Western Weekender January 15 2026 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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the western Thursday, January 15, 2026

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Colour in an iconic Penrith landmark Page 63

Celebrating 35 years!

Andrew Hill. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ONE-ON-ONE WITH NEW PANTHERS BOSS

FIRST BABY BORN IN 2026

STUCK FOR A HOLIDAY ACTIVITY?

See Page 11

See Page 21

NEW YEAR NEW YOU See Page 18

MAN WITH A PLAN

NEPEAN PHYSIE SUCCESS

Andrew Hill has taken on one of Penrith’s biggest jobs. Troy Dodds reports on Pages 2-3.

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LOCAL NEWS

A Hill to climb, but new He’s got big shoes to fill, but new Panthers Group CEO Andrew Hill is excited to TROY DODDS

ndrew Hill walks through the foyer of Panthers Leagues Club. He chats briefly with a staff member at reception, before he jokes with two elderly members about the staged photos he's the subject of for this article. Across the road at the Tori Cafe inside the Pullman, he notes it's his third visit – and subsequently his

third coffee – of the day. There may be a fourth later, he quips. There's been a lot of coffees since Hill became CEO of Panthers late last year. Plenty of listening. Lots of soaking in the world that is Panthers. "There's nothing small about Panthers," Hill said of the job he's taken on. "It's such an iconic brand in both hospitality and sport and perhaps more importantly community.

What appeals to me is having a skillset that brings community, sport and the club industry together." Despite his extensive background in rugby league, Hill is at pains to point out that his involvement in the football side of Panthers' operations will be on an as-needed basis, and very much hands off. "I don't think Matt [Cameron] and Ivan [Cleary] need any help," he joked. "They know what they're doing. I

see my role as being a resource for everyone in the football club. If they need to draw upon my experience then I'm here, but I won't be getting in their way." Hill is not about to go on a mission of change for change's sake. He acknowledges the impact of his predecessor in Brian Fletcher in putting Panthers in a strong position for the future and wants to build on that. "I bring fresh eyes to the role and

hopefully a continuation of what works well," he said. "We won't change things that are working well. My job is to enhance things that are working well and look for things that we can improve on. "Brian and past CEOs and Boards have all done a wonderful job in bringing Panthers to where it is now. What I want to do is enhance that and continue for this to be a source of pride for our members. This is their job and I'm really proud to be their CEO working with them." Like Fletcher, Hill acknowledges that Panthers needs to be less reliant on gaming in the future as generational shift, regulation and general wants of members continues to change the focus.

“I bring fresh eyes to the role and hopefully a continuation of what works well” "The biggest challenge is making sure we are true to what our core business is, which is to be a destination for members to come and enjoy in a safe, family friendly environment that can cater for so many people in the community," he said. "There's not one answer around the greatest challenge. There's probably lots of challenges that we don't know about yet – whether it's legislative changes or community expectation challenges. But I think if we continue to work closely with members we'll continue to face those challenges and enhance what's already here." He points to the Pullman Hotel and Western Sydney Convention Centre as key areas of growth for the club. The completion of the new Penrith Stadium will also be on Hill's plate, particularly given Panthers

Panthers Group CEO Andrew Hill. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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LOCAL NEWS

boss hits ground running lead the prominent sporting and hospitality organisation into its next chapter WHO IS ANDREW HILL? • Grew up as a Parramatta Eels fan

• Worked as General

Manager at the Eels and CEO of the Bulldogs

• Spent five years working at the NRL

• Was CEO of the Rugby

League World Cup in 2017

• Played a key role in the PNG NRL bid

Panthers Group CEO Andrew Hill. Photo: Melinda Jane.

and maintain our footprint and relevance and commitment. "We've also got 150,000-odd members who want to say hello as well. "Everyone has an opinion of Panthers. Everyone feels an obliga-

tion to tell me what that opinion is, so there's lots of listening and then working out what is next and what's important and what do we need to grow and enhance." Growing up in the 1980s and watching Parramatta become such

an iconic rugby league brand, Hill sees parallels with the existing success of the Panthers. "The Penrith success in the last 10 years has lead to a whole generation of young boys and girls who live in Penrith now who will be long-term

Penrith supporters because of how successful the team is," he said. "When you have the best player and the best team in the world, it bodes well for your long-term success.” As Hill continues to find his feet, he will have one eye on next month's Board election – which could result in new faces emerging as part of the club's governance. He is also working towards his first Annual General Meeting in March.

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Photo: Destination NSW

will now be a tenant of a Venues NSW-operated facility. "It's a different relationship to the past. It's a Venues NSW responsibility to run the stadium as opposed to our responsibility with the Council in previous years," he said. "It brings an opportunity though. How do we help bring more people to Penrith? It's not just about the Panthers and about our precinct but for the community. The new stadium is going to have big attractions and bring a lot of people here and when they're here we want them to have the best experience possible in Penrith. "We certainly feel a responsibility to showcase Penrith to a wider audience and not just Sydney-siders. We're hoping the airport will create a lot of international visitation." A couple of months into the job, with the Christmas period thrown in, Hill is still focused on listening – to members, his executive team and staff, and the wider Penrith community. "I'm still meeting people and there's a long list of people for me to reach out to," he said. "Everyone is important. We are all working together to help grow

S C E N I C W O R L D K ATO O M B A

•

B E Y O N D S K Y W AY. C O M . A U

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender

From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

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

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

www.westernweekender.com.au facebook.com/westernweekender @westernweekender @westernweekender @wwpenrith @westernweekender.bsky.social @westernweekender Western Weekender

Welcome to a milestone year for the Western Weekender W

Issue 1728 Advertising: Editorial:

sales@westernweekender.com.au

elcome to 2026. Here’s hoping you had an enjoyable summer holiday period. If you’re anything like me, settling back into the daily routine takes a little bit more time each year. I’m already missing the pool and 11am margaritas. But we are back on deck, ready to deliver a huge year of news and information to Penrith. It is our privilege to be this city’s paper of record, and we can’t wait to see what the year has in store. And this is somewhat of a milestone year for The Western Weekender. In 2026, we celebrate our 35th anniversary.

news@westernweekender.com.au

Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Weekender Newsroom: @natetaylor87

Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor | Journalist: Emily Chate | Journalist: Ally Hall |

@troydodds

@chateemily

@allyhall00

Photographer: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622 Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Maria Van Den Broek, Callum Gilbert, Rebecca Vella

It is a testament to how beloved the Weekender is that it has only had three publishers in its 35-year existence, and always remained in independent ownership. Its return to local ownership in 2015 via Kathryn Garton – after a few years in the wilderness – was an important step in what would be a roller-coaster ride for Penrith’s media scene over the past decade. I am proud to say that the Weekender has also only had three Editors in its history, a remarkable stat when you consider the paper’s long life in Penrith. From Lyndal Edwards to Bernard Bratusa and now myself, the people sitting at this desk have always known they hold the keys to an important part of Penrith’s story, and have never taken it for granted.

To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Kacey Wilson, Madeline Dantier, Ian Beard

Accounts & Bookings Coordinator: Amanda Coskerie

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

From humble beginnings in March of 1991, the Weekender built a strong reputation. And while it has been through various changes and twists and turns over the years, one thing that hasn’t changed is its commitment to telling Penrith’s stories. If you would have told the paper’s founders back in 1991 that the Weekender would ultimately be Penrith’s great media survivor, outlasting the likes of News Corp and Fairfax in the city, you probably would have been taken to the nearest hospital for checks. But that’s exactly what happened. With a love for rugby league, a passion for local politics and a promise to always put Penrith first, the Weekender has survived everything thrown at it.

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

INDEX

For me 2026 is also somewhat of a milestone year. While it’s hard to fathom that it is my 17th year at The Western Weekender as its Editor, it also marks my 25th anniversary as a working journalist. I started writing about rugby league in 2001, at the height of the Internet boom, and have never really stopped. And as much as a few more portfolios have been added to the repertoire over the years, the fact I still get to write about something I’m passionate about is a great gift.

News..........................................................1-25 Business............................................26-30 Special Feature..............................31-36

Recently, we’ve been working to build an archive of front pages from the Weekender’s history. Some of the archive has been lost over the years, or weren’t part of ownership changes at different stages. As we re-build that archive, it has been fascinating to look back at the stories of Penrith through the 1990s, the 2000s and then the last decade and a half. It is extraordinary how much Penrith has grown during this time. But it has also been fascinating to watch the paper’s evolution through those front pages as well. The front pages were simpler in the early 1990s, a little more forthright later in the decade and then much stronger as the 2000s arrived. We also see the transformation of the paper from being the ‘only good news happens in Penrith’ paper to a legitimate news source, one that ultimately outlasted its competitors. So many communities have lost their local newspaper over the last few years. In many cases, there is no digital equivalent. That cannot be a good thing. We are so proud that we are here flying the flag for Penrith. Let’s see what 2026 has in store.

Entertainment..............................37-46 Western Property.......................47-53 The Experts....................................54-56

Relax & Unwind..........................57-66 Motoring............................................67-68 Sport.....................................................69-72

Tanya Davies MP Member for Badgerys Creek

anya

Contact T

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 9834 2966 (02) 9834 6291 tanyadaviesmp

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

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

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Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road, St Clair NSW 2759

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LOCAL NEWS

Unfinished business Carlie Towns will trek to Everest Base Camp in April – a feat her dad never got to do EMILY CHATE

local woman will honour her father’s legacy by completing the feat he never got the chance to finish all while raising funds for charity. 48-year-old Carlie Towns will be joined by her daughter Lillie Rickards and close friends Paulla Agius and Alex Goggins in April to make the trip into Kathmandu where they will spend 11 nights and 12 days trekking to Everest Base Camp. This journey has been inspired by Carlie’s father, Ched Towns – who has a reserve named after him in Glenmore Park – who passed away at 48-years-old in January 2000 while he was preparing to become the first blind man to climb Mount Everest. In the early 1970s Ched was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), a degenerative eye disease that leads to total blindness. “He was a legend,” Carlie reflected with a smile. “He did not let blindness change his outlook to life; well, he did at the beginning but after he accepted what was going on that’s when life gave back to him.”

Paulla Agius, Carlie Towns, Tyson the dog, and Alex Goggins. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Before losing his sight, Ched was an accomplished athlete who had earned a place in the Panthers reserve grade team, but a lot of his accomplishments came after his diagnosis, including competing in hundreds of triathlons. Later, Ched completed a series of adventures including kayaking from

Australia to Papua New Guinea, completing the Kokoda track, riding a mountain bike across the Simpson Desert, and was the first blind man to complete an accelerated freefall from 12,000 feet. Ched’s daughter Carlie carries the RP gene and in her 30s began experiencing night blindness before later

being officially diagnosed with RP. “I went through my dark time when I got diagnosed where I was not coping as a single mother and I was going through a divorce and it took me a couple of years to get out of it but I do believe it was from the strength of my father and the legacy he left that I turned to and thought I

don’t have him anymore but I have him in me,” Carlie said. Carlie will now honour her father’s legacy by hiking to Everest Base Camp, signifying the feat he never got the chance to complete. “The purpose behind Everest is remembering the legacy of Dad but I also love challenging myself,” she said. “I find that I thrive better when I’ve got something to work towards.” Going with Carlie is Paulla Agius, who said it was never a question whether she would join her friend. “I’m a down for anything type of person!” Agius laughed. “When Carlie and I started working together over a year ago we just clicked, almost like we knew each other for ages.” Not only will the women be challenging themselves while honouring Ched’s memory, but they are also raising funds for the Look for Life Foundation, which supports research into eye diseases, visit chuffed.org/project/carliedoeseverest for more information. The women will be documenting their progress. Keep up-to-date with their journey @true_vision_towns or @basically.fitt on Instagram.

Penrith Beach Western Sydney’s best place to beat at the heat

Penrith Beach is back for another summer, giving locals a great way to cool off close to home. Penrith Beach offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with calm waters, soft sand and plenty of space to unwind. Swim safely under the watch of ĞĉÿêĀŠÃŋåŒǣȋŒňĞÃŒąȋÃÞĬŠŚȋŷĉŚąȋŚąêȋěĉåŒǣȋĬŋȋŒĉĤňĞŽȋŒĬÃěȋŠňȋŚąêȋŒŠĥŒąĉĥêǢȌ

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Throughout the season, you can also take part in free safety and wellbeing programsǣȋĉĥßĞŠåĉĥĀȋĘŠĥĉĬŋȋĞĉÿêŒÃŶĉĥĀȋŒêŒŒĉĬĥŒȋÃĥåȋŒěĉĥǹßÃĥßêŋȋßąêßěŒǢȌ

Penrith Beach is open daily throughout summer, with free entry. Plan your visit (including opening & closing times), and ƌĥåȋĬŠŚȋĤĬŋêȋÃÞĬŠŚȋÿŋêêȋŒÃÿêŚŽȋÃĥåȋŷêĞĞÞêĉĥĀȋňŋĬĀŋÃĤŒǤȋ www.nsw.gov.au/penrithbeach

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

LAWandORDER Police Snapshot

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Legal Matters

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

WITH DANIEL MCKINNON

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

Penrith: Woman found carrying glass pipe At 12.50am on Saturday, January 10, police were patrolling High Street, Penrith, when they stopped and had a conversation with a 41-year-old North St Marys woman who appeared to be under the effect of drugs. Police located a glass pipe in the bag that the 41-year-old woman was carrying as well as photo identification belonging to another person. The 41-year-old woman was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, February 13.

episode while travelling with friends to a funeral. Police officers commenced CPR until Paramedics arrived and administered adrenaline, intubated the 69-year-old and used a defibrillator to restore a pulse. The man was then transported to Westmead Hospital via a green light corridor where he underwent emergency surgery. Senior medical practitioners who worked on the scene attributed the survival of the 69-year-old to the quick and professional response by local police.

Penrith: Woman charged after trespassing into liquor store

Penrith: Seven new police officers hit the ground

At 9.45am on Thursday, January 8, a 40-year-old Kingswood woman attended a liquor store on Woodriff Street. The woman was refused service due to an existing banning notice she had received. The woman then dropped the four pack of glass bottles she was carrying onto the floor causing them to smash as she left the store. Police later caught up with the woman and she was officially charged. The woman will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, February 19.

341 new police recruits recently graduated from the Goulburn Police Academy and have been deployed to 57 Police Area Commands and Police Districts, serving as General Duties Officers. Seven of those have been assigned to the Nepean Police Area Command. State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown congratulated the recruits on their commitment to serving the Penrith community. “I warmly welcome the seven new recruits to the Nepean Police Area Command,” McKeown said. “They will play an important role in delivering safer streets and stronger communities. “I’m grateful for their decision to put on the uniform and dedicate themselves to serving and protecting our people in Penrith. “I look forward to supporting them in their work and seeing the contribution they’ll make to our community.”

Penrith: Man refuses breath test, later charged with drink driving At 11pm on Tuesday, January 7, a 29-yearold Emu Plains man drove through a roundabout at the intersection of Bel-Air Road and Coreen Avenue and collided with another car. The man failed to stop and continued driving before stopping and taking off on foot. Several witnesses and the driver of the impacted car called police. The 29-year-old was soon found but refused to submit to a breath test. The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where his behaviour toward police remained belligerent and argumentative. The man was later subjected to a breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.151. Police suspended the man’s licence on the spot and formally charged him with high range drink driving. The 29-year-old will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

St Marys: Quick-thinking cops save man’s life At 1.15pm on Monday, January 5, police responded to a medical emergency on the Great Western Highway in St Marys. A 69-year-old male was suffering a medical

Kingswood: 25-year-old woman remains missing Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from Kingswood. 25-year-old Chloe Carroll was last seen at Derby Street, Kingswood, at about 1.30pm on Monday, January 12. Following inquires, police believe she was also seen in Argyle Street, Parramatta about 9.30am on Tuesday, January 13. When she couldn’t be located or contacted officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command were contacted and commenced inquiries to locate her. Police and family hold concerns for Chloe’s welfare. Chloe is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 150-160cm tall, of thin build, with blonde hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing black tights, black shirt, pale pink Asics shoes, white cap, and carrying a dark-coloured bag.

Generations of Trust.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Happy New Year from the Team at Bateman Battersby Complete Legal. We hope everyone in our community had a happy and safe holiday season. We have hit the ground running and are looking forward to assisting individuals and businesses with their legal needs in 2026. We thought we would start the year with a column summarising the wide range of legal services we provide. Here’s a list of some of the things we can help you with this year:

Property Law and Conveyancing We have decades of experience assisting people buying, selling and leasing all types of property. Whether you are a first home buyer purchasing a three bedroom unit in a strata complex or an upsizer purchasing your dream home we have you covered. If you are operating in the commercial or industrial space and are buying, selling or leasing, we can assist you with all three. Perhaps you are experiencing another issue such as a legal dispute in relation to a property. We also have an experienced litigation team who can assist.

Estate Planning and Deceased Estates Including Will Disputes We have one of the most well resourced Wills and Estates Teams in western Sydney. We regularly prepare Wills, Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship documents for clients. For those of you with more complex personal or business circumstances we can assist with complex Estate planning including testamentary trusts. If you are an Executor of a Will or a beneficiary of a deceased estate, we can assist you in obtaining a Grant of Representation (Probate) and completing all of the jobs that need to be done to finalise the Estate. We also have particular expertise in Will Disputes. Whether you are making or defending a claim our team can offer first class advocacy and representation.

Business and Commercial Law Our expert Business and Commercial Law Team can help you with every aspect of your businesses legal needs. Perhaps you are setting up a business and need something

like a Partnership Agreement or Shareholders Agreement. Maybe you are exiting a business or acquiring one and need assistance conducting your due diligence or preparing a Sale Contract. You might not be seeing eye to eye with your business partner or are in the unfortunate position that you have found yourself in some sort of commercial dispute. We offer comprehensive legal services in this space.

Family Law One of the very unfortunate inevitabilities of relationships is that sometimes they breakdown. Our Family Law Team regularly helps people who are entering relationships with things like Cohabitation Agreements, having come to the end of their relationship and need to finalise matters formally by way of things like property settlements (asset division) and custody of children. We can also assist with the paperwork that comes with things like divorce.

Employment Law We have one of the only solicitors practicing in Employment Law in Penrith on our staff. Whether you are an employee or an employer, you need expert advice to navigate employment disputes including representation in the Fair Work Commission and/or Federal Circuit Court. We provide a range of Employment Law services including things like preparing Employment Contracts, providing advice about things like bringing someone’s employment to an end, representing employees who may have been mistreated by their employer and providing general advice in relation to things like unfair dismissal, termination, leave entitlements and redundancy. As you can see, we are able to help people and businesses in relation to a large variety of legal matters. In addition to the above, we also help clients who find themselves caught up in the criminal legal system including in relation to traffic matters. If you need legal help, please contact us today. If you need help in an area in which we don’t practice, we will do our best to find another solution for you. We look forward to assisting you with your legal matters this year.

PLEDGE TO SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS Find out how you can support your paper at www.westernweekender.com.au/pledge.

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

Wills&& Wills Deceased Estates Deceased Estates

Business&& Business Commercial CommercialLaw Law

Disputes&& Disputes Litigation Litigation

Family FamilyLaw Law

Criminal CriminalLaw Law

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

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

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Australia Day 2026 Monday 26 January | 8AM-6PM Ripples Leisure Centre – Penrith & St Marys

ʹ˥˘˘ ʸ˩˘ˡ˧

News

Assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

penrith.city/australiaday

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

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

Meeting Dates Monday 2 February – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Monday 9 February – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting) Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs ● Celebrate Australia Day with a free pool party at Ripples Leisure Centre – Penrith and St Marys on Monday 26 January 2026, 8am–6pm! Join us for a day of summer fun with free entry, circus performances, and plenty of entertainment and workshops for all ages. Attendees can purchase food from the Kiosk, enjoy a poolside picnic, or indulge in a classic Aussie sausage sizzle. We encourage visitors to arrive early to secure their spot and make the most of the day’s festivities. This event is hosted by Penrith City Council and assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council. For more information visit ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˔˨˦˧˥˔˟˜˔˗˔ˬ ● Penrith City Council is inviting young people aged 12 to 24 years to help design a new mural for the Gipps Street ˅˘˖˥˘˔˧˜ˢˡ ˃˥˘˖˜ˡ˖˧ ˪˛˜˖˛ ˥˘Є˘˖˧˦ ˧˛˘˜˥ ˘ˡ˘˥˚ˬʟ ˖˥˘˔˧˜˩˜˧ˬ and diversity. Ideas for themes, colours, messages and stories can be submitted online until Friday 30 January 2026. To learn more about the project, and submit ideas visit ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢˬˢ˨˧˛ʠˠ˨˥˔˟ ● 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 ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˖˨˟˧˨˥˘˙˨˦˜ˢˡʥʣʥʩ ● Applications for three of Penrith City Council’s Community Funding Program grants close on Friday 27 February 2026, supporting projects that build a stronger, safer and more connected community. • Thriving communities grant • Safe communities – domestic and family violence grant • Local events grant These grants support local organisations, groups and professionals to deliver initiatives that make a real difference in Penrith. Learn more and explore upcoming opportunities at: ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˚˥˔ˡ˧˦

Public Notice

ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʦʤ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ Local Government Act 1993 ϝ ʶ˟˔˦˦˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ʿ˔ˡ˗

In pursuance of the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council proposes to classify ˣ˨˕˟˜˖ ˟˔ˡ˗ ˕ˬ ˖ˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˥˘˦ˢ˟˨˧˜ˢˡ ˔˦ ˜˗˘ˡ˧˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˆ˖˛˘˗˨˟˘ ʤʡ ˆ˖˛˘˗˨˟˘ ʤʭ 109 Russell Street, Emu Heights NSW 2750 ˃˥ˢˣˢ˦˘˗ ˅˘˦ˢ˟˨˧˜ˢˡʭ ʿˢ˧ ʤʤ ˆ˘˖ ʨ ʷ˃ʬʪʬʦʩʩ ˕˘ ˖˟˔˦˦˜Ѓ˘˗ ˔˦ operational land in accordance with Section 31 of the Local Government Act 1993. All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or ˖ˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ, within 28 days of the date of this notice. ʹˢ˥ ˔˟˟ ˘ˡˤ˨˜˥˜˘˦ʟ ˣ˟˘˔˦˘ ˖ˢˡ˧˔˖˧ʭ Rhi Slaughter on 4732 8316 or ˥˛˜ʡ˦˟˔˨˚˛˧˘˥ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

Development Applications The following Development Applications have been received by Council: • Pheonix Builders Pty Ltd Mod25/0208 ʤϝʬ ʿ˔ˠ˥ˢ˖˞ ˆ˧˥˘˘˧ʟ ʸˠ˨ ˃˟˔˜ˡ˦ ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʧʡʨʨʛʥʜ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˧ˢ ʷʴʤʥʢʣʤʬʧ ʛ˔˦ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˘˗ʜ including Internal and external design amendments and addition of room balconies to Stage 4 of motel accommodation Contact: Nick McMaster on 4732 8578 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026 • Think Planners Pty Ltd DA25/0972 ʥʫ ʿ˘ˢˡ˔ˬ ˃˔˥˔˗˘ʟ ʿ˘ˢˡ˔ˬ Construction of 2-storey mixed-use development including ˟ˢ˪˘˥ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ Єˢˢ˥ ˡ˘˜˚˛˕ˢ˨˥˛ˢˢ˗ ˦˨ˣ˘˥ˠ˔˥˞˘˧ʟ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ Єˢˢ˥ ˥˘˧˔˜˟ ˣ˥˘ˠ˜˦˘˦ ˫ ʦʟ ˖˔˙̻ ˔ˡ˗ ˠ˘˗˜˖˔˟ ˖˘ˡ˧˥˘ʟ Ѓ˥˦˧ Єˢˢ˥ ˖˛˜˟˗ care centre and 2 levels of basement car parking Contact: Jodie Schembri on 4732 7449 Closing Date: Sunday, 1 February 2026 • ʿˢ˧ ʤʤ ˆ˖˛ˢЃ˘˟˗˦ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ ʷʴʥʨʢʤʣʣʦ ʤʧʦϝʤʧʨ ʶˢ˫ ʴ˩˘ˡ˨˘ʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ 2-storey terrace dwellings x 5 and Torrens title subdivision x 5 lots Contact: Alexandra Pearce on 4732 7757 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026 • Richard Azar DA25/1000 ʤʧʤ ʶˢ˫ ʴ˩˘ˡ˨˘ʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ 2-storey terrace dwellings x 4 and Strata title subdivision x 4 lots Contact: Alexandra Pearce on 4732 7757 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026 • ˈ˃ʺ ʿˢ˥˗ ˆ˛˘˙Ѓ˘˟˗ ʤʩʥ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ ʷʴʥʨʢʤʣʤʬ ʤʩʥ ʿˢ˥˗ ˆ˛˘˙Ѓ˘˟˗ ʶ˜˥˖˨˜˧ʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ Fitout and use of Level 1 commercial tenancy as 142-place child care centre Contact: Sufyan Nguyen on 4732 8568 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Monument installed at M12 EMILY CHATE

new monument has been unveiled beside the M12 Motorway in a nod to the area’s rich heritage. Ready to open early next year, the M12 Motorway is a 16km east-west connection from Elizabeth Drive and the interchange at the M7 in the east through to The Northern Road in the west that will provide direct access into the Western Sydney Airport. The new Fleurs Monument, roughly 200 metres east of the Warami Drive interchange, has been located next to what was originally a runway at the first Badgerys Creek Airport built in 1944. The site was later set up by CSIRO as the Fleurs Radio Telescope, a leading scientific facility which helped corroborate the ‘Big Bang’ theory and had some of its scientists later go on to invent wireless Internet. The telescope and the research undertaken there is still referenced by scientists today and has links to the designs of some of Australia’s newest radio telescopes. The new monument is

Dev. Applications (cont.) • Indara Infrastructure Pty Ltd DA25/0988 122 Station Street, Penrith Telecommunications facility including 30m high monopole, antenna headframe including panel antennas and active antenna units, ground level outdoor equipment cabinet and associated infrastructure Contact: Alexandra Pearce on 4732 7757 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026 • SMT Architects Pty Ltd DA25/1034 293 & 293A Great Western Highway, Emu Plains Demolition of existing structures and construction of 2-storey and 82-place child care centre including at-grade car parking Contact: Hannah Vousden on 4732 7646 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026 • NF Billyard Pty Ltd DA25/1025 70 Lethbridge Avenue, Werrington Demolition of existing structures and construction 6 x 2-storey multi unit dwellings Contact: Arif Chohan on 4732 7476 Closing Date: Sunday 1 February 2026

Fleurs Monument.

called “the absence of Shain Cross Poles” and celebrates the home of four innovative radio telescopes: the Mills Cross, Shain Cross, the Chris Cross and the Fleurs Synthesis Telescope. Fleurs Synthesis Telescope listened to the stars with six telescopes built in the ‘70s. It was the most powerful radio telescope in the Southern Hemisphere at the time. For many years it was cutting edge and some of the technology from this site has been used to help develop our most modern radio astronomy facilities today. The new monument incorporates footings from the old telescopes and overlooks the site where the array once sat. Adjacent is a

resting place with a eucalypt canopy shelter from the Sun, representing one of six Aboriginal seasons, another feature celebrated along the new motorway. “Fleurs was a cradle of innovation for radio astronomy that cemented Australia’s position in this new and exciting field,” CSIRO Scientist John Reynolds said. “The telescopes not only broke new scientific ground but nurtured the next generation of radio astronomers, of whom I was lucky enough to be one. It’s fascinating to see some of the same technologies being used in radio astronomy’s newest enterprise, the international SKA project, now being built in Australia and South Africa.”

Integrated Developments Penrith City Council have received Development Applications in respect of the subject properties. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council. • Asher Richardson DA24/0938 Lot 6 DP 260976 and Lot 1 DP 595628, 79 Forrester Road, North St Marys Demolition of existing structures, erection of new warehouse and alterations and additions to existing industrial facility with associated car parking, landscaping, tree removal and signage The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the DPE-Water. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from Monday 19 January 2026 to Sunday 15 February 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is ˠ˔˗˘ ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA24/0938. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jodie Schembri on 4732 7449. • The Trustee for Legpro Orchard Hills Unit Trust DA25/0990 Lot 100 DP 1302830, 126–164 Castle Road, Orchard Hills Integrated Development for Torrens title subdivision of 1 lot into 2 super lots with no works The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from Monday 19 January 2026 to Sunday 1 February 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is ˠ˔˗˘ ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA25/0990. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jake Bentley on 4732 8087. • The Trustee for Legpro Orchard Hills Unit Trust DA25/1010 Lot 31 DP 1344; Lot 1 DP 863335; Lot 21 DP 1304679; Lot 1 DP 1311123 and Lot 2 DP 1311123, 190–226 Caddens Road, Orchard Hills Integrated Development for Staged Torrens title subdivision in Stage 14 of Orchard Hills North to Create 116 lots comprising of 113 residential lots, 2 residue lots and one drainage lot with associated civil and stormwater works including new roads, basins, works to existing roads, retaining walls, and new landscaping. The site has frontages to Caddens, Ulm, and Castle Roads The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from Monday 19 January 2026 to Sunday 1 February 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is ˠ˔˗˘ ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA25/1010. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jake Bentley on 4732 8087. Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥˦ ˢ˙ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦ ʷ˘ˣ˔˥˧ˠ˘ˡ˧ will be able to assist with your enquiries. Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Joke of the Week

Q: What did the lunch box say to the refrigerator? A: Don’t hate me because I’m a little cooler. Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

prize cupboard

eady to kick off a year at the movies in a big way? In the near future, a detective (Chris Pratt) stands on trial accused of murdering his wife. He has 90 minutes to prove his innocence to the advanced A.I. Judge (Rebecca Ferguson) he once championed, before it determines his fate. Starring Chris Pratt, Rebecca Ferguson, Kali Reis, Annabelle Wallis, Chris Sullivan, Kylie Rogers and directed by Timur Bekmambetov, 'Mercy' is the first big blockbuster of 2026 and hits cinemas on January 22.

You won't want to miss this fast-paced thriller, and the best place to see it is on the big screen. Visit your local cinema's website for session times. The Weekender has 10 double passes to see the film ‘Mercy’ to give away. For your chance to win a double pass, send an email to competitions@ w e s t e r n w e e k e n d e r. com.au with ‘Mercy’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Wednesday, January 21 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. w e s t e r n w e e k e n d e r. com.au or Weekender reception.

PET

iSPY

OF THE WEEK

my name: George my proud owner: Brendan i live in: Emu Heights a bit about me: I’m a very sweet and gentle Siberian Husky and love spending time with people, especially children! I was the largest of a litter of 13 puppies and I’m told I’m a brilliant best mate.

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

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

Dose of Dorin

The three reindeer were located on the top of a shop awning along High Street in Penrith during December.

It was upsetting to learn this week that Westfield Bondi Junction hero cop, Detective Inspector Amy Scott, is battling a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. Our thoughts are with her.

After the explosion of country music in recent years, it’s great to see rock now making a comeback. Yungblud’s show in Sydney last weekend was one of the best concerts in years.

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

A New Year’s Day they won’t forget ALLY HALL

t 12.58am on January 1 following an emergency C-section, Jasper Ross Kim became the first baby born at Nepean Hospital in 2026. At 55cm and 3.5kg, the browneyed bub was born to proud parents Madeline Ross and Seungjae Kim. “The birth started out pretty smooth,” Madeline shared her birth story. “I had an epidural about halfway through and after that it was pretty painless, but then the pain came back and I eventually had to have a C-section. “When I was feeding him for the first time, I was told that he was the first baby born at Nepean this year, which was really cool.” The name Jasper means ‘bringer of

treasure’, and Madeline described her newborn as exactly that – a true treasure. “He’s a really nice baby. He’s a bit unsettled at night-time, but he’s so lovely,” Madeline stated.

Jasper Ross Kim.

“It’s hard to describe his personality because he’s still in those early stages, but I think he’s going to be a good kid. “He was born with a lot of dark hair, and he has really big eyes which are a really nice brown colour. He’s very cute and he looks like a little monkey, especially when you burp him.” Jasper is the couple’s first child. Madeline and Seungjae had been dreaming about starting a family for many years, and last year the time was right as the pair relocated from Korea. “I was in Korea for about five years teaching English and we would often discuss when the right time to start a family would be,” Madeline explained. “We wanted to start a family in Australia, not Korea. We want him

Seungjae Kim, Madeline Ross and baby Jasper.

to have a freer life so he can be more independent and have more opportunities. “The education system over there is a little bit stressful and competitive, so we wanted him to grow up in Australia.” Madeline told the Weekender she

had a great experience at Nepean Hospital, supported by helpful nurses and midwives. Now that chapter has closed, she looks forward to watching her son grow. “I want him to grow up to be his own person and to be happy, healthy and loving life.”

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Major development proposed at empty Leonay Parade lot

Titan of St Marys Rugby League Club passes away

The empty lot where the development is proposed. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

n empty lot at Leonay could soon be transformed into a multi-million dollar retail development. A Development Application (DA) currently before Penrith City Council outlines plans for the construction of a two-storey mixed use development which will include a supermarket, three retail premises, medical centre, a 64-place childcare centre as well as two levels of basement parking at 28 Leonay Parade. The site, currently an empty lot, sits next to an existing childcare centre, as well as a series of retail and hospitality offerings. The supermarket proposed will be on the ground floor of the development and is aimed to meet a neighbourhood supermarket scale, which is approximately 25 per cent

of the size a full line supermarket. There is no indication of what the supermarket will be upon completion. The childcare centre will hold 64 children separated across different age groups. The development is aimed to expand the retail offerings within Leonay to provide better access for residents. “The development proposes to develop the site which at present is vacant, unkempt and not only detracting from the existing streetscape character along Leonay Parade but also represents an undercapitalising of valuable commercial zoned land parcel,” documents attached to the DA state. “As such, at the completion of the project, the development will expand commercial opportunities...” The development is expected to cost $15,744,935, if approved.

he local rugby league community is mourning the death of legendary administrator Warren Smith, who passed away over the holidays. Smith died aged 86 in late December. “His guidance, passion for rugby league, and unwavering commitment to the club has paved the way for future generations,” his beloved club said in a statement. After 38 years serving St Marys in various administration roles, most notably as President for 35 years, Smith retired in 2024. He was appointed Secretary of the St Marys Junior Rugby League Committee in 1985, at a time when the club fielded just 14 teams and had no sponsors. Through his dedication and vision, the junior league expanded significantly, and by the time he retired from the Board of Directors the club was fielding 56 teams in the Penrith and District Competition and had secured premierships in the higher-tier NSW Rugby League Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions. Off the field, he spear-

Warren Smith passed away in December.

headed major developments that transformed the club’s footprint and its future, including St Marys Leagues Stadium, the Holiday Inn Sydney St Marys, and more recently the Western Foyer and Saints Event Centre development. Smith’s outstanding service was recognised with Life Membership in 1999, followed by a distinguished list of honours, including

the Australian Sports Medal, Lindsay Sports Volunteer of the Year, NSW Rugby League Volunteer of the Year, Sports NSW Distinguished Long Service Award, Leagues Clubs Australia Jack Martin Award, and Life Membership of Leagues Clubs Australia. His most prestigious recognition came in 2017, when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

YO U ’ R E I N V I T E D

Kingfisher Grove Open Day Thursday 12th February | 11am-2pm | 25 Sparrowhawk Circuit, Jordan Springs • Tour the new apartments and explore a variety of floorplans • Attend a presentation to find out more about retirement living • Visit the clubhouse with wellbeing-focused amenities • Learn more about a maintenance free lifestyle

Scan here to find out more and RSVP today! Call 1800 550 550 or visit kingfishergrove.com.au

Information about the services and facilities provided in the village is correct at the time of printing but may change. Photographs are for illustrative purposes. Some images may depict items not provided by Keyton within the units such as furniture and other decorative items. Published by Keyton Realty (NSW) Pty Ltd ABN 27 138 535 823

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Work continues on Mulgoa Road EMILY CHATE

ork has now begun on Stage 2 of the Mulgoa Road upgrades, which will see improved access in and out of Glenmore Park. Work on the 850-metre stretch of Mulgoa Road between Jeanette Street and Glenmore Parkway has begun as Stage 1 of the upgrades moves into its final stages. The upgrades, known as Mulgoa Road Stage 2, will now begin after the contract with Transport for NSW Mulgoa Road Alliance delivery partners Seymour Whyte and Turnbull Engineering was officially signed. Building on Stage 1, which sees upgrades between Jeanette Street and Blaikie Road, this new section will deliver better access in and out of Glenmore Park and the southern sections of Mulgoa Road. Key to the Stage 2 upgrade will be replacing the current roundabout at Glenmore Parkway and Mulgoa Road with traffic lights. There will also be up to three additional lanes on the approaching roads and dedicated turning lanes at the intersection. A shared path and dedicated bus lanes will also be included in the upgrade. Stage 1 upgrades are expected to finish at the end of 2026, while Stage 2 is looking at a

Construction is underway. Photo: Melinda Jane.

2029 completion date. The Stage 1 upgrades are seeing Mulgoa Road widened between Jeanette Street and Blaikie Road into three lanes in each direction as well as intersection upgrades and better access in and out of the Penrith Homemaker Centre. On top of adding an additional lane in each direction, the Stage 1 upgrades includes

adding an 800m shared path that is three and a half metres wide, three bus shelters, upgrading the five intersections within the road and adding in a 333-metre-long noise wall that is four-and-a-half metres high. For more information, visit www.transport. nsw.gov.au/projects/cu r rent-projects/ mulgoa-road-upgrade-between-glenmoreparkway-and-jeanette-street.

Stafford Street home invasion

Two men remain on the run following a home invasion this week.

Two people were injured during an armed home invasion in Kingswood earlier this week. At about 5.10am on Monday, January 12, emergency services were called to a home on Stafford Street in Kingswood following reports of a home invasion. Officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command arrived at the scene and were told two masked men had broken into the home before threatening the residents with a firearm and assaulting them with a chair. Following the assault the two men left the scene on foot. The residents suffered minor injuries. “Both residents – a 53-year-old woman and a 60-year-old man – were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor head injuries but did not require any further treatment,” a NSW Police spokesperson said. Police established a crime scene and Nepean detectives have commenced an investigation into the incident. Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

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(02) 4587 5999

LOCAL NEWS

We will never forget

On the eve of Granville Train Disaster’s 49th anniversary, we look back on the rail BRUCE TURNER

very January, the nation reflects on the horrors of the Granville Train Disaster in 1977. Bruce Turner looks back at a tragedy that still impacts us today, and how it affected Penrith... Historically, Granville was a key point along the railway line as it extended west towards Penrith and into the Blue Mountains. The Granville railway station opened on July 2 1860 as Parramatta Junction, and is close to the original terminus of the first railway line in NSW, which was completed in 1855. It was relocated to its present location and renamed Granville in September 1880. On January 18 1977 at 8.10 am, an express commuter train from the Blue Mountains heading into Sydney reached Granville and left the rails hitting one of the steeland-concrete pillars supporting the bridge carrying Bold Street over the railway cutting near Granville railway station. The derailment brought down the bridge stanchion structure onto the train’s third and fourth carriages. It soon became clear that this was a major disaster, with the full extent

Members of the Nepean Rescue Squad, who had a huge involvement in the disaster.

to be revealed later. During the crash, the first carriage broke free from the rest and struck a severed mast beside the track, killing eight passengers. The rear half of the

third carriage, and forward half of the fourth carriage, were crushed by about 570 tonnes of the bridge’s materials. Half of the passengers in the third and fourth carriages were

killed instantly, while other passengers were injured and trapped in the train for hours. The Granville disaster proved to be Australia's deadliest train crash

Chris Smith Across Australia 9am - 12 Noon 16

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

and resulted in the greatest loss of life in a confined area post-war. There were 83 deaths (84 including an unborn child) and 213 injuries, 83 of which were serious. The last body was not removed until 31 hours after the accident. Rescuers performed extraordinary feats of bravery to stay with some of the injured in some areas of the wrecked carriages considered extremely dangerous. It was one of the first serious incidents that called on the services of the newly formed Nepean Rescue Squad (NRS). The Nepean Rescue Squad (NRS) was formed in 1975. It later changed its name to the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) and is now part of the NSW State Emergency Service. NRS members received awards for their efforts at Granville, including the Queen’s Gallantry Medal, and the Granville Medal. Senior leaders of the NRS/VRA Gerard and John Buchtmann were included on Penrith City Wall of Achievement in 2008. At that time, the squad had completed 6,941 jobs including the Glenbrook train accident in 1976, the Granville train accident in 1977, and the Thredbo Landslide in 1997. A government inquiry exonerated

LOCAL NEWS

darkest January day tragedy that shocked a city, and left us with stories of heartbreak for years to come to catch a train at 7.40am. (My driver and I) were approaching the Harbour Bridge when a news flash came through that there had been a very serious rail crash at Granville involving the 6.09 am from Mt Victoria. I soon worked out that this was the train Mark was on.”

“The Granville disaster proved to be Australia’s deadliest train crash”

Ross Hutchison lost his sister in the tragedy.

the train’s driver and fireman, finding the accident was caused by poorly maintained tracks. The inquiry found the primary cause of the crash was the poor fastening of the track on the bend – a consequence of inadequate maintenance.

The Granville tragedy was indiscriminate, as reflected in the following few stories. Ron Mulock was the State member for Penrith and a government minister. The Granville train accident had personal significance for

him and his family. He recalled: “On January 18 1977 I set off for our first Cabinet meeting of the year. … Our eldest son Mark was on his way that morning to the University of NSW where he had enrolled in Arts/Law. I dropped him at Penrith Station

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Mark was found sitting on a bank with a cut leg and in shock but otherwise alright; 13 passengers in his carriage had been killed. Mark stayed on to assist other victims and eventually went to hospital; he later received a bravery award in recognition of his contribution to the rescue effort. Another of the local families impacted was the Hutchison family. Cheryl Anne Hutchison was only

21 years of age when she lost her life. She was the sister of an icon of the Nepean Valley, Ross Hutchison OAM; he was Penrith’s Citizen of the Year in 2017 for his work in television, theatre, film, cabaret and radio. Ross had to identify his sister’s corpse, and the only way he could do so was mainly through her rings because her body had been crushed beyond recognition. One of the survivors of the crash was Nerelle Dean, who was three months pregnant with her daughter Amy at the time. She attended the 2017 Premier’s Apology with her younger daughter Emma Husar, who was then the Federal MP for the seat of Lindsay. The Nepean Family History Society recorded details of several Emu Plains locals who were directly impacted by the tragedy. Tragically, Brian Gordon from Emu Plains, who was a friend of Nepean Rescue Squad members, died a few days after the accident and was buried in the Penrith General Cemetery. Four people from the crash were buried in Emu Plains General Cemetery: Stephen Black, Amir Simaan and Josephine and David Pearson.

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LOCAL NEWS

Make mind, body and soul your priority in 2026 ALLY HALL

e all make promises to ourselves when a new year ticks over. This year I’m going to be consistent at the gym! This year I’m going to read 100 books! This year I’m going to run a marathon! It’s great to have goals to strive towards, but I want to simplify 2026 for you. This year, I hope to see more locals focus on enhancing their mind, body and soul – that is where we all live after all, so we need to make those three pillars sturdy! Let’s start with physical and mental wellbeing… I recently embarked on a 5.15am pre-workday trip to Unwind. Studios – a wellness and recovery studio off High Street offering workout classes, a sauna, ice baths, remedy sleeves and connection. I booked the ‘Hot Abs + Glutes’ class followed by the ‘Fire and Ice Contrast Therapy’. In the infrared hot yoga room – dubbed the Breathing Room – I undertook the 45-minute class to work my core and burn my glutes with the leadership of Tyson Burnett – a person who I’m almost 100 per cent convinced was a teddy bear in a past life. With kind guidance from Tyson, the class went quickly and I felt accomplished and refreshed afterwards despite the sweat peppering my skin. Next on my agenda was ‘Fire and Ice’ – a stint in the sauna followed by a dip in the ice bath, on repeat. This contrast therapy is known to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, enhance mood and mental clarity, flush toxins, and boost muscle recovery by improving circulation. For beginners like me, this is all about mind over matter! You need to be willing to get uncomfortable to reap the benefits of this therapy. I suppose that’s the same as any therapy. Speaking with Matt Gamble, one of four owners at Unwind. Studios, he said he struggled with contrast therapy when he first started too, but it’s well worth the initial challenge. “We have a father and son that come in to do ‘Fire and Ice’,” Matt said. “The son is about 14-years-old and has ADHD, so at school he doesn’t really know how to regulate his emotions, especially when he’s overwhelmed. This father has been bringing his son in to do the ice bath to learn how to breathe in that scenario. “Now when his son goes to school and experiences an episode, he knows how to regulate his emotions, and he remembers what he does in the ice bath.” That’s just one example of how locals benefit from the services at Unwind. “The physical recovery benefits at Unwind. are massive, and the mental benefits are just as important. We built Unwind. to give people a chance to put everything down,” Matt explained. “People come in here, and when they leave, they feel so much lighter and you can see that their shoulders have dropped. They’ve connected, they’ve reset, their bodies have gone through an experience.” “We say this is the place you never knew you needed.” Unwind. Studios now offer memberships. Find out more online at www.unwindstudios. com.au. Now, on matters of the soul… Volunteering is a difficult task to find time

for, but if you contribute what you can, when you can, you’d be surprised at the positivity you bring to the world. I had the pleasure of shadowing Cancer Council volunteer Alex Forster as she made her way around the Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre to get an idea of what the experience is like.

“I’m a cancer survivor; it’s been 28 years this year,” said the chirpy volunteer after we had a lengthy conversation about our dogs. “I connected with the Cancer Council when I had my diagnosis; then, when I retired from full-time work, I was able to put more time back into volunteering with Cancer Council. “I do this because I want

Peter MacNamara and Alex Forster. Photo: Melinda Jane.

to give back to the community that looked after me. I like to be with people and care for people, and I also agree with the mission of the Cancer Council.” One of the stops on the tour of the Centre was a message board with ‘thank you’ notes from patients to volunteers. “It touches my heart because this is not why we do it; we do it because we’ve been there ourselves and because we care,” Alex said as her throat thickened. “I’m close to tears now, but making a difference to someone’s day is so important. When we talk to the visitors or the patients, we don’t know if they’ve had any human contact that day and being able to provide that connection is rewarding.” After our chat at the message board, Alex and I made our way to the Day Ward where patients were receiving treatment. Alex had chocolates and lollies at the ready. In the ward, I spoke to patient Peter MacNamara about the book he was reading while he snacked on a Freddo Frog from Alex. “The funniest book I’ve had in ages – it’s about Greek Mythology. I wasn’t interested in it before this book, but I’m halfway through and I’ve learnt so much,” Peter said. He claimed to have found a couple of mistakes in the book and said everyone makes mistakes – even newspapers! “You can’t go through the pages of a news-

Ally Hall and Alex. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Ally Hall and Matt Gamble in the Breathing Room. Photo: Melinda Jane.

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

paper without finding a mistake,” Peter said. “Well, I’d like to think you could,” I responded. “I bet you can’t,” Peter replied. “I challenge you to find a mistake in the next edition of the Weekender,” I said, proud. “I’ll write you back,” Peter laughed. Looking back, I realise that for those few moments we spoke, Peter’s mind wasn’t on the needles in his arm, it was on his book and our conversation. Although we couldn’t spend much time together, those few minutes made a difference. And if that’s all the time you can spare, I’d say it’s worth it. You can find out more about volunteering with the Cancer Council online at www. cancercouncil.com.au/get-involved/volunteer-with-us.

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LOCAL NEWS

What happens when... In the first instalment of this special series, we look at fitness crazes and gym fads MADELINE DANTIER

itness crazes come and go – think things like CrossFit, Zumba, and F45. But what happens to the hype, the gyms and their owners once the fad is over? To find out, The Western Weekender spoke to Julie Fing, a past owner of F45 St Marys about owning an F45 gym, and what it was like at the peak of the movement. "It was absolutely incredible," Fing recalled. "Our biggest issue was trying to fit everyone in. The community vibe was like nothing else." Opening in 2016 on the corner of Queen Street and the Great Western Highway, F45 St Marys became an outstanding part of the community, morphing into more than just a gym. "Some of our members even met their life partners there, so we went to lots of weddings and engagement parties," Fing said.

Hustled Pilates owners Julie and Chloe. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Fit4All has stood the test of time. Photo: Melinda Jane.

From Saturday DJs, travel giveaways and red carpet events, the excitement surrounding F45 and the gym itself was palpable, spreading through the local community at rapid speed. However, like most business owners, Fing was hit hard by the COVID pandemic, which ultimately resulted in the closure of the branch in 2024. Lockdowns, restrictions and spacing rules made it impossible for the staff at F45

Fing was ready to take the next step and bring something new to the community. Opening in 2024, Hustled Pilates has seen incredible success, branching out of regular classes to include a clothing line, Puppy Yoga sessions, and free community Pilates classes. "We now have two studios and both are growing really quick. We are actually hoping to open our third in early 2026," Fing shared.

St Marys to effectively run the business. "We could only have at first 10 people per class, which, you can't run a studio with 250 members but then only have 10 people per class, " Fing recalled. Thinking towards the future, in the final months of F45 St Marys, Fing began a new venture, Hustled Pilates. While opening a new business in the midst of closing an existing one was challenging,

While some F45 studios remain, the glory days are long gone – and several other local studios have also closed. Milton Karavas, who owns Fit4All alongside his wife Effie, feels that niche business models and aesthetic marketing are not sustainable in an industry like health and fitness. "When a person feels like they haven't achieved what was advertised or marketed

to them, it's quite deflating and disappointing," he said. Open in Penrith for over 20 years, Fit4All is a longstanding community pillar, with some holding their memberships for over 15 years. Battling through economic crises, global pandemics and quickly advancing technology, Fit4All has consistently retained its client base, according to Karavas, through being connected to the community and focusing on building something that caters to all demographics. "We don't try and promote bells and whistles and all the stuff people don't need, just what they actually need and I think when they find that, that's why they don't leave," said Karavas, attributing Fit4All's longstanding success to his dedication to fostering a sense of community and reliability. Fads will always cycle through the fitness world, but what keeps the gyms alive is the members who walk through the doors each day.

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Sprinkle some art and culture into kids’ lives ALLY HALL

Make the most of the remaining school holidays and book an art workshop at Penrith Regional Gallery, a drama or dance workshop at The Joan’s Q Theatre, or a music workshop at The Joan’s Penrith Conservatorium of Music. There are workshops on offer for children aged 18 months old to 16-years-old.

break from school doesn’t have to mean a break from learning. The Joan and Penrith Regional Gallery are keeping kids entertained until the first school bell rings in 2026. “It’s certainly a busy time across both spaces at The Joan and at the Gallery,” explained Penrith Regional Gallery Director Toby Chapman. “A lot of parents are looking for exciting activities for their children, and for themselves to reach the finish line before school goes back. “It’s a beautiful time of year out here in Penrith with so much going on. It’s wonderful to be able to add some arts and culture to young people’s lives.” Penrith’s school holiday programs also keep local children engaged in learning before re-entering their normal routine. “After a massive year of learning, it’s natural to have a bit of a pause and a break. Then, early in the new year, it’s important to creatively and

Carnival and Creatures: Play & Perform Workshop for Ages 9 to 12.

critically engage young people in music, dance, drama, and the arts,” Chapman stated. “When we're developing workshops, we're not just creating something that is fun, but also something that is really stimulating and connected to syllabus to assist young people in returning to patterns of learning. We hope to stimulate curiosity and creativity to start the year off right."

Carnival and Creatures: Play & Perform Workshop is happening at The Joan.

Organisers also create workshops with the mindset that they are fostering the next generation of artists. “While planning our workshops, one of the things we do is connect activities to the exhibition at the Gallery or at The Joan,” Chapman began. “A perfect example of that is how we’ve connected a workshop to our exhibition, ‘The Pool Show’. We

have a giant paddling pool painting workshop for three to five-year-olds. “We pride ourselves on being the first interaction with the arts for a lot of young families; they bring their children here and commence a lifelong engagement with the arts. “From there, who knows where it could go. With any luck, I'm sure there will be some big stars and big names coming out of Penrith in the next five to 10 years.”

Local kids take to the stage!

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Trio’s vow to look after Penrith’s three youngest Councillors Garion Thain, Reece Nuttall and Libby Austin EMILY CHATE

he future of the Labor and Liberal Parties in Penrith looks to be in safe hands with the next generation of local politicians ready to make a real difference. Garion Thain, Reece Nuttall and Libby Austin are all in their first term as Penrith City Councillors, but hit the ground running from their very first meeting. Labor’s Thain was elected as a Councillor in September of 2024 and just one year later he was promoted into the role of Deputy Mayor. “I’m very fortunate to be in the position I am and just grateful to be able to serve Penrith this way,” Thain reflected. “The most important role of a Councillor is to make representations on behalf of residents; I’ve made hundreds of those since becoming a Councillor and continue to make those every week. “As a Councillor and Deputy Mayor though, I also really enjoy playing an active role in Council’s strategic work, the kind of work that has impacts for years to come. In 2026 I want to continue this strate-

Reece Nuttall and Garion Thain. Photo: Emily Chate.

gic work in the vein of the St Marys Town Centre Masterplan, by taking the next steps in strategic planning for Werrington and Kingswood. “I’m looking forward to making progress on Werrington and Kingswood this year. I’m also looking

forward to the new Indoor MultiSports facility progressing further, and for work to begin on the new St Marys Central Park. That’ll be great for residents and go hand-inhand with the evolving town centre there.”

Also from Labor is NSW’s youngest Councillor, Libby Austin who was elected when she was just 19-yearsold but took quickly to the opportunity. “[This year I’ll be] continuing the work every day as a Councillor and

hopefully working even harder to get to know everyone I can in our community. As Penrith’s youngest Councillor there has been a whole lot of learning in 2025, I hope that continues in 2026 and that the politics of council stays Penrith first,” she said. Similarly to Thain and Austin, Liberal’s Nuttall was elected to Penrith Council in September 2024 at just 22-years-old, his age not holding him back from making an impact in the community. “Younger voices on Penrith City Council are vital,” he said. “We bring a lived understanding of the challenges facing the next generation, from housing affordability to employment and cultural life. “Being one of the younger Councillors allows me to advocate for policies that aren’t just about today, but about building a future that’s accessible, inclusive and vibrant. It also sends a message to young people: your voice matters, and you belong at the table.” 2026 is already shaping up to be a massive year in Penrith as the Western Sydney International Airport is set to see the first planes take off, the

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Penrith

Welcome to 2026. On behalf of Penrith City Council, I wish you all a happy new year and hope that everyone had a safe and relaxing festive period. This is another big year for Penrith, one of continued progress and opportunity for our community. I’m especially excited about the opening of Western Sydney International Airport later this year. As the closest City to the Aerotropolis, this is a game-changer for Penrith, which will be connected to the rest of the country and the world like never before. With more people choosing to live in our incredible City, we recognise the challenge of well-managed growth. Council remains committed to harnessing new social, economic, tourism and recreation opportunities, and delivering diverse housing and jobs. We continue to call on other levels of government to invest in the infrastructure necessary to support growth in and around our City, including access to equitable public transport. Our efforts also extend to advocating for a long-term vision and master plan for Penrith Lakes, with permanent access to Penrith Beach. We’re also building on the success

of Penrith’s Our River Master Plan and developing a long-term framework for planning the next chapter of the Nepean River precinct. Council’s vision for St Marys will start to come to life in 2026 with works to commence on the central park. We’re taking this proactive approach and planning for Kingswood and Werrington, to meet the community’s evolving needs and aspirations. We have several recreational projects happening. The design of the indoor multi-sports arena at Claremont Meadows – next to Gipps Street Recreation Precinct – is underway. Council will again host free events to showcase our vibrant City, further strengthen connection, and nurture our thriving community. In an exciting first, the 25th Biennale of Sydney will be in Penrith from March. This prestigious art event will put our City on the world stage, as Penrith Regional Gallery exhibits contemporary artworks by Australian and international artists. I look forward to providing updates and I’m thrilled to see where 2026 takes our wonderful City.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

LOCAL NEWS

Penrith now and later reflect on an eventful 2025, and look ahead to what is set to be an historic 2026 redevelopment of Penrith Stadium will reach its end, and Stage 2 of the Nepean Hospital upgrade will see completion. “2026 is a chance to deliver on real aspirations,” Nuttall said. “We’ve developed Penrith’s 24-hour economy strategy, and I’m excited to see it come to life. It’s about more than nightlife – it’s about making Penrith a thriving place where businesses grow, where there’s something for everyone after hours, and where young people see a future for themselves. “I want to make sure no one is priced out of the community they grew up in, and that everyone, regardless of age or background, has a real shot at opportunity and success here.” Thain shared this sentiment saying having a wide range of Councillors to represent everyone in the community is vital. “Penrith is a demographically young city, we have an average age three years lower than the NSW average, I believe. Lots of families and younger people are living here and having a go,” Thain said. “There’s 15 Councillors representing over 200,000 people here, so I

Reece Nuttall. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Libby Austin is NSW’s youngest Councillor. Photo: Mitchell Hearne.

Garion Thain. Photo: Ally Hall.

think it’s important that multiple perspectives contribute to Council. “We’re here to represent all residents and we each have our perspectives to share.” Austin has committed to keep working to make local politics

a place for young people in the community. “Big things are coming, it’s been a big year for Council and a great year for young voices,” she explained. “As I said in my opening speech, I am not going to stop until the term

‘young’ in this space isn’t used as an insult but as an asset. Young people have so much to offer and I look forward to working for young people, so what we need is a priority not just now but into the future.” Thain, a resident of St Marys, said

meeting with local young people was a highlight in 2025 for him. “Councillor Austin and I recently had a catch-up with some students, many of whom were from my neighbourhood in North St Marys. We heard afterwards how much it meant to several of them to hear the story of NSW’s youngest Councillor, or how anyone from anywhere can go on to have a leadership role,” he said. “The biggest takeaway though, for me at least, was how many questions we received were about civics, that sort of thing. “Young people do care about their communities and about their future, but for many, knowing where to start and how the levels of Government work is the first biggest hurdle.” For Nuttall, he’s looking forward to continuing to make an impact for people in Penrith this year. “2026 is about building on momentum. It’s a time to lead, not just represent,” Nuttall said. “I’m focused on delivering a city that works for all – where businesses are supported, young people are empowered, and long-term planning drives decisions.”

THE new home for job listingS in penrith www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Δ Retro cafe: Penrith's cafe scene is being transformed back to the 1980s with a retro venue opening in the CBD later this month. High On The 80s offers a fun, nostalgic dining experience transporting customers back to a decade of colour, iconic music and pop culture flair. The eatery is located at 8/92-112 Henry Street, Penrith.

Δ A Greek tragedy: Greek restaurant Avli has announced its permanent closure. The Cranebrook-based eatery – which first launched in 2017 – re-opened last year after a two-year hiatus. While it will continue running its food truck and catering, the restaurant has now been shuttered.

Δ Wackadoo! Australia’s favourite blue heeler has made snack time even more fun. Rolling out in store this month, Infuzions Poppeas are the newest addition to the Woolworths lunchbox aisle – a light, veggie-packed snack made with over 50 per cent yellow split peas, designed for little hands and boundless energy. “With Infuzions Poppeas, we wanted to bring the joy of play back into snack time by partnering with ‘Bluey’,” said Hayley Bonaccorso, Marketing Manager at Majans. “Parents are always looking for snacks that make lunchtime easier, healthier and a little more fun – Poppeas do just that, in true ‘Bluey’ style.”. Poppeas come in two delicious flavours – Cheesy Peasy and Backyard BBQ – both with the signature Infuzions crunch and a melt-in-the-mouth texture kids love. Each multipack also includes a playful on-pack ‘Bluey’ game, turning snack time into screen-free fun.

Δ Penrith pool party: Penrith’s Australia Day celebrations will focus on a pool party at Ripples centres in Penrith and St Marys. Both leisure centres will be open from 8am until 6pm on Monday, January 26 for the celebrations. The events feature a free, fun-filled program, with interactive workshops, circus performances and giveaways. By beating the summer heat at Ripples, attendees can purchase food from the Kiosk, enjoy a poolside picnic, or indulge in a classic Aussie sausage sizzle.

Δ Wingstop opens: After a delayed opening following the Bondi terror attacks, Wingstop finally commenced operations in Penrith over the summer. It is serving its delicious food on High Street, near Triangle Park.

Δ Haven, known for its beautifully crafted home fragrances, invites you to celebrate the season with its new Spring/Summer 2025 Edit. Featuring a selection of candles, reed diffusers, and room sprays, the range captures the essence of warmer days with scents that are light, uplifting, and effortlessly refreshing. Each fragrance is thoughtfully designed to transform your space into a serene summer retreat filled with delightful elegance.

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

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TURNING BACK TIME This photograph shows the old Panthers Leagues Club on Station Street in Penrith. The picture is from the 1960s. This site is now home to the Nepean Village shopping centre, with Panthers moving to its Mulgoa Road site in the 1980s. The Station Street club opened in March 1963, five years before Penrith would be admitted to the first grade rugby league competition. The site served as home of the Panthers for just over 20 years. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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The Habit: Your daily financial check-in Every morning, before you dive into emails or meetings, spend five minutes reviewing yesterday’s financial activity. No complex spreadsheets, no hour-long reconciliations – just a quick pulse check. What to do in those five minutes Minutes 1-2: Check your bank balance Log into

your business bank account and note your current balance. You’ll quickly spot unusual transactions, failed payments, or cash flow issues before they become emergencies. Minutes 3-4: Snap and file receipts Got receipts from yesterday? Take photos and upload them to your accounting software or Dext. Don’t wait until month’s end when you’ve forgotten what that charge was for. Minute 5: Review incoming and outgoing Glance at what money came in and what went out. Are customers paying on time? Did that supplier payment go through? Why this works Daily awareness means you catch problems early

BIANCA RANNASTE Treasurer Penrith Chamber Board Member

– not three months later. You’ll know exactly where you stand before making purchasing decisions. No more “I thought we had more in the bank” moments. Making it stick Link this habit to something you already do daily. Morning coffee? While it brews, check your finances. Modern accounting software like Xero or MYOB makes this incredibly easy with mobile apps.

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

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Want to increase CASH FLOW? Need more WORK?

Any footage or witnesses to the incident would be greatly appreciated and are asked to contact either myself at niss.80@hotmail.com or Penrith Police Station.

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WW57842

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

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WW57681

THE RESOLUTION & THE SOLUTION

RESOLUTION: I need to stop snoring and sleep better

CPAP Direct are Australia’s largest sleep apnea specialists, offering expert support, free consultations and the latest tech in CPAP machines, masks and accessories. With experienced clinicians, personalised guidance and affordable payment options, they make having a sleep study or using CPAP therapy easy. Visit CPAP Direct at 55 York St Penrith today to improve your sleep quality!

4706 0489 | cpap.com.au | Shop 4/55 York Road, Jamisontown

TOP TIP: Take the online sleep assessment to find out if you might have sleep apnea at cpap.com.au WW57680

RESOLUTION: I want to update my will

WW57285

Looking for personalised legal support? Complete Legal & Conveyancing focuses on understanding you—not just your case. With extensive experience in civil litigation, business law, and more, we provide tailored solutions that fit your unique needs. Our team genuinely listens to your concerns, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. When you choose us, you’re choosing a legal team that’s invested in your success, delivering not just results, but peace of mind.

4704 9991 | completelaw.com.au | 19B Lawson St, Penrith

TOP TIP: Not well versed in legal jargon? At Complete Legal and Conveyancing, we translate it for you into clear terms so you understand exactly what’s going on at every stage of the process.

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

WW57285

THE RESOLUTION & THE SOLUTION Make time for yoga and feel the benefits right from the start. Yoga helps with physical fitness for all bodies and all ages. And yoga has more. Leave the yoga room feeling quiet and calm. Clear the mind while energising the physical body. Our experienced, qualified Iyengar yoga teachers will take you through a structured process, beginning with simple poses and breathing techniques. Most injuries and chronic conditions can be managed in class.

WW57693

RESOLUTION: I want to make time for me in 2026

0424 337 223 | penrithyogastudio.com.au | Suite 3C, 438 High Street, Penrith

TOP TIP: Book early for a Beginners Course. 8 Week courses start February 6 to 12. There is a course starting on every day of the week. Don’t miss out on your spot.

WW57693

RESOLUTION: I want to switch to better IT support for my business

A reliable IT partner is essential for business success. Nortec IT delivers secure, tailored managed services and cybersecurity support to keep your systems running smoothly and protected. From 24/7 monitoring to cloud solutions and rapid helpdesk support, our experts handle your technology so you can focus on growth and peace of mind.

02 9894 9514 | nortec.com.au | Unit 44, 5 Anella Avenue, Castle Hill

TOP TIP: Don’t wait until tech issues slow you down - proactive IT support and cybersecurity from the start keeps your business secure, efficient, and focused on growth.

WW57618

RESOLUTION: I want to create my dream home

02 4711 5137 | diamondbuildinggroup.com.au | 1/17 Smith St, Emu Plains

WW57306

Based in Emu Plains, Diamond Building has completed hundreds of renovations, extensions, and second-storey additions. We handle every stage - from design and planning to construction - turning your vision into stylish, functional spaces that add real value to your home.

TOP TIP: Be clear about your goals - a clear vision saves time and avoids stress. WW57306

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

THE RESOLUTION & THE SOLUTION RESOLUTION: I need a bigger home with extra rooms but don’t want to move Addition - Alfresco - Carport - Deck Extention - Patio - Pergola - Room

1300 659 276 | hicraft.com.au | 236-238 Great Western Highway, Emu Plains

WW57698

Hi-Craft Home Improvements are experts in building and transforming living spaces. We are trusted experts in the industry and proud to be locally owned and operated, with an expansive showroom highlighting many structures including home additions. We have worked with thousands of homes and would love to help design a new space/s that brings your vision to life. The addition would be integrated creating a continuous flow from the existing home. Contact us for your FREE in-home design consultation

TOP TIP: Add an extension to your existing home – this will save you time, money and the hassle of relocating all while adding value to your biggest asset.

WW57698

RESOLUTION: I want to keep my house cool during Summer

02 4721 1311 | genesisairconditioning.com.au | Unit 9/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown

WW57679

Ready to stay cool and comfortable all summer long? At Genesis Air Conditioning, we make your home the ultimate comfort zone, with ducted, split and multi-room systems that quietly chill every corner. Whether you want a whole-house solution or a cool haven for a single room, our expert team handles installation, maintenance and repairs with care, so you can just relax.

TOP TIP: For the best summer comfort, make sure your air con is installed in the right location. Smart placement can improve airflow and reduce energy costs.

WW57679

RESOLUTION: I want to build my home gym

WW57348

Are you building your ultimate home gym, or ready to start your 2026 fitness journey right? NordicTrack specializes in premium home equipment, including state of the art treadmills, bikes, rowers, and ellipticals, catering to all fitness levels. Our machines feature smart auto-adjusting iFit technology, taking your immersive workout from your home to stunning global locations. Invest in your best self: Incredible machines, so you can be one too.

1800 261 681 | ifit.com | Unit 6/12 Boden Rd, Seven Hills

TOP TIP: If work has you sitting all day, did you know, Rowing strengthens your posterior chain (back, glutes, hamstrings), which helps prevent injuries from sitting all day.

WW57348

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

THE RESOLUTION & THE SOLUTION RESOLUTION: I want my home and workplace to shine

0424 509 464 | maidtoshinecleaning.com.au | maidtoshinecleaning@outlook.com.au

WW57722

Experience a pristine clean every time with Maid To Shine! Our dedicated team uses only top-quality products and meticulous attention to detail to ensure your home sparkles. We’re committed to providing exceptional service tailored to your needs, with a satisfaction guarantee that leaves your space looking its best. Available for residential or commercial spaces- get in touch today to book your shine!

TOP TIP: Worried you don’t have the right products for the job you need? Maid To Shine provides all products and equipment, so you can just sit back and relax while we take care of your property.

WW57722

RESOLUTION: I want to learn to bowl

02 4721 2515 | penrithbowling.com.au | Cnr Woodriff and Derby Street, Penrith

WW57617

At Penrith Bowling Club, located in the heart of Penrith, we offer a warm, friendly environment to meet others and learn to bowl. We have FREE bowling lessons every Saturday from 9am to 11am. No booking or equipment required, just come along! Experience an outdoor, social activity with like minded people.

TOP TIP: Lawn Bowls is a fun event that can be enjoyed by people of all ages! WW57617

RESOLUTION: I want my 2026 retirement sorted (and the years after too)

9629 1866 | creowealth.com.au | 3/331 High Street, Penrith

TOP TIP: You don’t have to be retired to plan your retirement. Start now and let your future self thank you. 34

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

WW57603

Thinking about retiring in 2026 or soon after? At Creo Wealth, we make planning for life after work simple and stress-free. We’ll help you understand what retirement could look like, how long your money needs to last, and the steps to get you there with confidence. You don’t need to be wealthy to start—just ready to take the first step toward a comfortable, enjoyable retirement that feels right for you.

WW57603

Penrith Ballroom Dance welcomes dancers of all ages—from beginners to seasoned performers— with expert tuition in ballroom styles. Choose from engaging group classes or personalized private lessons and enjoy our monthly social practice nights. We also offer tailored wedding dance packages to make your special day unforgettable. So “Walk In and Dance Out” at Penrith Ballroom Dance in 2026.

0402 069 576 | penrithballroomdance.com.au | Unit 7, 42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown

WW57816

RESOLUTION: I want to learn to dance

TOP TIP: Remember the 3 Ps: Practice, Perseverance and Patience, then Dance Like No One Is Watching!

WW57816

RESOLUTION: I want to buy a home

WW57815

A home is more than a purchase — it’s a milestone. If buying or selling property is your New Year’s resolution, Rise Conveyancing offers a premium, stress-free service you can trust. With over 25 years’ experience, Kristen Salijevic provides expert guidance from contract to settlement, ensuring your transaction is handled smoothly, on time, and at a fixed cost.

0447 484 907 | riseconveyancing.com.au | 1/331 High Street, Penrith

TOP TIP: Engage a conveyancer early - expert guidance from the start helps avoid

costly mistakes and keeps your property transaction smooth, stress-free and on track.

WW57815

RESOLUTION: I want to enjoy life without back pain

Has back pain been stopping you from doing the things you want? With 23 years of experience, Penrith Exercise Physiology helps locals manage and resolve recurring back pain through evidence-based, personalised exercise treatment programs. We identify the root cause, not just your symptoms, and create a long-term plan that actually solves the problem, so you can move and feel your best again in 2026. 57814

www.penrithexercisephysiology.com.au | 111 Andrews Rd, Cranebrook

TOP TIP: By addressing the root cause instead of just the symptoms, you can prevent your back pain from returning. Mention Weekender to SAVE 10% on your first appointment.

WW57814

RESOLUTION: I want to plan for my retirement

Future Financial Services is a financial planning firm dedicated to providing personalised, easy to understand advice as our clients go through various life stages.

4704 8585 | futurefinancialservices.com.au | Shop 9/488-490 High St, Penrith

TOP TIP: If you’re struggling to stick to a budget or confused on how much you might need for retirement, give Future Financial Services a call. Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

WW57738

Providing retirement planning, superannuation advice, insurance planning and much more for over 15 years, Principal Financial Planner Alex McKenzie is the expert when it comes to preparing for life’s ups and downs.

WW57738

Pick up a copy of the paper

weekendeFrree THE GREATEST the western

Lifesttyle Home&L

Brought to you by

Friday, October

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

F CT PERFE POT ANTS PLA

7, 2022

www.westernweeken

der.com.au

PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS

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

| SEE PAGE 62 GHTEN UP YOUR HOME

Mark STEVENSON

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PARTY A

Ivan and Nathan Cleary. Photo: NRL Images.

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

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

WW57779

Blaxland

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

WORLD’S BEST RETURNS

ALLY HALL

f you thought Penrith’s recent 40-degree weather was hot, then honey, you’ve got another thing coming. The world’s greatest male revue show Manpower Australia – known internationally as Thunder from Downunder – will bring their steamy act to EVAN Theatre for girls’ night outback on February 7. The Weekender recently spoke with performer and MC Nick Dunne about the upcoming performance. “I get to put smiles on people’s faces and have a good time for a living. That’s my job description; I make people happy!” remarked the endlessly enthusiastic Dunne.

“I’m an electrician by trade and I grew up in a small town called Warwick in Queensland. I used to do bodybuilding, and to cut a long story short, I found out that Thunder from Downunder was looking for an MC. So, now I MC the show.” While he couldn’t give too much away, Dunne shared a few hints about what the upcoming show will look like. “We have a variety of group routines and a few solo routines – roughly four solo acts,” he explained. “It’s a very interactive show and the boys are in the audience quite a lot. We’re hands-on, but we’re not dirty, grimy, or greasy – it’s all very professional. “We’re not there to make anyone uncomfortable and the boys are respectful. We’re

all good at picking up the difference between a person who wants interaction and a person who doesn’t.” The group has performed annually in Penrith over the past few years, and a lot of audience members come back for more. “We’re a professional production, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” Dunne described the group’s appeal. “We’re a bunch of dudes who are good mates and like to have a good time. However, we really pride ourselves on our professionalism and ensuring our shows run well for the guest experience. “My favourite part of the show is at the end when I thank everyone for coming out and I get to see the happiness pouring out of people because of the performance

we’ve provided.” For anyone hesitant about booking a ticket, Dunne provided some reassurance. “If you’re 18 or if you’re 118, you’re welcome at our show and you’ll be treated with respect and a good time,” Dunne started. “Men are also more than welcome to come along, we don’t discriminate. We’re seeing more women bringing their husbands along, and they generally end up having a better time than anyone else! “Come and have a great night and see the best male revue show in the world.” Witness the high-energy stage production, down-to-earth charisma, and undeniable thunder power of Manpower Australia by booking a ticket online at penrith.panthers.com.au.

Stay Informed Visit our website direct to stay update to date with all recent local news Your home of local news in Penrith

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

THINGS TO DO Send the kids to their first rave at Panthers

Walkabout Reptiles Show at Penrith Library

Archery Wars comes to Panthers

Beats. Bubbles. Boogie. Repeat. My First Rave is an event for children and parents to experience an immersive family– friendly party experience like no other. Tickets include a twohour DJ set, a bubble machine and kid-safe rave-style lighting, and wristbands and a glow stick for every raver. My First Rave will be at Panthers Penrith on Friday, January 23. Book online.

Penrith City Library will host a live reptile show on Wednesday, January 21, giving local children the chance to learn about animals, their habitats and conservation. The show features snakes, lizards, frogs, turtles, and a young crocodile! It’s best suited for children aged four to 10. Book online at https:// www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au.

Get ready for an action–packed outdoor adventure as children take part in the thrilling Archery Wars experience. Using safe foam–tipped arrows, participants will team up for fast–paced challenges filled with strategy, agility and friendly competition at Panthers Penrith. The event will be held on Tuesday, January 20, and it costs $15 per child.

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

month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am. All new members welcome. Probus Club of Nepean First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am. Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866.

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.

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

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

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

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

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

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

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club Meets on the fourth Monday of the

Red Cross Penrith Meetings held the second Thursday

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

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing

Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information. Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700. Arms of Australia Inn Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

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

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

CATCH BEN LEE LIVE! ALLY HALL

4721 1444

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he Joan is one of 40 stops on Aussie music legend Ben Lee’s next tour, appropriately titled ‘Ben Lee: On Tour Always’. This follows his successful ‘Awake Is The New Sleep 20th Anniversary Tour’, which reminded fans all over the country why they fell in love with his music. With a brilliant musical career spanning three decades, Lee has gifted music lovers with timeless tunes, such as ‘Catch My Disease’ and ‘We’re All In This Together’. He’s also created chart-topping albums

including ‘Breathing Tornados’, ‘Awake Is The New Sleep’, ‘Ripe’, and ‘I’M FUN!’. But the musician is known for more than his music. His quirky personality and eccentric mannerisms contribute to his iconic status. “Being out on the road just for the sake of it is what it’s all about,” Lee stated. “Anniversaries are nice, but the road is where it happens. Night after night, sweaty, a little chaotic, unpredictable. Hand to hand combat. See you out on the road!” Catch the amazing Ben Lee on Friday, January 30 at Q Theatre from 7.30pm.

Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square. With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.

www.pancakesontherocks.com.au 45024

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

COUNTRY CORNER As regular readers would know, we farewelled the Country Corner column last year. However, a last minute change has seen the Wayne's World column not return this year, which means we're back, baby! Yee-haw!

Aldean announces new album Reigning country powerhouse Jason Aldean has announced his upcoming studio album, 'Songs About Us', alongside the release of three new surprise tracks: 'Help You Remember', 'Hard to Love You' and 'Lovin’ Me Too Long', available now. Set for release on April 24, 'Songs About Us' features

his current single, 'How Far Does A Goodbye Go', written by longtime collaborators Kurt Allison, John Edwards, Tully Kennedy and John Morgan. “It means the world when one of my songs helps someone through a hard time – or celebrates their best moments,” said Aldean. “This album is about all of that – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Every track started with a real story or feeling, and together we turned those experiences into music. In the end, I realised this album is about all of us. These are songs about us.” The new album features a whopping 20 tracks and is out in April.

Track of the week This week's Track of the Week is 'Some Times' by country music veteran and Opry member Vince Gill. The song is a brilliant retrospective about one's life, and the remarkable things we see. It's available on his '50 Years From Home' album. Stream it on all the usual services.

PENRITHNEWS.AU

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Back from the dead

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

At the movies... PREVIEW

PREVIEW

Marty Supreme

Return to Silent Hill

2 hours, 29 minutes

1 hour, 46 minutes Konami’s iconic video game franchise returns to the big screen with ‘Return to Silent Hill’. Drawn back by a mysterious letter, James Sunderland (Jeremy Irvine) ventures into the fog-shrouded town of Silent Hill in search of his lost wife. There, he confronts terrifying creatures and uncovers a chilling truth buried within the darkness. This 2026 film follows ‘Silent Hill’ (2006) and ‘Silent Hill: Revelation’ (2012). Experience ‘Return to Silent Hill’ at Hoyts Penrith for just five days only, starting next Thursday, January 22.

Set in the 1950s, ‘Marty Supreme’ tells the story of Marty Mauser (Timothee Chalamet), a charismatic but morally questionable hustler and shoe salesman with a big dream. The American sports comedy-drama film follows Marty as he tries to become the world’s greatest table tennis player. Unfortunately, that pursuit forces him to lie, cheat and steal to get what he wants. Directed by Josh Safdie, the film features a star-studded cast alongside Timothee Chalamet including Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Kevin O’Leary, Tyler Okonma, Abel Ferrara and Fran Drescher. Explore ambition, ego, and the pursuit of greatness when ‘Marty Supreme’ is released on January 22.

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See these movies at...

PENRITH

slushandtunes.com.au Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 Hamnet

Grow (PG)

The Housemaid (MA)

David

(M) 15 to 28 Jan

15 to 28 Jan

17, 18 & 21 Jan

15 to 21 Jan

The Choral

Zootopia 2

(M)

Song Sung Blue (M)

(PG)

Grand Prix of Europe (G)

16, 19 & 20 Jan

15, 19 & 20 Jan

15, 19 & 21 Jan

16 & 20 Jan

(PG)

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

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www.hoyts.com.au

Ê Well-known Sports presenter Matt White is returning to Seven to lead their sport and rugby league coverage this year. 11 years after he departed the network to work in radio and other projects, White returns to present both news and sport, and to lead the NRL coverage across bulletins nationwide each night. He will also feature on the Rugby League World Cup coverage in October and November, and will contribute to Seven’s new program ‘NRL Agenda Setters’. White starts his new gig this Sunday, January 18.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Doco special ‘One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things Season 5’ has dropped on Netflix. The film gives viewers an inside look at the years of effort and craft that went into the final instalment of the Duffer Brothers’ generation-defining series. Ê New documentary ‘Ballkids’ has dropped onto Netflix ahead of the Australian Open. The documentary, narrated by Celia Pacquola, follows the country’s best ballkids through local and national trials, as they vie for highly-coveted finals spots at the Australian Open. Ê Awesome news for fans of ‘The Pitt’, with

STREAMING NOW

THE PITT, HBO MAX

HBO Max renewing the acclaimed medical drama for a third season. Season two of the Noah Wyle series kicked off last week and it’s started with a bang!

Ê ‘Emily in Paris’ fans will be happy to learn

STREAMING NOW POLE TO POLE WITH WILL SMITH, DISNEY+

that the hit Netflix series is returning for a sixth season. Season five, which dropped in December, saw Emily spend a few episodes in Rome for business, however she returned to her home away from home in Paris midway through the series. Series creator Darren Star said: “There’s a lot of places I’d love to visit. But I think the show organically follows the storyline. The show is ‘Emily in Paris’. It’s never going to permanently leave its home base. But if I can take the audience on a journey somewhere else, I would love that … It’s fun to think about.”

Ê ‘Mayor of Kingstown’, starring Jeremy Renner and Edie Falco, has been renewed for

a fifth and final season at Paramount+. According to reports, it will return for a shorter season five, consisting of eight episodes.

Ê Oscar winner Will Smith takes audiences on the ultimate journey of discovery in a new seven-part National Geographic doco series ‘Pole to Pole with Will Smith’. Now streaming on Disney+, the series follows Will across all seven continents, taking him from the icefields of Antarctica to the jungles of the Amazon, the mountains of the Himalayas, the deserts of Africa, the islands of the Pacific and the icebergs of the Arctic. Ê New ‘NCIS’ spin-off ‘NCIS: Tony & Ziva’ has been axed already! Just a couple of months after a promo visit to Australia, Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo’s new series has been cancelled after just one season. You can catch the one and only season on Paramount+.

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

TV Guide: January 16 - 22

Sunday 18 January

Saturday 17 January

Friday 16 January

Your guide to the week’s television viewing 6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Solar System With Brian Cox 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now (PG) 1:45 Goolagong 2:55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 3:25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 3:55 Grand Designs - The Streets (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 All Creatures Great And Small 8:15 Art Detectives (M) 9:05 Hard Quiz (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show Summer (PG) 12:00 Movie: “The Secret Sauce” (PG) (’21) Stars: Tori Anderson 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Sydney Sixers v Sydney Thunder *Live* 10:30 Unfiltered: Cricket: Meg Lanning *Live* (PG) 11:00 Movie: “Wild Things” (MA15+) (’98) Stars: Kevin Bacon 1:15 Travel Oz (PG) 2:00 Home Shopping

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra Summer (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “A Missed Connection” (PG) (’24) Stars: Meggan Kaiser 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Mighty Ducks” (G) (’92) Stars: Emilio Estevez 9:35 Movie: “D2: The Mighty Ducks” (G) (’94) Stars: Emilio Estevez

8:00 Lingo (PG) 9:00 The Finish Line 10:00 10:10 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Entertainment Tonight 10:30 Dogs Behaving Animals (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 11:30 My Market Britain’s Most Expensive Houses 2:55 Going Kitchen 12:00 Farm To Fork 12:30 Family Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:25 Plat Du Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Tour 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw Deal Or No Deal 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 4:30 Letters And Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful Numbers 5:00 Motorsport: Dakar Rally (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:00 10 News Plus 6:30 Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:30 Selling Houses 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Great Australia 8:40 Love It Or List It Australia House Revival 9:30 Isle Of Wight - Jewel Of 9:40 The Graham Norton Show (PG) The South (PG)

2:30 Sydney Weekender 3:00 The Great Australian Doorstep (PG) 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Escape To The Country: Somerset 6:00 Bargain Hunt 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer

12:00 Britain’s Got 4:30 American Talent (PG) 3:00 Restoration (PG) 5:00 Dodger (PG) 4:00 Storage Wars (PG) Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) 4:30 5:30 American Pickers (PG) Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Movie: 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Road Wars 8:30 Movie: “Fast & “Nim’s Island” (PG) (’08) Stars: Abigail Breslin 8:30 Movie: Furious Presents: Hobbs & “Fifty Shades Of Grey” (M) Shaw” (M l,v) (’19) Stars: (’15) Stars: Dakota Johnson Dwayne Johnson

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 Living Black 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Africa’s Hidden Kingdoms 7:30 Movie: “Stand By Me” (M l) (’86) Stars: Wil Wheaton

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 The Dog House (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 All 4 Adventure (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Matlock: (M s)

2:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 3:00 Becker (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Movie: “How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days” (PG) (’03) Stars: Kate Hudson

1:00 Fixer Upper 2:00 Restored By The Fords 3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Derelict Rescue 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:00 House Hunters: All Stars 7:30 Barnwood Builders

3:30 Wiggle And Learn 4:00 Stan Can 4:30 Mojo Swoptops 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior 7:40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures

12:00 ABC News At Noon 1:00 ABC News Day 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 ABC News Summer 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Back Roads 8:00 ABC News Tonight 8:30 If You’re Listening 9:00 The World

3:20 Heartbreak High (PG) 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 7:20 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:50 QI (PG) 8:20 Would I Lie To You? (PG)

5:30 Everyday Gourmet 6:00 Jamie At Home 6:30 Secrets Of The Curry Kitchen 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

2:40 Mastermind 3:40 Worldwatch 5:40 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News: Summer Yarns 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 The Man With A Penis On His Arm (M l) 9:30 Sex Tape Germany

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: “Mirror Mirror” (PG) (’12) Stars: Julia Roberts 9:35 Movie: “Hansel And Gretel: Witch Hunters” (MA15+) (’13)

8:00 Home Shopping 10:30 Pointless (PG) 11:30 Tennis: Adelaide International - Day Session: Day 5 *Live* 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 7:00 Tennis: Adelaide International - Night Session: Day 5 *Live* 11:00 New Tricks (M l,s,v)

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Call The Midwife (PG) 1:30 Art Detectives (M v) 2:15 All Creatures Great And Small (PG) 3:05 Gardening Australia - My Garden Path 3:10 Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 4:00 Human 5:00 The ABC Of Ian Chappell (PG) 5:25 Dr Karl’s How Things Work 6:00 Back Roads (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Call The Midwife (PG)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Summer (PG) 12:00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special 12:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 1:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Magic Millions *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “A Knight’s Tale” (M v) (’01) Stars: Heath Ledger 10:15 Movie: “Green Zone” (M l,v) (’10) Stars: Matt Damon 12:30 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under Highlights

6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Summer (PG) 12:00 Our State On A Plate 12:30 Find My Beach House Australia 1:30 Ready Vet Go (PG) 2:00 Movie: “Practical Magic” (PG) (’98) Stars: Sandra Bullock 4:00 Taronga Who’s Who In The Zoo 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Find My Country House Australia 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Tennis: Australian Open - AO26 - Opening Ceremony *Live*

9:00 Pat Callinan’s 24/7 Adventures 10:00 My Market Kitchen 10:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:00 Airport 24/7 (PG) 12:00 Everyday Gourmet 12:30 Farm To Fork 1:00 Cook With Luke 1:30 The Yes Experiment (PG) 2:00 The Dog Academy (PG) 3:00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 4:00 All 4 Adventure 5:00 10 News 6:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 7:40 Love It Or List It Australia 8:50 Location Location Location Australia 9:50 Ambulance UK (M)

1:30 Wildlife ER (PG) 2:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Magic Night *Live* 7:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Lewis (M v) 10:30 Escape To The Country

12:00 Blow Up (PG) 11:30 Cycling: Santos 1:20 Starstruck (PG) Tour Down Under: 2:40 Dancing With The Women’s Stage 1 *Live* Stars (PG) 4:20 Make You 4:00 Desert Collectors (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Laugh Out Loud (PG) 5:20 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Movie: “The Boss Baby: Family Business” (PG) (’21) Stars: Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Rock” (M s,v) (’96) Stars: Sean Alec Baldwin 7:30 Movie: “Titanic” (M n,s,v) (’97) Connery

3:00 Mowanjum 4:50 The Mountain Of Sgaana 5:00 Unsettled (PG) 6:00 The Barber (PG) 6:30 NITV News: Summer Yarns 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “The Shining” (M) (’80) Stars: Jack Nicholson

10:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Football: Isuzu UTE ALeague: Round 13: Western Sydney Wanderers v Newcastle Jets *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight 7:35 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 13: Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory *Live*

12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers (PG) 3:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00 The Neighborhood (PG) 12:30 South Park (PG)

1:30 Rock Solid Builds (PG) 2:30 Barnwood Builders 3:30 Find My Country House Australia 4:30 Building Alaska (PG) 5:30 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 6:30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses 7:30 Farmhouse Fixer (PG) 8:30 House Hunters USA

3:00 Play School 3:25 The Scarecrows’ Wedding 4:00 Odd Squad 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:10 Thomas And Friends 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Piripenguins 7:30 Hard Quiz Kids

2:30 If You’re Listening 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Deep Time 4:00 ABC News 4:15 Boyer Lecture Series 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Culture By Design 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 ABC News SA

3:40 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:10 Heartbreak High (PG) 4:55 MythBusters (PG) 5:45 Car S.O.S (PG) 6:35 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG)

5:30 Toast The Host: How To Entertain At Home 6:05 Audra’s Eat, Roam, Relish 6:30 Hairy Bikers Go West 7:35 Secret World Of Snacks: Sandwiches 8:30 Rick Stein’s Mediterranean Escapes 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s Tour

12:00 The Rap Game UK (M l) 3:00 Worldwatch 5:10 SBS50 (PG) 5:15 Mastermind 6:15 The Mysterious Havana Syndrome (PG) 7:05 Abandoned Americana (PG) 8:00 Motorsport: Dakar Rally *Live*

2:45 Lego Masters (PG) 4:30 WNBL: Southside Melbourne Flyers v Adelaide Lightning *Live* 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Hunger Games: The Ballad Of Songbirds & Snakes” (M v) (’23) 10:35 Movie: “Power Rangers” (M v) (’17)

10:30 Explore 10:40 Edgar Wallace Mysteries (PG) 12:00 The Avengers (PG) 1:00 Tennis: Adelaide International Day Session: Day 6 *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Adelaide International Night Session: Day 6 *Live* 8:00 Death In Paradise (M v)

10:00 Secret Science (PG) 10:30 New Leash On Life (PG) 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission 1:25 Gardening Australia 2:25 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now (PG) 3:15 The Assembly (PG) 4:00 Poh’s Kitchen On The Road 4:30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Grand Designs Transformation (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now (PG)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Summer (PG) 12:00 NFL: Divisional Playoff: Teams TBA *Live* 3:30 Golf: Cathedral Invitational Highlights 4:30 Cows For Cambodia (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Brisbane Heat v Sydney Sixers *Live* 10:30 Cricket: Post Game 11:00 7News Spotlight: Outback Mystery (M) 12:00 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under Highlights

6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Pre Show *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 4:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Late Night Session *Live* 12:00 The First 48 (M v) 1:00 Next Stop 1:30 Home Shopping 4:00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo

9:00 My Market Kitchen 9:30 Luca’s Key Ingredient 10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:00 Well Travelled (PG) 11:30 Pooches At Play 12:00 The Dog Academy (PG) 1:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 1:30 Lingo (PG) 2:30 NBL: Round 17: Adelaide 36ers v South East Melbourne Phoenix *Live* 4:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 10 News Plus 7:00 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! 9:00 NCIS: Sydney (M v) 10:00 NCIS: Origins (M v)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:15 Matched (PG) 10:05 The Eco Show (PG) 11:00 Phase III Odyssey (M l) 12:00 Worldwatch 1:00 Motorsport: Speedweek 3:00 Cycling: Westbridge Funds Road Nats Highlights 4:00 Yacht Racing: Sail GP Australia *Live* 5:30 Motorsport: Dakar Rally Highlights 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Once Upon A Time In Space (In English/ Russian) 9:30 Pompeii The Last Mysteries Revealed (M) (In English/ French/ Italian)

11:30 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under: Women’s Stage 2 *Live* 4:00 The Amazing Homemakers (PG) 5:00 Secrets Of Beautiful Gardens 6:00 Escape To The Country 7:00 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (M)

12:00 Blow Up (PG) 2:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 1:00 Zumbo’s Just 3:30 Storage Wars (PG) Desserts (PG) 3:30 A 4:00 Deep Water Year On Planet Earth (PG) Salvage (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Border Security 4:30 Puppy School (PG) 5:30 - International (PG) 7:00 Border The Conners (PG) 6:30 Dogs Security - Australia’s Front Line Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Bourne 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) Supremacy” (M l,v) (’04)

4:40 Stompem Ground 6:30 NITV News: Summer Yarns 6:40 Africa’s Hidden Kingdoms 7:30 The Idea Of Australia (M v) 8:30 Movie: “A Journey Between The Fires: Troy Cassar-Daley” (M) (’24) Stars: Troy Cassar-Daley

6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 Tough Tested 9:00 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 9:30 Camper Deals 10:00 Navigating The World 12:00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 1:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

1:30 Fantasy Homes 6:00 Deal Or No Deal By The Sea 2:30 Maine 8:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00 Cabin Masters (PG) The Neighborhood 3:30 Britain’s Most Expensive (PG) 11:30 The Late Show Houses (PG) 4:30 Farmhouse With Stephen Colbert (PG) Fixer (PG) 5:30 House Hunters 2:30 Deal Or No Deal 3:00 USA 6:30 House Hunters Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:35 Frasier International 7:30 Home Town (PG) 10:30 The Neighborhood 8:30 Christina On The Coast

3:05 Play School 3:30 The Highway Rat 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:10 Octonauts And The Great Barrier Reef 6:05 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Piripenguins

2:00 ABC News 2:30 Culture By Design 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Play On 4:00 ABC News 4:30 Landline 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Regional Roundup 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 The Pacific 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 ABC News SA

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) 8:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:35 Louis Theroux: America’s Most Dangerous Pets (M l) 9:35 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now

5:30 Cheese: Searching For A Taste Of Place 6:30 Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted 7:30 Marcus Wareing’s Kitchen Garden Tales 8:00 The Streets With Dan Hong 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s Tour

12:10 Mastermind 1:40 Jeopardy! 3:45 Heroines 4:15 Worldwatch 5:45 Icons Unearthed (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 Mutiny In Heaven - The Birthday Party (MA15+) 10:25 The Grudge (M)

1:10 Australian Ninja Warrior (PG) 3:10 Snackmasters (PG) 4:40 Lego Masters (PG) 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 Seinfeld (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Batman” (M l,v) (’22) Stars: Robert Pattinson

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

5:00 Worldwatch 9:20 Matched (PG) 10:10 The Eco Show (PG) 11:10 Phase III Odyssey (M l) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:00 Cycling: Westbridge Funds Road Nats Highlights 4:00 Yacht Racing: Sail GP Australia *Live* 5:30 Motorsport: Dakar Rally Highlights 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses 8:40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys (In English/ German) 9:40 The Secret DNA Of Us (PG)

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

10:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Pre Show *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Major Crimes (M v) 12:00 Recipes For Love And Murder (M l,v)

Thursday 22 January

Wednesday 21 January

Tuesday 20 January

Monday 19 January

Get Macca’s® delivered. 2:00 Restoration Australia 2:55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 3:25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 3:55 Grand Designs - The Streets (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 The Great Art Fraud (PG) 9:00 The Secret Of Me (PG) 10:35 ABC Late News 4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG)

12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Seven News With Alex Cullen 1:10 Blankety Blank (PG) 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover 8:30 Tik Tok - Top 100 (M l) 10:30 Kylie Vs Bee Gees (PG)

6:00 Today 10:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Pre Show *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 4:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 6:00 NINE News 7:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Late Night Session *Live* 12:00 Chicago Med (MA15+)

2:00 Restoration Australia 2:55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 3:25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 4:00 Grand Designs - The Streets (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:35 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work 8:30 Human (PG) 9:30 Grand Designs Transformations (PG)

12:00 Movie: “Murder, She Baked: Just Desserts” (M v) (’17) Stars: Alison Sweeney 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Cricket: BBL: Teams TBA *Live* 11:00 Cricket: Post Game 11:30 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG)

3:55 Worldwatch 5:50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 WIN News 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 The Nanny (PG)

12:00 Farm To Fork 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:00 10 News Plus 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:30 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! 9:00 Matlock (PG) 10:00 10’s Late News 10:30 10 News Plus

11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 The Chelsea Detective (M l,v)

3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:35 Plat Du Tour 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Ocean Wreck Investigation (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (M) 8:35 Portillo’s 200 Years Of The Railways

4:00 First Home Fix 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 1:30 The Dog Academy 5:30 Indian Country 3:00 Dodger (PG) 4:00 4:30 American 5:00 Scott’s Vacation The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) Today News 6:00 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) Restoration (PG) 5:00 House Rules (PG) 6:00 (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 4:30 The Living Room Bamay 6:40 Arabian 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 House Hunters International Inferno (PG) 7:30 Big Backyard (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS 8:00 The Big Bang Theory 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 10:30 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Cricket: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Quiz (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Finke: (M v) 8:30 FBI: International House Hunters: All Stars (M) 10:20 The Ex-Wife (M l,s,v) Frasier (PG) There And Back” (PG) (’18) (M s,v) 9:30 CSI: Miami (M) Pre-Game

5:30 Car S.O.S (PG) 12:00 ABC News At 4:30 Mojo Swoptops 6:15 Portrait Artist Of Noon 1:00 ABC News 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 The Year UK 7:00 Day 3:00 ABC News Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Claire Hooper’s House Of Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The Afternoons 4:00 ABC News Summer 6:00 ABC News Hour Games 7:30 QI (PG) 8:05 Adventures Of Paddington Would I Lie To You? (PG) 7:00 ABC National News 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago

1:55 Restoration Australia 2:55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 3:25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 3:55 Grand Designs - House Of The Year (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering (PG) 9:00 Always Was Tonight

12:00 Movie: “Seasoned With Love” (PG) (’21) Stars: Julia Benson 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Cricket: BBL: Teams TBA *Live* 11:00 Cricket: Post Game 11:30 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under Highlights

4:30 American 4:00 Medical Restoration (PG) 5:00 Emergency (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The 5:30 American Pickers (PG) Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Cricket: Pre-Game Heartbeat (PG)

2:00 Restoration Australia 2:55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 3:25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 3:55 Grand Designs - House Of The Year (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Grand Designs Transformations 9:00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 9:30 Goolagong (M)

5:30 Rachael Ray’s Meals In Minutes 6:00 Jamie At Home 6:30 Secrets Of The Curry Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

3:45 Worldwatch 5:50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 WIN News 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 The Nanny (PG)

12:00 Farm To Fork 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:00 10 News Plus 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:30 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! 9:00 Elsbeth (M v) 10:00 10’s Late News 10:30 10 News Plus

11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Agatha Christie’s Marple (PG)

3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:35 Plat Du Tour 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Ocean Wreck Investigation (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Michael Palin - Into Iraq (PG) 8:30 The Jury - Murder Trial UK 9:25 Crime (MA15+)

4:00 First Home Fix 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 12:45 The Young And 5:30 APTN National 3:00 Dodger (PG) 4:00 5:00 Escape To The The Big Bang Theory The Restless (PG) 1:30 News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) Chateau 6:00 House (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) A Million Little Things Arabian Inferno (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) Hunters International 6:30 (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The 8:00 The Big Bang Theory 7:30 Our Medicine (PG) 8:40 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 10:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Earth Oven (In English/ Maori) Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG House (MA15+) 10:30 CSI: Home Town 8:30 Good Bones Frasier (PG) (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 9:30 Emily - I Am Kam (PG) Miami (MA15+)

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

3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:35 Plat Du Tour 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Ocean Wreck Investigation (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Movie: “Dolly Parton: Here I Am” (PG) (’19) Stars: Dabney Coleman

4:00 Derelict Rescue 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 1:30 The Dog Academy 5:30 The 77 Percent 3:00 Dodger (PG) 4:00 4:30 American 5:00 Christina On The The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) Restoration (PG) 5:00 Coast (PG) 6:00 House (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 4:30 The Living Room Africa’s Hidden 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 Hunters International 6:30 (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS 8:00 The Big Bang Theory Kingdoms 7:30 The Idea Of American Pickers: Pinball Jack 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 10:30 House Hunters USA 7:00 (M v) 8:30 FBI: Most Wanted Australia (M v) 8:30 Movie: Law & Order: Criminal Intent (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) House Hunters: All Stars Frasier (PG) “The Colleano Heart” (PG) (’25) (M v) 10:20 The Ex-Wife (M) (M v) 7:30 Outback Opal Hunters

5:30 Rachael Ray’s 5:30 Car S.O.S (PG) 1:00 ABC News Day 4:30 Mojo Swoptops Meals In Minutes 6:00 6:15 Portrait Artist Of 3:00 ABC News 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Jamie At Home 6:30 The Year UK 7:00 Afternoons 4:00 ABC Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Secrets Of The Curry Kitchen Masks Power Heroes 6:25 The News Summer 6:00 ABC News Claire Hooper’s House Of Hour 7:00 ABC National News Games (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:05 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Adventures Of Paddington Liaw Would I Lie To You? (PG) 7:30 7:30 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago

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

12:00 Movie: “Playing Cupid” (PG) (’21) Stars: Laura Vandervoort 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Marry Me” (PG) (’22) Stars: Jennifer Lopez 10:50 Boyzone: Life, Death And Boybands (PG)

5:30 Rachael Ray’s Meals In Minutes 6:00 Jamie At Home 6:30 Secrets Of The Curry Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

3:50 Worldwatch 5:50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

12:00 Britain’s Got 5:30 American Pickers Talent (PG) 3:30 (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars Dodger (PG) 4:30 (PG) 7:30 More Power: Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Power Under Pressure 8:30 Movie: “The Taking Of Pelham Judy (PG) 7:30 Ramsay’s 24 Hours To Hell And Back (M l) 123” (MA15+) (’09)

4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 WIN News 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 The Nanny (PG)

12:00 Farm To Fork 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:00 10 News Plus 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Parenthood (PG) 8:30 The Graham Norton Show (PG) 9:40 Law & Order: SVU (M s,v)

11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Midsomer Murders (M v)

3:00 Going Places (PG) 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Ocean Wreck Investigation (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Toronto Airport Uncovered (PG) 8:25 Robson Green - World’s Most Amazing Walks 9:20 In Flight (M)

4:00 First Home Fix 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 1:30 A Million Little 5:30 Going Places With 5:00 Windy City Rehab The Big Bang Theory Things (PG) 2:30 JAG Ernie Dingo (PG) 6:00 6:00 House Hunters (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) (PG) 4:30 The Living Bamay 6:40 Arabian International 6:30 House 8:00 The Big Bang Theory Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) Inferno (PG) 7:30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 The Ex- (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 10:30 Hunters USA 7:30 Fixer Upper 9:30 My Lottery Dream Home Frasier (PG) Wife (M l,s,v) 8:30 Reckless (M l,s) 5:30 Rachael Ray’s Meals In Minutes 6:00 Jamie At Home 6:30 Secrets Of The Curry Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

3:45 Worldwatch 5:50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 WIN News 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 The Nanny (PG)

11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Poirot (PG) 1:00 Religious Programs

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

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

ON THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL HARBOUR

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

UNIQUELY AUSTRALIAN DESIGN TRENDS BASED ON WHERE YOU LIVE | SEE PAGE 48 Western Property

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

CAMBRIDGE PARK HOME HAS IT ALL

HOW TO CREATE A SMART GOAL IN 2026

WHAT DO THE STARS HAVE IN STORE?

SEE PAGE 49

SEE PAGE 56

SEE PAGE 57

SUMMER CLUB ☀

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FEATURE STORY

HOW YOUR LOCATION CAN IMPACT DESIGN S

tep inside an Australian home in 2026 and you’ll notice the difference immediately: softer light, warmer colours, textures you want to touch. Cool greys and stark whites are continuing to give way to clay, sand, and olive tones, while glossy finishes are being replaced with matte and natural surfaces with beautiful patina. Flooring and window treatments are setting the mood – turning everyday rooms into places that feel calm, personal and enduring. Australian homes aren’t defined by a single look. From Queensland’s coastal apartments to cottages in regional New South

Wales and Victoria, contemporary styling in Western Australia, heritage in South Australia and townhouses in our nation’s capital, design choices vary as much as the climates across the country. “Because we’re working with so many different communities, we see first-hand how people adapt trends to suit their location and style of home,” said Georgina Redenbach, Interior Designer and founder of Olive and Pear Designs, in partnership with Andersens. “In warmer climates, pale hybrids and sheer curtains are popular for maximising light and airflow, while in cooler regions

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we’re seeing heritage-inspired parquetry and layered window treatments making a confident return. It’s a national story, but told in very local ways.”

“AUSTRALIAN HOMES AREN’T DEFINED BY A SINGLE LOOK”

One of the most interesting shifts is the re-emergence of the colour green in carpet and rugs – from eucalyptus tones, khakis and softer sage shades. These hues are being chosen for bedrooms and living areas to add warmth underfoot while maintaining that connection to nature. They also pair beautifully with natural timber grains, especially spotted gum, where the depth of the timber is lifted by a green palette that feels fresh but enduring. “Greens are incredibly versatile,” added Redenbach. “They work with light oak for a softer, airy palette or with darker timbers like spotted gum for a look that’s richer and more dramatic. The green tones pick up the deeper grain in the spotted gum, creating a layered effect that feels both new and nostalgic, reminding us of heritage or mid-century era interiors, but with a modern, natural edge. While we’ve seen green used in kitchens for some time, it’s refreshing to see the colour now transitioning into floor coverings as well.” Minimalism continues to soften, particularly in places with cooler winters. Flooring designs are moving towards mixed-width boards, chevron motifs and matte

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

finishes, while window treatments are increasingly layered. In heritage-rich areas, traditional design details are making a return but with a modern twist. Parquetry, herringbone flooring and patterned tiles are resonating with homeowners looking for authenticity and craft. “We’re seeing a real ‘Heritage Revival’,” noted Redenbach. “Heritage-inspired details bring craftsmanship back into interiors. In older homes, people are rediscovering parquetry, herringbone flooring and enhanced detailing in architraves, and pairing them with richer colours in furnishings and window coverings. Patterned or textured curtains with interesting trims can also be a nod to the original architecture of a home. Even in newer homes, the introduction of layered textures and detailing is a great way to bring softness and personality into a space. It’s a way of balancing richness with lightness, character with modern practicality.” This revival also taps into nostalgia. Many Australians are reimagining the details they grew up with in their parents’ or grandparents’ homes, decorative floors, rich textiles but refreshing them with modern fabrics like linen and voile so the look feels crafted, not dated. It’s a blend of eras that celebrates quality and personality while keeping the home comfortable and contemporary. Meanwhile, coastal influences remain strong. Sandy neutrals, pale oak and stone-look flooring mirror seaside palettes, while breezy sheers and motorised blinds capture the relaxed feel of coastal living. For more inspiration and to explore Andersens’ complete range of flooring and window furnishings, visit www.andersens.com.au.

SUMMER CLUB ☀

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58 COLLEGE STREET, CAMBRIDGE PARK

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

ENERGY-EFFICIENT FAMILY HOME WITH THE LOT What is so great about this property? An energy-efficient home offering long-term savings, featuring a new 5kW solar system, Tesla Powerwall 3, and an extra-large heat pump hot water system designed for everyday efficiency.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

Who does this property suit? Ideal for homeowners and savvy investors seeking a

practical, low-maintenance property with strong long-term value and reduced energy costs. Tell us more about the suburb this property is in? Set in a highly sought-after location in Cambridge Park which is close to shops, public transport, parks, and essential amenities, offering everyday convenience and excellent lifestyle appeal.

OPEN FOR INSPECTION: Saturday, January 17 11.45am-12.15pm CONTACT: RE/MAX Lifestyle Marketing Gizzelle Powell • 0428 934 618 gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

NHOM W

S E LL

Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.

The Residences Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

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

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

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

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

The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

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

56546

Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

A wide range of affordably priced residences now selling.

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

oranpark.com.au 02 9043 7500

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.® OFFICE: Suite 1, 235 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750

27/83-85 Union Road, Penrith

Orchard Hills

Ideal First Home Or Investment

PROPERTY LAUNCH

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PROPERTY LAUNCH: Sat 17 Jan 9:30am - 10:00am GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

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LAND AREA: 2.17ha (5.36 acres)

• Split system air conditioning for year round comfort • Secure basement parking plus intercom entry • Well kept complex with landscaped surrounds and lift access • Short walk to Penrith Station, Westfield, cafés, restaurants, and local amenities

58 College Street, Cambridge Park

2.5

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

33 Winbin Crescent, Gwandalan, Central Coast

Ideal Family Home or Investment

JUST LISTED

Welcome to 58 College Street, offering modern comfort, generous living spaces and an unbeatable location. Perfect for homeowners or savvy investors, this residence delivers a lifestyle of convenience, practicality, and long-term value. Positioned in a highly sought-after area, the property is just moments from shops, public transport, parks and amenities. Schools are also conveniently close, making it an ideal home for families seeking everyday ease and accessibility.

WATER VIEWS

OPEN HOME: Sat 17 Jan 11:45am - 12:15pm LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

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

4 Small Crescent, Glenmore Park

13/213 Derby Street, Penrith

Rare Opportunity | One-of-a-Kind Property on 1,155sqm

JUST LISTED

Proudly offered for the very first time, this property presents a rare opportunity to secure a home that perfectly blends modern sophistication with classic character. This property combines timeless style, generous proportions, and resort-style living in one of Glenmore Park’s most established and desirable locations.

Conveniently located two-bedroom unit featuring a sunlit open plan and balcony. Walk to Nepean Village, Penrith Panthers, transport, schools, and cafes, with easy access to Nepean Hospital.

OPEN HOME: Sat 17 Jan 11:00am - 11:30am

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

Ideal First Home or Investment Opportunity

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Discover contemporary living in this stylish 2-bedroom apartment, perfect for those seeking convenience and comfort. Boasting a spacious, light-filled floor plan, this home offers a seamless transition from the cozy living area to a private balcony, ideal for relaxation and entertaining.

3/132 Stock Avenue, Kingswood

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2+ 1

We have qualified buyers who missed out and are ready to purchase! If you’re thinking of selling, call or SMS Gizzelle Powell for your FREE Market Appraisal.

OPEN HOME: Sat 17 Jan 12:30pm - 1:00pm

TESTIMONIAL Highly recommend

“

Gizzelle at RE/MAX was an absolute pleasure to work with. She is knowledgeable, professional, and always quick to respond. Gizzelle guided us through every step of the process with patience and clarity, making what could have been a stressful experience feel smooth and manageable. Her attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and genuine care for her clients truly set her apart. I would highly recommend Gizzelle to anyone looking to buy or sell a home. – MW (Seller)

”

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Positioned on a low-maintenance 225sqm block, this freestanding three-bedroom villa offers the perfect blend of privacy, practicality, and lifestyle appeal. With spacious interiors and versatile outdoor zones, it’s ideal for families, downsizers, or savvy investors seeking comfort and convenience.

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

NEW PODCAST AVAILABLE NOW

f you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or frustrated by nutrition advice, you’re not alone. One week a food is labelled a “superfood”, the next it’s something to avoid. Social media and headlines can make eating well feel complicated, and that’s exactly why we created ‘What the Health?’, the OnePointHealth podcast. Hosted by myself and fellow Accredited Practising Dietitian Emma, ‘What the Health?’ is a monthly podcast designed to cut through the food noise and deliver clear, evidencebased nutrition advice you can actually trust. Our goal is simple: to help people feel confident about food and their health, without guilt, fear, or fads. As dietitians, we see firsthand how misinformation impacts people’s relationship with food. Our podcast is a space for real conversations, backed by science, explained in a practical

and approachable way. We break down complex topics, debunk common myths, and share realistic tips that fit into everyday life, because nutrition shouldn’t feel overwhelming or all-or-nothing.

So far, we’ve covered a wide range of topics, including gut health, understanding how your digestive system really works, and healthy holiday hacks, because enjoying food is just as important as nourishing your body. We’ve also explored how small, sustainable changes can make a big difference long term. Looking ahead, we’re excited to dive into upcoming episodes on how to read nutrition labels (without needing a science degree)

HEALTH

SWIM SAFETY

The Experts

HORROR START TO NEW YEAR

I LAUREN DAVIDSON OnePointHealth 4732 5188 and a special series on “feeding the brain”, featuring our OnePointHealth Psychologist, Taleisha. Together, we’ll explore the powerful connection between nutrition, mental health and wellbeing. ‘What the Health?’ is for anyone who’s tired of trends and looking for reliable, judgement-free nutrition advice from qualified professionals who genuinely care. Whether you’re managing a health condition, trying to improve your energy, or simply want to better understand food, this podcast is for you. You can listen to ‘What the Health?’ on Spotify or YouTube.

wish I could say Happy New Year, but unfortunately, it’s been a horror start to 2026 in terms of water safety. Speaking to Sydney’s 2GB radio last week, Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce described the death toll so far for 2026 as “absolutely horrendous”, and I have to agree. At the time of writing five people have lost their lives and surf lifesavers say they have performed hundreds of rescues across the nation’s beaches since Christmas Day. Over the New Year period, the risk of drowning is three times greater than at any other time of the year. So it seems timely to remind everyone to commit to some Water Safety resolutions, and to implement them all year round. Supervision is key. A lapse in adult supervision was the major risk factor in 100 per cent of all toddler drowning deaths last year, and drowning remains the number one cause of accidental death in children under five, with

most deaths in this age group occurring in backyard pools. Please don’t be distracted when with children around water – nothing is more important than their safety. Put the phone down and enjoy this precious time in the sun. Never assume someone else is watching.

Every water safety education program has a common message – learn to swim – from babies to children to adults. It is a proven fact that swimming lessons save lives. The sooner your child can get safety back to the edge of the pool unaided, the better. Make this year your year to get your kids into lessons, and to learn yourself if required. If your children are not yet in lessons – please enrol them.

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

If your children are learning to swim – please keep them in lessons until they are truly competent. Looking for something to do next week? We run intensive discounted lessons at Nepean Aquatic Centre, fast tracking swim skills. At home, it’s so important to check pool fences regularly and shut the gate. Accidental falls into water remain the leading activity prior to drowning among children under five. Check the fence is safe and cannot be climbed, and that the pool gate is self latching. Barriers provide an important extra layer of protection but are never a substitute for constant adult supervision.

KINGSWOOD we’ve got you covered

Kingswood locals can pick the paper up at the following locations

LEARN TO

Swim

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FOR ALL AGES

Swim for Safety!

nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au | 4730 8900 54

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

westernweekender.com.au/getapaper

PET HEALTH The Experts

STARTING THE YEAR THE RIGHT WAY FOR YOUR PET T

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

he beginning of the year often brings a welcome sense of calm after the festive rush. With routines returning and life slowing just enough to catch our breath, it’s the perfect opportunity to check that everything is in order – especially when it comes to the health and wellbeing of our pets. One of the most important places to start is your pet’s vaccinations. Keeping vaccinations up-to-date helps protect your pet from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases, many of which still exist in our local area. An annual health check also allows our vets to assess your pet from nose to tail, identify any early concerns, and make sure they’re set up for a healthy year ahead. Heartworm prevention is another key consideration, particularly for dogs. Heartworm disease is preventable, but once a pet is infected it can be complex and costly to treat. With recent cases detected locally, year-round

prevention is essential. If life got busy over Christmas and doses were missed or delayed, now is a great time to get protection back on track. It’s also worth taking a moment to review your pet’s microchip

ever goes missing. For families with young pets, this time of year is ideal to plan ahead for desexing. Desexing is generally recommended from around six months of age, depending on your pet’s breed

details. We regularly see lost pets whose microchips are registered with outdated phone numbers or addresses, making reunions far more difficult than they need to be. A quick check and update can make all the difference if your pet

and individual needs. It offers important health and behavioural benefits and helps prevent unwanted litters. Booking early allows you to choose a time that suits your family and ensures your pet receives care at the right

stage of development. Dental care is another area that’s often postponed during the busy end-of-year period. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues we see and can affect much more than just your pet’s mouth. Dental checks and timely treatment can significantly improve comfort, overall health, and quality of life – and if you’ve been meaning to book that appointment “after Christmas”, now really is the perfect time. Finally, behaviour and training play a big role in your pet’s wellbeing. A well-trained dog is not only a joy to live with but also safer and more confident in everyday situations. If you’re experiencing challenges or would like guidance, our team is always happy to help point you in the right direction. At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to support you and your pet every step of the way. Contact us on 4736 2027 for advice or assistance in making 2026 your pet’s best year yet.

SUMMER CLUB ☀

Have you noticed the ‘SUMMER CLUB’ banners on some Weekender ads?

WHAT IS THE SUMMER CLUB?

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL!

Spots in ‘SUMMER CLUB’ are extremely limited. Email sales@westernweekender.com.au to find out how you can be part of it.

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The Summer Club is a collection of advertisers who’ve partnered with the Weekender to promote their businesses across the summer as part of an exclusive package.

We urge you to support the businesses who support free local news in Penrith!

At Orchard Hills ills Veterinary Hospital, we understand d that your pet is a cherished family ily member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pett care services to animals acrosss the Penrith district.

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

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

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

WW57725

56538

MONEY MATTERS

TURNING A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION INTO A PLAN

Future Financial Services 4704 8585

Instead of saving more, a SMART goal would be to save $100 per week. These goals are further enhanced if we can identify why we are saving the money. Is it for a house deposit, a holiday, our children’s education or retirement? Saving $100 per week to purchase a house in 2029 would be an excellent goal. There are some excellent habits that assist us in achieving these

goals. 1. Keep a track of your spending – that way you are able decipher between your essential and discretionary monthly expenses and pinpoint areas where you can reduce spending, increase savings or decrease debt. Try to identify spending that adds little or nothing to your life and re-direct that to your goal.

B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B

B B

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2. Save first – Once you have identified how much you can save, put that money aside. Better still, also separate out all non-discretionary spending (money for bills), the remainder is for you to spend. 3. Pay off your credit card debt – Credit card debt is a millstone around our neck. Interest rates are very high, normally around 20 per cent. If you have any additional funds, they should initially be used to repay credit card debt. You won’t receive a return anywhere near 20 per cent without significant risk. Once you have paid off your credit card, you will significantly increase your disposable income. Those savings can be re-directed to your goal. The new year is a great time to reassess your financial situation. When you do so, go one step further than a vague resolution, create a SMART goal and put a plan in place to achieve it.

WW43938

s we enter a new year fast, millions of people around the world will have just made resolutions and hope to stick with them throughout the year. A recent survey indicated that 15 per cent of New Year’s resolutions are financial goals. Not surprisingly, most resolutions fail. Two key reasons for this are: we often set ourselves overly optimistic goals that are in reality difficult to achieve and, often our goals are vague with no plan on how to achieve them. The top three financial New Year’s resolutions set in Australia are; saving more, spending less, and reducing debt. While these are great in theory, they are too broad and don’t focus on the small and simple ways to achieve these goals. Turning vague broad concepts into SMART goals will significantly increase the chance of being successful. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely.

The Experts

B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

You’ve been laying low but it’s time for quirky Aquarians to sparkle and shine! This week the fiery Sun, mercurial Mercury, sociable Venus, transformative Pluto and dynamic Mars are visiting your sign. So strive to be as proactive and productive as possible. Other people are looking to you for leadership and inspiration. Motivation for the week is from birthday great, singer/songwriter Michael Hutchence, “Life is short. Live it fully, passionately.”

The planets highlight your humanitarian and helping zones, as you concentrate on the needs of those around you. You’re keen to get involved with a project from behind-the-scenes but be careful you don’t get lost in a fantasy world. With earthy, practical Saturn still transiting through your sign, keep your feet firmly planted on the ground. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, writer Virginia Woolf, “You cannot find peace by avoiding life.”

Monday’s New Moon suggests big changes are brewing at work. Perhaps a different job, altered working conditions or a convivial new colleague. The planets also encourage you to hold out the olive branch of peace to a friend or acquaintance as you crank up your diplomatic skills, sympathise and compromise. Nifty networking, creative communication and smart negotiation are the secrets to smooth partnerships, as you tactfully talk things through.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

On Monday the New Moon focuses on holidays, travel and adventure, with increased interactions with international colleagues and/or friends in faraway places. However, after your trip or vacation is over, it will be straight back to work as the Sun, Mercury, and Mars join Venus and Pluto in your career/reputation zone. Even if you’re on holiday for the whole week, there’ll still be tasks to complete. Whatever you do, people will be talking about you!

This week’s Sun/Mercury/Venus/Pluto conjunctions favour broadening your horizons via travel, adventure, education and communication. It’s time to be positive and confident as you socialise and fraternize, sparkle and shine. Lucky opportunities and fortuitous connections will take you places. Your motto for the week is from birthday great, fashion designer Christian Dior, “Zest is the secret of all beauty. There is no beauty that is attractive without zest.”

Sociable, generous Jupiter is transiting through your sign (until June 30) so you’re at your chatty, charming best. But are you worried about your shrinking bank balance? Avoid going on a spontaneous spending spree or lending money to pushy, persuasive people. You’re liable to make impulsive decisions based purely on your changeable emotions, which are fluctuating at the moment. It is a good week to daydream, read, reflect, research and revise.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Have you overdone eating, drinking and partying during the Christmas/ New Year season? Are you now feeling like a sluggish Lion or looking like a super-curvy Cat? It’s a good week to start a healthy new diet or an updated exercise routine, as the earthy New Moon highlights your wellbeing zone. By the end of the week, you’ll have five planets revving up your relationship zone. So it’s also time to put family and friends first as you love, nurture and spoil them.

Monday’s New Moon stimulates your love and friendship zone, suggesting a rejuvenated romantic relationship or a promising new friendship. Plus the Sun, Pluto, Venus, Mars and Mercury (your ruling planet) are transiting through your daily routine zone, which highlights physical health and mental wellbeing issues. And it also favours socialising with work colleagues and enjoying the simple things in life – like a hug from a child or a walk in the park.

This week, no less than six planets (the Sun, New Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Pluto) are transiting through your family, friendship and leisure zones. So it’s time to savour the comforts of home sweet home, share the good times with loved ones, and enjoy pursuing your favourite hobbies. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Dolly Parton (who turns 80 on Monday), “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Monday’s New Moon lights up your education, communication and local travel zone, so it’s a good week to book a holiday, launch a podcast or initiate study plans. But expect some dramas, as Pluto (your patron planet) joins the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars in your home zone. Family fiascos, intense feelings, power plays and/or passionate outbursts are likely but there’s also the opportunity to connect with family and friends in deeply satisfying ways.

Don’t let fleeting whims and luxury fever get in the way of some serious financial planning. Monday’s earthy Capricorn New Moon (in your money zone) demands a disciplined attitude, a professional approach and a solid longterm strategy. It also promises reboots, relaunches, fresh dreams and exciting beginnings! Inspiring quote for the week comes from birthday great, entertainer Dolly Parton, “I wake up with new dreams every day.”

There’s a New Moon in Capricorn and the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Pluto link up in your self-esteem zone. So there is the tendency to be very intense, self-absorbed, self-critical and take yourself way too seriously. With jovial Jupiter in your relationship zone, try to relax and have some fun with loved ones – for the sake of your physical and mental wellbeing! Be inspired by poet (and birthday great) Lord Byron, “Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine.”

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Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

TRAVEL Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

WORDS

Ally Hall

SAY ‘BONJOUR’ TO LUXURY I

’m not a particularly good artist, but if someone asked me to sketch what a dream looks like, I would draw clouds. There is something whimsical about the shades of white and grey wisps and puffs that form above us in unpredictable shapes and swirls. So, to be amongst the clouds from my room at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour was a dream in itself. The five-star hotel combines French elegance with Australian charm, and the experience starts with a ‘Bonjour’ at the check-in desk. It features 590 luxurious rooms, five vibrant restaurants and bars, conference and event facilities, a gym, a spa, and a pool.

IMAGES Supplied

MORE INFO

(02) 8388 8888

“EVERY ITEM I TRIED WAS FRESH AND VIBRANT”

I stayed in the Luxury Corner Room with Club Millesime Benefits, which offered a la carte breakfast in the morning, refreshments of soft beverages and snacks throughout the day, Le Gouter afternoon tea which reflects the French love of 4pm pastries, and Apero Chic pre-dinner drinks and canapés in the evening. These benefits are enjoyed from level 35 of the hotel, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Sydney’s stunning skyline and Darling Harbour. From this vantage point, you can see ANZAC Bridge, The Star, Sydney Tower Eye, Pyrmont Bridge,

Restaurant Atelier.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

and the smorgasbord of office and residential buildings that form the Harbour’s backdrop. My room was on level 34. The curtains were closed when I first stepped in, so I had the pleasure of dramatically opening them to find that the view from above followed me one floor down – except now I had a private show. My 35 square-metre room boasted the same floor-to-ceiling windows as the dining area above. It was cleverly designed with earthy tones and luxurious furnishings. The carpet in the bedroom was various shades of brown and beige – reminding me of the view from an aeroplane when flying over dry Australian fields. Atop the carpet was a king-size bed adorned with white linens – bringing the clouds indoors. The bathroom cabinetry was oak coloured with a black marble benchtop

and sat against the windows across from sandstone tiles lining the back wall and the free-standing bathtub that I earmarked for a dip after dinner. For dinner, I didn’t need to leave the building, I just pressed number three in the elevator and glided down to Atelier – a restaurant delivering a modern twist on classic French cuisine. The award-winning restaurant was dimly lit, and dark wood was a common design feature. From my seat, I could see Darling Harbour – a body of water I’d started to become very acquainted with through the panes of the Sofitel. To start my dining experience, I ordered Atelier Miche Bread, Hiramasa Kingfish Cru, and O’Connor Black Angus Beef Tartare. For the mains, I feasted on Dry-aged Moorabool Corn-fed Duck Breast and Chevre Gnocchi. For dessert, I indulged in Raspberry Pistachio Cheesecake and Chocolate Marquis. I expected some of my choices to be quite heavy on my palate and stomach, but they were not. Every item I tried was fresh and vibrant. Every bite provided a harmony of flavours. Every new dish was a culinary adventure. Satisfied with my experience at Atelier, I returned to the earlier earmarked bathtub to take in the city that only becomes brighter in the dark. From there, with a glass of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne, I watched as drizzling rain formed traveling droplets on the window, and as light from the buildings surrounding the Harbour bounced off the ocean’s gentle rhythmic ripples, illuminating them and emphasising the sea’s natural beauty. With my head in the clouds, my night at Sofitel Darling Harbour was a dream come true.

Ally Hall at Club Millesime on level 35.

The lobby at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Download the Western Weekender App! Av aila ble fro m the Go og le Pla y and

ACROSS DOWN 1. The festive season 1. Bone photo (1-3) 4. Israeli communal 2. Major blood vessel farm 3. Health spring 8. Rectangular courtyard 4. Titanic actress, ... 11. TV serial melodrama, Winslet soap ... 5. Slay by guillotine 13. Pass (law) 6. Panties 15. Display 7. Fervour 17. Used to own 8. Senior barristers (1,2) 18. Traditional 9. About-face (1-4) 20. Moreover 10. Supermarket section 21. Oscar-winner, ... 12. Eagle’s home Witherspoon 14. Of sound 24. Ran in neutral 16. Fashionably old27. Typist’s ailment fashioned (1,1,1) 19. Horse relatives 28. Silently understood 22. Draws with acid 30. Wage recipient 23. Flings 31. Large felines 25. Cause hearing loss 33. Best-ever time 26. Stage show, Billy ... 34. Deckhand The Musical 35. Portrait, ... Lisa 29. Collapsed (of 36. Military HQ economy) 39. Movie locations 32. Ball 42. Criminal 35. Snail or oyster 44. Neither ... nor that 37. Valuable quality 45. Lucifer 38. Joined (contest) 46. Material flaps 40. Alcoholic apple drink 48. Enticed 41. Beatrice & Eugenie’s mother 49. Irish author, ... Binchy 42. Whim 50. Paradise garden 43. Titled 52. Light comedy 44. Movement 54. Repressed, ... up 47. Wailing spirit 55. Indian prince 51. Country 56. Submits 52. Appear on screen gradually (4,2) 57. Bounders 53. Whichever 60. Chief 54. Braids 62. Revised (text) 58. Maxim 65. Holy place 59. Act as (example) 67. Prelude 61. Gangway 69. Very angry 63. Less wet 70. Swarms 64. Is in terror of 72. Weeder 65. Piles 73. Silly (remark) 66. Poor 75. Originate 68. Slender bottle tops 77. From the menu, ... carte (1,2) 71. Shopping complexes 79. Compere 72. Hither 81. Short out 74. Half-open 82. Valleys 76. Woes Previous solution78. - Medium 84. Fate Unchanged (2,2) 85. True-blue 80. Chew 1 7 6 5 4 9 8 86. Compass direction 83. Battery size (1,1,1) 4 2 3 6 7 5 8 9 87. Struggles against 8 6 5 3 4 2 1 88. Egyptian cobras

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r8ts.com

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

7 6 1 4 2 3

6 5

3 2

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

SUDOKU No. 776

Easy

3 8 4 2 5 3

6 2

7 7

1 5 9

the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

Previous solution - Very Hard

1 9 4 2 6 8 5 3 7

8 4 2

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

9 3

5 3 1 2 6

Crossword

Ap ple Sto re

2 5 6 9 3 7 4 1 8

8 7 3 5 4 1 6 2 9

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Test your knowledge about summer in this week’s special trivia quiz...

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ANSWERS 1. Sun Protection Factor 2. Northern Territory 3. Cicadas 4. Red and yellow 5. 50.7 in Oodnadatta, South Australia 6. Cricket 7. ‘Jaws’ 8. December, January and February

Trivia Quiz

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Str8ts

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the western weekender » Thursday, January 15, 2026

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MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

e-Power extends Qashqai range; neat features a bonus A

fter driving Nissan’s top-shelf N-Design Qashqai earlier in the year, it was interesting to get behind the wheel of the lesser Ti version, also using the e-POWER EV driveline. With the same body as the N-Design, the two versions are virtually identical, save for minor details, the most obvious the step ‘down’ to 19” alloy wheels. The Ti also gets attractive bodycoloured door mirrors, along with discreet black plastic wheel arch extensions and an optional gloss black roof that sets the body off nicely. As previously mentioned, I do like the Qashqai’s body shape, with more angles than Hollywood, including funky door pressings that give the car a sense of individuality in a crowded market.

“THE E-POWER QASHQAI SOLVES MANY EV CHALLENGES, WHILE PROVIDING A COMFORTABLE DRIVING EXPERIENCE”

The only downside is the upswept C-pillar can impact ‘over the shoulder’ rear vision, although this is offset by the blind-spot monitoring system. Inside, the Ti is a nice place to be, until the arrival of the N-Design it was the range-topper so there is plenty to keep you happy and comfortable. This means dual-zone climate control, a 12.3” touchscreen central display, wireless phone charger, PVC and leather trimmed front seats with power adjustment for the driver, heated steering wheel, auto-dimming rear view mirror and customisable interior ambient lighting.

The vehicle’s stylish interior.

Sadly, there is no Heads-Up Display, but it does include Nissan’s ProPILOT safety system, which includes pretty much every acronym in the automotive lexicon, thankfully I didn’t need to test any of these. Like the N-Design, the gear selector is a low-line, mouse-type unit that sits nicely in the palm of your hand, along with the electric park brake switch. The dash and console layout is clean and uncluttered, with wellplaced vents pushing air through

the cabin, the steering wheel retains its chunky, soft-feel finish, with a flattened bottom making it easier for big drivers to slide in and out of the car. Window and mirror controls remain on the doors, the control panel angles up from the arm rest, providing a natural feel to the operating ergonomics. With the same e-POWER driveline as the N-Design, the Qashqai stakes a strong claim as the best EV solution for Australia, it is not a raging powerhouse that will tear up the

The vehicle stuns on the open highway.

tarmac, but that was not Nissan’s goal either. Instead, they have created a sensible, flexible unit that meets the demands of the ‘average’ driver, while addressing regulatory and commercial concerns over urban pollution levels. I am not getting into arguments about the ultimate cleanliness of EV versus ICE manufacturing, sadly both are contributors to environmental issues, this is about the end-user experience. In that respect, the Qashqai delivers 100 per cent on its promises, this is an EV that removes range anxiety from the ownership equation, while offering good levels of comfort and practicality. Is it the greatest dynamic performer, able to race up to corners, brake, turn and then power away in record time? No, but that wasn’t the design brief, Nissan wanted a car for families, singles and couples that was practical, functional and with its own styling, which is exactly what this is. It steers well, it goes and it stops, the seats are comfortable for 90 per cent of the population, including my misshapen body, it holds a reasonable volume in the cargo area,

all without feeling like a science experiment. Is it my favourite car? No, but I am not the target market, my needs are different, and viewed objectively, against a backdrop of ever-increasing SUV sales, this is the car the market demands. And for those who crave an audible, non-CGI, soundtrack to their driving, something even the best performing BEV race cars cannot produce, the e-POWER driveline delivers. It is not an ‘always on’ rumble or grumble, but give the accelerator a big nudge and it is there, not raucous or rowdy, but a real engine noise that mirrors the driver’s inputs. Yes, there is some computer assistance, but for the most part what you hear is what you get, and in truth, for most buyers a raspy, rorty, exhaust note is not the selling point it once was. The biggest difference for most people will be using the optional ‘one pedal’ drive system, like many innovations, it is a challenge initially, but quickly becomes second nature. The system switches the accelerator into a ‘start/stop’ unit, you push to go, lift to slow or stop, using the magnetic regenerative brake system it converts rolling speed into electrical energy which is used to power the car. After adapting to it, the system becomes second nature, and stepping out of the Qashqai into a regular ICE vehicle, I had to retrain myself to use multiple pedals! Another bonus is extending the life of the wheel brakes, because they do less work, the interval between brake pad changes is extended, saving on operating costs. So, while the Qashqai is not the car for me, the e-POWER driveline is the best BEV solution for Australia, where travel distances and a developing infrastructure network do place limitations on EV uptake. Again, this is not a political or ideological debate, just recognising non-industry based regulators are introducing rules that encourage EVs, in which case the e-POWER Qashqai is worthy of investigation.

Thursday, January 15, 2026 « the western weekender

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Let’s get physical Nepean Physie Club enjoyed a sensational 2025 season NATHAN TAYLOR

40 member Melinda Przydacz (6th) and Over 50 member Peta Burke-Crozier (6th). In addition to the individual success, Nepean Physie Club’s Over 40 Ladies Team took out first place in the Championship grade. “This the highest grade and always a privilege to even perform in,” Head Teacher at Nepean Physie Club, Kim Annesley said. “To come away with first place was a dream come true and something we have worked hard towards achieving.” Nepean Physie Club holds classes every week at their various locations, with members enjoying fun choreography set to modern music to work on strength, flexibility and confidence as well as making friendships along the way. “Physie isn’t just about competition,” Annesley said. “It’s about belonging to a club that feels like family, developing confidence and strength, and enjoying a weekly activity that gives you exercise, laughter and friendships all in one.”

he calendar may have turned over to a new year, but the Nepean Physie Club is still celebrating what was a remarkable

Nepean Physie Club’s Over 40 Ladies Team.

Lucy Hunt celebrates.

2025 season. The long-running club, which has studios locally in both Werrington and Londonerry, enjoyed great results last year in both the individual and team component of the popular dance sport. 18-year-old Lucy Hunt was awarded Novice Senior National Champion at the recent BJP National Finals at the Sydney Opera House.

Other National Placegetters from Nepean Physie Club included 12-year-old Lucy Lamplough (2nd), 11-year-old Caddens resident Lucia Posa (2nd), 13-year Glenmore Park local Zara Farrugia (2nd), Over 60 member Adele McGuinness (2nd), 11-year-old Kingswood resident Isabella Bateman (3rd), Over 70 member Lyn Lamont (4th), 15-year-old Mia Fahy from Regentville (5th), Over

Return of the Jack: Cogger delighted Story continued from » p.72

“It’s a pretty cool feeling and a highlight for me as a player and as a person. I’ve always felt valued here, which is a pretty special thing – I think everyone chases that whether that’s footy or in life.” Cogger played just 13 games for the Panthers in 2023, but he’ll always be remembered by supporters for helping Nathan Cleary steer the ship when Luai exited the field injured during the thrilling NRL Grand Final against Brisbane. Cogger, who hopes to play in the vacant number 14 jumper this season, said being a Panthers premiership winner is something that he’ll never forget. “I think I said at the 2023 Presentation Night before I left that Penrith will always hold a special part in my life and in my heart after that year,” he said. “The opportunity to come back here again and build on that and hopefully create some more special moments is something my partner and I are really looking forward to.”

Jack Cogger is happy in Penrith.

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SPORT

Wanderers celebrate victory

Thunder finally strike at home NATHAN TAYLOR

he Sydney Thunder celebrated a rare win on Monday night, securing a nail-biting victory over the Melbourne Renegades in their final home game of the season at ENGIE Stadium. A rain-affected match left the last-placed Thunder chasing a DLS-adjusted target of 140, with Chris Green and Nic Maddinson combining for a match-winning 45-run partnership to secure just their second win of the season. Green was named Player of the Match after hitting three consecutive sixes to finish unbeaten on 34, while Maddinson scored 30

runs and struck the winning blow to seal the four-wicket win. “Coming into this last home match, it was just extra motivation to get the job done,” Green said. “Anytime we win at home, this atmosphere, this crowd, our fan base is fantastic. They stick by us through thick and thin, last year was thick, this year through thin but we’re just grateful for them.” The Thunder will be looking to finish their BBL|15 campaign on a high this Friday night at the SCG when they face crosstown rivals the Sydney Sixers in the Sydney Smash. An upset win could see them potentially avoid the dreaded wooden spoon.

The Wanderers chalked up their third win of the season last weekend.

NATHAN TAYLOR

he Western Sydney Wanderers have lifted themselves off the bottom of the A-League Men’s ladder following a much-needed 1-0 win over Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park last weekend. The decisive moment came in the 29th minute when former Victory man Kosta Barbarouses converted a penalty after Daniel Elder adjudged that Clarismario Santos had handled Brandon Borrello’s close-range effort. Barbarouses calmly rolled the spot-kick past Jack Warshawsky, making his A-League debut in place of the concussed Jack Duncan. Victory pushed hard in search of an equaliser, with former Wanderer Juan Mata

delivering his usual class from wide areas, while Santos and Nishan Velupillay created several dangerous opportunities. Incredibly, last Saturday’s win was Western Sydney’s first since defeating Sydney FC way back on November 29. “I thought it was a battle for us tonight. We played our 12th game this year and for me we probably played better in our other 11 to be honest,” Wanderers coach Alen Stajcic admitted after the game. “But it was one we had to grind out and sometimes you’ve got to do that… thankfully we did.” Stajcic’s side will look to build on last weekend’s elusive victory when they host the Newcastle Jets at CommBank Stadium this Saturday evening.

The Sydney Thunder taste a rare BBL win.

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Training resumes for Panthers RUGBY LEAGUE: The entire Penrith Panthers NRL squad has returned to training following the Christmas and New Year break. Captains Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo were among the big names to return to pre-season training, which also included Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, Lindsay Smith, Liam Martin, Moses Leota and Isaiah Papali’i. The players were put through their paces in very hot conditions, with local temperatures reaching the high 30s. The Panthers will play two pre-season trial games next month, the first against the North Queensland Cowboys on February 13 in Mackay and the second against the Wests Tigers on February 20 at Leichhardt Oval. The games kick off at 8pm and 8.10pm respectively and will be live on Fox League.

AFL: GWS Giants defender Lachie Ash has capped off a starring breakout 2025 campaign by being named to represent Victoria in the 2026 AAMI Origin game. Ash is among the latest players selected to take part in the highly anticipated Origin clash which will see Victoria and WA do battle at Optus Stadium on Saturday, February 14. One of the league’s most improved players over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Ash’s selection comes after a 2025 season in which he took his game to even greater heights and was named to his maiden All-Australian squad.

Kangaroos skipper Isaah Yeo has returned to pre-season training.

Hudson said. FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed that defender Gab Cleur will depart the club as he steps away from professional football to further pursue his education and focus on his future career as a psychologist, alongside prioritising family life. Cleur joined the Wanderers in 2022, quickly becoming a valued member of the squad. Over his time at the Red & Black, he made 60 appearances across the A-League Men’s competition contributing with his work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to the club’s values. The club thanked Cleur for his dedication during his time in western Sydney and wishes him every success as he embarks on the next chapter.

The Wanderers fell to Perth 3-1.

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FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers A-League Women’s team were unable to halt Perth Glory’s strong run of form, falling 3-1 last Saturday night at Sam Kerr Football Centre. Western Sydney will now turn their attention to a home clash against the Brisbane Roar this Friday at Wanderers Football Park, as they look to convert improved performances into points. CRICKET: Following the Christmas and New Year break, Penrith will return to the pitch this weekend, starting with a Round 12 One-Day match against St George at Howell Oval on Saturday. Prior to the break, Penrith went down to Hawkesbury in Round 11 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a One-Day match at Bensons Lane, Hawkesbury won the toss and elected to bowl. Penrith struggled with the bat, with three of their opening four batsmen out for ducks. The visitors managed to recover to post 9/124. Bowler Liam Doddrell top scored with 28. When Hawkesbury hit the crease, they reached Penrith’s target with five wickets in hand. Isaac Nicholls took 2/25. Penrith currently sit in last place on the Belvidere Cup ladder. CRICKET: Penrith’s first grade women’s team have returned from the Christmas and New Year break with a rain affected loss to Gordon in Round 4 of the Ruth Preddy Cup.

Giants star Lachie Ash. BASKETBALL: Penrith Basketball’s 3x3 Hustle is fast approaching, with registrations still open. It will be held on Wednesday, January 28 at Western Sydney University’s Kingswood Campus from 9am to 5.30pm. The age groups include 10s, 12s, 14s, 16s and 18s. To register a team, visit https://shorturl.at/uFLRe. 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.

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FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have announced a three-year extension of their longstanding partnership with Western Sydney University with the collaboration set to continue through to the end of the 2027/28 season. Originally formed during the club’s 2013/14 campaign, the partnership has grown into one of the most impactful relationships in Australian football, underpinned by a shared commitment to opportunity, education, and the western Sydney community. As part of the renewal agreement, Western Sydney University will continue its support of the Wanderers’ A-League Women’s team, while further strengthening their role as the Major Partner of the Wanderers Girls Academy, reinforcing a joint commitment to the development of female footballers both on and off the pitch. The partnership also places a strong emphasis on providing students with meaningful, real-world experiences, including internship opportunities across the football club, planned education days, and access to scholarships that support academic and professional growth. Western Sydney University will continue to deliver one of the club’s most significant community ticketing initiatives, providing free tickets to students for every single Western Sydney Wanderers home match at CommBank Stadium. The program has played a vital role in engaging young people with the club, driving attendance, and fostering a strong connection between students and football in western Sydney. Western Sydney Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson said the extension reflects the strength and shared values of the partnership. “Our relationship with Western Sydney University is one of the longest-standing and most meaningful partnerships in Australian football, built on a shared commitment to opportunity, education and the people of western Sydney,”

Playing in a One-Day match at Howell Oval, Gordon won the toss and elected to bat. The visitors posted 7/363 after 50 overs. Elise Noble took 2/51. When Penrith hit the crease, they managed 2/77 before afternoon rain swept through the area. As a result, the DLS rule was activated, which resulted in a Penrith loss. The fifth-placed Lady Cats will travel to Harold Fraser Reserve this Sunday to battle St George-Sutherland at 10am.

SPORT

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JACK’S BACK! NATHAN TAYLOR

n his final game as a Panther in 2023, Jack Cogger played a pivotal role when he came onto the Accor Stadium pitch to replace an injured Jarome Luai 10 minutes into the second half. While Nathan Cleary will forever be remembered for 18 minutes of sheer brilliance to win Penrith it's third consecutive NRL title, Cogger is also regarded as a Grand Final hero from that memorable October evening. Now, after two rollercoaster years at Newcastle, the 28-year-old returns to the Panthers to try and make even more happy memories. “It feels really good coming back,” Cogger told the Weekender. “There’s a lot of familiar faces still around in the coaching staff and a lot of new faces in the playing group, until the older boys get back to training. “I have felt the love since returning and putting the gear back on. It’s been good to reconnect with people at

the club but also the community.” Cogger left Penrith after a single season and returned to the Knights where he began his rugby league career. The Toukley Hawks junior was two years into a three-year deal before the opportunity to return to the foot of the Mountains caught his attention. “When I left Penrith there was a lot of different circumstances,” Cogger said. “I never thought I’d get the opportunity to return here. I thought I’d be at Newcastle forever, but it was late last year that the opportunity arose to come back, and I was really keen to do so. “I left here in 2023 on a really good note and on really good terms and I think that made it easier when the chance to come back popped up.” Cogger played 38 games during his second stint with the Knights, however with then coach Adam O’Brien fighting for his job, the club fell into a heap and finished with the wooden spoon. Cogger said he always felt “valued” at the Panthers and being asked to return – this time on a sweet three-year deal – was one of the most special feelings of his life. “Being asked to come back here will probably be one of the highlights of my career, that you can leave a club with a good culture and a successful club for that matter and, a few years later, they wouldn’t mind having you back,” he said. Story continues on » p. 69

Jack Cogger. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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