Western Weekender October 2 2025

PANTHERS STILL HUNGRY FOR MORE

TROY DODDS

“ The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated”.

The famous quote from Mark Twain could be attributed to the Penrith Panthers and their incredible Premiership dynasty.

Anyone making the suggestion that this era is over may end up with egg on their face.

A dynasty on pause would be the more appropriate comment.

“What’s over?” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said in the post-match press conference after Sunday’s Preliminary Final loss to Brisbane, when asked about the supposed end of the reign.

“I’d like to think there’s more in us. We’re obviously not going to win it this year but we definitely showed a fair bit to fight back from a poor start.”

Co-captain Nathan Cleary said the previous four Grand Final wins didn’t make the loss to Brisbane any easier, and it was clear the pain from the defeat would drive the side next year.

“It’s just as hollow. It’s not nice,” he said.

“We’ve taken each season on its merits and it’s the same this year.

“When you retire and you can

look back you will think of the four Premierships very fondly but at the moment it’s looking ahead. It’s not in the rear-vision mirror. We came today with a task today and we didn’t do it. It’s not nice.”

Coach Cleary was loathed to call the 2025 season a success despite

coming from last to a Preliminary Final.

“It’s still a good year. Our start really put us under pressure and ultimately that’s part of the season and that wasn’t good enough,” he said.

“Lots of good stuff, but I’m not sure if I’d call it a success.”

AN ACHIEVEMENT TO SAVOUR FOREVER

TROY DODDS

Panthers Chairman Peter Graham says now is the time to sit back and reflect on the incredible success of the club over the last four years.

The loss to Brisbane on Sunday was devastating but Graham believes it gives fans and officials an opportunity to take a breath after an unprecedented run of titles.

“I think it’s time now for us to celebrate the magnificent achievement of four Premierships in a row,” he said.

“It’s a real credit to Ivan and the boys. For myself and the fans, I’m incredibly proud of them.”

Graham said we would always look back with pride on this chapter of success, especially those who have been there through the tough times.

“We’re coming up to 60 years and we’ve won six Premierships, but there were some tough years in there,” he said.

“There’s just been this growing sense of confidence and belief in what Penrith can do.

“I went to my first game back in April 1967 and I was just incredibly proud that our town as it was then and now our city not only had its own first grade rugby league team, but everything that comes with that.

“All of that has grown on the back of the great culture the Panthers have instilled. It’s a culture of belief.”

Graham said he was overwhelmed at the way the side fought back from an early season slump to reach the Finals this year.

“To come from last after Round 12 to be in a Preliminary Final was extraordinary,” he said.

“Ivan’s objective has always been the final four and we achieved that again this year.”

Graham encouraged Penrith fans to keep smiling despite the disappointing finish to the 2025 campaign.

“Let’s be proud of what we’ve achieved,” he said.

“Not only four Premierships in a row but be proud of Ivan and our boys this year and what they’ve done.

“We’ve lost so many players over the last four years and to turn up and put in the type of performance they have over the last half of the season, we just need to be proud of them.”

While the Panthers will not be part of Grand Final Day for the first time since 2019, there is no question it’s a time to reflect on the extraordinary last five years.

Penrith became the first team since the St George Dragons of the 1950s and 1960s to win four straight titles, and set countless records along the way. This year, they became the first team in Premiership history to come from last on the ladder to reach the Finals, and then fall just short of a season decider.

A remarkable run, and it’s clear they’re not finished yet.

Nathan Cleary and Ivan Cleary post-match last Sunday. Photo: NRL Photos.

Panthers Chairman Peter Graham.

season review

A SEASON TO REMEMBER, AND HUNGER

So accustomed to winning have Penrith fans become that exiting at the Preliminary Final stage of the competition almost feels like a failure.

But season 2025 was anything but for the Penrith Panthers, who produced a stoic Premiership defence and fell just one game short of a sixth straight Grand Final appearance.

The fact that Penrith’s run as Premiers will end at 1,463 days is extraordinary. It is a feat we may never see again and this Penrith Panthers team will be remembered as one of the greatest of all-time.

2025 was always going to be different for Penrith.

It was the first time since entering the competition in 1967 that the side would play no games in Penrith, with the famous Penrith Park (Penrith Stadium, BlueBet Stadium – whatever you want to call it) torn down to make way for a new venue that will open in time for the 2027 season.

The Panthers took time to adjust to their new digs at CommBank Stadium, and

fans struggled to make the trek as the year wore on. As much as the side found their feet by the time the end of the year rolled around, it certainly lacked the fortress feeling of Penrith Park – and that certainly had an impact on the team.

An international opening

One of the highlight moments for Penrith this year, and for many of the club’s fans, was opening the season at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many, Sin City dealt the Panthers a winning hand and they got past Cronulla 28-22 to open the competition with a victory.

Despite all the talk about the Panthers having a Premiership hangover and dealing with the losses of Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris, Penrith looked every bit the Gold Class team that their jerseys represented.

And then, the fall... Penrith went into their Round 2 clash with the Roosters as heavy favourites, but went down 38-32. It was the first sign that something wasn’t

despite the early success in Vegas.

Penrith would lose five straight games in this period, struggling to find the form of previous years and their once iron-like defence melting away.

A 40-12 win over the Roosters in Round 7 only masked continuing issues, and the Panthers would lose to Manly the following week.

A bit of Magic, then rock bottom

Penrith appeared to click into gear at Magic Round when they thrashed Brisbane 32-8 in one of the wins of the season, but a 30-all draw with the Cowboys the following week again showed Penrith’s defensive deficiencies.

It was on May 24, 2025 when Penrith hit rock bottom – a 25-6 loss to lowly Newcastle in Bathurst. It was the side’s worst performance of the season and as it turned out, the catalyst for what would become an incredible revival.

Penrith sat last on the ladder at this point and it was around this time coach Ivan Cleary squatted away questions about missing the Finals by saying the ladder didn’t matter

until July or August. Turns out he was dead right.

A stunning revival

Starting with a win over Parramatta in Round 13, Penrith would win their next nine matches in one of the most remarkable NRL turnarounds ever, storming into the top eight and suddenly emerging as a Premiership chance yet again. While they would lose three of their last four regular season games, two were in Golden Point to top four sides and the other was a defeat at the hands of Canterbury when Ivan Cleary opted to rest the entire squad. That in itself was one of the most incredible moments of the year –

Casey McLean had a breakout year for Penrith. Photo: NRL Photos.

Isaiah Papali’i and Nathan Cleary both had strong seasons. Photo: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

STILL BURNING FOR MORE SUCCESS

Cleary giving up on the top four, and declaring the best chance his side had of winning the competition was to rest everyone for an assault on the Finals.

A Finals campaign to remember

Penrith finished in seventh spot and would now face another shot at history – could they become the first side in the NRL era to win the competition from outside the top four?

First up was a date with the Warriors in Auckland, the Panthers winning 24-8.

Then Penrith produced a stunning first half to set up a 46-26 thrashing of Canterbury at Accor Stadium, storming into a Preliminary Final and a clash with the Broncos.

Penrith led the Preliminary Final 14-0 at half-time but the weight of such an enormous season clearly took its toll in the most important 40 minutes of the year. The Panthers fell away, Brisbane stormed home – and that’s that.

Set up for the future

Penrith may not lift the trophy this Sunday at Accor Stadium but the 2025 season has set Penrith up for an enormous 2026.

The club will farewell Brad Schneider and Daine Laurie, but the core group remains in tact – the first time Cleary has not lost a key player in the off-season during this run of success.

The likes of Casey McLean will only get better – while Nathan Cleary will hit the sweet spot of this career. Imagine that.

Season 2025 was one to remember – a roller coaster ride, highlighted by an incredible fightback from last.

Mitch Kenny’s leadership went to another level this season. Photo: NRL Photos.

THE STORY OF SEASON 2025

ROUND 1

Penrith open the 2025 season in Las Vegas, getting past Cronulla 28-22. It’s the perfect start to Penrith’s Premiership defence, on one of the grandest stages in international sport.

ROUND 2 ROUND 3 ROUND 4

Penrith are short-priced favourites to beat the Roosters, but go down 38-32 in a see-sawing match at CommBank Stadium. It’s considered one of the upsets of the season.

Nathan Cleary leaves the field under HIA protocols, leaving Penrith without their inspirational number seven for most of the match against Melbourne. The Storm win 30-24.

The Rabbitohs prove too good for Penrith at Accor Stadium, winning 28-18 as the Panthers slump to a third straight loss and serious questions emerge about their Premiership defence.

ROUND 5 ROUND 6 ROUND 7 ROUND 8

Penrith’s home away from home, CommBank Stadium, continues to prove problematic for the Panthers as they fall 22-18 to North Queensland to record a fourth straight loss.

Penrith’s season hits a major low as they drop another game, this time to the Dolphins 30-12 at Suncorp Stadium. The Dolphins lead 18-6 at the break and never really look like losing.

Penrith bounce back into form with a thumping 40-12 defeat of the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, breathing some hope back into their Premiership campaign after a string of losses.

ROUND 9 ROUND 10 ROUND 12

Penrith put on a show with one of the best performances at Magic Round, leaving Brisbane rattled in the wake of a 32-8 thrashing. The win puts fears of missing the top eight to rest, for now.

Penrith appear to have done enough to beat the Cowboys, but two late tries forces the game to Golden Point. The sides can’t be split, and a 30-all draw is the end result in Townsville.

Without their Origin stars, Penrith’s season hits a new low as they go down 25-6 to eventual wooden spooners Newcastle. It leaves Penrith on the bottom of the table after 12 rounds.

Penrith’s return to the winner’s circle is short-lived after they go down 26-10 to a struggling Manly side at CommBank Stadium; with real doubts now about even making the Finals.

ROUND 13

Penrith produce a much-needed win over arch rivals Parramatta at CommBank Stadium. It’s far from convincing but the 18-10 victory is enough to breathe life back into the campaign.

at CommBank

It

as one of the best games of the season.

ways continue,

at CommBank Stadium as the side finally settles in to their new digs. The Panthers beat the Rabbitohs 30-10 as the top eight becomes a reality again.

Penrith demolish the Wests Tigers 36-2. The Tigers get first points through a penalty goal but the Panthers score three tries

the

the

makes the extraordinary decision to rest the entire first grade team against Canterbury to prepare for the Finals. The Bulldogs win 28-4 at Accor

Penrith continue to shrug off their early season form slump, demolishing Parramatta 32-10 at CommBank Stadium. More than 22,000 fans turn out to watch the western Sydney showdown.

Penrith’s winning

again

in the lead-up to half-time to build a convincing lead.

It was

controversial game that sparked trainer-gate, but it’ll also be remembered for an epic finish that saw Penrith beat Gold Coast 30-26 in a Golden Point classic at Cbus Super Stadium.

Penrith’s winning run continues, this time thrashing Newcastle 48-12 at McDonald Jones Stadium. The Knights are no match for an in-form Penrith, who do little wrong on the road to victory.

Penrith is left devastated after Harry Grant scores an incredible try in Golden Point extra time to give Melbourne a 22-18 victory over Penrith at CommBank Stadium.

Dubbed

‘Miracle in Mudgee’, Kaeo Weekes scores a length of the field try for Canberra in Golden Point to give the Raiders a 20-16 victory over Penrith in front of 9,925 country fans.

Penrith

Stadium.

The Panthers warm up for the Finals with a 40-20 victory over St George-Illawarra in Wollongong. Paul Alamoti bags a double in the contest, while Nathan Cleary scores 16 individual points.

player of the year

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.

LAST WEEK’S POINTS: PANTHERS VS

CLEARY TAKES THE CROWN

Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary has won the Western Weekender Player of the Year competition.

Cleary more than doubled his nearest teammate in the annual competition to be a clear runaway winner.

A maximum of 12 points is up for grabs to a player each week with Western Weekender Editor Troy Dodds, Deputy Editor Nathan Taylor, columnist Peter Lang and former player Luke Priddis all voting on a 3, 2, 1 system for each match.

Cleary finished with 123 points.

Paul Alamoti’s sensational season was reflected on the final table, finishing a clear second with 51 points.

“There is no question that Nathan Cleary is a deserved winner of our Player of the

Nathan Cleary has been named the year’s best player.

Year,” said Weekender Editor Troy Dodds.

“He dominated at club level this season, producing several match-winning moments and confirming his

status as the best player in the game.”

Last year’s winner, Isaah Yeo, polled 48 points in this year’s competition to finish third.

extra time awards

WE NAME YEAR’S BEST OF THE BEST

Extra Time Player of the Year:

Nathan Cleary

Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary adds yet another individual accolade to his growing trophy cabinet with this award. While the Panthers fell agonisingly short of a sixth straight Grand Final appearance, Cleary

was phenomenal once again this season and was the clear winner of the Weekender’s Player of the Year –polling 123 points. In his 22 games for Penrith this season, Cleary was involved in plenty of big moments but perhaps two stand out above the rest. In Round 17 against the Bulldogs, Cleary scored the match winning try after charging down a Matt Burton kick,

while in Round 22, the ‘Ice Man’ slotted over an incredible two-point field goal in the dying stages to save Penrith’s bacon against the Titans. Cleary scored six tries for the Panthers this season, assisted in 17, and converted 79 goals for a season tally of 184 points. Last month he also took home yet another Merv Cartwright Medal for Panthers Player of the Year.

2024 winner: Isaah Yeo

Extra Time Rookie of the Year: Luron Patea

The former Penrith Emus star made a name for himself this season, making a massive impact off Ivan Cleary’s interchange bench. The 20-year-old forward played a handful of games for Penrith in 2024, but it was this season that fans really started to get excited about what this talented youngster has to offer. Patea played 13 games in the NRL this year, including the season opener in Las Vegas. An injury late in the season cruelled him of more appearances in the top grade, but Patea did more than enough to prove he’ll be in the mix for selection again next year.

2025 also saw Patea score his first NRL try and collect the prestigious Ben Alexander Rookie of the Year award back in September.

2024 winner: Liam Henry

Extra Time Win of the Year: v Broncos, Magic Round

Staring down the barrel of another early season hiding, Penrith produced one of their best and most surprising wins of the season against eventual Grand Finalists the Brisbane Broncos at Magic Round. No one tipped the struggling Panthers to win that afternoon at Suncorp Stadium, instead they produced the upset of the round, winning 32-8. With a host of big names missing including Mitch Kenny, Brian To’o and Scott Sorensen, the Panthers piled on five tries to one to breathe some life back into their season and give travelling fans something to celebrate.

2024 winner: v Eels, Round 23

Extra Time Moment of the Year: Panthers open season in Las Vegas

Thousands of Panthers fans travelled more than 17 hours from Sydney to the United States to watch the defending Premiers open the 2025 NRL season in Viva Las Vegas. Sin City didn’t know what it was in for when rugby league returned to The Strip for the second straight year. The Panthers certainly made the most of the historic occasion, debuting stunning Black & Gold jerseys for the contest against the Cronulla Sharks at Allegiant Stadium. Penrith and

Cronulla put on the best show in town that night, with the Premiers getting the job done in a thriller 28-22. Daine Laurie, who started on the bench, scored a double in the game, including the match-winner. 2024 winner: Farewell Penrith Park

Extra Time Headline Event of the Year: From the wooden spoon to the Finals

Following a shock 25-6 defeat to the Knights in Bathurst back in Round 12, the almighty Penrith Panthers were sitting dead last on the NRL ladder. Seven months on from a fourth straight title, no-one could’ve predicted such a fall from grace. However, like all champions do they continued to fight with a never say die attitude. Following the loss to Newcastle, the Panthers would turn things around and go on a mesmerizing nine-game winning streak to return to the top four. While late season losses saw the side drop to seventh, the Panthers were back in the Finals and ready to shake up the competition. Penrith would make it all the way to the Preliminary Finals following strong wins over the Warriors and Bulldogs before bowing out in a thriller against Brisbane. 2024 winner: Panthers win four straight Premierships

Nathan Cleary is the Extra Time Player of the Year. Photo: NRL Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

the premierships: 2021

CHAMPIONS FROM AFAR: PANTHERS

Afour-peat must start with the first and it’s intriguing to remember that Penrith’s incredible Premiership run started in – of all places – Queensland.

The NRL relocated all of its teams to the sunshine state mid-way through the 2021 season after COVID-19 wreaked havoc through New South Wales, forcing the state into its second lockdown.

Penrith powered their way through the remainder of the season, quickly grabbing Premiership favouritism before a stunning surprise in the first week of the Finals changed everything.

The Panthers faced the Rabbitohs in the Qualifying Final at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, and all was going to plan early when Stephen Crichton scored the opening try.

But Souths worked their way into the game, crossing through Cody Walker in the first half and Jaxson Paulo in the second to set up a 16-10 win – on a night where five penalty goals were kicked between the two sides.

The loss put Penrith into dangerous

Fans screaming for the Panthers at the 2021 Grand Final. Photo: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

BRING JOY TO LOCKED DOWN PENRITH

territory – with some experts label ling them ‘done’ – as they started a mission to go the ‘long way around’ and try to make the Grand Final from the other side of the draw.

It was off to BB Print Stadium in Mackay for a Semi Final showdown with Parramatta – and showdown is putting it lightly. In one of the most tightly contested Finals you could imagine, Penrith emerged 8-6 winners after a scoreless second half. The Panthers’ defensive performance was something special, and would ultimately be part of what defined the side’s run to the Premiership.

A Preliminary Final clash with now competition favourites Melbourne was next – and again it was a tightly contested affair, that had fans back in Penrith on the edge of their seats. Crichton bagged an early try thanks to a sneaky kick from Nathan Cleary to the right wing, but it wouldn’t be until Brian To’o scored in the 42nd minute that the scoreboard atten dant would be troubled again.

Ryan Papenhuyzen finally scored for Melbourne in the 62nd minute, with the final 18 minutes becoming a warrior-like defensive performance from the Panthers to hold on for a 10-6 win, and qualify for the 2021 Grand Final.

from full-time that would have levelled the scores.

It was a Grand Final for the ages.

After a bruising opening period, Penrith were first to score when Matt Burton found space in the 16th minute.

The Rabbitohs hit back to level the scores soon after when Cody Walker produced some of his trademark solo brilliance just four minutes later.

The Panthers took an 8-6 lead into the break when Cleary kicked a penalty goal in the 32nd minute. Souths came out strong in the second half and were unlucky not to find the tryline, but did manage to level the scores through a penalty goal just four minutes into the period.

The Rabbitohs looked like they were about to create something down their left side when the game took a dramatic twist – Crichton intercepting a wayward Walker pass to race into Grand Final immortality. Alex Johnston scored with just six minutes to go but Reynolds couldn’t land the conversion, leaving Penrith 14-12 up.

It was on to the decider – the

Panthers and Rabbitohs in the first NRL Grand Final to be played at Suncorp Stadium in history. A Crichton intercept 14 minutes

from full-time will forever be remembered as the moment that decided the Grand Final and secured Penrith’s third Premiership.

The Panthers won 14-12 but not before a late scare with South Sydney halfback Adam Reynolds missing a sideline conversion four minutes

There were incredible scenes of emotion at full-time as the Panthers celebrated a hard fought victory over a newfound arch rival.

Nathan Cleary was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal.

The Panthers celebrate the 2021 Premiership at Suncorp Stadium. Photo: NRL Photos.

the premierships: 2022

PANTHERS OWN THE WEST WITH AN

It was the Grand Final Penrith and Parramatta fans had been both dreaming of and dreading for more than 50 years – the ultimate Battle of the West.

With back-to-back premierships on the line, the Panthers were firm favourites heading into their third consecutive decider.

After losing on the same ground two years earlier to the Storm and winning up in Bris bane the year prior, Penrith were determined to finally give their home fans the end-of-year celebration they thoroughly deserved.

In front of a sold-out crowd at Accor Stadium, the match played out eerily similar to the 2020 decider, but with the roles very much reversed. This time it was Penrith with the experience, and it showed in an opening half onslaught that saw them lead 18-0 at half-time.

The game was over well before that.

By the time Brian To’o scored his first try, seven minutes after Stephen Crichton opened up the scoring, it was obvious nobody was beating the Panthers.

Penrith had been the dominant team in the NRL for three years, but they saved perhaps their best performance of this period for the Grand Final.

With an 86 per cent completion rate, they starved the Eels of the ball and powered over the top of them like it was men against boys.

Much like the Storm did in 2020, Penrith put

Back-to-back: The Panthers wrap up the 2022 Grand Final. Photo: NRL Photos.

NATHAN TAYLOR

UNFORGETTABLE THRASHING OF EELS

their foot on the accelerator in the opening stages of the second half, putting any question of an Eels revival to bed.

To’o’s 45th minute try – his second of the evening – came after a Waqa Blake mistake close to his own line. At the end of the ensuing set, Penrith produced a classy left-side move that ended with To’o crashing over out wide.

With time and hope slipping away, Penrith’s 22-0 lead quickly became an unassailable 28-0 when Charlie Staines – in his first Grand Final

– found a hole in Parramatta’s defence and cut through to score.

If there was any disappointment for Penrith, it would come in the final five minutes when Clint Gutherson and Jake Arthur bagged tries.

For Penrith, the full-time siren cemented back-to-back titles for the first time in the club’s history.

In the end it wasn’t the Grand Final for the ages many fans were hoping for. The Battle of the West became a one-sided affair that proved

just who is the most dominant in this chapter of the long rivalry between the two clubs.

Dylan Edwards was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal for his scintillating performance, while skipper Nathan Cleary accepted the trophy post-match, congratulating Parramatta on their season.

“We look forward to continuing those battles,” he said.

“To the fans… thank you so much. We’re so blessed to represent Penrith and can’t wait to

party with you all.”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said it was an emotional victory, particularly given the changes the club was to face heading into the next season.

“It’s hard to put it into words,” he said.

“This team won’t stay together. It was such a great opportunity and such an amazing season, I just wanted it to go well on the biggest night.

“It’s been an unbelievable season for our club.”

Fans celebrate the next morning.

The Panthers celebrate after the Grand Final. Photo: NRL Photos.

the premierships: 2023

CLEARY SILENCES A STATE IN A GRAND

TROY DODDS

It was a Grand Final for the ages, capped off with a moment rivalling Kyle Feldt’s last minute try for the Cowboys in 2015, or Darren Albert’s miracle four-pointer in 1997.

The roar around Accor Stadium when Nathan Cleary crossed in the 76th minute to win the game for Penrith was deafening.

With the try and subsequent conversion, Cleary had not only brought the Panthers back from the dead to win the season decider but had put the icing on one of the most memorable 20-minute periods of his career.

There was only 18 minutes left on the clock when Cleary decided to take the game by both hands and deliver a performance that will be talked about for decades to come.

A smart play to set up a try for Moses Leota, a 40/20, a clever decision to force a penalty from a Brisbane drop-out and his own personal fourpointer were the highlights of his heroics.

Earlier, the Grand Final appeared gone.

With the game precariously placed at 8-6 to Penrith early in the second half, Ezra Mam stepped up in an unstoppable 10-minute period to put Brisbane into a Premiership-winning position.

Mam scored three straight tries – carving up the Penrith defence with blistering speed to give the Broncos a 24-8 lead. It should have been enough.

actually happened. It’s very disappointing,” Brisbane coach Kevin Walters said.

Somehow the Broncos went from a commanding lead with Mam’s name on the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal to a brutal collapse.

Nobody could have seen Penrith’s comeback on the horizon.

Not when inspirational co-captain Isaah Yeo was forced from the field for a Head Injury Assessment and Jarome Luai’s shoulder finally gave way in the midst of Mam’s hat-trick. Scott Sorensen, too, was forced from the field after a head knock.

The momentum just shouldn’t have turned, and yet it did.

“I must say I was a little worried half-way through that second half,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said post-match.

“One thing I’d never doubt is these boys’ ability to keep fighting. There was still a long time to go and that was the important part. If they had have jumped to 24-8 with 15 to go I don’t think we would have come back.”

It had been a pulsating opening half to the Grand Final but nobody could have imagined what would unfold in the second 40 minutes.

Brisbane had talked up their big game expe rience all week despite it coming from other arenas like Origin, but nerves were evident in the opening period. They put themselves under pressure with a raft of errors, but Penrith

The opening try came in the 17th minute when a short drop-out somehow bounced into the hands of Mitch Kenny who scored his first try of the season. With Cleary getting attention in back play, Stephen Crichton grabbed the

started to get into the game more in the period closing in on half-time.

When Thomas Flegler barged his way over in the 38th minute, it felt like a reward for Brisbane’s entire season more than

FINAL COMEBACK FOR THE AGES

anything else – they had toiled and toiled, and finally got what they needed.

Ivan Cleary admitted post-game, the 8-0 lead should have been bigger.

“The first half, I reckon the way the season has been going… we probably would have been up by more than 8-0,” he said.

“But they just weren’t going away. When they got the ball back they were striking, they really backed themselves from all over the field and were a constant threat which took a lot of gas out of our team.

“We knew we had a battle at half-time. I don’t really know what to say after that.”

In the end it was the 29th minute penalty goal that proved the difference. Both teams scored four tries, and landed four conversions.

Dig deeper though and it is likely Penrith’s 97 per cent completion rate – freakish in any game, let alone a Grand Final – that ensured they were still within a chance of winning and sending the more than 81,000 fans at Accor Stadium into a state of disbelief.

Brisbane made 11 errors to Penrith’s one, likely having a impact on their fatigue late in the game.

For Penrith, the victory ensured their place in rugby league folklore – a third straight Premiership, the first team in the NRL era to achieve such a feat.

It was the perfect farewell for Stephen Crichton, Spencer Leniu and Jack Cogger.

Meanwhile, for the Broncos it was a long off-season of pondering what could have been.

And for both clubs, a new rivalry – one that in the past barely caused a ripple – was formed.

Fans in celebration mode after Penrith’s incredible Grand Final win in 2023. Photo: NRL Photos.

the premierships: 2024

PINK PANTHERS MAKE IT FOUR WITH

TROY DODDS

The last time a team won four consecutive titles, Penrith weren’t even in the first grade competition yet.

And while it may be true that the incredible 11 titles in a row won by St George from 1956 to 1966 will never be repeated, this Penrith side sits next to them in rugby league immortality.

The Panthers won their fourth straight Grand Final on the first Sunday of October in 2024, downing Melbourne 14-6 at Accor Stadium

A brutal opening stanza

There was no way in the world that Penrith were going to get blown away in the opening 20 minutes like they did against the same team in 2020.

And Melbourne knew that would be Penrith’s response.

It sparked an intense opening quarter to the game, with no points scored and both sides testing each other out in defence.

The Panthers went straight through the front door, opting to take advan tage of Nelson Asofa-Solomona’s absence and the side’s advantage in the forwards.

Premiership run, they conceded the first try. Harry Grant barged over in the 22nd minute to open up the game.

The Panthers gained the ascendency quickly however, dominating the period towards half-time with Sunia Turuva and Liam Martin scoring to give Penrith a 10-6 lead at the break.

Martin’s try was a beauty – a non-Penrith play that even Ivan Cleary conceded his team hadn’t executed before.

Alamoti owns the moment

In all this talk of a four-peat, Paul Alamoti was aiming for his first Premiership ring.

And there is something of an irony in his spectacular 60th minute try, which proved to be among the game’s key moments.

Alamoti may not have been in first grade had Taylan May been able to keep out of trouble. But as May likely pondered missed opportunities and what could have been, Alamoti dove for the try-line in incredible fashion to plant the ball down and give Penrith a two-score lead. Not long before, the Storm had come excruciatingly close to scoring a try of their own, with Jack Howarth held up over the line.

GRITTY WIN

As the clock ticked, Penrith stood tallest in a battle of attrition. Liam Martin and Isaah Yeo, on tired legs, produced inspiring runs to keep the momentum with the Panthers.

The Storm had their chances late, but the Panthers had done enough.

Melbourne is likely tired of hearing about how their 2020 Premiership win sparked this period of success for Penrith and the game’s first four-peat in more than half a century.

But it can’t be denied that it’s true, and the Panthers were determined to gain retribution for that October night five years ago.

“It feels like it validates everything we’ve done and what we’ve tried to become,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said.

Storm coach Craig Bellamy was full of praise for Penrith.

“They’re relentless in what they plan to do,” he said.

“We got a little bit off the beaten track tonight and we paid the price for it.

“We just didn’t get into our plan for long enough periods. At the end of the day it’s not an excuse, they were too good for

us tonight. We probably weren’t prepared to go as far as they did with our game plan.”

Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary said he couldn’t separate the four titles he’s now guided his beloved Panthers to.

“The first time was a bit more relief. This one is just mind-blowing that we’ve been able to do this,” he said.

“The cool thing is all of them have been so different.

“That was extremely hard, just trying to catch your breath.

“I was just so proud of us as a group.

“Our defence probably wasn’t where we wanted it to be during the year but in the big games we turned up.”

And what would he have said if you told him back in 2021 that the victory over Souths in that Grand Final was just the beginning?

“I would have said you were mad to be honest,” he said.

“There was definitely belief there but it has exceeded all dreams and expectations.

“The beauty of it has been staying present through the lot, just enjoying the journey that we’re on. It’s been an incredible ride.”

The Panthers celebrate a record-breaking fourth title. Photo: NRL Photos.

Melissa McIntosh with Kat and Cait from Fernwood Penrith.

Join us on Saturday, 11 October at St Marys Memorial Hall for the

ReST YLE

Clothes Swap Event

Kids’ clothing swap (for ages 3 to 12 years old)

Check-in 10am – 10:30am Swap opens 10:30am – 11:15am

Adults’ clothing swap

Check-in 11:30am – 12:15pm

Stylist presentation 12:15pm – 12:30pm

Swap opens 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Please note that this is a ticketed event. For full event information, and to secure your tickets visit,

Cost: $10 each swap penrith.city/restyleandswap

Murderer leaves court in back of ambulance

Aman has gone from being convicted of murder to being whisked away in an ambulance with a bloodied left arm in the space of 45 minutes.

Paul Jason Sultana was found guilty in the NSW Supreme Court last Friday of the January 2023 strangling murder of Penrith mother-of-two Dayna Isaac.

But rather than leaving in a prison truck, he was rushed out of court on a stretcher tended by paramedics.

Sultana stabbed himself in the left arm with a sharp implement after hearing Justice Peter Garling’s verdict in the King Street courthouse.

The 35-year-old was tended to by sheriff’s officers and court staff while an ambulance was called.

He sobbed loudly and had a bloodied left arm as he was wheeled out of court by paramedics.

The incident played out in front of Isaac’s family, including her father Garry English.

He told reporters outside court that Sultana’s guilty verdict was a good outcome for his “princess”.

Isaac’s murder followed a brief relationship between the two, the court was told.

The relationship was “unsettled” and involved a jealous Sultana being unable to accept Isaac did not want a long-term relationship, Justice Garling said.

English outlined conversations he had with Sultana to the court, including one in which he said his daughter was not interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with her eventual killer.

“I said to him ‘Paul, Dayna likes you as a friend and nothing more’,” the victim’s father said in his statement.

“He got in my face and told me that I have to tell Dayna that he was good for her.”

The day before the murder – and against Isaac’s wishes – Sultana

moved some of his belongings into her apartment in Penrith, where the murder occurred.

The next day, a woman heard an altercation between the couple, an incident she described in a message as “the neighbour beating the shit out of his missus”.

The neighbour said she saw Sultana leave the flat with a green Woolworths bag after the altercation.

“It struck me really strange that somebody was walking away, just so

casually and calmly after what I just heard,” she told the judge-only trial.

Police discovered Isaac’s body in the flat several hours later and a forensic analysis determined she had been strangled to death.

The trial also heard evidence from Sultana’s mother, Janet Tsiliris, who was called by her son in the aftermath of the murder.

The killer later picked up his mother in Isaac’s car and took her to the crime scene.

He repeatedly told her “it’s bad”,

Tsiliris’s police statement said.

“I walked in the front door and saw blood in the entry way near the lounge room on the floor,” Sultana’s mother told investigators.

After seeing Isaac with blood on her face, Tsiliris ran out of the unit yelling “I’m gone, I’m out of here”.

After his mother left the flat, Sultana drove Isaac’s car into deserted bushland and set it on fire.

Throughout the trial, the killer claimed he had been “deeply asleep” on the couch in the flat at the time of

the murder and a third party must have been responsible.

But Justice Garling dismissed his story, finding there was no unidentified culprit who carried out the murder.

When asked why he didn’t ring the police and why he burned the car if he was not responsible, Sultana claimed he acted out of panic and fear of being falsely blamed for her death.

Sultana will be sentenced at a later date.

Convicted murderer Paul Jason Sultana leaves court on an ambulance stretcher. Photo: AAP.

TOM WARK, AAP

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Tough loss offers a chance to reflect and press reset

The Penrith Panthers went into the Finals Series this year with the mantra of ‘Never Before’, riding the wave of their incredible fightback from last to reach the top eight, and their quest to win a fifth title – this time from outside the top four.

It wasn’t to be. The collective heartbreak on Sunday afternoon could be heard right across Penrith.

It was a tough loss to take.

But as the sun came up on Monday morning, the opportunity to put a line under the last four years emerged.

And a slight re-jig from ‘Never Before’ to ‘Never Again’.

There is every chance we will never see a team win four straight titles again in our lifetime.

Let that sink in for a moment and you’ll realise just how special these last four years have been.

And what else can you say to Ivan Cleary, his players and everyone associated with the club other than: Thank You.

Man had not walked on the moon the last time a team had won four straight titles.

What Penrith has produced over the last four years will have a long-lasting impact on the club and the wider community.

It has created a generation of Penrith fans that will ride the wave of good and bad seasons for decades to come, and pass on that passion to their kids.

The sleeping giant that was rugby league in this part of Sydney, jolted awake only occasionally since 1967, has now been awoken for good.

For those of us who have supported this team for decades, the last four years feel somewhat surreal.

It wasn’t that long ago we were shivering through cold winters at Penrith Stadium watching the team be consistently beaten, delivering only the occasional highlight.

Now this team has gone from easybeats to one of the powerhouses of Australian sport.

INDEX

It is only now that the run of straight titles is over that we can sit back and reflect.

We will talk about the time Penrith won four titles until the day we die.

We’ll talk about the memories created, forever etched into our minds.

We will remember Stephen Crichton’s famous intercept in 2021 that broke South Sydney’s heart and earned redemption for Penrith for a Grand Final defeat the previous year.

We’ll remember how it brought a city together at the end of the COVID lockdowns, and how rugby league that year kept us sane.

make a Preliminary Final is unheard of, and we should be so proud of what this side has achieved this year.

There is a strange relief of sorts that this chapter is closed.

The chapter, not the book.

There will be more success to come in the coming years, no doubt.

And the heartbreak of going out to Brisbane last Sunday will likely be the driving factor in giving the Panthers back their hunger in 2026.

Ivan Cleary has hinted several times that there’s a bigger story to tell around Penrith’s slump at the start of the season.

Cleary keeps his cards reasonably close to his chest so we may never understand the entirety of what happened there, but it will no doubt be a driving factor in the pre-season.

“There is a strange relief of sorts that this chapter is closed”

We will remember 2022 so fondly, not only because it was one of the most dominant seasons any rugby league club has produced, but it of course culminated in a victory over our arch rivals in Parramatta.

We will never forget Nathan Cleary’s 20 minutes of brilliance in the 2023 Grand Final, as he wrestled the Clive Churchill Medal out of Ezra Mam’s grasp.

2024? A tough, gritty Grand Final won on the back of hard work, guts and determination.

And as much as 2025 will not be remembered for Premiership success, we’ll never forget the ride the year gave us.

To come from last place on the ladder to

As fans we have become accustomed to winning over the past five years and that’s what makes not being there on Grand Final day so much harder to take.

But once the dust settles we will all realise just how special this period was.

As a kid who cheered from the family hill and chased autographs after the game, I could never have imagined in my lifetime I would see such success.

For so many of us rugby league is a way of life.

A constant no matter what challenges there may be in life.

But the ride it takes us on can sometimes have more downs than ups.

For the last four years Ivan Cleary and his players have take us into the stratosphere. We will be forever grateful.

Outsiders called Penrith arrogant and cocky, as they desperately clawed at ways to bring down the best, as we often do in this country.

But those of us in this little pocket of Sydney knew the real truth.

A special time, never to be forgotten. Thank you, Penrith Panthers.

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Woman dies in Kingswood fire

Awoman has tragically died following a unit fire in Kingswood last weekend.

About 5.45pm on Sunday, September 28, emergency services were called to a unit on Richmond Road, Kingswood, following reports of a fire.

A man has been charged over causing the damage that disrupted trains at Penrith last Friday morning.

Police were called to Penrith Train Station about 5.50am on Friday, September 26 after reports of a person in the rail corridor.

A man had allegedly gone onto the tracks past the platform, damaging rail equipment and attempting to steal copper wiring.

Fire and Rescue NSW worked to extinguish the blaze; however, the unit sustained extensive damage.

A 50-year-old woman was pulled unresponsive from the unit. She was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Nepean Hospital in a critical condition; however, she could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at hospital.

Police assisted in evacuating other residents from the unit block.

Two police officers were taken to Nepean Hospital for smoke inhalation and have since been released.

A crime scene was established and officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command with assistance from the State Crime

Command’s Homicide and Arson Squad have commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident and how the fire started.

As inquiries continue anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police will prepare a report for the information of the Coroner.

The damage caused signals to fail and stopped trains between Penrith and St Marys. It caused major issues for the morning peak with buses called in to replace trains.

Following inquiries by Police Transport Command North West, a 51-year-old man was arrested about 9.30pm on Friday.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with ‘impair electronic communications to or from computer’, ‘dishonestly for gain destroy or damage property’, and ‘enter or leave station etc not at designated entry or exit’.

rural settingoffering opportunitiesfor childrentointeract with farm animals and actively participate in caring forthe environment and other living beings

Fire crews at the scene of the fire in Kingswood. Photo: TNV.

The man is arrested by police.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Penrith: Charges following retail theft

About 3.45pm on Friday, September 26, two males and a female entered a large hardware store on Castlereagh Road, Penrith.

The group have selected numerous electrical equipment and tools and left the store without paying for the items.

At 9pm, the same day, police have attended an address in Lethbridge Park where three persons were arrested and most of the stolen property was retrieved.

A 27-year-old woman was charged with shoplifting. She was bail refused and will appear in Mt Druitt Local Court later this month.

The women’s partner, a 37-year-old male was charged with shoplifting. He was bail refused and will appear in Mt Druitt Local Court this week.

A 24-year-old male from Busby was charged with shoplifting and will appear in Mt Druitt Local Court next week.

Penrith: Charges after man’s tirade at Westfield

At 8.20pm on Friday, September 26, a male entered a large supermarket within Westfield Penrith.

He was recognised by staff as a recidivist shoplifter and Westfield Security was contacted. The male was highly aggressive whilst interfering with other shoppers within the store.

He was aggressive towards police, refused to leave and was constantly using offensive language.

The 33-year-old Penrith man was arrested and charged with refusing to comply with

COMPILED BY TROY DODDS

direction and offensive language. He was conditionally bailed to appear at Penrith Local Court on November 11.

Penrith: Woman refused bail after drugs charges

At 3.20pm on Thursday, September 25 police observed a female sitting in a vehicle with its engine running within a Penrith car park.

The female was spoken to where she provided false details.

Drugs were located within her handbag, 17 grams of methamphetamines and 7.5gms heroin divided into separate bags.

Stolen clothing and cosmetic, a magnet capable of disabling security tags and two large knives were also located inside the vehicle.

The 31-year-old Oxley Park female was arrested and charged with a range of offences.

She was bail refused to appear at Penrith Local Court on November 21.

Cambridge Gardens: Man survives horror crash

Police are investigating a single vehicle crash in Cambridge Gardens.

About 1.25am on Wednesday, October 1, officers from Nepean Police Area Command were on routine patrol travelling along Dunheved Road when they came across a blue Ford Falcon XR6 split in two after colliding with a tree and damaging three parked cars.

Officers attended to the driver and sole occupant – a 39-year-old man – until the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics. He was taken to hospital.

EXPLAINER: BECOMING A FRANCHISEE

Becoming a franchisee involves entering into a legal agreement with an established business (the franchisor) that allows the franchisee to operate a business using the franchisor’s brand, systems, and intellectual property (IP). The franchisee does not own the brand or the underlying business systems, but rather obtains a license to use them for a specified period.

Typically, the payment structure for a franchise arrangement includes:

• Initial franchise fee: A one-time payment made at the start of the agreement for the right to use the brand and systems.

• Ongoing royalties: Regular payments (often monthly) calculated as a percentage of the franchisee’s sales or revenue.

• Marketing or advertising fees: Additional regular payments to contribute to the franchisor’s marketing efforts, which benefit the entire franchise network.

Rights and obligations

Licence to operate: The franchisee receives a licence to use the franchisor’s trademarks, business systems, and proprietary methods for a set term (e.g., five or 10 years).

No ownership of IP or business assets: The franchisee does not acquire ownership of the brand, business systems, or intellectual property. These remain the property of the franchisor.

Return of assets upon expiry: At the end of the franchise term, the franchisee is typically required to cease using the franchisor’s

brand and systems. All materials, customer lists, databases, and other proprietary information must be returned to the franchisor. No right to retain clients or data: The franchisee generally cannot keep the clients, customer lists, or any business data acquired during the franchise period, as these are considered assets of the franchisor.

Obligation to follow prescribed procedures

As a franchisee, there is usually a strict obligation to operate the business in accordance with the franchisor’s operations manual and prescribed procedures. This requirement is fundamental to the franchise model, as it ensures consistency and quality across all franchise locations protecting the reputation and value of the brand.

Unlike an independent business owner, a franchisee does not have the freedom to make significant changes to the way the business is run. The franchisee must adhere to the franchisor’s systems, processes, and standards at all times. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in breaches of the franchise agreement, which may lead to penalties or even termination of the franchise.

If you are thinking about becoming a franchisee you need expert legal advice about things like what it is going to cost you in the beginning, what your costs will be during the term of the agreement, what happens when the agreement comes to an end and the manner in which you are allowed to run the business day-today.

STRAIGHT TO WORK: MAL LANYON FORMALLY APPOINTED NSW POLICE COMMISSIONER

Mal Lanyon has formally started work as the 24th Commissioner of the NSW Police Force.

Lanyon has served in the NSW Police Force for nearly four decades, including senior command positions across field operations and State Crime Command.

He has also played key leadership roles in major disaster response and recovery operations, most recently as Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

“Mal has been chosen to be the 24th Commissioner of the NSW Police Force because of his exceptional leadership skills,” said NSW

Premier Chris Minns.

“... [he] has dedicated his career to serving the people of NSW and leading from the front. I am confident he has the skills, experience and vision to guide the NSW Police Force into its next chapter.

“This is one of the most important leadership roles in our state.

Deputy Commissioner Lanyon will be focused on tackling organised crime, strengthening safety in our regions, and supporting victims of domestic and family violence.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said she was confident in the appointment.

“The NSW Police Force is the largest police force in Australia, and the importance of the role of Commissioner cannot be overstated. Mal is ready to hit the ground running and take our force into a new, bright era,” she said.

“We conducted a rigorous recruitment process, and I want to thank all applicants – we have an incredibly high calibre of talent within the NSW Police.

“I also want to congratulate outgoing Commissioner Karen Webb on 38 years of self-sacrifice. She leaves an extraordinary legacy – one which will be carried forward by Mal.”

Lanyon said it was an honour to be chosen for the role.

“I look forward to working with the Premier, the Minister, my colleagues across the NSW Police Force, and with communities right across our state,” he said.

“Over my years in policing and emergency management, I’ve seen what makes this force strong, the unwavering dedication of officers, the commitment to upholding public safety, and a tradition of putting the service of others before themselves.

“As Commissioner, my focus will be clear: tackling organised crime,

strengthening community safety in our regions, supporting victims of domestic and family violence, and ensuring public confidence in policing.”

GO KARTING AT LUDDENHAM RACEWAY Fast. Fun. Unforgettable.

Experience the thrill of high speed go karting on our outdoor track. Perfect for adrenaline seekers aged 14 and over.

Whether it’s a fun activity for the school holidays, weekend challenge or a corporate showdown, Luddenham Raceway delivers the ultimate racing experience.

Book now at luddenhamraceway.com

Call 9834 2366 | Visit us at 823-849 Luddenham Rd, Luddenham

Make Christmas Real

at Luddenham Christmas Tree Farm

This year, skip the plastic and choose a real Christmas tree grown right here in Luddenham.

From 22 November, stroll through the farm, nd your perfect tree and cut it down yourself, or let our team lend a hand.

Guaranteed freshness: you pick the tree, we cut it (or you can if you want the full Christmas experience), and you carr y it home. It doesn’t get fresher than that!

In October, book a Mini Christmas Photo Shoot and capture the magic early.

We’re pet friendly too, so bring the whole family and create memories to treasure.

Located at 821 Luddenham Road, Luddenham. For bookings and details visit: www.luddenhamchristmastreefarm.com or call 9000 1650

An out of this world deal

Apartnership between the State Government and leading Australian space technology business Space Machines Company is lifting off, establishing Bradfield near the new airport as a manufacturing hub for critical space infrastructure like satellites that will help safeguard space for Australia and our allies.

The Rapid Australian Production & Integration for Distributed Space (RAPID) agreement, will bring advanced space technology manufacturing to western Sydney – delivering jobs and promoting the development and adoption of innovative technologies.

Space Machines Company will commence high-value manufacturing projects at the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) this year, with the aim to develop hyperscale production capability to produce satellites which are used to repair other satellites in long term orbit.

It’s expected the AMRF will support Space Machines Company to initially produce more than 30 units annually, with production expected to scale up to hundreds of units per year by 2030.

“This landmark agreement will help build vital skills and a capable workforce in western Sydney, creating jobs, accelerating innovation and delivering real outcomes for local people,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully.

“By linking global industry partners with the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility, we are equipping NSW with the training, equipment and expertise needed to produce

world-leading technologies. This partnership marks a transformative step in making Australia’s newest city a leading centre for high-tech manufacturing, workforce development, and sustainable economic growth.”

NEPEAN DISTRICT ARCHAEOLOGY

OPEN DAY

Saturday 11 October, 10am to 3pm

Old Council Building, Station Street, Penrith Between Henry Street and Penrith Station. Opposite Westfield’s Station Street Entrance

Minister for Industry and Trade, Anoulack Chanthivong, said the new agreement was a direct example of how scaling and retaining innovative businesses strengthens NSW’s economy, driving job creation, building

resilience and ensuring the state is globally competitive.

“While early-stage businesses play an important role in our innovation ecosystem, NSW must retain these businesses as they grow, maximising their direct and spillover benefits,” he said.

“Once they achieve scale, businesses like Space Machines Company can help deliver significant economic returns and substantial export income, attract world-leading talent, and contribute to a robust local innovation ecosystem.

“This is all part of our plan to boost innovative manufacturing in NSW, set out in our NSW Industry Policy and NSW Innovation Blueprint 2035.”

Chief Executive Officer of Space Machines Company, Rajat Kulshrestha, said western Sydney is the ideal location to establish Australia’s sovereign space manufacturing capability given the extraordinary growth in the area.

“Space production at scale is essential for national security in the modern era. This partnership enables us to build from tens of spacecraft annually and scale toward producing hundreds by 2030, giving Australia and allied nations the rapid response capabilities essential for protecting our critical space infrastructure,” he said.

“As space becomes increasingly contested, having sovereign manufacturing capability ensures we can both defend our interests and protect the space-based systems that underpin our modern way of life.”

Bradfield Development Authority CEO Ken Morrison and Chief Executive Officer of Space Machines Company, Rajat Kulshrestha.

Contact Us News

Administration

Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

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

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

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at

Services 4732 7777

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

Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

Monday 13 October – 7pm (Policy Review Committee Meeting)

Monday 27 October – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Couldn’t make it to Mini Makers in Penrith? Don’t miss out on the last Mini Makers for the year this October school holidays on Wednesday 8 October at Lang Park in St Marys. From 10am to 1pm there will be free activities for kids to enjoy!

Come down and get your face painted, enjoy the arts and crafts, spend some time outside with active games and live music. No bookings required and the activities are free!

Find out more at

● Don’t miss out on a magical time at our Cinema in the Park!

On Saturday 11 October from 6-9pm, we’re screening ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ for free at City Park, Penrith. Make a night out and bring some blankets or lawn chairs – we’re magical activities for the little ones.

Find out more at

● Join us for our second community clothes swap event for 2025, on Saturday 11 October at St Marys Memorial Hall. We’ll be kicking things off with a children’s clothing swap for parents/guardians of children aged 3 to 12 years at 10 am, followed by adults’ clothing swap (all sizes and genders welcome) from 11.30 am.

Community clothing swaps and exchanges are an exciting and sustainable way to address Australia’s growing textile waste problem while showcasing the joy of second-hand clothing!

$10 per event ticket (refundable*)

*Ticket fees will be refunded to those who ‘check-in’ at the event.

See T&Cs on the booking page for more details.

Places are limited, visit for more information and to secure your ticket.

Funded by the NSW Environment Protection Authority, supported by Penrith City Council.

● Central Park project. Once complete, the central park project will see the seamless connection of Coachmans Park and Kokoda Park to create a new civic green heart for St Marys with:

• an entertainment area

• fenced children’s playspace with water play

• lawn area

• amenities building

• water features

• trees and gardens

• pathways

• seating

The successful tender for construction of the project will be awarded in early 2026.

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

Public Notice

Local Government Act 1993

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

SEE FOUNDATION INC Disability Support

All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or , within 28 days of the date of this notice. Please contact Ruma McCracken on 4732 7777 or

Development Application

Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property.

• Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd DA25/0689

Proposed construction of a Medium Voltage (MV) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and associated infrastructure

In accordance with Section 2.12 and Section 4.5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the consent authority for this development application is the the Sydney Western City Planning Panel (SWCPP).

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary 19 October 2025.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, submission is to include Council’s reference number DA25/0689.

Please contact Jodie Schembri on 4732 7449.

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

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

Lots 5 & 6 DP 627888, 1–3 Coowarra Drive, St Clair Five years

Joke Week of the

cupboard prize

ovie ‘T he Travellers’ is a poignant, funny and heartwarming family story from acclaimed filmmaker Bruce Beresford. Stephen Seary, a charismatic and successful stage designer, returns to his small hometown in Australia to say goodbye to his dying mother. What was to be a quick trip descends into chaos, drama, and at times downright funny moments as Stephen navigates family responsibilities, a difficult relationship with his father, old friends and past

lovers, all while trying to return to Europe for a major opera contract. The film, which opens in cinemas on October 9, is directed by Bruce Beresford and stars Luke Bracey, Bryan Brown and Susie Porter. Visit thetravellersmovie.com.au. The Weekender has 10 double passes to ‘The Travellers’ to give away. For your chance to win one,

send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Travellers’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, October 9 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

paceway winners lucky

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

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: 0030, 0401, 1340.

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 famous Blue Tree is located along the Great River Walk in Penrith. It serves as a symbol for the Blue Tree Project’s national mental health awareness initiative.

Facebook community groups. They’re getting worse and worse. One day, we’ll attribute them to the further breakdown of society in general.

The awesome Penrith businesses who retained their ads in our Grand Final feature this week, a brilliant show of support for the Panthers and Penrith’s local paper.

Slow road to upgrade

Progress for Dunheved Road, but Lindsay MP says project is taking too long

Penrith City Council has appointed a contractor to deliver the preliminary works for the long-awaited Dunheved Road upgrade.

But Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh says it’s taken too long for this step be reached – especially given Federal Labor promised to “fast-track” the upgrade at the 2022 election.

“The Dunheved Road upgrade will nearly be three years behind schedule when early works begin later this year thanks to the Albanese Labor Government,” McIntosh said this week.

“I fought tirelessly to fund the upgrade of Dunheved Road and I have continued to relentlessly advocate for the full project to be completed as scheduled.

“The communities of Cambridge Gardens, Werrington, Cambridge Park, Werrington County and Werrington Downs should not have to wait any longer for this important upgrade to take place.”

Council says the early works phase will take between six and nine months, to prepare for the

main construction phase. It has appointed Georgiou Group for these works.

“Dunheved Road is vital to our transport network and its role in connecting the Penrith City

Centre with our emerging growth centres will only become more important in the future,” Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said.

Preliminary works include completion of the final civic design, securing utility approvals and

investigations, site investigations for contamination, geotechnical investigations, detailed traffic management planning, at-home noise assessment investigations for nearby properties and sewer and drainage work at Orleton Place.

The main construction contract is expected to be awarded after the preliminary works are complete, with construction planned to begin in mid-2026.

McIntosh said the community has a right to be angry at how long the project is taking.

“Let’s not forget that Infrastructure Minister Catherine King promised our community before the 2022 election that Labor would fast-track the project. This has not happened, and community members are rightly angry at the Government for stalling the much-needed Dunheved Road upgrade,” she said.

“The contract that the Government and Council are celebrating is only for early works which will begin some time before Christmas. The major works contracts are to be awarded after this and begin in mid-2026. How can this new timeline be trusted when the schedule has been changed on multiple occasions?”

The Dunheved Road upgrade was first announced by McIntosh when the Coalition was in government in 2020. The initial $63.5 million commitment was later increased to $127 million.

Council has appointed an

Walking with purpose

Fundraiser for little-known syndrome attracts more than 100 people, raises $30k

Almost $30,000 was raised at the recent Williams Syndrome Walkathon, raising awareness and funds for the rare genetic condition.

The event was organised by a team of passionate people at Wiggles and Giggles daycare.

“We had well over 100 people participating in the walk,” said Operations Manager at Wiggles and Giggles, Charmaine Coates.

“Some of those families included children that had Williams syndrome, some were families from our pre-schools, and some were families from the local community. It was great to see the whole community come together to raise awareness about Williams syndrome.”

The event is a vital day on the pre-school’s calendar because the owners of Wiggles and Giggles have a 16-year-old daughter with the genetic condition – Sana Baghla.

“Not many people know about Williams syndrome,” the teenager told the Weekender

“We started the walkathon three years ago to raise awareness, and it

Book now

Desperado - The Eagles Show

Wednesday 8 Oc tober, 10am

UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS

TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swif t Thurs 2 Oct, 7pm

Pseudo Echo Friday 3 October, 7:30pm

Desperado: The Eagles Show Wednesday 8 October, 10am

Legally Blonde - The Musical 18 Oc tober - 2nd November

Boom Crash Opera Saturday 8 November, 7:30pm

Mirusia ‘Celebration’ Tour Sunday 9 November, 2pm

The Swinging Six ties Show Wednesday 12 November, 10am

Hans: Young, Fun and 21 Friday 14 November, 7:30pm

keeps getting bigger! At the Williams Syndrome Walkathon this year, there were so many fun activities, including a barbecue, Paw Patrol characters, henna designs, face painting, and there was a massive raffle prize.”

One of the special additions to this year’s event was opening the walk with drumming.

“It was a magical start to the walkathon. We cut the ribbon, and the drummers were drumming as we were walking along,” explained Poonam Nagpal, Sana’s mother and the owner of Wiggles and Giggles.

“People with Williams syndrome have a very strong connection to music. The rare genetic disorder has its challenges, but at the same time, it creates an affinity towards music where they can make tunes and play musical instruments without any training.

“Sana does learn piano, but she also has a couple of different types of drums that she plays at home. It’s mind-blowing seeing her playing the drums in a way we had never imagined.”

Sana, her family, and the team at Wiggles and Giggles are already thinking about next year’s event.

Milestone for Penrith business

This October marks 35 years of Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre keeping the region moving.

Robert Standen and Allan Bourke first opened the clinic on the corner of Lethbridge Street and Castlereagh Street in 1990 and moved to their current location at 119-121 Lethbridge Street a few years later when the business grew.

“We’ve always been very patient-focused and we’re very passionate about helping people achieve their goals,” said physiotherapist Emily Standen as she explained why the clinic stands out amongst the rest.

“I think at some stage we have covered most of the sporting

teams within Penrith. We’ve covered Penrith Netball, Penrith Cricket Club, and we covered the rowing and the slalom kayaking in the 2000 Olympics.

“One of our founding partners, Robert, was the Panthers physiotherapist from 1998 to 2003.”

Over the years, the clinic has gained a reputation for its extensive offerings.

“There is no other physiotherapy practice this big that offers all our specialties,” Standen explained.

“We specialise in vestibular physiotherapy, pelvic health physiotherapy, lymphedema, we have a large pediatric team, we have very highly qualified sports physiotherapists, and we cover Nepean Private Hospital. I really don’t think there’s anywhere

LEURA VILLAGEFAIR

else in Penrith that does all of that.”

The clinic also plays a role in mentoring physiotherapists of the future.

“We have helped out in the tutoring of medical students over the years, and it’s been good to see that a lot of the physiotherapists we’ve mentored are now running their own businesses within Penrith, the Blue Mountains, and the broader western Sydney area,” Standen stated.

“We take on quite a few physiotherapy students from Western Sydney University, UTS and Macquarie.”

Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre has no plans to slow down when it comes to ensuring the people of Penrith move well for another 35 years and beyond.

ALLY HALL

Emily Standen and Tom Roncone. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Outdoor movie at City Park

Penrith City Council has announced it will screen a free outdoor movie at City Park later this month.

‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ will be showing on Saturday, October 11 from 6pm to 9pm.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said he was thrilled Council was hosting the free event again as it allowed families to come together, relax and experience City Park.

“We had a wonderful time hosting Cinema in the Park at City Park last year, and we’re eager to bring it back with another family-friendly film this year,” Carney said.

Keep an eye on Council’s Facebook page for updates regarding the event.

Admission is free.

NEW TRAINS FOR BLUE MOUNTAINS

The long wait is nearly over for train passengers in the Blue Mountains, with new intercity Mariyung trains to begin serving the line within a fortnight.

The Mariyung is the first new intercity train to hit the tracks in two decades and is expected to improve reliability for passengers on the Blue Mountains Line while also providing a smoother ride for passengers at western Sydney centres like Penrith.

“These trains include dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, accessible toilets, and easier boarding – so people of all abilities in Penrith can travel with confidence and independence,” said Penrith State MP Karen McKeown.

Expo brings DV services together

ALLY HALL

Leaving domestic violence is no easy feat, but members of the Nepean Domestic Violence Network are taking steps to ensure it becomes a seamless experience for local survivors.

Part of that effort is the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV) Expo, which was held in St Marys on September 25.

“The concept of this expo was born from a single member of our Nepean Domestic Violence Network who identified a need within the sector to bring us together and increase capacity and referral pathways,” said Kim Scanlon, a member of the Nepean Domestic Violence Network and the working group that organised the expo.

“We have 40 organisations here, which is an incredible gathering.”

This is the second annual DFSV Expo, following the successful inaugural event in 2024.

“We know that there are high levels of domestic violence occurring in all areas of Australia, but we are concerned about the levels in the Penrith area,” Scanlon stated.

“Eight million Australians have experienced domestic and family violence since the age of 15. In 2024 in the Penrith area,

BOSCAR figures state there were 1,899 reported cases of DSFV – and we know there are many more unreported cases.”

Unfortunately, people leaving that situation have very high needs and can’t always access support.

“What we wanted from this expo was to get everybody who can support a family that is leaving domestic violence together in one space to align referral pathways and

networks, so we all know who they are,” Scanlon explained.

“We have housing here, police, DV services, family work services, counselling services, Centrelink, and more.

“When someone leaves violence, they need all that wrap-around support, and we want to enhance those connections and make sure we’re not missing anything with people who are experiencing domestic violence.”

Kim, Carol, Karen McKeown, Vicki, Himani, Penny, Kirsty, and Erin. Photo: Ally Hall.

Terry hits a high note

Nepean Rowing Club to celebrate 35 years of jazz in Penrith this weekend

ALLY HALL

Nepean Rowing Club in Emu Plains is more than a scenic spot for a coffee and a place for rowers to jump in a scull – it was also the birthplace of jazz in Penrith.

“35 years ago, we started jazz here,” said musician and teacher Terry Rae.

“This was the first club in the Penrith area to do live jazz every week.”

Back in the day, Rae was one of the best percussionists in Australia, and he would play as part of a trio at the Nepean Rowing Club.

“This trio would come down here and do Friday nights, playing jazz while they did the meat raffles. Then on a Sunday afternoon, we would play on the balcony out here,” Rae recounted.

“In 1988, I brought my big band from the city out here, and we really expanded jazz in Penrith.

“When I brought the big band out – Terry Rae’s Big Swing Band – you couldn’t move in here, it was so busy. It was amazing.”

Over the years, Rae played alongside legends including Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra.

“My life started with jazz 73 years ago,” Rae stated.

“I’ve been playing jazz for 73 years, and

I’ve backed some of the best artists in the country and overseas.

“I lived in America for two years and traveled for a show called Ice Capades. I joined Ice Capades back in ’63 because I just finished doing a tour with Judy Garland.”

The experienced musician hopes to see more people appreciate the jazz genre.

“I’m 89 – I’m no spring chicken. I enjoy what I’m doing and it’s a shame to see that things aren’t going the way they used to,” Rae said.

“There used to be so many people that would come in and listen to the music of yesteryear.”

With that in mind, Rae will be hosting a celebration on October 5 to mark 35 years of jazz at Nepean Rowing Club.

“I’ll open the show by singing an old song, and then I’ll introduce everybody,” Rae explained.

“We’ve got Marilyn Mendez, who is one of the best jazz singers in Australia, and I’ve got a couple of other singers including a young girl named Ashley Long, who will be singing three songs with me.”

The celebration of music, memories, and swingin’ good times will go from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday – the 35th anniversary of Nepean Rowing Club’s first jazz concert.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Be prepared, get emergency ready

The safety, health and wellbeing of residents is always a priority for Penrith City Council. We do a lot behind the scenes and engage with our community to build more resilience in, and for, this City.

You can upload important documents, identify key contacts, access resources, and create a checklist. We hope that we never need to use it but it gives peace of mind. Thank you to everyone who has done this and to those getting ready for another summer.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting above average rainfall and higher than average temperatures until January.

With the weather warming up, Council is reminding everyone to get prepared for any emergency or disaster. Our City has seen firsthand the impact of extreme heat, bushfires and floods, and we are committed to ensuring that households can act with confidence and stay safe.

We recently partnered with the Australian Red Cross and other Sydney councils for the annual EmergencyRedi campaign, to raise awareness, and help communities understand risks, connect with each other, and make important plans.

The Get Prepared app is a fantastic, free resource that lets you plan for unexpected emergencies. I have found this app useful for my family and have told friends about it, too.

Another great resource is Council’s Penrith Emergency Dashboard. It lists current emergencies, roadwork, and fire and weather warnings. There’s also a digital map and links to agency contacts. You can access it online at disasterdashboard. penrith.city.

Council cares about our community.

With enough challenges in day-to-day life, we want to help residents be informed and mitigate any risks, shocks or stresses. Go to www.penrith.city/emergencyready.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

your business attract new customers and build awareness. Visit https://corporate.westernweekender. com.au to learn more.

Terry Rae.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Get fit in pink at huge gym event

Penrith is set to turn pink on Saturday, October 18 as Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, teams up with Fern wood Penrith to host FernyRox – a women’s fitness challenge like no other, raising funds for the McGrath Foundation.

Inspired by the global Hyrox fitness phenomenon, FernyRox will see women aged 14+ take on a circuit of running and workout stations in teams of two, three or four. With the focus on fun, community, and women supporting women, the event is designed for all fitness levels – from first-timers to seasoned gym-goers.

Castlereagh Hall reopens to public

Castlereagh Hall has reopened to the community following the completion of essential repair and restoration work.

“This is about women coming together – mums, aunties, daughters, cousins, girlfriends – to challenge themselves, have a laugh, and raise money for a cause that touches so many families in our community,”

McIntosh said. Participants are encouraged to get creative with their outfits

– the pinker, the better. Tutus, wigs, socks, shirts and head-totoe pink are all part of the fun,

with prizes on offer for the best dressed. A raffle with fantastic prizes donated from local Penrith businesses will also run throughout the day, with tickets available for just $5 each or three

The event starts at 8am on Saturday, October 18 at Fernwood Fitness Penrith. It’s $25, with registrations open at www.trybooking. com/DFQQA.

Every rep, every laugh and every raffle ticket sold will help the McGrath Foundation place specialist breast care nurses, with five currently at Nepean Hospital, to provide vital support to families experiencing breast cancer.

“Pink Up Penrith is all about showing community spirit and standing with those impacted by breast cancer. FernyRox is a fun way to do just that – and I can’t wait to see Penrith turn pink,” McIntosh said.

Built in 1895, Castlereagh Hall is a popular and scenic venue in Penrith for weddings, community events and private functions. The repair and restoration works have been carefully carried out to ensure the Hall’s heritage character has been preserved.

“I’m delighted to see it reopened and available for the community to enjoy once again,” said Mayor Todd Carney.

Castlereagh Hall offers modern features including a large deck with views across the valley and mountains, air conditioning, a semi-industrial kitchen and updated bathroom facilities.

BREASTSCREEN NSW IN ST MARYS

Free breast screening for women will be offered at St Marys Leagues Club from October 6 to October 24.

The mobile screening van will be stationed in the outdoor car park of the club for three weeks.

Associate Professor Nirmala Pathmanathan, Director of BreastScreen NSW Sydney West service, said a regular breast screen is one of the most important things women can do for their health.

“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy,” she said.

Melissa McIntosh with Kat and Cait from Fernwood Penrith.

Michelle’s a big winner, and so is Nepean Hospital

ALLY HALL

TAG Real Estate opened their office in St Marys almost two years ago now and are making strides to contribute to their local community.

Recently, the property experts ran a community giveaway, granting a lucky person the opportunity to win $5,000 to then donate $1,000 of their winnings to Nepean Hospital.

The Weekender attended the cheque handover at the hospital on Tuesday.

“When they called to say that I’d won, I thought it was a scam call,” said giveaway winner Michelle Latham.

The English teacher said the win was welcome with Christmas coming up.

“It’s such an expensive time of year, so to have a win like this makes me feel so appreciative and grateful,” Latham stated.

The $1,000 donated to the hospital will be going towards the education fund for diabetes services.

“We’re very appreciative of this, and one of our focuses right now is on having

more education out in the community,” said Rossana Van Meeuwen, the Nurse Unit Manager for Diabetes Services at Nepean Hospital.

“This is a big help in terms of having more events possible for us. We really want to have our footprints out in the community.

“I’m happy to see this kind of community sponsorship, and I’m happy that the TAG Real Estate team is within our community and helping us in this way.”

General Manager for Nepean Hospital Brad Ceely also expressed appreciation.

“It’s fantastic and will give us the ability to do some initiatives around diabetes care, but also around health

and promotion when it comes to reducing the incidence of diabetes in our community,” Ceely stated.

“We’ve got a high incidence of diabetes and that’s related to high incidence of obesity as well. So now it’s about how we engage with our community to reduce that incidence through healthy lifestyles, healthy eating, and exercise.”

TAG’s Selling Principal Vedant Agrawal explained this isn’t the business’ first time running a community initiative, but it has been the most rewarding.

“It’s been a solid campaign, and the community has been actively involved,” he said.

SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Don’t dial it in

The councillors complaining about not being able to attend council meetings remotely is one of the most ridiculous things I’ve heard (Weekender September 25). They are required to attend on average one ordinary meeting a month and potentially one policy review committee meeting every second month if they are involved. Part of their responsibility as a councillor is to “represent the views of the community while making decisions in their interests and demonstrate conduct that the community expects of its elected representatives....”. As a community member my expectation of a councillor is that they commit to their responsibilities, including attending meetings, and don’t just “fit the meetings” into their busy schedules. The known disadvantages of “employees” working from home including it being harder to foster “company” culture and team cohesion, increased distractions, reduced communication ability and spontaneous information exchange, all seem like vital requirements for such important meetings. It would also incur extra expense to the rate payer whereby those councillors who attend the meetings remotely, while may not claim the travel allowance, are allowed to claim an individual meal allowance for the meeting, which is being catered for as “refreshments’ as a whole for the meeting. It seems like the councillors have a lot more to be concerned about than their own inconvenience of having to attend a meeting onsite.

LYNDA, JORDAN SPRINGS

Praise for MP

We moved to Penrith in 1969, since then we

have had seven State members for Penrith. Most have worked hard and given good service to the people of Penrith, some better than others. Our current member Karen McKeown has served the people of Penrith as a Councillor, Mayor and current State Member. I can’t remember a more accessible or responsive local MP. Her availability through her office, mobile offices and Penrith markets have given the residents the opportunity to talk to her face to face about issues and problems they may have. This is second to none. Now that’s a good local member. Karen continue the good work.

ALAN HEALEY, VIA EMAIL

Message to the Panthers

I have been a big fan of the Panthers for many, many years and I am an oldie now. I have watched through the highs and lows and I just want to tell every one of you, how very much admired you all are and thank you for the excitement you always bring to us. This could have gone either way so it is just a hitch and time for you all to enjoy the break that you all need. You are great examples to all the children in Penrith and surrounding areas for your determination, resilience and all the good you do for the community and you will come back next year with lots of determination and pride on the Panther trail and spreading sunshine to all Penrith fans, me especially. I don’t do the cards anymore Ivan as my computer is too old but you are on the top of my list for congratulations and the biggest thank you ever.

MARGIE BROUWER, PENRITH

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

Hailey Nelson, Michelle Latham, and Vedant Agrawal.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Historic cane a part of early Penrith days

ALLY HALL

Michael Long first entered Penrith Municipal Council in 1876 and would go on to be elected as Mayor nine times between the years of 1886 to 1906.

The reason we’re sharing this with you is because an artefact has recently found its way to the Nepean District Historical Society (NDHS), donated by Michael Long’s great-granddaughter.

“This is the stick in question,” said NDHS President Phillip Braham as he unwrapped the historic mayoral cane.

“It’s a really significant artefact as far as Penrith is concerned.”

The dark wooden cane was embellished with an engraved silver plaque under the handle.

“The council engineer got a piece of the timber that was used for the original viaduct – the first bit of infrastructure the Penrith Council made in the 1860s from Nepean River up to Penrith Station for the steam trains,” Braham explained.

“He got a piece of the timber, and he made this and presented it. They all presented it to Michael Long in the Council Chambers, and it was a lovely ceremony.”

The donation of this piece of history came as a surprise.

“I was at the Arms of

since 1904, and that we might like it,” Braham said as he recounted his first meeting with Michael Long’s great-granddaughter.

“She said she wanted it to go somewhere it will be taken care of.

“As soon as I saw it and read about it, I realised what a significant artefact it was and immediately thought we need to give it to the Council.

Michael Long is probably the longest serving Mayor in Penrith’s history.”

Australia Inn Museum and a couple came over and said they have something that’s been in their family

Holiday activities a hit at Penrith Homemaker Centre

Sschool holidays have proven a hit at Penrith Homemaker Centre, with good crowds turning out to their activations this week.

Kangaroo Beach activities continue through until Sunday, October 5 with shows, craft activations, meet and greet zones, merchandise carts and so much more.

And there’s also plenty of education happening amongst the fun as well.

Summer Safe Squad sessions have been happening throughout the week, with the final sessions scheduled for today (Thursday, October 2).

By delivering these hands-on, engaging sessions, the Summer Safe Squad will empower families with the knowledge and confidence to enjoy Australia’s waterways safely.

The campaign will also highlight that water safety isn’t just for the coast – the key lessons apply equally to rivers, dams, pools, and other inland areas such as Penrith Beach.

“Kangaroo Beach is a valuable resource, helping both parents and children to learn about water safety in an engaging and age-ap-

propriate way. The beach is a place for everyone, so it’s essential that water safety education is accessible and reaching as many families as possible,” said Adam Weir, CEO, Surf Life Saving Australia.

Book for the final Summer Safe Squad sessions online at https://events.humanitix.com/summer-safesquad-kangaroo-beach.

Holiday activities continue at the Homemaker Centre until Sunday.

Council will display the cane with photos and information about Michael Long later this year.

“We’re going to have the cane for a little while because we’re going to use

it to promote our open day on October 26 at the Arms of Australia Inn Museum,” Braham stated.

“We’ll have market stalls, lots of displays, amusement rides, face painting – it’s a

ourselves and encourage people to come and see the museum.”

PROPOSED FOR THE PENRITH HV BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS) CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT ABORIGINAL STAKEHOLDER REGISTRATION

Ausconnex proposes to construct and operate a grid-scale, high voltage (HV) Battery Energy Storage System located 50km west of the Sydney CBD at the Penrith Transmission Substation, in the Penrith City Council Local Government Area. Construction would be within on hardstand within the footprint of the existing Guildford West transmission substation and would include battery storage capacity up to 100 megawatts and associated infrastructure.

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants Pty Ltd has been commissioned by Ausconnex to conduct a cultural heritage assessment for the Penrith HV Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project.

As per the Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents 2010, we are implementing a program of Aboriginal stakeholder consultation as an integral part of this assessment.

We invite Aboriginal people and organisations who wish to participate in the program, and who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the cultural signi ficance of objects and places in the project area, to register an interest in the project.

Please forward expressions of interest to:

The Secretary

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants

4/71 Leichhardt Street

Kingston ACT 2604

The closing date for registration is 16th October 2025

big open day to promote

The Museum is located at 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

Phillip Braham with Michael Long’s cane. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Former Penrith Mayor Michael Long’s cane.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Kids enjoying the school holiday activities at Penrith Homemaker Centre. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Δ Popular shop to close: A popular men’s clothing store in St Clair will close its doors this month. Mick T’s has confirmed it will cease operating on October 16. “After 13 and a half wonderful years, we’ve made the tough decision not to renew our lease and will be closing our doors,” a statement said. “We want to sincerely thank every single customer who has supported us over the years. Your loyalty, smiles and kind words have meant the world.”

Δ K-pop Happy Meal: McDonald’s has announced the launch of the TinyTAN Happy Meal in Australia. The miniature cartoon avatars inspired by the members of the K-pop

Each toy will have its own QR code that fans can use to access an interactive mini game featuring the members of BTS. Each TinyTAN Happy Meal includes a choice of three or six-piece Chicken McNuggets, Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Snack Wrap, paired with Apple Slices or Small Fries and a Small Drink. The TinyTAN Happy Meal promo will last until October 21, while stocks last.

Δ New treats: Nescafe has released their new Iced Latte Gelato Inspired range of instant coffees. We’ve spotted Cooke Dough and Hazelnut Praline and out and about so far.

Δ Dessert bar opens: Chunk Dessert Bar has opened in Penrith, featuring a range of delicious treats. You’ll find them at 148 Station

Δ Tea time: Spring is the season of fresh starts, but let’s be honest, most of us are not about to take up sunrise yoga or swap biscuits for kale. Sometimes a reset is as simple as putting the kettle on. “For many, tea is more than a drink, it’s a ritual,” says Will Dixon, Yorkshire Tea Expert Tea Buyer. “It’s calming, grounding, and even contains L-theanine, which helps promote relaxation.” Will has tasted teas in some of the best gardens around the world to make sure every box of Yorkshire Tea delivers that full-flavoured, satisfying cup we all rely on. Put simply, a proper brew is one of the easiest ways to reset your day this spring. With a wide range of blends, Yorkshire Tea makes it easy to pause and unwind, offering choices such as: Yorkshire Tea Original, Yorkshire Tea Gold and Yorkshire Tea Strong. The range is now available in all leading supermarkets.

Δ Got some Source? Tell us about new menu items, store openings and more: news@ westernweekender.com.au.

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Street in Penrith, near Gella Frenda and Percy Plunkett.

(Photo thanks to State Library NSW)

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Dan Murphy's

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

Penrith Regional Galler y Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Height s

Super Save Compounding Chemis t

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo IGA

Londonderr y Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Little Bottler

MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt

RM Newsagency

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Ampol Coreen Avenue

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Au stralian Arms

Brisket Boys

Ca fé Fre d

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hogs Bre ath C afe

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Golf Club

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Ta s tify

Tattersalls Hotel

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

CHOICE Pharmacy

Mobil Ser vice Station

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys All Good Newsagency

Andrew s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Monfar ville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Mar ys Band Club

St . Mar ys

McDonald's St Mar ys South

BEST WAY TO SORT LEADS

Let’s be honest: managing leads can get messy fast.

One minute, you are jotting down an enquiry on a sticky note. Next, you’re digging through emails trying to remember who asked for a quote last week. If you are relying on memory or scattered notes to track leads, it might be time for a system that works with you, not against you.

The good news is that getting your leads organised does not have to be complicated. A few small tweaks can make a big difference to how quickly you follow up, how many leads you convert, and how much easier it feels to stay on top of everything.

Here’s where to start.

Create one central lead tracker

It does not have to be fancy. Even a basic spreadsheet is better than chasing scraps of paper. The goal is to have one place where every enquiry is recorded. This way, you will never lose track of a potential client, and you

will have a clear list to follow up with. Whether you use Excel, Google Sheets, or an online CRM, keeping it simple and central is key. Use smart forms to streamline enquiries

One of the simplest ways to improve your lead management is to upgrade the way you collect information in the first place. Rather than relying on emails or phone calls alone, a well-designed contact form on your website can save time and help you respond more effectively.

Tools like Jotform allow you to set up branded contact forms that feed straight into your lead tracker.

Don’t set and forget

Collecting leads is only part of the process. The real value comes from how you manage them afterwards. Set aside time each week to review your lead sheet, follow up with past enquiries, and check for any missed opportunities.

Prioritise your follow-ups

Not every lead needs the same level of attention

The Experts

HANNAH STACK

straight away. By using the information you have collected, such as project timelines or urgency, you can sort your leads into groups. For example, some might need immediate quotes, while others are still gathering information. Prioritising who to follow up with first helps you use your time more effectively and gives the most promising leads the attention they deserve.

A simple, organised approach to lead management can make a real difference to your business. When you have the right systems in place, it becomes easier to stay on top of enquiries, and build better relationships.

A1 AAA ARDV ARK BUDGET GARDEN SERVICE

Western Weekender

PUBLIC NOTICES

Cour tesy Bus Driver Required

We’re happy to assist you! Visit during business hours: 4761 3210

OVERLANDER HOTEL, PENRITH (Toyota Tarago 8 seater) After noon and Evening Shifts Apply by Email sue@briscoehotelgroup.com.au

2/42 ABEL ST, JAMISONTOWN

MON-WED: 9AM-5PM THU: 9AM-3PM FRI: 8AM-4PM

Do you want to reach homes in the Penrith area each week? Call 4722 2998 Now! Advertise your business here!

It’s not as expensive as you think!

CUB CAMPER TRAILER

2008 Supamatic Offroad

Rego till Dec 2025

All Aussie Canvas including Tropical Roof Front awning with side wall and other accessories

Excellent condition $10,000 Sid 0407 024 736 57141

DEERUBBIN LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL (“ the LALC”) (ADMINISTRATOR APPOINTED)

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS

In my capacity as Administer, notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of members for the year ended 30 June 2025 will be held at West Tradies Chifley Room, 247 Woodstock Ave, Dharruk, NSW on Wednesday, 15 October 2025 from 6:00PM.

A G E N D A

1. Introductions, confirmation of attendance and apologies.

2. Review of the LALC’s certified membership roll.

3. Code of conduct including code of meeting behavior

4. Administrator update.

5. Receipt of the annual and financial reports for the year ended 30 June 2025 in conjunction with the audited financial statements.

6. Land and Property update – Kayne Moreton LALC

Land Conservation Supervisor

7. Membership applications

8. Board nomination process

9. General business and question time i.e. Administrator Q&A

For health and safety purposes, it is respectfully requested that you reconsider your attendance at the meeting if you are generally feeling unwell or have recently been exhibiting flu like symptoms

If you have any specific questions pertaining to the administration process, please let us know in advance of the meeting to assist in the orderly conduct of the meeting.

Our contact details are Tim Gumbleton - 0418 9 19 882 / tim.gumbleton@rsm.com.au. Liz Inman - 02 6586 7701 / liz.inman@rsm.com.au

Please note that if you have any enquiries relating to property management, please email Diana at: housing@deerubbin.org.au

Dated 22nd day of September 2025

TIMOTHY GUMBLETON, Administrator

Rubbish Removers

ENTERTAINMENT

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

FRESH TAKE ON CLASSIC

ALLY HALL

We’ve all had moments where we’ve wondered, ‘What if?’, and in the musical ‘& Juliet’, we get to see what would have happened if Juliet didn’t follow Romeo into that bright light at the end of William Shakespeare’s iconic ‘Romeo and Juliet’.

The idea is explored through two storylines – that of Romeo and Juliet, and that of William Shakespeare and his wife Anne Hathaway.

“It’s basically a play within a play. You see the outside perspective of William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway as well as the new pathway for Juliet’s character,” explained Jade Lee, who plays Juliet.

“Anne gets to write the play from her perspective, and we get to see Juliet’s growth and how she takes control of her own destiny.”

However, chaos ensues when Shakespeare doesn’t approve of Hathaway’s storyline.

“Shakespeare doesn’t like that Anne has introduced a new love interest because he obviously prefers his version of the play,” Lee described.

“With that in mind, he decides to bring Romeo back to life and it creates a conflict between the two characters.

Shakespeare also introduces a new love interest for Juliet’s love interest. There are so many layers, and all these characters are trying to find themselves and understand what life is.

“It’s written so well, and the audience is really taken on a journey, and you get to see the characters’ mindsets and how the choices that people make affect their fate and their destiny.”

Amongst the humour and pandemonium, the musical also explores important themes.

“Self-discovery is a key theme. Juliet learns who she is outside of the story that was written for her,” Lee explained.

“You see independence and empowerment, but you also see love in so many forms. Not just romantic but also love amongst family and self.

“It dives into second chances and new beginnings, as well as the power of choice and how making your own decisions shapes your life.”

The play has been described as immersive, using music and staging to hook the audience.

“It’s such a great experience to have a jukebox musical where you can have so many famous pop hits that people will be able to sing along with,” Lee said.

“We also have a lot of big sets, and we have a few surprises which will be pretty cool for an audience to see. It’s definitely a step further from anything that people have seen within community theatre.”

See the captivating musical at Riverside Theatres from October 3 to 19. Find out what happens when Juliet ditches her tragic end and trades it for a second chance at life and love by booking online at www.riversideparramatta.com.au.

THINGS TO DO

Support local theatre at Ruby Productions

From October 4 to October 18, Ruby Productions presents ‘The Glass Menagerie’ – a play set in 1940s St Louis, USA. It revolves around Tom – the narrator and protagonist – and is based on his memories of his mother and sister. The play will be performed at the John Lees Centre. Tickets are available online at www.rubyproductions.com.au/whatsonoct.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

Penrith CBD Corporation

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the fourth Monday of the

New evolution of circus comes to Penrith

Prepare to be amazed as a quirky ring master presents ‘Cirque Nouvelle’ – a new evolution of circus. Expect to see acrobatics, juggling, aerials, balancing, contortion, and many more jaw dropping feats! This show on October 5 at The Joan is guaranteed to thrill and captivate the whole family. Buy a ticket online at www.thejoan.com.au/whats-on/cirque-nouvelle.

month at Henry Lawson Club at 10.30am. All new members welcome.

Probus Club of Nepean

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

Ropes Crossing Probus Club

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

St Clair Probus Club

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

Penrith Lions Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

Red Cross Penrith

Meetings held the second Thursday

Emma Memma brightens up the holidays

ARIA award-winning children’s entertainer Emma Memma is bringing her brand-new show ‘Dance Island Party’ to Panthers on Tuesday, October 7, giving local families a chance to dance, sing and party these October School Holidays. Buy tickets online at penrith.panthers.com.au/event/emma-memma-dance-island-party.

of the month for lunch. Members and volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Penrith NASHOS

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

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Nepean Food Services

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

Free food shop

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

JP service

Located in Western Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing

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

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

Arms of Australia Inn

Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.

Penrith Women’s Health Centre

Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

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

‘TRON: Ares’ follows Ares, an advanced Program sent from the digital world into reality, marking humanity’s first encounter with artificial intelligence beings.

The film marks the third installment of the ‘TRON’ series, following ‘TRON’ (1982) and ‘TRON: Legacy’

(2010), and will star Jared Leto, Evan Peters, Greta Lee and Jeff Bridges.

‘TRON: Ares’ will be in cinemas nationwide on October 9.

Calling all Swifties to celebrate ‘The Official Release Party of a Showgirl’ in cinemas from October 4 to 6!

See the exclusive world premiere of the music video, ‘The Fate of Ophelia’, along with behind-the-scenes footage from the music video shoot, brand new lyric videos, and Taylor’s never-before-seen personal reflections on songs from her 12th studio album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl’.

www.hoyts.com.au

We all love a long weekend and this coming Monday, for Labour Day, My88 is celebrating the albums that reached number one in Australia in the ‘80s. Compiling the list got me all nostalgic for the days of record stores and buying or receiving albums. I was a kid who would ask for albums every birthday and Christmas. I always thought it was fortunate that my birthday was in July, it meant there were six months between my next drop of albums. When I first started getting albums in 1984, they were mostly various artists cassettes. I would spend ages scrolling through the cassette inserts, some would have lyrics, some just productions notes. Then I would play them to death, and often with cassettes, literal death if my big red boom box would eat that cassette.

WAYNE’S W RLD

with Wayne

Tunks

Many of these various artists compilations hit number one on the charts, and we’re having a special feature on Monday, highlighting these albums and playing a track from each one. Some of the best

one in your family owned ‘Choose 1985’, it holds the ‘80s record for most weeks at number one for a compilation album, with an impressive nine weeks on top. With songs like ‘Ghostbusters’, ‘Sunglasses at Night’, ‘Jump

performing compilations include, ‘1982 With a Bullet’, ‘1982 Out of the Blue’, ‘Thru the Roof ’83’, ‘Throbbin’ 84’, ‘H’its Huge ’84’ and ‘Hits of ’89 Volume 1’; which all stayed at number one for an impressive five weeks. Did you own any of these great compilations? There’s a good possibility that some-

(For My Love)’, ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It’, ‘Pride (In the Name of Love)’ and even ‘Agadoo’, it’s obvious why this was a popular buy for Christmas in 1984.

Listen from 8am, Monday, October 6 to hear songs from all the great albums that dominated our favourite era of music, the eighties.

Zach Top returns

Acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician Zach Top (pictured) has released his new song, ‘South of Sanity’.

The track is the latest unveiled from his new album ‘Ain’t In It For My Health’, which is out now.

Jordan Davis back in Australia

Fresh from supporting Luke Combs on his Australian tour earlier this year, Jordan Davis has locked in new tour dates for New Zealand and Australia.

His Sydney show will be

TR AC KS FROM

at Qudos Bank Arena on Tuesday, March 24 next year. He’ll be supported by Tucker Wetmore, Vincent Mason and Rachael Fahim.

Tickets are on sale now.

Dolly cancels shows

Some worrying news out of the US with country music legend Dolly Parton (pictured) postponing a number of Las Vegas shows due to “health challenges”.

“As many of you know, I’ve been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures. As I joked with them, it must be

time for my 100,000 check-up, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!” she said on social media. Parton was due to play at Caesars Palace from December.

Country music in mourning

Devastating news late last month with the death of songwriter Brett James in a plane crash.

James had written more than 500 top country songs for artists such as Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Jason Aldean and many more.

Carrie Underwood said:

“Brett’s passing is leaving a hole in all of us that I fear won’t ever go away.”

Chris Young added: “So sad you’re gone… Nashville is less without you, Brett James.” Radio legend Bobby Bones added: “Really sad to see that Brett James died. He was always extremely kind, and exceptionally generous with his time and stories. We had worked together a couple of times, and he had been on my podcast as well. And all were a joy. So sorry to hear the news and terribly sad for his family.”

Ê ‘Millionaire Hot Seat’ is officially returning in 2026, with beloved actress Rebecca Gibney in the host’s chair. Coming to 10 next year, ‘Millionaire Hot Seat’ will see six everyday Aussies facing a series of 15 questions for the chance to walk away with up to $1,000,000. ‘Hot Seat’ last aired on Nine with Eddie Maguire back in 2024. It’s not yet known what timeslot ‘Millionaire Hot Seat’ will have, but it could be 7pm weeknights.

JOHN CANDY: I LIKE ME, PRIME VIDEO

TV Guide: October 3 – 9

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe 10:30 The Pacific 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Mystery Road (M l) 1:55 Restoration Australia (PG) 2:55 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 3:25 Grand Designs (PG) 4:10 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:35 Professor T (M v) 9:20 Hard Quiz (PG) 9:55 Mother And Son (PG) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven Noon News 1:00 Seven News With Alex Cullen 1:10 Blankety Blank (PG) 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “Ticket To Paradise” (M l) (’22) Stars: George Clooney 10:45 Motorway Patrol (PG) 11:15 GetOn Extra 11:45 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise (PG) 12:45 Riviera (MA15+) 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Just For The Summer” (PG) (’20) Stars: Brant Daugherty 2:00 Our State On A Plate (PG) 2:30 Canoeing: ICF Slalom World Championships *Live* 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Find My Country House Australia (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Expend4bles” (MA15+) (’24) Stars: Jason Statham 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:30 Taskmaster Australia (PG) 11:30 Judge Judy (PG) 12:00 Everyday Gourmet 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Wheel Of Fortune 2:30 Lingo (PG) 3:30 10 News: Afternoon 4:00 House Hunters Australia 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:00 10 News Plus

STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Mountain Men (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFLW: Round 8: Melbourne v Essendon *Live*

1:25 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 3:30 First Dates UK (M) 4:35 Movie: “The Call Of The Wild” (PG) (’20) Stars: Harrison Ford 6:40 Movie: “The Borrowers” (PG) (’97) Stars: John Goodman 8:30 Movie: “Anger Management” (M s) (’03)

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Great Blue Wild (PG) 7:30 Dreaming Big 8:00 Movie: “Corpse Bride” (PG) (’05) Stars: Johnny Depp

Lose Weight, Cook Fast 9:30 Gourmet Farmer

10:00 JAG (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 A Million Little Things (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NBL: Melbourne United v New Orleans Pelicans *Live* 2:30 Becker (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 7:30

3:30 Worldwatch 5:35 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Sex: A Bonkers History (M) 9:25 Planet Sex With Cara Delevingne (MA15+) 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: “Night At The Museum: Battle Of The Smithsonian” (PG) (’09) 12:00 M*A*S*H (PG) 2:00

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:25 Beyond Paradise (PG) 1:25 Professor T (M) 2:10 I, Jack Wright (M l,v) 3:00 The Larkins (PG) 3:50 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 4:15 The Assembly 5:00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (M l) 5:30 Landline 6:00 Australian Story 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Beyond Paradise (PG) 8:30 Return To Paradise (M v) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Flemington *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise (PG) 8:00 Movie: “Die Hard 2” (M l,v) (’90) Stars: Bruce Willis 10:30 Movie: “The Jackal” (MA15+) (’97) Stars: Bruce Willis 1:00 Riviera (MA15+) 2:00 Home Shopping 4:00 It’s Academic 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra - Saturday 12:00 Explore 12:15 The Block (PG) 1:30 The Garden Gurus 2:00 Canoeing: ICF Slalom World Championships *Live* 4:00 Journey To Europe 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Rugby Union: Wallabies v All Blacks *Live* 9:40 NRL: Post-Match 10:30 Sharko - The Mark Graham Story (M v) 10:30 The Amazing Race

2:00 The Great Australian Doorstep (PG) 2:30 Better Homes And Gardens 4:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 6:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

12:00 Blokesworld (PG) 12:30 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 1:00 AFLW: Round 8: GWS v St Kilda *Live* 3:00 AFLW: Round 8: North Melbourne Tasmania v Sydney *Live* 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG)

1:00 Bringing Sexy Back (PG) 2:15 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 3:50 America’s Got Talent (PG) 5:25 Movie: “A Dog’s Purpose” (PG) (’17) Stars: Josh Gad 7:30 Movie: “Downton Abbey: A New Era” (PG) (’22) Stars: Hugh Bonneville

4:10 The Lake Winnipeg Project 4:30 Homesteads 5:00 Larapinta 6:00 Amplify (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “2001: A Space Odyssey” (G) (’68)

6:00 Home Shopping 9:00 Tough Tested (PG) 10:00 On The Fly 10:30 Buy To Build 11:00 Judge Judy (PG) 12:00 A Million Little Things (PG) 1:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Reel Action 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Blue Bloods (M v) 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Deal Or No Deal 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Frasier (M)

1:30 Building Off The Grid 2:30 Building Alaska (PG) 3:30 New Neighbourhoods 4:00 House Hunters USA 4:30 Farmhouse Facelift 5:30 Postcards (PG) 6:30 Amanda Owen’s Farming Lives 7:30 Escape To The Chateau 8:30 House Hunters 7:00 Bluey (Multiple Episodes) 7:30

ABC National News

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 David Attenborough’s Kingdom Of Plants 3:20 Grand Designs NZ (PG) 4:10 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia (PG) 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Pilgrimage: The

3:20 Heartbreak High (PG) 4:05 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Old House New Home (PG) 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Specials 7:05 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:35 QI (PG)

5:30 Marcus In The Med: Mallorca 6:00 Taste Of The Tropics: Troppo Kitchen 6:30 Hairy Bikers Mediterranean 7:30 Paul Hollywood Eats Japan 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover 10:30 Big Food Bucket List

2:35 A Fork In The Road (PG) 3:35 NITV News Update 3:40 BBC News At Ten 4:10 France 24 International News 4:40 PBS News Hour 5:40 Mastermind 6:40 Mysteries From Above (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering (PG)

3:05 Ski Rescue Down Under (PG) 4:05 Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge 5:05 Movie: “Wonder” (PG) (’17) Stars: Jacob Tremblay 7:30 Movie: “She’s The Man” (PG) (’06) Stars: Amanda Bynes 9:35 Movie: “Stick It” (PG) (’06)

12:15 Movie: “Golden Ivory” (PG) (’54) Stars: John Bentley 2:05 Movie: “West Of Zanzibar” (G) (’54) Stars: Anthony Steel 4:05 Movie: “The Big Country” (PG) (’58) Stars: Gregory Peck 7:30 TBA 9:30 TBA 11:00 See No Evil (M v)

7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 9:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 8:40 Where The Dreamings Come From 9:00 Rugby League: Koori Knockout *Live* From Kamilaroi Country 5:30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 6:40 NITV News Update 6:50 Colombia’s Wild Coast (PG) 7:40 Aerial Australia (PG) 9:00 Reel Action 9:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 10:00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures (PG) 11:00 Navigating The World 12:00 A Million Little Things (PG) 1:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Blue Bloods (M v) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 8:00 Frasier (PG) 10:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 11:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Ridiculousness (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00

James Martin’s Spanish Adventure 7:30 Adam Richman Eats Britain 8:00 Malaysia Gourmet With Justine Schofield 8:30 Rick Stein’s Spain 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover 10:30 Big Food Bucket List 2:40 Jeopardy! 4:45 France 24 International News 5:15 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 5:45 History’s Greatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 Sue Perkins’ Big American Road Trip (M)

3:00 Big Rigs Of Oz 3:30 Innovation Nation 3:45 Made In Korea: The K-Pop Experience (PG) 4:45 Movie: “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” (PG) (’88) Stars: Steve Martin 7:00 Movie: “Bill And Ted’s Bogus Journey” (PG) (’91) Stars: Alex Winter 11:45 Movie: “Silent Dust” (PG) (’49) Stars: Sally Gray 1:30 Movie: “They Who Dare” (G) (’54) Stars: Dirk Bogarde 3:45 Movie: “Red River” (G) (’48) Stars: John Wayne 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Volcano” (M v) (’97) Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

Get Macca’s® delivered.

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Peter Rabbit 6:00 Octonauts - Above And Beyond 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Piripenguins

7:30 7:30 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30

(PG) 7:30 Home, Land & Sea 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 A Million Little Things (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

4:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 4:00 Fix My Flip (PG)

DIY 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Good Bones

BELL PARTNERS ADDS TO EXPERIENCED TEAM

asset and business finance division in Sydney,” he said.

“Her experience covers consumer car loans, personal loans, commercial vehicle and asset loans, unsecured business loans, refinancing, and subprime lending, and she continually is thinking outside the box to find

“CARLY IS A GREAT ADDITION TO OUR ASSET AND BUSINESS FINANCE DIVISION”

solutions for her clients.”

Cappielli is a published author whose Listurbia won the 2019 Viva la Novella Prize from Seizure and Brio Listurbia was written during Cappielli’s time with the Western Sydney University’s Writing and Society Research Centre, where she completed a Doctorate of Creative Arts

“Listurbia is set in Sydney’s western suburbs and is told entirely in lists,” she said.

“I wanted to set the novella in western Sydney because I’ve grown up there so can write about things that people from other places probably wouldn’t know about, and secondly because I feel like western Sydney is not a traditional or romantic setting, especially not for experimental fiction, but I think it can be.

“Writing the book was a tremendous experience which I consider to be one of my greatest achievements.”

Stevenson said Bell Partners Finance strives to provide business borrowers with the best possible service offering.

“The asset and business finance division will not only work closely with our business clients, but partner with their accountants and financial advisers,” he said.

Bell Partners Finance has multiple locations throughout Australia, including Sydney CBD, Northwest Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Baulkham Hills, Newcastle and Tamworth.

LUXURY LOCAL LIVING

What is so great about this property? A stylish modern home with open-plan living, gourmet kitchen, spacious bedrooms, and a luxury master suite. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor flow, landscaped gardens, and a prime

Werrington location close to schools, shops, transport, and the future Metro link.

Who does this property suit? Whether you’re a first-home buyer, downsizer, or investor, this

is a rare opportunity to secure a quality home in a growing and vibrant community.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Werrington is a family-friendly suburb 50km

west of Sydney, offering great transport links, green spaces, and affordable housing. Close to schools, Western Sydney University, and Penrith’s major services, it’s ideal for convenient modern living.

Discover exclusive townhome

living in Oran Pa rk .

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

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

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

• Spacious, designer interiors

• Landscaped grounds

• Two to five-bedroom layouts

• Private porches and cour tyards

• Family-friendly living areas

• Premium finishes and inclusions

• Tranquil locations

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

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomesB anksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

The ResidencesTypical example of Oran Park townhomes

MOVE IN SOPHISTICATED HOME

ou will not be disappointed when you step into this architecturally designed, beautifully esented 4-bedroom home with multiple entertainment areas. Situated on a spacious ner block, this home boasts an exquisite n kitchen with a Butler’s Pantry, a eakfast bar, and a large, light- lled living oom with stunning light ttings.

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

Nestled in a sought-after pocket of Penrith, this home presents a rare opportunity on a generous 638 square metre block. This home features three well-sized bedrooms, a practical kitchen and dining space, and a light- lled living area, ideal for rst-home buyers, downsizers, or investors seeking long-term growth in the thriving Wester n Sydney property market. ZONED R4 - ENDLESS POTENTIAL IN PENRITH

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

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

KEEP STRONG IN OFF-SEASON

The off-season is often seen as a break from sport, but it’s actually the perfect time for young athletes to focus on strength and conditioning.

As a Strength and Conditioning Coach, I can’t stress enough how important this period is for building a strong foundation that supports performance and reduces injury risk during the season.

Off-season strength training helps athletes develop key physical qualities such as power, speed, and endurance without the pressure of competition. By focusing on correct technique and age appropriate exercises, athletes can strengthen their muscles, tendons, and joints, improving resilience to the demands of their sport. For example, stronger legs support faster sprints and higher jumps, while a strong core improves balance, coordination, and efficient movement.

Importantly, the off-season is the ideal time to

address weaknesses. Youth athletes often have muscular imbalances or areas that are underdeveloped due to repetitive sport-specific movements. Targeted strength exercises can correct these imbalances, reducing the risk of overuse injuries and helping athletes return to their sport fitter, faster, and more confident.

Strength training off-season also reinforces proper movement patterns. Learning to squat, hinge, push, pull, and land correctly not only enhances athletic performance but sets the stage for safe, long-term participation in sport. Athletes gain confidence in their physical abilities, which translates to greater effort, resilience, and enjoyment when they return to training and competition.

Finally, off-season S&C promotes discipline, goal-setting, and accountability. In a supportive training environment, young athletes learn the value of consistent effort, celebrate

The Experts

HANNAH NORRIE

OnePointHealth 4732 5188

progress, and develop habits that last a lifetime.

Strength training isn’t just for elite athletes, it’s a key part of developing strong, resilient and confident young players. Using the off-season wisely can make the difference between an injury prone athlete versus one who performs at their best all year round.

WINDOWS 10: MORE SUPPORT

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates, which could put many users at risk. If you are not ready or able to upgrade to Windows 11, Microsoft now offers the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This gives you a way to keep Windows 10 secure for one more year, until October 13, 2026.

The ESU program provides critical and essential security updates for Windows 10 after its official end-of-life. It does not include new features, non-security bug fixes, or technical support. For businesses, ESU can be extended up to three years, but for home users, the extension lasts only one year.

Option 1: Pay the Fee. The simplest way is to pay $30 USD for one year of security updates. This fee covers up to 10 devices on the same Microsoft account, which is helpful for families with several PCs. You can enrol through

Windows Update settings. If your device is eligible and running Windows 10 version 22H2, you will see an ‘Enrol in Extended Security Updates’ wizard. For businesses, the cost is significantly higher, starting at $61 per device for the first year, with a doubling of the cost each subsequent year for up to three years.

Option 2: Use Microsoft Rewards Points. If you collect Microsoft Rewards points by using Bing, shopping in the Microsoft Store, or playing Xbox games, you can use 1,000 points to pay for ESU enrolment. For example, downloading the Bing app awards you 500 points, making this option easily accessible to many users.

How to enrol: To qualify, your PC must:

• Run Windows 10 version 22H2.

• Install the August 2025 cumulative update (KB5063709), which enables the ESU enrolment wizard.

• Be linked to a Microsoft account, regardless of which option you choose. Once eligible, go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update, look for the “Enrol now” option, and choose your preferred method: pay $30, redeem 1,000 Rewards points, or sync with OneDrive.

Option 3: Sync with OneDrive for Free Updates. You can obtain ESU for free by enabling Windows Backup and syncing your PC settings to OneDrive. You need to sign in with a Microsoft account and use the Windows Backup app to save your settings and files online. Microsoft gives you 5GB of OneDrive storage for free. If you need more space, extra storage starts at about $2 per month for 100GB.

Shopping Let’s

WHY IS MY PET SO ITCHY?

Itchy skin is one of the most frequent reasons dog owners bring their pets to the vet. While the occasional scratch is normal, persistent itching, licking or chewing often signals an underlying health issue. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, grass, or other environmental factors. For some, this may cause irritation only in certain areas – like the paws – while others may experience full-body itchiness, recurring ear infections, or ongoing skin problems.

Your pet’s skin and coat are windows to their overall health, so it’s important not to ignore the signs. Here are some of the most common causes of itchy skin in dogs:

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the top culprits behind intense itching. In sensitive dogs, even a

single flea bite can cause severe irritation, most often around the tail base. Because fleas multiply quickly, prevention is essential, and all pets in the household should be treated – even those that mostly stay indoors. Left unchecked, flea allergies can lead to secondary skin infections, making your pet even more uncomfortable.

Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy): Atopy is a reaction to environmental allergens such as pollen, mould spores, and dust mites. Dogs with atopy often chew at their paws or scratch their armpits and belly.

Some have an inherited skin barrier weakness, making them more vulnerable to allergens. If untreated, mild itchiness can progress to widespread dermatitis, requiring ongoing management.

Food Allergy Dermatitis: Food allergies may develop after the first year of life and are commonly linked to ingredients like beef, chicken, or wheat. Diagnosis usually involves a strict food elimination trial with a novel protein (such as kangaroo or duck) for at least three months. If symptoms improve during the trial and flare up again when old foods are reintroduced, a food allergy is likely responsible.

Mange: Mange is caused by mites such as Demodex or Sarcoptes (scabies). Symptoms include intense itching, hair loss, and inflamed skin. Scabies is highly contagious, so rapid veterinary treatment is crucial to prevent spread to other pets.

Hot spots: Hot spots are moist, inflamed skin lesions that develop from excessive scratching, licking, or chewing. They often arise from flea bites, wounds, or skin allergies. These painful sores can worsen quickly without treatment, leading to infection.

When to see a vet: Persistent scratching should always be taken seriously. Signs that warrant a vet visit include:

• Constant licking, biting or chewing at the skin

• Redness, sores or scabs

• Bald spots or hair loss

• Frequent face, paw or belly rubbing

• Decreased playfulness or appetite

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent chronic skin issues and help your dog feel comfortable again.

For professional advice and care, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027. Our team is here to help your pet stay happy, healthy and itch-free.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The fiery Super Full Moon ignites your sociable, spontaneous and adventurous Aquarius side, as you mix with locals and explore your neighbourhood. But slow down (and calm down) otherwise you might put your foot in your mouth and come a cropper! With the Sun in Libra, try to find more balance in your relationships and more equilibrium within. Your motto is from birthday great Desmond Tutu, “We are made for friendliness. We are made for togetherness.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Expect a rather intense week as the fiery Full Moon stirs vivid dreams, hidden compulsions or submerged secrets. You could also become obsessed about someone (or something) from your complicated past. If you’re a bright Bull, you’ll learn from your mistakes, let go and move on. Wednesday’s fabulous Venus/Jupiter link favours love, creativity and local community connections as you socialise with family members and/ or close friends.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Many Lions are feeling restless. This week’s fiery Super Full Moon activates your aspirations and adventure zone, so you’ll feel like pursuing a dream or going on an exciting trip. But Saturn cautions

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Tuesday’s fiery Super Full Moon activates your money zones, as you start to see your current financial situation in a revealing new light. And – for some financially challenged Fish - money matters could come to a head. Maybe it’s time to curb spending, boost savings and/or re-design your dreams? Are you unhappily single? Love and travel are linked, so you could meet your soul mate while on holiday or they could work in the tourism industry.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

This week the fiery Super Full Moon focuses on friendships. How to nurture them, keep them … and let them go if you have outgrown each other. You’ll find mutual interests are essential to longterm platonic relationships. Mercury (your patron planet) squares Pluto mid-week, so avoid being scatterbrained, superficial and slapdash. You’ll find the more mentally disciplined you are, and the more you focus on a problem, the more solutions you’ll come up with.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Tuesday’s fiery Super Full Moon shines a bright spotlight on trust issues and long-forgotten secrets. And carefully laid plans may veer off in unexpected directions – which could be wonderful or stressful, depending on the circumstances. Whatever happens, drop the perfectly planned schedule, and go with the flow. When it comes to money matters, joint finances, taxes or trust issues, avoid being uncharacteristically rash. Slow down and take a second look.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

There’s a super lucky aspect this week as Jupiter (your power planet) trines Venus (planet of love, beauty, pleasure, harmony and the arts). Which boosts your Sagittarian charisma and is particularly good for work involving writing, teaching, performing, publishing, public relations and all sorts of creative projects. Throw in a fiery Super Full Moon on Wednesday and you’re set for an actionpacked, stimulating week! If you want to last the distance, pace yourself.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

There’s a Super Full Moon in fiery Aries on Tuesday, so do your best to get the ratio right between personal needs and relationship responsibilities. And then Saturday’s Venus/Saturn opposition could stir up a frustrating old partnership problem. So resist the urge for hot-headed arguing and feisty foot stamping, which could lead to a headache or migraine. With the Sun visiting Libra, the buzz words for the week are tranquillity, cooperation and balance.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Jupiter’s jumping through your sign and there’s a Super Full Moon! Time to connect with colleagues and clients at work, plus family and friends from within your local community as you talk, text, tweet, publish, podcast or post up a storm. And don’t persist with outdated old ways of doing things. Be proactive about initiating exciting, adventurous and creative new strategies. But things could become intense with a child, teenager, friend or lover mid-week.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Jupiter (planet of positivity and good luck) forms a fabulous aspect to Venus (your power planet) so it’s a wonderful week to make a wish, dream a dream, and keep your fingers crossed for a fabulous outcome! It’s also time to focus on a problem and think things through carefully. Your motto for the moment is from singer/songwriter PJ Harvey (who turns 56 on Thursday), “I’m a Libra. That means that I can make a decision, but only after much thought.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The Sun is transiting through your career zone, which boosts your capacity for hard work and your ability to lead others. But don’t do so at the expense of your home and family life. Tuesday’s Super Full Moon highlights the importance of getting the balance right between professional success and domestic harmony. Be inspired by fellow Capricorn, writer A. A. Milne, “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

5. Irish Sea seabird

6. Ill-disposed

7. Listen!

8. British award (1,1,1)

9. Animal support organisation (1,1,1,1,1) 10. Air mattress 12. Recurrent pattern 14. Cosmetics house, Elizabeth ...

Directive

Ghostly 22. African ‘laughing’ scavengers 23. Frigid

25. TV reception

26. Reworded

29. Fairy-tale cat, Puss ... (2,5)

32. Solicit

35. Soviet spaceman, Yuri

37. Pivot

38. Shout

40. Wails in grief

41. Hang around

42. Flans

43. Lease again

44. Deserted tots

47. Made fizzy

51. Form liking for (4,2)

52. Leather strips

53. Most painful

54. Green sushi paste

58. World fairs

59. Shop ... you drop (‘3)

61. Prevent (disaster)

63. Pause punctuation mark

64. Stab

65. Huddle cosily

66. Adjusted (piano)

68. Cove

71. Gawked

72. Account

74. Rewrite (essay)

76. Illegally help

78. Looked over

80. Pub drink

83. Missing in action (1,1,1)

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

CARRIAGE

CART

CHILDCARE

CREDIT

MACARONI

SCARCE

VICAR

How to beat Str8ts –

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

A DREAM DESTINATION

Every time I land in Cambodia, it feels familiar and easy. The heat hits first, heavy but alive. Then as you make your way from the airport and into the city centre the vibe that makes Cambodia a must visit reveals itself again. The smiles – the tuk-tuk drivers waving, the kids laughing in doorways, the street vendors already calling out. There’s an openness here that you feel instantly, and it pulls you in before you’ve even unpacked your bag.

I’ve explored a lot of countries, but Cambodia has a grip on me. And when you come with me, I want you to feel that same spark – that mix of excitement, curiosity and belonging that makes travel unforgettable. It’s an integral part of my Asian adventures and along with our stay in Vietnam, it completes the magic travel canvas.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Let’s start where every journey here should begin: Angkor Wat at sunrise. I’ve seen it more times than I can count, but it never loses its magic. Standing in the dark before dawn, waiting with a quiet crowd, you feel the anticipation build. Then the towers appear, shadows at first, before the sky ignites with oranges and pinks.

I’ll take you past the crowds into quieter corners where roots of ancient trees claw through stone walls, where silence hums louder than any camera shutter. My personal guides will tell you the stories their families and ancestors have lived – of kings who built temples that outlived empires, of explorers who stumbled upon them centuries later. It’s not just sightseeing. It’s stepping into history with your own two feet, and it will blow your mind.

Beyond the temples, Siem Reap’s streets pulse with energy and creativity. The Old Market buzzes with local artisans, vibrant textiles, and the intoxicating aroma of street food that ranges from sweet mango sticky rice to spicy, sizzling noodles. Café culture here offers the perfect pause, letting you sip rich Cambodian coffee while watching the world drift by.

Evenings bring a new kind of magic. Pub Street comes alive with music, laughter, and the glow of lanterns, pumping music, a controlled chaotic madness that has a pulse of its own. Sitting in one of the corner pubs and people watching is one of my favourite pastimes here.

The Rhythm of Phnom Penh Phnom Penh is a city that keeps you on your toes. Tuk Tuks zip around like they own the streets, monks glide past in saffron robes, and food stalls smoke with the smell of grilled skewers. I’ll take you to the Royal Palace, where gold spires glitter against the sky, and then to hidden cafés serving iced coffee strong enough to wake the dead.

But I won’t shy away from Cambodia’s painful past either. We’ll visit Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields. It’s not easy, but it’s important. You’ll leave with a deeper respect for the resilience of the Cambodian people, and that’s part of truly knowing this place. You will be amazed at the way the people will embrace you and want you to understand their past, present and help pray for their future.

One of my favourite things is taking the group for an evening stroll along the shores of the Mekong. Imagine this: lanterns swaying, the city lights flickering on waters, cold beers in hand, and a table full of spring rolls and noodles and local delights. The breeze cools the heat of the day, and laughter spills into the night air.

It’s one of those moments where travel feels

effortless. You’re not just watching Phnom Penh – you are part of it.

Giving Back: New Dream of Cambodia Children’s Organisation

One stop that means the world to me is visiting the New Dream of Cambodia Children’s Organisation. It’s more than just a visit – it’s a chance to connect, to laugh, to share stories, and to support children who are building brighter futures. You’ll see their classrooms, hear their songs, and feel the energy of young people who, despite tough beginnings, radiate joy and determination. Every visit here reminds me that travel isn’t only about what we see – it’s about what we give back. Supporting this organisation, even in small ways, leaves an impact that goes far beyond our trip. You will be amazed at what a small offering can bring to these beautiful souls, and you will feel a real sense of connection and pride in giving!

“IT’S MORE THAN JUST A VISIT, IT’S A CHANCE TO CONNECT”

Why you should come

Traveling to Cambodia on your own would still be amazing. But with me, it’s not just about ticking boxes off an itinerary. I’ll show you the shortcuts, the hidden corners, the food stalls locals actually eat at. I’ll make sure you don’t just see Cambodia – you feel it. And maybe most importantly, you won’t just come home with photos. You’ll come home with stories, with friends, with a piece of this country that stays with you long after you leave.

So come with me. Let’s share sunsets over Angkor, laughter on the Mekong, connections with the locals and love at giving to those that are in need! Cambodia is waiting – and it’s even better when we experience it together. The Travellingguy’s Premium 19 Day Best of Vietnam and Cambodia Tour January 2026 is on sale now. Visit www.thetravellingguy.com.

Nights on the Mekong

The locals bring a smile.

At its heart, Cambodia is about connection.

A sunrise to savour.

Now’s the time to get that check-up!

No matter what stage of life you may be at, your health is critical.

But our busy lives mean we sometimes neglect those crucial annual appointments and check-ups.

Today, the Weekender presents a special feature: The Great Penrith Health Check.

And it’s encouraging you to do a full health check-up, making sure you’re good to go for whatever is coming next in life.

So get out your phone and your calendar, and let’s start making those appointments!

Get those teeth checked

You should be getting your teeth checked by your dentist at least once a year. A thorough clean and check for any issues, such as cavities, is a crucial part of keeping your oral health in check.

Check in with your GP

Just like your car gets a service, you should be servicing your body too!

Check in with your GP and ask for the works – a full once over including a check of your blood pressure, general wellbeing and of course get a blood test done.

Depending on your age, it may also be time for age-specific checks as well.

Check those aches and pains

Have you been struggling with back pain, but failing to get it checked? The time has come to stop

Your Mental Health Matters!

the delay and get things looked at now.

Consider a visit to Penrith Exercise Physiology, opening soon in Crane-

Mental clarity is vital for overall wellbeing, helping you make better decisions and feel lighter, happier, and more confident.

Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, and NLP uncover thought patterns, reset unhelpful habits, and empower you to take back control.

With tailored hypnosis recordings, positive changes can be felt from your first session—supporting relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, stress, low self-esteem, weight management, and more.

Time to get fit

We sometimes let our general weight and fitness become less of a priority as we tackle the challenges of work, family and managing a household.

But there’s no better time to start your fitness journey than today. Check out all the local gyms around town and find one that is right for you.

For one on one personal health coaching, consider Vision Personal Training on Station Street in Penrith.

Check those eyes and ears

Don’t forget to visit an optometrist for an eye check. And if you already have glasses, make sure your prescription is right for you.

And what about your ears? Hear Clear on Castlereagh Street in Penrith can help guide you through the process of getting a hearing aid, if you require one.

Your mental health matters

Health is not just about aches and pains.

Mental health is important too.

brook. They can help with back, neck and joint pain as well as injury rehabilitation and general wellness, along with exercise programming.

Talk to your GP about what support is available.

And why not chat with the team at Hilltop Hypnotherapy too, they’re here to help.

MATES LUNCH

FRIDAY 21 NOVEMBER | 12 for 12.30pm

Proudly sponsored by:

Fundraising and awareness for The Australian Man Cave Support Group PANELIST

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

2SM talkback radio broadcaster, journalis and podcaster

Founding Father & President Australian Man Cave Support Group

Penrith Man of the Year & Young Man of the Year Awards www.karenmckeown.com.au/nominations/penrith-man-young-man-of-the-year-awards/

PANELIST

Charity Walk adventurer mental health advocate and fundraiser MARK

Radio host, celebrity and former NRL player

au

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Let’s roll with the Tundra

The growth in popularity of utes as multi-purpose family vehicles saw a number of manufacturers introduce ‘full size’ American pickup trucks to Australian drivers, with Toyota joining the ranks with the Tundra.

Although classed as a ‘full size’ pickup, the Tundra looks remarkably compact, helped by a lower roofline compared to even existing ‘mid size’ utes already available locally.

With an overall height of 1985mm, it slides into most underground car parks, but with a length of 5955mm, good luck putting in a shopping centre carpark.

Our test car was the range-topping Platinum, tipping the scales at 2834kg, the maximum weight of 3,536kg giving it a payload of 702kg and a 4,444kg maximum towing capacity.

While a ute body doesn’t leave much scope for individuality, the Tundra manages to stand out from other blockier looking models, courtesy of rounded corners and a standout grille stretching groundwards from the bonnet lip to the bumper line.

Factory-fitted full length side steps ease entry and exit, even for tall drivers, while the rear bumper includes a recessed step, and the trailer harness plug built into the step, no need to search under the bumper for the connector.

Proving its luxury credentials, the tailgate is electrically operated for raising and lowering, with switches on the body, in the dash and even on the remote key fob!

Continuing the luxury theme, the 10-way power adjustable front seats are broad and deep, with thick, soft padding, trimmed in a synthetic leather, with heating, cooling and four-way massage functions, while the rear bench is also synthetic leather trimmed with heating and cooling for the outboard seats.

The rear seat is the only let-down, although comfortable, it is arranged stadium-style, while this gives a good field of view for passengers, it reduces rear headroom, anyone over 170cm is up in the headlining, especially with the standard panoramic sunroof.

Rear headroom aside, everything was big, with numerous storage spaces, multiple cup holders, wireless charging and multiple USB connections.

Audio was a thunderous 12-speaker JBL sound system with Apple and Android connectivity and a 14” touchscreen, resembling a domestic television.

The driving position was outstanding, while ergonomics are not always a Toyota specialty, the Tundra was exceptional, everything was where you wanted it, except for the main volume switch, it was a bit of a stretch, but there is a steering wheel-mounted control as well.

While all body shapes and sizes are accommodated, taller and wider drivers will appreciate the extra room available.

Not surprisingly, fit and finish is superb, it is

a Toyota after all, although this one is proudly built in Texas, USA, with the right-hand drive conversion carried out by Walkinshaw Automotive Group in Melbourne, with a full Toyota warranty.

Under the bonnet is a twin-turbo petrol V6 with hybrid electric drive, producing a healthy 326kW and 790Nm, enough to comfortably

push the Tundra down the road, even when fully laden, although I will admit to not having a trailer remotely heavy enough!

With no V8 option for Australia, the engineers created an aural extravaganza with the exhaust note, a rumbling thunder that is one of the 10 best engine sounds I have ever driven.

The instant kick of the electric motor combined with the seemingly endless torque of the V6 lets the Tundra leap away from a standing start, easily keeping pace with stopstart traffic.

With so much power available from the electric drive, it also means fuel consumption is not ridiculously high, there is very little wasted effort in the driveline, although it is tempting to crack the throttle every so often, just to hear that glorious exhaust note.

Rolling starts are the same, the Tundra is nearly unstoppable, the 10-speed auto drops back to 4th or 5th gears, depending on the road speed, and in a few heartbeats you have thundered past the slower traffic.

While power and acceleration are attention-grabbing, the Tundra is no one-trick pony, it has a superb ride, proving it is possible to have a load-carrying capability and a smooth ride in the same vehicle.

This is where the Tundra really impresses, there is no mistaking it is a capable and efficient load carrier, but it offers genuine comfort for five, making it a true all-rounder.

The suspension is firm, but the long wheelbase has enough time between impacts to absorb shocks without sending vibrations through the cabin.

“TUNDRA IS A BIG, BOLD TEXAN, WITH DELIGHTFUL ROAD MANNERS AND THE STRENGTH TO MOVE YOUR HOUSE”

For such a big vehicle, the steering is excellent, it turns and tracks accurately, no, you don’t throw it into corners, but you can place it on the road with confidence you will go where you wanted.

That said, this is a longer wheelbase than most people are used to, it is truck-sized, you need to adjust your lines accordingly, it will stay inside the lines comfortably, but your turn-in points become wider.

Okay, this is a $185,000 vehicle, sadly not one I am likely to own, nor are most people, but yes, if the chance came up, I would take it in a heartbeat.

There is a fun factor about driving the Tundra that is missing in many modern cars, you can’t help but enjoy yourself, it just makes you smile every time you drive it.

Yes, parking can be interesting, this is not the car for the milk run, but let’s face it, if you can afford a Tundra, you can afford a runabout as well.

Bottom line – if you get the chance, take it!

Luxury is everywhere you look inside the Tundra.

The Tundra is expensive, and definitely a head-turner.

Proof that some things remain the same, Nissan’s Y62 Patrol is still in the market, virtually unchanged, more than 15 years after it was launched.

While it is not unknown for models to have a long life – looking at you, Volvo – it is a rarity to go this long without an update or redesign.

In fairness, the body shape remains fresh, and as one of a small number of genuine off-road, dual range, four-wheel-drive wagons, there is still demand for the Patrol.

The downside is very little has changed over the years, while this can be a testament to Nissan’s original design, it means the flaws remain the same as 15 years ago.

For me, a floor-mounted park brake, especially in a 4WD wagon, is not practical and should have been replaced years ago, or, never installed in the first place.

My other major complaint are the flat and unsupportive seats, while the diamond-quilted leather looks good, these are not seats you sit in.

Instead, you feel as though you are perched on top of them, a feeling exacerbated by the low-mounted steering wheel.

While Nissan has fitted a Hydrau-

lic Body Motion Control system, partnered with independent double wishbones and coil springs on all wheels, a system usually found on sports and performance cars demanding accurate handling and steering, I feel like the whole car is swaying underneath me, with limited connection between car and driver.

tainment unit with wireless Apple and Android connectivity and a six-speaker sound system.

The Warrior adds Alcantara to the standard leather and suede trimmed doors and dash, gone is the previous woodgrain trim, I also appreciated the extendable sunvisors that blocked glare without impacting

The suspension system works well in both the Patrol and its uber-offroad cousin the Warrior in rugged and broken terrain, but does not add to the on-road driving behaviour.

Front seats aside, they are both well-equipped, a recent refresh added a 12.3” touchscreen info-

forward vision.

Unfortunately the middle rear headrest takes a chunk out of rear vision, sitting squarely in the driver’s view.

I am also a massive fan of Nissan’s 360-degree camera system, they were one of the pioneers, and still

DIRTY DIESEL CAR OR TRUCK ENGINE?

have the most functional version, especially for off-road driving.

With the body canted over at aggressive angles climbing obstacles, driver vision becomes non-existent, it was good to see what was around us, to avoid surrounding rocks and vegetation.

A friend suggested you don’t complain about fuel prices if you own a V8 and the Patrol/Warrior is a classic case in point.

Nissan’s 5.5-litre unit, producing 298kW and 560Nm, has a prodigious thirst around town, gulping 95 Octane at around 18-20 litres per 100km, dropping to around 13-15 litres per 100km in highway driving.

It made short work of towing our race car, aside from some driveline jolting on take-off, rolling down the highway at 100km/h, it was like there was nothing behind us.

And, I would be a liar to deny it, there is a glorious V8 bellow every time you crack the throttle, amplified in the Warrior by a unique bi-modal system that turns the aural pleasure up to 11.

While we didn’t venture far offroad with the Patrol, we took the Warrior to our favourite test track, allowing comparison with other off-roaders.

No surprise, it slayed it. Dropping the pressures to 25psi, and upsetting the tyre pressure monitoring system, it sailed over everything, the chunky 295/70R18 Geolandar tyres had plenty of bite across a range of surfaces, including loose flint, rocks and gravel.

Not only has Prem Car lifted the body, giving 323mm of clearance, the underbody has been tidied up, with no hanging parts to snag rocks or ruts.

The V8’s power provided a seamless push over a couple of obstacles from a standing start, yes the body does jump and buck, that is normal in those conditions, not once did we scrape or bottom out.

Make no mistake, the Patrol Warrior, developed by Victorian company Prem Car, is perhaps the best factory-built offroad wagon in the local market.

My problem is, even for a dedicated offroader, unless you live far from bitumen roads, the Patrol’s on-road performance is compromised.

If you can overlook this, then absolutely the Patrol and/or the Warrior should be high on your shopping list, there is very little with a factory warranty capable of matching it.

The Nissan Patrol is still delivering.

CONFIDENT CATS BACK ON FIELD

Story continued from » p.56

“We’re also welcoming back Charlie Griffith from a season in Tasmania, while Ben Tracey has come back to the club after a couple of years at Randwick.”

This season Penrith will once again be led by experienced skipper Ryan Gibson along with opening batsman Nick Adams and bowling sensation Liam Doddrell.

“I think it’s a really good side, predominantly made up of local juniors,” Buttigieg said.

“We’re not going to put too many expectations on them but we want them to remain competitive and we want to see our second grade, third grade and PGs do well too – that’s the focus.

“We’re a club that build from within, so we want to develop our own players and bring those guys through.”

Penrith’s opening match will be a One-Dayer against Sydney University this Saturday at Howell Oval.

Eyes on Penrith

World’s best athletes battling it out at Whitewater Stadium NATHAN

Just three days in and the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships have already been labelled a big success by paddlers and spectators alike.

The competition, featuring more than 250 athletes from 41 nations, kicked off on Monday at Penrith Whitewater Stadium with strong crowds on hand to watch the various canoe, kayak and kayak cross disciplines.

While Australia’s paddling stars are yet to medal over the first three days of competition, many of them have performed

exceptionally well against the best of the best in the paddling world.

Australia’s C1 Men’s team came closest to a medal on Tuesday afternoon.

Spurred on by a vocal home crowd, the Aussie trio of Tristan Carter, Kaylen Bassett and Ben Ross combined for the team’s event where they placed fourth, finishing agonisingly short of the podium despite producing three fast and faultless runs.

It took precision effort from the teams of France, Great Britain and Slovenia to push the Aussies out of the race for medals, with

Carter, Bassett and Ross sitting in bronze right up until the last run.

“It was nerve-racking,” Ross said.

“There are so many strong canoe teams out there. The French, GB, the Slovenians – the power houses of the sport and we were off early, so it was a long wait, that’s for sure.”

In the Women’s C1 Teams event on Tuesday, Czechia won gold, with Germany collecting silver and Great Britain nabbing Bronze. The Australian team featuring Noemie Fox, Kate Eckhardt and Georgia

O’Callaghan came ninth. Great Britain star and two-time Paris Olympic Games bronze medallist Kimberley Woods, who is competing at her ninth World Championships, said she’s been enjoying her time in Penrith so far.

“I love it here! It kind of feels like a home away from home –I’m here for another two months after,” Woods told the Weekender “I’m really happy to be here, the atmosphere is amazing. We saw a little disappointment with the Australian Canoe Men coming fourth, but hearing the crowd cheering sounded like a really cool atmosphere and there’s more to come that’s for sure.” Wednesday afternoon saw the Men’s and Women’s Kayak Teams Finals. Australia placed fifth in the Women’s Final and fifth in the Men’s Final.

Events scheduled on Thursday include the Men’s and Women’s C1 Finals, while Friday will see the Men’s and Women’s K1 Finals. Saturday, the final day of competition, will crown the Men’s and Women’s Kayak Cross Champions.

Australia’s Men’s Canoe Team. Photo: JGRimages.

Noemie Fox.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Penrith at training this week.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Young Panthers hit by Storm

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers have gone down to Minor Premiers Melbourne in the 2025 Jersey Flegg Grand Final at CommBank Stadium last Sunday. The Panthers showed plenty of resolve in the first half to take a 10-6 lead following a double to winger Jirah Liddiard before the Storm took control to take a 20-10 lead into half-time. The Storm maintained their momentum after the break with tries to fullback Hugo Peel – his second for the match – halfback Dylan Brettle, who was later named Player of the Match, and centre Liam Williams to seal a 38-16 win. “It’s unreal, I can’t believe it, I seriously can’t believe it,” Storm captain Preston Conn said. “If you said at the start of the year during pre-season that we could win the comp I would have laughed and said, ‘We couldn’t do it.’ We just found something this year and we’re just so tight down there.” The result saw Melbourne become the first team in history to win the Jersey Flegg competition from outside of New South Wales

CRICKET: The Penrith Cricket Club have had mixed results in the latest rounds of the Men’s Kingsgrove Sports T20 competition. Up against Campbelltown Camden last Saturday at Raby Sports Complex, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. The home side posted 9/121 after 20 overs. Isaac Nicholls was best of the bowlers taking 2/16. When Penrith hit the crease, they reached Campbelltown Camden’s target with seven wickets and 10 balls in hand. Jordan Watson scored 37 not-out in the victory. The following day, Penrith travelled to University Oval to face Sydney University. Sydney Uni won the toss and elected to bat. The home side were dismissed for 154. When Penrith hit the crease, they fell short of victory on 5/150 after 20 overs. Jordan Watson was again a beast with the bat, smashing 85 runs. Penrith won’t qualify for the Kingsgrove Sports T20 Finals but instead will turn their attention to the upcoming Belvidere Cup season.

CRICKET: Indian legend Ravichandran Ashwin has created history, joining Sydney Thunder for the upcoming BBL season. The Thunder Nation will welcome the biggest overseas signing since the League’s inception, with Ashwin set to become the first male player to have represented India to join a BBL club. Ashwin will enter the Thunder’s line-up in early January and ignite the club’s push to play in back-to-back BBL Finals. The 39-year-old brings an unrivalled cricket resume, a hunger to win and commitment to growing the game globally. His presence in Thunder green will bring leadership and class on-field, while

uniting the club’s multicultural western Sydney heartland. In 287 matches for India, Ashwin’s off-spin claimed 765 international wickets, including 537 wickets at Test level, to sit eighth

among bowlers all-time in the format. He is a Cricket World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013) winner with India, the ICC’s Cricketer and Test Cricketer of the Year of 2016 and a member of the 2011-20 Men’s Test Team of the Decade. Ashwin joins the club following his retirement from international duties and the IPL. “Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role,” Ashwin said. “I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation.”

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the signing of defender Poppie Hooks for the upcoming A-League Women season. Originally from Perth, Hooks has spent the past two seasons in the National Premier League Women’s competition with the Illawarra Stingrays, where she became a key part of their backline. Her standout performances were recognised with a place in the NPL Women’s Team of the Year, cementing her reputation as one of the strongest defenders in the competition. Wanderers A-League head

coach Geoff Abrahams said Hooks will bring a strong presence to the squad. “Poppie has been one of the standout defenders in the NPL over the last couple of seasons and we’re delighted to bring her to the Wanderers,” he said. Hooks said she was excited to make the move to western Sydney and is eager to get started. “My personal goals are definitely to win matches and play my best type of football,” she said.

AFLW: The GWS Giants have failed to win three matches in a row, going down to the West Coast Eagles 75-33 in Round 7 of the AFLW competition. The Giants had snared two wins on the trot for the first time since 2021 after a shock seven-point win over local rivals Sydney last round. GWS skipper Bec Beeson was busy with a game-high 27 disposals, four clearances and nine tackles. The Giants will regroup to play St Kilda this Saturday at Henson Park.

GRIDIRON: The Nepean Ducks have had a mixed weekend in Round 3 of the Gridiron NSW competition. In Tackle Football, Nepean’s Men’s team fell to the UTS Gators 28-12, while Nepean’s Colts team hammered the Gators 52-18. In Flag Football, Nepean’s Women’s team were belted by the Rebels White 66-6, but bounced back to defeat Sydney Uni 32-28. Nepean’s U15s team fell to the Katangas Blue 42-12, but fought back to prevail over the Seahawks 20-18.

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

Penrith’s Jersey Flegg team were defeated by Melbourne in the Grand Final.

Ravichandran Ashwin signs with Thunder.

The GWS Giants taste defeat again.

MOVE OVER FOOTY, CRICKET’S BACK!

The Penrith Cricket Club will look to build on last year’s successful season when they return to the pitch this Saturday for the opening round of the NSW Premier Cricket Belvidere Cup competition.

Penrith’s first grade team fell agonisingly short of a Grand Final appearance last season after wet weather prevented them from victory against Fairfield-Liverpool in the semi-finals.

Had the game not ended in a draw the Cats would’ve been Grand Final bound, instead the weather gods had other ideas.

“Last year was a fantastic season for us,”

Penrith head coach Warren Buttigieg told the Weekender

“To have the first grade team make a semi final and draw that match was a great season for them.”

Across the board Penrith was immense last season, with their fourth grade and fifth grade teams also making Finals appearances.

“To have two other grades make the semi finals as well was also a fantastic result.

We ended up finishing eighth in the Club Championships, which was a great effort,” Buttigieg said.

“Considering we earmarked it as a reset season for us, so we could get our culture under control moving forward, not only did we do that but we had some really good results as well.”

Penrith will be hoping for much of the same this summer, however they will be missing some key talent from last season.

“Tyran had been agitating for a few years to leave and whilst we want to keep all of our players, financially we were unable to compete with Bankstown,” Buttigieg said.

“We’ve brought in a young keeper in Jack Jobson from Wests. We’ve earmarked him as a future first grade keeper for us.”

Penrith wicket keeper Tyran Liddiard and pace bowler Sam Grant will suit up for Bankstown this season, while the club will also welcome back some familiar faces.

Penrith’s 2025 playing group. Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

NO TEARS, JUST PRIDE FROM PENRITH’S

At the Preliminary Final game against the Broncos at Suncorp on Sunday, local teacher Ben Cummins and Emu Plains business owner Anthea Strathdee watched in real time as Brisbane galloped on the field for the second half with a fire in their bellies, while the Panthers prowled back on with no steam left.

And now, for the first time since 2019, Panthers fans won’t see their beloved boys in the Grand Final.

“I’m disappointed and sad but also relieved in a lot of ways,” Cummins told the Weekender only hours after landing back in Sydney on Monday.

“The pressure of being back-toback grand finalists every year for the past five years makes for a stressful week. One of my first thoughts when the game ended was, ‘Well, I just saved myself $900 on tickets and I don’t have to worry about winning for the entire week anymore’.

“I’m also extremely proud of the boys and it’s been an awesome ride for the past five years.”

Unlike Cummins, a devastated Strathdee didn’t hang around in Broncos territory and made her way to Brisbane Airport straight after the

game. To her surprise, she bumped into some familiar faces before take-off.

“I had the unreal opportunity to see the team at the airport as I flew back from Brisbane, and I personally got to shake all their hands and look them in the eye and thank them for the most amazing season,” she explained, pride evident in her voice.

“I was over the moon that I got the opportunity to do that on behalf of all Panthers fans.”

Each of the die-hard Penrith supporters expressed how honoured they feel to be part of the Panthers community.

“Penrith is a working-class town and rugby league is a working-class sport, so they go hand-in-hand.

I think that’s why so many young people play footy, because it’s got that toughness – which is how we’re bred out here,” Cummins explained.

“It means a lot to those of us who were born and raised here that our players have either adopted our community or come from here themselves.”

Strathdee pointed out the Panthers are a good representation of Penrith.

“I like how they act towards the community, how well-spoken they are, and how genuine they are with their family and their community.

I think they’re the first club that I’ve seen letting their family members and children on the field after games,” she said.

“They really bring our community together – and not just over the last five years, but prior to that. There are many community members much older than me that have been supporting the team for many years.”

This year saw some massive milestones for the players – 250 games for co-captain Isaah Yeo, 200 games for Moses Leota, 100 Panthers games for Scott Sorensen, and Nathan Cleary became the top point scorer of all time for Panthers.

The boys blew fans away this year, and one newcomer has left a serious impression.

“I was at the Parramatta game late last year when we had the rivalry between Parramatta and Penrith,” Strathdee recounted.

“I saw Blaize Talagi walk over to Cleary at the end of the game – and at that time there wasn’t any note of him coming to the club yet – and Cleary shook his hand and gave him a nice tap on the back.

“After that, I said to my son, ‘I betcha that’s Cleary congratulating him on coming to the Panthers’. Later that week it was announced that he was coming, and I was stoked.”

The five-eighth stepped into the big

Blaize Talagi taking a selfie with Anthea Strathdee.

ALLY HALL

MOST PASSIONATE SUPPORTERS

shoes of Jarome Luai and gave fans a taste of the future of the Panthers.

“I’m really happy with Blaize Talagi – he missed some of the pre-season due to injury, but he’s really grown into his own and he’s probably my favourite at the moment,” Cummins agreed with Strathdee.

“Casey McLean had a really rough start to the season but finished strong, and Tom Jenkins has a good story – a Cinderella story, really. He came back from being lucky to get a contract and then basically helped us get into a semi-final. They’re probably the big three.”

After the history-making four premierships in a row – and this year’s climb from bottom rung on the ladder to the final four – Panthers put Penrith on the map, and despite not making it past the prelims this year, their premiership reign is only on hiatus.

So, for now, fans just want to see consistency.

“I want them to keep doing what they’re doing,” Strathdee declared.

“Everyone knows the saying, ‘In Ivan we trust’, and we bloody well do.

“We’ve got to have our lows to get us back up to our highs. If we’re always high, then we don’t get to fight for what we want.”

And while the boys train and fight their way back to another premiership, you can reminisce on four years of victory like Cummins.

“When 2021 happened during lockdown I was literally crying, I had tears streaming down my face,” Cummins remembered.

“I remember Yeoy was being interviewed and he said, ‘I hope you guys are proud of us because we’re proud to represent you’.

“Then obviously in 2022 we were a better team, we were so much better than everybody else. We went to Magic Round that year and we were dominant. I knew we were going to win the comp that year.

“Then in 2023, that Grand Final by Cleary, I still have flashbacks of how I celebrated when he went over for that final game-winning try. Then last year, it was an edge-of-your-seat Grand Final. Each year has been different.”

Penrith are extraordinarily proud of their team and can’t wait to see what their Panthers do next.

Ally Hall chats with Ben Cummins after his trip to Brisbane.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Anthea Strathdee (centre) supporting Panthers.

Brian To’o taking a selfie with Anthea Strathdee.

Super fan Ben Cummins showing off his Panther Pride. Photo: Melinda Jane.

THE BEST IS YET TO COME

Less than five minutes after the Broncos defeated the Panthers 16-14 to progress to the NRL Grand Final, Penrith co-captain Isaah Yeo was asked a question by ABC radio that was just waiting to be asked.

“So, is this the end of the Penrith era?”

Yeo didn’t have to think long to reply.

“End of an era, I don’t know [about that],” Yeo said.

“We’ve still got so much class here, so much youth. There’s still light at the end of the tunnel, Christ we showed some fight throughout the season.”

co-captain Nathan Cleary was asked whether the loss was going to ignite a fire in the belly.

“I think for sure,” Nathan said. “It’s a horrible feeling being knocked out. I haven’t felt it in a while and I definitely don’t want to experience this feeling

with Peter Lang

Less than an hour after Brisbane defeated the Panthers, Penrith coach Ivan Cleary was asked this by a reporter in the post-match press conference: “It’s been an amazing reign; how does it feel now that it’s over?”

“What’s over?” Ivan replied.

“I like to think there’s more in us. Sure, we’re not going to win it this year but we fought back from a poor start which is its own story.

“We made great strides with some young guys this year and the core of this team will be back next year.

“We also have this feeling which we haven’t felt for so long to spur us on.”

Less than five minutes later,

grown a lot, where we’ve all grown [as a team]. We can take that into the offseason and grow even more.

“I’m excited for the future and I wouldn’t say anything is over yet.”

The important point which was emanating from the three leaders of the club, the coach and co-captains, was that nothing was over that the fire in the belly has been well and truly lit for next season.

Behind the scenes things are already changing.

There’ll be some new faces in the coaching staff for the lower grades and new faces in the pathway system as well.

There’s also been a massive clean out of players in the lower grades. Players like Brad Schnieder, Soni Luke, Luke Sommerton, Mavrik Geyer,

David Fale, Daine Laurie have all been let go.

Yes 13 players in total.

New players like the returning Jack Cogger, Warriors prop Tom Ale and second-rower Toby Crosby will join the club along with a host of young up-and-coming teenagers like Cameron Kenaan, Ellyjah Birkenhead, Haami Loza and Keahn Skipps.

Haven’t heard of some of those players? You will in the next two to three years.

Sick and tired of having their junior stocks raided for the last five years, the Panthers have hit back and signed a few good young prospects of their own from other clubs.

Let’s also not forget that the Penrith Jersey Flegg side also made the Grand Final this year and although beaten by the Storm, there’s some serious talent in that Panthers squad.

So anyone asking if the Panthers dynasty is over, need but remember one thing.

It’s not over when you lose, it’s over when you quit.

And I didn’t see any Penrith player out there on Sunday quit anything.

On the contrary, they tried to the end, until they could barely stand. Yes, it’s true the streak may be over… but the dynasty has just begun.

Isaah Yeo and Adam Reynolds. Photo: NRL Photos.

panther rumblings

CLEARY ALL CLASS IN DEFEAT

! Cleary all class: In the darkest moment of his season, Nathan Cleary was still winning over fans. After full-time at Suncorp Stadium last Sunday, Cleary gifted his boots to a youngster in the crowd – and signed plenty of autographs for Penrith and Brisbane fans alike. Cleary’s growth not only as a player but as a man and icon of the game has been enormous during this Premiership run.

! Dinner to launch season: Penrith will ramp up their traditional season launch next year, turning it into a major dinner to celebrate the club’s 60th anniversary. As I’ve noted previously, the club is very much leaning in to the milestone year next year – using it as an opportunity to celebrate their history.

! Spotted: Indi Cleary supporting her brother Jett in the NSW Cup Grand Final at CommBank Stadium last Sunday.

! Yeo the chef: He’s not only the best lock in the world, but I’m told Isaah Yeo is quite the whiz in the kitchen. Yeo has been appointed head chef at his household – and doesn’t disappoint with his menu.

! Martin cops fine: Panthers forward Liam Martin has finished the year a little lighter in the hip pocket after being charged out of the clash between Penrith and Brisbane on Sunday. Martin was hit with a grade one Contrary Conduct charge. He submitted an early guilty plea for the incident involving Ezra Mam, and copped a $1000 fine.

! Nine ups Grand Final coverage: It’s not quite ‘The Footy Show’, but Channel Nine has scheduled a lengthy live broadcast tonight ahead of the Grand Final on Sunday. Starting at 7.30pm, James Bracey will host ‘NRL Grand Final Countdown’. James Maloney, the Trbojevic brothers and Keli Holiday are among the guests, along with the captains and coaches of all the

NRL Grand Final teams. It won’t be as good as Fatty and the gang in drag, but it’s good to see Nine back with a big Grand Final lead-in.

! Knickers in a knot: Phil Rothfield’s story about the NRL apparently fuming over Channel Nine offering up plenty of AFL coverage last week was all part of the silly games that surround broadcast deal discussions, which are looming. Anyone with half a brain would accept Nine would cover the biggest sporting event in the country last weekend. They’ll devote plenty of time to NRL coverage this week, as will rival Seven. The story may have had some legs if both Grand Finals were on the

same weekend but given it was a Grand Final versus two Preliminary Finals, the NRL nor the Telegraph have much to whinge about.

! Legends on call: Two Panthers legends in the shape of Darryl Brohman and Mark Geyer will form part of the commentary team on 2GB for the Grand Final on Sunday night. Brohman will call the Storm v Broncos showdown alongside Mark Levy on the Continuous Call Team, with Geyer providing special comments. Brohman and Geyer will also be out at Olympic Park on Saturday afternoon where 2GB is broadcasting live from The Locker Room hotel.

! Gower’s media presence: Penrith’s 2003 Premiership winning halfback Craig Gower has primarily worked outside of rugby league since retiring. But he’s started to dabble in more media work this year – becoming a regular on ‘NRL 360’. He also popped up on the 2GB Continuous Call Team last weekend to preview the Panthers v Broncos Preliminary Final. Perhaps we’ll see more of Gowie in 2026.

! Spotted: One Penrith business taking Sunday’s loss to Brisbane rather well.

! Panthers lose Henry: The very talented Henry Ward – the man behind so many of those Panthers hype videos and the two incredible documentaries post the 2022 and 2023 Premierships – has departed the club. Ward set the bar extremely high with the work he produced and will certainly be missed around the Panthers.

! See you next week: While the Weekender’s rugby league coverage in its usual format is now done for the year, I’ll still be pumping out columns every week for at least a good chunk of the summer. See you next Thursday.

Nathan Cleary.

THE END IS NOWHERE IN SIGHT

troy dodds

Weekender Editor

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary had the best possible answer when asked about the supposed end of his team’s NRL dynasty.

“What’s over?” he replied sharply, before declaring there was plenty left in this team.

Sitting next to him in the press conference after last Sunday’s loss to Brisbane was his son and co-captain, Nathan Cleary.

He was asked if the pain of losing the Preliminary Final was eased by the fact he had four Premiership rings waiting in his drawer at home.

“It’s just as hollow. It’s not nice,” he said.

The press conference lasted less than 10 minutes but it said all it needed to say about where this Penrith team is headed.

And it’s certainly not further down the ladder.

If you ever doubted the hunger this Penrith team has to win more titles, it was completely brushed away by the Clearys.

They want to win more.

They will win more.

In fact there is every reason to believe Penrith should be Premiership favourites next season.

Of the 17 players who took the field against the Broncos on Sunday, only Brad Schneider won’t be there next year.

Jack Cogger will come in as a replacement, and that’s certainly no negative impact for Penrith.

Waiting outside of that 17 is the likes of Luron Patea and Tom Jenkins, ready for huge seasons if given the opportunity.

For the first time in a long time, there is no key name leaving the Panthers this year.

No question marks over how the side will perform without Stephen Crichton, James Fisher-Harris, Viliame Kikau or Jarome Luai.

Just a refreshed Panthers side, hungry to return to the greatest stage.

At some point next year, the contracts of Ivan and Nathan Cleary will become the biggest talking points in rugby league.

Unless the club can get a deal done in the off-season, talk about Nathan’s future in particular will only intensify, given he can talk to other clubs next November.

Of course, he can talk to other codes sooner.

He is off-contract at the end of 2027.

The irony of last Sunday’s loss is that it may help Penrith’s quest to re-sign the father and son duo who have delivered so much for Penrith.

The hunger in their eyes following last Sunday’s loss suggested there is far more for them to achieve at the foot of the Mountains.

Had they made another Grand Final and won

another Premiership, as good as it would have been, it may have only provided food for thought about looking for challenges elsewhere.

Everywhere you look, the long game wins out of the 2025 season’s results.

There is no way in the world Penrith’s dynasty is over.

Heck, we may not have even seen the best of Nathan Cleary yet and he is the best player in the competition.

Too many people are confusing not winning a fifth straight Grand Final with the end of a dynasty.

Don’t be silly.

The dynasty is simply on hold.

Normal programming resumes in 2026.

Nathan and Ivan Cleary. Photo: NRL Photos.

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grand final preview

Tthe finalword

he 2025 NRL season reaches its conclusion on Sunday with the Melbourne Storm taking on the Brisbane Broncos.

Craig Bellamy in his 11th Grand Final, leading the Premiership favourites to Sydney after proving too good for Cronulla in last Friday’s Preliminary Final.

Michael Maguire bound for the decider in his first year, leaving egg on the face of some of those Brisbane old boys who couldn’t cop his appointment late last year.

This is an intriguing Grand Final, but there is no question that Melbourne have the clear advantage here.

Sure, there’s the fact that the Storm have had an extra two days of preparation for the big game – that is clearly something the NRL needs to alter next season.

But there’s a long history here too.

Since 1998, the Storm and Broncos have met on 59 occasions and the Storm have won 43, with one draw and Brisbane grabbing just 15 victories.

But some would argue those statistics are thrown out the window in a Grand Final. The only 80 minutes that matter will be the ones that start at 7.30pm on Sunday night.

Brisbane’s chances here may come down to two men: Payne Haas and Reece Walsh.

The cornerstone of Brisbane’s pack, Haas played plenty of minutes against Penrith last week and if he produces a five-star performance, the Broncos will be difficult to hold back.

Meantime if Grand Finals are all about moments, then we know Walsh is made for such occasions – and with the pain of 2023 still in the back of his mind, he’ll be looking

to deliver something special and provide the Grand Final’s biggest talking points.

Still, I find it hard to go past Melbourne. They are just a machine, they strangle you out of games and rarely hand the momentum to you. You have to work hard for it and I’m not sure Brisbane will be able to grind with them all the way.

Brisbane let both Canberra and Penrith build huge leads and were fortunate to run them both down in the second half. They may not get the same chance against Melbourne, who rarely surrender leads.

The Broncos seemed to give Penrith space last week, perhaps Pat Carrigan being missing hurt their line speed or perhaps it was a tactic to try to play the game on their own terms.

Regardless, I wouldn’t be giving Melbourne that much space to move this week – I’d be

aiming to shut them down at every opportunity and own the field position battle.

Grand Finals are largely won in the days before kick-off. The team who prepares better, the team who handles the pressure better usually wins.

In all of the talk this year we’ve forgotten that Melbourne lost a Grand Final last year and would be absolutely burning in their mission for redemption.

It’s fitting perhaps that the two sides Penrith beat in the last two Grand Finals now face-off against each other.

So who gets the silver medal?

Melbourne just have too much class, and I reckon they may just run away with things in the second half.

Still, it’ll be a cracker.

Tip: Storm by 16.

Reece Walsh and Jahrome Hughes. Photos: NRL Photos.

ASHLEY KLEIN

grand final news

ATKINS TO REFEREE FIRST DECIDER

Grant Atkins will referee the NRL Grand Final for the first time.

He is the first Penrith Referees’ Association member to control a Grand Final.

Atkins will have the whistle for the showdown between Brisbane and Melbourne at Accor Stadium, with Chris Sutton and David Munro as touch judges, and Ashley Klein in the Bunker.

“It’s something you strive to achieve for a long time so now the week’s here it’s a matter of soaking it in,” Atkins said.

“There are so many times where there is disappointment within officiating and moments that you miss out. There’s never really that winning feeling because there’s no result on a scoreboard however you know all the hard work you put in.

“Your family knows that, your friends know that and it’s a nice acknowledgement for all the effort you made and your willingness to turn up every weekend knowing that last

weekend or any other weekend in your career would’ve been one that would’ve been easy to walk away from.”

Penrith Referees’ Association

President Gary Haines, who has known Atkins since he was a teenager, said he was proud to see the 43-year-old former McCarthy Catholic College teacher officiate on the grandest stage.

“The Association extends its congratulations to Grant on his appointing to the NRL Grand Final this Sunday,” he told the Weekender

“It is a first for Grant and an honour after nearly 30 years and finally achieving his boyhood dream.

“He is highly respected by his peers and players throughout the rugby league community and a role model for young aspiring referees.”

Belinda Sharpe will referee the NRLW decider between the Roosters and Broncos, with Ethan

and

Grant Atkins will referee the Grand Final.

Klein

Rochelle Tamarua running the line and Chris Butler in the Bunker.

state championship WARRIORS RIDING WAVE OF SUCCESS

The Cleary surname will continue to feature on Grand Final Day, with Ivan Cleary’s youngest son Jett Cleary set to line-up for the NSW Cup-winning New Zealand Warriors against the QLD Cup-winning Burleigh Bears in the 2025 NRL State Championship.

The NRL State Championship will be the first match played on Sunday afternoon, with the Premiers of the NSW Cup and QLD Cup competitions doing battle to determine the National Reserve Grade Champions.

The Warriors – who defeated St George Illawarra 30-12 last Sunday at CommBank Stadium – will play in their first State Championship game, while the Bears – who were too good for the Norths Devils 22-8 at Dolphins Stadium – will compete in their third State

Championship decider.

While the Panthers won’t feature on the first Sunday in October for the first time since 2019, there will be plenty of Penrith flavour in the match.

Warriors half Jett Cleary not only grew up in the Penrith area before moving to Auckland this year, but he also did his entire schooling at St Dominic’s College in Kingswood.

Fellow Warriors half Luke Hanson is also a former St Dominic’s student, graduating in 2021.

For the Bears, a player with a familiar surname, Cole Geyer, will have his eye on another piece of silverware this Sunday afternoon. The rugged hooker is the nephew of Penrith legend Mark Geyer and the cousin of departing Panthers backrower Mavrik Geyer.

The New Zealand Warriors will go into this Sunday’s game against Burleigh as red-hot favourites after blitzing the NSW Cup regular season.

The Warriors won the Minor Premiership with a whopping nine-point advantage over the Dragons, collecting 21 wins, one draw and two losses.

The victory was huge for the Auckland-based club as it marked the first time the Warriors had clinched a senior premiership in their 30-year history.

The Bears also enjoyed a Minor Premiership-winning season, topping the QLD Cup table with 15 wins, one draw and four losses.

Burleigh have won five QLD Cup titles since they entered the competition in 1997.

If you haven’t sold your tickets and you’re still heading to Grand Final Day this Sunday, make sure you arrive early to catch the New Zealand Warri ors as they take on the Burleigh Bears in the NRL State Cham pionship at Accor Stadium. Kick-off is at 1.20pm.

Former St Dominic’s College students Luke Hanson and Jett Cleary will play for the Warriors against the Bears this Sunday afternoon. NATHAN

nrlw grand final

GOLIATHS BATTLE IT OUT IN SYDNEY

For the third time in NRLW history, the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos will do battle on Grand Final Day.

The two glamour clubs first met back in 2018 – the inaugural year of the NRLW competition – before playing another Grand Final together in 2020.

On the first two occasions, the Broncos were crowned Premiers, however the Roosters have the slight edge on the Queenslanders this season after winning the Minor Premiership.

The Roosters are also chasing back-to-back rings this Sunday after defeating the Cronulla Sharks in a thriller last year.

Speaking after her side’s 17-16 win over the Sharks in Gosford last Saturday night, Roosters captain Isabelle Kelly said every time she reaches a Grand Final, it feels just as special as the last.

“I think every time is very unique within itself because we’ve got a few girls that have come to our team and a few girls playing in different positions,” Kelly said.

“There’s something really special about this year and I can’t quite talk about it too much in words because I think it’s something that we feel instead of talk about, but I’m so proud to be the captain of this team.”

The Broncos reached this Sunday’s decider after taking care of the Newcastle Knights 30-6 last Sunday at Suncorp Stadium.

After the game, Broncos coach Scott Prince said he was over the moon to be taking the

“I’m

we

to get over that hump,” he said.

“We’ve been faced with the same position the last two years and we knew that it was going to take a mean effort to get there, and I’m just very

this

The Roosters are aiming for a slice of history this Sunday, hoping to equal the men’s

premiership record of 19 consecutive wins. However, despite their dominance in the competition, the Broncos are favourites with the bookmakers for Sunday’s Grand Final. Whatever happens on Sunday, the 2025 NRLW Grand Final is expected to be a beauty! The action kicks off at Accor Stadium at 4pm.

Broncos to a Grand Final for first time since 2020.

very happy and proud of the girls’ efforts, we’re just happy

proud of the girls and their efforts today. I just feel like, at the moment, there’s some unfinished business. Even though

will celebrate

win, but come Monday, Tuesday, we’ll prepare for the Roosters.”

The Brisbane Broncos looking relaxed at training on Tuesday. Photo: NRL Photos.

NATHAN TAYLOR

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grand final playlist

YOUR GAME DAY TUNES SORTED

Are you holding a Grand Final Day BBQ or party this Sunday? We’ve got the music sorted. Here’s your Western Weekender 2025 Grand Final Day playlist...

Hells Bells – AC/DC

Tubthumping – Chumbawamba

Bound For Glory – Angry Anderson

Khe Sanh – Cold Chisel

Two Strong Hearts – John Farnham (Simply) The Best – Jimmy Barnes, Tina Turner

Glory Days – Bruce Springsteen

But I Got A Beer In My Hand – Luke Bryan

Have You Ever Seen The Rain – Creedence

Clearwater Revival

Miles On It – Kane Brown

I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen

A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey

We Can’t Be Beaten – Rose Tattoo

Pressure Down – John Farnham

Beer Never Broke My Heart – Luke Combs

Cruise – Florida Georgia Line

This Bar – Morgan Wallen

Chicken Fried – Zac Brown Band

Day Drunk – Morgan Evans

You’re The Voice – John Farnham

Mix ‘Em With Whiskey – Larry Fleet

Holy Grail – Hunters & Collectors

Joker And The Thief – Wolfmother

Heaven – Kane Brown

Cherry, Cherry – Neil Diamond

Whiskey Glasses – Morgan Wallen

Thank God – Kane Brown, Katelyn Brown

Austin – Dasha

Last Night – Morgan Wallen

Red Dirt Road – Brooks & Dunn

Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi

Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Hurts So Good – John Mellancamp

American Pie – Don McLean

Joker And The Thief – Wolfmother

Better Be Home Soon – Crowded House

Working Class Man – Jimmy Barnes

Over and Over – Nelly, Tim McGraw 1, 2 Many – Luke Combs

Hot In Here – Nelly

Looking At Me – Sabrina Carpenter

Gangsta’s Paradise – Coolio

Let’s Get It Started – Black Eyed Peas

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton

Hurricane – Luke Combs

Tina Turner.

Post Malone.

Jimmy Barnes.

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