Western Weekender June 12 2025

WHY I’M LEAVING

Brian Fletcher will dust off his golf clubs when he ends his tenure as Panthers Group CEO early next year.

The powerful club boss announced last weekend that he plans to stand down from Panthers in the first quarter of 2026.

The Weekender can confirm his final day will be March 2 – coinciding with his 10-year anniversary of being appointed CEO.

“On Christmas Day I’ll be 72 years of age and I’ve always had in the back of my mind and I’ve always said that people in this position can stay too long because you’re well paid and it’s a good position, and I weighed all that up,”

Fletcher told the Weekender

“I travel in and out from the city every day and it’s just the ideal time for me after talking to my wife and my two daughters to spend a bit of time playing golf – which I haven’t done over the years because I’ve been a CEO in two positions for 36 years.

“72 is just the right age and 10 years is right. I realistically only left Hawkesbury Race Club to come here for four years – I said to (former Chairman) Dave O’Neill that I’d do the job for four years and that’ll see me out.

“We’ve had a bit of success since then. I feel very comfortable with the decision and I’m looking forward to moving in to the next chapter of my life.”

Fletcher joined the Panthers Board in 2010 and became CEO in March 2016 after a stint as Chairman.

He lists his highlights as the opening of the Panthers Rugby League Academy, the new $25 million multi-deck car park and the opening of the $120 million Pullman Hotel and Western Sydney Convention Centre.

Brian Fletcher.

TROY DODDS

+ The Flower Shop + Elton Chong + Theo’s Ro oftop Bar + Mr Watkins + Chechos

+ Pinot & Picass o + Henri Marc + Harry Hartog + Tins & Wo od + High St Dep ot + Berry on

Londonderry MP takes immediate leave for treatment

TROY DODDS

Deputy Premier and Londonderry MP Prue Car has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

She will take immediate leave from her roles while she undergoes treatment.

It is the second time Car has battled cancer after successfully overcoming kidney cancer three years ago.

“Thankfully, because the cancer was caught early, my doctors are optimistic about my recovery – and so am I. I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again. Testing has confirmed this is unrelated to my previous diagnosis,” Car said in a statement on Tuesday.

“I look forward to returning to the role I’ve cherished since our government took office in March 2023 – a role I absolutely love.”

Courtney Houssos will temporarily take over as Minister for Education and Early Learning and the Minister for Western Sydney.

“To the wonderful constituents I represent in Londonderry, my office doors are always open to assist you with anything you need,” Car said.

“Breast cancer screenings are vital for early detection and treatment, and I strongly encourage all women to stay up to date with their checks. I am extremely grateful for early detection and to the incredible people who work in the NSW Health system. They are nothing short of extraordinary.”

Premier Chris Minns said Car was a “fighter” and she would be supported through her treatment.

“I fully support her decision to take the time she needs to focus on her health and recovery, and I know she will be supported by expert care and the love of her family, friends and colleagues,” he said.

“I also echo her important message about early detection and encourage everyone to stay on top of their health checks.”

Car spoke about her previous cancer battle with the Weekender in March, admitting worry was never far away.

“It does play on my mind. Every time you have to go for your scan… especially given I didn’t think it was that to start with. Every time you get a migraine or really tired, which is just from work, you get a bit scared, but a lot of people have that – scan anxiety, they call it,” she said.

Prue Car has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Time to review Honours system

I see the perennially butt-hurt are devastated that former Prime Minister Scott Morrison was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) as part of the King’s Birthday Honours on Monday.

Sydney Morning Herald columnist Jenna Price was particularly forthright in her disgust, declaring “news of Morrison’s honour devastated me”.

“The best thing Morrison could have done would have been to follow in Paul Keating’s footsteps. Just say no,” she wrote.

Whether Morrison deserves the honour or not is probably a subjective debate at the end of the day.

Morrison’s nod made particular mention of the COVID-19 pandemic and his handling of the crisis. It’s a deserved recognition, scoffed at by those who look at Australia’s response to the pandemic with 20-20 vision.

To suggest Morrison didn’t do his best during this period would be a fallacy. The countless hours put in, the extraordinary economic approach that saved businesses and jobs, implementing a National Cabinet and shutting Australia’s borders early were all strong responses and displays of leadership.

But Morrison’s tenure was also littered with poor decisions and serious missteps.

No Prime Minister is perfect, and yet every one of them to serve since the Honours system was introduced (except Keating, who declined the honour), has had the letters OAM added to the end of their name.

Like him or not, Morrison ascended to the highest political office in the country and served his nation during a difficult time – the honour fits within the system.

And there’s your issue, perhaps: the system.

These Honours, handed out on Australia Day and the King’s Birthday each year, have always been a little odd.

In a lot of cases people are honoured simply for doing the jobs they chose to do, and are well paid for.

I’d argue politicians should never have been included in the list. The significant subjectivity around what they do, and the reality that the results of their decisions

INDEX

while in office are often not known and felt for years down the track, should probably exclude them from inclusion.

Playing the man and not the system in the case of Scott Morrison is unfair, however.

But the system does indeed need an overhaul. I’m not convinced many of the current recipients meet the current criteria regardless.

Chapter closes at Panthers

Brian Fletcher’s decision to depart as Panthers Group CEO in the first quarter of next year is likely to produce a domino effect at the club.

A Board election will be held early next year, around the same time Fletcher departs. There is already rumblings of potential new faces emerging to contest positions.

Whoever replaces Fletcher will lead the club through a challenging new era.

The new stadium across from the Leagues Club will be completed in time for the 2027 season (we hope), but the team’s return to Penrith will not be without its challenges given Panthers will no longer run it.

Reliance on gaming revenue will continue to decline, and other financial challenges will likely face the club industry.

And the two biggest names at Panthers in the shape of Ivan and Nathan Cleary are off-contract at the end of 2027 and neither appear in any rush to re-sign.

There is a bit going on, no question.

Fletcher will be remembered as one of the club’s big achievers as CEO.

Nobody can take away the fact that he was at the helm of the Group when the NRL side won four consecutive Premierships.

And while Fletcher may not strap on a boot or kick a ball, there is no question the club’s support of rugby league at an executive level has been critical to the success.

That has not always been the case, as has been reported many times in the past.

There was something of a golden period there for a while with Fletcher as CEO, Dave O’Neill as Chairman and Ivan Cleary as Head Coach. Once Matt Cameron was in place, the most powerful period in Panthers history was locked in.

Fletcher was the right CEO for the right time.

He was not a stuffy board room executive. He had experience at Panthers, but was not so deep in its history that he couldn’t see the changes that needed to be made to take it forward.

From a journalist’s perspective, he was always happy to pick up the phone and tell it as it is. That probably got him into trouble a couple of times, but so be it.

An interesting couple of years is ahead at Panthers. Strap yourself in.

Shows wear out their welcome

Channel 10’s decision to axe ‘The Project’ is one that probably should have been made a few years ago now.

Along the road somewhere the show took a turn that made it a fringe news program that had stepped away from its original mantra of ‘news delivered differently’.

Indeed, by the end we knew exactly what to expect from ‘The Project’.

But its impact on Australian television shouldn’t be forgotten.

In those early days, it was almost appointment television. With 30 minute bulletins on Seven and Nine each evening and the 24-hour news cycle still in its infancy, the way ‘The Project’ unpacked stories and presented them for audiences of all types was unique and progressive.

Somewhere along the line though it got lost, as did the viewers.

And so it is with ‘Q&A’, which the ABC will apparently bring to an end as well.

It never survived the disastrous decision to move it away from Monday night a few years back and shift it to Thursday.

It was a ridiculous call to move it away from a powerful line-up of television and while the ABC saw the light eventually and moved it back, the audience had dwindled.

They say these things happen in threes, and Fox Sports has joined the party by axing its long-running ‘The Back Page’.

Again, a show that has probably outstayed its welcome and is looking a little tired these days. It’ll long be remembered though, particularly its early years.

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

“You need fresh ideas”

Outgoing CEO confident Panthers will be in good hands after his departure

Story continued from » p. 1

Fletcher also guided the club through the COVID-19 crisis, including turning Panthers into a massive vaccination clinic.

“COVID was the biggest challenge and we did really well,” he said.

“I turned the place into a vaccination centre and I was able to give all the staff half wages through that whole period... we got through that and we came out of it at the other end financially sound.

“All the staff took half of their holidays during that period and we were able to convince the Board to reinstate those holidays because we came out of COVID in such a good position.

“I was really proud that the staff benefited out of it. They could have got really hurt financially.”

Fletcher has resisted the temptation to stay on until the opening of the new Penrith Stadium in 2027.

“I’ve spoken to the Board and the Chairman on many occasions and he was always keen for me to stay until we opened the new stadium but I kept going back to Christmas Day and 72 years of age and for me that would drag along too long,” he said.

He insists the club will be in good hands no matter who replaces him next year.

“You need young, fresh ideas now,” he said.

“CEO positions these days – not many last longer than five years because you’ve got to turn them over to run the business properly.

“I can see that and I see a lot of young people inside our place that need an opportunity in life as well.

“I’m lucky. I’m financially sound and everything.”

There are challenges ahead for the next leadership era at Panthers, particularly as gaming revenue declines.

“The biggest challenge facing the club is the amount of compliance you’ve got to do and that taxes will increase – there is no risk about that,” he said.

“We’re fighting against increasing taxes at the moment but it’s inevitable that will happen. To what degree I don’t know.

“That was the whole idea of building the Pullman and the Convention Centre, to counteract that income that you may lose for compliance issues and any new taxes on poker machines.”

Fletcher is confident the new stadium will be a major success and will have a flow-on impact at Panthers.

“The main thing at the moment is to get the stadium built,” he said.

“You’ll have about 40 events a year there which will turn the Pullman Hotel and the Convention Centre into a goldmine and will get that debt down after building that.”

Fletcher will never forget being involved in four straight NRL titles, a feat that has put Panthers on the national and international sporting map and will forever go down as one of the great rugby league achievements.

“It’s been great to have played a small part in that,” Fletcher said.

“You always dream to be involved in winning one but when the football department and Ivan have delivered what they’ve done, it’s been great.”

More than the trophies, he is proud of playing a role in setting the club up for success.

“I was part of it in the tough years as well and we’ve got to the stage where we employed the best bloke in the game in Matty Cameron to take over as football CEO, and to see the success and get Ivan back... it is set up now where you cannot not be competitive in the future because the set-up is there,” he said.

“The only way you can’t be competitive is if you go away from the systems.”

Fletcher still has nine months before he cleans out his desk at Panthers and wants to leave the club in the best possible position.

He’d be keen to play a role in re-signing Ivan and Nathan Cleary to long-term deals at the club too but admits that’s probably out of his control.

“That would be great. They’re here until the end of 2027 but they’re not in any hurry to do anything – not that they don’t want to

be here, but they’ve got until the end of ’27,” he said.

“It would be nice though. I signed them both before for five years myself, and it would be nice to do that again.

“But that’s not up to me now. That’s up to Matt Cameron. He does a great job and he’ll work that out.

“Over the next nine months it’ll be about making sure whatever decisions I make are in the best interests of Panthers. I want to leave here ensuring it is financially sound.”

Fletcher paid tribute to former Chairman Dave O’Neill and current Chairman Peter Graham. He said both had given him great respect and the freedom to run the club without interference.

An announcement regarding a new CEO will be made in the near future.

Worldwide search for new CEO

The Penrith Board will leave no stone unturned in their search for a new CEO to replace Brian Fletcher when he departs the club early next year.

The club has identified several possible internal candidates but will employ a recruitment agency to search for the best candidate.

“We’ll be getting some support. There will be a recruitment agency that is helping us with this,” Panthers Chairman Peter Graham told the Weekender

“The Board and some advisors will sit down so we’re clear and are able to articulate what

it is we want in a new CEO. That’s the first step in the process.

“Once we’ve done that we’ll advertise and there will be a shortlist. There will be a Board sub-committee to review the short listing and when we get it down to two or three, the entire Board will become involved in a selection process.”

Fletcher himself has confirmed he will have no role in the recruitment of a CEO and wants to remain at arm’s length of any decision.

“We want to be sure the person we do select is going to take on the challenges of the next 10 years with Panthers and give that confidence and continuity,” Graham said.

“There are certainly suitable applicants

within the organisation, the only question is level of suitability in comparison to others who might apply.”

Appointing a new CEO would clear up any conflict between the Group and Rugby League roles, with Matt Cameron to focus solely on managing the rugby league club and a new CEO to focus on the operations of the club.

Fletcher held dual roles for some time so there was always some overlap in his duties.

“We’ll be clear about that. It’s very clearly a job where the focus is on the five clubs and the hotel,” Graham said.

The role is expected to be advertised in the coming weeks, with the successful candidate to start in 2026.

Panthers Group CEO Brian Fletcher is departing the club next year.

Panthers Chairman Peter Graham.

TROY DODDS

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Kingswood: Prolific shoplifter caught

A Cranebrook man will front court next week, charged over a string of shoplifting offences.

Between March 2025 and April 2025, numerous shoplifting offences occurred within the suburbs of Penrith, Werrington, St Clair, St Marys, Marsden Park, Rooty Hill and Mt Druitt.

At the time of the offences, police were unable to identify the man responsible.

On Thursday, June 5 police were patrolling the Great Western Highway in Kingswood and saw the man depicted in images from the shoplifting incidents. Police approached the man and had a conversation with him.

The man gave police a name, which they could not find on the police computer system. Then without warning, the man ran off. Police chased the man while calling for the dog unit to attend. Once the dog unit arrived, the man was apprehended.

Police again asked the man for his name to which he provided the correct details. The 29-year-old Cranebrook man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, June 20.

Glenmore Park: Car stop leads to house search warrant

At 5.15pm on Wednesday, June 4 police were patrolling Glenmore Ridge Drive in Glenmore Park when they stopped a black Ford Ranger.

Police had a conversation with the driver, a 25-year-old Glenmore Park man. The man’s car was searched, and police found an expandable baton in the driver’s door storage compartment.

The 25-year-old was searched, and police found two phones on him.

The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station.

A search warrant was obtained to search the man’s home address. As the premises was searched, police found a pair of knuckle dusters, cannabis and cocaine.

The 25-year-old will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, July 31.

Penrith: Man banned from grocery store after being caught stealing

At 1.35pm on Thursday, June 5 police were patrolling a major shopping centre on High Street in Penrith when they were alerted about a theft that had occurred in a major grocery store nearby.

Police took down a description of the man

believed to be involved and began patrols to try and locate him.

At 4.30pm, police located the 37-year-old Sanctuary Point man.

He was arrested, charged and issued with an indefinite banning notice from the grocery store.

The 37-year-old will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, July 10.

Penrith: 87-year-old woman left frightened after random attack

At 8.40am on Saturday, June 7 an 87-yearold woman was driving her car on Lethbridge Street in Penrith.

She made a left hand turn through a roundabout onto Evan Street when a 27-year-old Penrith man stepped out onto the road and in front of her car.

The 87-year-old had to quickly stop the car in the road.

The 27-year-old man put his hands on the bonnet of the woman’s car. The 27-year-old then threw an open bottle of red wine at the windscreen causing it to smash.

The 27-year-old’s actions caused the 87-year-old woman to become scared before driving off and calling police.

Police arrived and found the 27-year-old sitting on the footpath, holding the neck of the smashed bottle of red wine with a laceration on his hand. The man was assessed by Ambulance officers before he was charged.

The man will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, July 17.

Kingswood: Woman urinates on footpath

At 7pm on Saturday, June 7 a 47-year-old Shalvey woman was being discharged from a unit in Nepean Hospital.

When the woman was leaving the hospital, she began to verbally fight with another patient.

A nurse has heard the raised voices and went to see what was happening. The 47-yearold then began to verbally abuse the nurse and throw food and other objects at her.

Security was called and attended. As the security officer was attempting to calm the 47-year-old down and escort her from the hospital, the woman struck the security officer several times.

When they made it to the footpath outside of the hospital grounds, the woman pulled her pants down and urinated on the footpath.

Police were contacted and the woman presented herself to Penrith Police Station where she was charged. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, June 19.

BUYING A BUSINESS? TIPS AND HINTS

If you are buying a business, you need to conduct thorough legal, financial and other due diligence. You should engage experts to help you, like a lawyer, accountant, finance broker and financial advisor, depending on the nature of your acquisition.

Here’s some tips and hints about the things you need to think about before diving in.

Financial Review (an accountant or financial advisor can help you with this)

• Examine profit and loss statements, balance sheets, tax returns, and cash flow for at least the past 3-5 years.

• Check for debts, outstanding loans, and verify the value of assets and inventory.

• Assess the sustainability of cash flow and profitability trends – including cashflow forecasts based on the business’s past performance and how you expect to add to it.

Legal Review

• Review business structure, ownership, and registration details for things like the business name, website/domain name, contact numbers and social media handles. Ask yourself, what assets do I need to run this business? Make a list to check that these items/assets are included in the sale.

• Ensure all necessary licences, permits, and intellectual property rights are in place and transferable. What you need to look for will depend on the kind of business you are purchasing. For example, if you are buying a bar, does it have a transferable liquor license? If you’re buying a mechanic’s workshop that’s run from rented premises, does the landlord agree to transfer the lease to you and is the site DA approved?

• Review contracts with suppliers, customers, and employees. You will probably want to keep the business’s existing customers and maybe its employees, so you need to work out whether or not you need to formally assign any contracts to you or enter into new ones. The way transferring employees are treated in a business purchase can get quite technical and fiddly.

Are you buying the business/asset or the entity that owns it?

There is a difference between buying a business/asset and buying the entity (for example a company) that owns it.

Buying Shares in the Company (Entity Purchase)

• You acquire the company as a whole, including all assets, liabilities, contracts, and history.

• Pros: Simpler for continuity (contracts, employees, licences stay in place).

• Cons: You inherit all past and future liabilities, including any undisclosed or unknown issues (e.g., tax debts, lawsuits, employee claims).

• Due Diligence Focus: Extra attention to potential hidden liabilities and compliance history.

Buying the Business Assets (Business or Asset Purchase)

• You buy selected assets (e.g., equipment, stock, goodwill, contracts) and can choose which liabilities (if any) to assume.

• Pros: Greater control over what you acquire; generally, you do not inherit past liabilities unless specifically agreed.

• Cons: May need to renegotiate contracts, leases, and transfer licences; some assets or relationships may not be transferable.

• Due Diligence Focus: Ensure all key assets and contracts can be transferred, and clarify which liabilities (if any) you are taking on.

Buying a business is complex.

A common mistake is to focus too heavily on how you are going to run the business and ignore the groundwork you need to do beforehand to make sure you understand the business, learn how it operates currently and ensure that whatever agreement you have reached with the seller is documented properly.

It’s like buying a house – you wouldn’t do so without inspecting it, checking for defects, making sure you can afford mortgage repayments and doing things of that nature – the same principle applies to acquiring a business.

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Deputy Liberal Leader Natalie Ward on the ground in key state battleground Libs want Penrith back

High Street was bustling as NSW Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party Natalie Ward visited Penrith on Tuesday.

She had a busy day: meeting with Penrith City Council, visiting Mulgoa Road to see firsthand the congestion that impacts Penrith motorists and having a meeting with key business leaders in Penrith before sitting down to chat with the Weekender ahead of a packed afternoon.

This marks the beginning of many trips out west from senior NSW Liberals ahead of the 2027 State Election where they look to regain the seat of Penrith and Government alike from Labor.

The first step is naming a local candidate who will run in the coming State Election. While no names were revealed, Ward is aware of how important it is to have a candidate out in the community ahead of the election.

“We will be chasing this seat and saying to the community that we present an alternative, that we’ll be passionate about it, that we will invest in those critical projects, we already did. We have a track record of investing in them so we will do that again,” Ward said.

“We are less than two years away, so we don’t have long, and we know that. I will be here many, many more times.

“We are in the listening phase right now but we’re really keen to understand what those [community] priorities are so that our candidate understands those unequivocally and will be a local through and through.”

As a former Roads Minister and current Shadow Minister for Trans-

port and Roads, Ward knows the congestion on Mulgoa Road is a key issue for the Penrith community.

“I know what it takes to get those roads from planning, from a piece of paper to roads that have been dug and people can drive on,” Ward said.

“Sadly, I haven’t heard much from the local member, Karen McKeown, great respect to her as the elected member but I haven’t heard a lot of her advocacy about those roads.

“I know that’s what it takes for local members to be really vocal about ‘This is what our community needs with the funding of Mulgoa Road’.

“Sadly, that funding was in place when I was Roads Minister from the Federal and State governments that now with no explanation has been pulled by the Labor Government.

“That’s a tragedy because we know those two stages need to happen, we were out there this morning, and you can see the congestion.

“That money has gone missing.”

Ward met with key Penrith stakeholders including Penrith CBD Corp’s Gai Hawthorn and Mr Watkins owner Jess Jenkins to chat about issues business holders are facing in the community.

“I’m hearing about the lighting in the streetscape, the issues and the challenges around attracting people here,” Ward said.

“Jess, who owns three venues, is also really across the challenges in these economic times. So, it’s really important for me to meet face to face, have a chat with people but also understand so I can take that back to Macquarie Street to the State Government.”

“It’s easy to talk about a nighttime economy but you’ve got to actually implement and get those barriers out of the way like the DAs, like the liquor licensing and like the delays.”

Solar plays key part in our future

The average cost of a monthly electricity bill in Penrith is $152, with the average yearly cost sitting at $1,827.

There’s no doubt that Penrith and Australia alike are suffering from a cost-of-living crisis where everyday necessities, like electricity, are rising faster than the consumer can afford.

Right now, roughly 30 per cent of Penrith’s electricity usage is being run by solar.

Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect which can be used to run a home.

Nepean Solar Solutions Owner Jim Hill explained that by using solar panels to fuel a home it can significantly reduce the pinch when it comes the cost of energy.

“The cost-of-living crisis is exacerbated by the increasing cost of energy, and it is one of those things you are paying for after you have used it,” Hill explained.

“It’s like going to the bowser and filling up with a blindfold on and not knowing how much the fuel is going to cost or how much you’ve used.

“It’s the same with [electricity], it’s one of those things you get a bill for your electricity three months after you’ve used it and you have no idea what you’ve done, it’s automatically deducted from your account.

“Where solar at least takes whatever you don’t use your generation for as the only part that is exposed to the market.

“If you can cover 80 or 70 per cent of your own usage, you are only going to be exposed to that 20 or 30 percent with the increasing cost.” Solar is considered better for

the environment as opposed to traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources, but it needs a widespread application to successfully work in a place like Penrith.

This would mean the roofs of houses, businesses and factories across the suburbs of Penrith would all need to be covered in solar panels to reduce the environmental impact of widespread energy consumption.

While installing solar is becoming a more popular choice for consumers, not everyone has the option like renters and businesses with shared roof spaces.

Hill believes for the time being different forms of energy working in tandem is the way to go until a completely renewable system can be reliably implemented.

“Solar does have its limitations,” Hill said.

“I personally think we should be exploring all ways of generating

electricity whether that’s continuing coal for some time until we can come into a more renewable energy sector such as solar, gas and hydro and if nuclear works out to be part of that mix we need to start looking at

that as well. We need to be looking at every way of producing electricity to make it cheaper for us to operate.”

Watch our interview with Nepean Solar Solutions Owner Jim Hill on YouTube now.

Natalie Ward.

Natalie Ward chats with journalist Emily Chate. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Jim Hill of Nepean Solar Solutions. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Contact Us

Administration

Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

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

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at

Services 4732 7777

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

Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

Monday 23 June 2025 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee Meeting)

Monday 30 June 2025 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting)

Online via

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Field and car park drainage upgrades at The Kingsway in Werrington are now complete. Fields 15–18 have been resurfaced with Couch grass, delivering a higher quality and more consistent playing surface.

A new drainage swale has also been installed in the car park to resilience. These upgrades improve the overall functionality of sooner after wet weather. This project is funded by Council and the NSW Government through The Essential Community Sports Asset Program.

For more information go to

● from 8am–12pm at Mountain View Reserve.

Join our Bushcare team and Mark Fuller from Avianation for a guided walk and talk around the reserve, identifying birds, weeding, and a yummy breakfast. Spots are limited so bookings are essential.

Find out more at

● Penrith City Council is collaborating with neighbouring councils in The Parks Strategic Waste Alliance to explore the desire for resource recovery and waste avoidance services in our region. This includes services like a repair café, a library of things and a tip shop. These services encourage community reuse, repair and resource sharing, helping to reduce your impact on the environment and save you money. We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Complete the short survey before midnight on Monday 30 June 2025 and you could win one of 4 x $100 gift cards (T&Cs apply).

To learn more and complete survey visit:

● Are you a creative artist looking to build skills in working with communities? Join us at the From Concept to Pitch Workshop project proposals for grant submissions.

Register now to reserve your FREE spot for the Concept to Pitch Workshop in the Magnetic Places Artist Development Series. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enhance your artistic creativity!

When: Tuesday 17 June, 5–7pm

Where: St Marys Community Centre, Meeting Room 1 (access via Collins or Swanston Streets, St Marys)

● First Nations Cultural Awareness for community organisations? Join us for a practical workshop exploring culturally safe practice. Delivered by Bamara, this training offers the chance to strengthen your communication and collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Penrith community.

When: Friday 20 June, 9.30am–12pm

Where: Astina Suites

Free – registrations essential and light morning tea provided. Gain practical tools, explore real-life scenarios, and collaborate on culturally safe strategies for stronger, more respectful engagement. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet peers and elevate inclusive practice.

Visit:

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your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

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

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LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The historic, perfect looking dwelling is located at John Cram Place, near St Nicholas of Myra Church, in the Penrith CBD.

Forever in our hearts

Penrith parents Michael and Jo-ann Morris have been honoured with Order of Australia Medals (OAM) this King’s Birthday for their extraordinary service to the community through charitable organisations.

Among other things they have been honoured for their work with the Samuel Morris Foundation, first founded in 2007 after their beloved two-year-old son Samuel suffered a non-fatal drowning at their home in April of 2006.

The Weekender followed Samuel’s story extensively over the years and it was felt deeply within the Penrith community.

As a result of the accident Samuel experienced a severe Hypoxic Brain Injury and was left with a range of severe disabilities before he passed away in February of 2014.

Michael was honoured to receive the OAM, saying it shows how many people Samuel’s story touched.

“It’s a deep sense of pride in acknowledging the work that’s being done but it’s a very reflective period of time about the loss for our family,” Michael said.

“It’s that reminder of how much Samuel’s life mattered and how much his short years have impacted so many people.”

Jo-ann was shocked when she received

the news about her and her husband’s OAM, saying it was a bittersweet moment.

“It’s hard to explain how happy that you’ve

got something like that but so sad because of the reason why you’ve got that,” Jo-ann said.

“But it’s keeping Samuel’s legacy alive as

well. I still get phone calls and request for help, whether that’s for support emotionally or whether that is on what they can do for their child that have suffered a non-fatal drowning.”

Outside of the Samuel Morris Foundation’s water safety advocacy, Michael is the Assistant Commissioner of Metropolitan Operations for Fire and Rescue NSW and has been in the service since 1990.

“It has been very nice at work with all the conversation with everyone!” Michael said.

“There is a lot of people at work who had no idea around that other side and have just seen me with my professional hat on and not the other things.”

The couple have no idea who nominated them for the honour but send whoever it was a message of thanks.

“It’s very strange not knowing who nominated us, but it is also very nice,” Jo-ann told the Weekender

“We’re just two parents that wanted this to not happen to other families because we know the hardships and we know what the child goes through and what the siblings of the child who has the non-fatal drowning go through.

“For us to receive this award I just did not even think, it’s just a shock!”

Recipients will attend a ceremony at NSW Government House in the coming months to receive the insignia of their honour.

Michael and Jo-Ann Morris with their son Samuel.

What an honour: Locals

From educators to volunteers, people from all walks of life have been recognised

Acollection of Penrith residents and advocates have been celebrated as part of the King’s Birthday Honours, highlighting their commitment to their careers and the community.

Cheryl Goh, June Roots, Lance Miller and Jennifer Westacott AO have all been given the nod, acknowledging their significant contributions to the community.

Goh will receive the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to the Indigenous community of Sydney and to education.

A proud Dharug woman, Goh is currently a Director at Muru Mittigar, is a member of the Dharug Ngurra Aboriginal Corporation and on the Panel of Dharug-led Design with Blacktown Council.

“I don’t even know if I can say how it feels! I’m overjoyed. It’s an amazing thing to receive,” Goh said.

“I’m a Dharug woman. I live on country, I’ve always worked on country, I was born on country, I’ve never left.

“I’m in my 70s now and for me I’m working for my old people and for the young ones that are going to be coming into the future, we have to try and maintain credibility within our community, but we’ve also got to try to maintain grounding, and I’m talking in fact ground.”

Roots will receive the OAM for her service to the community of Penrith.

She is a life member of the Luddenham Agricultural, Horticultural and Industrial Society and founded the Kitchen and the Ladies Auxiliary within the society in the 1960s. Roots is also a former President of the Luddenham Public School Parents and Citizens as well as doing a lot of work with the Luddenham Uniting Church and Holy Family Knitting Ladies.

Penrith resident Lance Miller will be receiving an Emergency Services Medal for distinguished services as a member of an Australian emergency service.

Miller joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol, now Marine Rescue NSW, in 1975 at 22-years-old, he then spent the next five decades volunteering his time to the service.

“It’s a humbling experience to receive this medal. I never set out expecting recognition –I’ve just always believed in showing up, doing the job and supporting the team,” Miller said.

“This award really reflects the hard work of everyone in Marine Rescue NSW. I might be the one receiving the medal, but I’ve always worked alongside a great crew of volunteers.

“It’s a team effort every single time we’re out on the water.”

Throughout his time in the service Miller has led numerous complex and challenging search and rescue operations, including traumatic incidents with Sydney Harbour, off

Cheryl Goh has been honoured with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM).

Sydney Heads and far offshore. He is proud of the work he’s done.

“I supposed the one thing I’ve been consistent about is showing up – whether it was from Cabramatta or Penrith, distance was never an excuse. I joined to learn, stayed because of the friends I made, and kept coming back because there’s always someone who needs help,” Miller said.

He encourages others to consider volunteering if they have time.

“Volunteering is a great thing. Whether you’re young and learning or retired and passing on experience, there’s something special about giving your time to help others,” he said.

“I’d encourage anyone thinking about it to jump in. For me, the reward has always been helping someone in distress or training a new crew member and watching them grow into a confident skipper. That’s what keeps you going.”

Jennifer Westacott AO will receive a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for her eminent service to business, to tertiary education administration, to the mental health sector and to the community.

Currently the Chair of the Western City and Aerotropolis Authority, Westacott is also the Chancellor at Western Sydney University.

Recipients will attend a ceremony at NSW Government House in the coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

Lance Miller has been honoured with the Emergency Services Medal.

Noisy debate over flights

Flight paths authorised, but concerns over aircraft noise remain for Penrith

The flight paths for the incoming Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) have been authorised with a series of changes aimed to save parts of Penrith from overnight noise after over 8,000 submissions were received on the draft plans.

The Blue Mountains and Wallacia are set to benefit the most from the changes made to the flight paths, which were officially unveiled by Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King last week.

The flight paths were first revealed in 2023 and following 8,400 submissions from the community, King said the changes were made to help minimise aircraft noise, some of which relate to night-time operations.

“This is a long-term project – air traffic won’t pick up for some time, but these conditions, along with relevant environmental requirements, mean that we are balancing the growth of the airport, with the needs of the communities on the ground,” King said.

One of the changes will be a prioritisation of reciprocal runway operations (RRO) as the default operating mode at night, which is a flight path design where planes take off and land from the same direction. In the case of WSI it will happen at the south-west end of the runway.

This will also include the use of a specific ‘Noise Abatement Procedure’ which along with the RRO is expected to “achieve the overall lowest possible impact on surrounding communities, and will direct aircraft away from the Blue Mountains, Wallacia, and the most heavily populated areas of western Sydney at night” according to King.

The authorisation also sees the implementation of an environmental monitoring program overseen by airport lesee company WSA Co to monitor the impacts of aircraft noise within and adjacent to the Greater Blue Mountains Area.

“This is an important step to ensure the protection of the Greater Blue Mountains Area’s natural and cultural significance. It

is in addition to the community noise monitoring program that will be undertaken by Airservices, who will soon begin consultation with local communities on the location of noise monitors,” King said.

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh has accused King of purposefully waiting until after the Federal Election to authorise the flight paths, which still have a heavy impact on her community.

forum will be established to monitor and resolve aircraft noise and flight path issues during the early years of operation, something McIntosh said is the “bare minimum”.

“The Minister’s media release notes a community engagement forum will be established to review flight path and noise issues during the early years of operation,” McIntosh said.

“This is standard and the very least the

by King but acknowledged there will still be significant impact on the residents in her electorate.

“I acknowledge the Minister’s statement that the measures announced today represent the most comprehensive of their kind for any airspace development in Australia,” Templeman said.

“However, I remain of the view that I have long held, that there will be profound impacts on my community as a consequence of the WSI flight paths.

“I am committed to fighting for fairness for Macquarie.

“Between now and when the airport opens, I will continue to seek opportunities for improvements to these flight paths.

“The reality is that our community is going to be the most impacted under Labor’s flight paths, including Luddenham and Mulgoa with altitudes as low as 750 feet and noise levels as high as 90 decibels at Twin Creeks,” McIntosh said.

“This is in contrast to the Labor held seat of Macquarie which has benefited from changes to the draft flight paths.” King confirmed a community engagement

government can do. I have and always will support Western Sydney Airport – for the jobs and economic opportunities it will bring for our region, however I will also always fight for fair and balanced flight paths for our community.

“What the Minister announced today is neither of these.”

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman welcomed the changes made

“And once the planes begin flying next year, I will be standing side by side with my community as we continue our fight for a fair deal.”

The Residents Against Western Sydney Airport (RAWSA) action group issued a statement following the release of the flight paths, labelling them a “window dressing”.

“RAWSA is appalled with the Albanese Government’s flight path announcement that amounts to nothing more than window dressing,” the statement said.

“No change for 24/7 over flight intrusion into the lives of Blue Mountains and western Sydney residents and scant disregard for the World Heritage values of the listed Blue Mountains national parks that they should be protecting, not attacking.

“RAWSA doesn’t accept this arrogant disregard and calls on Susan Templeman MP to demand better of her parliamentary colleagues and advocate for a fairer long-term operating plan that takes into account the whole of Sydney airspace and includes the same protections for Blue Mountains and the west, as for Sydney, with a curfew and hourly flight caps.”

The preliminary airspace and flight paths are outlined in the final EIS, which can continue to be viewed at www.wsiflightpaths. gov.au.

Have your say: Share your thoughts to news@westernweekender.com.au.

Minister Catherine King (third from left) visited WSI last week to announce the completion of the runway.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Minister Catherine King last week. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

Roadwork ahead

Motorists warned of changes at Luddenham Road

Major work is ramping up on the intersection of Mamre Road and Luddenham Road.

The upgrade will turn the intersection into a multiple lane, traffic light intersection to improve safety and traffic flow.

Transport for NSW will divert Luddenham Road traffic onto Old Luddenham Road from Friday, June 20 in order to rebuild the intersection.

Luddenham Road will be closed in the small section between Old Luddenham Road and Mamre Road until early next year.

Road users can continue to access Mamre Road from Old Luddenham Road.

The temporary intersection will include dedicated lanes for vehicles turning left and right to maintain safety and minimise traffic congestion.

As part of the temporary change, there will be a reduced speed limit from 60km/h to 40km/h on approach to Old

Man in fatal crash still behind bars

A man accused of leaving a woman for dead after hitting her with his car on a busy Penrith street remains behind bars.

20-year-old Lasaro Tavai was arrested late last Friday night, just hours after police had released CCTV footage of the incident and appealed for public help.

About 5.30pm last Thursday, emergency services were called to Macquarie Avenue, Penrith, following reports a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle before it drove away from the scene without stopping.

The woman – named as Yaping Ren, aged in her 60s – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, she could not be revived.

Police released confronting footage of the incident in an effort to prompt information from the public.

Tavai was arrested about 10.40pm on Friday at a home on Taloma Street, Penrith.

Police allege he was disqualified from driving and behind the wheel of an unregistered car when the incident happened.

He was taken to St Marys Police Station where he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death-drive manner dangerous, negligent driving (occasioning death), fail to stop and assist after impact cause death, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, and use unregistered registrable Class A motor vehicle on road.

He did not apply for bail when his case was mentioned in court last weekend and he remains behind bars.

He will appear in court again this Friday, this time in Penrith.

Other work in the area includes

permitting.

– Troy Dodds

Luddenham Road, which will remain in place until early 2026. Road users are advised to take care and follow the direction of traffic control, signs and speed limits.

the Mamre Road Stage 1 project, which will see road widening with separated lanes and new drainage between the M4 and Erskine Park Road. Mamre Road Stage 1 is expected to be completed in 2028.

Mamre Road upgrade Stage 2 planning work is also currently underway.

Construction on Mamre Road Stage 2 is due to begin in 2027 and be complete in 2029, weather

The intersection of Mamre Road and Luddenham Road is being upgraded.

The popular garden flower that experts say should be banned

EMILY CHATE

New research has revealed that a garden flower is far more destructive than originally thought, with calls to ban the popular plant.

The Invasive Species Council has issued a warning that gazanias, a brightly coloured daisy native to South Africa still being sold in Australian nurseries, poses a bigger threat to native landscapes and farms than previously understood as new research shows it has the potential to spread much further and more destructively than previously realised.

“Gazanias are the perfect example of an escaped invasive garden plant that needs to be banned from sale,” Invasive Special Council Advocacy Manager, Imogen Ebsworth said.

A new La Trobe University study has found gazania seeds are capable of thriving in almost any Australian environment.

The study tested gazania seeds collected from across southern Australia and found they could germinate under extreme heat, cold, drought, salinity and even deep burial.

Ebsworth and the Invasive Species Council are calling on governments and the nursery industry across Australia to ban the plant.

“They are already banned in South Australia but it’s clear we need them pulled nationally.

I urge the nursery industry to act on this new

evidence and stop selling it,” Ebsworth said.

“We are calling on Australia’s governments to prioritise action on stronger national coordinated regulation to prevent garden plants from being sold and escaping into the bush.”

First imported to Australia in the 1950s and 1970s as a low-maintenance garden plant, gazanias have spread through garden waste, lawn clippings and seed dispersal.

“Escaped garden plants are the primary source of new weeds in Australia. An incredible three-quarters of all listed weeds started out as ornamentals. That’s not a Bunnings

problem or a rogue nursery problem – it’s a regulatory failure,” Ebsworth said.

“To date, self-regulation has failed. We are relying on everyday Australians to either have a botany degree or realise they need to research legally sold plants to find out if they are a weed.

“That’s a system designed to fail.”

Weeds have been estimated to cost Australia over $5 billion a year in agricultural and environmental damage.

“Currently, more than 30,000 plant species have been imported into Australia for

gardening, but fewer than a quarter have been assessed nationally for their weed risk,” Ebsworth said.

“Some of our worst invasives – like lantana and blackberry – were once common garden plants.

“We’ve spent decades relying mainly on self-regulation, which just doesn’t work. You can still legally buy plants that are banned in neighbouring states or overseas.

“Unless governments act, we’ll keep selling the next lantana, the next gazania, straight into our backyards and bushland.”

Safer options: Imogen Ebsworth in a nursery.

Wild gazanias.

More than just a cuppa

How a local charity program is ensuring elderly locals aren’t forgotten

ALLY HALL

There’s something therapeutic about grabbing coffee with a friend and debriefing. That’s why Nepean Food Services started the Share a Cuppa program.

The award-winning program sees volunteers call into the homes of elderly locals to have a cuppa and a chat.

Volunteer Allan Jones said this fills a gap in the services offered by the charity.

“With the bus, we take people on outings… Share a Cuppa was a bit of a niche that we’ve picked up for people who can’t get to those things because of various mobility issues or other circumstances,” Jones explained.

“We have around 14 volunteers and there’s 30 clients that we go and see.

“We’re looking to expand because from what we’re hearing, there’s a need for it in our community.”

One of the residents Jones visits is 96-yearold Charles Oxenham, a former Penrith Fire Chief and original member of the Penrith Golf Club.

The pair went on an exciting excursion last week for a special treat.

“I took him out to Penrith Golf Course the other day, and when we got there the club professional Jonathon Green had organised a cart for me to take Charles around to show him all the work they’d done on the course

with new paths and bunkers,” Jones shared. The 96-year-old got to check out his old stomping grounds and even got to speak to some old friends.

“When we got there, we realised there was a wake on, and it was for one of the long-time members who passed away,” Jones recounted.

“Charles knew most of the people there

because they were from a bygone era, so there was a bit of serendipity in the sense that all these people were here on a Tuesday, and he knew a lot of them.

“He was sitting there, and people were coming up because they remembered him.”

76-year-old Jones has a great connection with Oxenham and also shares his time with three other clients on a fortnightly rotation.

“They’re generally elderly people who aren’t necessarily housebound but limited in their mobility,” Jones explained.

“It’s really good to have a chat and a cup of coffee.

“I take cake and we sit and talk for a couple of hours.

“It’s beneficial for them, but it’s also beneficial for me. It gives me something to look forward to each week.”

Nepean Food Services hope to enlist more volunteers to take part in the program addressing social isolation, which won the Meals on Wheels NSW Innovation Award last year.

“It’s a fairly minimal commitment, it only takes two hours and everything’s provided. You get reimbursed for the mileage of travel, and they provide tea, coffee and cake,” Jones encouraged.

For anyone who would like to get involved – from volunteers to clients – reach out to the charity at https://nepeanfoodservices.org. au/.

Charles and Allan share a cuppa on their recent outing.

Air New Zealand will fly into Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), it was confirmed this week.

The services from Auckland are the first to be supported by the State Government’s Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, which incentivises international airlines to fly into WSI ahead of its opening in late 2026.

“Sydney’s new and only 24-hour airport is delighted to partner with Air Zealand and the NSW Government, giving travellers more choice and flexibility and connecting two much-loved destinations,” WSI CEO Simon Hickey said.

Flights between Auckland and Western Sydney are expected to commence from mid-2027.

PRIME MINISTER INSPECTS TERMINAL

Sydney’s new 24-hour airport is one step closer to welcoming its first passengers, with major construction works across Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) now complete and the state-of-the-art terminal formally unveiled yesterday.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited the airport site yesterday to inspect the new terminal.

While major construction of the WSI terminal is complete, the fit-out of the terminal’s retail precinct and airline lounges will take place closer to the airport’s opening as commercial tenders and final contracts continue to progress over the months ahead.

Our pastry prodigy

Penrith teenager hoping to cake it away at National Champs

Penrith’s very own pastry prodigy will represent New South Wales at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane from June 12 to 14.

Sixteen-year-old Eve Lawton is one of three TAFE students in the state showcasing their trade skills at the vocational education and excellence competition. She will be alongside a beauty therapy student and an automotive technician.

“I’m very nervous, but it’s a good experience and a good way to get to know people and learn more,” said the apprentice at Cath’s Cakes.

At Nationals, Eve will face high-pressure challenges including chocolate sculptures, mousse cakes, and mystery box desserts, putting her creativity and precision to the test.

“I don’t really do chocolate showpieces here at work, it’s mainly just cakes, and everything that I’m doing in WorldSkills is new,” Eve stated.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Penrith wins Local Government Excellence Award

I am thrilled to share that Penrith City Council has been recognised for its leadership in community services.

At the 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards held last week, Council won the Community Development (population over 150,000) Award, for its ongoing commitment to strategically creating inclusive communities through our ‘One Community, Many Abilities’ project. The aim of this social marketing campaign was to promote the diversity and strengths of people with disability in Penrith. As part of this, Council worked with five residents who shared their experiences of living with visible and invisible disabilities, to inspire our broader community to help make our City more accessible and inclusive.

One of our five talents, Julian, believes “everyone has the ability to do something great” – and he’s right. Julian is an architect, and entrepreneur, who is also known for his award-winning sculpture at the 2024 Bondi Sculpture by the Sea. Julian lives with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia. This project was a direct response to the important and insightful community

“I’m quite lucky because I get to learn heaps of new techniques.” Eve is the first pastry chef in her family, and she takes after her father.

“My dad’s a chef and he used to take me into the kitchens with him when I would get the day off school,” she said.

“My uncle is a chef too, and my godparents,” Eve added, before explaining her preference for the sweeter things.

“I liked the idea of having the earlier mornings and not having to stay at work all day. I also like the sweet side a little bit more. It’s a little more to the recipe, whereas other cheffing is all to taste.”

The teenage whisking whiz has big dreams for her career, including an international stint in the future.

“I do want to travel overseas while I’m young. I want to go to Europe for pastries, that would be really cool,” Eve said.

Until then, Eve will finish her apprenticeship at Cath’s Cakes, perfecting her skills and preparing for her pastry-riddled positive future.

input that shaped the Penrith Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2022-26.

Council’s ongoing commitment is to ensure that people living with disabilities are valued for the contribution they make to our evolving City every day. We continue to collaborate with local service providers and are guided by Council’s Access Committee, that has informed our organisation since 1992.

From making our walkways more accessible and providing changerooms with adult change facilities, through to delivering playgrounds that are inclusive of children with disabilities and their families, we want Penrith to be a truly welcoming, accessible and inclusive place for everyone.

We all benefit and are stronger together when we live in a community that values inclusion.

Learn more about Council’s One Community, Many Abilities project on our YouTube channel or at penrith.city/ manyabilities.

To find out more about Council’s work in this space, visit penrith.city/diap.

CR TODD CARNEY

Mayor of Penrith

Eve Lawton. Photo: Ally Hall.

ALLY HALL

The Weekender has a special message for Connie Almazan: Feliz Cumpleaños!

The Spain-born great-great-grandmother turned 100-years-old on June 5 and celebrated with her family over the weekend at Summit Care St Marys.

She moved to Australia in 1968 and never looked back.

“We’ve only been back to Spain once because she always considered this her home,” said Connie’s daughter and namesake, Connie Willoughby.

“We left because we couldn’t survive there, and she appreciated everything here in Australia.

“The fact that she had her own home was overwhelming for her.”

One of the things she loved about her home was her garden.

“She loved the garden. She had a beautiful garden with so many roses,” Willoughby explained.

“She lived with me for the last 23 years because I looked after her when my dad passed away, and we always had vegetable patches.”

She also adores her family and always put her children first. She had five children and has eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

“She’s so sweet, she makes sure that she doesn’t harm anybody, she doesn’t want to say anything out of place, she’s always been for the kids, she always puts herself last, and even now she always has to look right,”

Willoughby told the Weekender

“Her hair has to be perfect, she doesn’t want to stand out but she has to look nice and presentable.”

And she looked lovely surrounded by flowers, family, balloons and cupcakes on Saturday as her century of life was celebrated.

Over 1,000 blankets have been knitted with love and care by a Penrith local who enjoys spending her time making cosy items for others.

83-year-old Theresa Crljenic has lived in Penrith since 1978; she spent a few years elsewhere before moving back nine years ago.

Crljenic has been crafty her whole life, often knitting for her daughter but in the

last decade has been knitting for those less fortunate.

“I’ve always knitted since my daughter was little,” Crljenic said.

“I knitted cardigans and blankets for babies. I’ve been doing it my whole life, and it is also something to do.

“Sometimes I knit, sometimes I do other things!

“I like to make everything.”

The grandmother beams with pride when talking about her family, her smile widens even further when she talks about her great grandchild that is on its way.

Crljenic also likes to make things for her friends as they become grandparents, saying pink is for girls and blue is for boys.

“Friends of mine when they’re going to be grandparents, they ask me to make baby blankets and little cardigans,” Crljenic said.

Crljenic is generous with her creations, regularly giving them away to charities around Penrith, as well as everyone who comes to visit her – including your writer.

“It makes me happy to give away the things I make to others,” Crljenic said.

“Everyone who walks in my door also walks out with something! My podiatrist, my nurse, everyone gets something.”

The Ross Hutchison Foundation, Cancer Wellness Op Shop, the Salvation Army, a Croatia Nursing Home, Anglicare, WestCare Community Services and Cardinal Stepinac Village are just some of the many places that have benefited from Crljenic’s thousands of crafty creations.

Theresa Crljenic with her latest creation. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Connie Almazan celebrates her 100th birthday with family.

EMILY CHATE

ALLY HALL

Δ Popular Sushi joint to close: Penrith’s Ichiban Sushi has announced it will close its doors on June 15. The restaurant on Riley Street opened in 2014 and fast became a favourite to many Penrith locals. Owner Agnes said the time has come to move on: “It has been an absolute pleasure to be part of

Δ Cheesiness returns: Subway Australia has brought back its Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread, available until August 3 or whilst stocks last. The bread comes with garlic spread on both sides and is topped with mozzarella cheese. Customers can customise their Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread base or choose from preset options on Subway’s Signature Menu.

Δ New restaurant at Panthers: A brand new eatery has opened inside Panthers

Δ Golden era: Macca’s has confirmed that Chicken McWings will be a permanent part of the menu moving forward. They’re available in a three-piece or five-piece pack, or as part of a meal. Two permanent dipping sauces will be available – Ranch Sauce and Spicy Buffalo Sauce.

This photograph taken in 1978 shows the corner of Riley and High Streets in Penrith.

The business front and centre is C.C. Tyre Service, which is still a prominent business in Penrith today and runs out of a premises on Batt Street in Jamisontown. Numerous businesses have operated out of the Riley and High Street location over the years, and the building façade remains relatively the same today despite significant changes around it.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

DISCOVER THE HELP YOU NEED BUSINESS

Have you ever had an idea and thought to yourself, “I wonder if this would work?”

Then you considered who would implement it, how to develop it, and the costs involved, only to give up?

But what if I told you there’s an opportunity to collaborate with a group of students who can help you transform that idea into reality, for up to 12 weeks?

This happened to me after a conversation with my husband last September, where we discussed bridging the gap between technology and small to medium enterprises (SMEs).

I casually mentioned the idea to my eldest son, who is a robotics engineer, and he connected me with the Software Studio program at the

University of Technology, Sydney.

For the past 12 weeks, since the beginning of this year, I have been engaging weekly with a team of four talented students, each Friday dedicated to brainstorming, refining, and developing my project. Although I have some experience mentoring university students, this is my first time working on a high-technology project, which can be both exciting and scary.

My vision was to create an innovative product, focused on environmental sustainability, harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and robotics. This semester, my students and I focused on developing a proof of concept since I was uncertain whether the idea would even work. Towards the end of the semester, the students presented their results.

To my surprise, they demonstrated that the concept could work and provided me with a basic prototype, which I can

continue to enhance in the next semester. This experience has saved me both time and research efforts, as we were able to leverage the skills and talents of the students while also giving them valuable real-world experience, in a business setting.

If you find yourself deciding whether to take that next step, wondering how to pivot your business or questioning whether that idea could truly make a difference, I strongly encourage you to explore the services offered by the University of Technology, Sydney. You might just discover the support you need!

Popping in Penrith’s coffee scene

What began as a hobby with a $29 popcorn machine has turned into a thriving local business for Penrith’s Joshua Vincent. Six years ago, Josh roasted his first batch of coffee beans in his kitchen, driven purely by curiosity and a love for quality coffee.

“I had heard about roasting coffee in a popcorn machine, but I was a bit sceptical about how good it would be,” Josh recalls.

“But I had a $20 voucher from The Good Guys, so I figured that I didn’t have much to lose, so I gave it a go and I was shocked at how well it actually worked! I reckon I must have roasted over 20kg of coffee beans in that little machine over two years!”

That humble beginning would soon ignite a passion – and ultimately a business – that has found its place in the heart of the local community.

After two years of home-based roasting and sharing his creations with family and friends, he built a small roasting room at the front of his garage, upgrading to a 1kg coffee roaster. It was in that space that he immersed himself in the craft, learning through hands-on experimentation that coffee roasting is as much an art as it is a science.

“I find coffee really interesting,” he said.

“It’s amazing how many different flavours you can produce by using coffee beans from different parts of the world and roasting them in a particular way to optimise their unique

flavour profiles. You get some beans that have notes of caramel and chocolate in them, which is what most people are more familiar with. But then there are other beans that actually have flavour notes like peach, dried fruits, maybe even a little bit of citrus, floral or nutty.

And it’s my job as a roaster to work out how to combine these various flavours to produce a blend that works well as a milky coffee, or as a filtered long black coffee for example.”

During the next four years roasting in the garage, Josh’s passion had evolved into a clear

vision. Convinced that he had developed something truly special, he explored the idea of turning his hobby into a business. A conversation with a local café owner about supplying roasted coffee proved to be a turning point. Realising the potential, Josh knew it was time to take the next big step. That opportunity came sooner than expected.

Paul and Bunty Grech, owners of Little House Coffee Co located on Abel Street, Jamisontown, were preparing to retire after five years of running their well-regarded local coffee brand. The timing was perfect. Josh and his wife Judith took over the business, stepping into the Penrith coffee scene with an established brand and a loyal customer base.

Today, Josh and Judith are continuing to grow Little House Coffee Co, supplying freshly roasted coffee to a growing number of home brewers and local businesses. Beyond roasting, they’re also investing in the community – offering barista training courses to help develop the next generation of coffee professionals.

With big dreams for the future, Josh envisions Little House Coffee Co becoming a household name across Penrith and beyond. While the business continues to grow, one thing remains unchanged: his dedication to roasting coffee with care, passion and purpose. Each batch tells a story – one that started with a popcorn machine, a curious mind, and a deep love for coffee.

Western Weekender

ADVERTISING WORKS

KILLEN, Anne

16/05/1933 - 05/06/2025

Late of Caddens, previously Leonay.

Loving wife of Francis “Frank” (dec).

Beloved mother of Luella, John, Mar tin and Louise and mother in-law of Mar y Lou, Lynette and Phil.

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COMPUL SORY ACQUISITION OF L AND – ROADS ACT 1993

Attention is invited to the notice published in Government Gazette No 207 of Friday, 30 May 2025 reference [NSWGG-2025-207-3] regarding the compulsory acquisition of a lease of land for road purposes at Londonderry in the Penrith City Council area and said to be in the possession of Andrew Peter Boddy (registered proprietor), Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (mortgagee) and the occupant (TfNSW Papers: SF2024/110570)

L Mcinerney

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Contact: For full details call Transport for NSW on (02) 8650 1665. L T0511 WW56358

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport

Public notice

Airports Act 1996

Notice Pursuant to Section 79 (1) of the Airports Act 1996

Western Sydney International Airport Preliminary Draft Master Plan 2025-2045

Invitation for public comments

WSA Co Limited, the operator of Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), has prepared a 2025-2045

Preliminary Draft Master Plan for WSI.

Copies of the 2025-2045 Preliminary Draft Master Plan for WSI will be available for inspection by members of the public throughout the period of more than 60 business days from Friday 6 June 2025. The 2025-2045

Preliminary Draft Master Plan for WSI can be viewed or downloaded at wsimasterplan.com.au

Alternatively, copies of the 2025-2045 Preliminary Draft Master Plan for WSI can be viewed or purchased at the office of WSA Co, Level 3, 45 Scott Street, Liverpool between 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday and the WSI Experience Centre, 100 Eaton Road, Luddenham between 10 00am and 4.00pm Monday to Wednesday and Saturday to Sunday

Members of the public are invited to make written comments on the 2025-2045 Preliminary Draft Master Plan for WSI at wsimasterplan.com.au, email to info@wsiairport.com.au (with WSI Master Plan Feedback included in the subject line) or via mail to WSI Master Plan Feedback, PO Box 397 Liverpool, NSW

Public engagement activities will be published at wsimasterplan.com.au

The closing time for receipt of submissions is 5pm Tuesday 2 September 2025. WSA Co

KEEPING THE FAITH

PHOTO SPECIAL: PAGE 31

ADVERTISEMENT

PANTHERS FANS ARE DARING TO DREAM OF A FIFTH PREMIERSHIP, AND ARE STILL SHOWING UP WITH PRIDE

MORE THAN JUST A GAME analysis

Rugby league players are modern-day heroes to many children and adults and they brighten the lives and lift the spirits of so many people especially those who are sick and in need of a boost.

Today, I’d like to tell you about two Panthers supporters whose lives were taken too soon, one a little eight-year-old boy called Tommy and his grandfather Stanley.

Little Tommy was born in February 2016 and supported the Penrith Panthers from the day he was born. With his grandfather Stanley being a crazy Panthers supporter his whole life, Tommy had no choice.

One of Tommy’s mums Amanda Adams-Bennett remembers Tommy playing football in the backyard with his older brother Lachie whilst growing up.

“One was usually Nathan Cleary and the other Brian To’o,” said Amanda.

“Tommy’s first ever shirt has Cleary’s name printed on the back.”

Along with his grandfa-

ther Stanley, who wore a Panthers shirt nearly every day, the Adams-Bennett family were enjoying the top year their favourite team were having until their whole world changed.

“On September 12 2023 Tommy was diagnosed with DIPG,” recalls Amanda.

The whole Penrith community got behind Tommy and when word reached the Panthers club, a special visit was organised to see little Tommy. Despite being on steroid treatment at the time, the smile could not be wiped from Tommy’s face.

“DIPG / DMG is a rare cancer with limited funding compared to other cancers, they call it ‘rare’ in our country as it affects around 25 children a year.

“It’s a cancer that has no real treatments, no option for surgery to try and remove part or all of the tumour due to the significant risks involved and there’s no cure.”

That day he met his hero Nathan Cleary and several other Panthers players including Luke Garner, Mavrik Geyer and Sunia Turuva. He was excited the whole day that he got to meet his heroes in person. For nearly a year Tommy underwent a variety of treatments and procedures before the DIPG brain tumour finally took his life.

“Tommy fought for 10 months, never really complained, and took everything in his stride, despite the cancer stealing so much from him,” said Amanda.

Tragically at Tommy’s funeral, less than two weeks later, Tommy’s grandfather Stan suddenly collapsed.

“Despite the best efforts of everyone there, my dad died of a sudden cardiac arrest,” remembers Amanda.

But only after he said goodbye to his beloved grandson.

“My dad, Stanley Adams, had been a crazy Panthers supporter for over 50 years, so much so, that using the Panthers colours was a prerequisite for his funeral notice.”

It’s amazing how a sport and a rugby league team can bring so such joy to its supporters even in the toughest moments in life.

To little Tommy and his grandfather Stan, the Penrith Panthers were their heroes but if you ask me the real heroes are boys like Tommy.

Let’s also not forget the

other real heroes in all of this. Tommy’s amazing parents, Amanda and Danielle and their other son Lachie.

One gets the feeling that every time the Panthers run out onto the field, there are two very special supporters, angels named Tommy and Stan, always watching and cheering them on from above. Please support RunDIPG at https://rundipg.org or phone 0456 385 903.

Stanley Adams.

A special visitor.

A day that will never be forgotten.

with Peter Lang

panther rumblings

PETE GRAHAM GOING NOWHERE

! Chairman to run again: Panthers Chairman Peter Graham has no intention of following CEO Brian Fletcher out the exit door at Panthers. I can confirm he wants to continue on beyond the 2026 Board elections. But he may have some competition looming – there’s constant speculation at the moment that there will be plenty of hands up for Board positions when members get the opportunity to vote early next year. As we know from the past, anything can happen at Board elections – Dave O’Neill was rolled as Chairman in 2022 despite the club having just won the Premiership.

! Outsider looms as Fletcher replacement: Penrith will maintain that internal candidates are a strong possibility for the CEO role when Brian Fletcher vacates the building in March next year. But I’m told it’s highly likely the club will recruit from outside and have a fresh start. There’s a handful of people inside the club who would likely consider themselves a shot and will probably go through the formal application process.

! Scoop confirmed: I wrote earlier this year that a high profile Panthers executive would be standing down this year. It was of course Brian Fletcher. The rumours about his departure have been around for some time.

! Smith’s Blues call-up: Lindsay Smith was a shock call-up into the New South Wales squad for Origin II in Perth. He’s unlikely to play but after his experience with the Kangaroos last year, it’s a great opportunity to be in the Origin environment. Dylan Edwards, Isaah Yeo, Brian To’o, Nathan Cleary and Liam Martin of course retained their spots in the Blues’ side when it was announced earlier this week. Presuming Smith doesn’t play, he will travel to New Zealand and play against the Warriors on Saturday week for Penrith.

! Rumblings over women’s facilities: One rumour that won’t go away at Panthers is that there’s a split in the camp over investment in the women’s program. Some are behind building a women’s academy that would cost north of $20 million, while others are suggesting the club is not in a financial position to do so. It has the potential do some real damage if the rumblings get worse.

! Brothers forever: It was the shot everyone wanted and Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai certainly gave the photographers what they craved after full-time last Sunday. The friends turned on-field foes had a long conversation after the game, embracing and joking with each other. The two sides meet again this season – no doubt Luai will be hoping to even the ledger after the Panthers got the chocolates.

! Spotted: Former Panthers five-eighth James Maloney sharing a laugh with Melbourne Cup winning jockey Glenn Boss as the guest speakers at Brothers’ annual luncheon last Friday. Maloney was in fine form sharing tales from his rugby league career.

! Spotted: Old mates Nathan Cleary and Api Koroisau em bracing at the coin toss before last Sunday’s game (right).

! McRae returns – kind of: Panthers fans in attend ance at CommBank Stadium last Sunday would have got a blast from the past when Scott McRae’s voice boomed over the speakers. The veteran Penrith ground announcer is back in the game with the Tigers, and is his old cheeky self. Penrith have been intent on a more professional yet bland approach to the ground announcing in recent years. It’s got noth-

ing on the

! Expensive night out: The Bulldogs may have opened up $10 tickets at Accor Stadium twice this year, winning praise in rugby league circles, but Dogs fans will get no such joy when they travel to CommBank Stadium to meet the Panthers later this month. An adult ticket in the Bulldogs supporter bay is $65. A platinum grandstand seat will set you back $115.

! Podcast: Don’t forget that the Weekender’s Troy Dodds and Nathan Taylor jump behind the microphone every week to present the Tension’s Running High podcast. New episodes drop on Wednesdays. Western Weekendwherever you listen to podcasts or head to www. westernweekender.com. au/podcast. Make sure you hit subscribe!

fun a parochial ground announcer like McRae can bring to the table.

Peter Graham.

FANS SHOW THEIR PANTHER PRIDE

It’s been an up-and-down year for Panthers fans, but they’ve kept a smile on their face –most of the time at least!

Here’s some of our best fan shots taken so far this year...

Tries: T Jenkins 3 Goals: N Cleary 3/4

Tries: D Laurie 2, J McLean, J Cole, S Lane Goals: P Alamoti 3/5

Tries: T Patea 2, J Attard Goals: J Liddiard 2/3 Missed last week’s results? Here’s a rundown of what happened in

Tries: M Jennings 2, C Clarke, S Huen, L Azile-Foliola, F Howarth Goals: D Brettle 4/6

Tries: S To’a, S Turuva, J Skelton Goals: A Doueihi 1/3

Tries: S Pio, I Ogden, P Makatoa Goals: M Stimson 2/3

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BULLDOGS

SHARKS SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS COWBOYS BULLDOGS

SHARKS SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS DOLPHINS RABBITOHS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

SHARKS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

ENTERTAINMENT

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

COUNTING DOWN THE HITS

From 1974 to 1987, ‘Countdown’ ruled Australian television sets and influenced the music scene. Now, Penrith will be taken back to those golden years as ‘Stars of Countdown Live in Concert’ comes to Panthers for a nostalgic night of entertainment.

The lineup includes Brian Mannix from Uncanny X-Men, Scott Carne from Kids in the Kitchen, Wilbur Wilde from Hey Hey It’s Saturday, and Ally Fowler from the Chantoozies, who remembers her time on the show fondly.

“It was hosted by Molly Meldrum; he had a little host stage area where he would interview guests and talk from there. He would also have live bands in the studio,” Fowler described.

“It was a really amazing launch pad for so many bands to get their music out there.

“If you got the endorsement of Molly, which you usually did if you were on the show, that set you on your way.”

The show had a live studio audience – including screaming girls.

“They weren’t sitting back like you see in studio audiences now. It was like a gig,” Fowler explained.

“They were all at the front of the stage when you were doing your performance, or they were huddled around Molly while he was on his stage where he’d do the interviews.

“It was quite unruly and anything could happen. It was a lot of fun.”

Ally Fowler is an Aussie actress and singer and is one of four members of 80s band,

the Chantoozies. The girl band is known for hits like ‘Wanna Be Up’ and ‘Baby It’s You’.

The Chantoozies were born when Fowl er and bandmate Tottie Goldsmith began talking about starting a cabaret.

“I started life more as an actor in a show called ‘Sons and Daughters’ and then I went on to ‘Neighbours’. I think it was while I was doing ‘Neighbours’ and living in Mel bourne, I met up with the lovely Tottie Goldsmith and we decided to do a cabaret show,” Fowler recounted.

“Tottie’s brother poked his head through the window and went, ‘You don’t want to do that, you want a band’. So, he got a band, and he came back and that was the Chan toozies.”

Soon, Eve von Bibra and Angie La Bozzet ta joined the ranks and the Chantoozies rose to stardom. Eventually, everyone went their separate ways as life became busy, but the band never formally broke up.

At ‘Stars of Countdown Live in Concert’, Fowler will be representing the band for the musical homage.

“There are a few fun surprises and gags in there. We joke around a bit and don’t take it all too seriously,” Fowler described.

“We’re not sending up ‘Countdown’ because it was a great show and it was great to be part of.

“We honour the show, but we also very much acknowledge the cheesiness of the 80s.”

There will be music, interviews, stories, tributes to Molly Meldrum, and shenanigans at the concert on July 19. Tickets are $74.50 and can be purchased online at https://penrith.panthers.com.au/event/ stars-of-countdown-live-in-concert.

ALLY HALL

Photo: Connor Lane.

A

PRICH AND ROUND NEW BLEND FREE BONUS CLASSES

lay ‘The Queen’s Nanny’ is a darkly comedic drama that portrays a series of pivotal moments between two strong-spirited women harbouring a complicated resentment under one regal roof.

The steely Queen Mother becomes angered with her children’s doting nanny in this play based on the true story of Marion ‘Crawfie’ Crawford.

The scandal? A tell-all memoir…

The play is written by Melanie Tait and adored by director Priscilla Jackson, who is behind this production.

“When Melanie first told me about Crawfie’s story – a woman who lived in the same town as her own Scottish family, who mixed and worked amongst Melanie’s extended

family and friends after being ousted by the royals – I was surprised it was the first I’d heard of Marion Crawford,” Jackson stated.

“In a contemporary world which seems obsessed with mining all details of royal life for artistic and celebrity clickbait, I was shocked Crawfie’s story was not more widely known.

“However, in reading the first draft of Melanie’s beautiful lyrical text, I was instantly moved by the bold form she explores –resisting any depiction of The Crown-esque characterisation – to create a taut, playful, yet deeply affecting commentary on power, authorship, motherhood and loyalty.”

‘The Queen’s Nanny’, presented by An Ensemble Theatre Production, will be at the Blue Mountains Theatre on June 28. Tickets range from $35 to $77 and can be purchased online at https://www.bluemountainstheatre.com/.

ALLY HALL

THINGS TO DO

Classic play back on stage

Get ready for a thrilling stage adaptation of Orwell’s ‘1984’ by the acclaimed Shake & Stir team. Follow Winston Smith’s bold rebellion against Big Brother as he risks everything for freedom – facing betrayal, torture, and the chilling horrors of Room 101. Marking its 10th anniversary, this powerful production will be held at The Joan on June 13.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

Penrith CBD Corporation

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

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

The Killer Queen Experience on June 13

Experience the magic of Queen with The Killer Queen Experience – Australia’s top tribute show at St Marys Band Club. Fronted by John Blunt, famed for his Freddie Mercury likeness, the band delivers Queen’s greatest hits with stunning authenticity. With live harmonies, iconic costumes, and electric energy, it’s more than a show – it’s a full rock revival.

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

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

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.

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.

Penrith Lions Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

Prepare for a pawesome day with Dogs on Show on June 14!

At the DOGS NSW Grounds in Orchard Hills, this free event features two Championship Dog Shows, the vibrant Pageant of Breeds, exciting sporting demos, expert advice, and much more. This will be a fabulous day out for any dog enthusiast, or simply a fun day out for the entire family. Dogs on Show at Orchard Hills

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

Penrith NASHOS

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

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Nepean Food Services

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

Free food shop

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

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information.

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.

Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC

movies...

REVIEW

Her Back

‘Bring Her Back’ is the newest film by Adelaide-born twin filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou.

It follows the story of orphaned siblings Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong) who are placed in a foster home after their father’s unexpected death.

Their foster mother Laura (Sally Hawkins) is eccentric and unnervingly friendly. She is haunted by the loss of her own daughter and immediately clings onto Piper. She also has a son named Oliver (Jonah Wren Phillips), a mute boy who exhibits unsettling behaviour.

Andy is fiercely protective of his vision-impaired half-sister and

tensions grow as Laura’s intentions begin to take a sinister shape.

There are so many things I love about this film. The South Australian setting nodding to the directors’ roots; the amazing acting from every cast member keeping me hooked on the plot; the eeriness created through dialogue and pacing – not through jump scares; and the emotional exploration of grief and love.

I was fully absorbed in the film from start to finish, other than when I had to look away to protect my delicate eyes from body horror scenes.

Although I enjoyed ‘Bring Her Back’, I do have some lingering

questions, particularly about Laura. I would have benefited from an exploration of her backstory –particularly about how she came into possession of the video tapes she watches repeatedly.

But that’s as far as my criticism goes. The cinematography was beautiful, recurring motifs foreshadowed upcoming events, and the special effects were convincing enough for me to squirm in my

www.hoyts.com.au

–

WAYNE’S W RLD

with Wayne Tunks

WAYNE TUNKS CAN BE HEARD WEEKDAYS, 7AM-10AM ON MY88 – AN IHEART STATION

Full warning, this week’s column is not going to be ‘80s related, but will still be about music. This past weekend I travelled to Melbourne to see the wonderful Kasey Chambers perform at Palms at Crown Casino. (Also took a trip out to Coldstream to go to the Chandon Winery, but that’s a story over a few drinks). Kasey truly is my second favourite artist, and this was the 11th time I have seen her live. Every time has been wonderful, and this time ranks up as one of the best times I’ve seen Kasey.

She is touring in support of her latest album, ‘Backbone’, but as she jokes at the beginning of the show, she’s not going to just play new songs, that would take too much effort for her to remember the words. I saw this tour at Panthers a few months back, but I think her and the band may be even more cohesive after a few months on the road playing this set list.

Kasey is an enigmatic performer, who always has funny stories and great humour and then next minute is belting out a heartbreaking ballad. A highlight of the night was the appearance of her eldest son, Talon Hopper, who is now an actor, who happened to be in town for the premiere of his new Netflix show. He popped on stage to bring his Mum a birthday cupcake and then

joined the band for a few songs, including an incredible rendition of ‘The Captain’ featuring Kasey, Talon and Bill Chambers, Kasey’s Dad – having three generations performing together.

Kasey has become known for her cover of Eminem’s ‘Lose Yourself’, and the power in her voice during this number is simply bewildering. At her recent shows, she has been slowing down, ‘Not Pretty Enough’, which gives it a more heartfelt feel, ‘Ain’t No Little Girl’ opens the show with a massive showcase of her voice and ‘Pony’ is always a big sing-along for the audience. So I may have moved from fan to stalker now, but what an incredible artist with an amazing talent.

Post Malone opening new bar

The trend of artist bars is continuing in Nashville with Post Malone to open a new venue on Broadway.

It will occupy the space previously taken by Tequila Cowboy, which is near bars bearing the names of Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean.

“We’ve created a space where everyone can come together and kick some ass,” Malone said.

“Nashville has really become a second home for me so I can’t wait to invite y’all over to my house.”

If you’re an Aussie heading to Nashville soon, make sure you check it out.

New albums out this week

A swag of new country albums will be out on Friday.

Brett Young and Dierks Bentley headline the release schedule, releasing ‘2.0’ and ‘Broken Branches’ respectively.

They’ll be available on all streaming services.

Keep an eye out for Cole Swindell’s new album too – it’ll drop on June 27.

Tyla drops new music

Rising country star, Tyla Rodrigues (above), has hit the ground running in 2025.

A remarkable new talent in Australian country music, she has set herself apart with her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics and captivating stage presence.

Recently signed to ABC Music, Rodrigues has released her latest single, ‘Hot & Heavy’. The release coincides with her first US performance at Nashville’s illustrious CMA FEST 2025 last week.

Stream the song in all the usual places.

TV Guide: June 13 – 19

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 Swimming: Australian Trials: Day 5 *Live* 1:30 Young Sheldon (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Titans v Sea Eagles *Live* 9:55 NRL: Golden Point 10:45 Movie: “Exit Wounds” (M l,s,v) (’01) Stars: Steven Seagal 12:40 Tipping Point (PG) 1:30 Home Shopping 4:00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 MasterChef Australia (PG) 11:30 Judge Judy (PG) 12:00 Good Chef Bad

1:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 2:00 The Car Club (PG) 2:30 Desert Collectors (PG) 3:30 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 4:00 Carnage (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown

3:00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 4:00 New Idea Test Kitchen 4:20 America’s Got Talent (PG) 6:20 Movie: “The Boss Baby: Family Business” (PG) (’21) Stars: Alec Baldwin 8:30 Movie: “Bad Teacher” (M) (’11) Stars: Cameron Diaz

Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI (PG)

4:35 Waabiny Time 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:35 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Waterworld Africa (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Where The Wild Things Are” (PG) (’09) Stars: Spike Jonze

6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 Buy To Build 8:30 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures 9:30 Numb3rs (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 Numb3rs (PG) 1:30 FBI (M v) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Seal Team (M) 2:00 Becker (PG) 2:30 Frasier (PG) 3:30 Rules Of Engagement (PG) 4:00

Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 6:00 Marcus Wareing: Simply Provence 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Gary Barlow’s Food & Wine: Australia 8:30 Kitchen Glow Up 9:00 Malaysia Gourmet With Justine Schofield 3:50 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:15 PBS News Hour 5:15 Forged In Fire (PG) 6:05 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Batman Returns” (M s,v) (’92) Stars: Michael

(PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” (M v) (’18) Stars: Chris Pratt 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30

1:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:00

To The Country 6:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 11:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 1:30 The Great Australian Doorstep (PG)

1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 Australia ReDiscovered (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 NDRC Top Fuel Championship 4:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 1:00 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings (PG) 2:00 Zumbo’s Just Desserts (PG) 3:15 Starstruck (PG) 4:30 Dodger (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Abominable” (G) (’19) Stars: Chloe Bennet 7:30 Movie: “Braveheart” (MA15+) (’95) Stars: Mel Gibson

2:00 ER (PG) 2:45

(PG) 3:30 A Bite To

3:55 Penn And Teller: Fool Us (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI

5:05 Pacific Island Food Revolution (PG) 6:00 Moko (PG) 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 The American Buffalo (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Blood Quantum” (M l) (’19) Stars: Michael Greyeyes 10:15 First Nations Women’s Music Program (PG)

5:30 Toast The Host: How To Entertain At Home 6:00 Marion Grasby’s Flavours: Heart And Home 6:30 Ainsley’s Taste Of Malta 7:30 Roux Down The River 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

6:00 Home Shopping 9:00 Tough Tested 10:00 On The Fly 10:30 Navigating The World 12:30 Judge Judy (PG) 1:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Seal Team (MA15+)

3:30 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:00 PBS News Hour 5:05 Over The Black Dot 5:35 Mastermind 6:35 Impossible Engineering 8:30 The Icons That Built The World 10:10 Australia’s Health Revolution (M)

11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:30 Deal Or No Deal 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Frasier (PG)

3:10 Movie: “Carbon Copy” (PG) (’81) Stars: George Segal 5:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Lego Movie” (PG) (’14) Stars: Chris Pratt 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire” (M h,v) (’05) Stars: Daniel Radcliffe

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 The Piano: Concert (PG) 3:35 Grand Designs (PG) 4:40 Walking With Dinosaurs 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 8:00 Bay Of Fires (M l,v) 8:55 Little Disasters (M l) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Sunday Footy Feast 2:30 TBA 3:45 Motorbike Cops (PG) 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 8:45 7News

2:30 Building Alaska (PG) 3:30 My Lottery Dream Home 4:00 Farmhouse Fixer 5:00 Open Homes Australia 5:30

2:45 Movie: “I Was Monty’s Double” (G) (’58) Stars: John Mills 4:50 Movie: “The Kentuckian” (PG) (’55) Stars: Burt Lancaster 7:00 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: Semi Final: Teams TBA *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post-Match

(PG) 2:30 Home And Away (PG) 4:30 Baking It (PG) 5:30 Extreme Animal Transport (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 3:35 The Point 4:35 First Nations Women’s Music Program (PG) 5:25 Stompem Ground 6:30 Great Lakes Wild (PG) 7:30 Our Medicine (PG) 8:35 Movie: “Uncharted With Alicia Keys” (PG) (’23) Stars: TT The Artist 10:20 Movie: “Shaft” (M) (’00) 9:00 Reel Action 9:30 What’s Up Down Under 10:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures 11:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:30 I Fish 12:00 Navigating The World 1:00 Judge Judy (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Seal Team (MA15+) 11:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:35 Frasier (PG) 10:30 Ridiculousness (PG) 11:30 South Park (PG)

Stein’s Long Weekends 9:35 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 2:50 Jeopardy! 4:55 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 5:25 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 5:50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs (PG) 6:40 The Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 The Bermuda Triangle (PG) 3:45 Movie: “Speechless” (PG) (’94) Stars: Geena Davis 5:45 Movie: “Johnny English” (PG) (’03) Stars: Rowan Atkinson 7:30 Movie: “Catwoman” (M v) (’04) Stars: Halle Barry 9:35 Movie: “Batman Begins” (M v) (’05)

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

2:30 Movie: “Outcast Of The Islands” (PG) (’51) Stars: Trevor Howard 4:30 Movie: “Invitation To A Gunfighter” (PG) (’64) Stars: Yul Brynner 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Equalizer” (MA15+) (’14) Stars: Denzel Washington

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5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:10 Super Monsters 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:00 Supertato 7:35 Star Wars: Young

Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 MasterChef Australia (PG) 8:40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M l,s) 9:40 The Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers

(PG) 3:55 TBA 5:00 Make You Laugh Out Loud (PG) 6:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 The 77 Percent 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Wildlife Rescue NZ (PG) 7:35 Who Do You Think You Are? 9:30 Numb3rs (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 Numb3rs (PG) 1:30 FBI (M v) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00

7:00

National News 7:30 7:30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 6:00 Food Safari 6:30

8:30

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

(PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 9:25 FBI (M v) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat (PG) 8:45 Lewis (M) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG)

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:00 Octonauts 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Dino Dex 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures

3:00 Make

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7:30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI (PG)

Zealand (PG) 7:30 Piri’s Tiki Tour (PG) 8:35 Movie: “Lean On Me” (M l,v) (’89) 9:30 Numb3rs (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 Numb3rs (PG) 1:30 FBI (M v) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

Food Safari 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Nadiya Bakes 8:00 Rachael Ray In Tuscany 8:30 Guillaume’s French Atlantic 5:10 The Toys That Built The World (PG) 6:00 Alone Germany (PG) (In German) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “New Year’s Eve” (PG) (’11)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 The One That Got Away (M l) 2:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 3:00 Claire Hooper’s House

(M v)

5:00 Chateau DIY 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30

5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Yes Prime Minister 8:40 Midsomer Murders (M s,v) 10:40 The Closer (M v)

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

Ê The new season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ premieres this Sunday, June 15 on Channel Seven. Sonia Kruger and Dr Chris Brown return as hosts with Craig Revel Horwood, Helen Richey, Sharna Burgess and Mark Wilson back as judges. The celebrities competing for the coveted Mirror Ball trophy this season include Brittany Hockley, Felicity Ward, Harry Garside, Michael Usher, Osher Günsberg, Rebecca Gibney, Shaun Micallef and Susie O’Neill.

Ê The Nine Network has secured the rights to next year’s Paralympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina. The Games will broadcast across the 9Network, 9Now and Stan from March 6-15. Up to 665 Para-athletes from 50 countries are set to compete at the Games, contesting 79 medal events across six sports.

Ê Comedian Sam Pang has been confirmed as host of this year’s Logie Awards. It will be the third straight year Pang has hosted TV’s night of nights. The 65th Logie Awards will screen live on Channel Seven on Sunday, August 3.

Ê Foxtel is dumping its suite of music channels in the coming weeks. Paramount-owned MTV Music Channels MTV Hits, Nick Music, MTV Club, MTV 80s and CMT will exit the Foxtel platform on June 30. It’s another huge

blow for subscribers who lose more channels these days than they gain. The company says they look forward to sharing more information soon on new music channels coming to Foxtel. If you want your music video fix – YouTube, Pluto TV via 10Play and Fetch TV might be the way to go.

Ê One for the diary. The final season of Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’ will finally drop at the end of the year in three parts. The first four episodes of season five will be available on November 27, with three more episodes dropping on Boxing Day. The finale will air on New Year’s Day.

Ê The new season of Apple TV+ series ‘Morning Wars’, starring Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, will premiere on Wednesday, September 17. The 10-episode fourth season opens in spring 2024, almost two years after the events of season three. With the UBA-NBN merger complete, the newsroom must grapple with newfound responsibility, hidden motives, and the elusive nature of truth in a polarised America.

Ê Also coming to Apple TV+ in September is

the new season of ‘Slow Horses’. Starring legendary actor Gary Oldman, the fifth season will welcome ‘Ted Lasso’ star Nick Mohammed as a special guest star. ‘Slow Horses’ will land on Wednesday, September 24.

Ê One of the best shows going around, ‘Hacks’, has been confirmed for a fifth season. Season four just wrapped up on Stan last week and it was beyond brilliant. Binge it now!

Ê Popular Disney+ documentary series ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ has received an order for a fifth season ahead of the Welsh club’s upcoming debut in the EFL Championship. And in more exciting news, FX and Disney+ have revealed details on FX’s ‘Necaxa’, a new docuseries from Eva Longoria in partnership with Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, the three of whom are all investors in Mexico-based Club Necaxa. In ‘Necaxa’, Longoria sets out to reignite the soul of one of Mexico’s oldest and most storied football clubs, Club Necaxa – enlisting the help of fellow owners McElhenney and Reynolds, fresh off their headline-making revival of Wrexham AFC. I can’t wait to see it!

• Expert Planning Advice

• Comprehensive Development & Property Feasibility Reports

• Tailored Scoping & Planning Proposals

• Land & Environment Appeals Support

• Efficient Development Applications

• Specialized Consultant Reports & Statements • Thorough Building Code Assessments • Construction Certificate for both Commercial & Residential Projects • Complying Development Certificates for both Commercial & Residential Projects

Why Choose Urban City Group?

Decades of proven experience in Private Certification, Town Planning and Development Consultancy

Access to over 100 expert consultants ready to support your project

Streamlined Approval Processes tailored to your needs

Trusted guidance from concept to completion

Nathan Taylor

Western Property

PENTHOUSE LIVING!

What is so great about this property?

This apartment is one of the Penthouses within the Solis by Astina Development. Positioned on the top floor, this three-bedroom penthouse offers uninterrupted panoramic views of the Blue Mountains.

Who does this property suit?

This property is perfect for a downsizer looking for penthouse living. Solis sets a benchmark for apartment living within the Penrith CBD. This property is complete turn key, brand new, ready to be occupied. Spanning over 100sqm of private external

CONTACT:

PRD Penrith

Thomas Latty • 0452 230 480 thomas.latty@prd.net.au

has a real Real Estate, her enthusiasm and drive is reason she

Jocelyn Marrian hasareal passion for RealEstate, her enthusiasm and drive is the reasonshe has joined @realty.

space, the fully wraparound balcony creates an entertainer’s dream

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

Positioned within the heart of Penrith, this property is within walking distance to Westfield, Penrith Train Station, and the Nepean River Walk. It couldn’t be better positioned!

How Jocelyn helped Home Owners get their Best Results!

Good knowledge

Jocelyn provided an excellent and professional service in theselling of the house. Jocelyn was very knowledgeable, and her communicationwas excellent. Jocelyn made the process of selling the house seamless.I would highly recommend her service.

the selling house her communication was excellent seamless I service

Verified by RateMyAgent

Highly recommend

Very professional, sold house quickly and for theprice we wanted and very easyto talk to Verified by RateMyAgent

and worked in the network of industry that all property, Jocelyn is passionate she is committed to delivering what she her clients the best

Jocelyn has lived andworkedin the Penrith area for over 30yrs with an extensive networkof clients and friends. In an industrythat is all about property,Jocelynispassionate about people, sheiscommitted to deliveringwhatshe promises and getting herclients thebest results!

What SetsUsApart?

Sets Us Apart?

@realty i sa modern and forward thinking rea le stat ea genc yt hat is growing every day, b ringin gaf resh upgrad et oa n industry t hat ha s been largely unchanged for severa ld ecades. The bricks an dm ortar model of agencies requiring as hopfront is g one.

T h e m o d e r n r e a l e s t a t e p r o f e s s i o n a l i s a w a r e t h a t t h e n e

s h o p f r o n t w i n d o w i s o n l i n e a n d h a s a d a p t e d b y b e i n g m o b i l e a n

t e c h s a v v y A r m e d w i t h t h e l a t e s t t e c h n o l o g i e s e v e r y @ r e a l t y a s s o c i a t e h a s c c e s s t o a c o u d - b a s e d a d m i n i s t r a t i v e s o f t w a r p a c k a g e p r o v i d i n g c o m p l e t e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t y o u r p r o p e r t y a n d t h e a b i l i t y t o u p d a t e y o u r p r o p e r t y ’ s d e t a i l s o n l i n e a n y w h e r e , a n y t i m e

The modern real estat ep rofessiona li sa war et ha tt he ne w s hopfront window is online and has adapted by being mobile an d tech savvy .A rmed wit ht he latest technologies every @realt y a ssociate has a ccess t oac l oud-base da dministrative softwar e packag ep r oviding complete informatio na bout you rp r operty and the ability to update your p roperty’s details online anywhere, anytime .

T h e o n c e p t o f @ r e a l t y r e v o l v e s a r o u n d t h e i n d i v i d u a l r e a l e s t a t p r o f e s s i o n a l T h i s m e a n s @ r e a l t y a s s o c i a t e s a r e n o t u r d e n e d b y

t h e r e q u i r e m e n t s t h a t a r e c o m m o n i n o s t r e a l e s t a t e o f f i c e s , o r i s t r a c t i o n s t h a t c a n c o m e w i t h a b u s y f f i c e I n s t e a d H e a d o f f

The c oncep to f@ realty revolves around the individual real estat e professional. Thi sm eans @realt ya ssociates are not b urdened by the requirement st ha ta re common in m ost real estate offices, or d istractions t hat ca nc ome with ab usy o ffice. Instea dH ea do ffice o ffer sal arge t eam focused on ou ra g ent ss upport with Admin, M arketing, IT, legal ,f inanc e a llowing th eA gent st ow ork in th eb est interest of Y OU, th ec lient. Contact J ocely nM arrian on: 040 516 4446 https://www.ratemyagent.com.au/real-estate-agent/jocelyn-marrian

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JocelynMarrian is atrue gem andI highly recommend hertopeople lookingto buy or sell

Jocelyn made the whole experienceapleasure she had great communication and her understanding of themarket and what we could do toothe property to bring it from thepastto the present and more appealing to potential buyers.Her level of care and professionalism took us from being nervous to excited even taking time out off hoursto answer calls andquestions thatI had.The staging of houseand furniture choicemade it feel warm and inviting With theadvertisement and photos in the lead up to theopen house wastruely amazing On the day of The open home there wasagreat turnout and Jocelyn gotusagreat result on the firstday the house wason the market. I will recommend Jocelyn Marrianto anyone lookingtobuy or sell.

Verified by RateMyAgent

Jocelyn Marrian a true and I her to people looking to experience a pleasure the market we too the the past to more buyers Her care professionalism hours to and questions that I had The house and choice made the advertisement the open was truely amazing The was a great got us a great on first day was on market recommend Marrian to looking to buy sell by

Exceeds Expectations

We chose to useJocelyn to sell our property after having previouslybought our property through her and having been impressed by her communication, skills and expertise. Jocelyn has gone above and beyond to help us through thesaleprocess. Her communication is frequent and thorough and ensures we know what is happening every step of the way. She ensured our propertywas in its best position to sell andsold aboveour asking price on the first open house.Jocelyn has been exceptionally supportive throughout the sale periodwith both ourselves and the purchasers and has gone beyond her role to ensure that everyone hadwhatthey needed and knew each step of the process and whatto expect. Would 100% recommend using Jocelyn

Verified by RateMyAgent

Fast andefficient

use Jocelyn property after previously bought her expertise gone beyond to us the sale process and ensures every step of way ensured our property was in to and sold above our house Jocelyn sale period with the has her to had what they each process what to expect 100% by and efficient

Jocelyn is Amazing !!!!

Ourproperty sold after the first openhome.Jocelyn even got the price aboveour expected sale price. She worked hardtoget the deal done even with the issues regarding our areas reputation of land issues.Our land /property is not effected but still caused afew massive hurdles. Jocelyn made everything easy and accommodatedus with ourbusy work/life schedule. Alot wasdone behind the scenes and Ican’t thank her enough for allthe effort she has putin. If your looking for someone to sell your property with efficiently and no fussI highly recommend Jocelyn

Verified by RateMyAgent

Amazing !!!! Our property open home Jocelyn above our price hard to get areas issues Our /property but a few hurdles Jocelyn accommodated us our busy schedule A lot was done behind I can’t her for all the put in your fuss I Jocelyn by

Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.

PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0

FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME

WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE

Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me

Penrith 1/25 Robert Street

WHEN LOCATION COUNTS

This spacious, well-presented townhouse is set in a quiet complex of just four, offering privacy and comfort across two levels. Upstairs features three generous bedrooms, main with ensuite, built-ins to two, a functional bathroom, and separate toilet. Downstairs includes open-plan living and dining, a functional kitchen, study, inter nal laundry with third toilet, and single garage.

Step outside to a private, fully fenced courtyard with a covered entertaining area and open-air deck-perfect for relaxing or hosting guests. Located just 1.5km from Penrith Station, Penrith Plaza, schools, parks, and cafés, this is a smart choice for first home buyers or investors.

AUCTION: Saturday 21 June at 3:00pm Open Home Saturday 2:00pm – 2:30pm

For further information please call Tony Liras 0425 269 611 or Peter Stanford 0417 333 322

2/314 High Street, Penrith

Penrith 1/32 Doonmore Street

Cranebrook 6 Holmegate Crescent

OLD WORLD CHARM WHERE PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY MEETS THE PERFECT FAMILY RETREAT!

Matthew O’Farrell from LJ Hooker Penrith proudly presents 1/32 Doonmore Street, Penrith. This charming 2-bedroom home, with a versatile third room perfect for a study or hobby space, offers immense potential.Ideally located near Penrith CBD and the medical precinct, it’s perfect for first-time buyers, investors, or medical professionals. Zoned R4 High Density Residential, the property boasts future development possibilities. Inside, enjoy a welcoming lounge with a fireplace, high ceilings, and air conditioning. Outdoors, discover ample entertaining space and street parking.With Penrith’s booming infrastructure and proximity to schools, transport, and entertainment, this is an excellent investment. Don’t miss this opportunity – call today for a private inspection!

Private Inspections Only

For more details contact

Matthew O’Farrell 0415 115 415

2/314 High Street, Penrith

Discover this stunning 6-bedroom, tri-level home in Cranebrook, perfectly designed for large families seeking space and comfort. Boasting three modern bathrooms, two expansive living areas, and a dedicated rumpus room, there’s ample room for everyone. The master features a built-in robe and huge ensuite, while five of the six generous bedrooms have built-in robes. A standout feature is the potential teenage or in-law retreat with separate access, ideal for multi-generational living. Enjoy low-maintenance timber floating floors, fresh carpet in bedrooms, an updated exterior, and revamped gardens. A spacious balcony off the dining/kitchen area overlooks the low-maintenance backyard and garden shed. The massive double garage includes a secure workshop. Ducted air conditioning and abundant storage ensure year-round comfort. Located in a sought-after neighbourhood near schools, parks, and shops, this flexible home offers the ultimate family lifestyle. Move in and enjoy!

$1,130,000 - $1,150,000

Private Inspections Only

For more details contact Matthew O’Farrell 0415 115 415 2/314 High Street, Penrith

Castlereagh 152-166 Sheredan Road

Welcome to 152-166 Sheredan Road, Castlereagh – a picturesque and flood-free 5-acre property offering idyllic acreage living just a 10-minute drive to Penrith. All reasonable offers will be considered.

This impeccably presented solid brick homestead is set back from the road and boasts three generously sized bedrooms plus an office in the master. Recently renovated, the home features fresh paint, new flooring, a new country-style kitchen with stainless steel appliances and stone benchtops, and a fresh bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiles – leaving nothing to do but move in! Enjoy a large living area with a bar and slow combustion fire, a separate dining space, and stunning rural outlooks from every window, complemented by wraparound verandahs and mountain views. Additional features include a detached double garage and carport, plus a second storage shed or large workshop, providing ample options for any buyer Properties like this are rare, so don’t miss your chance to secure this exceptional rural retreat!

Private Inspections Only

For more details contact Matthew O’Farrell 0415 115 415 2/314 High Street, Penrith

THE CRITICAL ROLE OF FEET

Your feet do more than get you from place to place; they’re the foundation of your entire body. When your feet are in pain or out of alignment, it doesn’t just hurt your steps. It can affect your posture, joint health, physical activity, and even your mental well-being.

Let’s start with posture. If you’re dealing with heel pain, bunions, or arch problems, you’ll often adjust how you walk to avoid discomfort. That small adjustment can throw off your knees, hips, and back, leading to a domino effect of pain and stiffness elsewhere. Many chronic back and joint issues can trace back to foot alignment.

Now consider movement. When feet hurt, people walk less. That lack of movement can cause weight gain, reduced cardiovascular health, muscle loss, and increased risk of falls especially in older adults. Even mood can suffer.

Studies show chronic pain and reduced mobility contribute to social isolation and depression, especially when once-enjoyed activities become difficult.

Feet also give us clues about overall health. Swollen feet or ankles can indicate circulation issues or heart problems. Numbness or tingling might suggest diabetes or nerve damage. Discolored toenails, wounds that won’t heal, or changes in skin texture can all point to underlying medical concerns.

That’s where podiatrists come in. Far from just trimming toenails or treating bunions, podiatrists play a key role in diagnosing and

The Experts

SINGH

managing conditions that affect your whole body. They can assess your gait, recommend proper footwear, prescribe orthotics, and help with early detection of issues like diabetic neuropathy or arthritis.

Good foot health isn’t about vanity, it’s about staying mobile, active, and independent. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or a retiree wanting to enjoy walks without pain, healthy feet make it possible. So don’t wait for a serious issue to arise. If your feet are sore, stiff, swollen, or just tired all the time, it’s worth a visit to a podiatrist. Because taking care of your feet means taking care of the rest of you.

EXPLAINING BRUXISM

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth –often unconsciously during the day or while sleeping. While it may seem harmless at first, chronic bruxism can cause significant damage to your teeth, jaw joints, and overall oral health.

Many patients don’t realise they suffer from bruxism until symptoms appear. These can include worn, chipped, or flattened teeth, frequent headaches, jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and even interrupted sleep. In some cases, a bed partner may hear the grinding noises at night.

The causes of bruxism vary. Stress and anxiety are two of the most common contributors, particularly in adults. Misaligned teeth or bite issues (malocclusion), sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea, and certain medications or lifestyle factors like caffeine and alcohol consumption can also play a role.

Left untreated, bruxism

can lead to tooth fractures, damage to dental restorations, and chronic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.

That’s why early diagnosis and intervention are quite critical.

At Sydney Smile Doctor, we begin by carefully assessing your symptoms, bite alignment, and wear patterns. Treatment often starts with a custom-made night guard – an appliance worn while sleeping that cushions the teeth and reduces grinding forces. In some cases, addressing stress through relaxation techniques, cognitive behavioural therapy, or changes in lifestyle can make

Experts

a meaningful difference. For patients with severe wear or bite damage, restorative treatments such as crowns or onlays may be necessary to rebuild lost structure and protect the remaining teeth. Botox injections into the jaw muscles are also gaining popularity as a safe, effective option to reduce muscle activity and relieve bruxism-related pain.

If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t ignore it – early treatment can prevent years of discomfort and costly dental damage. Book a consultation with us at Sydney Smile Doctor and protect your smile for the long term.

NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF PET FOOD CHOICES

When it comes to feeding your pet, the choices can feel overwhelming – dry food, canned food, rolls, grain-free diets, raw diets, even breed-specific formulas.

Age: Puppies and kittens require energy-dense, nutrient-rich diets to fuel their rapid growth. Most pets should transition to adult food at 12 months of age, although large-breed dogs may need puppy

help manage genetic predispositions to conditions such as arthritis, skin issues, dental disease, and urinary problems. For instance, large breeds benefit from joint-supporting diets, while

Add to that the questions of when do you change from puppy to adult food? And how do you switch foods without causing tummy upsets? It’s no wonder pet owners can feel confused. But nutrition plays a vital role in your pet’s health and wellbeing. The goal is to provide balanced nutrition that supports their individual needs, optimises their health, and contributes to a long, happy life. A nutritional assessment with your veterinarian is a great place to start. Your vet will consider several key factors when recommending a diet:

Weight: Obesity is one of the most common health concerns in pets. Underweight pets can also signal underlying problems. Body condition score charts can help visualise whether your pet is at a healthy weight.

food until 18 months. Senior pets (typically seven years and older) benefit from diets that support joint health, digestive function, and cognitive wellbeing.

Breed and size: Breed-specific and size-appropriate diets can

small breeds may need formulas that promote dental health.

Specific needs: Some pets require therapeutic diets for conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or allergies. Your vet may prescribe a special diet to

help manage these issues. With so many options available – dry kibble, canned food, fresh rolls, or raw diets – it’s important to choose a balanced, nutritionally complete option. Not all diets marketed as “natural” or “grain-free” are ideal; in some cases, these trends may do more harm than good. Your veterinary team can help you navigate these choices.

How to change foods without tummy upsets?

Switch foods gradually over seven to 10 days. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old, and slowly increase the new food while reducing the old. This gentle transition allows your pet’s digestive system to adjust.

Every pet is different. Partnering with your veterinary team ensures your pet receives the best nutrition for their individual needs at every life stage. For personalised advice, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

This week’s stars affect your communication and work zones, so steer clear of a smooth operator who could lead you up the primrose path to trouble. Check all news, proposals and information carefully. If something sounds too good to be true, then turn around and start walking in the opposite direction! And ask a trusted colleague for a second opinion. It is a good week to eat well, exercise often and make relaxation a daily priority. Balance is the key.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

This week neighbourhood activities and local connections are favoured as the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter encourage you to be more community minded. Don’t let stubbornness, false Taurus pride or silly misunderstandings stop you from taking a giant leap forward when it comes to love, forgiveness and generosity. With Venus transiting through your sign, accept the opportunity for healing and connection with outstretched arms and an open heart.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Are you impatient for excitement and success? Awesome opportunities are circling around you, but they’re not immediately obvious. They are hidden in unexpected places, waiting for you to discover them. Ambitious, creative Cats love to spring into immediate action but – at the moment – some of your best work will be done quietly, behind the scenes. Others may not notice what you’re currently doing but your efforts will be rewarded in the months ahead.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week Venus transits through your relationship zone – which highlights love, romance, companionship, consultation and creative joint ventures. And Mars moves into your peer group zone – which favours socialising and networking. Then it’s the Solstice on Saturday - the shortest day of the year (in the southern hemisphere) and the longest day (in the northern hemisphere). So make sure you spend quality time sharing the day with someone special.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Piscean plans could be turned upside down as nebulous Neptune (your patron planet) squares Jupiter and throws unrealistic expectations and confusing misunderstandings into the mix. Especially involving financial matters, children, creativity and/or friends. Don’t let other people lead you astray, and don’t let self-doubt stymie your confidence and derail your dreams. There are serious Saturn lessons to be learned, so learn them quickly and then move on.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

The focus is on financial matters as the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter activate your money zone and your spontaneous spending gene. Which is OK – as long as you have the cash flow to fund a shopping spree. If you don’t, then you’ll have to entertain yourself in more frugal ways. Friends and finances are a particularly messy mix, so strive to keep the two well separated. Sunday’s Mars/Jupiter link favours proactive communication and keeping busy, especially at home.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Dynamic Mars barnstorms through your sign from Tuesday until August 6, so it’s time to be bold, brave, and passionately proactive! The stars also encourage educational matters, travel, international connections and local networking. But don’t let yourself be deceived by fake news, sidetracked by dubious friends, or distracted by empty promises. Keep your eyes wide open and your feet firmly planted on the ground. Sunday favours being physically active.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Most fiery Sagittarians are spontaneous folk. But this week you need to carefully consider the consequences of what you do and say. If you act in haste – without all the relevant facts at hand – then you could find yourself deep in a disagreement or a messy misunderstanding (especially with a child, teenager, lover or friend). Sunday’s super Mars/Jupiter link favours sport and travel, and boosts confidence and optimism, so make the most of it!

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Mighty Mars (your boss planet) moves into fussy Virgo on Tuesday so you’ll find the more disciplined and diligent you are, the better the week will be. Then the Sun transits into your home zone on Saturday, when it’s a good time to focus on home and hearth, domestic matters, and your blood relatives or family of choice. Whatever projects you tackle this week, make sure you complete tasks properly before embarking on exciting new ventures.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

This week Saturn and Neptune square Jupiter (in your sign), so be aware that all is not as it seems (especially involving a professional matter or a work colleague). Jupiter and the Sun (moving into Cancer on Saturday) encourage you to jump out of your comfort zone, shake off bad habits, embrace opportunities and fast track changes. As birthday great Nicole Kidman observes, “Life has got all those twists and turns. You’ve got to hold on tight and off you go.”

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Librans are clever and capable but are you confident enough for big time success? This week the Sun joins Mercury and Jupiter in your career zone, so step up and assume a leadership role as you network and socialise with your extended peer group, and mix business with plenty of pleasure. But your deft diplomatic skills may be required to sort out a messy misunderstanding (especially on Monday and Thursday). Sunday is all about rest and relaxation.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

It’s not all about you this week Capricorn! The Sun joins Mercury and Jupiter in your partnership zone, so the focus is firmly on relationships of the romantic, platonic and business variety. It’s time to walk around in the shoes of others for a while. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Meryl Streep (who turns 76 on Sunday), “The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Sunday favours travelling with loved ones.

Word Search

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

THEME: ANNIVERSARIES ANNUAL

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about NSW coach Laurie Daley in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. Laurie Daley played 246 NRL games for which club?

2. What was Daley’s first appointment as a representative coach?

3. In what town was the local football ground re-named Laurie Daley Oval in recognition of Daley’s achievements in the game?

4. In what year did Daley lead New South Wales to a State of Origin series victory?

5. In what year did Daley first experience Premiership success with Canberra?

6. In what year was Daley first selected to represent New South Wales in the State of Origin arena?

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

Golden start for Jessica

Spain success: Fox secures C1 Gold on opening weekend of European summer

Two Penrith locals have enjoyed a memorable weekend in Spain, picking up medals on the opening weekend of the European paddling season.

Jessica Fox and Lucien Delfour were the only Aussies to score medals in the first World Cup of the year, which was held in La Seu, Spain.

Fox extended her dominance in the women’s canoe event, winning her 34th World Cup gold medal.

After missing the women’s kayak final, Fox was back to her very best with a flying run down the rapids. Even with a two-second penalty, the four-time Olympian finished over four seconds faster than second place.

“I’m super happy with that final. It was great to get out there and put out a fast run. It’s a tricky course in La Seu,” Fox said.

With a new format of only one heat race then straight into a final, Fox said it was a relief to bounce back from the disappointment of her women’s kayak heat.

“I wanted to come back today and put down some good paddling. To win on the first World Cup is a great start, but still four more races to go for the World Cup series and then

main goal of the year.”

Meanwhile, fellow Penrith paddler and former Olympian Lucien Delfour has earned his first podium in six years, taking home the bronze

medal in the men’s kayak final. After finishing third in the heats, the 36-year-old put down a flying

race of the year. I’ve come a long way,” Delfour said.

Despite a two-second penalty, Delfour crossed the finish line in first place with only the two international paddlers after him beating his time.

“This is my first medal since 2019 and my first medal here since 2018. There were lots of disappointments and struggles, so it’s a great feeling,” he said.

Delfour’s podium puts the Australian Canoe Slalom Team in great stead at the start of the international season. La Seu is the first of five World Cup events, with the season set to finish on home soil in Penrith for the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships.

Fox said last weekend’s results will excite fans ahead of the World Championships at Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

“I’m really looking forward to the season and gearing up for the World Championships at home,” she said.

“That’s our biggest opportunity as Aussie athletes and this race here, there has been some really great paddling from the Aussies.”

DISTRICT TENNIS ASSOCIATION

NATHAN TAYLOR

Lucien Delfour picks up a bronze medal. Jessica Fox smiles after winning C1 gold.

POPULAR REF BLOWS FULL-TIME

Story continued from » p.64

Another career highlight came in 2022 with his NSW Cup refereeing debut, later capped by a Sydney Shield Grand Final.

Turner also officiated a handful of fixtures in the NRLW and came agonisingly close to an NRL debut on several occasions.

“Like most players and referees, the goal is to get to first grade,” the Cranebrook resident said.

“They have a role called stand-by official.

“Last year I was down on that for nearly every round in the NRL. You warm up with the referees on the field and then you sit up in the old Video Ref box. If they need you due to an injury to a ref, they tell you to go get ready.

“At couple of times last year I was told to get ready, but the ref who was injured didn’t come off. That’s how close I got to the NRL.”

Turner said while officiating certainly isn’t for everyone due to “external pressures” including the media and the fans, he’ll always look back on his time in the game with mostly positive memories.

“Right now I’m not missing it, but in the long-term possibly,” he admitted.

“I still plan to be involved in rugby league, just not on-field refereeing. I’ve completed a few trainer courses, coach courses and there’s opportunities later to get back into refereeing as a referee coach, but not straight away.”

Penrith complete redemption story with State Titles success From pain to glory

NATHAN TAYLOR

After falling painstakingly short last year, Penrith have completed their redemption story – crowned U15 State Champions at the 2025 Netball NSW Senior State Titles.

The Senior State Titles, which were co-hosted this year by Camden and Campbelltown Netball Associations, is the principal state competition for netball athletes across NSW aged from 15 years.

Throughout the King’s Birthday long weekend, thousands of players, coaches, umpires and officials descended on south-west Sydney for the three-day competition.

Following their runners-up status in last year’s U15 Championship Division, Penrith Netball Association were determined more than ever to go one better this season.

At last year’s Senior State Titles Penrith finished second to Sutherland despite ending the tournament on the same amount of wins. The only thing that separated first from second place was ‘for and against’.

Penrith head coach Sarah Blackwood and her team of talented teenagers were eager to not let that happen again.

“We played 19 games over the three days and it’s first past the post. Last year we were equal first but lost on the ‘for and against’ side of it. This year we knew if wanted to win

we had to try and do it outright,” Blackwood told the Weekender Penrith worked incredibly hard in the lead up to last weekend’s Senior State Titles, training regularly over the past nine months and combining brilliantly as a team.

“They were a very determined bunch of players. I’ve coached a few teams over the years but I’ve never coached a collective group that are so determined and so focused on wanting to achieve that dream of coming first place,” Blackwood said.

However, in classic sports fashion not all things went to plan.

“We lost one of our key players to an ACL four weeks ago,” Blackwood revealed.

“We had to do a reshuffle of players and one of my girls had to learn a whole new position in four weeks. On top of some other bad injuries, the girls overcame a lot this year to get over the line. It was pretty special.” Penrith only dropped two matches all tournament – proving they were far and away the best U15 Girls team in the entire state.

“This group has got quite a special bond and friendship, which went a long way in being able to come together to work towards that goal,” Blackwood said.

Penrith have been crowned U15 State Champions.

SPORTS SHORTS

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have announced that A-League Men’s coach Alen Stajcic has re-signed with the club for a further two seasons. Stajcic has spent his entire life in the western suburbs, living, working and playing throughout the region, while passionately championing local talent and advocating for the area. Now, as head coach of the Wanderers, he’s not only returned home but reignited belief in a region rich in football passion. Since taking the reins ahead of the 2024/25 A-League season, Stajcic has overseen a dramatic transformation. In just one campaign, he has led the Wanderers on their best run of form in a decade, with the team going 12 matches unbeaten, topping the league for goals scored and climbing back into the Finals Series. His win percentage stands as the highest of any Wanderers manager in nine years, underlining his immediate and profound impact. After a season out of the Finals picture, Stajcic has restored the identity and hunger that Wanderland is known for. Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson said Stajcic’s re-signing signals a new exciting chapter for the club. “Alen has done an incredible job in his first season,” he said. “His leadership, connection to the region, and drive to succeed have been instrumental in our progress this season. We’re thrilled to have him locked in for the next two years and can’t wait to see what’s next under his guidance.” Stajcic said he was proud of the progress made in his first season in charge and is determined to build on that momentum heading into 2025/26. “I am extremely humbled to be given the opportunity to continue my journey at the club,” he said. “In such a privileged position, it’s been great to see the progress that we’ve made as a football club. It was extremely pleasing to see the A-League Men’s side achieve so much – from qualifying for the Finals Series, the undefeated run that spanned three months and the attacking intent and positivity within the team. However, the most rewarding aspects this season have been the return of fan engagement and strong crowd numbers towards the end of the season, and most importantly, the culture and leadership developed by the staff and players. There’s still plenty of work to do, and I can’t wait for the 2025/26 A-Leagues season to begin.”

FOOTBALL: Western Sydney have confirmed the departures of Marcus Antonsson, Jack Clisby, Dean Pelekanos, Jeong Tae-Wook and Taiga Harper at the end of their A-League contracts. Antonsson departs the club after two seasons in Western Sydney, having made 50 domestic appearances and scoring 12 goals. Clisby concludes his second

stint with the Wanderers, having re-joined the club ahead of the 2023/24 season. Pelekanos also departs the club after featuring in 14 matches. Tae-Wook will return to Jeonbuk Motors following the end of his loan spell, while Harper departs following the conclusion of his scholarship contract. The Wanderers thanked all five players for their contribution and wished them the best in the next chapter of their careers. The club said it remains in ongoing discussions with the remaining players whose contracts conclude at the end of the 2024/25 A-League season.

NETBALL: Giants Netball have recorded just their second win of the season, defeating the Adelaide Thunderbirds 66-63 last Sunday afternoon in the Super Netball. It was a rollercoaster of a game, with both sides enjoying the lead multiple times throughout the contest. In the end, it was the Giants’ ability to a hit a Super Shot that got them over the line. The Giants will return home this Sunday to face-off with old foes the Sunshine Coast Lightning at Ken Rosewall Arena.

NETBALL: Panthers Netball have had a mixed night of results in Round 13 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition. Up against the UTS Randwick Sparks, the

Panthers Opens team went down 58-45. It was better news for the undefeated Panthers U23s team, defeating the Sparks 55-52. Panthers will return to Netball Central in Round 14 to take on the ERNA Hawks.

AFL: Port Adelaide have come to Canberra and sent shockwaves through the GWS Giants, winning 66-50 last Saturday night at Manuka Oval. Port Adelaide snapped a four-game losing streak in the low-scoring affair, which saw the Giants lose their skipper Toby Greene to injury at half-time. Greene is now in doubt for this weekend’s game against Brisbane with a corked left glute. The seventh-placed Giants will take on the second-placed Lions this Saturday afternoon at the GABBA.

TENNIS: Nepean Tennis’ Coco Purcell travelled down to the nation’s capital earlier this month to compete in the J250 competition at Tennis World Canberra. Coco performed extremely well, winning the U16s Girls event against the top seed in a super tie break 6-4, 4-6, (10-5). Her success didn’t stop there; Coco was also a quarter finalist in the Women’s Open division and also a finalist in the Open Women’s Doubles division. The result is a true reflection of the hard work and dedication that Coco puts into her tennis.

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers

Harvey Norman’s NSW Women’s Premiership team have enjoyed a win in their debut match, defeating the Dragons 32-4 in a trial game last Saturday afternoon. Ahead of their maiden NSW Women’s Premiership season, the Panthers faced the Dragons in their first trial match and hit the ground running with a dominant performance. The rampant Panthers scored an eight-try haul across four 20-minute quarters, with neither team kicking for goals. The Panthers inaugural NSW Women’s Premiership season kicks off on Sunday, July 6 when they face Central Coast Roosters at Woy Woy Oval in Round 1.

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.

Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Alen Stajcic. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Young tennis star Coco Purcell.

The Penrith Panthers women’s team.

SPORT

Penrith’s #1 NRL Coverage –Extra Time – see centre pull-out

THE FINAL WHISTLE

After nearly 20 years in rugby league officiating, Penrith Referees’ Association stalwart Cam Turner has officially blown full-time on his remarkable career.

33-year-old Turner, who also works as a local high school PE teacher, decided to pull the pin after two decades last month to focus on other sporting interests.

“I’m heavily involved in OzTag; I run Nepean OzTag,” he told the Weekender

“I’m down at the fields managing competitions every night, coaching representative teams, and refereeing OzTag at a

high level as well. There’s plenty of opportunities at other sports, so I’ve decided it’s time to focus on those.”

Turner first picked up whistle as a 14-year-old back in 2006 – following in the footsteps of his famous father Russell Turner, who was a touch judge in more than 400 NRL games plus State of Origin clashes across his decorated career.

Turner said his dad was a huge inspiration to him.

“Dad got me into it,” he said.

“When I started in footy, I didn’t like it. It used to be a punishment. Mum would always say, ‘when you muck around, you’re going to footy with Dad’.”

Stuck at a footy field all day long with his

brother, Turner decided he may as well start having an interest in rugby league –even if it was just to earn some extra pocket money on the side.

Turner eventually made his way through the grades and his potential was evident at NSW All Schools Carnivals, earning him promotion to the NSW Junior Representatives in 2014.

By 2015, he was a touch judge in the Harold Matthews Cup Grand Final, followed by appointments in top-tier junior and schoolboy fixtures.

Turner’s representative portfolio grew to include the Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League Championships in 2016 and 2018, and notably the 2018 SG Ball Grand

Final, where he was awarded the prestigious Frank Walsh Trophy.

“The SG Ball Grand Final in 2018 was a career highlight,” Turner said.

“It means you’re the best referee at junior rep level.

“That game featured a lot of future NRL players like Matt Burton and Stephen Crichton. Panthers won that.”

In 2019, Turner was added to the NSW High Performance Squad, officiating major matches including the U18 Girls Origin, Women’s City v Country, and the Harvey Norman’s NSW Premiership Grand Final.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Story continues on » p. 62 Russell and Cam Turner.

Photo: Megan Dunn.