Western Weekender May 15 2025

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the western Thursday, May 15, 2025

The Voice of Penrith

westernweekender.com.au

Penrith’s leading coverage of the NRL! Page 31

VALLEY VIBES

“We have a lot to offer”. That’s the message from businesses in the Penrith CBD as they launch The Valley Entertainment Precinct, aiming to capture more visitors from not just western Sydney, but across Australia and even the world.

Ally Hall reports on Page 5 Representatives from businesses involved in The Valley Entertainment Precinct. Photo: Melinda Jane.

WIN GLOW TICKETS Weekender giveaway: Page 10

OFF TO THE RACES? Golf club’s future: Pages 12-13

SHOWING THEIR MUSCLE Car club donation: Page 20

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

Developer: Let’s go higher Push for approved unit development in Penrith to jump from 10 to 14 storeys EMILY CHATE

A

major development slated for Penrith has submitted a proposal to get even bigger.

Mayfair on Penrith was approved in 2024 to be a two towered, 10-storey precinct on the northern side of Penrith Train Station at 160-172 Lord Sheffield Circuit in Thornton.

The development was originally approved to deliver 287 apartments, some of which would be affordable housing, as well as rooftop pools on both buildings.

The east tower originally planned to consist of eight levels above a joint commercial podium, with 152 apartments, common circulation areas, a rooftop open space and swimming pool.

The west tower was to feature 135 apartments common circulation areas, a rooftop space and pool.

Beneath, the joint commercial space was proposed to feature 14 ground level units and flexible commercial floorspace.

The developers, Urban Property Development, have now lodged a second application to the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority to increase the building height by four storeys to accommodate an additional 144 apartments with 76 of those being labelled as “affordable”. If approved, the complex would have 431 apartments in total.

The proposed Mayfair on Penrith development.

“The proposed development seeks to optimise the use of the strategically located site in the North Penrith Precinct into a true transit-orientated [development] by increasing the number of dwellings on offer while retaining design excellence and other public benefits of the original consent,” the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) attached to the State

The development in Thornton.

Significant Development Application (SSDA) said.

“Comprising 14 storeys, the development will deliver 431 residential apartments, including 15 per cent affordable housing, alongside retail and commercial spaces that activate the ground plane.”

The SSDA also proposes minor exterior

design changes as well as an increase of 102 car parking spaces in the basement levels, bringing the total number of spaces to just over 500.

The application is currently on public exhibition until Wednesday, May 21.

View the plans and provide feedback at https://shorturl.at/zfzDp.

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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

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Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor | Journalist: Emily Chate | Journalist: Ally Hall |

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Photographer: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622 Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Maria Van Den Broek, Callum Gilbert, Rebecca Vella To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Kacey Wilson, Madeline Dantier, Ian Beard

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

How to reach the missing voters I ’ve been thinking a lot since the Federal Election about the 11,000 people or so in Lindsay whose vote meant nothing.

11,371 people – 10.9 per cent of the vote – voted informally based on latest numbers.

Some perhaps by accident, but most of them likely deliberately.

Those 11,371 votes could have changed the outcome of the election in Lindsay.

Ironically, a big chunk of those 11,371 are probably the loudest when it comes to complaining about politicians and what they do or don’t do for you.

Truth is most of the complaining about politicians is all embedded in myth.

The current sitting Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh has been at the centre of much of these myths and unwarranted criticism for some time.

“You never see her anywhere,” some locals scream on social media.

“She’s only ever around if there’s a photo opportunity.”

That argument has never, and will never make sense, by the way.

The photo opportunity proves she was indeed somewhere, does it not?

In fact the photo opportunity only exists to assure you that the local MP was doing something, which in the same breath you claim they were not doing.

I’m not sure what people expect when they trot out that line about “never seeing them” when it comes to their local MP. Do you expect to run into your local MP doing the groceries or filling up the car, constantly? If you did, one of you would probably be on police charges.

Where are these mythical locations where you desperately want to run into your local MP for a chin wag?

Do you want them to give you a buzz every couple of weeks to check in? Door knock monthly?

Take me through your day, your routine and your schedule and explain how and why you’d see said MP more often?

What you actually want is for them to be attending important events and representing community expectations.

Even on the Weekender’s social media

INDEX

channels, people scream the “you never see her” line.

Intriguing, because we have ran literally hundreds of stories on Melissa McIntosh since she became the MP. In other words, you have a local newspaper that can prove to you that the local MP is indeed somewhere, and doing something.

But I guess that’s just a photo opportunity, so you’d rather that not happen.

In other words, you’d rather not see the proof they were doing something somewhere, and instead try to enforce the myth that they were nowhere.

What a weird circle of thought it is.

When you actually unpack that sentiment, that you never see your local MP anywhere, it actually makes no sense.

“These people are the least engaged in the political process” Nor does the line that said MP has “not done anything for Penrith”.

The irony in Lindsay’s case is that it’s not actually up to Melissa McIntosh to deliver for Lindsay, it’s up to the sitting government of the day.

So if you believe that Penrith has been ignored, if you believe that Lindsay is falling behind, then the blame lays a little closer to the opposite side of the house. The one you support, I guess, if you’re making such a criticism.

Sure, it is up to Melissa McIntosh to advocate for Lindsay, but the ultimate decision of what to fund and deliver for this region comes down to the current Labor Government.

In other words, your verdict at the polling booth at the next election is actually not a referendum on Melissa McIntosh’s performance as much as it is on the government of the day and if they’ve delivered.

But politicians deal with these myths all the time.

Broken promises is another.

News..........................................................1-24 Business............................................25-30 Extra Time.........................................31-42

I assure you that you’ve probably broken more promises in your life than your average politician has.

Despite the myth, despite the stereotypical lines, governments by and large do actually deliver most of their election commitments.

But back to those 11,371 people, many of whom drew pictures of a penis on their ballot paper or some sort of other creative artwork.

How do political parties reach these 11,371 people?

Presumably, these are the least engaged people in the political process.

They’re not reading the pages of the Weekender each week, or at least not the political stories.

For some context, more people voted informally in Lindsay than voted for any minor party candidate or independent.

With 30,090 first preference votes for Labor’s Hollie McLean and 37,384 votes for McIntosh, you can see the difference those 11,371 votes can make.

The best of the minor parties in Penrith was the Greens, with its candidate Aaron McAllister grabbing around 9.5 per cent of the vote with 8,854 first preference votes based on the latest count.

Yep, some 2,500 votes behind the informal count.

I’m not sure I have the answers here, other than to say that 10.9 per cent is an extraordinary number of informal votes.

Neighbouring seats like Macquarie had significantly less informal votes, with 4.1 per cent. Parramatta had 8.9 per cent.

All of this presents an opportunity.

That opportunity is reaching those disengaged voters.

For Labor, that is getting on the ground much earlier next time around with a local candidate. Eventually the party will realise that this cycle of late candidate selections is not working in Lindsay.

For smaller parties or independents, it offers proof that the votes are out there. It’s just about running professional, effective campaigns and proving you could make a difference.

As for the Coalition, it probably all comes down to specialising in myth busting.

Entertainment..............................43-50 National Volunteer Week.....51-52 Western Property......................53-59

$25

Tanya Davies MP Member for Badgerys Creek

anya

Contact T

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au

­

­

(02) 9834 2966 (02) 9834 6291

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au

55487

Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road, St Clair NSW 2759 55483

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The Experts....................................60-61 Relax & Unwind..........................62-68 Sport......................................................69-72

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

LOCAL NEWS

Bringing the CBD to life with The Valley Entertainment Precinct ALLY HALL

P

enrith is set to take-off when the Western Sydney International Airport begins operating, with the economic catchment forecast to double by over one million people by 2031.

A group of local business owners along High Street have formed The Valley Entertainment Precinct in preparation for the tourism boom, with a vision to nurture a flourishing and safe 24-hour precinct in the heart of western Sydney.

District Coordinator Jessica Jenkins said the process began with a government program and a grant.

“The New South Wales Government and the 24-Hour Economy team did an Accelerator Program – they want city centres and nightlife to be re-invigorated,” Jenkins explained.

“Myself and a couple of others from our precinct went through the program and learnt about marketing, AI, grant writing, activations, running events, and so many different things.”

After that, it was time to submit a grant application to obtain funds to propel Penrith’s CBD forward with a website and marketing materials.

With support from the Penrith Valley Chamber, the application was successful.

Jessica Jenkins is one of the driving forces behind The Valley Entertainment Precinct.

“We’re not a massive city centre, but for the size of us, we have a lot to offer,” Jenkins exclaimed.

“We are a hyper-local precinct and we’re looking to encourage visitation from people around not just western Sydney, but greater western Sydney, Sydney, and eventually visitors from the airport coming soon.”

Sitting across from Jenkins at Elton Chong

after a stroll along High Street, her excitement and passion for the future of the precinct was palpable.

“I feel like we’ve got some power back,” Jenkins stated.

“For me, it was about getting a collective of businesses together so that we felt like we had a bit more of a voice when it came to dealing with Council and getting things done.”

Penrith’s CBD also benefits from the wide range of activities and entertainment on offer outside of the city itself.

“When I look at Penrith as a whole, I see all these little precincts that we could interconnect,” Jenkins said.

The website has now gone live, and the next big step is the activations.

“We really want to activate our city centre and have more music, better lighting on the street, awnings, and a bit more influence in getting things moving with fixing up High Street and getting it looking as good as all the venues look inside,” Jenkins said.

“We need to be a little bit more understanding of how much of an asset all these businesses are. A lot of places don’t have functioning High Streets anymore, and we don’t want to lose ours.”

Those involved in the project include Elton Chong, Chechos, The Flower Shop, Mr Watkins, Pinot and Picasso, Harry Hartog, Henri Marc, Theo’s, Berry on High, High St Depot, Tins & Wood, Reset, Halo Hair and Body Co, Unwind, Reformer X Pilates, Salon Kiin, Harry Hartog, Finders Keepers, Wicked Ink, Astina Suites and Quest Apartments.

The Valley Entertainment Precinct aims to ensure long-term success and enhancement of the Penrith CBD. Check out the newly launched website at www.thevalleyprecinct.com.au.

You’re invited

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RSVP is essential! Call 1800 550 550 or visit keyton.com.au/openday

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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LAWandORDER Police Snapshot

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

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Legal Matters

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Penrith: Two women arrested after being caught in unit basement At 5.20am on Wednesday, May 7 a man went into the basement car park of his unit block on Higgins Street in Penrith.

As the man walked towards his car, he could hear noises in the back of the basement and saw two women inside a storage cage.

The man called police who arrived a short time later.

As police arrived, a 26-year-old Kingswood woman and a 33-year-old woman were attempting to climb out of the basement using a bin.

Both women were arrested, and checks revealed the 33-year-old had an outstanding warrant.

The 26-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court today.

The 33-year-old was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, June 19.

Jamisontown: Thief caught on CCTV cameras; one remains in the wind At 3.30am on Thursday, May 8 two men were caught on CCTV entering a construction site on Mulgoa Road, Jamisontown.

The two men were seen taking copper wiring, a concrete saw and other items from the construction site and loading them onto a small truck.

At 6am on Thursday, May 8 the Site Manager reviewed the CCTV and noticed that the vehicle the stolen items were loaded onto was parked in a car park nearby.

The Site Manager walked up to the truck and saw the stolen property on the back of the truck. The Site Manager then contacted police.

Police arrived and a 36-year-old North Richmond man, who was seen stealing the items, locked himself inside a room of a nearby motel. He was identified from the CCTV footage as he was still wearing the same clothing.

Police knocked on the door of the motel room several times before the man finally exited.

Police arrested the man. The 36-year-old was searched and police allegedly found methylamphetamines on him.

The man was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, June 2.

Kingswood: Man wearing three pairs of shorts found with knife

Penrith: Man caught stealing inside major shopping centre At 2pm on Saturday, May 10 a 37-year-old Tregear man and woman entered a major shopping centre on High Street in Penrith.

The pair then went into a department store inside the shopping centre.

Inside the department store the man placed a $400 North Face brand jacket and a $139 white shirt into his bag.

The man made no effort to pay for the items as he left the store.

Staff contacted police and security. The man and woman were later found in a loading dock at the centre where they were arrested.

Police found the stolen jacket with the tags still attached a short distance from the pair as well as a shopping trolley with items that had their tags still attached. The pair were asked about the other items, and they could not produce any receipts or proof of purchase.

The man was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, May 29.

Police celebrate 100 years of road safety initiatives with convoy The NSW Police Force is celebrating 100 years of commitment to road safety initiatives, honouring the dedication of its traffic officers and exploring new technologies to further reduce road trauma.

This year marks 100 years of Road Safety in the NSW Police Force and 50 years since the establishment of what is now known as the Traffic & Highway Patrol Command.

More than 50 NSW Police vehicles, including 24 motorcycles and 11 privately-owned historic police cars, drove in convoy across Sydney on Monday to mark the milestone.

WW55044

At 5.10pm on Friday, May 9 police were

patrolling in Kingswood and saw two men standing outside a licenced premises.

As police approached the pair, they walked off.

A short time later, police found the two men at Kingswood Train Station where they stopped to speak with them.

One of the men, a 27-year-old Emu Plains man, was searched and he was found to be wearing three pairs of shorts.

In the pocket of the third pair of shorts police found a car key.

The 27-year-old is not known to own a car or hold a driver’s licence. Police searched the backpack the man was carrying and found a green coloured retractable knife.

The 27-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, June 6.

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

WHAT CAN I DO IF MY NEIGHBOUR’S TREE IS CAUSING ISSUES FOR ME? If a neighbouring tree is overhanging your fence or its roots are encroaching onto your property in New South Wales, you have several legal and practical options. The law in NSW is governed by both common law principles (cases that have been determined by the Courts) and the Trees (Disputes Between Neighbours) Act 2006 (NSW) (“Trees Act”).

Here is a summary of your options and key considerations: 1. Self-Help (Abatement) – Common Law Rights • You may prune branches or roots that encroach onto your property, but only up to the boundary line. You must not enter your neighbour’s land without permission, as this would be trespass.

• The pruned material (branches, roots, fruit) remains the property of the tree owner. You should offer to return it to them, but if they do not want it, you may dispose of it yourself.

• Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the tree. There is actually an Australian Standard which should be complied with - Australian Standard for Pruning of Amenity Trees (AS 4373-2007).

• You do not need your neighbour’s permission to prune overhanging branches or encroaching roots, but it is considered neighbourly to inform them beforehand.

2. Council Permits and Tree Protection Orders • Many local councils in NSW have tree preservation orders or require permits for pruning or removing certain trees, especially if they are native, significant, or heritage-listed. Before undertaking any work, check with your local council to ensure compliance and avoid fines.

• Some species are exempt or even clas-

sified as noxious, in which case council approval may not be required.

3. Application to the Land and Environment Court (Trees Act) If the issue cannot be resolved amicably or by self-help, you can apply to the Land and Environment Court under the Trees Act for orders requiring the tree owner to: • Prune or remove the tree, • Prevent or remedy damage to your property, • Compensate you for damage already caused.

The Trees Act applies to trees on private land in residential, business, or industrial zones (not rural land or council-owned trees).

The applicant must be the owner or occupier of the affected property.

The Court will consider whether you have made reasonable attempts to resolve the dispute directly with your neighbour before applying.

Importantly, the Court can override council tree protection orders if necessary.

4. Damages for Nuisance or Negligence • If the tree has caused actual damage (e.g., to pipes, foundations, fences), you may have a claim in nuisance or negligence for compensation. The success of such a claim depends on foreseeability (should/ could the owner of the tree have foreseen the damage that would/could occur) and whether the tree owner knew or should have known of the risk.

These matters are fraught with difficulty.

You should always try to resolve the issue amicably with your neighbour.

We recommend that you keep records of communications, photographs of the encroachment/damage, and any expert reports.

If that doesn’t work, contact a lawyer.

PENRITH CIVIC CENTRE TURNS YELLOW Penrith City Council is urging its community members to take care on our roads and ‘drive so others survive’ in recognition of National Road Safety Week.

As a symbol of support during National Road Safety Week, the Civic Centre at High

Street, Penrith will be lit in yellow, the colour of the campaign.

“People often get complacent when they drive as it’s part of their everyday routine and that is how accidents happen,” Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said.

WW56179

SUNDAY 1 JUNE | 4:05PM COMMBANK STADIUM

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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

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

Meeting Dates 26 May 2025 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

Council Briefs ● Have your say on our Penrith and St Marys 24-hour Economy Strategy 2025–2029. Your feedback will help us to make our city centres just as vibrant, productive and diverse in the night-time as they are throughout the day.

Council at its Ordinary Meeting of 3 March 2025 resolved to publicly exhibit the Planning Proposal.

Complete the survey to go into the draw for a chance to win one of 10 vouchers to a Penrith or St Marys restaurant valued at $50 each. (T&Cs apply).

The Planning Proposal and supporting information are on public exhibition from Friday 16 May 2025 to Monday 16 June 2025 and can be viewed:

Community consultation closes at 11:59pm on Friday 13 June 2025. Find out more at: ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢʥʧ˛ˢ˨˥˘˖ˢˡˢˠˬ˦˧˥˔˧˘˚ˬ

• Online: ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨

● Join us over the June long weekend for Winter Solstice happening from Friday 6 June to Monday 9 June at City Park, Penrith!

City Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland with an ice-skating rink, snow machines, live music and roving performers! There’s plenty of free family-friendly entertainment and activities for all to enjoy. You won’t want to miss this exciting event that marks the beginning of winter!

• Friday 6 June to Sunday 8 June: 4–9pm • Monday 9 June: 10am–3pm • Ice skating rink (bookings requied) Friday–Sunday: 12noon–9pm and Monday: 9am–4pm For more information, please visit ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˘˩˘ˡ˧˦ ● Last year we consulted widely to understand the community’s vision for the future. You told us your vision is: We are proud to be Penrith – a great place to live, a region of opportunity and connection. Our community and City are thriving. We care for each other and our place.

This is a strong vision for the future and we have developed a new suite of Integrated Planning and Reporting documents to help us achieve this. These documents are on public exhibition for feedback from until Wednesday 28 May 2025.

Visit ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʥʣʧʤ to learn more or view the documents at the Penrith Civic Centre, St Marys ʵ˨˦˜ˡ˘˦˦ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ ˢ˥ ˔ˡˬ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʶ˜˧ˬ ʿ˜˕˥˔˥ˬʡ

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil

Public Exhibitions

penrithcitycouncil

˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˃˥ˢˣˢ˦˔˟ ϝ ʸˠˣ˟ˢˬˠ˘ˡ˧ ˍˢˡ˘˦ ˅˘˩˜˘˪

penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s (DPHI), and includes the outcomes from Council’s review of employment lands across the city.

Council invites you to view and provide feedback on a Planning Proposal that seeks to amend Penrith Local Environmental Plan (LEP 2010) to align with the outcomes of a review of its employment lands.

The Planning Proposal responds to the relevant actions of Council’s adopted Employment Lands Strategy and Green Grid Strategy, addresses community submissions made

Following the public exhibition, the outcomes of the exhibition will be reported to Council for consideration.

• ʼˡ ˣ˘˥˦ˢˡʭ Penrith Civic Centre, Penrith Library and St Marys Library Written submissions may be made to Council by 5pm, Monday 16 June 2025 via: • Email: ˖˜˧ˬʡˣ˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ • Post: The General Manager (Attention City Planning – Owen Lay) Penrith City Council PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 Please include a subject line indicating ‘Planning Proposal – Employment Zones Review’ in your submission and ATTN to City Planning – Owen Lay. For further enquiries: Owen Lay, Planner on 4732 7612 or ˢ˪˘ˡʡ˟˔ˬʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

ʷ˥˔˙˧ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ʴ˚˥˘˘ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˙ˢ˥ ˆ˧˔˚˘ ʤ ˔ˡ˗ ʥ ˢ˙ ʿ˘˚˔˖ˬ ˃˥ˢˣ˘˥˧ˬ ˗˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˜ˡ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ˁˢ˥˧˛ Penrith City Council is publicly notifying a draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Council and LegPro Pty Ltd (known as Legacy Property).

The draft VPA has been prepared in connection with approved Development Applications DA23/0969 and DA24/0041. The development is located within the Orchard Hills North Precinct, fronting Caddens Road and is subject to Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 (Amendment No. 29) which took effect on 1 October 2023.

The draft VPA sets out mechanisms for the timing and delivery of road works, stormwater infrastructure and land dedication ˜˗˘ˡ˧˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˗˥˔˙˧ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ˁˢ˥˧˛ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ Contributions Plan. The draft VPA also includes a mechanism for the consideration of contribution offsets and credits and ˧˛˘ ˣ˥ˢ˩˜˦˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ ˔˗˗˜˧˜ˢˡ˔˟ ˣ˨˕˟˜˖ ˕˘ˡ˘Ѓ˧˦ʡ A copy of the draft VPA and explanatory note can be viewed on Council's YourSay page. ˇ˛˘ ˡˢ˧˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ ˜˦ ˙˥ˢˠ ˇ˛˨˥˦˗˔ˬ ʤ ˀ˔ˬ ʥʣʥʨ ˧ˢ Thursday 29 May 2025.

For further enquiries: Natalie Stanowski, City Planning Coordinator on 4732 7403 or ˡ˔˧˔˟˜˘ʡ˦˧˔ˡˢ˪˦˞˜ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ WW56200

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

RSL will keep its groove on Club boss assures worried dancers they’ll be rocking again before year’s end ALLY HALL

P

enrith RSL has promised its regular rock ‘n’ roll afternoons will return once the club’s refurbishment is complete.

The Weekender has received an influx of calls and emails from those who take part in the fun Saturday afternoon activity, concerned that the music was about to be turned off and dancing halted for good.

‘Saturday Classics’ – a weekly rock ‘n’ roll afternoon with live music from 2pm to 5pm at the Castle Lounge – has been loved by members for years.

Penrith RSL member Louise Frankland explained the activity provides a social avenue for people to meet and tackle health issues.

“It’s a good mental health outlet for people with depression or anxiety. It’s very good for physical health conditions, like osteoporosis, and it’s good for emotional health,” Frankland stated.

“I got a membership because I wanted to keep going back on a regular basis – that’s the only reason why I go there.”

‘Saturday Classics’ gets a crowd of

Penrith RSL is currently undergoing major renovations. Photo: Melinda Jane.

roughly 60 to 100 people every week, with some travelling a long way to make it.

“I’m in Lawson in the Blue Moun-

tains. We have a great community here, but we don’t have many dance floors,” Frankland said.

“We have one tiny dance floor at

Katoomba RSL and it’s smaller than a small bedroom.

“That’s the only dance floor that the Blue Mountains has, and

that’s another reason why we go to Penrith.

“My concern is that rock ‘n’ roll will slowly become less and less important to the RSL at Penrith and that they will not continue to have the bands even though they say they will.”

But the RSL has assured its members it intends to continue the music and dancing once its renovations are finalised.

“We have the big expansion, which is finishing in July, and straight after we’re renovating inside the club,” Penrith RSL CEO, Neel Chand told the Weekender.

“Part of the renovation is Castle Lounge where the entertainment is, and it’s going to be out of action for a couple of months.”

This will halt activity in the Lounge, but a promise has been made that it will come back bigger and better than before.

“We are not getting rid of our entertainment, we’re just going through a major renovation, and once it’s done, the rock ‘n’ roll will be back – I can absolutely guarantee that. By the end of this year, I’m confident it will be back,” Chand finalised.

Public Exhibitions (cont.)

Draft Amendment to Penrith Development Control Plan 2014 Council invites you to view and provide feedback on a draft amendment to Penrith Development Control Plan (DCP) 2014 relating to:

• Part D Land Use Controls, Chapter D5 Other Land Uses, Section 5.2 Child Care Centres The draft amendment to Section 5.2 Child Care Centres includes updates to provide improved clarity and support in the preparation and assessment of child care centre proposals.

• Part E Key Precincts, Chapters E7 Part C Glenmore Park Stage 3 and E17 Orchard Hills North The draft amendment to Chapters E7 Glenmore Park Stage 3 and E17 Orchard Hills North are minor housekeeping matters, including an updated reference to a technical study and corrections to a duplicated control.

As its Ordinary Meeting of 28 April 2025, Council resolved to publicly exhibit the draft amendment. The draft amendment to Penrith DCP 2014 is on public exhibition from Friday 16 May 2025 to Monday 16 June 2025 and can be viewed: • Online: yoursaypenrith.com.au • In person: Penrith Civic Centre, Penrith Library and St Marys Library Written submissions may be made to Council by 5pm, Monday 16 June 2025 by: • Email: city.planning@penrith.city • Post: The General Manager (Attn: City Planning – Prudence Hudson) Penrith City Council PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 Please include a subject line indicating ‘Draft Amendment to 5.2 Child Care Centres and Minor Housekeeping’ in your submission and ATTN to City Planning – Prudence Hudson.

For further enquiries: Prudence Hudson, Senior Planner on 4732 7701 or prudence.hudson@penrith.city or Owen Lay, Planner on 4732 7612 or owen.lay@penrith.city

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

9

Joke of the Week

prize cupboard

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LOW is back, and it’s lighting up Sydney Zoo in Eastern Creek like never before

until May 31.

This year, GLOW is shining brighter than ever before, featuring over 200 brand-new animal lanterns and interactive light sculptures, handcrafted from enough fabric to cover more than six football fields.

These vibrant works of art have been brought to life through a creative collaboration between local and international artists.

Each lantern is meticulously hand-painted and paired with immersive soundscapes and lighting to create an unforgettable journey through colour, light, and imagination.

Guests will follow the immersive GLOW Light Walk,

venturing through a glowing path of wonder. Step through the jaws of a colossal crocodile, slide through the tentacles of a towering octopus, and watch hundreds of illuminated butterflies flutter in

a dazzling display of motion.

Along the way, don’t miss the Smooth FM Roller Rink, the magical aquarium after-dark experience, and the chance to explore the largest Reptile and Nocturnal House in the world.

Q: What did the furniture salesman say to the robber?

A: Please, take a seat!

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

The excitement continues in the vibrant GLOW Zone, where guests can enjoy thrilling rides, plenty of FREE activities, and endless Instagram-worthy moments. Light up a glowing heart in a rhythmic drumming

race, make music on a giant walkable piano, and slide through the colourful Carnival Cruise Line Funcastle. Don’t forget to take in the view from the glowing 7NEWS Ferris Wheel, then grab a bite from a range of food trucks or unwind at the GLOW Bar. Head to www.sydneyzoo.com/ GLOW to buy tickets.

The Weekender has two family passes to GLOW to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender. com.au with ‘Glow’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details.

Entries close Wednesday, May 21 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

lucky paceway winners

Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender.

Club members can pick up a free specially numbered

I SPY

bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.

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

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

This week’s lucky winners are: 0564, 0786, 0990.

Dose of Dorin

Do you know where this picture was taken?

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

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The image was taken at Governor Phillip Manor, an aged care facility in Glebe Place, Penrith.

Connect with us online...

10

Thumbs down to the people who abused staff at a Penrith cafe last Sunday because they couldn’t get a table straight away on Mother’s Day. They didn’t make a booking.

www.westernweekender.com.au facebook.com/westernweekender

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

@wwpenrith @westernweekender

All the local schools who got behind Mother’s Day last week and sent home awesome gifts. It’s great to see schools sticking with and even growing such traditions.

@westernweekender @westernweekender

LOCAL NEWS

Penrith’s feeling green with more than 6,000 trees planted O

ver 6,000 trees have been planted in heat vulnerable suburbs across Penrith over the last five years in an effort to boost natural cooling.

Penrith City Council’s ‘Greening our City’ tree planting program has planted 6,600 trees in targeted suburbs identified by Council as having low tree canopy and susceptible to heat risks.

The ‘Be Cool to School’ program, which concluded last year, saw 1,971 trees planted in Cambridge Park, specifically on nature strips along active transport routes, streets linking parks, shops and schools and along walking routes through parks in the suburb.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the nearly 2,000 trees planted would have a positive impact for residents in Cambridge Park.

“Our community members at Cambridge Park were thrilled to see Council taking a proactive approach to increasing tree canopy and reducing the potential for heat in the area.,” he said.

“We also had residents request additional trees to be planted outside of their houses, which we were able to accommodate.”

The majority of the plantings have successfully established and boosted biodiversity and shade in the area.

The NSW Government has invested $614,000 to the ‘Be Cool to School’ program to assist in combating Penrith’s heat, according to Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully.

“In January 2020, Penrith was the hottest place on Earth, so it’s important we use every tool in our arsenal to combat urban heat,” Scully said.

“Delivering more trees means cooler suburbs, increased shade and better public spaces for people, birds and wildlife.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said the project is a great initiative to combat urban heat in the area.

“These trees have not only enhanced the look of our neighbourhoods, but they’re proven to have a natural cooling effect,” McKeown said.

“Penrith residents know the effects

of urban heating all too well, so I’m proud to be part of a government that is taking action to combat its effect.”

The ‘Greening our City’ tree planting program has seen trees planted in Erskine Park, St Clair, Colyton, North St Marys, Oxley Park, and

Cambridge Park since 2020.

For more information about the program, visit www.yoursaypenrith.com.au/greeningourcity.

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Penrith Mayor Todd Carney and Member for Penrith Karen McKeown at Lincoln Park, Cambridge Park where trees were planted as part of the program.

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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EMILY CHATE

11

LOCAL NEWS

Turf Club wants to back • Exclusive new details about the $370 million plan for the ATC to buy Penrith TROY DODDS

P

enrith Golf Club would only be sold if a new golf course of equal or better standard than the current facility on The Northern Road was built in the area, its owners say.

The Australian Turf Club (ATC) and Seven Hills RSL, which owns Penrith Golf Club, have entered a Memorandum of Understanding that would see the golf course sold for $370 million with a new racing and training precinct to be built on the site.

ATC members will vote on May 27 on whether they will give the green light for the famous Rosehill Gardens racecourse to be sold for $5 billion to the State Government.

If members vote for the sale to go ahead, the ATC will push to buy Penrith Golf Club and turn it into a thoroughbred training centre with capacity for more than 300 stables, with the site also able to be used as an alternate Sydney race track.

“While these discussions are in early stages, we’re excited about the potential that benefits the racing industry, ATC and Penrith

The proposed new facility for Penrith.

0ɴȵƺȸǣƺȇƬƺ Ɏǝƺ ɖǼɎǣȅƏɎƺ ƬȒȅƫǣȇƏɎǣȒȇ Ȓǔ ƬȸƏǔɎ ƫƺƺȸ ƏȇƳ ȅȒɖɎǝɯƏɎƺȸǣȇǕ ª ƏɎ «ɖɀɎɵ ¨ƺȇȇɵ ȸƺɯƺȸɵ ۭ ³ȅȒǸƺǝȒɖɀƺِ áǝƺɎǝƺȸ ɵȒɖٔȸƺ ƬȸƏɮǣȇǕ Ə ȵƺȸǔƺƬɎǼɵ ƫƏȸƫƺƬɖƺƳ áǝƺɎǝƺȸ ɵȒɖٔȸƺ ƬȸƏɮǣȇǕ Ə ȵƺȸǔƺƬɎǼɵ ƫƏȸƫƺƬɖƺƳ ƬɖɎ Ȓǔ ƫȸǣɀǸƺɎ Ȓȸ Ə ǼȒƬƏǼǼɵ ƫȸƺɯƺƳ ƬȒǼƳ Ȓȇƺً ɯƺٔɮƺ ǕȒɎ ɵȒɖ ƬȒɮƺȸƺƳِ

IȒǼǼȒɯ ɖɀ Ȓȇ ɀȒƬǣƏǼɀ ۬ȸɖɀɎɵȵƺȇȇɵƫȸƺɯǣȇǕ ɯɯɯِȸɖɀɎɵȵƺȇȇɵƫȸƺɯǣȇǕِƬȒȅِƏɖ

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12

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

a winner at golf course Golf Club • Residents express traffic concerns • Crucial vote to occur May 27 Golf Club Members, and the local community,” said ATC Chairman Peter McGauran.

“Penrith is one of the fastest growing population centres in NSW and ticks all the boxes in playing a key role for the next generation of racing.

“Our priority is to expand and enhance quality infrastructure for trainers and owners, who would be central to the design of a new facility.”

But the Weekender can reveal any sale would be subject to a number of conditions, including the construction of a brand new golf course in the Penrith area.

In addition, the ATC would have to demonstrate the benefits of the move to the City of Penrith and what the future may look like. This would include the benefits such as employment, tourism numbers, entertainment and the like.

Should a sale occur, Penrith Golf Club would remain in operation until the end of 2029.

A letter was sent to Penrith Golf Club members at 1am on Sunday morning, ahead of News Corp papers breaking the story later that day.

Golfers enjoy Penrith Golf Course on Monday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Members say this was the first they knew of the potential sale.

One member, who asked not to be named, told the Weekender better communication would have been preferred.

“It was completely out of the blue,” he said.

“I find it very strange, but Seven Hills are a commercial enterprise and if all the conditions are ripe...

they can do what they like with it.”

The member said Seven Hills RSL had invested heavily in the club and course in recent times and it would be disappointing to see it go.

“They have put a lot of money into the course. They’ve renovated the clubhouse, they’ve done lots of renovations on the course itself and they’ve put concrete pathways through the course, plus extra

dams. I’d be be disappointed if it happened. It’s more of a shock that they didn’t tell us. They obviously have known about this for some time, you don’t have a Memorandum of Understanding without some discussions over a period of time.

“We would have liked to have known this was in the wind before it hits the papers.”

In its letter to members, sighted by the Weekender, the Seven Hills RSL Board said it was entering into discussions given the involvement of the NSW Government and its desire to create more housing in Sydney.

“The Board asks the Members to understand that these discussions are at a preliminary stage only and many pieces would need to fall into place before any future sale may occur,” it said.

Glenmore Park local Nadine Chilvers is among those concerned about the potential development, particularly given the impact it would likely have on traffic on The Northern Road.

“Getting in and out of Glenmore Park is a nightmare at the best of times and I just think putting in

such a significant piece of infrastructure, whilst hugely beneficial to the region and to the Penrith area, without appropriate consideration and thought around egress for Glenmore Park residents in particular is just really narrow-sighted,” she said.

“It just doesn’t seem like a great location because it is so land-locked in terms of accessibility.”

ATC members have been presented with detailed information around the proposed sale of Rosehill to the NSW Government, including the ATC’s plans around improvements to Royal Randwick, major changes to Warwick Farm racecourse and a redevelopment of Canterbury Park.

“Many Members love Rosehill Gardens and are reluctant to see it go but the truth is it’s an outdated venue with declining crowds and this proposal can rejuvenate and secure the racing industry for many generations to come,” McGauran said.

As for Penrith Golf Club members, they will now watch the result of the May 27 vote with interest – now suddenly directly involved with its outcome.

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13

WW56122

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

Kids hit the pavement: Walk Safely to School Day returns

Well-dressed riders take to the roads for a hair-raising cause EMILY CHATE

T Principal Sergio Rosato and students. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

O

n May 16, you may notice some extra foot traffic in your neighbourhood for ‘Walk Safely to School Day’.

One of the participating schools is Bethany Catholic Primary School in Glenmore Park, where Principal Sergio Rosato is a big advocate for the special occasion.

“Walk Safely to School Day is an opportunity to build community. It’s also a great way of educating and informing children about road and pedestrian safety in a supportive way,” Rosato stated.

“It’s about making a learning experience fun, and then students can come to class and share it with their classmates and teachers.”

The morning feels like an adventure for children – many of whom don’t often get the opportunity to stretch their legs before the school day starts.

“We live in a time where walking isn’t generally the preferred way for children to get to school,” the principal explained.

“I know in this community, many of our children are driven to school by their parents, and some children catch the bus.”

The principal also explained how the campaign allows parents to build their children’s independence in a motivational way.

“Some will walk from their homes, and some will park their cars nearby and walk from there,” Rosato said.

“The bottom line is, when we walk, we walk together and we stick together, because that’s also a very important safety message for our children.”

‘Walk Safely to School Day’ is run annually by the Pedestrian Council of Australia (PCA).

The PCA CEO Harold Scruby encourages all Aussie families to give it a go.

“Walking is the best exercise we’ve got – and it’s free,” Scruby stated.

his Sunday if you see a horde of well-dressed gentleman riding vintage or classic motorbikes through Penrith, don’t be alarmed, it’s all for a good cause.

The annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride will set off across the globe on Sunday, May 18, bringing together over 120,000 riders from over 1,000 cities in 110 countries all to raise funds for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health programs through charity partner, Movember.

Organiser of the Penrith event, Frank Tidswell, said the charity ride first started over a decade ago in Sydney, organised by Mark Hawwa.

“The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, otherwise known as the DGR, is an event which started 13 years ago in Sydney with about a dozen riders, we raised about $500,” Tidswell said.

“It’s a charity fundraiser for men’s mental and physical health.”

On Sunday, May 18, nearly 100 dapperly dressed men

Frank Tidswell and Jessica Samson. Photo: Melinda Jane.

will gather at Sydney Helicopters in Castlereagh where they will don their cravats, tweak their moustaches, press their tweed and sit astride their classic and vintage style motorcycles ready to begin their ride.

“The event here in Penrith starts at Sydney Helicopters, who have kindly sponsored a bit of our event, and we end up having lunch up at Springwood at the Sports Club,” Tidswell said.

“So far, we’ve got about 70 riders signed up, which is about the same as last year, but we’ve still got a few days to go!”

Tidswell is looking forward

to setting off on his motorcycle on Sunday with his fellow dapper gentlemen, saying it is special to ride for a good cause.

“I enjoy offering my time and business sponsorship to a cause which I believe helps in an area of people’s health that is frequently forgotten and ignored particularly when it comes to mental health and suicide prevention,” Tidswell said.

“And I think it is a great way to get a whole lot of camaraderie happening between us dapper bike riders!”

To register to ride or to donate to the cause, visit www.gentlemansride.com.

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Function enquiries - galleryfunctions@penrith.city

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

15

EXPERIENCE PENRITH

Paint, sip and a lot of fun Journalist Ally Hall trades her notepad for a canvas at Pinot and Picasso Penrith ALLY HALL

W

ith squinted eyes, pursed lips, total concentration, and champagne in hand, I put paint to canvas at Pinot and Picasso.

I recently tried two painting classes at the High Street studio – the relaxed ‘Paint your Pet’ Sunday arvo session, and the groovy ‘Mamma Mia Nights’ Saturday sesh – each one vastly different.

Billie and Ally.

Let’s talk ‘Paint your Pet’ first! One week prior to the class, I submitted a photo of my cauliflower-eared tabby cat Nori. When I walked into the art studio, I found her image lightly sketched on a canvas.

“She guided the class through the painting process with patience I don’t think I’ll ever achieve” After I found my girl, I poured myself a glass of bubbles, donned my apron, got familiar with my paint brushes, and watched as everyone else located their fur babies (and one rooster).

Class started when everyone was ready, and a platinum-haired ball of enthusiasm and energy introduced herself as Kat, our instructor.

She guided the class through the painting process with patience I don’t think I’ll ever achieve.

She demonstrated each step

Pinot and Picasso is located on High Street in Penrith.

on a canvas in front of the class duo took care of us as we collectively before giving everyone time to attempted to paint while bopping follow the instructions. and singing along to the music – a We started with backgrounds, hard task, but one that paid off. then moved on to our pet’s base As class came to a close, I once colour before adding extra details again stood in front of a piece of and shading. art I never When you first begin, it’s hard to imagine the end result looking like your fur baby, but at the end of the class, I had a grey-haired, yellow-eyed tabby looking back at me.

She might not have looked as realistic as the white Maltese Shih Tzu to my right, or as lifelike as the blonde border collie across the room, but she was perfect to me.

After that, I decided one class wasn’t enough.

The next weekend I dawdled back into the studio for a session that would make ABBA proud.

With the Swedish pop group playing in the background, I once again had Kat instructing me with the help of Sarah, the newest addition to the P&P crew.

As Kat showed the class how to sketch the cave houses of Santorini topped with blue domes backlit by a sunset, Sarah ventured around the class offering advice and topping up paint.

The dynamic Ally Hall with her portrait of Nori.

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

thought I’d be capable of creating.

There’s a feeling of satisfaction you get after painting something at Pinot and Picasso – and that’s not just because of the wine.

It feels like a mindful activity as you focus solely on the task at hand, you surround yourself with like-minded people, and you finish the night with a sense of accomplishment.

Discover that for yourself at the art studio at 2C/458 High Street, Penrith.

LOCAL NEWS

Zooming in on photo club Sharp shooters: Local group has put a focus on photography for more than 30 years ALLY HALL

C

reativity and a camera are all you need at the Penrith RSL Photographic Club, which celebrated its 30th birthday earlier this month.

The club’s secretary Peter Thorpe has been with the group since its inception in the early 1990s, when it was known by a different name.

“I was a member of the Emus Photographic Club,” Thorpe began.

“We met on Andrews Road in the Emus Rugby Union complex. But, the football team got promoted to the Shute Shield competition in ’94, starting in ’95, and we were asked to move.

“We looked around for a different place and when we approached Penrith RSL in April 1995, they jumped at the chance.”

The first meeting of the Penrith RSL Photographic Club was held on May 1 that year, and ever since, the club has felt indebted to the Board that oversee their beloved venue.

“We meet twice a month and have guest speakers come in to

Members of the Penrith RSL Photographic Club. Photo: Melinda Jane.

deliver talks on various aspects of photography, whether it’s their fulltime job or just a hobby,” Thorpe explained.

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“We’ve had Navy and Air Force photographers come in, numerous landscape photographers, creative photographers, abstract photogra-

phers, underwater photographers – anything to do with photography, we get them to come in and give a chat.”

The group also have regular ‘show and tell’ nights to share what they’re working on, as well as competitions throughout the year.

“We don’t teach photography but being around other photographers and people with the same interests and passion, you pick up tips – especially when we’ve got guest speakers,” Thorpe stated.

“Also, when judges come to critique our competitions, we pick up their ideas about what is right or wrong with a photograph.”

But it’s not all about that for the long-serving club secretary.

Photography is also about preserving memories.

“You’re saving a record for history and you’re capturing something in a moment in time that’s passed, but you can look back on it,” Thorpe said.

The club now has over 50 members, and more are welcome.

From amateurs to pros, local photographers can attend some meetings to see if they would like to join the group.

Find the group’s syllabus online at penrithrsl.wixsite.com/photographic-club.

CONTACT US TODAY: Call 02 4721 0013 or text 0417 159 785 10/6 Harford Street, Penrith

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Hydrating the West for over 25 Years 17

LOCAL NEWS Drainage upgrades are a home run Penrith City Council has completed upgrades to the drainage system and playing surfaces at the Andrews Road Baseball Facility in Penrith.

These improvements will support the facility’s ability to recover after heavy rain, providing local teams with a more reliable playing surface.

“By improving the natural swales and retaining wall, we are preparing Andrews Road for the future and helping baseball players to get back on the field sooner,” said Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.

Council undertook the work after funding of $343,842 was provided by the State Government under its Essential Community Sports Assets Program.

EXPERTS TO SHARE VIEWS AT FORUM Penrith Women’s Health Centre in collaboration with partners in the Blue Mountains, Penrith and Hawkesbury will host the third annual Domestic and Family Violence Forum for practitioners, industry professionals and allies in Penrith next week.

This year’s theme ’Breaking Barriers’ will explore domestic and family violence within the context of people living with disabilities.

Industry practitioners and a panel of professionals will be giving their insights.

The event will be held on Thursday, May 22 at Astina Suites in Penrith.

Attendance is free but booking is required at https://bit.ly/forum-penrith

Platform for youth New housing to assist teenagers with transition to new lives EMILY CHATE

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local housing provider has received over $500,000 in funding from the State Government to provide more youth housing services in Penrith.

Platform Youth Services assists young people between the ages of 12 and 15 across Penrith, the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury experiencing homelessness through crisis and transitional accommodation services.

The State Government has awarded Platform Youth Services $532,000 through their Homelessness Innovation Fund to provide 24/7 supported and supervised medium-term accommodation for young people aged 16-19-years-old who are currently in crisis accommodation and are unable to access transitional or independent living due to age, life skills or complexities.

CEO of Platform Youth Services Stephanie Oatley said the introduction of six medium-term places will assist young people to transition into independent living.

“Crisis accommodation is staffed, it is very supported, and we tick off all the immediate needs but then transitional is like a flat on your own so there is this big gap between the two,” Oatley said.

“If you imagine a 16 or 17-year-old, they are not quite ready to go and live on their own, so

Platform Youth Service CEO Stephanie Oatley.

we asked for money to fund a medium-term service where there is staff available on site, and it is very focused on learning living skills but without all the crisis stuff.

“We’ve sorted out the young person’s immediate needs and now we’re going to have these younger people for a longer period of time and just work on that engagement of living skills so they can then move onto transitional accommodation.

“It’s a link between crisis accommodation and independence.”

Platform Youth Services will now continue advocating for medium-term accommodation to continue in Penrith and across the state.

“I’ve been in this space for 25 years and we have wanted this particular model of housing for 10 years. Every year for 10 years we were saying we need something in the middle,” Oatley said.

“We got the funding, now we just need to start advocating to keep the funding next year.

“While the young people are in the house, we are increasing tier living skills and we are engaging them with an outreach caseworker so the big jump from supported accommodation to independence isn’t so big.”

State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown congratulated Platform Youth Services on securing the funding and acknowledged how important it will be for the area.

“With increasing numbers of people sleeping rough across Penrith and our state, we’re making sure community housing providers are getting more support to drive innovation and reform to give people more certainty at one of the most difficult times of their lives,” McKeown said.

If you are someone you know if struggling, visit www.platformys.org.au for more information about support services.

DEAR WEEKENDER NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750 Trail bike issue grows

I write with deep concern and growing frustration over the escalating crisis involving stolen trail bikes being recklessly driven through our streets, terrorising residents and being used to commit crimes across the greater Penrith LGA. It is clear that frontline police officers are now hesitant to act. And who could blame them? Why would any officer risk their career, mortgage, and livelihood in an environment where doing their job could result in prosecution? This legal paralysis has emboldened offenders. These criminals now know they can act with near impunity. Residents report groups of unhelmeted riders brazenly committing crimes, putting pedestrians and drivers at serious risk, and using these bikes to facilitate break and enters. Yet when concerned members of the public call Penrith Police Station, they are told that nothing can be done – no pursuit, no action. This is utterly unacceptable. I ask our local member and Deputy Premier, Prue Car: what are we supposed to do? Because “call the police” is no longer a viable response. Police are effectively being told to stand down, while law-abiding citizens are left to endure this chaos. Premier Minns and Ms Car must act decisively. The laws must be urgently changed to protect police officers so they can perform their duties without the looming threat of losing their job or facing legal action. We cannot allow our communities to become no-go zones where the rule of law is suspended for fear of political fallout. This is a matter of safety, order, and justice. Enough is enough.

Caring for the community i Dedicated lawn graves, monumental graves, and natural burial. i Onsite crematorium offering the latest technology with peaceful cremation gardens. i Monthly and special event masses for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and All Souls Day. i Compassionate Grief Care support and workshops.

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

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JEFF PEGG, JORDAN SPRINGS

Editor a Liberal stooge?

Once again, Troy Dodds delivers another puff piece for the LNP, pretending it’s deep analysis (Editor’s Desk, Weekender May 8). Yes, the Liberals just suffered a historic defeat — but somehow Troy still finds time to lecture voters instead of the party that handed preferences to One Nation, had no policy vision, and thought fearmongering about The Voice would carry them to victory. And the kicker? “If you think any government determines the success of your life, go look in the mirror.” Really, Troy? Tell that to people crushed by wage suppression, housing unaffordability, and privatised services. Government policy does shape people’s lives – pretending otherwise is peak privilege. But hey, carry on blaming Labor for not spending enough in Lindsay while your party lights itself on fire nationally.

LEE KAY, VIA FACEBOOK

Governments do influence lives

Your comment “If you think any government, no matter what party forms it, determines the success of your life then you need to go have a look in the mirror” ignores education policy. Thanks to the LNP, there are now kids graduating university with a HECS debt higher than their starting salary.

Free TAFE courses under Labor, and the 20 per cent reduction in HECS debts has an enormous impact on people’s success in life. It also has an enormous impact on the cost of living if high education costs don’t have to be passed on to consumers by every plumber, sparky, groomer, accountant etc who has an enormous debt over their head.

KATE ZARB, VIA FACEBOOK

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space.

For more information, see our public notices section.

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

19

LOCAL NEWS

Car club delivers donation to hospital ahead of annual event NATHAN TAYLOR

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head of their upcoming Muscle Car Show next Sunday at Penrith Paceway, the HSV Owners Club NSW are giving back to the local community courtesy of a sizeable donation to Nepean Hospital’s Children’s Ward.

On Tuesday morning, members of the car club drove their pride and joys to the hospital, to hand deliver a cheque to the tune of $1000.

According to Kerry Tosswill, Nepean Hospital’s Divisional Manager Women & Children’s Health, the funds will go towards making kids’ stays that little bit brighter.

“A donation like this one has a huge impact because obviously the health dollar is very tight at the moment and people across the world are doing it tough with their finances, so to get donations it means we can buy that little bit extra,” she told the Weekender.

“Having a child in hospital is not a pleasant experience for anyone, particularly the children

The HSV Owners Club NSW has donated $1000 to the Nepean Hospital Children’s Ward. Photo: Melinda Jane.

themselves as it’s quite scary, so a donation like this can help get toys and equipment to make their stays easier or shorter.”

The highly sought after cars, displayed earlier this week at the hospital grounds, had many visitors and staff turning their heads – some even stopped to take photos.

Tosswill said receiving donations from organisations, like the HSV Owners Club NSW, can make all the difference.

“Having the cars here today creates buzz and excitement, and just having local organisations support the community is really nice as well,” she said.

The HSV Owners Club NSW is a not-for-profit organisation for motoring enthusiasts who have purchased Holden HDT and HSV models.

These vehicles are amongst the world’s fastest sedans, offering optimum performance, handling

SCHOOL CANTEEN TENDER James Erskine Public School

Mayor’s News The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen for the school year commencing on 14 July 2025 for a term of 3 years with an option to renew for 2 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 482.

Connecting our community to nature, loved ones

General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to: Mrs Mandy Anderson Business Manager 02 9834 3009

Penrith City Council is passionate about conservation and preserving the natural environment that makes our Local Government Area special – and we love achieving this together with our residents.

In a heartfelt display of community and connection, almost 500 people celebrated Mother’s Day at Council’s 18th Trees for Mum event. This emotional event sees community members plant shrubs and small trees with, or in honour of, their mums, grandmothers, aunts and mother figures. There were 479 trees planted at Caddens Road Park in Claremont Meadows over the weekend.

Participants get hands on experience as they learn about bushland native to the endangered Cumberland Plain woodland, while making new memories. They get to choose from a selection of plant types that thrive in our local area.

Something we are especially proud of is that these plants are propagated at Council’s own nursery, which has been operating in Penrith for more than 40 years. This is one of the many ways our organisation

E: jameserski-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au Tenders must be sent electronically and noted in the subject line “Commercial in Confidence – School Canteen Tender” and sent to: Ms Rose Kingi Principal E: jameserski-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

20

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

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Tenders close at 3:00pm on 30 May 2025 A tender visit and briefing session is planned to be held on 21 May 2025 at 9:00am.

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

and comfort at half the cost of their European equivalents whilst maintaining their identity as Australian cars built for Australian conditions.

It’s for this reason these vehicles remain so popular and worth a pretty penny if they ever go on the market.

Next Sunday, May 25 from 9am to 3.30pm, locals will have the chance to see these rare cars in the flesh when they pull up at the Penrith Paceway car park.

It will be the second straight year the free Muscle Car Show will be held at the venue following on from its successful turnout in 2024.

“Club Paceway share our members’ love for these high-performance vehicles and provide a great fit for our Muscle Car Show,” HSV Owners Club NSW President, Joe Garzaniti said.

“This year we will have over 70 very impressive and original and modified cars on display. These cars are their owner’s pride and joy, and the condition and show presentation of these vehicles is second to none.”

Garzaniti, a 29-year member of the club, said his fellow members love interacting with the community and other car enthusiasts, who share their passion for these high-performance vehicles.

“We would love the general public to come along and enjoy a great day out for the entire family, with raffles, prizes, food, beverages and much more on offer,” he said.

For more information on the club and next weekend’s show at Penrith Paceway, visit www.hsvclubnsw. com.

strives to be innovative – and speaks to our efforts towards being self-sufficient and sustainable.

Council and our community members love reading the handwritten notes left on each of the plants, which are surrounded by a biodegradable guard to protect them.

The shrubs and trees grow to offer natural shade for current and future generations; they create groundcover and increased canopy cover – a positive exercise that answers the greater need for heat mitigation in Penrith, as outlined in Council’s Cooling the City Strategy and Green Grid Strategy.

Every year, we are pleased to welcome new faces as well as visitors from other Local Government Areas who appreciate the opportunity to connect with nature and their loved ones in a meaningful way.

Thank you to everyone who took part over the weekend. To find out more about Council’s conservation work and learn how you can get involved, visit penrith. city/bushland.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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

LOCAL NEWS

Stepping up again

Cake stall helps raise vital funds

Popular community fundraiser returns this Saturday

T

his Saturday, May 17 sees the eagerly awaited return of WestCare’s community Walk and Appeal, ‘Steps of Hope’.

After a short break this will be the 12th holding of the annual event and this year every dollar raised will directly support two of the local charity’s most vital activities: mental health and school welfare support.

“We think Steps Of Hope is a ‘win-win’ for the community, providing an accessible opportunity for people of all ages to participate in a meaningful fundraiser that supports activities with genuine outcomes, literally saving people’s lives and strengthening families in Penrith,” said WestCare Director, Andrew Paech.

The Walk component involves walking the ‘Bridge to Bridge’ circuit of the Nepean River Walk, with registration capped at $35 for adults and $20 for children aged five to 15 years that generously includes a free T-shirt, sausage sizzle and bottled water.

And with financial donations to the appeal being tax-deduct-

The VIEW Club’s Cake Stall.

Steps of Hope returns this weekend.

ible, the Steps of Hope appeal is a great way for people to directly inject their support for the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk, Penrith Women’s Walk and Talk and school breakfast and family welfare support.

Participants can start and finish the walk any time between the hours of 7.30am and 12.30pm on Saturday from the basecamp along the path near the mulberry trees just off the Jamison Road bend at Tench Reserve.

To register for this weekend’s event, donate or find out more about the Steps of Hope walk and appeal, visit www.StepsOfHope. org.au or contact the WestCare team at admin@westcare.org. au.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club would like to thank the wonderful people of the Penrith and Nepean area for supporting their Cake Stall on Saturday, May 10.

The stall was hosted at Bunnings North Penrith.

The funds raised will contribute to the education of disadvantaged Australian students.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club sponsors five students through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life Program.

“The generosity of our community makes it easier for us to do what we do,” the club said.

VIEW is a national women’s organisation with over 13000 members in close to 280 communities, exclusively supporting children’s education charity The Smith Family.

For more information, visit www.view.org.au or email nepeanview@gmail.com.

LAUNCH EVENT 81–83 Batt Street, Penrith Tuesday 20 May 2025 10:30am–11:30am Akura, in partnership with PRD Commercial, is proud to unveil a brand-new opportunity in Western Sydney’s industrial landscape — premium warehouse units ranging from 187m² to 490m².

These units are ideal for businesses looking to expand, relocate, or invest in one of Sydney’s fastest-growing corridors. With just 8 units remaining, this is your chance to secure a high-quality space built for growth and longevity.

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• Free coffee and refreshments from Brisket Boys • Guest speakers • Inspect Penrith’s latest industrial development

For enquiries, contact Robert Tappouras on 0436 430 344

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

21

LOCAL NEWS

Reserve to officially carry tribute to local dubbed “Mrs St Marys” EMILY CHATE

I

t’s been known as Dorothy Radford Reserve by locals for decades, but now Penrith City Council will formally adopt the name, after first deciding to do so 35 years ago.

In 1990, Council resolved to unofficially name the reserve after Radford, also known as “Mrs St Marys”, though at the time and since no official application to name the reserve was made to the Geographical Names Board (GNB).

Council recently voted submit an application to the GNB of NSW to make official the name of the Dorothy Radford Reserve in St Clair.

“Council is currently upgrading the play space in Dorothy Radford Reserve and as part of this renewal, is planning to install a new sign denoting the name of the reserve,” a Council report said.

Radford resided in St Marys for more than six decades and passed away in 2014 at the age of 79, after she had spent most of her life helping the community through various initiatives.

The reserve will officially be named Dorothy Radford reserve. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“As a founding member of the St Marys Development Committee, Dorothy made a lasting difference to her community. Such was her involvement she was affectionately

known as Mrs St Marys,” the Council report said.

“The Development Committee not only instigated and coordinated the Spring Festival for 38 years, but it

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also ran the St Marys Fun Run and the Bands in the Park program.

“Dorothy was named the first Spring Festival Citizen in 2001 for her contribution to the community.

Radford was also president of the RSL Women’s Auxiliary and founded the St Marys Meals on Wheels Service.

She volunteered at the St Marys Senior Citizens Club for more than 30 years and was involved with the Girl Guides movement for nearly 40 years.

She was the first person in the area awarded the Olive Baden Power Award for her devoted services to the girl guide movement.

Other local organisations which benefited from Radford’s community spirit included Barnardo’s Australia, St Vincent de Paul Society and The Salvation Army.

“In 2003 these efforts were recognised when Dorothy was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to the community of Penrith, particularly through veteran, youth and aged care groups,” the Council report said.

“Although Dorothy passed away in 2014, an application was not made to the GNB in the following years to officially name the reserve.”

An application will now be prepared by Council and submitted to the GNB for review.

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

Δ New Indian eatery: A new Indian restaurant is headed to Erskine Park. Tikka & Tonic will open at the Erskine Park Shopping Centre at 180 Swallow Drive.

Δ New ales: If you’re looking for a new drink to enjoy with mates this chilly season, we’ve got a couple of options. Casella Family Brands is pushing POETS Lager (pictured), an all-Australian brew crafted in the heart of New South Wales, embodying the country with a playful twist. This crisp lager is ideal for savouring time with family and friends.

It’s available in a 30-pack slab for $58. Also on the list is Yenda Pale Ale, a medium-bodied, balanced beer with a touch of malt sweetness and a crisp finish. Its slight resinous aroma and flavour make it a great choice for raising a toast with friends and warming the heart this winter. Available in a six-pack for $17. Δ Pizza winner: Franky’s Kebabs & Burgers has opened at 372 High Street in Penrith.

They’re serving delicious kebabs and pizzas.

Locals would know Franky’s from their St Marys location in Christie Street.

Δ Faves return: Some lovable chocolate treats from the past are back in supermarkets.

Aero Strawberry Block and Sharebar, Milkybar Chokito, Milkybar Crunch Block, and the return of favourites Aero Milk Bar and Golden Rough Block have been announced. Whether you’re sharing or unwinding, these treats are sure to excite your taste buds! Δ Chicken’s back on the menu: Sydney’s Charcoal Chicken is back open in St Marys after a fire devastated the business earlier this year. It opened at 93 Queen Street, St Marys earlier this week – satisfying the cravings of locals who have been at a loss since its closure. Δ Tasty combination: Rainbird and H2coco have joined forces to create the ultimate alcoholic sparkling coconut water and vodka. This new Rainbird x H2coco alcoholic premix (pictured) blends premium vodka, the signature freshness of real H2coco young green coconut water with a sparkling twist, and fruit juice to create an RTD experience unlike any other. The newest Rainbird x H2coco collaboration has landed in a beverage made with natural ingredients, in two bold flavours of Pineapple and Passionfruit. It has a smooth premium vodka finish, blended with H2coco’s signature coconut water with a sparkling twist, making it the perfect addition to any drinking occasion. Available at BWS and Dan Murphy’s now. Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about new menu items, store openings and more!

Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

THE new home for job listingS in penrith www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

23

TURNING BACK TIME This photograph shows employees lining up to get money from a ‘pay car’ at Wallacia in 1961.

Pay cars were used to disburse cash and wages in rural and regional areas.

They were common throughout Australia and also used in North Amerca, particularly for railway employees.

A pay car was usually a converted passenger car, specially fitted to allow the formation of a queue and for various checks and balances to take place.

Pay cars were discontinued in the early 1960s, so this photograph would have been taken towards the end of their run.

(Photo thanks to Records NSW)

SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS FROM PENRITH’S PAST – INFO@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

Presented by Blue Mountains City Council at Blue Mountains Cultural Centre 22 April – 15 June 2025

24

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

Wynne Prize 2024 finalist, Zaachariaha Fielding Parulpi (detail) © the artist

WW55983

2024

WYNNE PRIZE

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

ENDEAVOUR FOUNDATION • WWW.ENDEAVOUR.COM.AU

Endeavour delivers for schools T

hree schools in Sydney’s north-west have received new virtual reality devices and software worth $25,000, donated by Australian leading disability service provider, Endeavour Foundation.

Students with disability at The Ponds School, Crestwood State High School and Kellyville State High School will benefit from the generous tech grant gifted to Endeavour Foundation, from insurance experts, Ansvar.

Endeavour Foundation are unmatched in the inclusive VR tech space, with over 20 learning simulations aimed at providing a safe, virtual way for users to develop work-related skillsets and life-skills, before trying the activity in the real world.

“These students now have access to a variety of simulations, including road safety programs, warehouse safety including awareness around forklifts, as well as learning to drive,” said Endeavour Foundation’s Service Design Manager, Chris Beaumont.

“Our organisation was established nearly 75 years ago to advocate for the rights of people with disability.

Whether the support is at home to

aid everyday life, at work or in the community, we’re passionate about helping to create possibilities by offering opportunities – and our VR suite is just one way.”

The new VR simulations will not only help students learn new skills while at school, but enables a smoother transition into life after school – whether that’s in the community on their own, or as they start work.

Head of Technology at The Ponds School, Alex Nesbitt, confirms, “Virtual Reality, offers a noticeable increase in student engagement, which is the ideal means to foster positive learning environments and encourage measurable growth for our diverse learners.”

Year 12 student, Toni, from The Ponds School, adds, “Virtual Reality takes me far away from the classroom, to explore so many different

places and experiences. It makes me feel joyful, engaged and free.”

Ansvar Insurance CEO, Warren Hutchenson confirms, “Ansvar is extremely proud to have supported Endeavour Foundation with a $25,000 grant.

“For over 30 years, Ansvar’s Community Education Program has provided a range of grants to help fund over 300 charities to help support young Australians and

their progressive pathways.”

Endeavour Foundation says, the relationship they hold with each school, is unique. Students already visit nearby Castle Hill Learning and Lifestyle Hub and the Business Solutions work site, as well as the Penrith Learning and Lifestyle centre, when considering opportunities after finishing school.

Visit www.endeavour.com.au for more information.

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endeavour.com.au Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

25

BUSINESS

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PEOPLE

W

VOICEOVERS ON HOLD MESSAGES RADIO COMMERCIALS & ALL OTHER AUDIO

1. Referrals and reviews matter Start with recommendations from people you trust.

Ask fellow business owners who they’ve worked with and whether they’d use them again. Check online reviews or testimonials – look for consistent praise around communication, reliability, and results.

2. Check their work Ask for portfolios or case studies. Their work should not only look good but reflect an understanding of your industry and goals.

A great provider can show how they’ve helped similar businesses grow.

A Red Flag: Generic or

outdated work that doesn’t align with your vision.

3. Pay attention to communication First impressions matter.

Are they easy to talk to? Do they listen? Are they prompt in replying? Delays or vague responses early on usually get worse later.

A Red Flag: If you’re chasing them before signing a contract, it won’t improve after.

4. Clarify timelines and expectations Talk openly about budgets, timeframes, and deliverables. A professional will set clear expectations, outline their process, and be honest about any potential delays.

5. Ask about relevant experience They don’t need to specialise in your niche, but understanding your type of business helps. Ask if they’ve worked with businesses like yours and what the outcomes were.

ALEX HAWKINS Western Sydney Business Centre 4721 5011 6. Professionalism counts Good vibes are great – but look for systems too. Contracts, invoices, onboarding – these show they take their business (and yours) seriously.

7. Trust your gut If something feels off – whether it’s unclear pricing, dodged questions, or a pushy vibe – don’t ignore it.

You need to feel confident and comfortable in any working relationship for it to be successful.

Building your business is a big deal. Choose people who bring skill, clarity, and trust to the table – and don’t be afraid to walk away if they don’t.

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

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r

de Weeken Western

Mitch Kenny.

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The famous electronic Panther scoreboard became part of Penrith Stadium in 1978, and the previous manual scoreboard was banished to history.

“Electronic boards were in their infancy but I had seen a few scoreboards in the U.S. that were quite spectacular,” former Club Secretary and promotions boss Ian Maurice (pictured) told the Weekender.

“I made some inquiries about the possibility of getting one but they were completely out of our budget. I worked with the late Roger Cowan about just what we could afford and I thought we could utilise what was then a new Penrith logo. i.e. the leaping Panther.”

The scoreboard, with lights and even sound, was removed several years before the closure of Penrith Stadium, with former General Manager Phil Gould claiming it had been put in storage. But there is no evidence to suggest any part of the old scoreboard was salvaged.

32

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, May 15, 2025

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

YEO SET TO SKIPPER BLUES ! New role for Isaah: Isaah Yeo is set to

Isaah Yeo.

add to his stellar list of achievements by taking on the New South Wales captaincy when the Blues side is named for Origin I in the coming days. Even if Jake Trbojevic retains his spot in the squad, I’m told he won’t be captain and Yeo will be handed the role. Given he co-captains the Panthers and is the current Kangaroos captain, it makes sense for Yeo to be handed the role for New South Wales.

! Penrith’s NRLW push: The NRL doesn’t

want to expand the premier women’s competition until 2028 but I’m told the Panthers are pushing strongly for entry into the NRLW a year earlier, in 2027. The competition expands to 12 teams this year with the readmission of the Warriors and the arrival of the Bulldogs.

The NRL has taken a slow and steady approach to NRLW expansion, but the Panthers will put forward a strong case for admission a little earlier than expected. A 2027 debut would also give the new Penrith Stadium additional content, which Venues NSW is desperate to achieve from early in the piece.

! Origin players won’t be back up: Penrith

coach Ivan Cleary (pictured) has decided not to force his State of Origin representatives to back up from Origin II in Perth for the following weekend’s game against the Warriors. It would have been a huge ask for the likes of Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo to play in Perth on Wednesday night and then get to Auckland for the clash with the Warriors on the Saturday afternoon. The coach has opted to roll the dice and won’t get his players to back up. Penrith play the Eels after the other two Origin clashes, with both games in Sydney. Players would be more likely to back up after these clashes.

! Dour reaction to draw: How do you

long ago we were constantly washing balls in soapy water during the COVID crisis!

celebrate a draw? The answer is you don’t.

The Penrith dressing room resembled that of a loss after the 30-all tie to the Cowboys in Townsville on Saturday. There were very few smiles as the reality of letting a 12-point lead slip twice set in.

! Luke on the outer: I told you back in

! Spotted: Melbourne Storm 2024 premiers hats on sale at a TK MAXX store in Queensland last week. Only problem is, of course, that the Storm didn’t get the chocolates in the Grand Final. Whoops.

March that Soni Luke would not be re-signed

by Penrith beyond this season. That has apparently been locked in over the past few weeks, with Luke’s management desperately trying to find him a new deal. England looms as a likely destination.

including plenty with a Penrith link. Panthers recruitment manager Jim Jones was there, as was one-time power broker Lou Zivanovic and former Panthers forward Darryl Brohman.

! May on the lookout: Taylan May, who

left Penrith in controversial circumstances last year, is looking to resume his NRL career. He’s now doing the media rounds claiming to be reformed, especially after checking himself in to a private mental health facility recently. I guess time will tell. A club will pick him up either for the back end of this year, or for 2025.

! Ball-gate overblown: So is Penrith trainer Shane Elford wetting the ball prior to the Golden Point kick-off against the Cowboys last Saturday night really a big deal? Some in the media and in the Twitterverse seem to think so, but the reality is things like this happen all the time. As we’ve seen since the story first emerged, even the Cowboys themselves were doing it in the same game. Grumpy journos calling for lengthy bans for Elford are losing credibility by the minute with such immature suggestions. It wasn’t that

footy club

! Powerful gathering: Some of the biggest names in rugby league gathered last week to surprise former Panthers player, coach and administrator Phil Gould. The celebration of his 50th year in rugby league attracted a host of rugby league’s most influential figures,

footy club

Have you noticed the ‘FOOTY CLUB’ banners on some ads in Extra Time?

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender • extra time

33

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34

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

analysis

BOLTS FROM THE BLUE W

lang on

league with Peter Lang

ith State of Origin just around the corner the Panthers face the prospect of having at least five players represent the NSW Blues in the upcoming series.

This despite sitting in 16th place on the NRL ladder after 10 rounds of the competition. This indifferent start to the season means there’s no guarantee those five players will even be selected for the side.

So, I’d like to break down the Panthers’ possible Origin representatives into three categories.

The definite, the probable and the bolter.

The three definite speak for themselves in Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and Liam Martin.

If fit, Cleary will be the first Blue picked and with solid form behind him, he will never have a better chance to tick the final box in his already glowing resume by leading NSW to victory and dominating the series at halfback.

It’s almost astonishing to think that the current Australian captain Isaah Yeo started from the interchange bench for the Blues last year. Safe to say the inspirational lock will start each game for NSW coach Laurie Daley and may even be selected as skipper.

While I personally think Liam Martin’s form has been well down for Penrith in 2025, I have no doubt

Daley will select him in the second row. Martin brings an aggressive style of play which makes him the perfect fit for Origin.

He niggles the Queenslanders and his best form of defence is attack. Martin’s had an ongoing feud with Maroons five-eighth Cameron Munster and the two clearly don’t like each other.

It makes for wonderful rugby league theatre.

The ‘probable players’ are Dylan Edwards and Brian To’o. Both will probably be selected. Yes, I know it’s insane to even suggest either player may miss out considering they’re the incumbents but hear me out on this one.

There has been a push from sections of the media for Blues coach Laurie Daley to look at the form of both James Tedesco and Ryan Papenhuyzen as potential starting fullbacks.

While Edwards is the favourite to get the nod, a strong game from Tedesco this weekend could see him punted for the former Blues captain.

Meanwhile, when fully fit, To’o is the first winger chosen for NSW, however missing six weeks of football and having a bye leading into Origin selection, is far from the perfect preparation.

If To’o gets selected it will be because he is the incumbent, and

footy club

selectors know he will do the job for them, long injury layoff or not.

The bolter from the blue would be Lindsay Smith who, at the end of last year, made his debut for Australia and in February attended a pre-season Blues Origin camp.

His form for Penrith has been up-and-down in 2025 and that’s reflected in his selection in the starting side because for the majority of the year he’s come off the interchange bench.

However, his performances of late have been strong and he looks like he’s almost back to the type of form which saw him selected in the green and gold last year.

Daley is believed to be a fan of Smith and he could still grab a last-minute bench spot for the Blues.

The Panthers enjoy a wellearned break this weekend and I’m sure those selected on Sunday will be feeling anything but blue when Nathan Cleary will be picked. their name is read out.

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Function enquiries - galleryfunctions@penrith.city Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender • extra time

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BYE: PANTHERS

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To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

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

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18

2nd Nathan Cleary

35

Lindsay Smith

14

3rd

Dylan Edwards

22 8th

Brian To'o

12

4th

Liam Martin

19

Isaiah Papali'i

10

5th

Paul Alamoti

18 10th Thomas Jenkins

7th

9th

9

detail, the team at L J Hooker works tirelessly to make your real estate dreams come true.

Contact the team today at 4732 2322 or penrith@ljhooker.com.au

penrith.ljhooker.com.au

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Take the risk and worry out of your real estate experience with L J Hooker Penrith!

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Future Financial Services ‘Plan & Prosper’ Our knowledge and experience in rela on to legisla on and strategies surrounding superannua on, insurance, investments, taxa on and Centrelink will enable us to provide you with quality advice to assist you achieve your financial goals.

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender • extra time

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17

ROUND 11

39

celebrity tipsters douglas ely

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

097

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

095

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

093

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

091

EELS ROOSTERS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM DRAGONS

TITANS RABBITOHS

089

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

089

derry o’donovan

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

089

charbel geagea

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

089

EELS BULLDOGS

DOLPHINS SEA EAGLES

SHARKS BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

089

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

SHARKS BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

089

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

087

EELS ROOSTERS

DOLPHINS SEA EAGLES

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

087

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

087

EELS ROOSTERS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM DRAGONS

TITANS RABBITOHS

087

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

087

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

087

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

TITANS TIGERS

087

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

085

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

085

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

085

YORK JEWELLERS | 4721 0780

alex mckenzie FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES | 4727 6588

bill mcdeed GOURMET MEAT CO | 4735 1400

liz prasad RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL | 4722 8500

juliet desilva SYNERGY ACCOUNTING | 4732 6555

chris rudduck ALPHA BUILD | 1300 255 144

O’DONOVANS | 0414 254 074

KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666

donna hildon SUPREMACY FUNERALS | 4721 2020

sheri humphrey HERTZ | 4731 6344

nathan taylor THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998

erin vicary DEFUSE PILATES & YOGA STUDIO | 4732 5226

ian garton MCDONALD’S GARTON GROUP | 4721 2992

jai carmody CARMODY ACCOUNTING | 4711 3386

lee banister TRESAMI MANAGED IT SERVICES | 1300 318 444

cameron faico FAICO & CO REAL ESTATE | 0434 400 225

corey phillips LEISURE POOLS | 0415 699 086

daniel mckinnon COMPLETE LEGAL | 1300 COMLAW

gina field NEPEAN REGIONAL SECURITY | 4732 5369

chris ayling ARUM ADVISORY | 8302 3677

40

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

ross fowler

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

085

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

085

EELS BULLDOGS

DOLPHINS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

085

EELS ROOSTERS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM DRAGONS

TITANS RABBITOHS

083

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

083

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

DOLPHINS COWBOYS

SHARKS BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

083

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

083

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

083

troy kennedy

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS TIGERS

083

adam toby

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

DOLPHINS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

081

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

081

EELS ROOSTERS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

079

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

079

EELS BULLDOGS

DOLPHINS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

077

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

077

EELS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

075

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

075

EELS ROOSTERS

WARRIORS SEA EAGLES

STORM DRAGONS

TITANS RABBITOHS

075

KNIGHTS ROOSTERS

DOLPHINS SEA EAGLES

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

073

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

WARRIORS COWBOYS

STORM BRONCOS

RAIDERS RABBITOHS

071

ROSS FOWLER & CO | 0419 738 484

daniel galea INFINITE HOMES | 4703 4040

darren latty PRD REAL ESTATE | 0414 620 532

vince capolupo LAKESIDE RESTAURANT | 0419 491 125

mark elphick MARKWATER PLUMBING | 0424 775 509

john veitch PARRAMATTA MOTOR GROUP | 0447 517 711

matthew sandstrom ALPHA BUILD | 1300 255 144

andrew berger KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666

EARTHWORKS TRAINING | 0415 214 348

dee barlow COUNTRY BREWER | 4731 5444

troy dodds THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998

kane towns TOWNS CRANES | 0487 272 819

leigh hartog JK WILLIAMS | 4725 3400

natalie xuereb VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT | 4732 2195

shanaka de silva SYNERGY ACCOUNTING | 4732 6555

garth butler PENRITH TOYOTA | 8805 9500

ken hale KEN HALE PLUMBING | 4773 9275

jeff lemon KHP CIVIL | 4773 9275

jim hill NEPEAN SOLAR SOLUTIONS | 4760 0809

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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Please help keep our Penrith homeless & underprivileged community warm this winter!

HOW YOU CAN HELP 1

Please help keep our Penrith homeless & Purchase any new item forwarm comfort packs underprivileged community this winter!

Beanies, scarfs, gloves, instant heat packs (not electrical), socks and jackets and drop off at the following locations: • Penrith City Council - 601 High St, Penrith • Office Karen McKeown OAM, Member for Penrith - 510 High St Penrith • Penrith RSL - 8 Tindale St Penrith

2

3 Contribute to The Creative Fringe’s “TOTS Blanket Challenge” More details at www.thecreativefringe.com.au

Help the Penrith Community Kitchen provide a warm meal this Winter Make a donation directly to the Kitchen www.penrithcommunitykitchen.com.au

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY: Donate items for comfort packs For any further details please contact Penrith CBD Corp for more details: beanies, scarfs, gloves, instant heat packs (not electrical), socks and 4722 5556 | gai@penrithcbdcorp.com.au jackets - drop off points Penrith CBD Corp 488 High St, Stuart Ayres 510 High St, ANZ 504 High St & Westfield Penrith, or The Creative Fringe 6/51 York Rd Jamisontown

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

Contribute to The Creative Fringe’s “Think outside the square challenge”

Karen McKeown OAM Member for Penrith

more details at www.thecreativefringe.com.au/events-andworkshops/think-outside-the-square-knitting-challenge/

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

Help the kitchen stock their food pantry by making a donation. Phone: 47 225556 for details

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

JACKSON HOLDS ALL THE ACES ALLY HALL

J

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ackson Aces was a kid from the Sutherland Shire who loved puzzles. Now he’s a master in the art of illusion, magic, and blowing the minds of millions.

His interest in the mystic arts was sparked when a classmate in geography class performed a magic trick.

“I wanted to show him up and out-do him because I was so competitive,” Aces reminisced.

“I went online that night – and this was in 2005 when there was no YouTube and there was dial-up Internet – and I was trying to find magic trick explanations, but there was nothing.

“After spending hours doing that, a magic show happened to come on the TV and I gave it a watch, and I was jaw-on-the-floor the whole time.”

The person on the TV that night was superstar magician and mentalist David Blaine, who went on to become a role model for Aces.

“It seemed so amazing to me that there was this whole world of magic that was actually cool – it wasn’t just waving around a piece of silk and it changes from red to blue,” Aces explained.

“When it came to levitating and appearing like you’re a messiah with otherworldly abilities, it was really intriguing to me.”

Another role model for Aces was De’vo, a renowned card manipulator and Cardistry (Card Artistry) expert.

“He never showed his face, so there was a real mystique about this guy, and he had cool techno music that would play in his videos and cool special effects,” Aces remembered.

“He would do all these incredible, difficult displays of skill with a deck of cards, and I was so captivated by that, my mum bought me my first premium decks of cards for my 13th birthday and a few magic DVDs.” These inspirations formed the magician we see today.

“I got to meet David Blaine two months ago in Vegas when I went over for the NRL. He gave me a really nice shoutout on ‘The Today Show’ when he was interviewed by Richard Wilkins the next week,” Aces exclaimed.

“I was on cloud nine for the whole week after that because I was just a kid from the Shire

with a deck of cards who was fascinated with this guy, and almost 20 years later, for him to give me a big wrap, it was so incredible.”

The praise was well-deserved, and Penrith is lucky enough to host Aces very soon.

“While I am known for my card tricks, my show is the best of the best of all the magic that I’ve learnt in the last 20 years,” Aces explained.

“I have a female assistant who gets cut into five pieces, she disappears and reappears in the audience, we appear out of nowhere. It’s a really dynamic show and there’s a lot of interactive magic where everybody can get involved from their seats.”

See Jackson Aces in ‘Beyond Possible’ at Penrith Panthers on Friday, May 23. Tickets are $59. To purchase tickets, visit penrith. panthers.com.au.

Monday – Wednesday T&C’s Apply

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

THINGS TO DO Get your boots on and head to St Marys!

Track Day at Luddenham Raceway this Sunday

Intro to Jewellery-making

St Marys – it’s time for a country music takeover! The Coachman’s Park Stage will come alive as Ingrid Mae and her band roll into town like a freight train, delivering an unforgettable performance at ‘Nothin’ but Country’. From 11am on May 17, audiences can soak up the sounds of great country classics in an atmosphere made for boot-stompin’ fun.

Find out what your car is made of at Luddenham Raceway’s Track Day! The Motorsport Park features a thrilling and technical track with challenging elevation changes and plenty of technical corners to push you and your vehicle to the limits.

Street and track cars are both welcome and helmets are mandatory. Bookings are essential and can be made online.

Join Tracy Kelly on May 18 for a fun and inspiring introduction to earring making at home! This hands-on workshop will teach you fundamental jewellery-making techniques, using a mix of new, upcycled and ‘found materials’ alongside precious or semi-precious metals to create stunning, wearable designs.

Visit https://www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au.

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.

from 10am. New members are always welcome.

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

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

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

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 for more information.

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

South Creek Probus Club Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

COMMUNITY SERVICES

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 Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway.

0415 625 573 for more information.

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.

Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700 for more details.

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

MUSEUMS

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BARGAIN BUYS

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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WAYNE’S W RLD

COUNTRY CORNER Wilson beating out not only Ballerini but also the likes of Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton and Luke Combs – who also had huge years.

Ironically Ballerini produced probably the best live performance at the ACMs, a stunning rendition of her hit single ‘Baggage’.

with Wayne Tunks

WAYNE TUNKS CAN BE HEARD WEEKDAYS, 7AM-10AM ON MY88 – AN IHEART STATION Being a support act can be a tough gig, especially in the ‘80s. There are many stories of impatient and drunk crowds booing and throwing projectiles to unsuspecting support acts, just trying to do their job.

When I chatted to Grace Knight of the Eurogliders on my show a few years back, she recalled a story about being a support act at a big US show, where they put wire across the stage to make sure the support acts weren’t hurt, and by the end of their set there were empty beer cans lodged in the metal.

It seems like things have calmed down considerably since then and while support acts often play to half empty venues, and with people talking during their set, they pick up new fans by playing first. Just this year I have seen some great support acts at shows.

Kylie Minogue had Mallrat, a Queensland singer and rapper. Kasey Chambers is touring with Kiwi country singer, Jenny Mitchell, and Cyndi Lauper toured with Aussie legends, The

Veronicas. Mallrat was OK for me; Jenny is a wonderful singer and songwriter; and I’ve always wanted to see The Veronicas, and they did not disappoint. I imagine all three artists have seen

an increase in streams after touring with successful artists.

The NSW State Government is now offering up to $20,000 in incentives for international artists to book a local support act. With the festival scene struggling in Australia, this is the perfect opportunity for artists to perform in front of big audiences, and possibly introduce themselves to new listeners. It would be lovely to see the other states follow through and really give international acts a reason to book Aussies instead of bringing a support act with them.

And let’s finish with some concert advice, and etiquette. Get there early and watch the support act, cheer for them and don’t spend your time talking loudly – others around you do want to listen and support the opening act.

Ella’s big night

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

Ella Langley certainly had a successful night at the ACMs. The rising star (pictured below) won New Female Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Music Event of the Year and Visual Media of the Year.

Not bad for a 26-year-old still in the early stages of the breakthrough period of her career.

Was Kelsea Ballerini snubbed?

The big talk out of the ACM Awards in Texas last week was Lainey Wilson taking out Entertainer of the Year.

Wilson certainly has a big fan base but the huge number of awards she’s winning has raised a few eyebrows on the country landscape.

Kelsea Ballerini (pictured) had a stunning last 12 months topped by a critically acclaimed album release and a stadium tour, and plenty had suggested this was her best chance to nab the coveted award.

But it wasn’t to be, with

Keep local news thriving.

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Year, while Lainey Wilson won Album of the Year with ‘Whirlwind’. We’re not here to bag Wilson, but in Country Corner’s opinion, Zach Top and Post Malone can both feel pretty disappointed at not taking home the trophy – both albums were absolute belters.

Nothing cheap about him No surprises in the Song of the Year category with Cody Johnson (pictured) getting the win with ‘Dirt Cheap’, a top country track that both purists and non-country fans loved over the last 12 months.

‘You Look Like You Love Me’ from Riley Green and Ella Langley took out Single of the

Ê Channel 10 has announced the team captains for the all-new ‘Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation’, hosted by Anne Edmonds. Gen X will be led by Dave Hughes. Gen Y will be represented by Tommy Little. And, Gen Z will be captained by Anisa Nandaula. Expect nostalgic throwbacks, modern mayhem and challenges that’ll have the whole family shouting answers at the screen. ‘Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation’ will premiere soon on 10.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Significant news for Stan, with the streamer nabbing the Australian rights to Irish comedy drama series ‘The Walsh Sisters’. Set in their Dublin hometown, ‘The Walsh Sisters’ follows the lives of Anna, Rachel, Maggie, Claire and Helen as they navigate the peaks and troughs of their late 20s and 30s. This is a sisterhood full of in-jokes, hand-me-down resentments and more than a few old wounds. But their DNA, history and shared love of power ballads keep the Walsh sisters together in the face of heartbreak, grief, addiction and parenthood. The series, which doesn’t have an airdate, is inspired by one of Marian Keyes’ best-selling novels.

JUNE 27 SQUID GAME, NETFLIX

COMING SOON

TALKIN’ ‘BOUT YOUR GENERATION, 10

Ê The third and final season of Netflix juggernaut ‘Squid Game’ will drop on Friday, June 27. Picking up from season two’s devastating cliffhanger, season three thrusts Gi-hun (Player 456) back into the brutal heart of the games, determined to dismantle them once and for all. Still haunted by the betrayal and loss of his closest ally, Jung-bae (Player 390), Gi-hun faces new perils – including the Front Man, who shockingly infiltrated their rebellion disguised as Player 001. Ê Reimagined television series ‘Walking With Dinosaurs’ will premiere on the ABC on Tuesday, June 3 at 8pm. Narrated by actor Bertie Carvel, the six-part BBC series will showcase the dramatic stories of six dinosaurs including the Spinosaurus – the largest carnivorous dinosaur to ever walk the earth – roaming the rivers of ancient Morocco; a Triceratops battling a ravenous T-Rex in North America; and a lonely giant Lusotitan risking it all for a love in Portugal. It’s been 25 years since the original series was released.

Ê Three big US dramas have been renewed for further seasons. ‘Chicago Fire’ will return for a 14th season, ‘Chicago PD’ is back for a 13th season, and ‘Chicago Med’ has been confirmed for an 11th season. Ê Medical melodrama ‘SkyMed’, which follows the triumphs and tribulations of young medics and pilots who fly air ambulances across the remote skies of Northern Canada, will return to Paramount+ on Friday, May 16.

The nine-episode third season will pick up in the aftermath of the dramatic season two finale, which saw the SkyMed team faced with a shocking medical emergency for one of its members. Ê Surprise Apple TV+ hit ‘The Studio’ has been renewed for a second season. The cast includes Seth Rogan and Catherine O’Hara, and also features a line-up of cameos from some of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, directors and producers throughout the season.

Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square.

With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.

www.pancakesontherocks.com.au 45024

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TV Guide: May 16 – 22

Sunday 18 May

Saturday 17 May

Friday 16 May

Your guide to the week’s television viewing 6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America 10:30 The Pacific 11:10 Bergerac (M l,v) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Bay Of Fires (M l,v) 2:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 3:00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 3:30 Grand Designs - The Streets (PG) 4:15 Long Lost Family - What Happened Next (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:30 Sherwood (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Better Homes And Gardens 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 7:30 AFL: Round 10: Sydney v Carlton *Live* 10:30 AFL: Post Game 11:15 GetOn Extra 11:45 House Of Wellness (PG) 12:45 The Black Donnellys (M d,s,v) 2:00 Home Shopping 4:00 Million Dollar Minute

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Kidnapped In Paradise” (PG) (’99) Stars: Joely Fisher 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: Bulldogs v Roosters *Live* 9:55 NRL: Golden Point 10:45 Into The Blue (M l,v) 12:50 Drive TV 1:20 Explore 1:30 Home Shopping

10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 MasterChef Australia (PG) 11:30 Judge Judy (PG) 12:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Judge Judy (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 House Hunters Australia: (PG) 8:30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M l,s)

10:00 Tough Trains (PG) 10:55 Lost World Of Joseph Banks (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Megastructures Of Genius (PG) (In English/ French) 3:00 NITV News Nula 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 4:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Eurovision Semi Final 1: Access All Areas (PG) 10:00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes (PG)

2:00 The Car Club (PG) 2:30 Sydney 2:30 Desert Collectors Weekender 3:00 (PG) 3:30 STIHL Animal SOS Australia (PG) 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 Timbersports (PG) 4:00 Aussie Lobster Men (PG) 5:00 Better Homes And Gardens American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Escape To The Country 6:00 Bargain Hunt 7:00 Better 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 Homes And Gardens 8:30 AFL: Friday Night Countdown House Of Wellness (PG)

3:55 The Mysterious 10:30 House Rules Cities Of Gold (PG) (PG) 12:00 Code Black 4:35 Waabiny Time (M) 3:00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: 4:00 Puppy School (PG) 4:30 Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV Frogger (PG) 5:30 The Amazing News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:30 Race (PG) 7:00 Movie: “The Movie: “The Goonies” (PG) Karate Kid” (PG) (’84) Stars: (’85) Stars: Sean Astin Elisabeth Shue

8:30 Tough Tested 9:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 In The Dark (M v) 2:30 Numb3rs (PG) 3:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 My Life Is Murder (M v)

2:00 Flipping 101 With 2:00 Becker (PG) 2:30 Tarek El Moussa 3:00 Frasier (PG) 3:30 Rules The Block (PG) 4:00 Of Engagement (PG) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 $50K Three Ways 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Lakefront Bargain Hunt 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) Restored 6:00 House Hunters 6:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Movie: International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Building “Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One” (PG) (’23) Alaska (PG)

12:00 ABC News At 4:00 Andy’s Safari Noon 1:00 ABC News Adventures 4:25 Builder Day 3:00 ABC News Brothers Dream Factory Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:10 PJ Masks Power Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Heroes 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Gardening Hour 7:00 ABC National News Australia Junior 7:35 TBA 8:00 7:30 ABC Evening News 8:00 Planet America Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! (PG)

2:25 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (PG) 2:50 Doctor Who (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Old House New Home (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI (PG)

5:30 Everyday Gourmet 6:00 Marcus Wareing’s Kitchen Garden Tales 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Jimmy Doherty’s New Zealand Escape 8:30 Kitchen Glow Up 9:00 Malaysia Gourmet With Justine Schofield

3:55 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:20 PBS News Hour 5:20 Craig Charles: UFO Conspiracies (PG) 6:15 If You Are The One (In Mandarin) 7:15 Jeopardy! 7:40 NITV News Update 7:45 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

2:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Mask” (PG) (’94) Stars: Jim Carrey

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Call The Midwife (M) 2:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 4:05 The Piano (PG) 5:10 Landline 5:40 Australian Story 6:15 Father Brown (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Call The Midwife (M) 9:30 Bergerac (M l,v) 10:20 The Split (M l) 11:20 rage Guest Programmer (MA15+) 5:00 rage (MA15+)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Americas: Andes (PG) 8:00 Movie: “Jurassic Park” (PG) (’93) Stars: Sam Neill 10:25 Movie: “Predator” (M l,v) (’87) Stars: Shane Black 12:40 The Black Donnellys (M d,s,v) 2:00 Home Shopping 4:00 It’s Academic 5:00 House Of Wellness (PG)

6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra - Saturday 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 Drive TV 1:00 Great Australian Detour 1:30 Young Sheldon (PG) 2:00 The Floor (PG) 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Quantum Of Solace” (M v) (’08) Stars: Olga Kurylenko

10:00 The Weekly Kick-Off 10:30 10 Minute Kitchen 11:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 12:10 Good Chef Bad Chef 12:30 The Yes Experiment 1:00 Roads Less Travelled 1:30 What’s Up Down Under 2:00 Buy To Build 2:30 Food Trail - South Africa 3:00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 7:30 Love It Or List It Australia 8:40 House Hunters Australia (PG)

10:00 Hugh’s Wild West (PG) 11:05 Lap Of Luxury - Escapes Down Under (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Cycling: La Vuelta Femenina Highlights 3:00 Heroines (PG) 3:30 Gymnastics: International Highlights 4:30 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 5:30 How To Lose A War 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Eurovision Semi Final 2: Access All Areas (PG) 10:00 The Day The Rock Star Died (PG) 10:30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys (PG)

1:00 Escape To The Country 3:00 Better Homes And Gardens 4:00 Escape To The Country 6:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 11:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG)

1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 Australia Rediscovered 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 NDRC Nitro Funny Cars 4:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 AFL: Round 10: GWS v Fremantle *Live* 9:00 Storage Wars (PG)

4:30 Tradition On A 12:00 Dream Home Plate (PG) 5:00 Wild (PG) 1:30 Zumbo’s Just Kitchen With Clayton Desserts (PG) 2:50 Donovan 5:30 The Barber (PG) Starstruck (PG) 4:25 Dodger 6:00 Moko: Origins And (PG) 5:25 Movie: “Isle Of Dogs” (PG) (’18) Stars: Bryan Decline (PG) 6:40 The Other Cranston 7:30 Movie: “Green Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia Book” (M l) (’18) Stars: Viggo (M l) 8:30 Movie: “A Nightmare On Elm Street” (M) (’84) Mortensen

11:30 Judge Judy (PG) 12:00 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 1:00 Numb3rs (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Semi-Final 1: Melbourne Victory v Auckland FC *Live*

10:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 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) 10:30 Frasier (M)

1:30 Maine Cabin Masters (PG) 2:30 Building Alaska (PG) 3:30 My Lottery Dream Home 4:00 Energy Matters 4:30 Colin And Justin’s Sub Zero Reno 5:30 Chateau DIY 6:30 Quick Little Builds 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

4:10 Odd Squad 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:10 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Rocket Club 7:30 Kids Baking Championship 8:10 Chopped Junior

2:00 ABC News 2:30 The Breakfast Couch 3:00 ABC News 3:30 If You’re Listening 3:50 ABC News 4:15 Planet America 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News

1:50 ER (PG) 2:40 Doctor Who (PG) 3:25 Penn And Teller: Fool Us (PG) 4:05 A Bite To Eat With Alice 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Old House New Home (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG)

5:30 Dishing It Up 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 Far Eastern Odyssey 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown 10:30 David Rocco’s Dolce Tuscany

3:40 PBS News Hour 4:45 Over The Black Dot 5:15 Mastermind (PG) 6:15 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:05 Cycling: Stage 8: Giro d’Italia *Live* 1:35 Sirius: The Origins (MA15+) (In French/ English) 2:30 NHK World English News

3:30 Jeopardy! (UK) (PG) 4:30 Young Sheldon (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London” (PG) (’04) Stars: Frankie Muniz 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone” (PG) (’01) Stars: Emma Watson

2:20 Movie: “Flight From Ashiya” (PG) (’64) Stars: Yul Brynner 4:30 Rugby Union: Pacific Four Series: Women’s: Wallaroos v USA *Live* 7:00 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: Brumbies v Reds *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post-Match

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 (PG) 3:30 Grand Designs (PG) 4:40 The Kimberley 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 The Piano (PG) 8:30 Bergerac (M l,v) 9:15 Reunion (M l) 10:15 Judy & Punch (MA15+) 12:00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Sunday Footy Feast 2:30 Jabba’s Movies (PG) 3:00 Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 4:30 Highway Cops (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The 1% Club UK (PG) 8:00 7News Spotlight (PG) 9:00 24 Hours In Police Custody (M l) 10:10 Crime Investigation Australia (MA15+) 11:30 Autopsy - USA (M)

6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 Sunday Footy Show (PG) 1:00 Fish Forever 1:30 Drive TV 2:00 Surfboat: ASRLQ Surfboat Super Series 3:00 NRL: Raiders v Titans *Live* 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Travel Guides (PG) 8:30 60 Minutes (PG) 9:30 Killer Interviews With Piers Morgan (M l,v) 10:30 NINE News Late 11:00 See No Evil (M) 11:50 Surfboat: ASRLQ Surfboat Super Series

10:00 10 Minute Kitchen 10:30 Pooches At Play 11:00 My Market Kitchen 11:30 Roads Less Travelled 12:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 1:10 Everyday Gourmet 1:30 Cook With Luke 2:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 2:30 All 4 Adventure 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 The Sunday Project (PG) 7:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 8:15 House Hunters Australia (PG) 9:15 FBI (M v) 11:05 The Sunday Project (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

2:00 South Aussie With Cosi (PG) 2:30 Animal SOS Australia (PG) 3:00 Better Homes And Gardens 4:00 Escape To The Country 7:00 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (M) 10:30 The Yorkshire Steam Railway (PG)

2:00 Fishy Business (PG) 2:30 AFL: PreGame 3:00 AFL: Round 10: Brisbane v Melbourne *Live* 6:00 The Wash Up 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Bourne Legacy” (M v) (’12) Stars: Donna Murphy

1:00 Starstruck (PG) 2:00 A Moveable Feast 2:40 Home And Away (PG) 4:30 Baking It (PG) 5:30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M s,v)

11:00 Escape Fishing 4:00 Stompem Ground: With ET 11:30 I Fish King Of Hearts 4:25 12:00 Pooches At Play Movie: “Electric Lady Studios: A Hendrix Vision” (PG) (PG) 12:30 Exploring Off The (’24) Director: John McDermott Grid (PG) 1:30 MasterChef 6:05 Queer & Here (PG) 6:35 Australia (PG) 2:40 Numb3rs (PG) 3:35 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS NITV News Update 6:45 Wildlife Rescue New Zealand (M v) 10:20 Seal Team (MA15+) (PG) 7:35 The Frontier (PG)

4:10 Odd Squad 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:10 Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood 5:30 Peter Rabbit 6:10 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:40 Hey Duggee 7:05 Rocket Club 7:35 Moominvalley 8:00 Horrible Histories (PG) 8:30 Fresh Off The Boat

2:00 ABC News 2:30 Australian Story 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 ABC News Regional 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Stateline 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders

2:35 ER (PG) 3:20 Doctor Who (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Old House New Home (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI (PG)

5:30 Cheese: Searching For A Taste Of Place 6:30 James Martin’s French Adventure 7:30 Paula McIntyre’s Hamely Kitchen USA 8:00 My Greatest Dishes 8:30 Rick Stein’s Food Heroes 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

1:30 Figure Skating: ISU World Championships 3:05 Jeopardy!

5:10 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 5:35 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 6:00 The Abandoned Engineering (PG) 7:50 Science Fiction Revolution (MA15+)

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

5:00 Eurovision Grand Final *Live* (PG) 9:00 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 10:00 Football: FIFA World Cup Classic Matches 11:30 Lap Of Luxury (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Judo 1:00 Motorsport: Speedweek 3:00 Gymnastics: International Highlights 4:30 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 5:30 The Seabees On Iwo Jima (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Eurovision Grand Final: Access All Areas (PG) 12:00 Movie: “Amazing Grace” (G) (’18)

1:30 Mexico Life 2:30 6:00 Deal Or No Deal Holiday Homes In The 8:00 Frasier (PG) 10:00 Sun 3:30 Quick Little Ridiculousness (PG) Builds 4:30 Escape To The 11:00 The Late Show With Chateau 5:30 House Hunters Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 USA 6:30 House Hunters Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) International 7:30 Fixer Upper (PG) 8:30 Zombie House 6:30 The Big Bang Theory Flipping (PG) (PG) 9:30 Frasier (PG) 2:35 Movie: “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (G) (’68) Stars: Dick Van Dyke 5:35 Movie: “The Pink Panther” (PG) (’06) Stars: Steve Martin 7:30 Movie: “Edge Of Tomorrow” (M l) (’14) Stars: Tom Cruise 9:45 Movie: “Nobody” (MA15+) (’21)

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

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2:00 Are You Being Served? (PG) 3:00 Antiques Roadshow 3:30 Movie: “A Man About The House” (PG) (’47) Stars: Margaret Johnston 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 West Coast Cops (M v)

12:30 Dad’s Army (PG) 1:00 Edgar Wallace Mysteries (PG) 2:15 Movie: “Orders To Kill” (PG) (’58) Stars: Lillian Gish 4:30 Movie: “Beachhead” (PG) (’54) Stars: Tony Curtis 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Hunter Killer” (MA15+) (’18)

Thursday 22 May

Wednesday 21 May

Tuesday 20 May

Monday 19 May

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12:00 ABC News 1:00 Landline 2:00 Restoration Australia 3:00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 3:30 Grand Designs House Of The Year 4:15 Long Lost Family What Happened Next (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story 4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG)

12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Movie: “Lethal Love Triangle” (AKA ‘A Criminal Affair’) (M v) (’21) Stars: Savvy Shay 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 9:05 9-1-1 - Lone Star (M) 10:05 Suits L.A. (M)

4:00 Aussie Lobster Men (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG)

12:00 Movie: “A Lifeguard’s Obsession” (M v) (’23) Stars: Amanda Jones 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 The Floor (PG) 8:45 100% Footy (M) 9:45 NINE News Late 10:15 Aussie Road Train Truckers (M l)

1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 MasterChef Australia (PG) 8:40 Have You Been Paying Attention?

(M l,s) 9:40 Making Of Mission Impossible

4:00 Good Chef Bad 12:30 In The Dark (M v) 5:00 Harlem 5:00 Bondi Vet (PG) Chef 4:30 The King Of 2:30 Numb3rs (M) 3:30 Globetrotters: Play It 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) Queens (PG) 5:00 Jake And The Fatman Forward (PG) 5:30 The 7:30 Law & Order: (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law 77 Percent 6:00 Bamay 6:35 & Order: SVU (M v) 9:30 Law & Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) My Life Is Murder (M v) Who Do You Think You Are? Order True Crime (M s,v)

5:30 PBS News 6:00 Marcus Wareing’s 5:30 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Weekend 6:00 Alone Kitchen Garden Tales Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Peter Rabbit 6:10 Denmark (PG) (In 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Super Monsters 6:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw Danish) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz The Adventures Of Paddington ABC News With Joe O’Brien (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 8:05 Would 7:30 Marion Grasby’s Flavours: NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out 7:00 Supertato 7:35 Star Wars: 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 Of 10 Cats Does Countdown Heart And Home ABC National News 7:30 7:30 I Lie To You? (PG) Young Jedi Adventures

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Call The Midwife (M) 2:00 Restoration Australia 2:55 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 3:25 Grand Designs - House Of The Year 4:15 Long Lost Family - What Happened Next (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Ludwig (M)

12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Farmer Wants 12:00 The Floor (PG) 1:15 My Way (PG) A Wife (PG) 2:35 Surveillance Oz (PG) 3:00 1:30 Getaway (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 7:30 The Floor (PG) 8:45 Australian Crime Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 9:10 Doc (M) Stories - The Investigators (M v) 9:45 NINE 10:10 Accused (M) 11:10 The Agenda News Late 10:15 Wild Cards (M v) Setters 12:10 The Act (MA15+)

4:00 Cities Of The Underworld (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG)

2:25 Interest Rate 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Decision *Live* 3:00 Peter Rabbit 6:10 ABC News Afternoons Super Monsters 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 7:00 Supertato 7:35 Star Wars: ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour Young Jedi Adventures

2:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 3:00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 3:30 Grand Designs - House Of The Year 4:15 Long Lost Family - What Happened Next (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Gruen 8:35 The Weekly (PG)

6:00 Marcus Wareing’s 5:30 George Clarke’s Kitchen Garden Tales Old House New Home 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: The Cook Up With Adam Liaw Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 8:05 Would 7:30 Cooking With Curtis 8:00 The Big Irish Food Tour I Lie To You? (PG)

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

2:55 The Weekly Football Wrap 3:25 Plat Du Tour 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Scotland’s Riverwoods (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8:30 Insight (PG) 9:30 Dateline (PG) 10:05 SBS World News Late

1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 MasterChef Australia (PG) 8:40 Elsbeth (M v) 9:40 FBI: International (M v) 10:40 10’s Late News

12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Movie: “Someone Is Watching” (AKA ‘Lethal Love Letter’) (M v) (’21) Stars: Clare Grant 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 8:30 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 10:30 The Amazing Race

5:10 Forged In Fire (PG) 6:00 Alone Denmark (PG) (In Danish) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 The Day The Rock Star Died (PG)

12:00 The Hundred With Andy Lee (M l) 1:00 Drive TV 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: Bulldogs v Dolphins *Live* 9:45 NRL: Post-match 10:30 NINE News Late

5:00 Make You Laugh 5:00 American Out Loud (PG) 6:00 Restoration (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 American Pickers (PG) 7:00 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares AFL: Round 11: Geelong v USA (MA15+) Western Bulldogs *Live*

5:00 Bargain Mansions 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Help!

We Bought A Village 8:30 Chateau DIY

5:30 The Travelling 6:00 The Golden Girls Auctioneers 6:30 (PG) 6:30 The Nanny Antiques Roadshow (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 7:30 New Tricks (PG) 8:40 The 8:30 Movie: “Ready Player Chelsea Detective (M v) 10:40 One” (M l,v) (’18) Stars: Tye Sheridan 11:15 Seinfeld (PG) The Closer (M v)

2:30 Insight (PG) 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 4:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:40 Mysteries Of Sink Holes (PG) 9:35 The Handmaid’s Tale (MA15+)

4:00 Good Chef Bad 12:30 In The Dark (M v) 5:30 APTN National 4:10 Puppy School Chef 4:30 The King Of 2:30 Numb3rs (PG) News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 (PG) 5:10 Bondi Vet Queens (PG) 5:00 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:00 Judge Judy 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) (PG) 7:30 Ocean Warriors: (PG) 7:30 House (PG) 10:30 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 10:30 The Weekly Kick-Off Mission Ready 9:00 Movie: First Dates UK (PG) 1:40 10 11:00 My Life Is Murder (M v) Friends (PG) Years Younger In 10 Days (PG) “Luv” (M d,l,v) (’12)

6:00 Marcus Wareing’s 5:30 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Kitchen Garden Tales Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Peter Rabbit 6:00 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Octonauts 6:30 The The Cook Up With Adam Liaw Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz ABC News With Joe O’Brien Adventures Of Paddington (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 8:05 Would 7:30 Nadiya Bakes 8:00 7:05 Dino Dex 7:35 Star Wars: 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 Rachael Ray In Tuscany ABC National News 7:30 7:30 I Lie To You? (PG) Young Jedi Adventures

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Sherwood (M l,v) 2:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 3:00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 3:30 Grand Designs - House Of The Year 4:15 Long Lost Family - What Happened Next (PG) 5:00 A Bite To Eat With Alice 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG)

1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 MasterChef Australia (PG) 8:40 The Cheap Seats (M l) 9:40 The Inspired Unemployed - The List (M v)

5:10 Forged In Fire (PG) 6:00 Alone Denmark (PG) (In Danish) 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown

5:00 Zombie House Flipping (PG) 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 House Hunters International

3:30 Movie: “The Fallen 6:00 The Golden Girls Idol” (G) (’48) Stars: (PG) 6:30 The Nanny Ralph Richardson 5:30 (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) The Travelling Auctioneers 8:30 Movie: “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre” (M) 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Death In Paradise (M v) (’23) Stars: Jason Statham

4:00 Good Chef Bad 12:30 In The Dark (M v) 5:30 Indian Country 5:00 Bondi Vet (PG) Chef 4:30 The King Of 2:30 Numb3rs (M) 3:30 Today News 6:00 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) Queens (PG) 5:00 Jake And The Fatman Bamay 6:35 Tales 7:30 CSI: Crime Scene (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) Investigation (M s,v) 8:30 CSI: From Zambia (PG) 7:30 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Miami (MA15+) 9:30 CSI: New Haututu Hunters (PG) 8:30 Pro JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 9:30 NCIS: Los Angeles (M v) Friends (PG) Bull Riding USA York (MA15+)

12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Farmer Wants 12:00 The Floor (PG) 1:15 Innovation Nation A Wife (PG) 2:40 Surveillance Oz (PG) 3:00 1:30 Young Sheldon (PG) 2:00 Pointless The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 (PG) 7:30 The Hundred With Andy Lee (PG) Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire 8:30 The Grand Tour (M l) 10:00 Freddy UK (PG) 8:30 The Front Bar (M l) 9:30 And The Eighth (M l) 11:00 NINE News Late Unfiltered (PG)

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

3:00 Travel Shooters (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy!

(PG) 4:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Stockholm With Michael Portillo 8:25 Bettany Hughes Treasures Of The Adriatic (PG) 9:20 Inside Windsor Castle

5:00 Chateau DIY 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town (PG) 8:30 Good Bones 9:30 No Demo Reno

5:30 The Travelling 6:00 The Golden Girls Auctioneers 6:30 (PG) 6:30 The Nanny Antiques Roadshow (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Ocean’s Twelve” 7:30 Yes Prime Minister 8:40 Midsomer Murders (M s,v) (M l) (’04) Stars: Brad Pitt 10:40 The Closer (M v) 11:00 Seinfeld (PG)

1:00 10 News First: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Taskmaster Australia (M l,s) 8:40 The Inspired Unemployed - The List (M l) 9:40 The Cheap Seats (M l)

3:00 Living Black 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 4:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 Cycling: Giro d’Italia Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 History’s Greatest Mysteries (M) 8:25 Liberation - D-Day To Berlin (M) (In English/ French) 9:15 Sherlock & Daughter

4:00 Good Chef Bad 12:30 In The Dark (M v) 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Tales Chef 4:30 The King Of 2:30 Numb3rs (M) 3:30 From Zambia (PG) 7:30 Queens (PG) 5:00 Jake And The Fatman Going Places With (PG) 4:30 Numb3rs (PG) 5:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30 Tribal 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) (M) 9:25 Movie: “Kiss The 10:20 My Life Is Murder (M v) Friends (PG) Girls” (MA15+) (’97)

5:00 No Demo Reno 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Find My Country House NZ 8:30 Restored

6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Survivor 48 (PG) 10:30 Made In Korea: The K-Pop Experience (PG) 11:30 Seinfeld (PG)

5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 RBT (M l) 8:30 Emergency (M) 9:30 A&E: Crash Scene Emergency (M)

6:00 Marcus Wareing’s 5:30 George Clarke’s 3:00 ABC News 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Kitchen Garden Tales Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Peter Rabbit 6:10 6:30 Oliver’s Twist 7:00 (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Super Monsters 6:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw Secret Agent 7:05 Hard Quiz The Adventures Of Paddington ABC News With Joe O’Brien (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 8:10 Would 7:30 Jason Atherton’s Dubai 7:00 Supertato 7:35 Star Wars: 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 Dishes ABC National News 7:30 7.30 I Lie To You? (PG) Young Jedi Adventures

5:20 Forged In Fire (PG) 6:10 Over The Black Dot 6:40 Travel Man (PG) 7:10 Jeopardy! 7:35 NITV News Update 7:40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown

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

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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At the movies...

REVIEW Thunderbolts*  2 hours, 6 minutes ‘Thunderbolts*’ is the newest Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movie that follows a group of rag tag antiheroes who find themselves ensnared in a death trap which they must work together to escape from.

The unconventional team then embarks on a dangerous mission that forces them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts.

The team called the Thunderbolts* (the asterisk has been a marketing tool which makes sense after seeing the movie) follows Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), John Walker (Wyatt Russell), Ghost (Hannah JohnKamen), Alexei Shostakov (David Harbour) and Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) who have been working as operatives for morally grey CIA Director Valentina Allegra De Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) but turn against De Fontaine as she unveils Sentry (Lewis

Pullman), another one of the MCU’s flawed attempts to recreate Captain America.

Part of the plot is that this misfit group of antiheroes have to deal with things from their past that they aren’t proud of. The character’s guilt is explored in some touching and brutal sequences but I wish we saw more. For example, Bucky Barnes is a fan favourite character that has appeared in 10-plus movies, but we don’t get much more than surface level from him in this movie.

Instead, we focus on the other characters that we don’t care about as much, probably as a way to get the audiences to care for them. This is a nitpick but with Bucky being one of my favourites I was sad he didn’t get as much focus as the others.

Since the movie came out, I have seen a lot of discourse online where it has been

See these movies at...

labelled the ‘best Marvel movie since ‘Avengers: Endgame’’ which I don’t entirely agree with. I think the movie was good but not great, which is disappointing given it followed some of my favourite characters from past Marvel projects.

I think the film had a strong opening with a rushed ending. Sitting at just over two hours the movie moves along at a pretty fast pace but stumbles a bit in its final act.

‘Thunderbolts*’ moves away from the

expansive Infinity Saga that many MCU fans got to know, this story is on a smaller scale and tells a story that is scrappy and less polished, I really liked that.

The movie has a really tight narrative that audiences haven’t seen in a while.

The MCU connection comes later in the post credit scene (arguably my favourite scene in the movie) and links the story to the wider MCU. – Emily Chate

PENRITH

www.hoyts.com.au

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Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

National Volunteer Week S P O N S O R ED CO NTENT

Volunteering boosts your mental health A

and in the future.

“In a year marked by natural disasters, rising cost-of-living pressures, and growing social challenges, the role of volunteers has never been more important. Across Australia, volunteers have stepped up in countless ways – offering critical support during emergencies, help-

ing people access food and essential services, strengthening community connections, and supporting local events,” he said.

“Volunteers are the heart of our communities, and their contributions are vital in times of need.”

The scale of volunteer involvement in Australia is substantial.

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ustralia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, National Volunteer Week (May 19-25), will shine a spotlight on the millions of volunteers making an extraordinary impact on their communities.

This year’s theme, Connecting Communities, will celebrate how volunteering is bringing people together, strengthening local connections, and fostering stronger, more resilient communities across the nation.

Volunteering empowers people to make a positive impact and in return volunteering provides a multitude of benefits for individuals, communities and the nation.

It’s a uniquely good indicator of community wellbeing as it captures social connectedness, physical and mental health, sense of purpose, and connection to place. In fact, volunteers often report a feeling of belonging, improved mental health, and stronger social connections that reduce loneliness.

CEO of Volunteering Australia, Mark Pearce, said this National Volunteer Week we’re recognising how integral volunteers are to cohesive and inclusive communities, something that’s essential to strong Australian communities both now

Around six million people volunteer through organisations across the nation.

“The latest figures demonstrate that volunteering is essential to the fabric of Australian society – not just in economic terms, but also in its ability to connect people from diverse backgrounds and build

social resilience during challenging times, including natural disasters and rising living costs,” Pearce said.

“At its core, volunteering is about people: people doing things for others, for their community, and for the nation. Volunteering is much more than just offering help – it’s about building connections, sharing knowledge, and creating spaces for people to belong,” added Pearce.

“As volunteering continues to evolve, it’s essential that we recognise and support new ways of giving, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and included in shaping a better future for all.”

National Volunteer Week 2025 invites everyone to celebrate the incredible work of volunteers and consider how they can contribute to their communities.

Volunteering Australia is welcoming everyone who has considered volunteering to take the leap and discover how their time, energy, and unique talents can make real change.

Those inspired to try volunteering this National Volunteer Week are encouraged to visit the GoVolunteer website, contact their state or territory Volunteering Peak Body, or approach organisations in their local community.

4721 1444

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Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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National Volunteer Week S P O N S O R ED CO NTENT

Powerful reminder of how important volunteering can be

A

Become a Volunteer Change Lives with the Digital Literacy Foundation

We’re looking for friendly, patient volunteers to support two of our vital programs and improve social inclusion across the Nepean area.

Digital Mentoring: Become a Tech Mate and help older adults gain confidence using their digital devices. From sending emails to accessing online services, your guidance can open up a whole new world.

Social Support: Assist older adults to remain independent through social visits, accompanied outings, and connection to services.

We provide you with training and will match you with a suitable client. There’s no waiting to see your impact – it’s obvious from the outset. What we do is a really uplifting and amazing experience!

(02) 9090 4141

hello@dlf.org.au

digitalliteracy.org.au

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Contact the Digital Literacy Foundation to register your interest:

s CEO and Founder of Uniting Circle Multicultural Community Centre located in the heart of Penrith, Mujgan Tahery is proud to join the Western Weekender and our wider community in celebrating National Volunteer Week.

“This special week is a powerful reminder of the immense value that volunteers bring to our society, and it is a privilege to acknowledge their dedication, compassion, and hard work,” she said.

At Uniting Circle, the mission is to foster connection, understanding, and opportunity for people from all backgrounds including our vibrant multicultural communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“Every day, I witness the positive impact that volunteers have: from delivering essential programs and support services to organising cultural events that bring people together and break down barriers,” Tahery said.

“Volunteering is more than just giving time; it is about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating pathways for a better future.

Our volunteers are the heart of our organisation.

“Their selfless efforts ensure that newcomers feel welcome, that those in need receive support, and that our community continues to grow stronger and more inclusive.

“During National Volunteer Week, I extend my deepest gratitude to every volunteer – past and present – who has contributed to our vision. Your generosity and spirit inspire us all. I encourage everyone to consider the power of volunteering, as together we can create lasting change and a brighter, more united future for all.”

Visit www.unitingcircle. org.au.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney with CEO of Uniting Circle Mujgan Tahery.

Fostering Inclusivity & Support Within Diverse Communities As CEO and Founder of Uniting Circle Multicultural Community Centre in Penrith, I’m proud to celebrate National Volunteer Week with the Western Weekender and our community. Volunteers are the heart of our organisation—supporting programs, fostering inclusion, and building a stronger future. Their dedication helps newcomers feel welcome and ensures vital services reach those in need. I thank every volunteer for their compassion and encourage everyone to embrace the power of volunteering to create a more united, inclusive society.

Services Include:

CEO & Founder, Mujgan Tahery

52

• Settlement and Practical Support • Employment and Business Support • Health and Wellbeing • Community Networking and Events

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• Counselling and Social Support • Language, Education and Skills Training • Registered NDIS Provider • My Aged Care - Home Care Package Provider • Youth Engagement • Special Focus and Community

Get in touch with us today: 142 Lethbridge St, Penrith | (02) 4726 2633 | info@unitingcircle.org.au

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

STYLE SUCCESS NEW GUIDE TO DRIVE HOME RENOVATIONS | SEE PAGE 54 The Experts

Relax & Unwind

RARE GLENBROOK OPPORTUNITY

GIVE YOUR OLD PC A NEW PURPOSE

CHECK OUT OUR PET OF THE WEEK

SEE PAGE 55

SEE PAGE 60

SEE PAGE 62

Proudly Serving Western Sydney & The Hills District with Six Office Locations PETER DIAMANTIDIS Director | Selling Principal

0404 051 702 | peter.d@raywhite.com raywhiteunitedgroup.com

54000

Western Property

FEATURE STORY Western Property

NEW GUIDE PUTS STYLE RIGHT IN YOUR HANDS T

he way we design Australian homes has always been influenced by global trends, but what makes them truly ours is how we adapt these ideas to suit our unique landscapes, climates, and lifestyles.

Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating your dream home, understanding the design and building process and making informed decisions is the key to creating a home that reflects your personal style and stands the test of time.

After years of industry-leading trend research and forecasting, Australia’s leading building materials company, CSR is launching its CSR Style Guide – a comprehensive home design and build toolkit covering exterior material colour palettes and unique home designs. Inspired by global trends and adapted to suit Australians, the Style Guide will assist homeowners on their building journey, offering practical tools, expert advice, and a wealth of inspiration from leading Australian brands Bradford, Cemintel, Hebel, Monier, and PGH. By combining curated material palettes, innovative home designs, and insights into the unseen layers of construction, it provides a holistic approach to building.

“With the right knowledge, homeowners can shape every aspect of their home – from the colours and materials to the performance elements that ensure comfort and sustainability,” said Renee McGinty, General Manager of Marketing, CSR. “It’s about creating a space that doesn’t just look beautiful but also feels right for the way you live.”

Homeowners often turn to social media and design magazines for inspiration, but the CSR Style Guide takes it a step further, helping you connect the dots between design, materials, and performance. Here are the main elements to consider when creating your dream home: Define your style through design Every home begins with a vision, and understanding your style or ‘look’ is the first step.

The CSR Style Guide showcases six popular home designs, each with its own unique character, to inspire your build journey.

Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines and minimalist

0413 421 166

54

Make colour work for you The colours you choose for your home define its personality and connection to its surroundings.

A well-chosen palette can evoke calm, create bold drama, or tie your home to nature. The CSR Style Guide features nine curated material colour palettes, including Bright Whites, Strong Darks, and Rich Browns, offering options to suit various architectural styles and personal tastes.

Add depth with texture Texture brings character and individuality to your home’s façade, transforming a simple design into something extraordinary. Combining materials with varying finishes, like PGH Bricks and Cemintel cladding, creates a façade that is visually striking and full of dimension.

For instance, pairing smooth fibre cement cladding with

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

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“HOMEOWNERS CAN SHAPE EVERY ASPECT OF THEIR HOME”

textured bricks adds contrast and depth, resulting in a layered, architectural look that stands out in the streetscape. This approach also allows you to highlight key features of your home, such as entryways or accent walls.

Texture also lets you express your personal style. A Modernist home might use earthy textures like stone or bagged brickwork for a natural, grounded aesthetic, while an Industrial design could emphasise bold contrasts with rough, raw finishes for an urban edge.

By thoughtfully mixing materials, you can create a cohesive yet dynamic design that reflects your style and elevates your home’s overall appeal.

Don’t forget what you can’t see Beneath the surface of every stunning home lies a carefully considered foundation of materials designed to ensure comfort, durability, and performance.

While a home’s facade and design style often take centre stage, it’s the unseen layers that make it functional and liveable yearround. Insulation plays a critical role in regulating indoor temperatures, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Bring it all together Landscaping is more than decoration – it creates functional spaces that reflect your lifestyle, whether for entertaining, relaxing, or spending time with family.

Thoughtfully planned landscaping extends your home’s materials and design style, ensuring a seamless connection between the building and outdoor spaces.

The CSR Style Guide ensures homeowners are not just inspired but informed, giving them the confidence to work with builders and designers. For more information, download the CSR Style Guide at dwelling.csr.com.au.

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elegance of a Contemporary home, the raw textural elements and bold contrasts of Industrial design, or the dramatic gabled rooflines and open spaces of a Barnhouse, there’s a design to suit every taste. For those seeking timeless charm, the Classic style offers traditional gabled rooflines and distinctive fibre cement cladding, while the Modernist design is a highly liveable design style with its nod to mid-century inspiration and connected indoor/ outdoor spaces. If a fresh, breezy aesthetic is your preference, the Coastal style with its varying rooflines and mixed materials has a simple and effortless look.

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33 PARK ST, GLENBROOK

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

RARE BUSINESS CHANCE! What is so great about this property?

An extremely rare opportunity to secure a freehold commercial property within Glenbrook Village.

Who does this property suit?

Ideal opportunity for both investors and occupiers.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Glenbrook is an extremely tightly held and vibrant suburb in the Lower Blue Mountains.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

8 OPEN FOR INSPECTION Contact Agent

55501

CONTACT Macqarie Commercial Matthew Neale • 0420 808 349 matthew@maccom.com.au

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

55

Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned precinct offering premium land lots and architecturally designed residences in one of South-West Sydney’s fastest-growing communities.

PR I C E S S TA R T FROM $554, 50 0 ––– FE AT U R E S M A N I C U R E D G A R D E N S A N D G R E E N S PAC E S, A L L M A I NTA I N E D U N D E R A CO M M U N I T Y T I T L E S C H E M E ––– W E L L P OS I T I O N E D N E A R T H E R A PI D LY E X PA N D I N G O R A N PA R K TOW N C E N T R E

Located near Oran Park’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an address that blends nature with urban conveniences.

It’s a place you’ll want to call home.

Artist impression

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

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

1/171-173 Derby St, Penrith

JUST LISTED

2

1

1

21/30 Putland Street, St Marys

2

• 2 generous-sized bedrooms • Main bedroom with built-in robes • Natural light-filled living room with access to the balcony • Well-sized kitchen with newly-installed cupboards and ample storage • Spacious bathroom with newly-installed mirror • Internal Laundry • Spacious balcony with freshly-painted flooring • Carport • Secured complex with intercom • Located on the ground floor

1

1

OFF MARKET ARRANGE PRIVATE VIEWING NOW

PROPERTY LAUNCH CONTACT AGENT

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

97 Richmond Road, Cambridge Park

3

1

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

1+

25 Noamunga Crescent, Gwandalan

• 3 generously-sized bedrooms, 1 featuring builtin robes, • Bright and airy living room with air conditioning • Contemporary kitchen with ample benchtop space and storage • Renovated bathroom with an expansive shower • Spacious external laundry • Large backyard • Well-manicured front garden with beautiful flowers and plants • Backs onto a playground and reserve, offering a more peaceful and private living environment • Covered carport with concreted driveway • Zoned R2, with potential for a granny flat or swimming pool (STCA) • Situated on a 556.4sqm block

JUST LISTED

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

Newcastle Area

Cambridge Park

3

Living area 174m2 Land area 335m2 Luxury inclusions: 2.7m ceilings, ducted aircon, walk-in pantry and more LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

1

1.5

42 College Street, Cambridge Park

2

2+

With plenty of buyers ready to purchase, now would be the perfect time to find out what your property is worth. Contact Gizzelle today for a FREE, up-to-date market appraisal on your home.

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

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

3

1

1

Endless Potential in a Prime Location

This is a fantastic opportunity to renovate, rebuild, or invest in a property with outstanding potential. Set in a highly sought-after location, this home offers easy access to local amenities, quality schools, public transport, and parklands – making it an ideal choice for families and developers alike.

While the property does require some work, its position on a generous 574.2sqm block presents a rare chance to transform it into your dream home or investment project.

Whether you’re a homeowner ready to create something special or an investor seeking value in a growth area, this property offers solid potential in a well-established, familyfriendly neighbourhood.

JUST SOLD

SOLD Very Happy Client Professional and reliable

the moment we reached out to Gizzelle “ From she was incredibly responsive and helpful.

It was nice to see such enthusiasm. Gizzelle is extremely knowledgeable of the local market.

She’s responsive in communication and effective in negotiating a fair deal with the sale of our property.

We would most definitely call upon Gizzelle in the future.

”

(Verified by RateMyAgent)

Open House: Contact Agent

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

Gizzelle Powell 0428 934 618

5

• 3 generous-sized bedrooms, all fitted with built ins and ceiling fans • Spacious living room with natural light • Modern kitchen with breakfast bar, dishwasher, rangehood, and ample storage • Separate dining • Main bathroom with separate toilet • Internal laundry with extra toilet • Under stair storage • Secured lock-up garage with internal access • Split system air conditioning • Spacious courtyard Open House: Contact Agent

2 Lewis Road, Cambridge Gardens

Put our Winning Team to Work

1

Fixed Price $709,990

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

JUST LISTED

2

SMSF/Investors/1st Homebuyers

Coming Soon 3

1

COASTAL RETREAT

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

10/18 Second Avenue, Kingswood

1

50m to the water

Open House: Contact Agent

JUST LISTED

2

Litsa Meleti 0466 969 164

Uzrah Bi 0435 205 061

AGENT OF THE YEAR 6X Winner Cambridge Park 4X Winner Kingswood 3X Winner Penrith 2X Winner Werrington 3X National Top 100 Australia

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Thinking of Selling, Buying or Investing?

Call or SMS Gizzelle on 0428 934 618 Sharol Dolleton 02 4732 6007

Ed Powell 02 4732 6007

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

W

e often hear that exercise is good for us, but what if I told you, it could also significantly extend your life? As a physiotherapist, I witness daily how transformative physical activity can be. Recent studies now provide concrete evidence: increasing physical activity, even modestly, can add years to your life.

Adults aged 18 to 64 should aim for 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75–150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (such as dancing or circuit classes) each week.

Mu s c le -s t r en g t hen i n g activities should also be performed at least twice weekly. These recommendations apply to everyone, including those living with chronic conditions or disabilities. For older adults, balance and functional strength training is crucial to prevent falls and maintain independence.

The consequences of not

meeting these activity levels are significant. Inadequate physical activity is strongly associated with increased mortality. Encouragingly, even small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

Among the most sedentary individuals, walking just 28.5 minutes a day could increase life expectancy by over six years. Increasing that to around 111 minutes a day could add nearly 11 years.

People who meet aerobic activity guidelines reduce their risk of all-cause mortality by 29 per cent. Those who also meet muscle-strengthening guidelines see a 40per cent reduction. These are powerful statistics, showing

DENTIST’S DESK

The Experts

The Experts

AUSTRALIAN DENTAL LABS

A

KASEY COLLINS One Point Health 4732 5188 just how much control we have over our long-term health.

If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance on improving your overall health and life expectancy, book in to see one of our experienced physiotherapists at OnePointHealth.

We’ll work with you one-onone to create a personalised plan tailored to your goals, abilities, and lifestyle.

We also offer weekly Balance, Strengthening and Conditioning group classes – a safe, supportive, and social way to stay active and motivated whilst improving your fitness.

It’s never too late to move more. Your future self will thank you.

s a dentist with a strong focus on precision, safety, and patient-centred care, I’ve made a deliberate choice at Sydney Smile Doctor: we only work with Australian dental laboratories. This is not just about preference – it’s about delivering the highest quality outcomes for every patient we treat.

Australian dental labs are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which means they meet strict national standards for quality and safety. Whether it’s a porcelain crown, veneer, bridge or implant restoration, I can be confident that the materials used are biocompatible, durable, and safe – an assurance not always guaranteed when outsourcing work overseas.

One of the greatest advantages of working locally is real-time collaboration. I have direct communication with talented technicians right here in Australia, which allows us to work together on complex cases, review scans,

make aesthetic adjustments, and fine-tune fit. That close clinical-laboratory relationship translates to restorations that not only function exceptionally well but also look beautifully natural.

DR. ANDREW PETERSON Sydney Smile Doctor sydneysmiledoctor.com.au

There’s also the issue of reliability. With Australian labs, we benefit from faster turnaround times, fewer delays, and consistent quality control. There’s no waiting weeks for international shipping, and no concerns about supply chain disruptions or miscommunication due to time zone differences.

Beyond the clinical benefits, there’s also a deeper principle: supporting Australian craftsmanship and industry. Our local dental technicians are highly trained professionals whose skills are vital to modern dentistry. By keeping our lab work onshore, we’re contributing to the sustainability of our healthcare system and investing in the future of Australian dental excellence.

In the end, I believe your smile deserves nothing less than the best – and the best is right here at home. When patients choose Sydney Smile Doctor, they can be confident their treatment is truly local, safe and made to the highest standards.

Exceptional aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry in Penrith Dr Peterson is an internationally renowned dentist. With a Masters in Aesthetic Dentistry from Kings College London, he provides world class services here in Penrith.

BEFORE

AFTER

BOOK IN NOW Visit us: 196 Derby Street, Penrith Phone: 1300 645 680 Email: enquiries@sydneysmiledoctor.com.au www.sydneysmiledoctor.com.au

WW55864

THE KEY TO A HEALTHIER LIFE

HEALTH

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

59

TALKING TECH The Experts

TURN AN OLD MAC OR PC INTO A CHROMEBOOK R

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

ather than disposing of your older PC or Intelbased Mac, you can now convert them into a Chromebook and extend their lifetime. Google Chrome OS Flex, a version of Chrome OS, can run on this technology. This is an excellent solution for PCs and Macs that no longer have support or are receiving security updates.

Chrome OS Flex allows you to have a cloud-first, fast, easy to manage and secure operating system on older technology.

Chromebooks do not slow down over time and provide proactive protection. Chrome OS Flex is suitable both for home and personal use as well as for Business and Schools. Some of the pros and cons of the operating system are: • It is fast and boots up in seconds, breathing new life into your older unsupported PC/Mac. It is likely to run if your device has a least 4GB of Ram and 16GB of storage.

• It has proactive security

protecting you against the latest threats. It has built-in protection against viruses, ransomware and phishing.

• Feature and security updates occur in the background without interruption.

• Legacy applications can be run using Virtualisation tools.

• Google G-Suite is fully supported, as is Microsoft 365 web-based products.

• It does have a heavy reliance on an Internet connection for functionality.

• There is no windows or Mac application support.

• It is not good for gaming The install Process is: 1.

Backup your data – enable OneDrive sync to backup your data to the cloud or copy your data to a USB drive.

2. Create a bootable USB drive

– Using an 8GB USB thumb drive, you create a bootable drive.

3. Install Chromebook recovery Utility extension in Google Chrome – use this to make the USB drive bootable.

4. Download Chrome OS Flex – Download the installer onto the USB drive 5.

Restart your computer and boot from the USB Drive.

You may need to go into your BIOS/UEFI is not set to look for a USB boot device first. In most cases this is the default.

6.

Install Chrome OS Flex – Follow the onscreen instructions to install 7.

After a restart follow the onscreen instructions to complete the setup process.

More detailed instructions on how to install Chrome Flex can be found on the product website.

It’s easy to do. If you are uncomfortable with the upgrade process, your local computer support company can do this for you.

Did you know?

ONE MILLION IMPRESSIONS The Western Weekender website attracted 1.3 million impressions in the last month.

That’s 1.3 million times your business could have been up in lights and in front of locals.

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60

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

PET HEALTH The Experts

UNDERSTANDING URINARY PROBLEMS IN OUR CATS U

rinary issues are a common but serious concern in cats, often falling under the umbrella of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). This term covers a variety of conditions that affect the bladder and urethra, and can cause significant pain, discomfort, or even life-threatening complications. Early detection and treatment are essential, so it’s important for cat owners to be familiar with the signs.

KELLIE TICKNER

Signs to watch for One of the first clues your cat may have a urinary problem is a change in litter box habits. This might include urinating more frequently, straining, or going outside the box. If your cat is showing any of the following symptoms, a prompt visit to the vet is crucial: • Straining to urinate or crying out in pain • Frequent attempts to urinate with little or no output • Blood in the urine • Urinating in unusual places • Sudden behavioural changes, such as aggression or restlessness A cat that cannot urinate is experiencing a medical emergency and needs immediate veterinary care.

Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

What causes FLUTD?

FLUTD can affect cats of all ages but is more commonly seen in middle-aged, overweight, or indoor cats. Several different conditions can contribute to FLUTD, including: • Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): A common cause involving bladder inflammation with no clear underlying reason.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): More typical in older cats, these infections are caused by bacteria.

• Bladder Stones or Crystals: These can irritate the bladder or even cause a blockage in the urethra.

• Urethral Plugs: These blockages are formed from a mix of crystals, mucus, and cells.

• Stress: Environmental or emotional stress is a major trigger for urinary flare-ups.

• Tumours: Although rare, cancer of the bladder or urethra can also present as FLUTD. Often, FLUTD is multifactorial – caused by a combination of physical, dietary, and behavioural elements.

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication • A ntibiotics (if infection is present) • Special urinary diets and supplements • Encouraging increased water intake • Stress reduction strategies In cases of urethral blockage, emergency intervention is necessary to relieve the obstruction.

Diagnosis and management Diagnosing urinary issues involves a thorough examination by your vet, along with urine testing, and sometimes imaging. Treatment depends on the cause but may include:

Urinary health is a key part of your cat’s wellbeing. If you notice any signs of trouble, don’t delay – call Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 for advice or to book an appointment.

Tips for prevention You can help lower your cat’s risk of urinary issues by: • Providing clean, fresh water daily – consider a fountain or multiple water bowls • Feeding a moisture-rich diet (like wet food) • Keeping litter trays clean and easily accessible • Reducing stress with a calm environment or pheromone diffusers • Maintaining a healthy weight through play and enrichment

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

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

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53986

Contact us! s!

61

PET OF THE WEEK Relax & Unwind

my name: Maggie my proud owner: Philomena i live in: Cambridge Gardens a bit about me: I’m a four-year-old cavoodle who loves cuddles, sleeping, fetching my ball, and laying in the sun.

56184v

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

Breakfast with Ron Wilson 5:30am - 9am 62

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

Chris Smith Across Australia 9am - 12 Noon

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE Boho Astro @JoMadelineMoore © Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Courtesy of the powerful Sun in Gemini/Pluto in Aquarius trine, the buzz word this week is transformation.

But don’t worry about trying to change (or control) those around you. Focus on yourself first. Can you be more proactive in relationships, pivot professionally or transform your physical appearance?

Your motto is from this week’s birthday great, entertainer Cher, “The only thing in the world you can change is yourself and that makes all the difference.”

After two long years, Saturn is spending the last week transiting through Pisces. So it’s a good time to be focused, disciplined and patient. But don’t listen to your inner critic, as it tries to undermine your confidence and shake your self-esteem! Be inspired by singer-actress Cher (who turns 79 on Tuesday), “If you’re waiting for someone to believe in you, you’ll be waiting forever. You must believe in yourself.” On Thursday, share a dream with a special family member.

You’re in the mood for self-love, romance and/or friendship, as Venus (transiting through Aries) makes a lovely link to Mars (your ruling planet). So it’s a wonderful week to get your hair done, buy a fabulous outfit, enjoy an indulgent facial, manicure, pedicure or massage, plus eat delicious food as you socialise with close old friends or exciting new acquaintances. The weekend stars favour short trips, intense conversations and local community connections.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The Sun’s spending the last days in your sign, which provides a golden opportunity to fine-tune who you are and where you’re going. Quick smart! Thursday’s Venus/Mars trine pushes you to draw up a creative plan, as you start transforming your dreams into reality. Then Mercury and Uranus hook up in your sign, which encourages you to think outside the box.

Be inspired by Taurus birthday great, Cher, “If you can’t go straight ahead, go around the corner.”

It’s a big week for Twins as the Sun transits into your sign and makes a transformative trine to Pluto. So it’s time to be powerful, adventurous and generous.

Make the most of the next three weeks, as Jupiter (planet of travel and prosperity) finishes jumping through Gemini.

Explore, experiment and enthuse - here, there and everywhere! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Bob Dylan (who turns 84 on Saturday), “There is nothing so stable as change.”

Have you been burning the midnight oil and now you’re suffering from burnout? Or have you been running around on autopilot, making careless mistakes?

The Sun and Jupiter activate your solitude zone, so slip into hermit Crab mode as you slow down, simplify your life, prune projects or organise a digital detox. Meditation, contemplation, and relaxation are a must. You could also receive creative ideas or an important message from an intense dream.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

It’s your time to shine! The powerful Sun/Pluto trine favours big dreams, passionate partnerships and joint ventures, as you combine dazzling creativity with powerful determination.

Plus use your fertile imagination to help manifest your preferred future via goal setting, a practical plan and a patient approach So your mantra is from human rights activist Malcolm X (who was born on May 19, 1925), “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

Early in the week the Sun powers into your career zone and the focus shifts to professional matters. Then Mercury (your ruling planet) hooks up with Uranus on the weekend, when it’s a good time to question, philosophise, explore and innovate, as you throw out the old rule book and try something new. Be inspired by music great Bob Dylan (who turns 84 on Saturday), “Gonna change my way of thinking, make myself a different set of rules.”

It’s a wonderful week for relationships, parties, birthdays, engagements, weddings and anniversaries! Venus (transiting through your partnership zone) makes a lovely link with Mars (in your peer group zone). So love, romance, friendship, socialising and celebrating are all favoured as you mix and mingle; socialise and fraternise. And with the Sun shifting into your adventure zone (where it joins Jupiter) you could also book a trip or travel somewhere special.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Transformation is the name of the game, as the planets push you to rise Phoenix-like from the ashes of a difficult situation. A challenging close relationship has the potential to be reborn into a much more positive partnership. The Sun/Pluto trine (on the weekend) will help you release old grudges, let go of the past, forgive and forget, and move on. But it will take time, and a situation with a child, teenager or friend could be stressful for at least another week.

The Sun joins Jupiter (your patron planet) midweek in your partnership zone. So – when it comes to close relationships – it’s time to be creative, attentive, adventurous and generous.

Attached Archers – pamper your partner and show them they are still Number One. Unhappily single? You could fall for someone from another country or culture. Thursday’s Venus/Mars trine is terrific for creative projects, pleasure, leisure, romance, friendship and travel.

Avoid being a gullible Goat. A friend or family member could try to pull the wool over your eyes, so stay alert. Tuesday is terrific for completing a personal project or a business plan. This is the last week that Saturn (your patron planet) is transiting though the sign of Pisces. So aim to channel your creative Capricorn energy into education, communication, neighbourhood connections and/or community projects. It’s a very good time to think global, act local!

LOOKING FOR A JOB IN PENRITH? www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

63

Crossword brought to you by OnePointHealth onepointhealth.com.au | 4732 5188 510/536 High Street, Penrith

ACROSS

DOWN

1. 12 months

1. Yelps

4. Grain storehouse

2. Stunned, taken ...

8. Grass skirt dance

3. Organised

11. Ring-shaped bun

4. Luminescence

13. Manufacturer

5. Prizes

15. Smooth (timber)

6. Deer horn

17. Deed 18. Brown pigment

7. Young Men’s Christian Association (1,1,1,1)

20. Bladder

8. Dress edge

21. Ultimatum, it’s ... never (3,2)

9. Built-up (zone)

24. Tropical vine

12. Aladdin’s magical helper

27. Farmhouse cooker

10. Saintly radiance

30. Loafed

14. Malaysian capital, ...

Lumpur

31. Forwards

16. Noosed rope

33. Dangers

19. Urged (on)

34. Ceremony

22. Headlong dash

35. Actress, ... Collette

23. Greasier

36. Breaks off (affair)

25. Phrases

39. Snuggles (up to)

26. Queasiness

42. Yellow shade

29. Food-lover

44. Film star, ... Jackman

32. Bullfight cheer

45. Speeds

35. Defrosting

46. Becomes ill

37. Ants’ homes

48. Propeller sound

38. Substitute (5-2)

49. The Devil

40. Monstrous giants

50. Intense (desire)

41. Steam-room

52. Register

42. Greek fable writer

54. Chickens

43. Come up

55. Rio Carnival music 56. Inventor’s safeguard

44. Walked through country

57. Gallivants

47. Portable light

60. Panache

51. Nabbed

62. Keep in check (4,2)

52. Receding

65. Female comrade

53. Elaborate

67. Irish author, ...

54. British celebrity chef, ... Blumenthal

28. Flight of geese

Binchy 69. Small amphibians

58. Allow entry to

70. Slave’s master

59. That lady

72. Bash

61. Of hearing

73. Proverb

63. Ellipses

75. German river

64. Actor, Liam ...

77. Gymnastics floor pad

65. Levels

79. Circular coral reef

66. Jugs

81. Health resort

68. Physics particles

82. Rejoinder

71. Not full

84. As a group, en ...

72. Curls

85. Annoy

74. Copies

solution76.

- Medium Tough86. PinkPrevious Loan contracts (complexion)

3

5 88. Harp-like instrument 3 2 4 1 5 678. 7Category 8 9 80. Set down 1 2 6 9 8 83. Slippery fish 4 3 2 9 8 7 6 5 5 4 7 9 8 1 3 2 5 8 6 7 2 4 3 Last week’s 7 6 solution 5 2 3 9 8 7 3 2 1 4 6 5 8 9 4 3 5 7 6

© 2025 Syndicated Puzzles

7

87. UV-protecting 2 1 3 caps 4

(1,1,2) 9 8

r8ts.com

64

2

3

11

15

4

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

20

21

28

22

24

25

19

26

30

27

31

33

32

34

35

36

39

40

41

44

42

37

38

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

55

57

10

18

23

29

9

14

17

58

59

62

67

54

56

60

63

64

68

73

70

74

80

61

66

69

72

79

65

75

71

76

77

81

82

84

78

83

85

86

87

88

Get To Market 2024- Event 3

Sudoku brought to you by Markwater Plumbing markwaterplumbing.com

SUDOKU No. 744

7 5

Easy

Previous solution - Very Hard

4 8 1 6 7 3 2 9 5

6 3 2

6

5 9 3

2 5 8 5 4 9 2 6 6 2 3 4 5 7 4 7 2 1

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

6

the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

Where: Sinclair's - The Log Cabin When: Thursday 2nd May Time: 5:30pm RSVP: Friday 19th March

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© 2025 Syndicated Puzzles

Crossword

1

9 5 3 1 2 4 8 6 7

6 7 2 9 8 5 4 3 1

3 2 9 7 4 8 5 1 6

5 4 8 3 6 1 9 7 2

1 6 7 2 5 9 3 8 4

7 3 4 8 1 2 6 5 9

8 1 5 4 9 6 7 2 3

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2 9 6 5 3 7 1 4 8

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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: ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS ALVIN BRAINY CHARMING CHIPMUNK COMEDY DAVID FAMILY FUN FUNKY TOWN GUITAR LOVING MUSIC NUISANCE SEVILLE SIMON SING SONGS STAR SWEET TALENT THEODORE TRIO TROUBLE WAFFLES WILD Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about State Of Origin in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. In what year did a New South Wales v Queensland match get taken to Long Beach in California?

2. After Queensland dominated the early years of the Origin format, in what year did New South Wales finally record a series victory?

3. How many times has New

South Wales won three consecutive series’?

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5. Who was coach of the Blues when Queensland’s run was finally broken in 2014?

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ANSWERS 1. 1987 2. 1985 3. Twice 4. 2006 5. Laurie Daley 6. Jake Trbojevic

Trivia Quiz

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www.penrithjobs.com.au

Thursday, May 15, 2025 « the western weekender

65

Test Your Brain brought to you by Runnymede Lawyers runnymedelawyers.com.au | 0432 043 112

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 744

Tough

6

Str8ts

1 3 2 3 5

© 2025 Syndicated Puzzles

7

3

1 You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Hexwords

7 8 6 1 2 2 3 2 1 4 3 5

7 5 2

5 3 2 4 3

6

6 5 7 6

5 9 3 4 5

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

6 7

Name the Movie

NOPTLA O Previous solution:

Previous solution: THE PENGUIN FRIEND

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge

HINTS

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

InTeRMedIaTe

douBle IT

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ansWeR

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2. I’m often described as lazy and sarcastic.

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Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 166 - BEGINNER - 35, INTERMEDIATE - 72, ADVANCED - 360.

4. I’m obsessed with lasagna.

5. I live with Jon and Odie.

Last week’s answer: SHERLOCK HOLMES

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 167 - BEGINNER - 121, INTERMEDIATE - 3.5, ADVANCED - 192.

www.30secondchallenge.com

250 2% of IT x25

+6 ÷9 x11 +1 ¼ ÷5 x7 x3 2/3 ÷12 x7 -9 1/3 -7 x3 80% 37½% x4¼ x11/3 10% -45

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

50

TIMes By ITself

1. I’m a tabby cat.

InTeRMedIaTe

87 +13 ÷10 x6 -4 ÷8 x4 +5 ÷3 +4 +6 x4 10% x7 5% 51 ÷3 8 +19 /11 x22/3 +22 40% 5% +39 200% 40

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72

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5 6 9 7 8

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1 2 9 7 6 5 3 4

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2 1 3 3 2 4 1 4 3 2 5 4 5 8 7 6 9 8 7 8 9

7

8 9

No. 744

Previous solution - Medium

the western

Lifesttyle Home&L

Friday, October

Brian To’o and Jarome Luai.

Photo: NRL Images.

F CT PERFE POT ANTS PLA

GHTEN UP YOUR HOME

THE NEW RANGE TO BRI

Mark STEVENSON

You can pick up the latest copy of the Weekender at the following locations each week:

der.com.au

PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS enrith’s greatest ever period of success has delivered the once struggling club a second straight Premiership and confirmed the Panthers rugby league juggernaut.are an unstoppable It is impossible to argue with James Fisher-Harris’ cheeky claim that this is Penrith team of all-time. They are the best an unpreceden delivering ted sustained period of success and have lost just 10 games three seasons, in breaking countless the past along the way. records Coach Ivan Cleary Nathan have also and his co-captain son entered Panthers tality, creating immorall sorts of history in what one of the greatest Premiership defences was game has ever seen. the Ivan is now the only won dual Premiership Penrith coach to have s with the club, just 24 Nathan while at is on club’s greatest ever his way to becoming the player.

But Cleary was overshadowed Final night by on Grand a stunning performanc fullback Dylan e from Edwards, who claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match.

Penrith players and fans partied and hard into long the night after Sunday’s 28-12 demolition of Parramatta.

It was a definitive game of this incredible Penrith era and proved the club’s dominance of over the past three the competition seasons.

It was billed as the the West in history greatest Battle of but kick-off it was obvious almost from the Parramatta were little chance of stopping a switched Penrith. on Eels fans were barely in their seats by time it was obvious the trophy was stayingthe the foot of the Mountains. at Penrith has emerged from an 18-year drought and near title collapse to now more Grand Final have two wins, and show slowing down. no sign of The scenes at Panthers Leagues Club after the game and at a fan Bet Stadium prove day on Monday at Bluethis over the community Penrith team has won .

From Bathurst to cially own the west Blacktown, Penrith offi– the result of hard taking a chance and a playing group work, taken the NRL by that has storm.

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Ivan and Nathan Cleary.

Photo: NRL Images.

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the western weekender » Thursday, May 15, 2025

SPORT

Wanderers fail in Finals showdown NATHAN TAYLOR

W

estern Sydney’s A-League Grand Final dream is officially over – eliminated by Melbourne Victory 2-1 last Saturday night at CommBank Stadium.

Despite heading into the contest on an unbeaten run of 12 games, the Wanderers failed to rise to the occasion when they needed to the most.

Youngster Kasey Bos opened the scoring for the Victory in the 7th minute before the Wanderers equalised through Zac Sapsford in the 23rd.

Melbourne edged in front just before halftime via Zinédine Machach from close range, but that’s where the scores would remain for the rest of the contest.

In front of a lower than expected crowd of 16,399, Western Sydney did their best to claw their way back in the second half, but Melbourne’s stoic defence kept them out every single time.

The 2-1 loss means that the Wanderers haven’t tasted a Finals win since way back on

April 24, 2016 – a truly shocking statistic for one of the A-League’s biggest clubs.

When asked what his side was missing throughout the match, a clearly dejected Alen Stajcic was blunt in his response.

“Do I have to be Captain Obvious? We just needed a goal,” he told reporters after the game.

“There were three or four moments I thought we could have equalised and capitalised and we didn’t.

“We missed that little bit of quality when we needed it. They’re (Victory) are a top team, they’re a good attacking team and we let them get the lead and allowed them to sit back a little bit and absorb pressure.

“I feel like if we equalised, we would have won the game, but it wasn’t to be and we weren’t good enough tonight.”

Finishing the regular season in fourth position with a 13-win, seven draw and six loss record, the Wanderers enjoyed one of their best seasons in many years under Stajcic. However, the former Matildas coach strangely remains unsigned heading into the off-season.

Western Sydney Wanderers coach Alen Stajcic looks on during the A-League Men Elimination Final. Photo: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images.

“No, I haven’t [signed a new contract yet],” Stajcic confirmed.

“There’s a lot to look forward to and a lot to be proud of though. I’m proud of my staff…

I think I’ve got the best staff in the league – probably the best that I’ve ever had. And I have an amazing bunch of football players from 1 through to 25. I couldn’t be any prouder of the way they’ve carried themselves.”

The Wanderers are expected to make several changes in the coming months, with Nicolas Milanovic bound for Aberdeen in the Scottish league, and Juan Mata set to test the open market. Mata, a former EPL star with Manchester United and Chelsea, was a huge drawcard for the Wanderers this season, adding professionalism and experience to their young squad.

Teen earns more Aussie honours NATHAN TAYLOR

F

or many decades, touch football has been one of the most popular sports in the local area. Whether it’s a lunchtime hit out with mates at school, or over at The Kingsway on Monday nights, the game of touch footy is part of the fabric that is Penrith.

One player who started playing touch footy as kid before representing his country in the sport is 18-year-old Cameron Cloey.

The Luddenham resident, who currently studies Sport and Exercise Science at Western Sydney University, first played touch footy on a social basis 10 years ago.

“I was playing junior rugby league at the time and my team ended up entering a social touch football competition at The Kingsway, and I really enjoyed it,” Cloey told the Weekender.

“I was playing both sports for many years before I finally stopped playing junior league when I was in U15s. I wasn’t really succeeding,

I had a few injuries and it clashed with other things, so I decided to stop and pursue touch.”

From that moment on, Cloey’s passion for touch really started to take off and he eventually started making representative teams thanks to the guidance of one of Australia’s best touch football players.

“I was kind of average at first, just doing my job for the team, but during my first year in U16s I got a coach in Nick Good, who I still work with today, and he’s been my biggest mentor,” Cloey admitted.

“Nick helped develop my game a lot. No longer was it just about skill and the physical elements, Nick taught me a lot about the mental and IQ aspect of the Cameron Cloey. game too.”

Cloey used his newfound knowledge to his advantage, with his performances catching the eye of representative selectors.

Not only has Cloey represented his region and state on numerous occasions in recent years, but he’s also reached the pinnacle of the sport – donning the green and gold for his country.

Cloey said making the U18 Boys Australian Emus team in 2023, who competed at the Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup in Brisbane, was a dream come true.

“Playing for Australia was my biggest accomplishment,” he said.

“I was humble and grateful to be chosen among the

thousands of people that play this sport. We went through the tournament undefeated.”

This week, Cloey was back on a plane to Brisbane to once again represent Australia at the Youth Asia Pacific Cup, as the Emus take on New Zealand and the Cook Islands.

Cloey said his long-term goal is to continue to climb the touch footy ranks.

“I want to keep progressing through this Australian system and one day play at the Men’s Opens level,” he said.

“There’s talk touch football might be an Olympic sport at Brisbane in 2032, so I’d really like to be a part of that!”

Cameron Cloey’s PVSF Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Penrith Panthers Leagues Club.

Senior Sports Star of the Month winners take home a cool $700 each for their efforts.

If you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

Forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

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SPORT Henry picked in Matildas squad Penrith FC junior Bryleeh Henry, who currently plays with Melbourne City in the A-League Women’s competition, was named in the Matildas squad yesterday for the upcoming series against Argentina.

The 22-year-old forward has four caps for Australia.

The Matildas will be looking for strong results in the upcoming matches against Argentina in Melbourne and Canberra, despite having a long list of talent unavailable.

“This squad selection rewards players who have performed well, both here in Australia and overseas. It’s important we continue to create a competitive environment while also giving opportunities to those who’ve earned their place,” said coach Tom Sermanni.

YOUNG PANTHERS MAKE CITY SQUADS A number of rising Penrith Panthers stars have been named in NSW City teams to play NSW Country this weekend.

Cordell Arama, Zack Fitzgerald, Jaylin Moran and Charlie Xuereb have all made the Under 16 Boys team.

Hunter Bell is Penrith’s lone representative in the Under 18s Boys team, while Tangata Utoikamanu from Penrith Brothers has made the Men’s Open Age side.

Kayla Henderson and Naioka Tuipulotu, both Panthers players, have made the City Under 19 Girls side.

Matches will be played across the weekend at Brookvale Oval.

Pendragons on fire Local athletes impress at Dragon Boat Championships NATHAN TAYLOR

T

he biggest dragon boating event in a decade was held at the Sydney International Regatta Centre recently when the 2025 Australian Dragon Boat Championships came to town.

More than 2500 athletes from 73 clubs from around Australia competed at the former Olympic course between April 26 to May 1.

The Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, which trains regularly at the Regatta Centre and on the Nepean River, had three levels of participation – the Pendrag-

ons Sport Crew, various NSW representatives and the Dragons Abreast Penrith.

On the opening first two days of action, Dragons Abreast Penrith took to the water in the 200m and 500m events, taking home back-to-back bronze medals.

two gold medals and one silver medal, while To’o and Stein picked up an impressive three gold medals on the day.

Days four, five and six of the Championships saw the Pendragons Sports Crew take to the water, competing in the

NSW State Representatives.

Pendragons Sport Crew.

Dragons Abreast Penrith.

Day three was the State vs State competition, with Pendragons NSW Representatives Madeleine Jacques (Senior A), Jannine To’o, Kim Stein (Senior B), Ray Debono and Jane Howard (Senior C) all competing.

NSW dominated almost every event, taking out the overall competition. Jacques scored

200m, 500m and 2000m events.

The Pendragons Sports Crew were on fire, securing bronze medals in the Senior A Opens 200m and Senior B Women’s 2000m races against the best of the best in the country.

“We are extremely proud of all Pendragons paddlers, their dedication to the training regime leading up to the competition,

and their fantastic, well-earned achievements,” Pendragons Club President, Lucy Richardson said.

“This greatly helps to grow our club in strength, experience and knowledge, setting ourselves up for the start of the next racing season later in 2025.

“We are very excited and proud to represent Penrith in this fantastic sport.”

If you’re keen on giving dragon boating a go, the Pendragons hold Come and Try Days on most Saturday mornings. Email registrar4pdbc@gmail.com.

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WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

St Dominic’s College crowned champs BASKETBALL: Congratulations to St Dominic’s College, who were crowned PDSSSC Senior Basketball Champions. Hard work, skill and determination led the Senior Team to victory last week in the PDSSSC Grand Final against St Greg’s – a true testament to their incredible talent and the unwavering St Dominic’s spirit!

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers men’s and women’s have had a largely disappointing weekend in Round 6 of the NBL1 East competition. Up against the Norths Bears last Saturday, Penrith’s men’s team went down 97-86, while Penrith’s women’s team suffered a 94-77 loss. Ben Kearins with 15 points and Jordan Vasquez with 27 points led the way for their respective teams. Meanwhile, both teams returned to the court on Sunday for their second game of the weekend. Up against the Illawarra Hawks, Penrith men’s team lost 86-81, while Penrith women’s team celebrated a 81-76 victory. Makur Jongkuch with 21 points and Jordan Vasquez with 29 points led the way for their respective teams. Both teams will play the Inner West Bulls this Saturday at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre.

NETBALL: Giants Netball have failed to win back-to-back games, hammered by the Sunshine Coast Lightning 74-56 in Round 5 of the Super Netball. Both teams looked to build momentum and consistency in the Mother’s Day clash after confidence-building performances the previous weekend. The Lightning got the jump early – racing out to a quick lead before stamping their authority on the game in the third quarter. The Giants were never in the fight and instead will aim to bounce back this Sunday afternoon when they play their first local derby of the season against the ladder-leading NSW Swifts at Ken Rosewall Arena.

Greygums Oval, the Rams were in control from start to finish. Mitch Stevens booted six goals for the Rams in the 59-point victory. Penrith will return to Greygums Oval this Saturday afternoon to tackle the Manly Warringah Wolves. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes are on fire, defeating Macquarie University 45-20 in Round 5 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. Penrith will look to continue their winning ways when they play the Inner West Magpies this Saturday morning at Greygums Oval.

St Dominic’s College were crowned PDSSSC Senior Basketball Champions.

NETBALL: Panthers Netball have had a mixed night of results in Round 9 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition. Up against the ERNA Hawks, the Panthers Opens team put up a good performance but ultimately went down 57-49. Meanwhile, the Panthers U23s team continued their unbeaten run with a thrilling 47-46 victory over the Hawks. Panthers will return to Netball Central in Round 10 to battle the South Coast Blaze.

Scottish Thistle and Panther Emily Nicholl.

The Giants have suffered another loss.

NETBALL: Congratulations to Panthers netballer Emily Nicholl, who recently notched up her 50th game for the Scottish Thistles.

Nicholl played the milestone game for the Scottish national team at the PacificAus Sports Netball Series in February. Nicholl was presented a special trophy last week in front of her Panthers teammates to mark the occasion.

NORMAN’S

RUGBY UNION: The Penrith Emus are still chasing their first win of the year, going down to Georges River 41-24 in the latest round of the Meldrum Cup. Fly half Luke Nadurualo crossed the line twice, while Niklaas Soutman and Penieli Vaipulu also got on the scorer’s sheet. The Emus will travel to Lyn Park this Saturday afternoon to face-off with secondplaced Sydney Harbour.

AFL: The Greater Western Sydney Giants have returned to the winner’s circle, pipping Geelong in a nailbiter in Round 9 of the AFL. The Mother’s Day clash at GMHBA Stadium featured a whopping 10 lead changes, with the Giants prevailing 105-101. The Cats couldn’t make the most of their opportunities to snatch victory late in the game, as three wayward shots on goal in the dying minutes broke the hearts of the crowd. The Giants have now won their past five games at GMHBA Stadium by an average of less than eight points, and are undefeated in Geelong since Round 7, 2018.

GWS will return home this Saturday afternoon to battle the Fremantle Dockers at ENGIE Stadium.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have extended their winning streak, too good for the South West Sydney Blues 97-38 in Round 5 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. Played at

SCRAP

TENNIS: It was a busy few days last week for some of the Nepean and Springwood Tennis representative players. Julien Letertre (Sydney West), Dustin McLeod (Mackillop) and Talei Ensor (Sydney West) represented their school region in the NSW PSSA Tennis State Championship, held in Bathurst over four days, last Tuesday to Friday. The trio then travelled to Ulladulla and were joined by fellow Nepean teammates Coco Purcell and Malakhai Tumia to represent Central West in Round 1 of the Regional State League (Southern Conference) with tennis matches held over both Saturday and Sunday. A special shout out to Talei Ensor, who was one of two players over the weekend to be awarded Excellence in Teamwork and Sportsmanship.

Local tennis players have performed well.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 8 of NSWRL Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys beat the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks 30-20, while Penrith Brothers went down to Hills Bulls 12-6. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys narrowly lost to the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks 37-36, while Penrith Brothers suffered a 22-8 loss to the Hills Bulls.

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

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TEEN’S OLYMPIC DREAM At 18, Cameron Cloey has already worn the green and gold of Australia in his beloved sport of touch football. But he’s hoping that could go one step further if the sport is accepted into the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane.

For now, he’s happy rising up the ranks of the popular sport.

Nathan Taylor reports on Page 69 Photo: Melinda Jane.

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