Western Weekender February 5 2026

GREAT ESCAPE

SPONSORED CONTENT

It’s Paradise on the Gold Coast!

If you’ve ever wished for a family holiday where the kids are entertained, the meals are sorted, and you actually get a chance to relax – this one’s for you.

Paradise Resort Gold Coast is famous for being Australia’s ultimate family resort, and their latest deal makes it even easier to enjoy a stress-free escape that delivers on fun, value, and convenience.

For a limited time, families can enjoy a three-night stay from just $899, with inclusions designed to take the pressure off parents and maximise the fun for kids.

Every morning starts with a continental buffet breakfast for the whole family, making mornings easy and flexible before heading out for a day of adventure.

Kids aged 0–12 years enjoy lunch and dinner included every day of your stay, choosing from kid-approved favourites across multiple resort dining venues.

No planning, no extra budgeting, and no “what are we eating tonight?” conversations – it’s all taken care of.

Each child also receives one fully supervised Kids Club session, giving them the chance to make new friends, get creative, and enjoy age-appropriate activities in a safe and welcoming environment

– while parents enjoy some wellearned downtime.

And they’ve thrown in $200 to spend on their range of resort activities such as ice-skating, teddy bear workshops, train rides, laser tag and much more.

At Paradise Resort, the fun never stops.

Your stay also includes unlimited access to the resort’s waterpark, pool and spa, so kids can splash, slide, and swim to their hearts’ content – and parents can relax

knowing everything is right on their doorstep.

Add to that a full program of daily activities and entertainment, from games and crafts to family-friendly shows, and you’ll quickly see why Paradise Resort is a favourite with

Cue your next city escape at The Capitol Hotel — your front-row seat to Sydney’s best theatre, shopping, and spontaneous adventures.

Design-led, delightfully dramatic, and just 90 minutes from Western Sydney. With the light rail only a minute away, the whole city’s your stage

families Australia-wide. It’s time to book now!

This package is ideal for families who want a holiday that truly caters to kids – without forgetting the parents.

With meals included, activities onsite, and accommodation designed for families, you can focus on spending quality time together instead of juggling schedules and costs.

Even better, the Doin’ It for the Kids package is available for travel on selected dates until March 2027, making it perfect for school holidays, long weekends, or a mid-year family escape.

Parents love the convenience, the value, and the peace of mind. Kids love the freedom, the fun, and the friends they make along the way. And everyone loves leaving with a camera full of memories and plans to come back again.

But don’t wait – ‘Doin it for the Kids’ is available for a limited time only, and rooms are expected to book fast.

Learn More at https://paradiseresort.com.au/Doin-it-for-thekids-2026 and discover why you have voted Paradise Resort Gold Coast as the Best Family Resort for the past 15 years.

Paradise Resort is the perfect family holiday on the Gold Coast.

Summer

Escape

Perfect escape in the Mountains

There’s something special about experiencing the Blue Mountains in summer — longer days, fresh mountain air, and the quiet thrill of stepping away from the everyday. For those seeking a relaxed getaway with character and charm, Hotel Mountain Heritage offers a timeless retreat that feels both familiar and refreshing.

Set against sweeping mountain views, the hotel is celebrated for its heritage architecture, cosy interiors, and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can slow down, unwind, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a mountain escape, whether lingering over a leisurely breakfast, enjoying a peaceful afternoon, or waking to crisp mountain air and scenic surroundings.

Dining is one of the standout experiences at Jamison Views, the hotel’s signature restaurant. With a seasonal menu of modern Australian cuisine and subtle French-inspired touches, every dish is crafted to appeal to a variety of tastes. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant provides a welcoming setting for leisurely meals. Whether catching up with friends, sharing a family dinner, or celebrating a special occasion,

combined with attentive service and beautiful mountain views, Jamison Views makes every visit memorable. For summer visitors, the hotel’s location offers easy access to iconic walks, lookouts, and villages while

remaining a peaceful retreat from the bustle. It’s ideal for weekend escapes, midweek breaks, or spontaneous stays when the everyday calls for a pause.

Whether dining at Jamison Views, relaxing in heritage-inspired

spaces, or exploring the mountains, Hotel Mountain Heritage invites locals and visitors alike to embrace summer in the Blue Mountains, comfortably, calmly, and at their own pace.

For a limited time, enjoy 25 per

cent off stays at Hotel Mountain Heritage. Use code “SUMMER26” when booking online for a classic Blue Mountains summer escape. T&Cs apply. www.mountainheritage. com.au

Hotel Mountain Heritage offers the perfect Blue Mountains escape.

The views are stunning.

GREAT ESCAPE

SPONSORED CONTENT

Sails makes a splash at Hamilton

Hamilton Island has unveiled the new-look Sails, now a contemporary poolside destination overlooking Catseye Bay and the first stage in the revitalisation of its Resort Centre precinct.

“The Sails Swim-Up Bar is the ultimate way to unwind”

Bringing together a swim-up bar, relaxed modern Australian dining and the Sails Sunbed Series, Sails offers an elevated water's-edge experience and a revitalised space to linger at the heart of Australia's tropical island in the Whitsundays.

Originally built as part of Hamilton Island's first resort development in the early 1980s, Sails restaurant and pool have long been a fixture of island holidays. This latest chapter reimagines a Hamilton Island classic for today's guests while preserving the laidback tropical feel that has made it a favourite for generations.

The new-look Sails now offers

all-day dining, from breakfast through to golden hour, welcoming guests of all ages. The menu features modern Australian dishes inspired by Eastern Mediterranean flavours

– light, aromatic and vibrant – from breakfast favourites to colourful salads, meze plates to seasonal seafood, ideal for everything from casual poolside lounging to alfresco

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evenings by the water. The Sails Swim-Up Bar is the ultimate way to unwind, with summer spritzes,

bar as guests settle into island time, with regular live acoustic music sets bringing an easy island soundtrack. In addition, the Sails Sunbed Series offers an elevated and effortless way to spend the day, with reserved king-size sunbeds or twin sunlounges and curated food and drink packages. The Sails Sunbed Series includes four options designed to suit different moods, from gentle morning ease to long, leisurely afternoons or Champagne celebrations by the water.

The reopening of Sails is part of a broader transformation across Hamilton Island over the past year –from a revitalised dining landscape, including the return of Executive Chef Ryan Locke to Bommie at the Hamilton Island Yacht Club and Beach Club Restaurant, the April opening of Catseye Pool Club at The Sundays by Josh and Julie Niland, refreshed interiors and menus at South East Asian favourite coca chu, and new menus across qualia's Pebble Beach and Long Pavilion restaurants, to a host of new experiences and island-wide upgrades. Together, these changes are strengthening Hamilton Island's position as Australia's Tropical Island in the heart of the Great

Sails at Hamilton Island has undergone a transformation.

Including Port Lincoln, Ceduna, Streaky Bay, Co in Bay and Fowlers Bay

Including Burra, Martindale Hall and a fire and sing along with Graeme Hugo.

ake Mungo

Broken Hill.

The Armchair Champions are ready for the Super Bowl.

Dog act punished

Man jailed for five years after greyhounds died in bike locker

The man who left his two dogs to die in a bike locker at a railway station has learned his fate, sentenced to five years behind bars.

57-year-old David John Doick, who also goes by the name Sandy Norrie, was last Friday sentenced to a term of imprisonment of five years with a non-parole period of four years at Penrith Local Court after pleading guilty over the death of his two greyhounds.

Doick last year submitted guilty pleas to two counts of recklessly beating and killing an animal; two counts of committing an act of aggravated cruelty upon an animal; two counts of confining an animal in a cage dimensions inadequate for exercise; and two counts of being in charge of an animal and failing to exercise care after the dogs were found in a bike locker at Penrith Station.

On November 19, 2025, Doick locked his two pet greyhounds, named Ebony and Chilli, inside one of the metal bike lockers at Penrith Station on a day where the temperature reached 35.4 degrees.

Police were called to the scene after receiving reports of a dog barking from the locker but were unable to gain access due to the temperature of the metal.

Fire and Rescue NSW were called to the scene and were able to open it revealing the already deceased male and the female

in severe distress. The female was later declared dead.

The animals were determined to have died from exposure to extreme heat and had burns on their bodies.

Doick was identified as the animal’s owner and was arrested by officers from Nepean Police Area Command at 9.30am on Thursday, November 20. The Weekender broke the story in the days following his arrest.

The court heard that Doick placed the animals into the locker as he was having issues with his partner regarding the animals.

Magistrate Fiona Toose acknowledged that at the time of his arrest Doick was quick to corroborate his involvement in the matter as well as his early plea of guilty but said the dogs “suffered horrendous injuries as a result of being locked in the lockers” and “it was a tragic and horrendous event each dog suffered”.

Doick’s lawyer asserted that his client understood the “decision he made was reckless”.

Docik was sentenced to prison from November 20, 2025, to November 19, 2030, with a non-parole period of four years. He has also been banned from owning animals.

Payout after unfair dismissal

A part-time worker has been awarded $7,500 in compensation after the company she worked at was found to have unfairly sacked her after the passing of her grandmother.

Bianca Knott worked for indoor entertainment business Tru Ninja, which is located in Penrith.

Knott worked 22.5 hours a week at the indoor obstacle course, and had worked with the business for a little over a year before her grandmother passed away in September 2025.

She informed her managers she intended to use bereavement and personal leave as she mourned her family member’s passing.

According to a hearing at the Fair Work Commission, disputes over Knott’s leave entitlements and the required evidence of her grandmother’s death then emerged.

Tru Ninja terminated her employment in October, citing serious misconduct over her actions in the days surrounding her leave.

The Fair Work Commission found that Knott was unfairly dismissed.

She was awarded $7,596 in compensation, as well as a superannuation payment of $911.52.

The Commission found reinstatement would not be appropriate.

The ruling was critical of Tru Ninja in not taking into account Knott’s personal circumstances in their communication following the passing of her grandmother.

David Doick has been jailed.

The two greyhounds, Ebony and Chilli.

the western weekender

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Meaningful action still lacking

This week marked 40 years since one of the most devastating crimes Sydney has ever seen rocked the nation to its core.

The rape and murder of Anita Cobby in western Sydney in February 1986 is one of about a dozen murders that is forever etched in Sydney’s story.

Others can quietly disappear as time moves on, but some stick with a city’s people no matter how much time passes. That is certainly the case with the callous killing of a 26-year-old woman with such a promising life ahead of her.

For many, it was the “could have been anyone” factor associated with her murder. Walking home at 10pm on a summer night after a day at work, following her arrival at Blacktown Station and finding no taxis and the phones out of order, she was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The public condemnation of John Travers, Michael Murdoch and Michael, Gary and Les Murphy was so intense that there were calls for the death penalty to be reinstated.

In the case of all five men convicted of Anita Cobby’s murder, there were warning signs. Between them, the five had over 50 prior convictions for offences ranging from robbery and assault to rape and drug use.

So as we remember Anita Cobby this week and a crime that in many ways changed the way women felt about their safety, I pose this question: what have we learned in the last 40 years?

As I thought about the answer to that question this week, I got more and more frustrated. Because the answer is not much.

We’ve all followed the story of Julian Ingram over the past few weeks, the man who allegedly killed three people in Lake Cargelligo and has been on the run ever since. One of those who died was his pregnant former partner, Sophie Quinn.

It has since been revealed that Ingram was on bail for domestic violence charges at the time of the alleged triple-murder. Ingram had six Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) issued against him, including one protecting Quinn, since 2014.

Ingram had been charged two months

INDEX

prior to the alleged murders with stalking or intimidating Quinn, common assault and damaging her property. So why was he out on bail and not on remand, especially given the major shake-up of the state’s bail laws in the wake of Mollie Ticehurst’s death?

The answer? The charges against him were not serious enough.

You read that right.

One ponders that if those bail changes were really just about headlines and governments determined to look like they’re taking action rather than any real reform.

It feels like they were put together by people without any real understanding or knowledge of how domestic violence escalates, and how prior offences – even if not deemed serious enough – are like flashing lights warning you of what is ahead.

“Women should feel safer today than they did in February of 1986. Sadly, I doubt many would say they do.”

It feels utterly bizarre that we work in a system that believes an AVO – essentially a piece of paper – is enough to protect a woman who has been subject to allegedly violent crimes already. It offers about as much protection as a bullet proof vest made out of fly screen mesh.

But of course we have been here before.

Mollie Ticehurst’s killer – her former boyfriend Daniel Billings – had been granted bail just two weeks before he murdered her. He was facing rape and intimidation offences.

Dannielle Finlay-Jones was killed in Cranebrook in 2022. Ashley Gaddie was on bail for a range of offences at the time.

When Mackenzie Anderson was stabbed 78 times by Tyrone Thompson and died in 2022, he had been out on parole for two weeks after serving a prison term for previous offences against her. He breached an AVO, tracked her down and killed her.

I could go on, but the word count limit doesn’t allow it.

40 years since Anita Cobby was murdered, and men out on bail or parole for previous offences are still killing women.

We have learned very little.

I don’t doubt this is a difficult space. Not everyone can be locked away with the key tossed for offences deemed not at the most serious end of the scale.

But we saw how quickly politicians scrambled to change laws in the wake of the Bondi terror attack. How gun laws, immigration and hate speech became national headlines as our leaders scrambled to take action. 15 people died at Bondi, a horrible tragedy. But many more women than that die each year at the hands of men, and a significant number at the hands of their partner or former partner with a history of violence.

The reaction never seems as swift, and we seem to allow history to repeat itself.

Often when I write columns like this or raise this subject, many blokes jump straight to the “it’s not all men” argument.

And that’s true, it isn’t.

But it is some of us.

Too many of us.

Australia needs to make tackling violence against women one of its highest priorities. It needs a complete refresh into how men accused of violent offences are treated by police and the courts in the initial stages, how bail is applied, and how proper protections are put in place.

Because for all the changes, press conferences, white ribbons and tears, nothing that has happened so far has altered all that much.

Women should feel safer today than they did in February of 1986. Sadly, I doubt many

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Care closer to home

Construction of a new Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit at Nepean Hospital is now complete as key government officials tour the site.

Once open, the purpose-built unit will provide specialist mental health care to young people aged between 12 and 17 in the Penrith and Blue Mountains regions.

NSW Minister for Youth and Mental Health Rose Jackson toured the recently completed unit last week, saying it will bring care closer to home for locals.

“This is more than just new beds in a hospital – it is a dedicated recovery space for young people in their most vulnerable moments,” Jackson said.

“It’s so important to have a dedicated and supportive space for young people and their families to access specialised, age-appropriate mental health care that is tailored to their needs.

“The new Nepean Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit will bring care closer to home for people in the Nepean and Blue Mountains regions and will strengthen the network of youth focused mental health services for western Sydney.”

bedrooms with ensuites, communal areas, secure outdoor courtyards, specialised clinical spaces including a sensory room and a media room, learning and recreational spaces and a dedicated carer’s suite.

Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Director of Mental Health Matthew Russell said the unit will grow the care options for young people in the area.

“With the establishment of this new unit, we continue to grow and strengthen mental health care options for young people in this District,” Russell said.

“Created in partnership with young people and their carers, this new unit shows our dedication to providing mental health care that is flexible, compassionate, and family-focused.”

The new unit is expected to be operational by mid-2026 with final preparations underway to ensure the facility and its staff are equipped and ready for patient care.

“I am incredibly grateful that families in Penrith and the Nepean Blue Mountains region will soon have access to specialist care close to home,” McKeown said.

“Designed in collaboration with

State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown also toured the facility and said she was looking forward to seeing the facility up and running in the near future.

young people who know what a healing environment looks like, the unit offers tailored spaces and programs that foster comfort, connection and recovery.

“Supporting the mental wellbeing of young people and the clinicians and staff who care for them is a key priority for this Government. I am

excited to see the finished facility in the coming months.”

The unit’s design comes from a collaboration with young people, their families and carers to ensure the environment is able to provide the best care to meet their unique needs.

The unit features 10 single

Ahead of its opening, the community is being invited to attend a public open day to tour the Nepean Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit on Saturday, February 14 from 9.30am to 1.30pm. The public open day is free, but online bookings are essential at www.nsw. gov.au/nepean-redevelopment.

Anytime Library

Discover the convenience of borrowing books and DVDs while you shop.

Penrith City Library members can now enjoy the ease of borrowing from our new Anytime Library, located at HomeCo Glenmore Park Town Centre.

With 352 books and DVDs ready for you to browse and borrow, it is your perfect quick stop library, open whenever the centre is open.

Returning your items is just as easy! Simply drop them back to the Anytime Library or at our Penrith, St Marys, or St Clair branches.

Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson and Member for Penrith Karen McKeown touring the site.

Police Snapshot Legal Matters LAW and ORDER

Penrith: Operation Percentile targets retail theft.

On Thursday, January 29 police attached to Nepean Police Area Command and Loss Prevention Officers from several retail stores participated in a joint operation targeting theft from retail premises.

A total of 17 offenders, ranging in age from 14 to 40-years-old, were identified for offences including shoplifting, possess prohibited drugs, resist arrest, goods in custody and breach of bail.

Penrith: Early morning public masturbation

At 6am on Thursday, January 29 police responded to a triple zero call in relation to reports that a man was masturbating outside the Penrith PCYC.

Police attended and found a 39-year-old man matching the description with no pants on who was sitting in a grass area visible to the public.

The 39-year-old was arrested and charged with ‘willful and obscene exposure in/ near public place/school’. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, March 13.

Caddens: Woman steals alcohol, later charged

At 4.15pm on Thursday, January 29 a 22-year-old North Parramatta woman attended a liquor store on O’Connell Street in Caddens. The 22-year-old browsed the store while the store attendant was busy serving another customer.

The 22-year-old then took two four packs of pre-packaged alcohol and walked out of the store.

Police were contacted and the 22-year-old woman was later charged. She will appear in Blacktown Local Court on Thursday, February 12.

Penrith: Teenager caught stealing verbally abuses police

On Thursday, January 29 police attached to Nepean Police Area Command were conducting Operation Percentile targeting retail theft across Penrith. At 5.25pm that day Loss Prevention Officers alerted police to a shoplifter at a major shopping centre in Penrith.

Police approached the shoplifter, a 14-yearold girl, and requested that she stop but the girl continued walking with her friends. Police showed their identification, but the 14-year-old and her friends continued walking.

A police officer took hold of the 14-year-old’s

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

arm, but the girl managed to break free from the hold. The 14-year-old was then successfully restrained.

The 14-year-old removed the stolen items from her pants while swearing at police. This was occurring within the shopping centre’s food court which was full of patrons. The 14-year-old was handcuffed and continued to verbally abuse police and attempt to break free from their grip.

The 14-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where she was formally charged. She will appear in a children’s court at a later date.

Penrith: Random assault inside hospital

At 8pm on Thursday January 29 a 34-yearold Cambridge Park man attended a hospital in Penrith. At the same time, a 21-year-old St Marys man was at the same hospital with his carer.

The 34-year-old sat down next to the 21-year-old in the waiting room before the 34-year-old began to poke the 21-year-old in the neck. The 34-year-old also grabbed the 21-year-old’s head and was forcing it down with two hands while making rude comments.

The 34-year-old then placed his knee on the 21-year-olds jaw/shoulder area, putting his weight on the area and remained in that position for six seconds with his crotch in the area of the 21-year-old’s face.

Both the 21-year-old and the 34-year-old walked outside where the 34-year-old punched the 21-year-old in the face. A member of the public intervened and police were alerted.

Police arrived at the hospital and arrested the 34-year-old. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, March 13.

Penrith: Man found carrying knife after trying to steal Lego

At 11.55am on Saturday, January 31 a 37-year-old Penrith man and a child entered a major department store inside a shopping centre in Penrith. The pair walked through the store placing boxes of Lego into a plastic bag, the items totalled $1,791.

The 37-year-old and the child were stopped by Loss Prevention Officers as they exited the store after not making any attempts to pay for the Lego.

Police were called and arrived at the scene.

The 37-year-old was spoken to and searched with police locating a small knife and a quantity of methamphetamine in the 37-year-old’s bag. A second knife was found and removed from the 37-year-old’s underwear.

WITH DANIEL MCKINNON

MY RELATIONSHIP HAS BROKEN DOWN, WHAT SHOULD I DO FIRST?

Unfortunately, relationship breakdowns are a part of life.

Whether you are party to a de facto relationship or marriage that is showing signs of potentially coming to an end, it is important that you understand what your options are and educate yourself about the process of unwinding a relationship.

It is not weak, or disrespectful to hope for the best but prepare for the worst so our number one piece of advice for people who sense that their relationship might be coming to an end is to get some legal advice early.

Understanding what may lay ahead is not condemning your relationship to fail, it is helping to insulate you against what can be an extremely stressful time for both you and your partner.

Relationships come in all shapes and sizes.

You might be in a traditional marriage with a nuclear family and a run of the mill situation. The family home, a few children that you love dearly, and a Labrador.

Perhaps your relationship is less advanced but still significant, like a de facto relationship. You have been living together for a number of years, might not have any children, but your lives are very much intermingled including financial matters like savings and things like real estate investments including your principal place of residence.

For some people, it can get even more complex. Maybe you have been married for decades, have a number of children, various investments in property and other assets, and also have a business you built from the ground up and have worked in together for years.

In all of these cases, bringing your relation-

ship to an end could have legal ramifications.

You need to think about things like how your assets will be divided, if you have children, how custody will be shared and if you have a business you have to consider the practical realities of how the business can continue to operate if the personal relationship of the owners has broken down.

Of course, there are other scenarios where there are far more sinister circumstances to consider. This includes cases of family violence, coercive control and financial and other abuse.

These are very difficult things to grapple with, however, forewarned is forearmed.

Getting advice early about what your options are can help to clear your head so that as you make decisions about the direction in which your relationship is headed you are doing so with as much information as possible.

Our family law team can help you irrespective of what stage you are at.

If you just want to get some confidential advice about what could happen if your relationship takes a turn for the worst we can help with a family law consultation to provide you with some information about the things you need to consider.

If you are in the unfortunate situation where the differences between you and your partner are irreconcilable and you need to unravel things like joint property ownership, combined or shared assets, custody of children, and all other matters pertaining to family law we have an incredibly experienced team ready to help you.

If you want some family law advice, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

CAR CRASHES INTO HOUSE AT COLYTON

An elderly driver was taken to hospital after he crashed into a house at Colyton last week.

The incident happened on Brooker Street around 9am on Thursday, January 29.

Emergency services attended after the black vehicle left the roadway and crashed into the house’s garage and front door.

There was serious damage to the front facade and structural components of the property.

Fire and Rescue NSW attended to stabilise the house, preventing further damage.

Paramedics treated the 74-year-old male driver at the scene before transporting him to hospital.

He did not have serious injuries.

A 49-year-old male resident of the home, who was present at the time, was not injured.

NSW Police also attended and have commenced an investigation.

Anyone with dash cam footage of the incident or with any further information is urged to contact local police.

– Troy Dodds

Hurley able to hit the right note sagain

A locallymade natural supplement is giving people relief from arthritis pain.

He’s known as Australia’s King of Country Rock, and Jade Hurley –together with other octogenarian legends Digger Revell, Dinah Lee, Lucky Starr and 70-something youngster Little Pattie– are currently touring the country with the live stage show The Good Old Days of Rock ’n’ Roll l Hurley is still putting on an energetic show, with one glowing review commenting that “it was impressive that, at age 81, he effortlessly managed to get that right boot up onto the keyboard”

Theshow, whichhe’s written and produced, represents a triumphant return to form. After spending years “battling with the excruciating pain 24 hoursaday” caused by arthritis in his hands, Hurley was facing the devastating consequence that his long and successful career was over

“Playing the piano in my shows became almost impossible,” the OAM recipient says emphatically. Having visiteddoctors andprescribed medications, whichhe laments were “no good, made me depressed and really didn’t help all that much”, he felt he had nothing to lose whena friend suggested he try Arborvitae Joint Health

That was three years ago and Hurley gratefully acknowledges Arborvitae, a

family owned and Australian-made supplement business which has been operating for more than 10 years, as beinga“life and career saver”

Hurley was not alone in his pain

Data from Arthritis Australia shows that 3.6 million people (or one in seven of us) are living with arthritis, a leading cause of chronic pain and the second most common cause of disability and

early retirement due to ill health

Made in Australia from natural ingredients Aloe Vera, Papain enzyme and honey,plus a French pine bark extract, technically known as Pycnogenol, Arborvitae Joint Health is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplement that can enhance healthy joint function, supporting mobility and flexibility

It can also provide relief from the symptoms of mild osteoarthritis, mild joint pain and stiffness

The main ingredient, Pycnogenol, has been widely studied for decades, with more than 160 clinical trials. The results ofa recent study on Arborvitae Joint Health, published in September 2020 in the journal Minerva of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, showed a66 per cent decrease in pain test scores,a50 per cent increase in walking distance without pain and a56 per cent decrease in inflammation in blood tests. All of which lead to an impressive 78 per cent reduction in use of on-demand medications and a50 per cent improvement in quality of life scores

Available in liquid form, stocked in over 2000 chemists and health food stores Australia wide, including Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite Chemmart and Blooms The Chemist, Hurley saysit took about a month to ‘‘really kick in” and he now has “absolutely no problems and almost no pain”.

“First thing in the morningI take it out of the fridge, takethe top off the bottle and havethree to four mouthfuls onan empty stomach,” he explains

While arthritis affects many in older generations, it can begin causing trouble for people as young as 35. Regardless of your age, Hurley advises anyone suffering from the acute pain it causes to give Arborvitae atry “You have absolutely nothing to lose,” he says For Hurley,who’s now back on stage where he belongs, he says Arborvitae has “given me a new life and given me my career back”

I couldn’t believe it! The pain all but disappeared.

sore hands for years due to repetitive injury’s from my work as a cake maker

A friend suggested I try Arborvitae Joint Health. After the first bottle I wasn’t

“A Clinical Study was completed and published in the journal Minerva Orthopedics. Key results from the Arborvitae Joint Health Study showed a: DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

66% DECREASE in pain test scores

And yes! I couldn’t believe it! The pain all but disappeared. The relief that I get isn’t usually met with any other treatments I’ve tried. It is worth every cent! I highly recommend it!”

50% INCREASE in walking distance without pain (100m increase)

56% DECREASE in inflammation in blood tests (CRP/C-reactive protein)

78% REDUCTION in use of on-demand medications

50% IMPROVEMENT in quality-of-life scores

and the clinical study

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

Tracy from North Rocks, NSW

Gary from Kenthurst, NSW

Jade Hurley is back on the road after finding relief from excruciating pain caused by ar thritis

News

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 9 February – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting) Online via

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Culture Fusion is back, bigger and better than ever!

Join us on Saturday 21 February and Sunday 22 February in Queen Street, St Marys, to celebrate Penrith’s diverse multicultural community.

This two-day street festival will feature a fashion show, powerful cultural performances, curated market stalls, interactive workshops, and delicious cuisine from across the globe.

You won’t want to miss Queen Street come alive with a festival of colour to celebrate the UNESCO Observance of International Mother Language Day, promoting language, cultural diversity and our multicultural community.

We’d love to see you there!

• Saturday 21 February, 4–10pm

• Sunday 22 February, 10am–4pm

For more information visit:

● Are you supervising a young adult on their Ls?

Register for our free Helping Learner Drivers Become Safe Drivers Workshop on Wednesday 25 February from 6.30–8pm on Microsoft Teams.

Find out more at

● We’re inviting Penrith residents to join the Access Committee or Multicultural Working Party to help shape Council strategies, events and community initiatives with their expertise and experience. Both committees focus on making Penrith more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Find out more and apply at:

• Access Committee:

• Multicultural Working Party:

Applications close Wednesday 18 February.

● If you’re passionate about our Penrith NAIDOC Event, come along and give your perspective on what you envision the 2026 event to be.

We’re inviting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members to join us for a community yarn on:

• Wednesday 25 February, 1–3pm at the Penrith City Library Theatrette

• Friday 27 February, 9–11am on Microsoft Teams We’ll be sharing stories and discussing the future of the Penrith NAIDOC Event. Find out more at

Development Applications

The following Development Applications have been received by Council:

• Janssen Group Pty Ltd

Mod25/0163 36 First Street, Kingswood

Co-Living Housing Development to modify the external cladding

Contact: Natalie Piggott on 4732 7607

Closing Date: Sunday 22 February 2026

In accordance with Section 4.5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the consent authority for the development application is the Penrith City Council.

• Mirvac Homes (NSW) Pty Ltd Mod26/0004 35-99 Chain-O-Ponds Road, Mulgoa and 2265, 2277–2283, 2285, 2289–2293, 2295 and 2337–2339, The Northern Road, Mulgoa

Strategy for DA23/0955 for Glenmore Park Stage 3 residential subdivision & bulk earthworks (Stages 1 & 2)

Contact: Jacqueline Klincke on 4732 8391

Closing Date: Sunday 22 February 2026

• Nicolas Toubia Mod25/0219

Residential Apartment Development including addition of sixth storey, increase in apartment numbers from 51 to 57 units and other related design amendments

Contact: Natalie Piggott on 4732 7607

Closing Date: Sunday 22 February 2026

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via be able to assist with your enquiries.

By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit

Company chosen to build $16.3 million St Marys park

St Marys Central Park is one step closer to reality with Penrith City Council awarding the Design and Construct Contract for the multi-million-dollar precinct.

At Penrith City Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Monday night Councillors voted to endorse Mulgrave company Regal Innovations being awarded the design and construct contract for the price tag of a whopping $16,388,832.80.

St Marys Central Park was identified as a key piece of the St Marys puzzle within the St Marys Town Centre Master Plan and the St Marys Town Centre Place Plan.

“The Central Park project is a priority action in both plans, positioned as a catalyst for transformation, unlocking private investment, improving access and amenity and reinforcing Queen Street as the town centre’s civic and commercial spine,” a Council report said.

“Located adjacent to several key development sites and within walking distance of the train station, the park has been strategically sited to serve as the Civic Heart.” Council advertised a tender for the park’s contract last year and shortlisted seven applicants to make submissions.

Of the seven shortlisted companies only two made formal submissions for the contract: Regal Innovations and Badgerys Creek company Greater West Landscapes, which quoted $20,798,074.70.

Designs for the park have been partially

completed but will now be finalised after the endorsement of Regal Innovations as the park’s design and construction contractor.

80 per cent of the detailed design for St Marys Central Park has been completed and reviewed by Council’s internal Design Advisory Group and Project Control Group, both of which provide technical input throughout the design process.

“An external Quantity Surveyor worked with the Lead Designer to confirm the design can be delivered within the approved budget,” the Council report said.

“Further design development is on hold until a Principal Contractor is appointed, who will progress the design from 80 per cent to 100 per cent and issue for construction documentation, with the Lead Designer’s team, to be novated to the Principal Contractor upon award of the Contract.”

The park will feature an entertainment area, a fenced children’s play space with water play, a lawn area, amenities building, water features, pathways and shaded picnic tables and seating.

Penrith Deputy Mayor Garion Thain is looking forward to the next stages of the park.

“What I love about this project is that it delivers improved amenity and public spaces for St Marys here and now, as well as being fit for a future St Marys that has more residents, more workers and more visitors from the Metro,” he said.

“It's public servants being proactive instead of reactive, like with the Town Centre Masterplan."

Construction will begin this year.

Dangerous black spots to be fixed under new funding

Penrith City Council has identified multiple roads across Penrith in need of fixing and secured over $2 million in funding for the upgrades.

Council has received the funding to implement the improvements as part of the Federal Government’s Black Spot Program.

Five projects will be undertaken with $850,000 to be spent on the Greygums Road and Laycock Street intersection in Cranebrook to introduce a roundabout with additional lighting, a pedestrian refuge and traffic calming upgrades.

On Lethbridge Street in Penrith, $500,000 will be spent to introduce lighting and a raised pedestrian crossing at Doonmore Street and traffic calming upgrades at Evan Street and Colless Street.

The intersection of Seventh Avenue and Terrybrook Road in Llandilo will see raised traffic islands with STOP treatment, lighting, the installation of a flexible barrier and upgrade to non-skid road seal for $462,500.

$305,600 will be spent on Victoria Street between Burton Street and Lethbridge Avenue in Werrington for lighting, traffic calming upgrades and the installation of a flexible barrier.

And at Oxley Park $245,000 has been allocated to the intersection of Hobart Street and Melbourne Street for lighting, traffic calming upgrades and the installation of a flexible barrier.

Together Council will receive $2,363,100 in funding for the five projects.

“Funding of $2,363,100

for the 2025/26 Black Spot Program should be recognised as a noteworthy achievement for Council,” a report to Councillors at Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting said.

“It is expected that the resulting accident remediation treatments will result in improved levels of traffic safety and a reduction in accidents on local and regional roads within the Local Government Area.”

The five projects will be 100 per cent funded by the Black Spot Program, leaving no financial risk to Council.

“There are minor (acceptable) risk implications to Council in terms of delivery

Warning over weight loss drugs

ALLANAH

While weight-loss medications are often hailed as wonder drugs for improving the lives of people battling obesity, dietitians are increasingly concerned about the lack of research into long-term nutritional health impacts.

At least half a million Australians are taking weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro every month, with popularity continuing to increase despite a shortage of the drugs.

Nutrition and dietetics professor Clare Collins believes there is a “blind spot” in current research on the side-effects to these medications, and says nutritional intake is often overlooked in trials.

Little is known about whether people using these drugs are receiving adequate nutrition, she warns.

“We’re trying to ring a bell really loudly,” Professor Collins told AAP.

Research released on Tuesday by the

Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle found that, out of 41 randomised controlled trials on popular GLP-1/GIP medications over the past 17 years, only two studies involving adults

measured or reported dietary intake, and one of those remains unpublished.

GLP-1/GIP are receptor agonists that suppress appetite and reduce overall food intake, which many weight-loss medications are designed to mimic.

“These drugs are very expensive, they’re very powerful and they work. But the nutritional status is not on the radar and (it’s) putting people at long-term risk of nutrient deficiencies and or malnutrition,” Collins said.

While people using weight-loss medications may appear healthier due to reduced body weight, inadequate nutrition can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic complications, inflammation and long-term chronic conditions, including some cancers.

There have also been reports of thiamine (vitamin B) deficiencies and protein malnutrition, which, if not addressed, can progress to a permanent neurological condition, Collins warned.

timeframe for the 2025/26 funded projects, however we believe the delivery target of 30 June 2028 can be achieved,” the Council report said.

“The program provides for 100 per cent funding, hence there are limited risk implications as Council has a proven track record of over 15 years now in delivery of high-quality projects under these grants.”

Road safety advocate and Independent Councillor Glenn Gardiner welcomed the funding but said there is always more work to be done.

“You may have seen me once or twice argue for some upgrades on dangerous intersections, this one on Seventh Avenue was not one of those but it is one we’ve spoken of quite a lot,” Gardiner said.

“In fact, only last week there was a big Facebook post on the Llandilo community page specifically about this intersection and so the timing couldn’t be better. I do remain concerned about other intersections particularly in the rural north…” Councillor Reece Nuttall also welcomed the funding and commended Council staff for their work in securing it.

COMPUL SORY ACQUISITION OF L AND – ROADS ACT 1993

Attention is invited to the notice published in Government Gazette No 15 of Friday, 23 January 2026 reference [NSWGG-2026-15-2] regarding the compulsory acquisition of land for road purposes at Glenmore Park and Regentville in the Penrith City Council area and said to be in the possession of Penrith City Council (registered proprietor) and Transport for NSW (lessee).

(TfNSW Papers: SF2024/169326)

M Knibb

Statutory Land Transactions Manager Transport for NSW

Contact: For full details call Transport for NSW on (02) 8202 1220.

Weight loss drugs are in the spotlight.

SCIBERRAS, AAP

A render of what St Marys Central Park will look like.

Lethbridge Street will receive road upgrades. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Victoria Street between Burton Street and Lethbridge Avenue will receive road upgrades.

EMILY CHATE

EMILY CHATE

ake your new year with Cricut Joy Xtra Bundle! With everything you need to get making straight out of the box, this delightful bundle is the perfect sidekick to make this season truly unique. Create personalised décor, matching holiday t-shirts, one-of-a-kind holiday cards, labels, gift tags, custom stickers, and more. Personalise, customise and organise until your heart’s content, perfect for the holidays and beyond! The Cricut Joy Xtra Bundle is available now from Harvey Norman or OfficeWorks for $399 RRP. The Weekender has a Cricut Joy Xtra Bundle to give away. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Cricut' in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Monday, February 16 and the winner will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

Renewables Business Development Manager

•

Are you successful in generating new business with a proven sales history determined to earn unlimited commissions and part of a great company?

MKG Electrical are looking to onboard a Business Development Specialist which will assist in growing our current client database within the renewables sector. You will be responsible for driving sales within the electrical and renewable sectors.

Successful candidates will have the following:

• Experience in Solar & Battery sales preferred but not essential

• B2B sales experience

• Proven sales experience

• Experience in an autonomous position providing you the opportunity to plan your own week

• Excellent communication, time management and team working skills

• A commitment to working safely in your environment

• Full Drivers Licence

• Working with Childrens Check

•

Assist with the cleaning of our venue and on-site accommodation. An ideal second job, flexible work environment.

Job Description:

• Housekeeping and cleaning

• Typical shifts within school hours 9am - 2pm (Monday-Friday)

• No set shifts (subject to booking activity)

Please email your resume to bookings@castlereagh.org.au

Solar Labourer & Leading hand

MKG Electrical has been operating in Sydney since 2015 providing quality electrical works across the commercial, industrial and residential space. We mainly work within Sydney Metro and are currently looking for another fulltime BDM to onboard.

Electrician

• Renovations and new builds

• Solar System installations

• Battery installations

ABOUT THE ROLE ABOUT THE ROLE ABOUT YO U ABOUT YO U

• • Solar & Battery Accredited preferred

• Switchboard upgrades

• LED lighting upgrades

• Maintenance work

As our newest team member, you will have: Please send your resume to info@mkgelectrical.com.au

ABOUT THE ROLE ABOUT YO U

Successful candidates will have the following:

We are seeking an experienced Solar Labourer & Leading hand to join our dynamic team at MKG Electrical Pty Ltd in Penrith, NSW In this full-time role, you will be responsible for supporting the installation and maintenance of solar power systems, as well as leading construction/trades role

Here at MKG Electrical our work varies and is not limited to:

• The ability to supervise/mentor apprentices

• • Excellent communication, time management and team working skills

• A commitment to working safely in your environment

• Australian Electrical Licence

• Yellow card

ABOUT US ABOUT US

• Full Drivers Licence

• • Working with Childrens Check

MKG Electrical has been operating in Sydney since 2015 providing quality electrical works across the commercial, industrial and residential space.

We mainly work within Sydney Metro and are currently looking for another fulltime tradesman to onboard, preferably an SAA battery and solar accredited tradesman although this can be discussed.

Please send your resume to info@mkgelectrical.com.au

•

• • Strong understanding of solar energy systems and installation processes

• practices

• Minimum of 1-2 years experience in solar labourer or similar trades role

ABOUT US

• our residential and commercial customers.

Our team of skilled professionals is passionate about the transition to renewable energy and is committed to

If you are an experienced Solar Labourer & Leading hand who is passionate about renewable energy and excited to join a dynamic team, we encourage you to apply now.

Please send your resume to info@mkgelectrical.com.au or call 02 8630 2754 for more information.

Jobs For The West is a special Western Weekender initiative, o ering free job advertisements if the job is located within the Penrith Local Gove rnment Area. This initiative is all about connec ting local people with local jobs. Email y our job ads to jobs@westernweekender.com.au.

Please note there is no guarantee of a job ad being listed, as space is limited. Jobs For The West is made possible by suppor ting partners Panthers Group and Western Sydney Publishing Group.

Interest rate rise hits home owners

Local mortgage holders have been dealt a huge blow with interest rates increased by 0.25 per cent.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) confirmed the rate rise on Tuesday afternoon.

The official cash rate is now at 3.85 per cent.

Banks and lenders have been moving swiftly this week to pass on the increase to customers.

It means mortgage holders with a $750,000 mortgage will need to find around $120 a month in additional payments.

Graham Cooke, Head of Consumer Research at Finder, said the RBA is sending a clear signal that the inflation genie isn’t back in the bottle just yet.

“Our research showed mortgage stress on average had started to subside – expect it to rise with a vengeance as monthly payments jump,” he said.

“If inflation persists, expect more of last year’s mortgage stress relief to be wiped away.”

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said a rise in government spending shouldn’t be blamed for higher mortgage payments.

“That uptick in that data was primarily holiday spending, but it was also the withdrawal of the energy rebates,” he told ABC Radio.

“There were some persistent pressures there in housing and there were some weather related factors as well. But overall, we know that inflation is higher than we would like.”

Board shake-up a possibility

The club’s by-laws prevent candidates from using the media – including traditional outlets and social media – to make statements around their candidacy, or the candidacy of others.

Candidates are also prevented from distributing documents, making public statements or advertising in or around any Panthers club premises or property.

However, those rules are known to be often blurred.

The Western Weekender has sighted a flyer this week asking for the word to be spread “discretely” about voting for five particular candidates, and pushing for Chairman Peter Graham to not retain his position on the Board.

The club is aware of the document.

The Weekender also notes that the Board Nominations page on the Panthers Group corporate website is not indexed on Google.

It means small paragraphs on the club’s corporate website is essentially the only way candidates can explain to members why they have nominated to join the Board and what they hope for the future of Panthers.

While there is no suggestion that is deliberate, it makes finding out information about the election more challenging.

Voting will take place in the Panthers Leagues Club foyer on Friday, February 13 between 12pm and 6pm; Saturday, February 14 between 12pm and 6pm; Sunday, February 15 between 10am and 6pm and Monday, February 16 between 10am and 12pm.

Members who are elected as Directors of Penrith District Rugby League Football Club automatically become Directors of Penrith Rugby League Club Ltd.

Peter Lang. Greg Alexander.

Alan Harding. Peter Graham. Mark Mulock.

Rob Wearn.

Victor Shipley.

Belinda Leonard.

Putting the west first

Glenmore Park broker chooses western Sydney for launch of new business

ALLY HALL

Meet Mark Stevenson, the billion-dollar-broker bringing small town values into the world of finance.

Founder and Managing Director of Evolve Lending in Parramatta, the Glenmore Park resident's upbringing has shaped the way he conducts business in Sydney’s second city.

“I grew up around O’Connell and Black Springs in the central west of New South Wales on 25 acres and it was the best upbringing,” Stevenson recounted.

“My dad was a management accountant; he was very numbers based and he worked for truck companies. He used to love working with very down-to-earth people. I think I get that from him.

“My stepfather was a farmer and had a bull broking business in Oberon, so I think a lot of my ethics and my way of going about things came

from him. I also had a really good business studies teacher at school who I looked up to.”

Prior to moving into his office at 3 Parramatta Square, the broker worked in Sydney’s CBD with Bell Partners. However, the finance guru believes Parramatta is a better location when it comes to vibrancy, business, and his target audience.

“I’m passionate about helping the people that need it,” Stevenson explained.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with a lot of clients with a very high net worth, and I’ve also been very lucky to work with people who are buying their first car or buying their first home. I like being able to say that it doesn’t matter if you’re coming in for a $5,000 personal loan or a $5 million property purchase - you get the same service.

“It’s all about helping as many people as possible and treating every client the same.”

Stevenson became a broker in 2011 with Mortgage Choice

MEGA BREKKIE

until a restructure in 2013 prompted a solo mission.

“In September that year I decided it was the right time to do something on my own,” Stevenson narrated.

“My twins were born in March that year and my family had just moved back out to western Sydney when I decided to quit my job and start my own business –Nepean Financial.

“I went headlong into that for about nine months and then the opportunity with Bell Partners came up. I only got to live out my dream of being my own boss for nine months.”

That change was for the best, fast-tracking Stevenson’s career and giving him more experience, insight, knowledge, and exposure in finance.

“Bell Partners had access to a certain level of clientele and they were dealing with some of Australia’s most wellknown celebrities, sports stars and high net worth people, all the way down to

your average mum and dad having a go,” Stevenson said.

“It was a good foundation for me to build and grow a team and gain a lot of expertise in terms of dealing with accountants, financial planners, and complex financial situations.

“I hit being a billion-dollar-broker around three or four years ago.”

With Evolve Lending, Stevenson feels like he’s picking up where he left off in June 2014 with Nepean Financial.

“I’m excited, and I think the name ‘Evolve’ was a good choice because it represents the journey and moving on to the next stage of my career,” the broker explained.

“With Evolve Lending, I’m very passionate about having a business that’s efficient and looks after its clients.

“These days, I’m more focused and interested in working on the business and giving other staff the opportunity to do the face-to-face client meetings.”

Mark Stevenson. Photo: Melinda Jane.

$500 million upgrade of local Defence site

The Orchard Hills Defence Establishment will undergo a major redevelopment, with the construction of new explosive ordnance storage part of the plan.

The Federal Government will spend more than $500 million to upgrade the base facilities and construct the storage buildings.

Hansen Yuncken has been contracted to deliver upgrade works to Defence Establishment Orchard Hills, including for security and infrastructure and new training and working facilities at a value of $298 million, with expected construction completion in early 2029.

This project is expected to create 600 direct employment opportunities for engineers, plant operators, and tradespeople.

ADCO Constructions will provide guided weapons and explosive ordnance storage buildings at a value of $210 million, with construction expected to be completed in late 2027, creating 300 direct jobs.

“The Albanese Government is delivering a defence future made in Australia and creating thousands of well-paid jobs for locals with this major investment in infrastructure that is critical to our national security,” Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said.

“This is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to establish a sovereign missile manufacturing industry which will make Australia more self-reliant and ensure the ADF has what it needs to keep Australians safe.”

The Orchard Hills base currently employs

approximately 700 people, including contractors and Defence personnel.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney welcomed the commitment.

“It’s really important defence industry is within our Penrith local area. We have played our part for many, many years, whether it’s

through facilities like this in Orchard Hills, whether it’s the former ADI site in north Penrith,” he said.

“It’s been a great asset to our community and been able to create local jobs.”

Conroy dismissed safety concerns about missiles being stored in such a populated part of Sydney.

“There are very expensive buffer zones both within the facility, within the land of the facility and outside it in woodland,” he said.

“Importantly, we have accommodation on site.

“Defence staff live here regularly, and so the safety of this facility if anything is increasing because we’re investing in the latest technology around earth-covered bunkers. So this facility is very safe. We are following world best regulation.”

Carney said he had “no misgivings at all” about the facility being built in Penrith.

“It’s been a well-maintained facility over many, many years. But it’s great to see that investment come back into this area to make sure the security is right,” he said.

“I’m glad to see the Federal Government is actively investing in this local facility to make it safer, but also to make sure our country is safer at the same time.”

Attendees at last week’s announcement in Orchard Hills.

Storm brings outages

Restaurants forced to close as power is cut following summer storm

in Penrith

The storm rolls over Penrith on Sunday.

Asummer storm rolled across Penrith on Sunday, bringing with it heavy rain and major power disruptions that lasted into the evening.

Dale Martin / www.dalemphoto.com.au.

The Penrith CBD was without power for several hours.

It left a number of restaurants, including popular Chinese restaurant Happy Inn, unable to seat and

Prue back following treatment

Londonderry MP Prue Car is back at work this week after seven months of treatment for breast cancer.

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Western Sydney and Education Minister said it had been a difficult period, but she was excited to return to work.

“I have been incredibly lucky to receive an amazing amount of love and support – from my husband Brad and our children, from my colleagues and from the community I am proud to represent,” Car said.

“Thank you to the incredible team at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse. I’m in awe of what they do every single day.

“Thank you to NSW Premier Chris Minns. Just as he has supported so many across NSW in tough times,

he has supported me and my family every step of the way through this difficult period.”

Car also thanked Courtney Houssos who had stepped in as Acting Education Minister and Acting Minister for Western Sydney.

“The experience of overcoming breast cancer has certainly changed me,” she said.

“What hasn’t changed is my unwavering commitment to deliver for the people of New South Wales, for the beautiful community I represent in western Sydney, as well as continuing our nation-leading reform program in education across New South Wales.”

Deputy Mayor Garion Thain said he was “in awe” of Car’s attitude towards her treatment.

serve customers. 30mm of rain fell in Penrith in the space of an hour between 4pm and 5pm on Sunday.

Local photographer Dale Martin

captured the incredible scene as the storm rolled across Penrith from his drone over Werrington County.

After an unseasonable cold few days, warm summer weather

returns to Penrith to finish the week.

A top of 36 degrees is predicted today, with 34 tomorrow and 35 on Saturday.

Photo:

State Member for Londonderry, Prue Car, has returned to work following a cancer battle.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Brewery run clubs boom

ALLY HALL

It’s hard to understand the feel-good connection between socialising and sweating simultaneously, but the popularity of run clubs in Penrith proves there’s value in it!

There are multiple run club options across the Nepean region; two of which stem from local breweries: Squinters Brewing Co and Mountain Culture Beer Co.

“Every café or brewery have their own run club,” noted Squinters Director and Co-founder Mitchell Robinson.

“You could probably run every night of the week somewhere in Penrith with some kind of group.”

The Squinters Sprinters Run Club started over two years ago and has now racked up around 220 members. They also organise a ‘Brewery Run’ to other venues twice a year and sponsor local running events.

“We normally get 20 runners on a slow week and up to 60 if weather permits.

I’m there every Thursday at

6pm and I get to see friends and meet new people all the time,” Robinson said.

“We started this run club because it was a good excuse to lock in a 5km run to get some exercise once a week, and it’s great for socialising and catching up with people over a beer and a feed.

“After the run finishes it’s a great atmosphere. Everyone rolls in over a 10-minute period, catches their breath, has some water, and settles in for an hour or two.”

Squinters Sprinters has a $30 sign-up fee which includes a hat, a water bottle, and a discount on tap drinks and food.

Meanwhile, on a Wednesday night at 6pm, runners take off from Mountain Culture in Emu Plains for their choice of a 3km or 6km run.

“Mountain Culture is community and adventure driven, and when I started working here over 12 months ago, I recognised that we had the platform to be able to do something for the community,” said Emu Plains Venue Manager Matt

Van Der Valk.

“Run clubs have gained popularity over the past five years… we’re just trying to give people in our community a platform to have some fun, meet some new people, do some running, and then come back for a chat over Australia’s

best beer.” Blaxland resident Craig is one of the regulars at the run club.

“I run every day and I love Mountain Culture beers, so as soon as they started a run club, I thought it was perfect. For me, running is not just about phys-

ical health, it’s about mental health,” Craig stated, before run club member Jason chimed in.

“He runs every day and he has a run streak of 455 days as of tonight,” Jason declared.

“I haven’t missed a day – I even had to run in Singapore Airport while coming back from Europe,” Craig said.

And Craig isn’t the only revolutionary runner in the club; it turns out Emu Heights local Jason played a hand in the run club's beginning.

“I used to do a lot of runs in the mornings, and I would

meet people at cafes around the lower Blue Mountains, go for a run, and come back for coffee. I liked that, but I also like beer. So, I suggested we go for a beer run in the afternoon and found a 6km loop for Mountain Culture in April last year,” Jason explained. The Mountain Culture Run Club is free to join and every run finishes with a free beer. Other run clubs in Penrith include the One Percent Run Club, Girl Run Club, and Parkrun at Penrith Lakes, Werrington Lakes, and Nepean River.

Georgia and Matt. Photo: Ally Hall.

Squinters Sprinters Run Club.

HONOURING A MATE

Panthers legend Mark Geyer leads emotional fundraiser

ALLY HALL

The absence of Toby Hughes has been felt in Penrith since he passed away at 50-years-old in July last year.

The dealer principal at Sinclair Hyundai suffered a heart attack, not knowing that he had heart disease.

In his honour, former Panther and owner of MG Activ Mark Geyer organised the inaugural ‘Walk for Tobes’ which took place last weekend to raise funds and awareness for The Heart Foundation Australia.

“Today is Toby’s birthday and he would have been 51, so we thought we would try and honour his legacy by putting together something that he would have hated doing –walking 20 kilometres,” Geyer told the Weekender on January 31.

“He would find the irony in it.”

The group of 250 walkers wore T-shirts with Toby’s face on them as they completed nine laps around Jamison Park.

They raised $11,000 on the day, and Penrith City Council later donated $3,000.

“More awareness is needed because 70 per cent more men pass away from heart disease than women,” Geyer stated.

“Our lifestyles catch up to us; it’s not that we can’t have the lifestyle that we want, but we have to make sure we’re staying on top of things and get blood checks every six months and a heart check once a year. I want everyone to be aware that it could happen to anybody.”

Geyer rallied a lot of support for the fundraiser, with former teammates Greg Alexander and Royce Simmons getting involved, as well as 2GB colleagues including Paul Gallen, Josh Morris and James Maloney, and Penrith's Mayor Todd Carney.

“Toby was an infectious, beautiful man with five kids.

He would do anything for anyone,” Geyer explained.

“He was like a brother to me, and it was such a shock when he passed. We’re probably still grieving to be honest.

“When his parents came today, they started crying because they saw his face everywhere. It’s an emotional day, but he was a great bloke and I’m glad we can honour him in this way.”

Gai Hawthorn from Penrith CBD Corp helped organise the morning, praising the event’s volunteers.

“We have Rotary Club of Penrith here and they have made a beautiful barbecue breakfast and have brought water. Hyundai have chipped in with health bars and water,” Hawthorn began listing.

“All the team from MG Activ have been amazing; the gym members came this morning and helped everyone set up.

“We have St Johns volunteering their time here, as well as Heart of Football who go around to football clubs and do health checks. You can get your pin prick and a health check done on your heart and your sugar levels.”

‘Walk for Tobes’ will be held on the same weekend next year.

Empowering Lives Through Partnership

DEAR WEEKENDER

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

World’s Greatest Shave

As Australian children return to school, hundreds will not. Their desks sit empty as they fight blood cancer – the single biggest disease threatening the lives of school-aged children in Australia today. This year alone, around 350 children will be diagnosed with blood cancer. It now accounts for more than one in three childhood cancers, yet remains a largely hidden national tragedy. A blood cancer diagnosis is sudden and brutal. Children are forced out of classrooms and into hospital wards, enduring aggressive treatment that can last years. Many miss 40 to 60 per cent of school in their first year alone, with some absent for up to 18 months. Over the past two decades, blood cancer incidence among children aged five to 14 has risen by almost 30 per cent. If this trend continues, more than 400 children a year could face this devastating diagnosis within the next decade. At the Leukaemia Foundation, we see the toll this takes on children and families every day – emotionally, financially and socially. While we provide vital accommodation, transport, education and support services, and invest in life-saving research, we cannot do it alone. As the World’s Greatest Shave launches nationally, I urge Australians to stand with these children and all Australians impacted by blood cancer. Participating by shaving, cutting or colouring your hair helps ensure no person faces blood cancer without support. Register to participate in the World’s Greatest Shave at worldsgreatestshave.com or call 1800 500 088.

CHRIS TANTI CEO, LEUKAEMIA FOUNDATION

Salvos are here to help The start of the new year brings with it an array of opportunities. For us at the Salvos, it is an opportunity to reflect on the Christmas season that has just passed, and more specifically show our gratitude for the generosity shown by the Australian public for our Christmas Appeal. Once again, Aussies came together to support their fellow Australians in need. If it wasn’t for your support, kids would have gone without presents under the tree, families without a special Christmas meal and many without hope and joy during the festive season. For this, we say thank you. The new year also gives us all an opportunity to set ourselves up for the year ahead. That is why our financial counselling service, Moneycare, is encouraging all Australians to take a fresh look at their finances this year. Our recent research found that 44 per cent of Australians are starting this New Year in debt, 45 per cent say they feel pressure to spend more than they can afford and 24 per cent find it difficult to even create a budget. The Salvos Moneycare service offers free and confidential financial counselling to thousands of Aussies each year, helping them to get on top of their finances. They can help you create a budget, support you to get out of debt, sit with you to create realistic money plans, and everything in between. So don’t start the new year on the wrong foot. Do a financial check up this new year to avoid stress later in the year. And if you are struggling to cope financially, please reach out to The Salvation Army’s Moneycare service.

KRISTEN HARTNETT

ARMY

SALVATION

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

Mark Geyer and Mayor Todd Carney prepare to Walk for Tobes.

Physie in the spotlight

Local club achieved enormous success in 2025, and this year could be even bigger

NATHAN TAYLOR

Mulgoa Valley Physie has danced its way into the spotlight in 2025, celebrating a year of outstanding achievements, national recognition and remarkable growth across all ages.

Leading the charge was local star Lila Butchard, who was crowned The Edith Parsons School of Physical Culture National Champion for her age group for the second straight year.

After the excitement of her 11 Years National title in 2024, Lila being awarded the 12 Years National Champion in 2025 was a powerful and unforgettable moment, one

that filled her club with pride and perfectly captured what years of dedication, resilience and passion can achieve.

Mulgoa Valley Physie sent six representatives to the National Championships, spanning multiple age groups. Alongside Lila’s National success, Alandria Waters delivered an exceptional performance to be awarded National Dance Champion in the 10 Years section, while Melissa Foss achieved an impressive sixth place in the Advanced Ladies (Group 3) Final – all competing at the highest level of the sport.

Team success was equally impressive throughout the 2025 season.

Mulgoa Physie entered eight teams

in the EP Physie Sydney Zone Teams competition, which showcased the club’s incredible depth.

Their 7/8 Years team, supported by Lithgow Physie Club, captured an outstanding second place, impressing judges with their confidence, maturity and teamwork.

Both 11/12 Years teams were awarded Highly Commended,

reflecting their strong technique and teamwork.

Their 15/16 Years team, supported by Lawson Springwood Physie Club, also received a Highly Commended, highlighting the power of collaboration and shared passion across clubs.

In a truly historic milestone, Mulgoa Valley Physie entered four

Advanced Ladies teams across two sections, a feat almost unheard of in EP Physie. The results were strong, with teams proudly awarded fourth place, sixth place and sixth place in the Sydney Zone competition. Ahead of the upcoming 2026 season, Mulgoa Valley Physie Club says it welcomes new members of all ages and abilities.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Innovative solutions save resources

Penrith City Council is a proud leader in sustainability. We are continually looking for new ways to make positive changes for this City, our people and the environment.

I’m pleased to share that Council has again been recognised for one of our latest waste management initiatives at the recent Local Government NSW Environment Awards.

This recognition was for our Threads and Treads project – a forward-thinking textile and bicycle repair initiative that has diverted 9.2 tonnes of waste from landfill.

We hosted bike drop-off and recycling days, repair and tune workshops, vacation care education sessions, a clothes swap, pop-up stall and stitching workshops.

I want to give you – our community - a special shout out because the success of this project is all thanks to your enthusiastic participation.

With support from our partners, these events connect and educate our community to become more resource conscious and consider how materials can be reused, which contributes to the circular economy.

Textiles and bikes can’t be disposed of

through usual kerbside bin collections, so this provides a waste management solution while teaching valuable skills. Visit penrith.city/waste to learn more.

More efficient use of resources is a priority for us. That’s why Penrith is proud to be the first council in Australia to take part in an exciting water stewardship project.

We’ve collaborated with SWAN Systems to use advanced water management software, that monitors satellite imagery and weather forecasts, to optimise our water consumption.

Through this project, we are reducing water usage at some of our irrigated local sports fields by up to 30 per cent, at no cost to Council or the community. This will help green the fields and improve open spaces for our growing City.

Initiatives like this set new benchmarks for local government. For us, they help meet Penrith’s long-term sustainability goals and support our efforts through the Green Grid Strategy, Cooling the City Strategy and Resilient Penrith Action Plan. For more information, go to penrith.city/ sustainability.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Lila Butchard.

Alandria Waters. Melissa Foss.

Mulgoa Valley Physie’s 7/8 Years Team.

Δ Shopping centre makeover: Kingswood Park Village is no more, with the shopping complex to be re-branded as North Penrith Marketplace. It will be officially launched on March 7 with a new supermarket offering and every shop space filled.

Δ Bachelor's handbag makeover: Coles is coming in sizzling this month with the launch of a limited-edition Peri Peri Hot Roast RSPCA Approved Chicken now available in stores nationally. A fresh take on a deli classic, this new roast chicken certainly packs a punch with peri peri infused roasted skin, a flavourpacked brine and spiced herb couscous

Δ Slice of goodness: Well & Good has announced its latest innovation, the Gluten Free Raspberry Coconut Slice Mix, now available at Woolworths and selected IGA stores. Inspired by a much-loved family recipe, the Gluten Free Raspberry Coconut Slice Mix is designed to deliver a nostalgic, bakery-style slice at home with minimal effort. It caters to the growing number of Australians seeking convenient, allergy-friendly baking options without compromising on taste or texture.

end, and dipped in choc with more cookie pieces on the other. It’s a snacking experience that puts the biccie side in the spotlight – and might just spark a fresh debate over ‘which side first’. It's available now in supermarkets.

stuffing delivering customers yet another choice for grab-and-go goodness – available for $13.50 each.

Δ Maxibon goes full cookie: Maxibon is jumping on the cookie bandwagon with the release of Maxibon Choc Chip Cookie. The new Bon features a cookie dough flavoured slab full of choc chips, sandwiched between two fully loaded choc chip cookies on one

Δ El Jannah does dessert: Meet Baklawa, the ultimate sweet ending to your El Jannah meal. Now available at all El Jannah restaurants nationwide, Baklawa is flaky, nutty, indulgent, and officially the perfect way to end a legendary charcoal chicken feast. There are two flavours released so far: Original Walnut and Chocolate Hazelnut, and yes, they're as good as they sound!

Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about product launches, new stores and all the other gossip around town. Email news@westernweekender.com.au with your contributions.

Taken in 1948, these photos show High Street in Penrith looking west towards the Blue Mountains. The Melrose Fish & Chip Shop can be seen on the right of the left photo, with a guest house above it.

Taken at the intersection of what is now Lawson Street, the Bank of New South Wales building can be seen on the left. There's plenty of parked cars on both sides of the

In business, “sustainability” can feel like a buzzword that belongs to big corporations with even bigger budgets. But here in western Sydney, we see small and medium-sized businesses also driving change, showing growth and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

Sustainability marketing isn’t about green logos or fluffy promises. It’s about aligning what you sell, how you operate and what you stand for, so your marketing tells an honest story that attracts customers who share your values. When done right, it builds loyalty, reduces costs, and gives your business a competitive edge; especially as government and corporate procurement increasingly favour suppliers who are

making a positive impact on planet and people.

Think of it as future-proofing your brand. Whether you’re a manufacturer, café owner or service provider, your customers care about where their products come from and what happens after they’ve used them.

Authentically showing how you’re thinking about the environment and community – even in small ways – builds trust.

Penrith businesses are already leading the way: from cutting energy usage, increasing recycling, using compostable packaging and supporting those in need in

our local community. These aren’t lofty ideals, they’re smart business moves that keep money and opportunity right here in our region. What you can do this week: Look at one part of your business, for example your energy usage, packaging or supply chains, and ask: “Can I make this more sustainable and tell that story clearly to my customers?” Start small, be genuine, and keep the conversation going.

Blaxland

McDonald's

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Dan Murphy's

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

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 lenbrook

Glenbrook Newsagency

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Takeaway

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo

IGA

Londonderr y Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t

IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Little Bottler

MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt

RM Newsagency

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Ca fé Fre d

Au stralian Arms

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hog's Bre ath C afé

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Markets (Thursdays)

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern RE/MAX

Sittano’s Restaurant

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

Queen

St Mar ys Diggers

Monfar ville Corner Store

McDonald's St Mar ys South

Dux of the College Class of 2025

Elizabeth Godwin

to the Class of 2025Congratulations

Penrith Anglican College proudly celebrates the achievements of the Class of 2025. Through dedication, determination, and purposeful learning, their commitment, resilience, and growth. We congratulate every student on their efforts and the many milestones reached along the way.

ATAR 90+

Band 6 & E4 Achievers

• Mikaela Armstrong

• Montana Barry

• Josephine Birtles

• Brianna Campbell

• Colby Carroll

• Aaron Chavez-Palpan

• Ellison Game

• Rishelle George

• Elizabeth Godwin

• Zoe Hoesterei

• Chelsea Jenkins

• Thomas Jones

• Gabrielle Kennedy

• Teagan Kumar

• Anokshihaa Kirubananthan (Year 10 accelerant)

• Claire Nicholls

• Edison Noakes

• Connor OShannessy

• Alyssa Premutico

• Jessy Schoebel

• Aahana Saha

• Andi Simmons

• Neil Singhal

• Kupakwashe Tirivazvo

• Charlotte White

• Daniel Xu

HSC Showcase Selections & Nominations

Celebrating creativity, innovation and state-wide recognition:

ARTEXPRESS Selection

• Montana Barry

• Colby Carroll

• Sara Wildsmith

ARTEXPRESS Nominations

• Zoe Hoesterei

• Claire Nicholls

SHAPE Selection

• Ellison Game

• Chelsea Jenkins

SHAPE Nominations

• Alyssa Premutico

• Bethany Sampson

• Charlotte White

journey, shaped by commitment and resilience throughout their HSC years.

ENCORE Nominations

• Teagan Kumar

OnSTAGE Nominations

• Josephine Birtles

Connor OShannessy

Colby Carroll

Aahana Saha

Rishelle George ATAR: 91.95

Best of both worlds at St Paul’s PAC proud of 2025 achievers

As the only school in the greater west of Sydney to offer both the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, senior students at St Paul’s Grammar School enjoy the unique advantage of choosing the pathway that best suits their skills and interests. Combining the HSC and IB 2025 results, 30 per cent of students achieved an ATAR above 90 and 52 per cent achieved an ATAR above 80, reflecting strong performances across a diverse range of subjects.

They have announced their 2025 Dux as IB Diploma student Livia Zhang, who received an ATAR of 99.25.

Whether choosing to study the HSC or the IB Diploma in their senior years, students at St Paul’s benefit from an education designed to prepare them for life beyond school.

Their commitment to holistic education is evident in the rich learning experiences they provide, both in and beyond the classroom. This commitment is further reflected in their extensive cocurricular opportunities, including an Arts Academy, Sport Academy, RFS Cadets Programme, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, service-learning trips, and debating, among other opportunities.

As a Christian Grammar school catering for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, they nurture the whole child and empower students to grow academically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually within a caring and supportive environment. This approach enables them to become discerning and knowledgeable individuals of integrity, called to serve the world with respect and compassion.

With the 2025 Higher School Certificate (HSC) results now finalised, Penrith Anglican College (PAC) Principal Mrs Felicity Grima has congratulated the Class of 2025 on their achievements, resilience, and growth throughout their senior years.

“In 2025, 75 students completed the HSC, with a further five students accelerating in one or more courses,” Grima said.

“These results reflect young people who approached their learning with purpose, commitment, and perseverance.”

23 students (29 per cent) achieved at least one Band 6 or E4 result, with a total of 32 Band 6 and E4 results recorded.

54 students (68 per cent)

attained at least one Band 5 or E3 result or above, demonstrating strong achievement across a wide range of subjects. In addition, 27 students achieved an ATAR above 80.

The College congratulated its 2025 Dux, Elizabeth Godwin, who achieved an ATAR of 96.70. Students who achieved ATARs above 90 included Kupakwashe Tirivazvo (95.10), Connor OShannessy (95.00), Colby Carroll (94.45), Aahana Saha (94.40), and Rishelle George (91.95).

PAC students were also recognised in creative and extension disciplines, with HSC Major Works nominated and selected for prestigious state showcases including ARTEXPRESS, SHAPE and ENCORE.

Grima said these achieve-

ments highlighted the depth of learning and creativity fostered at the College.

“At Penrith Anglican College, education is about more than results alone,” Grima said.

“It is about nurturing curiosity, resilience and character, and supporting students to grow into thoughtful young people who are equipped to serve others and contribute positively to their communities.”

Grima acknowledged the dedication of teachers, staff, and families who supported students throughout their senior years, and wished the Class of 2025 every success in their next chapter.

For more information about Penrith Anglican College, including enrolments, visit penrith.nsw. edu.au.

HSC ACHIEVEMENTS

Plenty to be proud of at Nepean Creative & Performing Arts High

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School has once again given the community plenty to be proud of, delivering outstanding HSC results that highlight the school’s strength in creativity, commitment and student achievement.

This year, 16 Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High students earned a Band 6 or E4 result, contributing to an impressive total of 22 distinguished results across a wide range of subjects. These top-tier outcomes spanned Dance, Earth and Environmental Science, English Studies, English Extension 1 and 2, Entertainment Industry, Japanese Continuers, Mathematics Standard 1 and 2, Music 1, and Visual Arts – a clear reflection of the diverse talents nurtured within the school.

The creative and performing arts were a particular standout. Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High received 22 prestigious nominations across the

state’s renowned HSC showcases, including Callback for Dance, OnStage for Drama, and Encore for Music. These nominations place students among the best in New South Wales and recognise not only exceptional performances, but months – often years – of dedication behind the scenes.

Adding to the list of accolades was Selkie J’s Extension English 2 work has been selected for Young Writers Festival, reinforcing Nepean CAPA High’s reputation for fostering strong voices and original thinking across multiple creative disciplines.

Taken together, these results mark one of the most successful cohorts in Nepean CAPA High School’s Creative and Performing Arts history. They speak volumes about the talent of the students, the passion of the teaching staff, and a school culture that encourages students to aim high and express themselves confidently.

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School continues to prove that excellence comes in many forms – and that when students are supported to pursue their passions, remarkable things happen.

OUTSTANDING HSC RESULTS FOR CAROLINE CHISHOLM COLLEGE

At Caroline Chisholm College,wecelebrate our best ever results in the 2025 HSC. Our outstanding results are testament to the exceptional learningculture that empowers ouryoung womentoexceed expectationsand achieve their goals. Asalearning and faith community, we acknowledge thefollowing students who achieved distinguished achievementsby placing in their HSC course: Nishika Talusani 1st in course PDHPE; Sophie McLaughlin 5th in course Studies of Religion 1; and Kaitlyn Grima 15th in course Mathematics Standard 2. In 2025 we also celebrate 32 students as NESA ‘Distinguished Achievers’ with twoor more courses achieving Band6 results. As well as this, Nishika and Kaitlyn were NESA ‘All Rounders’ as theyachieved Band6results in 10 or more units of study. Additionally, Nishika achieveda record ATAR for the college of 99.75 and 14 students in total achieved an ATAR over 90! What an outstanding result!

Asa community we are so proudof the 2025 HSCyear group whowere incredibly supportive of each other, ensuring that all students were part of the success journey aligning with ourmantra of ‘Better Together’. Through hard work, grit, determination and commitment, our students were able to achieve sensational results making their parents and teachers extremely proud indeed. Finally, approximately 70%ofour HSC courses were above the state average, which is indicative of our high quality learning, our attention to thewell-being of our young women, andthe sharedbeliefof our staff who successfully coached and mentoredour students.

Suthakaran Kaarunya

Sophie McLaughlin

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

Prepare to hear Roy Orbison like you’ve never heard before with a stripped back performance by Irish-Australian singer-songwriter Damien Leith.

The 2006 ‘Australian Idol’ winner will perform Roy Orbison and Friends at Wenty Leagues on February 28.

“About 14 years ago, I released an album of Roy Orbison’s songs that I recorded with his wife Barbara over in Nashville. That was very special, and since then I’ve done different versions of his songs,” Leith began.

“I’ve done it with an orchestra, I’ve done it with a band, and this year I decided to strip it right back to the basics and do something more intimate.”

Leith connected with Barbara Orbison after performing one of her husband’s songs on ‘Australian Idol’.

“When Roy passed away, Barbara took over his entire estate and looked after all his publishing and his legacy. She goes out of her way to keep his name alive,” Leith told the Weekender

“She got in touch with me and asked if I would record an album of his songs to celebrate what would have been his 75th birthday.

“It was amazing to get that call.”

With his upcoming show, Leith will perform key Roy Orbison songs along with songs by the Traveling Wilburys.

“Roy Orbison was amazing, and when you get a band in there with all the electrics you create a rock show, but when you do it

acoustically like this, you present the songs in such a different way, and they stand up on their own,” Leith explained.

“From a performing point of view, you’re a lot more exposed – but the songs are as well.

“With this sort of show, you can hear everything crystal clear – every note, every nuance, the whole lot. It really highlights how amazing these songs are.”

The musician grew up listening to Roy Orbison from his hometown in Ireland.

“I came here 23 years ago on a ‘roundthe-world’ ticket with my wife for our honeymoon and we’ve never left,” Leith recounted.

“I did the breakfast show at one of the radio stations in Wollongong for seven years, and we love it – it’s a great place to live.

“I’m originally a chemist, but I always played music in bands. Once I won ‘Australia Idol’, I became a full-time musician.”

The singer doesn’t take any of these experiences for granted and feels honoured to sing Orbison’s hits.

“This year marks 20 years since ‘Australian Idol’, and I didn’t choose to sing a Roy Orbison song, it was picked by the audience,” Leith remembered.

“I didn’t even plan on entering Idol – a couple of friends just convinced me to do it. It wasn’t part of my plan, but it’s amazing how it’s all turned out.

“Being a musician is a dream come true.”

Book a ticket to see ‘Damien Leith: Roy Orbison and Friends' on February 28 online at https://wentyleagues.com.au.

ALLY HALL

THINGS TO DO

I Love Your Faces: The Don Lane Story

Audiences are invited to celebrate the music, memories, and magic of television’s golden era with ‘I Love Your Faces: The Don Lane Story’ at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club. The show is a spectacular theatrical tribute to one of Australia’s most beloved entertainers, Don Lane, and a deeply personal story about family and legacy. See the show on Sunday, February 8.

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

Glenmore Park Probus Club

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Leonay Golf Club. New members welcome. Call 0439 323 103.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the fourth Monday of the

The Traveling Wilbury’s Collection

There’s never been a supergroup in rock history quite like The Traveling Wilburys. In four years, they released two mega albums, a slew of hits, and were awarded a Grammy… but they never toured. Now, The Traveling Wilburys Collection is doing just that and bringing the hits of the original band to life at The Joan on Saturday, February 7.

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

South Creek Probus Club

Third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club from 10.30am. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com. New members welcome.

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.

St Clair Probus Club

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

Probus Club of Nepean

First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Call Faye on 0417 267 866.

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am-

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

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Nepean Food Services

Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au.

Free food shop

9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.

JP service

Located in Western Weekender office

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.

Bring the family to Kingswood Sports Club on Sunday, February 8 for the Pioneers Timber Cutters Truck Show! From 10am to 12pm, grab some breakfast and admire the impressive trucks in the Sports Club car park. All funds raised at the event will go towards the Black Dog Institute. It’s all happening at 2 Santley Crescent, Kingswood.

Pioneers Timber Cutters Truck Show

MARCEL TAKES PENRITH FOOD SCENE TO THE NEXT LEVEL

There are three things I look for when I attend a restaurant: flavour, warmth and intimacy.

Flavour is self explanatory. I want to be amazed by my forkfuls and transported by new tastes. If I want something familiar, I’ll go to the pub and order a chicken schnitzel. When I go to a restaurant, I expect delectable ingenuity and mouth-watering creativity.

Warmth is dependent on service. For me, a friendly waiter can make or break a dining experience.

Intimacy relies on dining room decor. If tables are too close together or if the lighting is comparable to hospital LED’s, it causes a disconnect between diners.

With these key three requirements in mind, I deliver my verdict on Marcel Bar and Bistro.

Well-placed in a bustling part of Penrith, Marcel’s sits across from the Panthers Leagues Club and within the Pullman pre-

cinct which includes a five-star hotel, Tori Cafe and Bar, and the Western Sydney Convention Centre.

Up a flight of stairs – or an elevator ride for those requiring an alternate route – Marcel Bar and Bistro welcomes guests with a bright space lit up by sunshine seeping through floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains.

Baked terracotta and yellow gold form the venue’s colour scheme. Gold feature lights embellish the end of every earthy-toned cushioned booth, and small gold lamps sit atop every table.

The individual lamp on every table is a feature that I adore! When I’m at a restaurant, I love hearing chatter and laughter reverberating around the room. It’s special to be part of an unexpected community who all came from different places to enjoy the same thing: food and conversation. However, it’s also nice to unplug from that and focus on what’s in front of you, and that’s where that little light comes in.

With that in mind, my requirement for intimacy was checked.

My main server for the night was Rachael. She, along with every staff member who attended my table, ensured my dining experience was one to remember and repeat.

When I asked for cocktail and food recommendations, Rachael was able to suggest items based on my tastes. With my sweet tooth, I ordered three cocktails based on her counsel.

I started with the Passion XS, a passionfruit cocktail that was fresh, tangy, and didn’t give away that there was gin and wine within. I then tried The Lychee Two, a cocktail comparable to a woman – sweet and strong. To finish, I couldn’t go past the Marcel Weis Bar, which tasted much like a mango variation of a pina colada.

After I was a few cocktails deep, Rachael listened to me talk about my New Year’s resolutions as if she were a friend, ticking warmth off my list of restaurant requirements.

When it came to food, I tried two starters, two entrées, and two mains.

For starters, I had the Duck Croquettes

and the Zucchini Flowers – the latter being the star of the show! Marcel’s have nailed the art of the zucchini flower. It had a crispy exterior and soft interior made with love.

For entrées, I ordered Tuna Tataki and Beef Tartare. The tataki was unexpectedly delightful. The salmon roux gave the dish a savoury pop and the sesame seed trim provided a smoky impression. The tartare was light and refreshing. It wasn’t like a standard tartare – this one was lighter, brighter, sweeter, and fruitier.

For mains, I tried the Leek, Potato and Miso Risotto as well as the Portoro MB4+ Sirloin 250g. The risotto was good – exactly what you want and expect from that dish. The medium-rare steak was perfection, served with a delicious red wine jus.

Overall, I can't fault Marcel's on flavour, warmth, or intimacy. The food, service, and set-up guarantees a five-star experience for every customer, whether they are seeking romance with a partner, sophistication with their family, or a charming night out with friends.

Tim Webster for Breakfast 5am-9am Weekdays

Chris Smith Across Australia 9am-12 Noon

ALLY HALL

COUNTRY CORNER

Fahim locks in new album

Rachael Fahim has announced her debut album ‘Who You Are’ will be released on Friday, May 1.

‘Who You Are’ is a collection of 10 singit-out-loud raw and honest tracks written between Nashville, Los Angeles and Sydney. Included on the album are her Country Radio hit singles, ‘Dance Around It’, ‘Good Luck’, ‘Who You Are’ and the #1 Australian Country Airplay hit ‘Too Damn Hot’.

As the album opener, ‘Never Coming Back’ is the Aussie starlet's “emotional whiplash", her “realisation song”.

“It’s about that moment when you realise you aren’t heartbroken anymore. It captures the power shift when self-respect kicks in, the late-night calls stop working, and closure comes,” she said.

“It’s defiant, healed and rooted in the clarity that sometimes the best comeback is no comeback at all – it’s just leaving."

Track of the Week

Every now and again, against a backdrop of country traditionalists complaining that the current music being put out “isn't country”, an artist comes along that drags everyone together.

And at the moment it feels like Ella Langley is that artist.

Her star is rising massively in the United States and she's blending modern country with a real traditional bent, which is bringing the two sides of the what is and what isn't country debate together.

This past week, Langley has dropped ‘Dandelion’ – the first track of her upcoming album.

It's a great track – add it to your playlists now!

You'll find ‘Dandelion’ on all the usual streaming services.

Good news for horror fans, the latest instalment of the ‘28 Years Later’ franchise has landed – but is it as good as its predecessor?

‘28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’, follows on from the previous film almost immediately as we find protagonist Spike (Alfie Williams) forced to prove his worth and join Jimmy Crystal’s (Jack O'Connell) bloodthirsty gang. Forced to don the blonde wig, Spike desperately attempts to escape the hellish cult he's found himself in. Meanwhile, Dr Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) makes an intriguing discovery that could alter the world as they know it. The two worlds inevitably collide in a spectacular sequence and

left audiences (or at least me) with more questions than answers.

If you read my review for the previous film, you'll know I am a big fan of this franchise and thoroughly enjoyed its revival. ‘28 Years Later’ had a profound impact on me as a movie lover and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. ‘The Bone Temple’ however, sadly did not have quite the same affect.

As much as I enjoyed the film, I feel it fell into the classic trope of horror sequels: up the blood and gore, up the body count. This film heavily focused on Jimmy Crystal's vicious cult, The Jimmies, and included some truly horrific acts of

violence. While I understand how 28 years of fear and uncertainty would make the world a dangerous place, the use of gore and violence felt overzealous to me.

That being said, I am excited for the third and final instalment of this series. This film raised questions about the virus that demand

further exploration, and left us on a cliff hanger that will hopefully be resolved in the next movie. I felt this film focused on deepening the lore of the virus itself, rather than the strong themes of humanity and love featured in the previous film. I felt it focused more on showing the depravity of

man, rather than expanding the world and character development. There weren't many moments of human connection, but there is a great Iron Maiden themed dance sequence. Nevertheless, it was worth the watch, and keep an eye out for a surprise cameo.

–

Madeline Dantier

www.hoyts.com.au

Nathan Taylor

Ê The highly anticipated new season of ‘Australian Survivor: Redemption’ will premiere on Monday, February 23 at 7.30pm on 10. This season, four returning players, Harry, Brooke, Simon and Mark, are each hungry for their next shot at the title of Sole Survivor. But with massive targets on their backs, they will need to fight like never before to make sure the newbies on the beach don’t beat them to the punch. Many people will also be tuning in to see how new host David Genat will go following the departure of the legendary Jonathan LaPaglia.

Ê In what came as a surprise, 10 has confirmed it won’t be airing another season of ‘The Amazing Race Australia’ this year. At last year’s Upfront, 10 announced the Beau Ryan hosted show would return in 2026 with casting reportedly “well underway”, however “due to several factors including travel logistics”, the hit reality series won’t be proceeding as scheduled. 10 says it hopes to bring back the series in 2027.

Ê Exciting news for ‘NCIS: Sydney’ fans, with the local drama renewed for a fourth season by CBS. The American broadcaster has also renewed a huge slate of popular shows including ‘NCIS’, ‘NCIS: Origins’, ‘Matlock’, ‘Elsbeth’, ‘Survivor’, ‘The Amazing Race’, ‘Tracker’ and ‘George & Mandy’s First Marriage’.

Ê Following its season three premiere last week, Apple TV comedy ‘Shrinking’, starring Jason Segal and Harrison Ford, has been renewed for a fourth season. ‘Shrinking’ follows a grieving therapist (Segel) who starts to break the rules and tell his clients exactly what he thinks. Ignoring his training and ethics, he finds himself making huge, tumultuous changes to people’s lives … including his own.

Ê ‘Marshals: A Yellowstone Story’, in

which Luke Grimes reprises his role as Kayce Dutton, will premiere on Paramount+ on Monday, March 2. With the Yellowstone Ranch behind him, Dutton joins an elite unit of US Marshals, combining his skills as a cowboy and Navy SEAL to bring range justice to Montana.

Ê Stan will be home to the television adaptation of ‘Lord of the Flies’. Dropping all episodes this Sunday, February 8, ‘Lord of the Flies’ is the story of schoolboys stranded on a tropical island with no adults, following a deadly plane crash. In an attempt to remain civil, they organise themselves, led by Ralph and supported by the group’s intellectual, Piggy. But when Jack becomes more interested in hunting and vying for leadership, he soon begins to draw other boys away from the group and, ultimately, from hope to tragedy.

TV Guide: February 6 - 12

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

2:30 Sydney Weekender 3:00 Room For Improvement 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Wildlife ER (PG)

1:00 NFL: Honors *Live* 3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Tougher In Alaska (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Road Wars

2:00 My France With Manu (PG) 3:00 Make You Laugh Out Loud (PG) 4:00 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) 4:30 America’s Got Talent (PG) 6:35 Movie: “Penguins Of Madagascar” (G) (’14) Stars: Tom McGrath 8:30 Movie: “The Bone Collector” (M l,v) (’99)

Saturday 7 February

6:00

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Volcanic Odysseys (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Witches” (PG) (’20) Stars: Anne Hathaway

House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Movie: “V For Vendetta” (MA15+) (’05) 6:00 Jamie At Home 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Beyond Bali With Lara Lee 8:30 Buddy Valastro’s Cake Dynasty 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 The Cook Up

9:00 The Living Room (PG) 10:00 JAG (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 A Million Little Things (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:00 Friends (PG) 3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big

6:00

(PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00

7:30 Call

1:30 Better Homes And Gardens 4:00 Wildlife ER (PG) 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield *Live* 6:00 Luxury Escapes 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Lewis (M v) 10:30 Escape To The Country

3:00 Play School 3:30 Thomas And Friends 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 4:55 Peppa Pig 5:30 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Piripenguins 7:30 Hard Quiz Kids 8:00 Chopped

1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 Cool Cars With Dermott And Elise 2:00 Rides Down Under 3:00 Alpine Rally Of East Gippsland 4:00 Desert Collectors (M l) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG)

1:00 Starstruck (PG) 2:30 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 4:30 Make You Laugh Out Loud (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Playmobil: The Movie” (G) (’19) Stars: Anya TaylorJoy 7:30 Movie: “Maid In Manhattan” (PG) (’02) Stars: Jennifer Lopez

6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 Car S.O.S (PG) 6:15 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? 8:30 Richard Osman’s House Of Games Night

2:35 Walkabouts 3:00 Movie: “The Last Ice Hunters” (M l) (’17) Stars: Bendt Bendtsen 4:45 First Australians (PG) 6:00 Haututu Hunters (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l)

6:05 Hungry For More: Spain 6:30 Hairy Bikers Go West 7:35 Eat Smart Secrets Of The Glucose Goddess 8:30 Rick Stein’s Long Weekends 9:35 Mind Of A Chef 10:05 Deliciously Twisted Classics 10:35 Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen

Midwife (PG) 8:30 Midsomer Murders (PG) 6:00 Better Homes And Gardens 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Mummy” (PG) (’99) Stars: Brendan Fraser 10:00 Movie: “American Made” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Tom Cruise 6:00 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina: Opening Ceremony *Live* 8:45 Weekend Today 11:30 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina Highlights 1:00 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina Opening Ceremony *Replay* 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Find My Country House Australia 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina: Night Session *Live* 12:00 Olympics: Winter Games *Live* 6:00 Tough Tested (PG) 7:00 Reel Action 7:30 Escape Fishing With ET 8:00 I Fish 8:30 On The Fly 9:00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures 10:00 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! (PG) 1:00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass 1:30 Frugal Foodie 2:00 Farm To Fork 2:30 Cook With Luke 3:00 The Brighter Side 3:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG)

10:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 16: Brisbane Roar v Central Coast Mariners *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight 7:35 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 16: Western Sydney Wanderers v Melbourne City *Live* 9:30 Millionaire Hot Seat 10:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Deal Or No Deal 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Frasier (PG)

5:00 Worldwatch 10:30 Mastermind 12:00 The Rap Game UK (M l) 3:05 Heroines 3:40 Worldwatch 5:45 Mastermind 6:45 The Food That Built The World (M v) 7:35 Engineering From Above 8:30 Icons Unearthed (PG)

5:00 Worldwatch 10:30 The Food That Built The World (M v) 12:05 DW The Day 12:35 Blaktrax: Shakaya 1:10 Mastermind 3:45 Worldwatch 5:50 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 6:50 Jeopardy! 7:40 NITV News Update 2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Voyage Of The Dawn Treader” (PG) (’10) Stars: Ben Barnes 1:00 Poirot (PG) 3:00 Antiques Roadshow 3:30 Movie: “Some People” (G) (’62) Stars:

12:30 Fixer Upper 1:30 Rock Solid Builds (PG)

3:25 Australian Open Water Championships Highlights 3:55 Lego Masters (PG) 5:35 Movie: “Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed” (PG) (’04) Stars: Matthew Lillard 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban” (PG) (’04)

3:25 Movie: “Train Of Events” (PG) (’49) Stars: Peter Finch 5:20 Movie: “Piccadilly Incident” (G) (’46) Stars: Anna Neagle 7:30 Death In Paradise (M v) 8:40 Movie: “Rambo: First Blood” (M l,v) (’82) Stars: Sylvester Stallone

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Muster Dogs (PG) 3:40 The Piano UK (PG) 4:30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Grand Designs Transformations (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Muster Dogs (PG) 8:30 Dog Park (M l) 9:00 This England (M l) 9:50 Call The Midwife (M) 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under Highlights 1:30 Unfiltered - Cricket (PG) 2:00 Movie: “Close Encounters Of The Third Kind” (PG) (’77) Stars: Richard Dreyfuss 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Australian Idol (PG) 8:40 Beckham - Family. At War (PG) 9:40 The Royal Rich List (PG) 11:10 Crime Investigation Australia - Most Infamous (M v) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 The Jack 11:00 Fishing Australia (PG) 11:30 Forging Champions (PG) 1:00 Beyond The DreamIce Breakers - Chasing Olympic Gold 2:00 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina Highlights 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Postcards (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 8:35 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina: Night Session *Live* 12:00 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina *Live* 9:30 My Market Kitchen 10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:00 Well Traveller (PG) 11:30 Pooches At Play 12:00 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! (PG) 1:30 Lingo (PG) 2:30 NBL: Round 20: South East Melbourne Phoenix v Sydney Kings

The Conners (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 10:30 Bones (M)

3:00 Movie: “I Am Joe Frazier” (PG) (’25) 4:35 Stompem Ground 5:15 Soh Presents: Generations And Dynasties (M l) 6:35 NITV News Update 6:45 Volcanic Odysseys (PG) 7:35 Most Endangered Species New Zealand 6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 Tough Tested 9:00 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 10:00 Navigating The World 11:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 I Fish 4:30 NBL: Round 20: Brisbane Bullets v Cairns Taipans

Get Macca’s® delivered.

4:25 Mojo Swoptops 4:55 Peppa Pig 5:30 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks

4:25 Mojo

s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG)

4:25 Mojo Swoptops 4:55 Peppa Pig 5:30 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago 3:10 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00

Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward 5:30 APTN National News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Wild Survivors 7:30 Shepherdess (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v)

“Sweet Home Alabama” (PG) (’02) Stars: Candice Bergen 10:50 Australian Idol (PG) 12:30 Dare Me (MA15+) 1:30 Harry’s Practice 2:00 Home Shopping 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00

4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 4:00 Twice The Life For Half The Price (PG) 5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town

The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 6:00 Olympics: Winter Games Milano Cortina *Live* 9:05 Midsomer Murders (M

ROBOT VACUUMS: ARE THEY WORTH THE COST?

The type of vacuum you have in your house is likely reflective of the stage of life you're in.

When you've just moved out of home and in your budget-conscious 20s, a $39 vacuum from K-mart likely does the job.

Get a partner, become a bit more house proud and suddenly it’s a couple of hundred dollars being spent on a vacuum from a specialist store or higher end department outlet.

Get dogs and kids and suddenly you’re scoping out the special

features of vacuums, becoming invested in the power and maintenance levels and spending the equivalent of an international flight.

Having entered my early 40s, I’m now in the next phase: the robot vacuum.

For the past few months I've been road testing (or is that floor testing?) the DEEBOT N30 PRO OMNI from Ecovacs.

Retailing at $1899, exclusively at JB Hi-Fi, this is no cheap household accessory. So does it stack up to its expensive price tag?

There is no doubt this is a game changing vacuum.

“IT IS NOW A PERMANENT FIXTURE IN OUR HOUSEHOLD”

Game changing because it’s taken out a regular household chore. With a four-year-old commanding the household at present, there’s always ‘bits’ on the floors – crumbs, random paper off-cuts, sand, dirt... the list goes on. Vacuuming had become almost a daily task.

But with the DEEBOT N30 PRO OMNI, the work gets done for me. I set the auto-schedule to run every weekday at 11am, which means the vacuuming happens when I’m not at home. There’s something rather comforting, even elite, about getting a notification on your phone that vacuuming has started – and then finished – without you lifting a finger.

The result is a clean floor every day upon arriving home. I started with the mop and vacuum function every day, given we have largely hard floors in the main

living areas with carpet in the bedrooms, but as time has gone on I’m sticking with vacuum only most of the time and using the mop function once a week. You can set different scenarios and maps, so you’re pretty much unlimited in terms of how you clean and how often.

Setup was reasonably easy, although I admit I did have to go through it twice as it forgot everything from the first setup. A small hiccup.

The TruEdge Adaptive Edge Mopping system provides precise edge cleaning, while the OZMO Turbo 2.0 system removes stains and revitalises floors. With 10,000Pa suction and 9mm Autolift Mopping, it seamlessly adapts to different surfaces, lifting the mop when carpet is detected to avoid cross-contamination.

Now it’s important to note a couple of things. Having a robot do the vacuuming for you does not mean you can put your feet up and leave your vacuum to look after itself.

Maintenance is still required – and at times, it can be a little needy. But the odd issue with one of the mopping pads or a tangle here and there that needs to be sorted is far less work than doing the vacuuming yourself.

And when you clean that dirty water tank out about once a week, you’ll realise just what a great job it is doing.

The DEEBOT N30 PRO OMNI is no flippant investment. But it is now a permanent fixture in our household and after a couple of months I’m convinced I’d never go back. To top everything off, the station and overall unit looks pretty slick – so it doesn't look out of place at all in your lounge room. In fact, it's quite the flex. Visit www.ecovacs.com/au/ deebot-robotic-vacuum-cleaner/ deebot-n30-omni. – Troy Dodds

Discover exclusive townhome

living in Oran Pa rk .

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

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

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

• Spacious, designer interiors

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

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LUXURY APARTMENT LIVING

What is so great about this property?

Maiden Place is a unique opportunity to secure a brand new apartment in the heart of Penrith. With construction well underway and completion due Q1 2026, this boutique development

combines timeless architecture with exceptional value.

Who does this property suit? This property is perfect for first home buyers and downsizers, looking for low maintenance, luxury apartment living

Tell us more about the suburb this property is in?

Located on Derby Street, Maiden Place is perfectly posi-

tioned within walking distance of Nepean Hospital, local shops, cafés and parks. You couldn’t ask for more!

The Experts

Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s Swim School 4730 8900

WHY PRIORITISE LEARN TO SWIM CLASSES?

With children back to school this week I wanted to remind parents of all the benefits of Learn To Swim, and why swimming lessons should be a non negotiable part of your child’s weekly routine! It is so important to swim all year round, alongside any other sports and activities in our busy family schedules. Learning to swim is an activity that offers numerous benefits for children beyond simply staying safe in water. From physical health to mental well-being, swimming provides a holistic approach to a child’s development in a way that no other sport or activity can match.

The most obvious and most important benefit of learning to swim is water safety. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death in children of all ages, with a high number of non drowning immersion incidents causing life long injuries, and teaching kids how to swim reduces the risk significantly.

STRENGTH FOR YOUTH

I’m excited to be launching Youth Strength and Conditioning sessions at OnePointHealth from February, designed to help junior athletes build strength, speed and confidence in a safe and structured environment.

These sessions are a great opportunity for young athletes to enhance performance, learn new skills, and reduce their risk of injury, regardless of their sporting background or experience level. My focus is always on teaching athletes how to move well first, building strong foundations that support long-term athletic development and lifelong fitness habits.

I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide range of sporting clubs and organisations, including Penrith Panthers and the NSW Institute of Sport, helping young athletes improve their performance through structured, age-appropriate strength and conditioning programs. I bring this experience into every session,

ensuring training is engaging, safe, and tailored to the needs of youth athletes.

The program includes both on-field speed and agility sessions and gym-based strength training, giving athletes a well-rounded approach to their development.

The speed and agility sessions are designed to develop efficient sprint mechanics, explosive acceleration, and effective change of direction. I coach key running fundamentals such as posture, arm action, foot placement, braking and body control to ensure skills transfer directly to sport. These sessions help athletes improve agility, reaction time, coordination and

Knowing how to float, tread water, and perform basic strokes can save lives in emergency situations. Moreover, understanding water safety rules instils confidence and promotes responsible behaviour around water.

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that engages the entire body, improving cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, and enhancing flexibility. Swimming is low-impact, making it suitable for children of all ages and fitness levels, and regular swimming sessions can help combat childhood obesity and promote a healthy lifestyle from an early age. Swimming also has therapeutic effects on children’s mental health and emotional well-being. The soothing nature of water calms their minds and reduces stress and anxiety. Swimming releases endorphins and also provides an outlet for pent-up energy and emotions, helping children regulate their emotions more effectively. Plus, swimming lessons provide

HEALTH

The Experts

HANNAH NORRIE One Point Health 4732 5188

confidence, while learning how to move quickly and safely on the field.

The gym-based sessions focus on developing full-body strength while teaching correct lifting and movement technique. Through coached strength exercises and controlled explosive movements, athletes learn how to train safely, build confidence in the gym, and understand how proper technique enhances performance and reduces injury risk. My goal is to help young athletes move better, train smarter and perform with confidence.

For more information contact OnePointHealth on 4732 5188 or visit our website.

opportunities for children to socialise and make new friends! Learning to swim empowers children and boosts their self-confidence. Overcoming the initial fear of water and mastering new skills gives them a sense of achievement. As children progress in their swimming abilities, they gain confidence not only in the pool but also in other areas of their lives. This newfound confidence can translate into improved social interactions, academic performance, and overall well-being! Learn to Swim lessons are often a child’s very first structured activity. Swimming is a life skill that opens up a world of opportunities for children. It enables them to participate in water-based activities such as snorkelling, surfing, and kayaking. Strong swimming skills can lead to future endeavours such as lifeguarding, competitive swimming, or even careers in aquatic sports – we have lots of junior employees whose first job is with us!

By introducing kids to swimming at an early age and allowing children to consistently swim all year round, parents provide their children with a foundation for a healthy and fulfilling life both in and out of the water. On the flip side, a break from lessons often leads to skill regression, undoing some of the progress made prior to time out of the water. I encourage everyone to make swimming lessons a non negotiable part of your child’s weekly routine.

JULIE SHELDRAKE

ARE YOU BACK AT WORK? PET HEALTH

As the festive season fades and work routines return to normal, many households are feeling the shift – and so are our pets. After weeks of extra company, late mornings and constant activity, being home alone again can be a big adjustment. For some pets, this change can lead to boredom, restlessness or even mild separation stress. The good news? A little planning goes a long way in keeping them happy while you’re at work.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, especially during long days at home. Puzzle feeders, slow feeders and treat-dispensing toys encourage natural problem-solving and foraging behaviours. They keep curious minds occupied, slow down fast eaters and turn mealtimes into engaging activities rather than something that’s over in seconds. Rotating different puzzle toys helps maintain novelty and interest.

Sometimes entertainment is as simple as a good view. Creating a cosy spot near a window allows pets to watch birds, people and passing cars. Cats, in particular, love this kind of enrichment, but many dogs also enjoy observing the world outside. Make sure the space is safe, shaded and comfortable so they can relax while they watch.

Toy rotation is another easy but effective strategy. When all toys are always available, they quickly lose their appeal. By packing some away and swapping them every few days, old favourites feel new again. A variety of soft toys, chew toys and interactive options caters to different moods and preferences. For pets who find silence unsettling, gentle background noise can help. Leaving the radio or television on at a low volume may provide comfort, mask sudden outside noises and make the home feel less empty. Calm music or talk-back programs

GAMES FROM THE PAST

Last week, I showed you a web-based version of Windows 98 games. It ran in a browser. It was easy to use and had about 50 great older games. For those who missed the article, to get started, visit https://emupedia.net/beta/emuos/.

are usually better than loud or unpredictable sounds.

One of the most powerful tools for a settled day is a good start to the morning.

A walk, play session or short training routine before work helps burn off energy and encourages rest during the day. Mental activities such as scent games or basic training can be just as tiring as physical exercise.

Routine and familiarity matter more than we often realise. Consistent feeding times, predictable mornings and comfortable resting spaces help pets feel secure. Favourite beds, blankets and familiar smells all contribute to a sense of safety.

This week, I will talk about how to download and install eXoWin9x. eXoWin9x is basically a ready-to-use library of 662 classic Windows 95 and 98 games from the early years of 32-bit gaming, covering 1994 to 1996.

This package is a lot of fun, with almost 700 high-quality games and thousands of hours of retro gaming. Just click on a game, and the

software starts up a Windows 98 virtual machine using emulators, loads the operating system, and takes you straight into the game. The collection features big names like Command & Conquer, Diablo, SimCity 2000, and Myst, along with many lesser-known games from the early CD-ROM days.

Now, trying to play those classic 90s games on a modern PC can be a real challenge.

That’s where eXoWin9x comes in. This new digital preservation project makes it simple to play hundreds of vintage Windows games with just one click.

The eXoWin9x package is huge, with the full bundle taking up about 260GB.

These are some key features:

• 662 pre-configured games from 1994–1996.

• One-click launching of the games.

• Completely portable setup that makes no changes to your own computer.

• Virtual Hard Drive (VHD) system that uses a single “parent” Windows 9x

installation with small “child” images unique to each game.

• Extensive extras, including manuals, soundtracks, strategy guides, box art, trailers, and hint files.

• Multiplayer support allows online play with anyone else running the collection. You can get the bundle straight from the project’s website https://www.retroexo.com/win9x.html.

There, you’ll find a torrent link to download the full 262GB archive. Because the bundle is so large, a torrent is the only way to download it. To do this, you need to install a BitTorrent client. More on this in a future column.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Prepare for some substantial changes in your local community, as serious Saturn moves through your neighbourhood zone for the next two years. Work out ways that you can make a contribution that will be meaningful and have a long-lasting effect. And look for local people who share your interests, values and goals. It’s also a suitable time to take on the responsibility of serious, longterm study. The weekend is a good time to relax, rewind and rejuvenate.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Saturn (the planet of work, self-improvement and wisdom) shifts into your self-reflection zone. So, over the next two years, do your best to consolidate your strengths and work on your weaknesses. As Saturn and Neptune both deepen your humanitarian and spiritual perspectives, some Bulls will become involved with volunteer work while others embrace yoga, meditation, religion and/or metaphysical study. It’s a good time to go on an adventure.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Stop being a listless Lion and get cracking Cats! On Saturday, ambitious Saturn transits into your aspirations zone (where it stays until 2028). So it’s time to be confident, creative and determined, as you dream big dreams for the future – and then make them happen by being proactive and making smart choices. Your motivational mantra for the moment is from fellow Leo, actress Helen Mirren, “You write your life story by the choices you make.”

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Are you a Scorpio who has lost your pep? Have you been feeling run-down and lacking energy? Saturn transits through your well-being zone (until 2028) so the next two years is the time to focus on your physical and mental health. Discipline, determination, patience and gradual progress will get you where you want to go, as you restructure your daily routine so it includes more nutritious food, a sustainable exercise program and a regular form of relaxation.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

With penny-pinching Saturn transiting through your money zone (until 2028) expect extra expenses and financial responsibilities over the next two years. Which will teach you some valuable lessons about being financially organised, responsible and frugal. Spontaneous spending sprees are definitely not recommended! The Moon is visiting your peer group zone on the weekend, so it’s a wonderful time to catch up with old friends and new acquaintances.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

With responsible Saturn transiting through your hopes and wishes zone for the next two years, you need to get serious about your future plans. It’s time to dream an ambitious dream … and then put in the hard work and discipline required to make it happen. Plus do your best to replace restlessness with patience and short-term schemes with longterm resilience. Mystery and intrigue surround you on the weekend – but can you be trusted to keep a secret?

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Serious Saturn transits into your intrigue and secrets zone, which is good for all types of study, research and detailed detective work. And this week you’ve also got four planets (the Sun, Venus, Mars and Pluto) moving through your job zone. So don’t be shy and overly modest Virgo - it’s your time to shine at work! The weekend is all about leisure, entertainment, sport and hobbies, as you share the good times with family members and/or close friends.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Over the next two years, Saturn visits your love, romance, children and friendship zone. These relationships should strengthen and solidify, but there could also be some challenges and extra responsibilities placed on your broad Sagittarian shoulders. And you may decide to give a false friend the flick. So your motto is from birthday great, author and activist Alice Walker, “No person is your friend who demands your silence or denies your right to grow.”

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Taskmaster Saturn transits back into your sign (on Saturday) where it stays until 2028. Which could bring more stability into your life – and more challenges. You’ll find the more disciplined, responsible and self-reliant you are, the smoother the transition will be. Your motto for the moment is from fellow Aries, movie icon Bette Davis, “The key to life is accepting challenges.” The weekend favours catching up with old acquaintances and/or current friends.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Saturn shifts into your career zone, so get serious about your professional ambitions. It also bodes well for a promotion, better job or professional break over the next two years, as long as you are patient, persistent and thoroughly prepared. If you’ve taken short cuts or have been working below par, then there could be some challenges along the way. With the Moon transiting through your relationship zone, the weekend is all about love, connection and companionship.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Saturn shifts into your partnership zone, so – sometime over the next two years – you could end a relationship that’s no longer working. With Neptune also in your partnership zone, aim to be more generous towards loved ones and try to view a troubled relationship from a more compassionate perspective. Are you looking for love? You could be attracted to someone much older, or a long-term friendship could gradually develop into a serious romance.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Saturn (your ruler) transits into your domestic zone. So there are plenty of professional and DIY jobs that need to be done around the home as things wear out (or break down) and need to be fixed. Also – over the next two years - you could become more interested in your personal history, your family tree and the lives of your ancestors. Be inspired by fellow Capricorn, singer/writer Patti Smith, “Family means putting your arms around each other and being there.”

Word Search

PENRITH

THORNTON

JAMISON

RUGBY

Last

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about the Winter Olympics in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. Where are the 2026 Winter Olympics being held?

2. When do the 2026 Winter Olympics begin?

3. What sport will be debuting at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

4. Where will the opening ceremony be held?

5. Who will perform at the opening ceremony?

6. How many medal events will be included in the games?

7. How many countries have qualified athletes participating in the games?

8. What is the mascot of the 2026 Winter Olympics?

9. In Australia, what free-to-air TV network is broadcasting the Games?

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.

Maddie’s Meals

& Spinach Lasagne Mushroom, Ricotta

This lasagne is great to pull out for a No-Meat Monday, or just when you feel like indulging in creamy ricotta.

What You'll Need:

– Large oven safe dish

– Mixing bowl

– Pan (for wilting spinach)

– Pot (for boiling pasta)

– Foil

Ingredients:

– Lasagne sheets

– 500g Ricotta cheese

– Roughly 60g Spinach

– 2-3 cups Mushrooms

– 1 jar tomato pasta sauce

– 2 eggs

– Spices (I use salt, black pepper, white pepper, paprika, onion powder and garlic powder)

– 1-2 cups shredded cheese

Method:

1. Start by roughly chopping spinach and adding to a pan with water to wilt it.

2. While the spinach is wilting, slice mushrooms and set aside. Begin boiling a pot of water and preheat oven to 200°C.

3. Once spinach is wilted, take it off the heat and drain as much water as possible out of it. Set aside.

4. In a mixing bowl, mix together ricotta, spinach, eggs and spices. Mix well until combined and set aside.

5. Once water is boiling, place lasagne sheets in one at a time for 30-60 seconds each.

This will ensure they soften during cooking.

6. Once pasta is softened, spread some tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. Then layer pasta, ricotta mixture, pasta, mushrooms, sauce, and repeat until ingredients are used or you run out of space.

7. Sprinkle cheese over the top and cover with foil, cooking for 40 minutes. If the pasta is not softened, cook for a further 5-10 minutes.

8. Once pasta is soft and cheese is melted, cut and serve!

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

ASX update brings Euro flair to SUV market: Gary’s verdict

For a modern car nameplate to achieve 15 years is a significant milestone, and Mitsubishi’s ASX is the latest to reach that mark.

With a reputation for reliability and ease of operation, the ASX has a solid fan base Mitsubishi hopes will get behind the new model, with its Renault design and technology and European flair.

We recently spent time with the mid-spec ASX Aspire in Royal Blue, that sat nicely on the high-riding SUV body.

As a fan of sharp angles, there was plenty to like, with the front end incorporating outward facing chevrons flanking the Mitsubishi diamond, feeding into wide LED headlights, sitting above the daytime running lights and gloss black trapezoidal grille.

Flared guards front and rear cover the 18” alloy wheels, with black plastic stone protectors for the guard lips and lower door sections.

Classed as a small SUV, the ASX has a ‘wheel at each corner’ design, maximising interior space while providing a stable, wide track, driving platform.

The ASX cuts a tidy profile with rounded edges on the bonnet lip and a slight downward curve to the roofline with an integrated spoiler, the tailgate bulges out, avoiding reducing cargo volume and internal height.

Despite a high belt line, reducing the side window size, the ASX doesn’t feel claustrophobic, and without any restricted side or rear vision.

Inside, the ASX is outstanding, providing a cockpit feel for the driver, without neglecting the needs of passengers.

As a small SUV, it is tight, but my 183cm frame fitted both front seats, although head and shoulder room was a bit tight, especially with a similar sized driver beside me.

The centre stack features a vertically-mounted 10.4” touchscreen infotainment unit, offering AM/ FM/DAB with CarPlay and Android, as well as Google Built-In, including Maps, Play and Assistant. Under this is the dual-zone

automatic climate control system, including steering wheel heater, above a ‘floating’ console incorporating an oddments tray and the stubby gear selector.

Underneath is a wireless phone charger and key fob holder, along with twin cupholders and a storage box with a sliding armrest lid, all combining to create a funky, yet functional, space.

The steering wheel is smaller than most, without losing comfort or control, maximising driver thigh room, especially with adjustable height and reach.

Wheel-mounted buttons are the norm, the ASX wheel is loaded with functionality, from the adaptive cruise control and driver display adjustment on the left wing through to audio and telephone on the right side.

The paddle shifters are perfectly placed for fast changes up and down the 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT), providing fingertip control of the driving experience.

Making the most of the available space, the second row seats can

slide forwards and backwards for either more legroom or cargo space as required, the curved roofline maintains rear headroom with the seat slid backwards.

“THE ASX HAS GONE FULL EURO AND BRINGS A NEW LEVEL OF SOPHISTICATION AND SPORTINESS”

The cloth trimmed seats proved comfortable even through summer heat, while the concentric circle pattern was eye-catching!

Renault’s technology shines through when driving, delivering a precise and sporting flavoured ride, with a snappy and responsive 1.3-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine producing 113kW and

270Nm while providing a delightful mechanical soundtrack.

The DCT is like two transmissions in a single housing, allowing the next gear to be preselected when the current gear is engaged, providing lightning fast shifts in all conditions.

The clutches are computer-controlled, with just accelerator and brake pedals, gear shift decisions are made on numerous inputs including drive mode (Eco, Sport or Comfort), throttle position and road speed.

A key feature is the combined Auto Hold and Hill Start Assist, preventing the ASX from rolling forwards or backwards when parked on a slope, the computer uses sensors on the accelerator and brake to trigger the clutch, trying to balance the car on both can result in premature clutch wear.

The Hill Start Assist applies the park brake, releasing it as the accelerator is pressed, preventing clutch slip and vehicle rollback, making it a vital driving aid.

Another aid is the Lane Centring Assist, it automatically keeps the

ASX in middle of the lane, using a forward facing camera to ‘read’ the lane, this system can struggle with poorly maintained line marking, especially where lines have been scuffed and repainted, causing unexpected lane changes due to detecting multiple lines.

The electronic power steering is responsive and accurate, even small driver inputs trigger direction changes, without feeling nervous or twitchy.

Instead, the ASX has a taut, precise feel, encouraging driver engagement and providing a sporting character.

Similarly, the ride is tighter than before, without being overly stiff, it has a suppleness, allowing the ASX to be pushed into corners without harshness or jarring, big potholes and speedbumps will upset the ride, driving sensibly, without launching over kerbs, and it is a fun and comfortable experience.

The new ASX is a delightful and enjoyable drive, it is a huge move from the previous generation, with a Euro feel.

ASX has had a makeover.

MATCHING IT WITH THE BEST

Story continued from » p.60

McElduff said the upcoming Winter Games in Milano Cortina will be her first-ever Olympic experience following a long journey of twists and turns.

“I wasn’t able to fulfil my childhood dream of being an Olympian myself, but I am excited to represent my country in Milano Cortina in a different capacity,” she said.

“The Olympic Games are the pinnacle of our sport. I feel honoured to represent my country and I’m ready to play the role I need to in order to make sure our Australian athletes have everything they need to be successful.”

McElduff will also make history in Italy as the only female coach at the Olympics for Freestyle Aerial Skiing.

The massive Penrith Panthers fan said the Aussie team may be small, but you can expect very big things.

“Expect world-class performances!”

McElduff said.

“We might come from a sunburnt country, but we know how to ski with the best in the world.”

Super Monday!

Pubs, clubs and restaurants all over town will switch over their television sets to the Super Bowl this Monday morning as local football fans come together to cheer on this year’s contenders the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks.

Legendary franchise New England will be aiming for their seventh NFL Championship and first since 2019, while the formidable Seahawks will be searching for their first Super Bowl victory since their maiden title back in 2013.

The NFL’s popularity continues to surge in Australia and locations in Penrith and surrounding suburbs will be cashing in on that very hype in the coming days.

The Tattersalls Hotel in Penrith will once again be a hive of activity on Monday morning.

Local podcasters, The Armchair Champions, will be back on deck, recording their popular show live from the Station Street venue. Host Brett McVea wants

football fans to pop down to celebrate the NFL’s biggest day.

“We encourage everyone who turns up on the day to wear their team’s jersey or colours,” the passionate Patriots fan said.

For $50, Tatts will be slinging American themed food like cheeseburgers and buffalo wings as well as a bucket of Budweisers to enjoy during the game.

“If you don’t want the food and beverage package, people are welcome to come down and watch the game for free. We will also have three meat

raffles throughout the day and everyone who visits will get a free raffle ticket on entry to the venue,” McVea said.

Nearby on Henry Street, Wingboy Penrith will be hosting their first-ever Super Bowl party.

Kicking off at 9am, the popular restaurant will be open early to dine and watch the big game live from San Jose, California.

$70 bottomless packages are still available if you book online.

Over at The Grid, Penrith’s RSL’s newest dining precinct, there will be a fun hot dog eating

competition, with $500 going to the winner, as well as delicious wings and drink specials including $9 Jim Beam & Colas and $12 Whiskey Sours. It kicks off at 10am.

Panthers World of Entertainment will once again host arguably Penrith’s biggest Super Bowl celebration. The Basement will be turned into the ultimate Super Bowl viewing HQ, with massive feature screens live and loud. The club will be selling $2 chicken wings and $2 hot dogs from 9am to 11am, so get down early!

Down the highway, both St Marys Leagues Club and St Marys Diggers Club will be showing the game live with wings, cold beers and a whole heap of fun.

Other local venues showing the blockbuster between the Patriots and Seahawks include the Colyton Hotel, The Red Cow Hotel, Drink West and O’Donoghues in Emu Plains. Bookings may be required at each venue listed, so get in touch with them prior to your arrival to secure your place.

Tattersalls Hotel will host a Super Bowl party. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Renee McElduff.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Doing Penrith proud at the Open

TENNIS: Local teenager Malachi Smith has certainly had a school holidays to remember, working as a ballkid at the 2026 Australian Open in Melbourne. The 15-year-old has been watching tennis on television since he was young and always dreamed of being a ballkid at the first Grand Slam of the year. “In 2025, I decided to trial for AO26 after being selected as a ballkid for the United Cup in Sydney in 2024,” Malachi told Sports Shorts. “I had to travel to Melbourne in June and July last year for two trial sessions, which test your skills and fitness.” A month later, the Year 10 student was given the exciting news that he was chosen. Malachi then had to travel to Melbourne late last year for three ballkid training sessions, funding the trips down south all on his own. “I had to be in Melbourne for three weeks in January, so I was a ballkid for the week of the AO Qualifiers and then the two weeks of the AO Main Draw,” he said. Following a strong tournament in tough conditions, Malachi was chosen to be a ballkid for the Junior Boys Final last Sunday. “I was really happy about this as, out of 435 ballkids, I was amongst a handful that was still there on the last day,” Malachi said.

CRICKET: Penrith have gone down to UTS North Sydney in Round 13 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at North Sydney Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bat. Penrith were dismissed for 239 in the first innings. In reply, the Bears declared on an impressive 6/299. With plenty of game time left, a second innings was able to played. Penrith were dismissed for 184, with Max Becker top scoring again on 53. When North Sydney hit the crease, they ended on 7/93 when the match finished. Penrith will return to Howell Oval this weekend to play Campbelltown Camden. Penrith remain last on the Belvidere Cup ladder.

abandoned due to thunderstorms. Playing in a One-Day match, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. At bat, Sydney University posted 7/186 after 41 overs. Penrith bowler Aimee Ravot took 2/37. When Lady Cats hit the crease, they were travelling well sitting on 1/45, before thunderstorms ripped through the Penrith area and play was abandoned. Penrith will hit the road this Sunday to face-off with Sydney at Drummoyne Oval.

IRONMAN: It’s been confirmed that the upcoming Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney will be held on Sunday, May 3 at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.

Ironman in Oceania enjoyed a huge year in 2025, with strong participation growth and that is trending upwards again this year thanks to increased female participation and sustained demand across its event calendar.

“What we’re seeing across Oceania is a real shift in how people connect with Ironman,” Ironman Managing Director, Michelle Pepper said. “It’s incredibly encouraging to see more women, young athletes and first-timers stepping onto start lines, not just to race, but to challenge themselves and invest in their long-term health and wellbeing. While participation growth is important, what excites us most is the

sense of community and purpose surrounding these events. Ironman is increasingly part of people’s lifestyles, and that momentum gives us great confidence as we head into 2026.”

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have fallen back down to earth, smashed by Sydney FC 4-1 at Allianz Stadium last Saturday night. Incredibly, the Wanderers got on the board first via new recruit Ryan Fraser in the first minute of the game. The Sky Blues equalised not long after in the 10th minute through Victor Campuzuano and the scores stayed level at 1-all at half-time. Things fell apart very quickly for the Wanderers in the second half, with Sydney FC putting three goals in the back of the net during a 20-minute span. The huge defeat, which got very fiery in the dying stages, was the Wanderers’ first loss under interim head coach Gary van Egmond. Western Sydney will look to bounce back this Saturday night when they return to CommBank Stadium to

play Melbourne City.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers A-League Women’s team have secured back-toback wins, defeating Sydney FC 3-2 at Allianz Stadium for the first time since December 2019. In a night defined by belief, resilience and big moments, goals to Amy Chessari, Allyssa Ng-Saad and Yuan Cong sealed a famous win for the Wander Women, holding firm through a tense finish to deliver a result that will live long in Wanderers memory. After playing Melbourne City on Wednesday evening, the Wanderers will battle Adelaide United at CommBank Stadium this Saturday afternoon.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have announced more re-signings ahead of the 2026 NBL1 East season. Local junior Sofia Hunt will return to Penrith’s women’s team for her second year with the Panthers. “I decided to sign with Penrith because I’ve been here

since I was young and I love the club and the culture that is built around it. I’m excited to show my improvements on the court and to play with all my teammates. A goal I want to achieve this season is to establish myself as a defensive threat on the court,” she said. Also returning to the Panthers for 2026 is Brodie Schwarzer and Meleke Jenkins, while young gun Simun Krpez joins from Bankstown’s successful Youth Men’s team. “I decided to sign with Penrith because of the strong standards within the club and the clear direction it’s heading in as it continues to grow and compete at a high level,” he said. “My goal this season is to contribute consistently on and off the court, help the team win games, and play my role in strengthening the club and pushing it forward as a whole.”

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.

Malachi Smith.

Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney arrives in Penrith this May.

The Wander Women are on a winning streak.

SPORT

GAMES BEGIN

53 Aussie athletes will be vying for a medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, marking the nation’s biggest Winter Olympic Team in 12 years.

While there won’t be any local athletes competing for Gold over the next two weeks, one Cranebrook woman will be involved as a coach.

Renee McElduff, who grew up locally and went to school in Glenmore Park and Cranebrook, will coach the Australian Aeriel Ski Team when the events get underway soon in Livigno, Italy.

McElduff played a variety of sports as

a kid and spent a decade training to be an Olympic gymnast before one day she was recruited into Freestyle Aeriel Skiing having never seen snow.

“In Australia, we often recruit gymnasts for their acrobatic ability and transfer the acrobatic talent to snow,” McElduff told the Weekender from Europe.

“I started skiing in the Australian Aerial Skiing talent transfer program at 16 and never looked back.”

The now 34-year-old said her greatest achievement as an athlete was winning the 2015 Lake Placid World Cup, while also competing in the 2015 World Championships in Austria.

McElduff retired from competing in 2017 and soon turned her attention to the fast-paced, ever-changing world of high performance sport.

“I’ve always been passionate about coaching and, when I reflect on my career as a Freestyle Aerial Skier, I know I am more gifted as a coach than I ever was as an athlete,” McElduff admitted.

“I had always wanted to coach our Australian Aerial Ski Team, however at the time we did not have an Australian facility and the job meant working 11 months of the year overseas.”

Still figuring out her career path, McElduff started coaching gymnastics

– her first love – before relocating to Brisbane in 2020 when the world-class Geoff Henke Olympic Winter Training Centre opened at the Sleeman Sports Complex.

“I knew immediately that was where I wanted to be, so without hesitation my wife and I moved to Brisbane and I fell back in love with the team and job right away,” McElduff said.

While working at the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia, McElduff led a young and emerging group of athletes before eventually being rewarded with the opportunity to be named head coach.

Renee McElduff celebrating with Australian athletes.

NATHAN TAYLOR

GREAT ESCAPE

Let Scotty do all the work for you!

For many people, the idea of organising a holiday for themselves or their family is about as appealing as the thought of root canal surgery. Coordinating flights, accommodation, tours, transfers, visas, travel insurance and everything in between can quickly turn excitement into anxiety.

“Believe me — I hear this all the time from my Travellingguy family, and it’s often the reason they choose to travel with me,” said Scott McRae of The Travellingguy.”

“With over 15 years of experience as a TV travel show host and producer, followed by years as a travel writer and now as The Travellingguy, I understand those feelings well. Even I have those moments! The difference is that I’m supported by a trusted, professional team on the ground in every country I visit. Knowing they are experienced, switched on, and genuinely care makes all the difference –and it certainly keeps stress levels low.

“Of course, travel issues can arise – they always do – but wherever we are in the world, my team is ready with solutions. Through my years in television and travel, I’ve been fortunate to build incredible relationships. These aren’t just contacts; they’re people I consider family. They consistently go above and beyond to ensure our adventures run smoothly, while also opening doors to experiences well beyond the standard tourist trail.

Travellingguy holidays appeal to families, couples, and solo travellers alike. With group sizes capped at just 14 guests, it feels more like travelling with new friends than being part of a large tour group.

“I love being with people, sharing laughs,

“This allows me to design holidays that include the must-see highlights alongside unique, memorable experiences. Free days are always built into my tours too – because no one wants to come home from a holiday needing another holiday! It’s all about finding the right balance.”

and having fun along the way. Yes, we’ll explore the history, culture, arts, and music of each destination – but I promise you, it will never be boring,” McRae said.

“If becoming part of The Travellingguy family sounds like something you’d enjoy, let’s talk. Let’s connect and explore the world together. Trips are already in motion for the second half of 2026, and plans for 2027 are

well underway, with Vietnam and Cambodia in January and March on sale now.”

Email Scott at info@thetravellingguy.com to ask about his next tours.

Early Bird deals are available now for Africa in September, Japan in October, and Sri Lanka and the Maldives this year.

“Stop dreaming. Start living. And let me do all the hard work for you,” he said.

Scott McRae, aka The Travellingguy, with one of his tours.

GREAT ESCAPE

Say yee-ha to Nashville in 2026

Despite its growing popularity –particularly amongst the bachelor and bachelorette party brigade – Nashville isn’t necessarily on the must-do list of travellers to the United States.

But amidst a country music resurgence and the ever-growing party vibes it generates, ‘music city’ is back in a big way – no longer just as a destination for die-hard Johnny Cash or Dolly Parton fans, but for a whole new generation experiencing ‘three chords and the truth’. A warning first up: Nashville is busy these days, especially on a Friday and Saturday night. Which is why arriving on a Monday afternoon turned out to be a blessing in disguise of sorts.

As we hit the bars of Broadway – the main tourist hot spot, full of live music venues – it was a little quieter than you’d find it on a weekend, but certainly not a ghost town. Indeed Nashville is pumping with decent numbers and great music seven days a week, from late morning through to the wee hours of the next day.

Most of the live music venues are country-based, but you’ll find a few that aren’t specific to the genre – including Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk and Jon Bon Jovi’s bar.

But when in Rome, right?

There’s a few country bars that are a must on Broadway: Tootsies, which first opened in 1960 and offers three levels of live music in an unmissable purple building, is a particular favourite.

It stands next to Robert’s Western World,

another must-visit especially if you’re a fan of older country music and not the modern, pop-leaning style.

The larger Chief’s, which backing from country music superstar Eric Church, is a relatively new addition on Broadway and

offers terrific views from its rooftop, while both Luke’s 32 Bridge and Aldean’s both offer terrific music, food and drinks menus. Broadway is big, but not that big – you can easily bar hop and let the night take you away, so don’t be too pre-planned here.

A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a great way to learn about how Nashville became the home of country, and I’d highly recommend adding the Studio B tour – a short bus ride to an iconic recording studio where the likes of Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their biggest hits.

About 20 minutes from the centre of town you’ll find the Grand Ole Opry, which for the last 100 years has been the home of country music.

Another country music icon is the Bluebird Cafe, which first opened in the early 1980s but had a huge resurgence in popularity a few years back due to its regular appearances on the hit TV show ‘Nashville’.

Food is another big part of the Nashville scene, and there’s so much to choose from. You’ll find famous Nashville hot chicken pretty much anywhere, but Hattie B’s – despite being a chain – was by far our favourite.

If you like Mexican, make sure you book in for Bakersfield – a jug of margarita to kick things off, and then some of the most awesome authentic Mexican food you’ll ever have.

As for BBQ? You can’t go past Martin’s BBQ Joint, which has a few locations in Nashville. Nashville is getting a little expensive as it cashes in on the country music boom and becoming a party hot spot, but it is well worth visiting on your next American trip – both for its extraordinary music scene and it’s special history.

– Troy Dodds

Broadway is one of the highlights of Nashville.

GREAT ESCAPE

Lithgow comes alive for festival

The Seven Valleys Wild Food Festival in Lithgow is the most exciting new culinary event on the regional calendar and is set to become one of New South Wales’ premiere food festivals!

On February 21, Lithgow’s main street will transform into a vibrant celebration of wild flavours, local stories, and regional culture.

Produced by Lithgow City Council, visitors can explore a program rich in taste and history featuring a curated producer’s market, immersive workshops, live entertainment, and a boutique beer garden showcasing the region’s finest craft drinks.

It’s all about exploring and connecting with the wider ecosystem, the community, and to culture through wild food from the untamed world and embracing flavours that are gathered, foraged, discovered, or produced beyond the boundaries of conventional processes.

At the heart of the festival is the

WildFire Kitchen Stage, where headline chef Analiese Gregory will showcase her adventurous style of cooking with wild ingredients. Hailed as one of the most exciting chefs of her generation, Analiese swapped the dazzling Michelin star restaurants of Paris’s Le Meurice and Sydney’s Quay for rugged Tasmania, where she now hunts, fishes, forages, and cooks with the seasons.

The Wildfire Kitchen Stage will also feature Sharon Winsor, the recent recipient of the Bill Granger Trailblazer Award at the Good Food Awards 2025 and founder of Indigiearth, Warakirri Dining Experience, and the Ngukirri Foundation. Sharon’s inspirational approach to bushfoods and native flavours has positioned her as Australia’s most awarded and successful Indigenous chef.

Joining them in showcasing local produce and the flavours of the Seven Valleys will be wild food specialist chef Elijah Attard and local chef Leila Khazma. The

fiery stage will be set by renowned Pitmaster Adam Roberts, who is a is a multi-award-winning barbecue champion and cookbook author.

More festival highlights include bushfood yarning and tasting workshops with Felicity Kerslake from the Australian Bush Food Education Centre, plus talks and demos featuring some of the country’s leading voices in wild food including Corey Grech, Gabriel Gutnik, Ilaria Vanni, and Alex Sehring.

Among the valued guests is celebrated local forager, author, educator, and advocate for wild food, Diego Bonetto.

“Wild food foraging is important because it reconnects us to place. It teaches us to read the land, respect seasons, and understand that real nourishment comes from relationship, not extraction,” Bonetto said.

Find out more about the festival online at https://www.sevenvalleyswildfood.com.

Don’t miss the Seven Valleys Wild Food Festival.

GREAT ESCAPE

Menopause Retreat answers demand for more support

Escape Haven, Bali's most-awarded luxury women's retreat and wellness brand, is redefining how women experience menopause through its pioneering Menopause Retreat, the first of its kind in Bali, created to support, empower and transform women during this pivotal life stage.

Developed in response to years of candid conversations with guests, the Menopause Retreat was created to address the significant physical, emotional and hormonal changes women experience in their 40s and 50s – a phase of life that remains widely misunderstood and under-supported.

Unlike generic wellness offerings, Escape Haven's approach to menopause is highly personalised. Each guest begins with a comprehensive pre-retreat health questionnaire and diagnostics, allowing programs to be tailored on a one-to-one basis rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.

Escape Haven founder and respected wellness entrepreneur Janine Cottle said the retreat was born from a clear gap in both education and care.

“Menopause came up again and again in conversations on retreat,” she said.

“Women were confused, overwhelmed and often starved for clear, reliable information. There's an enormous amount of noise around menopause, and it was still treated

as a taboo subject. We wanted to change that and create a space where women feel informed, supported and understood.”

The Menopause Retreat is structured around three core pillars – body, mind and soul, reflecting Escape Haven's holistic philosophy.

“We wanted to... create a space where women feel informed, supported and understood”

Nestled by a river in the heart of Canggu and close to the beach, Escape Haven provides a tranquil, supportive environment where women can step away from daily pressures and focus fully on their health and wellbeing.

Through its Menopause Retreat, Escape Haven continues to position itself not only as a luxury wellness destination, but as a leader in education, advocacy and preventative care for women navigating midlife and beyond.

Visit https://www.escapehaven.com.

Popular resort’s upgrade elevates holiday experience

Wyndham Resort Torquay has unveiled a refurbishment of its vacation club rooms designed to elevate the guest experience, while reflecting the natural beauty of this stunning coastal destination.

The refurbishment has seen 66 rooms – utilised primarily by owners of Club Wyndham South Pacific – revitalised with a beach-inspired design that perfectly complements Torquay's reputation as the surfing capital of Australia. From the moment guests step inside, they are greeted by a refined palette of taupe, navy and cream that captures the essence of the ocean and sand, creating a sense of calm and escape.

The rooms have been updated with new artwork, new beds and sofa beds, stylish armchairs, contemporary lighting, fresh window furnishings and new shower screens for a modern finish. Nature has been brought inside with beachy décor pieces, VJ wall panelling, and live plants in every room.

These thoughtful touches create an environment that feels like home to guests – where they can relax in comfort and style after a day exploring the region.

Torquay is one of Victoria's most loved holiday destinations, renowned for its worldclass beaches, surf culture, and laidback charm. Guests at Wyndham Resort Torquay are at the starting line to the spectacular Great Ocean Road, one of Australia's most loved drives, and close to local wineries, coastal walks, and vibrant dining options.

It is an ideal base for families, couples, and friends seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Warren Cullum, Senior Vice President Operations for Travel + Leisure Co., the Developer of Club Wyndham South Pacific, said the refurbishment is part of a consistent renewal cycle across the club's 68 properties.

“Our commitment to our club owners is to regularly upgrade and refresh their properties, to reflect the best of each destination and ensure accommodation has a contemporary feel each stay. It is part of our brand standard to invest into our club properties in order to create the best holiday experience possible for our owners and guests,” he said.

For details, visit https://www.travelandleisureco.com.

Escape Haven in Bali has launched a Menopause Retreat.

Inside the refurbished rooms.

Relax at Wyndham Resort Torquay.