That’s despite what happened in Bathurst back in May, when the Knights downed the Panthers 25-6.

It was supposed to be the final nail in Penrith’s season but it ended up sparking a revival, with Penrith not losing since – a winning run that now extends into eight matches.

That loss in Bathurst was important. It saw some of Penrith’s growing leaders stand taller, determined to correct the course. And it was the wake-up call the defending champions needed.

As boxes have been ticked since, Penrith would have had one eye on this game – the opportunity to get one back on the Knights, who left them embarrassed in front of their regional fans at Carrington Park.

The Knights have been poor over the last month. A 32-14 loss to the Storm, followed by that heartbreaker against the Warriors and then pretty disappointing against Canberra in their last start, losing 44-18.

I’m not sure how motivated the Knights will be over this final period of the competition.

The Finals are gone, Adam O’Brien is likely finished as coach and injuries have had a significant impact on the side’s ability to build any momentum or consistency through the year.

The Knights have been forced to make more tackles than any other side in the competition this year. They just can’t control the momentum, can’t dig into matches and get enough ball to have a decent crack. They spend all their time defending and then have little to offer in attack. And of course, their halves crisis still hasn’t been solved.

Newcastle’s handling errors are right up there with the worst in the competition.

All of this suits Penrith’s style of play perfectly. The opportunity to strangle an opposition. The chance to kick their opponents to death.

All of that while Penrith’s younger rising stars are finding their feet at the right time of the season.

And after a slow start, Blaize Talagi is really finding his combination with Nathan Cleary and is starting to light up the field – just as coach Cleary knew he eventually would, as he stayed patient in that opening period.

And who would have thought that Tom Jenkins would be such a dynamic try scorer this season?

There’s every chance Penrith could be playing for a top four position here, pending other results across the weekend. With so much to play for, Penrith will win and win big.

And so with the risk of more egg being thrown at my face, I’m doubling down – the Panthers will put the cleaners through the Knights in this one, and confirm their threat to this Premiership.

Tip: Panthers by 24.

Casey McLean’s future is so bright that he could become one of the greats if the trajectory continues, and he remains injury-free.

Graphic by Kacey Wilson

TROY DODDS FRIDAY, AUGUST 8 | 6.00PM | MCDONALD JONES STADIUM | REFEREE: WYATT RAYMOND | BUNKER: ASHLEY KLEIN

panther rumblings

TRAINER IN EYE OF THE STORM

! Trainer in hot water: Confusion over an interchange and how Penrith would respond to the Titans taking the lead in their match last Saturday was the catalyst for trainer Corey Bocking’s mishap that has been the talk of

notice. Also of concern is just how some of the information is finding its way to journalists and talking heads, who are then using it as bullets in criticism of Penrith.

! Loudest voices nowhere to be seen: There’s been a lot of criticism of the Panthers this week by high profile veteran journalists. And yet the loudest voices were nowhere to be seen when Ivan Cleary fronted the media on Wednesday, happy to answer questions.

! We’ve been here before: Some of the league journos claiming they’ve never seen an incident like the one involving the Penrith trainer last weekend must have short memories. It was only three years ago that Parramatta were fined $5,000 after a trainer ran in front of the goalposts while Nathan Cleary attempted a sideline conversion at BlueBet Stadium.

! Wedding bells in Cleary household: Congratulations to Indi Cleary, the sister of Panthers champion halfback Nathan, who became engaged to her partner Aden in New Zealand last weekend. The pair have been dating for several years now, and Aden popped the question after a couple of trips to York Jewellers in Penrith to finalise the bling.

! Engagement season: Indi Cleary was not the only Panther-related engagement recently. Former Pantherette and ‘Gogglebox’ star Vestal Delpechitra confirmed her engagement to partner Ben.

! Kacey’s Bunker gaffe: The NRL has admitted the Titans should have been awarded a penalty try when Phillip Sami was hit high by Brian To’o in last Saturday’s match on the Gold Coast. It was actually a much more controversial incident than the trainer debacle but hasn’t got the same headlines. Bunker official Kacey Badger has been dumped for this weekend after somehow missing the hit.

! Spotted: Panthers hooker Mitch Kenny and centre Izack Tago at the pro-Palestine march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge last Sunday.

Delivered through an Intensive Zoom and Practical Workshop model, the program gives athletes the flexibility to complete their qualifications during the season or in the off-season – an invaluable option for players planning their future beyond the game.

! Titans Together: It was great to see the Panthers so willing to support Gold Coast’s ‘Titans Together’ community initiative at last Saturday’s game. ‘Titans Together’ actively support local schools, clubs, charities and community organisations through various programs, appearances and donations. The Panthers were more than happy to do their bit as part of various game day activations, including the run-out.

! TV increase: More people are watching the Panthers on TV this year than last. Gross Panthers viewership is up 18 per cent year-onyear. Two extra free-to-air matches have driven the uplift.

! Not just footy: Jack Cole, Liam Henry, Billy Scott and Harry Hassett have officially graduated with their Certificate III in Fitness through One Wellbeing & One Training.

! Sydney blackout: The NRL is facing the prospect of only having one Finals match in Sydney on the opening weekend of the Finals – and there’s the possibility of no games at all depending on how the ladder works out. As it stands Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane would all host Finals games in week one, with Penrith the only Sydney team to host a match. As it stands only three Sydney teams are in the top eight, so Sydney will likely host only a couple of games in September.

! Spill the tea: Got some news? Heard some goss? Spotted a player out and about? I don’t keep secrets but I do protect my sources. Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

Corey Bocking.

DISTRACTION NOT AN ISSUE FOR PANTHERS THIS WEEK

Panthers forward Luke Garner says he hasn’t let the dramas of the past week affect him.

With Penrith being smashed from pillar to post by the media and public following the Corey Bocking / Jayden Campbell incident last Saturday, the two-time Premiership winner says he’s able to block out all that outside noise and continue to focus on the job at hand.

“I guess it doesn’t directly affect me. I wasn’t the person in the incident, and I don’t have to pay the fine or serve the ban,” Garner told Extra Time

“Obviously, I don’t agree with it. It was an honest mistake from ‘Bockers’, which is sad because it’s not the type of person he is, but life moves on.”

While other players might struggle to handle the negative attention surrounding the club, Garner – a 120 NRL game veteran – said it’s water off a duck’s back for him these days.

“That stuff doesn’t affect me to be honest. Maybe when I was younger it might have affected me, but I don’t really care anymore,” he said.

“Unfortunately, that’s just the way the media does things, so I know what it’s like, and it’s water off a duck’s back, really.”

Garner was in the headlines himself in recent weeks after reports emerged he was looking to get out of his final year of his contract at Penrith to secure his longterm future elsewhere.

However, those rumours were put to bed late last month when it was confirmed by the club that the former Tiger would see out his deal, which expires at the end of 2026.

“I’m here at least for next year,” Garner confirmed.

“I’m glad that’s all done. I never wanted it to be out there and in the media. I hate all that speculation and I’m glad it’s done

now. It’s been enjoyable here and I look forward to hopefully this year and next year win another couple of Grand Finals.”

The Panthers could land in the top four by the end of Round 23 if they manage to beat the Newcastle Knights on Friday at McDonald Jones Stadium and other results go their way.

The 29-year-old said, like the dangerous Titans in last Saturday’s second half, he’s wary of the Knights and what they can do to teams that aren’t switched on for 80 minutes.

“The Knights always turn up against us. Every team turns up against us, but especially the Knights,” Garner said.

“They’re a great team too and have some really good, classy, world calibre players. It won’t be an easy game again. We’re aware of that and hopefully the Titans’ second half gave us the kick up the ass that we needed.”

Luke Garner in Penrith’s Indigenous jersey this week.

Luke Garner chats to Nathan Taylor.

NATHAN TAYLOR

CLEARY OPENS UP ON TRAINER DEBACLE

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has thrown his support behind embattled trainer Corey Bocking following last weekend’s well-publicised incident involving Gold Coast Titans goal-kicker Jayden Campbell.

On Monday, the NRL came down hard on the Panthers – fining the club a whopping $50,000 while Bocking received a five-match suspension for running in front of Campbell as he lined up a sideline conversion attempt.

Speaking for the first time since last Saturday afternoon’s thrilling win on the Gold Coast, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said the NRL’s sanctions were “harsh” and that Bocking had been struggling mentally with the recent attention.

“I think the punishment is pretty heavy, particularly for Corey. I think his suspension is the biggest of anyone in the NRL this year. I think it’s harsh... his penalty is based on some other things (previous club trainer indiscretions) – there’s no justice system in the world that does that… I think it’s a little harsh,” Cleary said.

“He’s (Corey) struggling and has been right from the time it happened. We kind of try to temper that with banter, which he takes in good nature, but he’s struggling.

“He cares about his job and understands that he made a mistake, and it’s become a big deal. The last thing he would want is any excess attention. You can see clearly that he was embarrassed and apologised. I think it’s a bit unfair on him.”

Following last Saturday’s game, Cleary admitted to the media that he never saw the Bocking incident when it happened but took full blame for how it transpired.

“The last time I spoke publicly was after the game where I hadn’t seen the incident and since I’ve seen it, it hasn’t changed my view, it was clearly a mistake,” Cleary said.

“It was the first time in four years that Corey has run that line because his job is to stay with the team after the goal has been kicked or missed.

“The only reason he ran that line was because I changed a sub. If anyone is to blame, it’s me. That’s the truth.”

The entire rugby league community has been divided over the incident, with the story still making headlines five days after it occurred.

Cleary said he can’t control how the public view things, but that his focus is on the wellbeing of Bocking who won’t be part of game day until week one of the NRL Finals.

“I can’t control what people say, I just care about Corey and where he stands in all of this. I stand up for all of our staff. They are just out there doing their best just like players, officials,

referees – we all make mistakes,” Cleary said.

“[On game day] he can’t go in the sheds, he can’t be on the bench – anything. He’s effectively ostracised from the team. He can be at training, but game day nothing. He can sit in the stands, I think.”

Meanwhile, the Bocking incident wasn’t the

only drama Cleary has had to deal with this week. During the first half of the Titans clash, Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo suffered a shoulder subluxation, which will see him miss this Friday night’s match against Newcastle.

While Cleary said the injury isn’t overly bad, he will give Yeo plenty of time to recover ahead of another busy Finals period.

“He’s alright. There’s a little bit of concern with the shoulder, but we’ll give him as much time as he needs and we’re very confident he’ll be back, but I don’t know when,” Cleary said.

“It was a sublux, so it didn’t come right out. The fact that he could keep playing was a really good sign. He pulled up a little bit sore at halftime and after the game. He won’t be playing this week, and we’ll take it as it comes.”

The last time the Panthers faced the Knights, they were clobbered in Bathurst. More than two months later, the Premiers are chasing win number nine on the trot and a spot in the coveted top four.

Cleary said his side has taken plenty of lessons out of last weekend’s second half collapse against the Titans and he doesn’t expect any complacency to creep in this Friday.

“It doesn’t take much to lose your way,” he told Extra Time

“I don’t know whether it was complacency in the second half, we were just sloppy coming out after halftime. Maybe we thought we were going better than we were.

“The Titans were definitely playing well and then they just got the jump on us and one thing led to another. There will be no dramas with complacency this week.”

Trainer Corey Bocking. Photo: NRL Photos.

Isaah Yeo is out this week due to a shoulder problem. Photo: NRL Photos.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary.

footy club

Missed last week’s results? Here’s a rundown of what happened in key

Panthers games . . .

Tries: B Talagi 2, T Jenkins, D Edwards, C McLean

Goals: N Cleary 4/4, 1 2pt FG

Tries: P Sami 2, J Campbell, B Kelly, S Verrills Goals: J Campbell 3/5

Tries: Z Lamont 2, H Armstrong, B Moran, T Patea, T Bunting, H Bell, Z Clarke, S Faeamani, J Liddiard.

Goals: 5/10

Tries: Goals:

Tries: P Knapp 2, J Lenaz, E Carlisle, K Takairangi, T Amiatu, C Peadon.

Goals: E Carlisle 2/7

Tries: J Tui Goals:

Penrith

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

BYE: TIGERS

panther memories

John Peard played almost 200 first grade games and represented both NSW and Australia, so his arrival as coach of Penrith in 1982 was seen as a pivotal moment in the club’s history.

Peard was a fitness fanatic, and he spent plenty of time whipping what was at times an errant Panthers side into shape.

After finding his feet in 1982, the 1983 season started promising but would eventually fall into a heap – largely around injuries, in particular to key playmakers. Penrith’s defensive record was shocking.

Peard would not survive, cut at the end of the 1983 season. He would not coach in first grade again, though did coach NSW Country and the Blues in 1988.

Wrong timing likely impacted Peard’s success at the club. He was a couple of years too early – especially given an emerging talent by the name of Greg Alexander would explode onto the scene in the years that followed his tenure.

In the end, Peard coached Penrith 52 times for 16 wins, 35 losses and a draw.

Peard would suffer a stroke in 2002, but recover well. He is 80-years-old.

footy

CLEARY NOT GAME’S ONLY HERO

with Peter Lang

With the clock ticking down and Penrith behind by two points with 90 seconds to go,

Nathan Cleary, with ice in his veins, received a long pass from hooker

Mitch Kenny to nail a 42-metre two-point field goal which tied the game up at 26-all.

“Nat’s (Nathan Cleary) field goal was unbelievable,” said Panthers coach Ivan Cleary after the team’s 30-26 victory over the Titans.

“But that was a great pass by Mitch Kenny,” he added.

“I think when he looked up, he didn’t realise how far away [Nathan] was and it was just a great call on the spot.”

Nathan also complimented the 20-metre pass from Kenny.

“I thought should I be doing this,” said Cleary.

“Then I called out to Kenny and he threw a good pass to me, luckily, I struck it pretty well.”

While Cleary has been lauded for his ice-cool two-point field goal, and rightly so, Mitch Kenny’s ability to also remain composed under pressure and throw the ball so sweetly to his co-captain also deserves plenty of praise.

It’s no secret that Penrith are a better football team when Mitch Kenny is in the side.

He is well respected by not only his teammates but players and

coaches from other teams as well.

He has come such a long way since his first-grade debut against the Parramatta Eels in Round 11 of the 2019 season.

In 2020 he had to bide his time as an understudy for Api Koroisau. He played in only six games that year and no one could’ve predicted that he would one day captain the team and turn into a bloody good player in the process.

He would bide his time behind Koroisau for a further two seasons before becoming the club’s

number one hooker in 2023 following Koroisau’s defection to the Wests Tigers.

Many supporters used to grumble when he was named in the side back then, now only three years later, a wave of panic sweeps through Panthers supporters when his name is not in the side.

Like earlier in the year when he accepted a guilty plea to a Grade 2 Dangerous Contact charge. He missed the next two games against the Sea Eagles and Broncos and his absence was obvious.

Kenny has grown so much as a player that during last year’s offseason he was even being discussed as a possible emerging NSW Origin player.

Not only that but Ivan Cleary has even appointed Kenny as captain whenever Nathan Cleary or Isaah Yeo are unavailable for selection. Even when both co-captains are in the side, you can see Kenny taking a senior role, often barking instructions and words of inspiration to his teammates during breaks in

He was particularly disappointed with the side’s 25-6 loss to Newcastle in Round 12, a match he captained with the club missing five Origin players.

He sat in the post-match press conference, arms crossed, steam coming out of his ears.

“Yeah there was a lack of resilience there in the first half,” said Kenny when asked to comment on the loss.

“Our defence was ordinary and we just couldn’t stop the bleeding until we were 24-0 down and by then it was too late.”

Reports emerged later that Kenny had a huge say when he addressed the team after the loss and in the week at training after that match. It’s funny you know, the Panthers haven’t lost a game since.

Nathan Cleary about to take his field goal shot. Photo: NRL Photos.

PANTHERS

SHARKS

STORM PANTHERS

BRONCOS PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS

EELS

ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

WARRIORS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS DOLPHINS BULLDOGS RABBITOHS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS DRAGONS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS SEA EAGLES DRAGONS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS DOLPHINS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS

DOLPHINS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS DRAGONS

DOLPHINS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS

DOLPHINS BULLDOGS RABBITOHS COWBOYS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS DRAGONS ROOSTERS WARRIORS TITANS EELS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS DOLPHINS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS SEA EAGLES SHARKS ROOSTERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS COWBOYS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS DRAGONS DOLPHINS BULLDOGS RABBITOHS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES SHARKS ROOSTERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS COWBOYS

BRONCOS PANTHERS SEA EAGLES SHARKS ROOSTERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS COWBOYS

STORM PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS RAIDERS SHARKS DOLPHINS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS RAIDERS DRAGONS ROOSTERS BULLDOGS TITANS EELS

BRONCOS PANTHERS SEA EAGLES SHARKS ROOSTERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS COWBOYS

BRONCOS PANTHERS SEA EAGLES SHARKS ROOSTERS WARRIORS RABBITOHS COWBOYS

SHE’S PAID HER DUES

Anastacia’s success story is one that shows being unique is a gift, not a curse.

But it certainly didn’t feel that way for the pop and style icon when she was first trying to break into the industry.

“I went on a TV show, and before that platform, nobody was signing me or thought I had talent. They couldn’t see it until I went on the show and the overall response was ‘This is a star’,” Anastacia reminisced.

“Had I not gone on that show, I would have

been totally unnoticed and not given a chance to be who I wanted to be with a sound that wasn’t out there.”

Anastacia hit the scene in the late 90s/early 00s when pop princesses all fit a certain mold.

“If you think of all the pop stars that came after Madonna, or the Mariah Carey’s that came after the Celine’s, they look very similar to each other,” Anastacia said.

“They like to feed the narrative of whatever’s popular, and I definitely didn’t fit that narrative vocally or look-wise.

“I wasn’t a girly-girl, so they just didn’t know where to put me until I put myself on a stage and said, ‘This is what I’m like! I dress quirky and I wear glasses with a tint’.”

Over two decades later, fans are still listening to iconic tracks like ‘I’m Outta Love’, ‘Sick and Tired’, ‘Paid My Dues’, and many more.

“I don’t have current music, but I have music that has stayed in this decade of saturation; from 2000 to 2010 it dominated and then it just didn’t go away. It’s still rotating in clubs and radio stations and streaming,” Anastacia noted.

“It’s lovely to know that I have a catalogue that is standing the test of time and that I’ve written songs that have stood the test of time.

“I’m in awe and I’m very honoured that I’m part of that club. I love to sing, and I love to perform, so it’s great to still do what I love to do.”

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This year marks the 25th anniversary of her debut album, ‘Not That Kind’ – a milestone marked by an international tour that will bring the performer to Coliseum Theatre.

Anastacia plans to give fans a melodic trip through her career.

“I like to take the audience on a journey musically,” Anastacia explained.

“There’s the pop/funk/soul vibes, there’s a ballad section, there’s a rock section, there’s a little bit of a Y2K nod. I want them to not just hear it, but to feel it.”

See Anastacia at Coliseum Theatre on September 26 for her #NTK25 tour. Tickets are available online at https://coliseumtheatre. com.au/whats-on/anastacia.

ALLY HALL

THINGS TO DO

Penrith Reptile Expo and Family Fun Day

Enjoy a reptile-themed family day out at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Stadium on August 10. This annual gathering of cold-blooded vertebrates is sure to amaze animal lovers of all ages. You can get up close with reptiles and learn fascinating facts about them, meet breeders, and even buy your own reptile and all the products you will need to keep them happy.

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

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

Saturdays 4.30pm, WSU Kingswood Campus. Outside the Food Hub. Guan 0422 120 738.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. (02) 9713 9038.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club

Penrith Comedy Club

Get ready to laugh out loud at Penrith Comedy Club – a fresh, professional comedy night bringing top-tier entertainment to the heart of Penrith! Held monthly at the stylish Astina Suites, each showcase features a brand-new lineup of seasoned comedians guaranteed to deliver two hours of non-stop laughs. Tickets are $25 and more details are available online.

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the fourth Monday of the month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am. All new members welcome.

St Clair Probus Club

Meets on the third Monday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email secretarystclairprobusclub@hotmail. com for more information.

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.

Penrith Lions Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Trish on

Open Indoor Skydiving Championships

The Australian Open Indoor Skydiving Championships are coming back to Penrith from August 8 to 10! The event was last held at Penrith iFLY in 2019, and this year will mark the 10th anniversary. It’s set to be the biggest and best yet, with over 100 teams already registered. So pop over to see some exciting flying! It’s free for spectators!

of the month for lunch. Members and 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

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. Mon-Wed 9am-5pm, Thu 9am-3pm,

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.

‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ (‘IKWYDLS’) is among ’90s horror royalty, bringing stars like Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr to the big screen, launching their careers. The original film brings so much thrill and suspense to the audience as you wait to see which of your favourite characters will get picked off next. I love the original and its sequels, which is why I was so disappointed with the remake. Personally, I think most great movies shouldn't be remade because it tarnishes the original. Remakes and reboots never live up to the value of the original, and writers rely too much on nostalgia to make the film good. This is the case with the newest iteration of ‘IKWYDLS’.

The movie begins similarly to the original, establishing new characters that fit almost

exactly into the archetypes of those before them. Ava is our new Julie, Danica our Helen, and a toss between Teddy and Milo for our new Ray. When a fourth of July celebration goes horribly wrong, the friends are sworn to secrecy to maintain their reputations as Southport's elite. This comes back to bite them however, when an unknown killer in a fisherman's slicker begins hunting them down one by one to pay for their actions.

This movie had all the great hallmarks of the original, and the involvement of original cast members definitely hit the nostalgia marks. But as I've seen recently with new iterations of franchises like ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Scream’ (personal favourites of mine), the writers aren't bringing anything new to the table. It's not enough to just repeat the same storyline with new characters. There needs

to be an element that makes it different and stand out from the original. If we're not striving to make a better film, what's the point of writing a remake?

The script also sadly got no points from me. Including Gen Z buzzwords like “Queen”, “Diva” and “Slay” every 30 seconds doesn’t mean the writers understand Gen Z humour.

In fact it proves the opposite. The script felt so out of touch it was almost unbearable in some scenes. If you're a fan of the originals I implore you to watch it for yourself and make your own mind up, however as satisfying as a good harpoon gun kill can be, it just wasn't enough for me.

– Madeline Dantier

See these movies at... PENRITH

www.hoyts.com.au

WAYNE TUNKS CAN BE HEARD

I grew up loving music videos. While most small children used to love watching cartoons on a Saturday morning, for me it was always about music videos. I used to love watching ‘Sounds’, hosted by Donnie Sutherland. I was also a big fan of ‘Countdown’ and ‘Solid Gold’. As a kid, I did always want to be a Solid Gold dancer.

I remember quite young watching epic clips like Madonna’s, ‘Material Girl’ and Michael Jackson’s, ‘Thriller’. Music videos were conversation starters, not just for kids in the playground, but for adults as well. My love for them cemented as ‘Rage’ started.

I used to get up early on Saturday mornings so I could watch all of the Top 50, and for a while, the Top 60 charts. ‘Video Hits’ was another classic, as was ‘Saturday Morning Live’, a

WAYNE’S W RLD

with Wayne Tunks

show I went to watch taped a number of times, and even had the pleasure of competing on their game show, ‘It’s Rockademic’ (thanks to Gyan for being my celeb partner and helping me win).

Christmas 1988 was a game changer for me. The Tunks family finally got a VCR and immediately I started recording music videos every week. When a clip I liked started, I madly pressed record. Sometimes I would start as a song finished, hoping the next clip was one I wanted. For

a good 10 years, I taped my favourite songs on plenty of video tapes. I still have many of them, and sometimes still play them. The quality of the tape isn’t good, but it’s still great to watch them. ‘Video Hits’ was OK to record from, but ‘Rage’ was best, you would get the whole clip, including those with a story before or after the song. I even remember the first video I recorded, ‘Especially For You’ by our own Kylie and Jason – a clip and song I loved.

It’s a shame we have kind of lost the love of the music video. YouTube is a great tool for watching what you want, when you want, but I miss those Saturday mornings watching clips and getting excited when they hyped the premiere of something new. And now if you’ll excuse me, I think I might have to go track down that first video I made and see if it still works.

COUNTRY CORNER

New country festival confirmed A brand new country music festival is coming to Australia, and it’s landed mega star Jelly Roll (pictured above) as its headliner.

Strummingbird will be held on the Sunshine Coast (October 25), Newcastle (November 1) and Perth (November 2), with tickets on sale from today.

The incredible American country star Jelly Roll is the main headliner, along with Shaboozey (pictured bottom right) and Treaty Oak Revival.

Beyond the two live music stages, Strummingbird will deliver all the classic honky tonk vibes with a true-blue spin. Saddle up for a mechanical bull ride, or get rowdy amongst the Howdy Howdy Saloon for line dancing with Maddison Glover, BBQ and cold bevs, plus merch and fashion – everything that celebrates our one-of-a-kind Aussie country culture.

Strummingbird follows in the footsteps of Kicks Entertainment’s other world-class events, including the nationally-beloved Spilt

Milk. Whether you’re raised on country or just love a good guitar riff, Strummingbird welcomes all.

Jelly Roll’s latest album ‘Beautifully Broken’ debuted at No.1 on the Billboard Top 200 charts in 2024.

Beyond music, Jelly Roll has built a stalwart community of fans around the world through the release of his record-breaking documentary ‘Save Me’.

He tops the bill alongside one of the most exciting voices redefining modern country, Shaboozey, who blends Southern roots with hip-hop swagger and has truly propelled to global virality with his hit song ‘A Bar Song (Tipsy)’.

Last year, he made history with the track, tying the record for the most weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, holding the top spot for an incredible 19 weeks. The track’s runaway success has cemented him as a trailblazer in the new wave of country, blending genre-defying influences with undeniable star power. Sign up at www.strummingbird.com.au.

TV Guide: August 8 – 14

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “To England, With Love” (PG) (’24) Stars: Georgia Hirst 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News

3:30 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 4:00 Counting Cars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown 7:30 AFL: Round 22: Geelong v Essendon *Live*

3:00

12:00 Revenge (M) 3:00 First Dates Australia (PG) 4:15 Movie: “The Tiger Rising” (PG) (’22) Stars: Christian Convery 6:30 Movie: “Hotel Transylvania” (PG) (’12) Stars: Adam Sandler 8:30 Movie: “I, Robot” (M v) (’04) Stars: Will Smith

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Waabiny Time 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Undiscovered Vistas 7:30 Movie: “Inkheart” (PG) (’08) Stars: Brendan Fraser

8:00 Tough Tested (PG) 9:00 Numb3rs (PG) 10:00 JAG (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 Fire Country (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Movie: “BlackBerry” (M l) (’23) Stars: Jay Baruchel 2:00

Save With Jamie 8:30 Hairy Bikers Go Local 9:35 Come Dine With Me: UK 10:00 Legends Of The Fork 4:10 France 24 International News 4:40 PBS News Hour 5:40 The Fast History Of (PG) 6:05 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The World Is Not Enough” (PG) (’99) Stars: Pierce Brosnan 12:00

9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Grantchester (M) 1:15 Patience (M) 2:05 All Creatures Great And Small (PG) 2:55 Great Southern Landscapes (PG) 3:25 Earth 4:25 Would I Lie To You? 4:55 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives 5:25 Landline 5:55 Australian Story 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Grantchester (M v) 8:20 Midsomer Murders (M v) 9:50 Bay Of Fires (M l,v) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: The Valley/ Randwick/ Eagle Farm *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Great Outdoors (PG) 7:30 Ron Iddles - The Good Cop (M v) 8:35 Movie: “Inferno” (M l,v) (’16) Stars: Tom Hanks 11:00 Movie: “The Invitation” (MA15+) (’22) Stars: Nathalie Emmanuel 1:10 Repco Supercars Highlights 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra - Saturday 12:00 Great Australian Detour: Perisher 12:30 NRL Women’s: Dragons v Sharks *Live* 2:30 NRLW Wrap (PG) 3:15 NRL Women’s: Knights v Tigers *Live* 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 NRL: Bulldogs v Warriors *Live* 9:25 NRL: Post-Match 10:00 Movie: “The Expendables” (MA15+) (’10) 10:00 My Market Kitchen 10:30 Loving Gluten Free 11:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 12:10 Good Chef Bad Chef 12:30 Farm To Fork 1:00 The Yes Experiment (PG) 1:30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures (PG) 2:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 3:30 Pooches At Play 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30 Everyday Gourmet

3:00 Harry’s Practice

3:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 4:30 The Zoo 5:00 The Yorkshire Steam

(PG) 6:00 Every Bite Takes You Home (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 11:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 Teeing Off With Daisy Thomas (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 Circuit Boats Drivers Championship 4:00 AFL: Round 22: Brisbane v Sydney *Live* 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Pawn Stars (PG)

11:30 The Big Adventure 1:00 My France With Manu (PG) 2:10 Starstruck 3:25 America’s Got Talent (PG) 5:10 Movie: “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” (PG) (’22) Stars: Javier Bardem 7:30 Movie: “Hitch” (PG) (’05) Stars: Will Smith

3:55 Penn And Teller: Fool Us (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 Car S.O.S (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Specials 7:05 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:35 QI (PG) 8:05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (PG)

4:00 Chatham Islanders (PG) 5:30 Amplify (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Big Backyard Quiz (M) 8:30 Movie: “A Nightmare On Elm Street” (M) (’84) Stars: Heather Langenkamp 10:05 Bob Marley And The Wailers

5:30 Marcus In The Med: Mallorca 6:00 Island Echoes With Nornie Bero 6:30 Rick Stein’s India 7:40 Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour: South Africa 8:35 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:35 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 10:30 Mind Of A Chef

6:00 Home Shopping 9:00 Navigating The World 10:00 JAG (PG) 12:00 Fire Country (PG) 1:00 A Million Little Things (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Reel Action 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 FBI International (M v) 12:15 Home Shopping 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Deal Or No Deal 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Frasier (M)

4:05 France 24 International News 4:35 PBS News Hour 5:35 Mastermind 6:35 The Frontier (PG) 7:30 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 James May: Our Man In Italy (PG) 10:30 Marcella (PG) 2:10 The Kings (M l)

1:35 Movie: “Love And Penguins” (AKA ‘You, Me And The Penguins’) (G) (’22) 3:20 Movie: “The Dust Factory” (PG) (’04) Stars: Hayden Panettiere 5:20 Movie: “Get Smart” (PG) (’08) Stars: Steve Carell 7:30 Movie: “Die Another Day” (M s,v) (’02) 10:30 My Favorite Martian 11:00 The Baron (PG) 12:00 The Avengers (PG) 1:00 Movie: “I’ll Take Sweden” (G) (’65) Stars: Tuesday Weld 3:00 Shute Shield 5:00 NRL Women’s: Bulldogs v Warriors *Live* 7:00 TBA 9:30 TBA 12:00 TBA

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Griff’s Great American South 3:15 Nigella Bites 3:45 Martin Clunes - Islands Of The Pacific (PG) 4:30 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Austin (PG) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Sunday Footy Feast 1:30 AFL: Round 22: GWS v North Melbourne *Live* 4:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Voice (PG) 8:50 INXS - Live At Wembley (M l) 10:50 Boyzone - Life, Death And Boybands (M l) 11:50 TBA 12:50 Repco Supercars Highlights 2:00 Home Shopping 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 Sunday Footy Show (PG) 11:45 NRL Women’s: Titans v Roosters *Live* 1:45 NRL Women’s: Raiders v Broncos *Live* 3:30 NRL: Eels v Cowboys *Live* 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The Block (PG) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Late 10:10 Body In The Suitcase (M) 11:10 The First 48 (M v) 12:05 Embarrassing Bodies (MA15+) 8:00 Roads Less Travelled 8:30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures (PG)

Border SecurityInternational (PG) 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 10:00 Starstruck 11:15 Movie: “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” (PG) (’22) Stars: Javier Bardem 1:35 Home And Away (PG) 4:25 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 6:30 Puppy School (PG) 7:05 Puppy School (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 3:40 Movie: “Lee Fields: Faithful Man” (PG) (’22) Stars: Lee Fields 5:10 Bob Marley And The Wailers: Live At The Rainbow 1977 (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders 7:30 Extraordinary Animals 6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 All 4 Adventure (PG) 9:00 JAG (PG) 11:00 Fire Country (PG) 12:00 A Million Little Things (PG) 2:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 Pooches At Play 4:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 8:00 Frasier (PG) 10:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 11:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness

6:40 James Martin’s French Adventure 7:35 Marion Grasby’s Flavours: Heart And

8:05 Chris Cooks Cymru 8:35 Rick Stein: From Venice To Istanbul 9:45 Anthony Bourdain: Parts

France 24 International News 4:30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 5:00 Kars & Stars (PG) 5:50 Alone Sweden (PG) (In Swedish) 6:40 Engineering Reborn (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 Maui’s Deadly Firestorm

3:00 Cards And Collectables Australia 3:30 Movie: “Fisherman’s Friends 2: One And All” (PG) (’22) 5:40 Movie: “Yours, Mine And Ours” (PG) (’05) Stars: Dennis Quaid 7:30 Movie: “Casino Royale” (M v) (’06) Stars: Daniel Craig 12:30 Movie: “The Titfield Thunderbolt” (G) (’53) 2:15 Movie: “My Brother Jonathan” (G) (’47) Stars: Michael Denison 4:30 Dad’s Army (PG) 5:00 M*A*S*H (PG) 6:00 NRL Women’s: Eels v Cowboys *Live* 8:00 M*A*S*H (PG)

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

Get Macca’s® delivered.

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:10

(PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30

(PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:00 Octonauts 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Piripenguins 7:30 Do Not Watch This Show

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

7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

(PG)

4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 Car S.O.S (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 6:30 Nigella Express 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Nadiya’s Everyday Baking 8:00 Rachael Ray In Tuscany 8:30 Guillaume’s Paris

12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 Fire Country (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:30 The Weekly Kick-Off

5:45 The Fast History Of (PG) 6:10 The Ride Life With Sung Kang 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

Morning Show (PG)

Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Panthers v Storm *Live* 9:45 NRL: Knock Off (M)

5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Spectre” (M) (’15) Stars: Daniel Craig

6:30

7:30

(PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Fire Country (PG)

8:30

4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 4:00 Steal This House

6:00

3:30 Movie: “Steptoe And Son Ride Again” (PG) (’73) Stars: Harry Corbett 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By

Nathan Taylor

TV

Ê 10 has confirmed TV’s worst kept secret: ‘Big Brother’ is returning to its original home of Dreamworld on the Gold Coast. Hosted by the amazing Mel Tracina, filming on the rebooted reality juggernaut is expected to take place from early November and set to screen six nights a week, with live streaming. To audition for the new season of ‘Big Brother’, visit www.BigBrotherCasting.com.au.

Ê The new season of ‘The Voice’ will premiere on Seven this Sunday, August 10 at 7pm. Hosted by Sonia Kruger, the coaches this season include Melanie C, Richard Marx, Ronan Keating and Kate Miller-Heidke. More than 60 artists will perform, hoping to turn their singing dreams into reality. The winner will take home a $100,000 cash prize, plus a recording development package including production, recording, mixing, mastering and access to Australia’s leading ANR and label services.

Ê New ABC natural history doco ‘Killer Whale: Australia’s Megapod’, narrated by Richard Roxburgh, will air on Tuesday, August 26 at 8.30pm. In the Bremer Sub Basin

about 60km off the south coast of Western Australia, lives the truly formidable Bremer Canyon megapod. Join Australia’s leading killer whale scientists, Dr Rebecca Wellard, John Totterdell and Dr Isabella Reeves, as they unravel the secrets of this extraordinary pod in this one-off special documentary. Having spent some time with these wonderful creatures in WA earlier this year, I for one can’t wait to watch!

Ê Popular Seven drama ‘The Rookie’ will return for its seventh season on Monday, August 18. Original rookie John Nolan (Nathan Fillion) returns to work having recovered from a gunshot wound, as the LAPD welcomes two new recruits, Miles Penn (Deric Augustine) and Seth Ridley (Patrick Keleher), to the force.

Ê Netflix has renewed hit Eric Bana drama ‘Untamed’ for a second season. Bana will return as Kyle Turner, Investigative Services Branch agent of the National Parks Service. A new park is being teased for season two.

Ê Coming soon to SBS is upcoming UK series ‘Classic Christmas Movies’. The sixpart series is hosted by Ian Nathan and tells the story behind festive-themed films such as ‘Home Alone’, ‘Elf’, ‘Love Actually’, ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, ‘Bad Santa’, and ‘Muppets Christmas Carol’.

Ê Upcoming music special ‘INXS Live at Wembley’ will look back on the iconic 1991 concert event. Airing this Sunday, August 10 at 8.30pm, band members Jon Farriss and Kirk Pengilly reflect on the event, offering an insider’s view into the music, the legacy, and the magic of INXS at their peak. It will be narrated by newsreader Michael Usher.

Ê Legendary US soap ‘Days of Our Lives’ has been renewed for a further two seasons, taking it through to 2028. In Australia, episodes now screen on 10 Drama at 12pm midday.

Ê Congrats to Lynne McGranger on winning the Gold Logie! It was never in doubt!

BIG BROTHER, CHANNEL 10

WHY CASTLE HILL IS BOOMING IN SALES

Metro stations are the latest essential on residential property investors’ wishlists as Sydney’s latest transport infrastructure unlocks the next generation of hotspots – with Castle Hill now a suburb to watch.

According to leading agency Colliers – the newly appointed agents for Carrington Place, next to the Hills Showground Metro station – smart investors are choosing properties in suburbs that offer connectivity to Metro

The $8.3 billion Sydney Metro Northwest line has already delivered an exponential boost to property values in Castle Hill since its opening in 2019, thanks to a combination of enhanced connectivity, rezoning potential, and the future delivery of additional infrastructure.

PropTrack research revealed that suburbs with a Metro station experience a surge in property values, outperforming their non-Metro neighbours. Castle Hill is testimony to this, with

strong demand for units in Castle Hill, with vacancy rates below two per cent.

“Evidence suggests that tenants are increasingly seeking homes close to Metro stations, particularly professionals and working families, and this appears set to continue,” Schulze said.

According to Colliers, planned future infrastructure for Castle Hill has the potential to unlock further capital growth, with the redevelopment of the Hills Showground Station Precinct

hubs due to their strong rental demand fundamentals and potential for rapid value appreciation.

“The Sydney Metro system has effectively slashed travel times into the Sydney CBD, in many cases cutting the commute in half. There is a groundswell of tenant demand in suburbs with Metro infrastructure such as Castle Hill and this has caught the attention of investors,” said Blake Schulze, National Director – Residential at Colliers.

values rising by 72 per cent over the last decade, while the neighbouring suburb of Baulkham Hills, saw values grow by just 49 per cent during the same period.

Rental yields are also rising in tandem with property values, according to Real Estate Australia (REA) data. The average rental return for a unit in Castle Hill has grown by seven per cent over the year to April 2025, reaching an average $750 per week and reflecting a robust rental yield of 3.5 per cent. The data also reflects

delivering new public open space, community and recreational facilities, and new retail. This is alongside a suite of new road upgrades set to be delivered throughout the Hills Shire area.

Atrium, the first stage of Ellipse Property’s $750+ million residential masterplan, Carrington Place, is testimony to the increasing investor appetite for transport-oriented units, with almost a quarter of apartment stock sold to investors to date.

The 32,000-square-metre

Carrington Place masterplan is located at 36 Carrington Road, just minutes from the Hills Showground Metro station, and will deliver more than 800 new homes alongside 20,000 square metres of outdoor recreational area.

With construction underway by leading iCIRT-rated builder Decode Group, Atrium is earmarked for completion in 2026 and comprises 140 spacious apartments in a range of floorplan configurations from one- to four-bedrooms.

With one-bedroom units now sold out, prices at Atrium start from $725,000 for a one-bedroom, spanning 50-75 square metres, to $940,000 for a two-bedroom unit spanning 76-123 square metres. A three-bedroom unit, between 90 and 147 square metres, starts from $1,225,000, while a four-bedroom, 199-square-metre apartment is priced at $3,650,000.

“THERE IS A GROUNDSWELL OF TENANT DEMAND IN SUBURBS WITH METRO INFRASTRUCTURE”

“Carrington Place includes a selection of considered amenities such as an outdoor gym, rooftop gardens and communal lounges, designed to foster connection with the outdoors while minimising strata costs. Residents are well serviced by nearby parklands, recreational facilities and retail hubs, such as Castle Towers shopping centre,” said Puja Khanna, Associate Director – Design, Marketing & Sales at Ellipse Property.

The development also boasts views to Cattai Creek and the wider Hills region, with a future 1km boardwalk coming soon.

& Co Cameron Faico • 0434 400 225 cameron@faicoandco.com.au

What is so great about this property?

Privately hidden on top of the hill and substantially set back from the main road, this 1992 masterbuilt family home is the true definition of a rare hidden gem. You could be anywhere in Australia with serene beauty all around you, yet located just a short drive to the thriving Penrith CBD.

Who does this property suit? Families looking for privacy and plenty of space. Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

Cranebrook is a peaceful, family-friendly suburb near Penrith, with parks, schools, and a strong community feel. Its steady growth, rental returns, and proximity to the Nepean River and Blue Mountains make it ideal for families and investors alike.

SPACIOU S 802SQ M CORNE R

B LOC K, 600M TO STATION

Situated on a spacious cor ner block with 802 square metre block, 600 metres away from Kingswood station, this home presents an exceptional opportunity for families, investors, or developers. Offering a perfect balance of comfort, space, and convenience, this property is ideally located just across from the newly renovated Steamroller Park.

O PEN HOME| SAT URDAY, 9 AUGUS T 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM

GIZZELLE P OWELL

0428 934 618

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

With plenty of

the perfect time to nd out what your property is worth. Contact Gizzelle today for a FREE, upto-date market appraisal.

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REBUILDING AFTER A STROKE

Recovery from a stroke can be one of life’s biggest challenge. Everyday tasks like walking, dressing, or even standing can suddenly feel overwhelming. But with the right support, rebuilding strength, balance, and confidence is possible – and this is where an Exercise Physiologist can make a profound difference. How does a stroke affect the body?

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in the world. Common physical side effects for people living with a stroke are reduced cardiovascular capacity, muscular weakness, paralysis and altered sensation which causes difficulty with ambulation and the ability to complete activities of daily living. Many people experience weakness on one side of the body due to the cross over of blood supply in the brain. These challenges can increase the risk of falls and lead to frustration or loss of independence.

How exercise physiology helps

Rehabilitation after a stroke is multi-factorial and requires careful consideration. An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is trained to create a safe, evidencebased exercise program to help people regain function after a stroke. A combination of aerobic and resistance training is most effective at improving cognitive function, balance and gait patterns, strength in both affected and non-affected limbs and one’s ability to complete activities of daily living, additionally, exercise assists in reducing risk for further cardiovascular disease.

The Experts

IS YOUR DOG DRINKING MORE?

AIndividualised, safe support

No two recoveries are the same. An AEP works closely with you to tailor exercises to your abilities and most importantly YOUR goals – whether its walking independently, climbing stairs, or simply being able to play with your Grandchildren again

Take the next step

Recovery after a stroke doesn’t stop in hospital or rehab. Ongoing, guided exercise can help you continue making progress, reduce complications and improve your quality of life.

At OnePointHealth, our Accredited Exercise Physiologists are here to help you rebuild safely.

s our dogs enter their golden years, it’s natural for some of their habits to change. But one behaviour that often raises concern is an increase in water consumption. If your older dog is suddenly drinking more than usual, it’s important not to dismiss it as “just old age”. Excessive thirst – also known as polydipsia – can be a red flag for several underlying health issues that require attention. First, it’s important to consider what’s “normal”. On average, a healthy dog drinks around 50-60ml of water per kilogram of body weight each day. While environmental factors like hot weather or increased activity can temporarily boost thirst, a persistent change should prompt a visit to your veterinarian.

One of the most common causes of increased thirst in older dogs is kidney disease. As the kidneys lose function, they become less efficient at filtering waste, and your dog may drink more in an effort

to stay hydrated and flush toxins from their system. You may also notice more frequent urination, weight loss, or a dull coat.

Another condition associated with excessive drinking is diabetes mellitus. In this case, the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels, leading to increased thirst and urination, along with a ravenous appetite and potential weight loss.

Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is also frequently diagnosed in senior dogs. It occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Dogs with Cushing’s may drink and urinate excessively, and you might also notice a pot-bellied appearance, hair loss, or lethargy.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder inflammation can also trigger increased drinking, especially if your dog is straining to urinate or having accidents inside. Less commonly, liver disease or certain cancers may also present with this symptom.

While these conditions might sound worrying, the good news is that many are manageable with the right diagnosis and treatment. Routine blood and urine testing can often pinpoint the cause, and early detection offers the best chance for effective management and a good quality of life. It’s also worth reviewing any medications your senior dog may be taking, as some – like corticosteroids or diuretics –can cause increased thirst as a side effect. Ultimately, you know your dog best. If you find yourself refilling the water bowl more often or notice other subtle changes in behaviour, don’t wait for things to worsen.

KELLIE TICKNER

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Mercury moves forward in your relationship zone, and Uranus (your patron planet) makes a lovely link with Saturn. So it’s a good week to be your creative, quirky Aquarian self – in an organised and strategic way. Innovation + improvement = success. Your motto is from birthday great, Madonna (who was born on August 16, 1958), “No matter who you are, no matter where you’ve come from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Mercury finally moves forwards in your home zone, plus Venus (your ruling planet) and Jupiter link up in your neighbourhood zone. So it’s a wonderful week for family matters and local community connections. Saturday favours ambitious dreams as you follow your true destiny. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Madonna (who turns 67 on Saturday), “I stand for freedom of expression, doing what you believe in, and going after your dreams.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Mercury turns direct and the Sun’s also shining in Leo, so it’s time to communicate your creative ideas with extra pizazz, dream mind-blowing dreams, and/or make connections with bohemian folk from foreign shores. But, with Uranus activating your wanderlust zone, many restless Cats will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy. Pull on your travelling shoes and escape on a wild weekend getaway or plan an adventurous trip for some time soon.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

With Mercury finally moving forwards in your career zone, a professional matter or a volunteer project should gradually shift from go slow to all systems go. If it’s too much to handle on your own, then don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from your friends, work colleagues and/or your extended peer group. Don’t battle on alone … other people are happy to pitch in and help. The weekend is wonderful for relaxing, unwinding, drifting and dreaming.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

On Monday, Mercury turns direct in your daily routine and work zone, so plans and appointments should start to run more smoothly. Then Venus and Jupiter join up in your leisure and pleasure zone on Tuesday. So it’s a good week to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition, organise a night at the movies or a rowdy lunch with your favourite friends. The weekend favours relaxation, contemplation and dreaming about the future.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

The buzz word for the week is Communication, as Mercury (your patron planet) finally moves forward in your neighborhood and conversation zone. Expect increased social interaction and educational activities within your local community, but make sure you slow down and choose your words wisely. Wisdom for the week is from Gemini writer and philosopher Jean-Paul Satre, “Words are more treacherous and powerful then we think.”

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Mercury moves forward in your solitary zone, which favours meditation, contemplation, relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem or get to the bottom of a mystery. However, if you stubbornly hang onto the past and resist change, then you’re in for an unpredictable time. Strive to be more adaptable to constantly changing circumstances. Heed the wise words of social commentator Will Rogers, “Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction.”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Venus (planet of luck) and Jupiter (your ruling planet) pair up your money-fromothers zone on Tuesday. So – sometime over the coming year – expect a boost to your bank balance via a pay rise, work bonus, bumper tax return, superannuation payout or extra business. Any windfall won’t last long if you don’t manage it wisely though. Mercury also moves forward (on Monday) which is good news for travel plans, long holidays and weekend getaways.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Rambunctious Rams can appear confident on the outside but – with Saturn and Neptune transiting through your sign – the main danger at the moment is selfdoubt. As celebrity chef (and birthday great) Julia Child observed, “The only real stumbling block is fear of failure.” So pick yourself up, shake yourself off, and start running your own race, Aries. Self-belief and persistence will get you where you want to go! Friday is fabulous for romance and creativity.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Are you making the most of lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter both transiting through (and linking up) in your sign? For the first time in 12 years! Crab charisma is at an all-time high as you charm the cynics and dazzle the doubters with little effort on your part. So it’s the perfect time to apply for a job, bonus or promotion; enter a competition; or call in a few old favours. Saturday is the perfect day to write down your dreams and aspirations for the future.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

On Tuesday, Venus (your patron planet) and Jupiter (prosperity planet) pair up your career zone. So Lady Luck is heading your way! If you want to get ahead then strive to work smarter, not just harder. Your natural charm and generosity will win people over. If you choose to take on a professional challenge in the coming year, you’ll find the benefits will far outweigh the difficulties. The more you focus on a cherished dream, the more likely it will come true.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

This week the Sun and Mercury (moving forward) highlight a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture. Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope, as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well placed. And prepare for a welcome burst of Capricorn creativity and energy as Uranus links up with your ruler Saturn. Lucky opportunities could magically manifest, especially at work or via a family connection.

Engage

7. Cram (for exam)

8. Cost of living index (1,1,1)

9. British vehicle, ... Martin

10. Cheat 12. Sting

Kiosks

23. Familiar with (4,2)

25. Fragrances

26. Gets steeper

29. Military pageants

32. Club’s yearly meeting (1,1,1)

35. Beachside

37. Horse-like animals

38. Contempt

40. Savoury jelly

41. Inuit snow shelter

42. Long-limbed (colt)

43. Cut (timber)

44. Jellied meat loaf

47. Comprehended

51. Nanny (2,4)

52. Revered tomes

53. Hired guns (3,3)

54. Not singular

58. Voiced publicly

59. Failure

61. Originated

63. Nimble

64. Breathe

65. Go by (of time)

66. Invitation holder

68. Coral isle

71. Pakistani cricketer, ... Khan

72. Missile fin

74. Wheat spikes

76. Attempts

78. Bite persistently

80. Dance, ... de deux

83. Irish activists, Provisional ... (1,1,1)

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1. What is the name of the continent in ‘Game of Thrones’?

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How to beat Str8ts –

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

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

Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

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 lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo IGA

Londonderr y Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Little Bottler

MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt

RM Newsagency

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Ampol Coreen Avenue

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Au stralian Arms

Brisket Boys

Ca fé Fre d

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hogs Bre ath C afe

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Golf Club

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Ta s tify

Tattersalls Hotel

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

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

Jayam Supermarket

Monfar ville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Mar ys Band Club

St . Mar ys

McDonald's St Mar ys South

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Triton toughens for title tilt

For a long time, Mitsubishi’s Triton was ‘best of the rest’, compared to market leading Utes including the Ranger and HiLux.

The latest update has the Triton pushing for a seat at the main table, a bigger, bolder and more muscular look headlining the transformation.

The 2.4-litre twin-turbo four cylinder diesel trails on outright power, with 150kW and 470Nm, but delivers it in a linear manner, making for a smooth ride under full acceleration, although there is a coarseness to the note at higher revs.

Tow capacity matches the opposition at 3.5 tonnes, our 2-tonne rig posed no problems for the Triton.

A six-speed manual is available, we drove the auto, a smooth shifting unit working up and down the gears, with only a noticeable ‘clunk’ when engaging first gear.

Modern manufacturing eliminates badly built cars, not only was the paint thick and lustrous but the Triton’s panel gaps were tight and even, doors close solidly, and there were no rattles during our test.

We had the GLX-R, including the ‘sports bar’ with punched metal side plates, looked great, but blocked access to the front tie-down points in the tub to anyone with hands bigger than the average six-year-old.

“THE UPDATED TRITON IS GUNNING FOR A SEAT AT THE BIG TABLE, AND WITH GOOD CAUSE”

Cloth and vinyl dominated the interior, like the exterior styling, it was all squared-off edges and flat faces, with the centre stack dominated by the rectangular touch screen unit.

The manually adjustable front seats are comfortable, even for bigger drivers, despite the short seat base, although under-dash leg room was tight, it was either your arms or legs were happy, but not both at the same time.

Even in base trim the Triton is well equipped, we had the four-speaker AM/FM/DAB unit with wireless Android and CarPlay, sound was reasonable in a relatively small space, there was also automatic dial-a-temperature air-conditioning, and powered external mirrors.

Standard fit out includes tyre pressure monitoring, along with ABS/ EBD/Brake Assist collision mitigation braking, traction and stability control, hill holder and trailer stability, as well as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning, all part of a comprehensive safety package.

The contentious item is the Driver Monitoring System, using a camera mounted on the steering column, watching the driver’s eyes for signs

of fatigue or a lack of concentration.

Even with a post-launch software update, the system is overly sensitive and intrusive, yes, it can be switched off, it has to be done every time you start the car, but the constant beeps and alerts when the system thinks you aren’t paying attention, because you are checking blind spots or scanning the instruments, becomes tiring and distracting in itself.

Ordinarily, I am a flag-waver for driver assist technologies, but this one is too sensitive, and defeats the purpose of having it, if your first instinct is to disable it as soon as the car is running.

That aside, the Triton was a nice place to be, it works well as a ute, the tub is a good size with a payload of around 1000kg, even if I couldn’t use

The Triton is comfortable, but does have its issues.

the front tie-downs without a great deal of planning.

Driving manners are good, treat it for what it is, a high-riding, load carrier with the ability to tackle broken terrain while pulling a trailer, and you will not be disappointed.

The brakes were good, with a load on it pulled up well, but remember, fully laden, you are nudging 3000kg and braking distances increase with vehicle mass, you will not outbrake

a Porsche.Other upsides are the electric power steering, it is tight and direct, point the wheel and the nose will follow, the turning circle is reasonable but narrow streets can be tricky.

Generally the ride is good, the back end can get choppy when empty thanks to the heavy duty suspension.

If Mitsubishi can tone down the Driver Monitoring, the Triton would be fantastic.

The Triton is getting better.

Tasman joins five star Ute club

The newly-released KIA Tasman is the latest Ute to join the five star crash protection club, following testing by the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

Testing checked a number of areas, including occupant protection and ‘vulnerable road users’, meaning pedestrians and cyclists, and the big Korean passed all criteria.

Other Utes to reach the same standard include the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha, JAC T9, Mitsubishi Triton, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Volkswagen’s Amarok, GWM Cannon and

Toyota HiLux.

With four of these, the Ranger, HiLux, D-Max and Shark 6 in the top-10 selling vehicles in Australia, it shows manufacturers have boosted safety in the Ute market, previously a segment that lagged behind ‘mainstream’ passenger vehicles.

For the Tasman, this included high scores, meaning a low injury risk, for the adult and child dummy occupants in the frontal offset crash test, although in the full-width frontal crash test the pelvis of the driver dummy slipped beneath lap section of the seatbelt.

Oz & Foreign is a reputable, third-generation automotive ser vice provider that has proudly ser ved Western Sydney since 1984. Specialising in European vehicles as well as all other makes and models, our Penrith-based workshop is equipped with skilled mechanics and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools that allow us to continue delivering highquality vehicle repairs and ser vicing.

Vehicle Repairs & Servicing for European Korean

Japanese Australian cars TO BOOK A SERVICE

Playing the weighting game

With Utes firmly entrenched as the modern family car, one area new owners can find confusing is how much weight they can load into their new pride and joy. Acronyms like GVM and GCM figure prominently in the conversation, along with kerb weight, but what do they mean?

“GO

can weigh, fully loaded with passengers, cargo and fuel.

Talking to Toyota Australia, they offered the following information, to demystify things and keep us safe on the road.

GVM – The easiest to understand, Gross Vehicle Mass is the maximum weight of the vehicle, using the Toyota HiLux SR5 dual cab 4x4 as a guide, it has a GVM of 3050kg, that is the most it

Payload and Kerb Weight – Gets a little tricky here, payload is the difference between our GVM and Kerb Weight, which is the vehicle ready to drive, but without the driver or any cargo.

In the case of our HiLux, that is 3050kg GVM minus kerb weight of 2045kg, for a payload of 1005kg, driver, passengers and cargo.

GCM – The second most common reference is the Gross Combination Mass for towing, that is the total weight of the fully loaded

vehicle and the trailer it is towing. Toyota tells us the HiLux has a GCM of 5850kg, this where things get interesting.

If we subtract the 3050kg GVM from the 5850kg GCM, this means when the ute is fully loaded, the maximum trailer weight is 2800kg, that is the total weight of the trailer (or caravan) and what it is carrying.

For new owners, go to a public weigh bridge and get a printout showing total weights, including individual axle loads, to keep you safe and legal on the road.

From regular maintenance t our experienced team ensur top condition and runs smoothly

Maintaining a clean and e ective Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is essential for your vehicle’s peak performance. Our experienced technicians use advanced cleaning tools to restore your DPF to its original condition.

TO A PUBLIC WEIGH BRIDGE AND GET A PRINTOUT SHOWING TOTAL WEIGHTS”

KIA’s Tasman Ute received a five star safety rating after crash testing by ANCAP.

Navigating vehicle weights can be tricky.

PROUD TO REPRESENT WEST

“I didn’t really think about it that much to be honest. At the beginning of the year, Mum and Dad said, ‘this is a World Cup year, you should try and have a crack at this’,” she recalled.

“I was like, ‘that would be pretty amazing, I should try and give this a go’.”

It’s been a whirlwind 12 months for the teenager, who has already been on several overseas trips with the Wallaroos including to South Africa and New Zealand. Waiaria said it’s been “tough” juggling her final year of high school and being a professional sportswoman.

“I’ve always wanted to travel the world, but to be able to travel to so many places while playing rugby, it doesn’t get much better,” she said.

“When I get back to school, my friends always ask where I’ve been or where I’m going to next. Sometimes I forget I have this amazing opportunity to be travelling and playing rugby. I’m literally living the dream.”

Waiaria, along with her 17-year-old teammate Caitlyn Halse, are set to become the youngest ever Australians to feature at a World Cup, with Millie Boyle (19 years, 82 days) holding the record.

Australia will kick off their 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign against Samoa in Manchester on August 23 before taking on the USA in York on August 31 and England in Brighton and Hove on September 7.

Powerful partners

“To know Panthers is also seeing the value of our sport and us as athletes and trying to lift us up and also learn from us, is something that I deeply respect,” Fox said.

Panthers captain Isaah Yeo, whose team could be preparing for a sixth consecutive Grand Final during the week of the Slalom World Championships, said it’s “exciting” to have the world’s best paddlers visit Penrith.

“It’s exciting any time you can get the best of the best in any sporting field in your own backyard,” he told the Weekender

“Hopefully we’re smack bang deep into a Finals run, but we’ll get days off during the week, so I can see a few of us boys going out there and supporting Noemie and Jess.”

Tickets to the ICF Slalom World Championships are on sale now via Ticketek. Tickets start at $15 for kids and $30 for adults.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SINGLES

Hakki Kazan Division 1

Hamish Nielson Division 2

Zain Merchant Division 3

Robert Mason Division 4

Arush Patravali Division 5

Joseph Mangaser Division 6

THURSDAY NIGHT DOUBLES

Courtney Cook Division 1

Justin Towell Division 2

Malakhai Tumia Division 3

Noemie Fox and Isaah Yeo came together to announce the partnership.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH

NATHAN TAYLOR

Panthers fall painstakingly short

NETBALL: The GWS Fury have claimed the 2025 Netball NSW Premier League U23 title, edging out fierce rivals Panthers 57-55 in a gripping Grand Final that capped off one of the most tightly contested seasons in recent memory. The two teams were evenly matched all year, having split their regular season clashes and finishing first and second on the ladder. The Fury punched their ticket to the Grand Final with a dramatic one-goal win in the semi-final, while the Panthers rebounded strongly in the preliminary final to earn their rematch. The Fury struck first in the high-intensity decider and maintained a narrow lead throughout, handling the pressure with poise and discipline across all four quarters. Goal attack Ava Moller proved instrumental in the victory, delivering a composed performance in the shooting circle and stepped up during crucial moments. GWS held the advantage at every break and withstood a late surge from the Panthers, who closed the gap with a three-goal run before Fury secured the final goal of the match to seal a two-goal win. Moller was awarded the prestigious President’s Medal as Player of the Match, recognised for her composure under pressure and her decisive impact in the Grand Final.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have produced a promising performance in last Saturday night’s overseas pre-season hit-out, narrowly falling to Indonesian heavyweight Persib Bandong 1-0 in front of a lively crowd at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium. Despite the result, the Wanderers impressed across the pitch creating chances, showing defensive composure and gaining valuable minutes as preparations continue for the upcoming Australia Cup and A-League Men season.

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers have lost three on the trot, beaten convincingly by the Parramatta Eels 32-4 in Round 5 of the Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership. The Panthers will look to bounce back when they battle Mounties this Saturday afternoon at Aubrey Keech Reserve.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 18 of NSWRL Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend with St Marys and Penrith Brothers having the bye. This weekend, St Marys will play the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks in both the Ron Massey Cup and the Sydney Shield, while Brothers will have another bye in both competitions.

RUGBY UNION: Following last weekend’s bye round due to the Wallabies and Lions Test match at Accor Stadium, the high-flying Penrith Emus will return to the field this Saturday afternoon against North Cronulla in Round 13 of the Meldrum Cup. The Emus have won six games this season and find themselves in fourth position with just two regular season games remaining. A win this weekend, along with a Georges River loss, should see the Emus secure their place in the Finals.

AFL: The GWS Giants have been thrashed by 88 points by the Western Bulldogs in Round 21 of the AFL competition. The 132-44 loss at Marvel Stadium was the Giants’ worst defeat of the season. Even with their big names present like Toby Greene, Jack Buckley and Josh Kelly, the Giants were never in it, with the Bulldogs producing an exceptional performance that keeps their Finals hopes alive with just three rounds remaining. The Giants, who have slipped to eighth, will dust themselves off this

week ahead of Sunday’s Round 22 clash against 17th placed North Melbourne in Canberra.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have defeated Sydney University 93-0 (via forfeit) in Round 15 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. The Rams will hope to get on the field this Saturday when they face the South West Sydney Blues this Saturday morning at Rosedale Oval. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes’ Round 15 AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 game against Macquarie University was cancelled due to the wet weather. The Ramettes will travel to Picken Oval this Saturday afternoon to play the Inner West Magpies.

CRICKET: Two players from the Penrith Cricket Club – Liam Doddrell and Alex Kerkham – have been selected in Cricket NSW’s newly restructured Blues Academy for the 2025/26 season. The Academy has undergone significant changes to better reflect a professional, high-performance environment and strengthen its alignment with the NSW Blues. This season, 33 players have been selected in the program which adopts a more streamlined, skill-based system. NSW selectors also have the flexibility to add up to seven additional players throughout the 2025/26 season, ensuring opportunities remain open for emerging talent who make strong performances. The Academy has also moved away from age-based squads, instead grouping players by skill type, allowing for more tailored coaching and a better player-to-coach ratio. Importantly, the 19-23 age group has been re-established as a focus area, with four-day ‘Colts’ matches offering crucial experience for players on the cusp of elite cricket. A unified coaching group now oversees all male programs from development to elite, with shared calendars, integrated training sessions, and regular crossover between pathway and Blues squads. Former NSW and Australian fast bowler Matthew Nicholson has recently joined the coaching staff. Blues coach Greg Shipperd said the revamped approach will give young players the strongest possible foundation. “The Blues Academy promises to give identified players from all disciplines the very best preparation,” he said. “Cricket NSW has great ambitions for all those in our care, and we are providing the best in facilities and recourses to assist players in reaching their full potential.”

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also direct message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

The U23 Panthers Netball team finished runners-up to the GWS Fury.

The Western Sydney Wanderers prior to their friendly in Indonesia last weekend.

The Giants were hammered by the Bulldogs.

DREAMS OF GREEN AND GOLD

Three rugby players with western Sydney running through their veins have been selected in the 32-player Wallaroos squad for the upcoming 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.

23-year-old Faliki Pohiva, 20-year-old Faitala Moleka and 17-year-old Waiaria

Ellis will represent Australia at their firstever Rugby World Cup later this month.

Pohvia has strong connections to Penrith, having played rugby league with Penrith Brothers in the past, while Moleka is a former Nepean Creative and Performing Arts student, who used to play footy with the St Marys Saints at the Kingsway.

A huge talent in rugby league, touch football and OzTag growing up, Waiaria has

one of the best stories of this World Cup – literally plucked out of the classroom to play in the biggest tournament of her blossoming career.

Speaking with the Weekender, the Year 12 student – who is in the middle of her HSC Trial Exams – said she was in shock when she heard she made the national team.

“It’s honestly crazy! I was so shocked and excited when I found out,” Waiaria said.

“I didn’t expect to be going to a World Cup this year. I was very grateful, but so surprised.”

Waiaria, who only recently made her debut for the Wallaroos, said she wasn’t even thinking about making the World Cup team because it wasn’t on her radar until the start of the year.

Faitala Moleka, Waiaria Ellis and Faliki Pohiva.

NATHAN TAYLOR Story continues on » p. 62