Western Weekender October 30 2025

Tributes flow for Kevin following sad passing

Kevin Crameri, the long-time local Councillor and fierce advocate for Penrith’s rural areas, has died.

He passed away peacefully on Saturday morning after a three-year battle with cancer, surrounded by family.

The vocal Independent was first elected to Council in 1974, serving one term before returning for three consecutive terms from 1987 until 1999.

He returned to Council in 2004 for what would become a 20-year stint, ending his 50-year local government career last year.

Even battling illness in his final years on Council, he was determined to stand up against the major political parties and advocate for areas such as Llandilo and Londonderry, which he was fiercely passionate about.

He fought for things that often do not grab the headlines: tarring roads to people’s driveways, better drainage and flood prevention.

Crameri served as Mayor of Penrith in 19961997 and again from 2009-2011.

Ironically, one of the most storied local government careers in Penrith’s history started by accident.

“I was tricked into it!” Crameri told the Weekender last year.

“I am glad I got tricked into it because then I was able to make a lot of difference for the community.”

Crameri’s family has thanked those who supported the long-time local resident through his health battle.

“We would like to say a special thank you to all the amazing staff at Nepean Hospital Cancer Care Centre, Mt Druitt Emergency Department, Mount Druitt Hospital Supportive and Palliative Care Unit and all of his other treating health professionals for their support during this challenging time,” the family said in a statement.

“We would also like to thank the entire Penrith community for all the support of Kevin for his time serving as a Councillor on Penrith City Council.”

There were numerous tributes to Crameri at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Monday, including a minute of silence, but he will be honoured in more depth with a Mayoral Minute at an upcoming Ordinary Meeting.

“If anyone thinks one Councillor can’t make a difference, I think Kevin is the Councillor

who would have proved them all wrong,” veteran Councillor John Thain said.

“Kevin was passionate, he was persistent, and he stuck up for his community, particularly rural communities.”

Councillor Ross Fowler, who served with Crameri for many years, also paid his respects, describing Crameri as a “stalwart” for the community.

“Kevin will certainly be missed within his community at Llandilo,” Fowler said.

“He was a stalwart of what everything rural and everything local was about. He supported everything that he could and was particularly passionate about his town hall, the Llandilo Community Hall.

“Kevin was passionate, he was persistent, and he stuck up for his community”

“He will be very much missed, and the community of Penrith has lost a stalwart in dedication and passion.”

Independent Councillor Sue Day spoke through tears as she remembered Crameri. “Kevin was a community champion. He showed up, he stood up, and he spoke up for his community,” Day said.

“He was also my friend; I will miss him.”

Independent Councillor Glenn Gardiner, who had Crameri run second on his ticket in last year’s local government election, reflected on his commitment to the community.

“I find the three words to describe him best are highly resilient, highly passionate and also pragmatic. It really goes to everything that Kevin has done over the years,” he said.

“He was not content with retirement, he was not content with the idea of stopping, he was not content with the idea of slowing down… Just 10 days ago Kevin chaired a meeting for the Llandilo Community Association. That’s what he was doing two weeks ago. There was no stopping, he was committed to the community, and he was committed to what he deemed and what he found to be important.”

Kevin Crameri will be farewelled at a service next Wednesday, November 5 at 2.15pm at North Chapel, Pinegrove Memorial Park.

Kevin Crameri served on Penrith City Council for decades. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Kevin Crameri was a huge advocate for rural communities.

TROY DODDS AND EMILY CHATE

the western weekender

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Iwonder if there’s some sort of inter-office competition within the walls of Parliament House in Sydney and Canberra about how many times the words ‘western Sydney’ can be uttered in the space of a year.

And I wonder if politicians actually believe that trying to prove they’re all out there working to make the lives of us westies better is winning votes and support, or if it’s just become so ingrained in them that they don’t even notice it?

Despite how connected Sydney has now become, western Sydney is still seen as some sort of island by many of our leaders.

And it extends to broader society as well. So ingrained has talking about western Sydney like it’s another planet become, that other Sydneysiders believe it too.

You’d only live in the west if you’re a battler, seems to be the belief.

If you had the money and means to live elsewhere, you would, apparently.

It’s why those pollies are always talking about needing to work for those poor souls in western Sydney.

I was at a house party in St Clair recently and one of my friend’s colleagues from the city (Newtown, to be more precise) made the arduous trek along the M4 to join the celebrations.

He arrived with a canteen of water, a physical map and rations of food just in case he got lost along the way.

Not really, but you get the point.

He was genuinely surprised when his Google Maps told him it’d only take 38 minutes from door to door. After all, he often spends that same amount of time commuting on a bus from Newtown into the CBD.

And as the night went on, you could kind of tell this guy was warming to this faraway land he’d mainly heard about on news bulletins or from those aforementioned politicians telling him how hard they were working for us out here.

A three bedroom house with a yard and a swimming pool was a little different to his one-bedder above a shop in King Street.

Western Sydney has changed a lot over the years.

It’s shifted significantly from the rough and

tumble days of the 1980s and 1990s, where much of its reputation was built, though perceptions from outside, and from our pollies, haven’t really changed.

It’s not helped all that much by the mainstream media either.

With so many broadcasters and journalists based in the city, they barely know the western Sydney they speak of so regularly.

Western Sydney’s evolution has seen significant pockets of affluence develop.

People live in beautiful homes.

Hospitality and dining options have grown up and evolved significantly.

Parks are far more that a slippery dip and an old rusty swing.

The west has become a place people want to live, not have to.

“They barely know the western Sydney they speak of so regularly”

So it’s time the rest of Sydney woke up to this too.

We aren’t just sweltering bogans out here good for a 6pm news cross in summer.

We’re smart people.

We’re business leaders.

And in a lot of cases, we’re doing OK.

Sure, there’s plenty of people out here on struggle street.

And there’s parts of western Sydney that the rejuvenation I speak of hasn’t quite reached yet.

But we don’t need to be treated like some sort of second class citizens.

Politicians don’t need to desperately find a way to include the words “western Sydney” in their press releases or media conferences.

Not when the topic actually impacts all of Sydney but you just think that the words “western Sydney” make you look good.

We need to shift the narrative.

People in western Sydney succeeding is not surprising, it is normal.

People choosing to build their lives here, and being happy, is indeed expected, not a shock.

People in western Sydney enjoying what it has to offer is not forced, it is natural.

We have two problems.

The first is that the people talking about western Sydney the most are generally not from here.

In other words, it’s all hot air from outsiders who are trying to convince of us something most of us already know: the west is great.

The other problem is the apathetic attitudes that still exist amongst some here in western Sydney.

They are the ones hanging on to the stereotype or perhaps believing that they are not worthy of enjoyment.

You only have to look at the narks who hate Penrith Beach to know that these people will just never be happy.

It’s not enough to just say Pondi isn’t your cup of tea and move on. They have to find something wrong with it.

It’s a self-loathing that western Sydney should have ridded itself of long ago.

Thankfully, most of it has.

The reality is western Sydney has grown up, matured and has everything at its feet.

There was a feeling back in the day that people in the west were missing out.

It’s the stereotype so many still believe.

The truth is western Sydney has changed so much that it is actually the rest of Sydney that is missing out these days.

We now have everything we need, and yet we still have the space, community and time to breathe that we always did.

When I left high school, I reckon half my graduating class was desperate to leave Penrith. Nothing here for them, they thought.

Fast forward 20 years and so many of them are back, not because they had to be but because they realise the green wasn’t actually all that greener.

The west was emerging back then and now it’s arrived.

Everyone else is just playing catch-up.

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

Begging for connection

EMILY CHATE

The road promised to residents in Jordan Springs East remains in limbo six years after it was supposed to be completed.

The Jordan Springs East West Connector Road between Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing was originally guaranteed by developer Lendlease to be opened by December 2019 but it remains closed, leaving residents fuming.

“To put it into perspective, it’s going to take longer than Sydney’s second airport to get built,” concerned resident Jeff Pegg said.

“Now, no matter what happens, that road will take longer than Badgerys Creek will take to go from paddock to planes… It’s been going since 2019.

“Residents used to get updates from Lendlease with new expected dates but that ceased in 2023.”

Developer Lendlease explained they are currently looking for a contractor to begin work on the first stage of completing the road but gave no indication of when the road will be delivered.

“We understand and share the urgency with the community to have this critical piece of infrastructure delivered as quickly as possi-

ble,” a Lendlease spokesperson told the Weekender

“We’ve made progress with receiving construction approvals and are currently out to tender for a contractor for the bulk earthworks, the first stage in building the road.”

Penrith City Council confirmed they have provided the appropriate approvals for the completion of the road to Lendlease, but work remains incomplete.

“Council remains frustrated that

Lendlease is yet to construct the Connector Road in Jordan Springs East,” a spokesperson for Penrith City Council said.

“As the delivery of the Connector Road is a priority, Council, through current development approvals, has required Lendlease to deliver the road before it can create any new residential lots.

“Council has also provided Lendlease with approval for the earthworks needed for the connec-

tor road, however Lendlease is yet to complete these works.”

Of major concern to residents in the area is that the new public high school will open in the area in 2027, bringing in more traffic, but without the Connector Road it will create a bottleneck in peak times.

“The massive concern is that high school is guaranteed to open in Term 1, 2027 and it is the reason everyone is staying in Jordan Springs East. If I heard of a potential delay for that

high school, our house would be for sale that evening, as would every other one in three…” Pegg said.

“The drive from Ropes Crossing to the school would be about 90 seconds through the Connector Road, going all the way around in peak hour traffic you are looking at 25 minutes each way.”

There remains no fixed timeline for the delivery of the East West Connector Road, six years on from its original open date.

The Connector Road remains unopen for residents use. Photo: Melinda Jane.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Werrington: Disqualified driver caught driving drunk

At 9.30pm on Tuesday, October 21, police were driving on Victoria Street in Werrington when they saw a car perform a U-turn over double white lines.

Police stopped the car and spoke with the driver, a 26-year-old Cambridge Park woman.

She told police she held a disqualified class P driver’s licence. The 26-year-old was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where she underwent a breath analysis test, which returned a positive reading of 0.016.

The woman was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on December 18.

St Marys: Three people caught stealing copper wiring

At 7pm on Friday, October 24, police saw several people in an empty property on Queen Street in St Marys. Police saw the three people had a car with a trailer attached to it in the rear area of the property. Police entered the property and located a 38-yearold Oxley Park man, his 31-year-old partner and a 58-year-old man.

The three people were believed to be cutting up copper wiring and removing metal from a veranda on the property. Police located drugs, including cannabis and a bolt cutter, on the three people.

Their vehicle was searched and police found more bolt cutters, a saw, spanners, angle grinder, a utility knife and a black mesh bag in the rear passenger seat containing a silver imitation pistol.

The 38-year-old man and his 31-year-old partner were charged, bail refused and appeared in Penrith Local Court on Monday.

The 58-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

Penrith: Man denies knowledge of cannabis found in car

At 9.30pm on Friday, October 24, police stopped a car on Derby Street and spoke with the driver, a 31-year-old Campbelltown man. As police were speaking with the driver, they believed they could smell cannabis.

A breath test returned a negative result; however, numerous pre-rolled cannabis type cigarettes and cannabis buds were located on the 31-year-old as well as in the car’s centre console.

A police dog assisted in locating jars containing cannabis in a cooler bag inside the car. On the rear floor of the car, police found more cannabis and a considerable amount of cash in a plastic bag. The cash was in bundles of $50 and $100 notes.

The 31-year-old denied knowledge about any of the cannabis that was found in the car. He was arrested and had his two phones seized. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, November 18.

St Marys: Man refuses to comply with move on direction

At 10.40pm on Friday, October 24, a 25-year-old St Marys man was issued a move-on direction from a licenced premises in St Marys due to being overly intoxicated and disorderly. During this interaction, the 25-year-old was aggressive and non-compliant with police. He eventually complied and left the vicinity.

About an hour later, police were called to St Marys Train Station and found the same 25-year-old behaving aggressively and being abusive towards railway staff.

The man was given another move on direction where became confrontational and failed to comply with the direction.

The 25-year-old was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged. He will appear in court on November 3.

Kingswood: Man steals car from car yard, later leads police on pursuit

On Thursday, October 16, a 46-year-old Chester Hill man has attended a business in Granville where he took a red Ford Raptor for a test drive. The man did not return to the business, and the car was listed as stolen.

On Thursday, October 23, the 46-year-old man was arrested and charged in relation to the stolen Ford Raptor and other traffic matters. The car remained outstanding as the man refused to tell police its whereabouts.

On Sunday, October 26, at 9.50am police were patrolling Second Avenue in Kingswood when they saw the car displaying licence plates that were different to the stolen Ford Ranger.

As police approached the Raptor, it has taken off. Police pursued the car through Caddens, where it drove over temporary fencing to a closed road and back onto the roadway.

The pursuit continued at dangerous speeds through Erskine Park to Kemps Creek where other Police Area Commands where notified.

At this stage, POLAIR took over the pursuit.

At an intersection in Cabramatta, the Ford Raptor collided with another car and hit a power pole, rendering the car undriveable.

The 46-year-old and the passenger, a 40-yearold woman, fled the scene. The pair were tracked by POLAIR and arrested.

The pair were bail refused.

LAST CHANCE TO BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Each year at the end of October we write a column reminding our readers that there is only about six weeks left until the end of the working year.

Conveyancing and law firms will shut up shop on or about December 20, 2024 and reopen in the second or third week of January.

Usually this means that settlements of property transactions cannot take place during this closure period so if you are looking to buy or sell a property and settle the transaction prior to Christmas now is the time to act because time is running out.

The rapid approach of Christmas coincides with spring which often sees a glut of properties come onto the market as the weather warms up, yards and gardens start to look fantastic, and people are ready to hit the open home circuit.

Here are some tips if you are thinking about buying or selling in the next few weeks:

Selling:

1. Talk to your real estate agent about small changes you can make to your property that might make a difference during inspections. This might be fixing minor issues like loose door handles, cracked windows, or patching up a hole in the wall that you have been meaning to get to for some time. Neat and tidy properties that present well attract the most offers as people’s first impression of your property is what they see when they walk through the front door.

2. Do not tie yourself to a particular sale price. Your real estate agent has probably advised you of a range in which the price you receive for your property is likely to fall. It is unwise to mentally commit to the top end of the range and have that inform your decision making in terms of your next step, such as buying a new property. If you are selling to buy, you need to plan ahead by factoring in a sale price at the low end of the range as well as the top end of the range and speaking with your mortgage broker about how your sale price will affect how much money you can borrow and in turn the

price you can afford to pay for your next property.

3. T hink about the logistics of settlement. On the settlement day, you need to give the property to your buyer empty (unless it is an investment property that you have a tenant in). This means not only removing all of your furniture and personal belongings but other moveable items such as old timber down the side of the house, broken bricks under the house, used tins of paint and stuff you haven’t seen for years.

Buying:

1. Your first step is to make sure you have spoken with your mortgage broker and have a pre-approval in place so you understand how much money you are able to borrow which will inform the maximum amount you can offer on a property you want to buy. It is no secret that interest rates increased rapidly in 2022 and there is still a hangover effect of that because people cannot borrow as much money as they used to. Make sure you have spoken to your mortgage broker before you hit the open home circuit.

2. W hen you go to an open home or a private inspection, look closely at the property. While you will have an opportunity to get a pest and building report, you need to make sure you are aware of any obvious defects or issues before you formulate your offer. We often say to clients if some things come up in a pest and building report that would have been obvious to you when you formulated your offer it is going to be difficult to negotiate with the seller to rectify it or reduce the price.

3. Have a chat to your solicitor or conveyancer before you start going to open homes, particularly if you are a first home buyer. Buying a property can move at a rapid pace. One minute you are attending an open home and all of a sudden within 24 to 48 hours you have an offer accepted and a real estate agent is asking you to pay a deposit and sign a contract. It is important you understand the process.

PLEDGE TO SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS

Find

MATCHA RANGE NEW

Council identifies six key roads for safety funding

Penrith City Council have nominated six roads across Penrith to receive funding under a Federal Government road safety program.

Available for a limited time at participating restaurants. kJs based on full cream milk. Glasses for display purposes only.Extra charges apply for soy, syrups and other variations. Serving suggestion.

Penrith Councillors at Monday night’s Ordinary meeting endorsed to submit a series of roads to the Australian Government Black Spot Program 2026/27 and 2026/2027 – 2028/29 Towards Zero Safer Roads Program (TZSRP) High Pedestrian Activity Area (HPAA) Sub-Program.

“The Black Spots Program plays a key role in reducing the national road toll as part of the National Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan,” the Council report said.

“It provides financial support to implement safety treatments and reduce injuries and fatalities at locations where there is a history of casualty crashes occurring, or where there is a risk of crashes occurring.

The Black Spot Program is fully funded by the Australian Government and administered by Transport for NSW (TfNSW).”

Council used recorded crash analysis data provided by TfNSW to identify six sites across the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA), including Glenmore Parkway between Surveyors Creek Road and St Andrews

Drive; Somerset Street between Rodgers Street and Derby Street, Kingswood; River Road between Great Western Highway and Lapstone Place; Smith Street, between Stone Street and Racecourse Road and Racecourse Road, between Jamison Road and Batt Street; Forrester Road, between Catalina Street and Griffiths Street, and Jordan Springs Centre.

“Based on strategic cost estimates prepared at the time of writing this report, the six proposed projects across both grant programs total circa $6.5 million investment in road safety initiatives,” the Council report said.

“Council will not face any financial implications as these programs are supported by Federal and State Government grant funds, and no financial contribution is required from Council.”

Penrith City Council will now make their submission to receive the grant funding.

The suggested safety improvements for these streets includes the installation of safety barriers, raised threshold pedestrian (wombat) crossings, supplementary signage, line marking, median islands, pedestrian fencing, median island stop treatment, street lighting, and the installation of traffic control signals. The cost to complete all the listed safety improvements is estimated to be over $6 million.

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EMILY CHATE

Penrith Council has submitted Somerset Street for upgrades. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Racecourse Road. Photo: Melinda Jane.

SUMMER CLUB ☀

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 3 November – 7pm (Extraordinary Meeting) Online via

penrith.city.council

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Council Briefs

● Bring your bike along for a free 15-minute tune-up by Revolve Recycling mechanics (bookings essential). Don’t need a tune-up? Simply drop off unwanted bikes for reuse or recycling. Good-quality bikes will be repaired and redeployed, while unrepairable ones will be repurposed into playground equipment, bike lanes and asphalt—keeping them out of

• Werrington: Saturday 1 November, 9am–12pm at The Kingsway Playing Fields

For more information, visit

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

● Applications are now open to sponsor and be part of Culture Fusion 2026, Council’s latest multicultural event! Culture Fusion celebrates our community’s diverse culture, offering a weekend of powerful performances, spectacular stalls, wonderful workshops and tasty treats from across the world on Saturday 21 February and Sunday 22 February 2026 in St Marys.

Boost your brand, engage with the community, and help build a more inclusive society with a variety of sponsorship packages for your business or organisation to be present at Culture Fusion.

We are also looking for cultural market stalls, talented cultural performers/models and local food vendors to be part of Culture Fusion too!

Find out more about our sponsorship opportunities and expressions of interest at Applications close Sunday 14 December 2025.

● Council is planning for the future of Kingswood and Werrington. These areas are key centres within Penrith’s East-West Corridor, which is set to grow with more people and jobs over the next 20 years.

needed to make these great places to live, work and visit. We want to know what you already like about Kingswood and Werrington, and what you want to see change in future.

You can share your feedback until Thursday 13 November 2025.

● Penrith City Council has launched the 2025 Visitor Guide –a vibrant showcase of everything our City has to offer. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or hosting guests, the guide is packed with themed itineraries and local insights to help you explore Penrith’s diverse attractions.

precincts and family-friendly fun, it’s your go-to resource for discovering positively adventurous Penrith.

Grab a copy at the Penrith Civic Centre or download it online at

Public Notices

Draft Planning Agreement for 262 Caddens Road, Claremont Meadows

Penrith City Council is publicly notifying a draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Council and Mark Ventures Pty Ltd.

The draft VPA has been prepared in connection with approved development application DA22/0835. The development is located at 262–274 Caddens Road, Claremont Meadows.

The draft VPA facilitates the dedication of 1.34 hectares of land acquisition under the Claremont Meadows Development Contributions Plan (CP). In addition to the land dedication, the proponent will undertake establishment works in accordance with a Vegetation Management Plan (VMP), maintain these works for 12 months and provide a monetary maintenance program.

A copy of the draft VPA and explanatory note can be viewed online at

Thursday 27 November 2025. Submissions must be received by 5pm on Thursday 27 November 2025.

For enquiries: Please contact Claudia Amendolia, Planner on 4732 7632 or email

Draft Amendment to Voluntary Planning

Penrith City Council is publicly notifying a draft deed of variation (the Deed) to amend the Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Council and LegPro Orchard Hills (known as Legacy Property).

The Deed has been prepared in connection with approved development applications DA24/0085. The development is located within the Orchard Hills North Precinct, fronting Caddens and Kingswood Road and is subject to Penrith Local Environmental Plan 2010 (Amendment No. 29) which took effect on 1 October 2023.

The Deed seeks to amend the VPA to facilitate the delivery of Orchard Hills North Contributions Plan (OHN CP) to support approved development application (DA) 24/0085, known as stage 3.

A copy of the draft VPA and explanatory note can be viewed online at

Thursday 27 November 2025. Submissions must be received by 5pm on Thursday 27 November 2025.

For enquiries: Please contact Claudia Amendolia, Planner on 4732 7632 or email

What kind of shoes do frogs wear? A: Open-toad sandals.

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

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There is everything you need for the ultimate weekend wash and detail. High performance

formulations that maintain the vehicle’s bodywork, windows, wheels and interior while providing long-lasting protection against weather elements. Start with the Autoglym Bucket, the foundation for a proper wash, and pair it with the Microfibre Wash Mitt for a swirl-free clean. Use with Ceramic Wash & Protect; a triple action wash, leaving behind a silky smooth, glossy finish, and ceramic protection for long-lasting results. To finish the job, the Ultra Soft Drying Towel ensures a perfect, lint-free dry.

For added gloss and long-term defence against the elements, Rapid Ceramic Spray provides instant, extra protection, helping water bead off with ease. Wheels and tyres get a showroom finish with Instant Tyre Dressing, leaving them clean, dark, and protected.

The kit also includes Fast Glass, when used with the Hi-Tech Interior Microfibre Cloth (green) it’s Autoglym’s crystal-clear solution for streakfree windows and mirrors. The Hi-Tech Microfibre Finishing Cloth (red) is used to buff Rapid Ceramic Spray. Visit www.autoglym.com.au for more information.

The Weekender has three car care kits to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Car’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Monday, November 10 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

Do you know where

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 yellow coloured kids playground equipment is located at Tench Reserve on the Penrith side of the mighty Nepean River.

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: 0598, 0680, 1265.

HEROES IN A HALF SHELL

Turtles in Penrith can now find sanctuary at Fernhill Estate as an innovative nesting platform has been placed in the site’s Northern Dam.

The platform, dubbed Turtle Island, was officially launched in Mulgoa last Friday ahead of turtle breeding season and will see native turtle species, including the Eastern long-necked turtles, use the platform to lay their clutches out of the reach of foxes.

Feral foxes are a major threat to turtles in Penrith and have severely contributed to the population decline by digging up nests to eat the eggs and preying on female turtles when they are on land.

The Turtle Island is a two-metre floating platform made from building and natural materials that sits on the surface of the water in the Northern Dam.

It is secured in place by anchor ropes and weights and has a lifespan of up to 10 years.

The project is a partnership between Greater Sydney Parklands and Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group, who secured a $24,000 Local Land Services grant for fox management activities.

Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group Coordinator Lisa Harrold was excited to see the launch of the island, saying it will have a major impact on the local turtle population.

“Mulgoa Valley Landcare Group has a long working history with Greater Sydney Park Turtles Community Conservation Program which has successfully installed floating

government area and we’re working to install a second at Nepean Christian School.

with an education tool for native species conservation.”

Greater Sydney Parklands Chief Executive Joshua French said consistent conservation is key to preserving the state’s natural environment.

“Fernhill Estate is a vital ecological and cultural heritage landscape within western Sydney, and initiatives like Turtle Island are part of our broader vision to restore native habitats, protect vulnerable species, and create thriving natural environments for generations to come,” French said.

“We are proud to work with Mulgoa Valley Landcare on this important conservation project.”

On Friday, Western Sydney University (WSU) Professor Ricky Spencer led a group of students from Mulgoa Public School to help him assemble the island before placing it into position in the dam.

WSU Dean of the School of Science Graciela Metternicht and Penrith Mayor Todd Carney were also there for the launch.

“It has been critical to have people like Lisa [Harrold] in the community that actually help,” Carney said.

“Council can’t do everything on our own and it comes down to a lot of great volunteers in our community who actually lend a hand week in, week out, and make sure they look after our environment. It takes a lot of time and effort to do that, but it is really important

To learn more about Turtle Island, visit

local

Western Sydney University Professor Ricky Spencer with the Turtle Island.

Funding boost improves water

The water quality at Penrith Lakes has received a boost as the NSW Government injects nearly $4 million into quality control technology.

In the NSW 2025-26 Budget, $3.95 million was allocated to undertake new water quality improvement measures at the Regatta Centre and Whitewater Stadium areas including ultrasonic technology and stormwater diversion system.

The Penrith Lakes precinct includes 750 hectares of freshwater lakes and features the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium which host approximately 1,700 sporting and community events each year.

The new water quality measures were implemented ahead of the recent International Canoe Federation’s Slalom World Champion-

ships at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, which ran from late September until early October.

The ultrasonic technology uses low-power ultrasound waves to inhibit blue-green algae’s ability to regulate buoyancy causing it to sink to the bottom of the lake where, deprived of sunlight, it cannot photosynthesise and reproduce.

Also installed was a one-kilometre pumping system to divert stormwater entering the Sydney International Regatta Centre into a wetland system to promote natural filtration of water prior to it flowing into the Penrith Lakes system.

“Maintaining water quality in the lakes is an essential focus for the continued enjoyment and safety by our community,” Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown said.

“These are iconic locations

which were prominent during the Sydney 2000 Olympics and recent ICF World Championships.

“It is important that ongoing water quality measures at Penrith Lakes are being supported through agencies including Western Sydney Lakes, the NSW Office of Strategic Lands, the Waste Assets Management Corporation, and the NSW Office of Sport.”

The Penrith Lakes were developed through the rehabilitation of sand and gravel quarries on the Nepean River floodplain creating a series of lakes, wetlands and public recreation spaces.

However, recent years have seen these sites challenged by flooding and runoff from surrounding urban catchments. Stormwater inflows have contributed to a nutrient-rich environment where blue-green algae and other nutrient-loving bacteria are able to grow.

A working group comprising of senior personnel from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Office of Sport and NSW Health were established to monitor and respond to prevailing lake conditions.

Deputy Secretary of Property, Workplace and Development at the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Leon Walker said good water quality at these sites will ensure it remains a major community and tourism hub.

“Penrith Lakes is a key community and environmental asset for western Sydney that balances environmental rehabilitation, recreation, cultural heritage, sustainable urban planning and water management,” Walker said.

“The lakes support a range of activities including boating, rowing, swimming, birdwatching and sporting

Jamison High School Canteen Licence

Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen for the school year commencing on 2 February 2026 for a term of 3 years with an option to renew for 2 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 860.

General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to:

Lorraine Larwood Business Manager 4731 6150 or jamison-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders must be sent electronically and noted in the subject line “Commercial in Confidence - School Canteen Tender” and sent to:

Davide Foti, Principal jamison-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders close at 3pm on 28 November 2025

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

events, so we want to do all we can to keep them healthy and functional.

“Keeping these rehabilitated lands and waterways in good shape will make sure

they continue to prosper as a recreation and tourism hub that can help expand our visitor economy through adventure, sports and outdoor offerings.”

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State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown and Richard Fox.

Locals want more out of Penrith Beach

Penrith Beach – also known as ‘Pondi’ – remains an unlocked jewel in the west, swimming with potential but falling flat for many residents.

“I would prefer to make the trip to a real beach,” said Leonay resident Emma.

Local man Josh agreed.

“If I want to go to the beach, I go to the beach. If I wanted to go to a lake, I’d go to Penrith Beach,” he remarked.

The Castlereagh Road swimming spot first opened for the 2023-24 summer season, attracting 200,000 visitors in its first year. Now, going into its third season, locals want to see more.

“I’ve been there a couple of times; it was great to bring the little one. She loved it because it was nice and shallow,” said South Penrith resident Sophie.

“A café or some kind of food and beverage outlet would be great. There is also no shade there, and it’s really hard to bring out your own shade and build everything up when you have a little one.”

Emu Plains resident Justin opts for a swimming pool during warmer months.

“We haven’t been to Penrith Beach yet. A water park or a playground would make it more

appealing, especially for young families,” he stated.

When the Weekender made a call-out on social media for ideas on how to improve Penrith Beach, the community answered with fervour.

In coming years, locals hope to see cafes and food trucks at the site, a reinstated shuttle bus service, options for shade, a water sport hire shop, picnic tables and barbecue facilities, a waterpark and playground, floating pontoons, a dog-friendly section, a wave pool, better turning lanes into the facility, and most importantly, extended hours and a longer season.

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce President Richard Fox advised that there is a longterm vision for Penrith Beach on the Western Sydney Lakes website.

“It shows a pavilion which would work as a haven for people at the beach, and there is scope for boardwalks, decking and restaurants,” the President stated.

“In the shorter-term, a lot of people would like to see easier, longer access. When you go to a beach anywhere in Australia, you can just go. It doesn’t matter if it’s the middle of the night or early in the morning, beachgoers can be there for sunrise and sunset when it’s cooler and they swim freely in those conditions with precautions.

“I think once the ownership is passed on, or even during the temporary management by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, they should listen to the call for longer opening hours.”

In the meantime, until shortterm and long-term plans come to fruition, Fox is grateful for what we already have.

“Anything is better than nothing, and Penrith Beach is heading in the right direction,” Fox said.

“I know a lot of people question the water quality, but it’s very good. The beach wouldn’t open if it wasn’t passing stringent water quality tests, so the water is as good as anything that we’ve seen for people bathing around Sydney – if not better.

“It’s a beautiful, natural environment and we encourage people to make the most of it.”

Penrith Beach’s opening date for the 2025-26 season is yet to be announced.

Sophie and her daughter.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

Josh. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Emma. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Justin and his daughter. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Penrith Beach. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ALLY HALL

Work underway on palliative care unit

Construction has commenced on the new dedicated Palliative Care Unit at Nepean Hospital.

CPB Contractors, the main works contractor currently delivering the more than $1 billion Nepean Hospital Redevelopment, has been engaged to build the new palliative care unit as an integrated fit-out within the new Nepean Hospital Stage 2 building.

“The new Palliative Care Unit at Nepean Hospital will give people more choice to receive care at the end of their life closer to home,” said State Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown.

The Stage 2 upgrade of Nepean Hospital, including the palliative care unit, is expected to be completed late next year.

UNI’S CYBER CRISIS

Western Sydney University has confirmed everything from payroll and bank account details to passport information and tax file numbers was impacted in its most recent cyber security breach.

The university continues to face serious questions about its online security after further breaches of its systems.

In the latest cases, fraudulent emails were sent to some members of the university community using stolen data.

“I want to again apologise for the impact this is having, and give you my assurance that we are doing everything we can to rectify this issue and support our community,”

Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO said.

Robot by the river

‘Woody’ spotted in Penrith

EMILY CHATE

Ahumanoid robot was seen strolling along the Nepean River last week, delighting children and adults alike.

Woody was created by Sydney-based AI and Robotics start-up Bellbots and is a world-first humanoid robot application built for everyday assistance across shopping and retail.

The robot is customer focused and provides practical assistance like bag carrying and store finding while also delivering in-store advertising and promotions to retailers.

The man behind the magic of Bellbots is Penrith local Andrew Bell, who designed Woody to make robotics more accessible.

“We saw a gap between cutting edge robotics research and practical, real-world applications,” Bell said.

“The driving force has been to bridge that gap bringing futuristic technology out of laboratories and into public

Tregear Public School Canteen Licence

spaces, schools, and workplaces in ways that genuinely benefit people.”

Woody stands at five feet tall and has a human-like form with a robotic shell manufactured by Unitree. He is powered by a custom AI software stack that integrates motion control, vision recognition, and conversational intelligence.

The system uses reinforcement learning and advanced motion planning to mimic human-like movement while adapting to different environments; Woody can even do the ‘Macarena’! Bell designed Woody to make daily tasks easier for people.

“Inspiration came from a clear vision that technology should make everyday life simpler, more efficient, and more engaging for both individuals and communities,” Bell said.

Keep an eye out for Woody at your local shopping centre!

Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen for the school year commencing on 27 January 2026 for a term of 3 years with an option to renew for 2 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 345.

General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to:

Olivia Tredoux Principal 02 96286301 tregear-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders must be sent electronically and noted in the subject line “Commercial in Confidence - School Canteen Tender” ad sent to:

Olivia Tredoux - Principal tregear-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders close at 3pm on Friday 7 November 2025

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

Woody, the humanoid robot, in Penrith last week.

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Turn challenges into opportunities

Many small businesses launch with energy and ambition, but the statistics remain sobering: a significant number will struggle to survive beyond their first few years. And while passion and hard work is vital, they are rarely enough on their own.

Increasingly, business owners are turning to expert consultants for the kind of strategic guidance and financial discipline that can mean the difference between “making it or breaking it”.

One firm stepping into that role is Snappy Business Consulting, which has just relocated to new premises at 11/354 High Street, Penrith.

Snappy Business Consulting is led by two experienced finance professionals whose skills complement each other.

Francis Van Antwerpen, with more than 15 years in accounting and finance management, is known for his precision in areas such as payroll, compliance and cash flow forecasting, particularly within the hospitality sector.

Daniel Hislop, a Chartered Accountant with a background in tax, financial planning and law, brings over a decade of public practice experience across

industries from construction to healthcare, specialising in tax compliance, reporting and business process improvement.

Together, they provide the depth and versatility that underpin the firm’s reputation for guiding businesses through complex

financial and operational challenges.

“Snappy Business Consulting works closely with clients to design

practical solutions that not only address immediate concerns, but also set the stage for long-term growth,” Mr Van Antwerpen said.

“We offer services that are tailored and adaptable, ensuring that businesses from retail, professional services, manufacturing and hospitality sectors receive the support they need to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities.

“Moving to our new High Street premises brings us closer to the heartbeat of the region we serve and enhances our ability to deliver hands-on support while strengthening connections with local business networks.”

Since its establishment, Snappy BC has built a strong reputation for helping business owners turn challenges into opportunities. The consultancy offers a wide range of services from bookkeeping and payroll services to annual tax returns, along with strategic business advisory and consulting to provide assistance for optimised growth, financial restructuring and process improvement.

To find out how Snappy Business Consulting can help with your business needs, visit snappybc. com.au or call 0410 681 663.

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Sign of things to come

History made! First 737 jet lands safely at Western Sydney International Airport EMILY

Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) undertook a multiagency emergency exercise this week as part of the airport’s ongoing program to prepare for opening in the second half of 2026.

The exercise kicked off on Tuesday, October 28 and concluded yesterday, Wednesday, October 29, during which WSI tested a full-scale aerodrome emergency response to a simulated aircraft incident.

The program began when a NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) 737 aircraft operated by Coulson Aviation landed on the WSI runway, this is the first time a 737 jet has landed at the new airport.

“The RFS is proud to play its part in ensuring western Sydney’s new international airport is safe and resilient,” RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said.

“The participation of our 737 Large Air Tanker is not only a first for the airport, but also a demonstration of the important role the RFS plays in protecting communities across our state.

“Exercises like [these] are a valua-

ble opportunity for local emergency services to work alongside one another and test our ability to respond to a large-scale incident in a complex environment.

“This milestone shows how seriously we take community safety, whether it’s fighting bush fires or supporting major, multi-agency emergencies.”

The exercise tested the airport’s preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities in accordance with the WSI Aerodrome Emergency Plan (AEP) and ensures the airport meets CASA Certification processes required for the airport’s opening.

WSI operational staff were joined by approximately 300 volunteers and emergency services partners

from the NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, RFS and NSW Ambulance, as well as federal agencies including Airservices Australia, Australian Federal Police, and Australian Border Force.

The simulation tested the roles and protocols of frontline agencies, including immediate response, incident notification, forward

command management, ambulance triage, disaster victim identification and registration, passenger welfare, crisis management and recovery arrangements.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the exercise is another critical component of the airport’s ongoing trial program as the exciting countdown to opening in late 2026 continues.

“This will be the most significant simulation we’ve carried out to date and it’s a positive opportunity for our airport staff and all first responders to test our collective resources, protocols and general preparedness in a safe, controlled environment,” Hickey said.

“It also marks a significant milestone for Sydney’s new 24-hour airport, with our first 737 jet aircraft landing at WSI’s technologically enabled airfield – a big moment that included welcoming many onlookers and media on site to capture the historic arrival.

“I thank the state and federal agencies for their close collaboration and the hundreds of community partners and volunteers supporting the exercise, all of whom will help ensure WSI continues to put safety at the centre of everything we do.”

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The RFS 737 landing at WSI on Tuesday morning.

“Best dad in the world”:

Former Panther Cliff Cartwright passes away after a brave battle with illness;

NATHAN TAYLOR

Cliff Cartwright – Panther #144 and the club’s inaugural first grade ball boy – has been described as stoic, a man’s man and the best dad in the world.

Cliff passed away last Saturday night after a long battle with illness, aged 67.

Cliff was the first-born son of Merv Cartwright, credited as the driving force behind Penrith’s admission into first grade rugby league in 1967.

Cliff, who was residing in Port Macquarie with his partner Pam in recent years, played one first grade game for the Panthers back in 1977.

Speaking with the Weekender, Cliff’s 26-year-old daughter Bronte Cartwright said the best way to describe her late father was “stoic”.

“That’s what he lived by, stoicism,” she said.

“He fought a long, hard battle over the past four or five years. He first got sick in 2022, and he didn’t tell anybody, nobody knew, and I think that’s why his passing hit the community so hard. That was the kind of man he was – he was very private, very strong.”

Bronte said her father, otherwise known as her “twin flame”, loved to cook and he would often be glued to the SBS Food channel, learning the latest in the culinary world from top chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Adam Liaw and Jamie Oliver.

“Plus, dinner was always on the table at 7pm on the dot – not one minute earlier or one minute later. Dad lived in the kitchen and he lived in the garden too, and I think he did that to stay close to Nan and Pop.”

Following her parents’ split when she was in school, Bronte chose to live with her father. It was the best decision she made as it allowed her to see a different side to Cliff, and together they grew closer and closer.

until he met my step mum,” Bronte said.

“My parents split when I was young and I opted to stay with Dad and it was just me and him for years

“We were everything together. We lived in share houses together. We lived in caravan parks together. At times we didn’t have a TV, but I always had food in my mouth, and I never saw the struggle.”

“He was the cook of the house. He got that from my Nan, Merv’s wife Margaret,” she said.

“From Kindergarten to Year 11, every morning he’d wake up before me and make me chocolate chip pancakes and a mint hot chocolate. Then he’d deliver them to my room.

Even up until the day he died, Bronte said her father forever remained her protector and he was always putting others before himself.

“On Saturday, the day of his passing, one of the last things he was worried about was the fact that tree loppers were coming on Monday

Cliff Cartwright.

Cliff Cartwright (white shirt) was Penrith’s inaugural ball boy in 1967.

Bronte and Cliff Cartwright.

Cartwright remembered

daughter Bronte pays tribute to her humble father

and we needed to make sure that the trees were cut at the right height,” she said.

“He was a giver. He was a lover. He was a fighter. He was a coach. He was a boss. He was a real estate agent. He was a leader. He was everything. He was so much more than just a dad.”

Since Cliff’s passing, Bronte has been learning plenty about her dad, including how loved he was in the local community. She said the overwhelming number of tributes has been truly special to read.

“I had no idea how loved he was! He was so humble to the point where I thought he just had a couple of mates,” Bronte said.

“It blows my mind to know that he shaped the community in a way. He was Pop’s first-born and took on a lot of leadership in that family. He took it in his stride, and I didn’t realise up until today that he was just so much more than my dad.”

Unsurprisingly, Cliff loved rugby league, and he was a huge part of the footy community.

From his early days with the Panthers as a ball boy to becoming a player and then a coach, Cliff was one of those ‘old school’, tough type of characters the club was built on.

“The

“Dad

The Royce Manor

Memory Support Care

“loved

“The football was always on TV,” Bronte revealed.

only reason he stopped playing was because he suffered a knee injury.

said to me just the other day that the men in that ‘70s era shaped

the Panthers of today, and I’m just so grateful it was them. They were hard asses, but they did a great job!”

The Cartwright family will be holding a Celebration of Life for Cliff at 2pm next Saturday, November 8 at St Marys Leagues Club.

Cliff Cartwright and partner Pam.

Cliff Cartwright with his best mate, his dog Jimmy Barnes.

Cliff Cartwright playing for Penrith.

Shane’s battle laid bare

EMILY CHATE

Awestern Sydney head and neck cancer survivor is empowering others to know the signs and connect with people who are going through the same experience.

For Shane West, his head and neck cancer story began as an earache, not overly concerning, but he went to the GP anyway.

“Doctors and Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialists looked at all the normal things they look at. I had an MRI, but it was so early in the process that they said no it’s not cancer, we will treat you for something else,” he said.

Over the next 18 months, Shane and his wife Michelle visited numerous doctors and ENTs before one discovered the cause of the problem.

“We then went through a different ENT, and it was that ENT that put me in for another MRI… straightaway it came back that I had a four-centimetre tumour that was Stage 4, and I was going to die in three months,” Shane reflected.

“I fainted [when I heard that].

“The doctor wasn’t talking to me; he was talking to Michelle about palliative care and to make sure I had my affairs in order. He wouldn’t look at me.”

The diagnosis came just before Christmas 2020 and like the 5,300 people who get newly diagnosed each year, over the following weeks Shane underwent numerous procedures where doctors were trying to see how far the cancer had spread.

“What was fortunate for me was the cancer,

even though it was Stage 4, had grown into the base of my tongue,” Shane said.

“Normally by Stage 2 it goes to your lymph nodes and once it is in the lymph nodes, it’s through your body and that’s when it becomes a real problem.

“For me, it hadn’t and that’s what confused the first ENT.”

The cancer was found to be Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which, out of its 21 strains, only two are cancerous, it was one of these strains Shane had contracted at some point in his life.

Shane had a feeding tube placed just before his treatment began in January during the COVID lockdown.

Over the next three months, Shane went through 35 rounds of radiation as well as three rounds of chemotherapy.

At the same time as Shane’s diagnosis, their family home caught fire.

“The insurance company were really good, they knew I was going through cancer treatment and were super empathetic,” Shane said.

“I had just been told that I had Stage 4 cancer, and the Building Manager knew I was pretty emotionally messed up… Michelle told him, and he said, ‘I’ve just had tongue cancer’.

“He was three years out from it. He had the same journey. So, then he rang me up every week through treatment.”

To hear from someone who had survived head and neck cancer was a pivotal moment for Shane given 1,100 Australians lose their lives to it each year.

“Certainly, being able to connect with people that have been on the same journey

with you, that was amazing because reference points were all people who had passed away,” Shane said.

“To actually find some people that had survived and thrived through the process gave me hope and sometimes having hope is the only thing you can rely on.”

One of the hardest moments throughout the process for Shane was telling his children.

He told his adult son Caleb early in the process but struggled to tell his twin daughters, Amelia and Jemima, who at the time were just eight-years-old.

“That was one of the hardest things. We kept putting off telling them” Shane’s wife Michelle said.

“He said, ‘I don’t want them to lose their childhood innocence’.

“There was an absolute burden that everything was hunky dory in their life until this point and then suddenly now it’s not. And that was hard for us to feel like we were taking that away, but it was out of our control, we had to tell them.”

Throughout the treatment process Shane relied a lot on his family and friends as his support network.

“It’s your friends and family that lean in. Some friends don’t know how to deal with cancer, and I get that, but it is so much better for the person involved if you’re leaning in and supporting them,” Shane said.

Now in remission, Shane has had his speech impaired, struggles to eat and has a severely damaged jaw from the radiation, but each check up he attends his survival rate increases. He now sits at a 70 per cent survival

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

STEM program inspires next generation Local high school students are taking exciting steps towards careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics after participating in the 2025 STEM Community Partnerships Program.

For five years, Council has partnered with Australia’s national science agency CSIRO to deliver this program, which builds skills of the future to benefit our City and its people.

The program connects students with industry experts who encourage them to think innovatively, providing hands-on experience inside and out of the classroom. Students research real-world challenges faced by their community. We had 130 students from six schools in the Penrith Local Government Area this year, exploring challenges around transport, heat stress and biodiversity.

With Penrith at the heart of one of the country’s fastest-growing regions, there has never been a better time for bright young minds to look at these topics.

In previous years, students visited the undeveloped site of the Western Sydney International Airport – today, the terminal and runways are tangible proof of this unprecedented growth and opportunity.

The Sydney Metro rail interchange is also taking shape at St Marys. Students

researched how to improve connectivity in and beyond this City, which Council continues to advocate for.

Heat stress is another important issue for the community and our organisation, so it’s great to see the next generation consider how they can help to cool Penrith and improve the health and well-being of residents and visitors.

This year’s cohort presented their results at the program’s showcase event this week. I’m always so impressed by the innovation and creativity of these bright minds.

Congratulations to the students and dedicated teachers from Colyton High School, Glenmore Park High School, Jamison High School, Chifley College Dunheved Campus, Kingswood High School and Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School. I also thank CSIRO and the mentors from the various organisations.

As well as working towards solutions for real world issues, your involvement in this program encourages and inspires job diversity in this City, a key priority of our Council.

Learn more at www.csiro.au/generationstem.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Shane West, a head and neck cancer survivor. Photo: Warwick Chate.

Legend’s final resting place restored

John Lees (1771-1836) is a significant character in Penrith’s history, and now his final resting place in Castlereagh reflects his importance to the region and pays tribute to his contributions.

The mission to restore the grave of John and Mary Lees has been spearheaded by the team at Castlereagh Conference Centre.

“John Lees built the first Wesleyan Methodist Church on this site in 1817, and he donated the land to the church when he died in 1836,” explained Centre Manager Michael McKertich.

“When he died, this cemetery didn’t exist, so he was buried at the Anglican Church Cemetery in Cranebrook until his body was exhumed in 1921 and buried on the

land he donated.”

Over the years, the gravesite began sinking and the concrete above cracked. That’s why McKertich and his team sprang into action.

“We started this at the end of last year and sent a big mail-out to all the descendants of John Lees and the contacts that we have at Castlereagh for donations to the project,” McKertich recounted.

“We started work in the middle of this year and managed to get it all finished by August – just in time for our open day.”

The project cost around $6,000.

“We’ve made the grave level with the ground, removed the concrete edging, and reset the grave. We didn’t touch the headstones due to heritage reasons, but we made sure they wouldn’t deteriorate anymore,” McKertich explained.

“We also put a new concrete edging around the grave, a new concrete base, and we put river stones on the grave to match the riverbed where we’re located at Castlereagh.

“We also paved an area so visitors can sit on a bench to look at the grave and read the sign that explains John Lees’ life. There is also a display of bricks that were taken from the house he lived in which were donated to us by Nepean Archaeology.”

Visitors can see the renewed gravesite at Castlereagh Conference Centre’s community open day this Saturday, November 1.

“They can take in the heritage, look at the church built in 1847, and look through the old Sunday School Hall, which is now a dining room,” McKertich detailed.

“We can also show people what

we do nowadays. We look after weddings, events and functions.

“We’ll have our meeting room set up for a day conference, we’ll have an outdoor wedding set up, and we’ll have activities for kids too. We will also have food trucks and the Cranebrook Rural Fire Brigade here.”

There will also be self-guided tour hand-outs, so visitors can find all the unique heritage locations around the site, including the bell tower and the historic sun dial.

Visit 297-305 Old Castlereagh Road from 10am to 2pm on November 1.

ALLY HALL

John Lee’s grave. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Δ Matcha mania: Macca’s has unleashed the McCafe Matcha Range, with three new products on the menu. There’s the Strawberry Matcha Iced Latte, Matcha Iced Latte and Matcha Latte (hot), available in all stores now. “The new McCafé Matcha Range is our answer to that call. It’s delicious and it’s the kind of pick-me-up that turns your everyday into something extraordinary. Matcha fans – this is the little treat you deserve,” said McDonald’s Australia Marketing Director, Amanda Nakad.

Δ Site gets new life: The old Hog’s Breath Cafe location at St Marys is being turned into a food truck mecca. Follow Food Trucks Australia on Facebook for all the details around opening times and which food trucks are in town.

Δ Delicious eats: Durk’s Cafe + Eatery has opened at the Erskine Park Shopping Centre, with a great menu and vibrant atmosphere.

Δ Walker’s back: Anthony Walker, best known for his days as the owner-manager of Bank of Queensland’s Penrith branch, has opened Walker Finance on High Street in Penrith. He’s encouraging anyone in the market for a loan to get in contact. His new office is located in Elizabeth Arcade, or visit http://walkerfinance.au.

for the final time on Wednesday, November 19.

Δ Greek night at Riverside: Riverside Bar & Dining is holding one of its famous Greek Nights on Friday, November 14 from 7.30pm. It’s $89 per person and there’s great food and live music. Book at the restaurant now!

Δ Iconic markets replaced: Penrith’s Wednesday markets will be held for the final time next month. After 50 years, the markets at the Penrith Showground will be replaced by a new Thursday market. The new markets will be run by the team behind other successful markets in Sydney, including Blacktown markets. It will launch on November 27. The traditional Wednesday market will happen

Δ Summer arrives at Grill’d: Burger joint Grill’d is turning up the heat this summer with the launch of its new Healthy Fried Chicken range, introducing a revamped chicken patty that’s crunchier, juicier, and cooked in extra virgin olive oil. The new line-up includes two standout burgers – the Hula Hen and the Pow Pow. Tuck into one today at Grill’d, located at Westfield Penrith.

End of an era: Jeweller calls time

One of Penrith Plaza’s longest running businesses, Penrith Jewellery Workshop, is calling time after more than 40 years.

The local family-owned jewellery store – located on the Upper Level of Westfield Penrith – will wind down its operations over the coming months after beginning its life in the original Penrith Plaza way back in 1983.

Established, and still owned by Shaun Nolan, Penrith Jewellery Workshop is unlike any other jewellery store.

Not only do they stock a large range of quality jewellery and are the exclusive stockist for Thomas Sabo in the Penrith area, but they also manufacture and repair on the premises – anything from fixing a chain, to designing and creating a ring that may become a family heirloom.

Penrith Jewellery Workshop’s presence on the local jewellery scene will be sorely missed when Shaun and his wife Glennys close their famous ‘clock door’ early next year.

“Shaun is going to retire after being here for 42 years,” Glennys said about the decision to close the award-winning business.

“Shaun has owned and operated

the store since the original Penrith Plaza, and we’ve had the store at its current location since 1992.

“It’s one of the very few original stores remaining in the Plaza.”

The decision to retire and close Penrith Jewellery Workshop after more than four decades wasn’t an easy one for Shaun and Glennys. After a challenging period due to

personal health matters, the call was made to move on to the next chapter.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision… there’s been lots of tears and so forth

around it,” Glennys said.

“But, for us as a couple, Shaun’s been here for 42 years and I’ve been in the store for 27 years, so it’s time to leave and do something for ourselves.”

To mark the store’s upcoming closure and pending retirement of its owner, Penrith Jewellery Workshop will hold a massive 60 per cent off storewide sale – beginning today (Thursday, October 30).

Shaun and Glennys Nolan would like to thank the thousands of customers they’ve made memories with over the past 40 years in business in Penrith.

“We don’t make jewellery here, we make memories,” Glennys said.

“We make connections with our customers and many of them have become our friends.

“It has been an incredible journey with all of our clients – they are the ones who will be hardest to say goodbye to.”

Don’t miss Penrith Jewellery Workshop’s 60 per cent storewide closing down sale.

With Christmas around the corner, there’s no better time to pop in and visit!

For more information, call 4732 3688 or visit penrithjewelleryworkshop.com.au.

THE POWER OF CONNECTION BUSINESS MATTERS

In a world obsessed with clicks, likes and algorithms, it’s easy to forget that real business still happens between real people. Behind every thriving business is a web of connections. The conversations, coffees and collaborations that spark new ideas and open unexpected doors.

We see it every week at the Penrith Valley Chamber. A casual chat at a networking night turns into a new supplier deal. A local café owner finds their next accountant over breakfast. A small manufacturer meets their future business partner at an educational event. These stories aren’t rare, they’re the rule. Still, walking into a room full of strangers can be daunting. The truth is,

almost everyone feels the same way. The trick is to swap nerves for curiosity. Ask questions, actively listen, and show genuine interest in someone else’s story. You’ll be amazed at how quickly conversations open up when you stop worrying about saying the right thing and just focus on connecting.

And here’s the secret: no one minds if you join a conversation. In fact, most people find it refreshing, even a relief.

Networking isn’t about selling; it’s about showing up, building trust and

remembering that “Don’t do business alone” isn’t just a slogan – it’s a growth strategy. We’re lucky in Penrith to have a treasure trove of networking groups, each with its own flavour and community. Go explore. Find the one that fits you best. Because every handshake, chat or coffee has the potential to change the trajectory of your business. And around here, business is community.

Roof

Gutter

Heritage Now, on behalf of Homes NSW, is undertaking an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment for proposed residential development at 20 Nelson Road, Box Hill in The Hills Shire LGA. Contact details for the proponent are: Ziwar Sattouf, 12 Darcy Street, 6 Parramatta Square). Aboriginal people who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the signi cance of Aboriginal objects and places in the area are invited to register an interest in the community consultation process. The purpose of the consultation is to assist in the preparation of an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit application, and to assist the Secretary of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water in their consideration and determination of the

In accordance with the Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents 2010, please send your registration to Jenna Weston (Heritage Now, 51 Reuss St, Leichhardt NSW 2040, hello@heritagenow.com.au) by 13 November 2025. Your details will be provided to Heritage NSW and the relevant Local Aboriginal Land Council, unless you specify that you do not want your details released.

western

of Queen Street between Charles Hackett Drive and Belar Street.

(Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

JERSEY BOYS MAGIC RETURNS

Frankie Valli’s Irish/Australian counterpart and star of smash hit jukebox musical ‘Jersey Boys’ spoke to the Weekender ahead of the group’s reunion shows in western Sydney.

Bobby Fox detailed how he fought for the role of Frankie Valli, the impact of the show on Australian audiences, and how it feels to be reunited with his castmates for ‘Jersey Forever’.

“I went to New York for a research holiday to see a bunch of shows,” Fox reminisced to the days before ‘Jersey Boys’.

“When I saw ‘Jersey Boys’, I was blown away, and then it announced that it was going to be auditioning. So, I auditioned for it, and it was

a bit of a disaster – my initial audition was terrible.

“Progressively, my auditions got better, and I landed the role of Frankie after about six months.”

‘Jersey Boys’ is the story of a band called Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, which formed in the 1960s.

“It documented the band members’ lives and careers from the perspectives of the four men in the group: Tommy DeVito, Bob Gaudio, Nick Massi and Frankie Valli,” Fox described.

“‘Jersey Boys’ followed their careers, trials and tribulations and showed the story behind the music. It went on to become one of the biggest shows to have ever graced planet Earth.”

Now, ‘Jersey Forever’ – the concert version of the show – will be coming to Riverside Theatres and Coliseum Theatre 15 years after it premiered in Sydney.

“It’s a reunion of the original four boys – the original four stars of Jersey Boys that Sydney and Melbourne fell in love with,” Fox explained, talking about bandmates Stephen Mahy, Scott Johnson and Glaston Toft.

“I had never experienced anything like it; the way audiences gravitated towards the show and went crazy about us. And now it’s lingered on after 15 years, and people still talk about us as being synonymous with the show.”

Reliving those days through ‘Jersey Forever’ has been a step back in time for the performer.

“We’re dusting off the cobwebs and taking the best of what we had before and adding all

of our development and evolution as performers and humans,” Fox exclaimed.

“It feels so right, so grounded, and so natural. When we perform together, it’s so electric and exciting. I love it; it feels so special.”

Audiences can feel that electricity too.

“They want to dance straight away!” Fox said.

“One of the things I like to do at the start of the show is let them know that they’re here to have a good time and that it’s OK to shout out and sing along.

“At the end, they’re always up on their feet clapping and waving along with us. The magic of ‘Jersey Boys’ has never really died.”

Relive or finally experience the iconic sound of Jersey Boys with ‘Jersey Forever’ at Riverside Theatres on November 7 or Coliseum Theatre on November 29.

ALLY HALL

ON THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL HARBOUR

THINGS TO DO

Printing the House

Printing the House is a fun and experimental workshop focusing on monotype printmaking techniques. Participants will create exciting and contemporary prints using textures found in their own backyards, homes, and the local landscape. It will run on November 2 from 9.30am. Tickets are available online at https://www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

Penrith CBD Corporation

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Glenmore Park Probus Club

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

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the fourth Monday of the

Arsenic and Old Lace

Glenbrook Players’ upcoming play ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ will open on November 7. The production delivers vintage comedy at its best – complete with eccentric relatives, madcap misunderstandings, and bodies in the cellar. Join the darkly hilarious romp through 1940s Brooklyn suburbia by purchasing a ticket online at https://www.glenbrookcinema.com.au/players.

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

Probus Club of Nepean

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

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 9am-

Halloween at Panthers

This Halloween, The Backyard at Panthers is getting dark, dirty and downright devilish. Sip sinful cocktails, dance with demons, and party under the moonlight at Penrith’s biggest adults-only Halloween bash. We’re talking $5 spirits from 8pm to midnight, freaky-good beats, and a Best Dressed Comp. Entry to the event on October 31 is free.

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

Penrith NASHOS

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

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Nepean Food Services

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

Free food shop

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

JP service

Located in Western Weekender office

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

Nepean Naval Museum

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

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.

Penrith Carer Support Group First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.

WAYNE’S W RLD

with Wayne Tunks

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

This week is Halloween and Billboard released their list of the Biggest Halloween Songs of All Time, and to the surprise of many, Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ only landed at number 22. And while they would argue that they were just reporting on US chart data, it doesn’t seem the right way to measure the best Halloween tunes.

‘Thriller’ would have to be top three on anyone’s list, competing with ‘Monster Mash’ and ‘Ghostbusters’ for that top spot. Ironically, those two songs were in first and second places on the Billboard list. So while ‘Thriller’ may have only reached four in the US, culturally it had more impact than most.

But this isn’t any ‘80s music column, so let’s celebrate the ‘80s songs that made the Billboard list, besides ‘Thriller’ at 22 and ‘Ghostbusters’ coming in second. Funnily enough, Bobby Brown came in fifth with his soundtrack single from the second ‘Ghostbusters’ film, ‘On Our Own’. Michael did feature on number six on backing vocals for Rockwell’s ‘Somebody’s Watching Me’, a definite must for a Halloween playlist. The ‘80s managed to have two more songs in the top 10, Michael’s sister Janet was at eight with ‘Black Cat’ and Australia’s own INXS in at 10 with ‘Devil Inside’. The Charlie Daniels Band’s 1980 hit, ‘The Devil Went Down to

Georgia’, was in at 17, and was the last ‘80s tune before ‘Thriller’.

There are many more I would add to a list, which I have, we are doing a Halloween themed 9O’Clock Mixtape on Friday.

Added to our list is the Chantoozies debut tune, ‘Witch Queen (of New Orleans)’, as well as The Hooters with ‘All You Zombies’ and AC/DC’s dead set classic, ‘Hell’s Bells’. Plus, I can’t get past the camp perfection of Toto Coelo’s ‘Dracula’s Tango’, their other hit, ‘I Eat Cannibals’ could have made the list as well.

While many argue whether we should celebrate Halloween or not, I think the least we can do, is appreciate the spooky brilliance of a good Halloween playlist.

COUNTRY CORNER

Bamford’s new banger

Gord Bamford is one of Canada’s most awarded country music artists with a total of 26 CCMA Awards.

The Australian-born country sensation has now released his new single, ‘As Long As There’s A Bar’; from his forthcoming 2026 album.

“‘As Long As There’s A Bar’ is a shout out to every dive bar, dancehall and neon-lit watering hole that’s brought people together for a good time. Whether you’re blowing off steam, making memories, or just looking for a cold one and a familiar face, this one’s for you. Turn it up, raise a glass, and let the good times roll,” he said.

The song is out now on all the usual streaming services.

Farewell Kix Country

Big news in Aussie country radio. After 22 years the KIX Country brand will be no more, with the creation of a national country radio network under the iHeartCountry Australia brand.

“Don’t worry we still play all your favourite artists, your favourite songs, your favourite features, and some great new shows. And I’m still here just at a different

time, midday every day. New name, same great country,” said iHeartCountry Radio Content Director Justin Thomson.

Speaking with Countrytown, Thomson said “We have joined our two country radio networks to bring Australia’s country music audience under one unified national brand, and to leverage the strength of the global iHeartCountry brand while keeping the heritage, warmth, and community feel that KIX is known for. This change will now allow us to deliver a consistent sound and message across metro and regional markets.”

Moroney down under It was great to see rising country star Megan Moroney getting into the Australian spirit during her time down under.

Moroney performed across the country to adoring audiences, and also managed to get up close and personal with some local wildlife. While in Australia she also released her new single, ‘Beautiful Things’.

ROMANTIC EPICS

At the movies...

REVIEW

Black Phone 2

Given the serial killer at the centre of 2021’s ‘The Black Phone’ is killed at the end (sorry for the spoiler), a sequel never felt on the agenda.

And yet here we are.

By the time we get to the end of ‘Black Phone 2’, your mind probably isn’t changed over whether a sequel was needed or not.

It wasn’t.

That’s not to say it’s not a fine movie, with a decent storyline and some great jump scares along the way. But it certainly doesn’t feel like this film added all that much to the original, despite following on just a few years after the events of the first movie’s story.

‘Black Phone 2’ is set in 1982 and Finney (Mason Thames) is still clearly traumatised from his experiences with ‘The Grabber’.

But it is his sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) who takes centre stage this time around. When she starts having visions that feature mutilated children under frozen lakes, we know where this is heading.

The film is primarily set at a Christian camp where Finney and Gwen’s mother attended as a Counsellor, and several boys went missing.

What quickly unravels is the dark secrets the camp is hiding, as another inevitable battle with The

Grabber, albeit in a different form, emerges.

There’s some genuinely good moments here. When Finney and Gwen arrive at the camp it has a true nightmarish, scary feeling

about it – grabbing you almost like a video game and bringing you into the story.

And the final scenes on the ice are dynamite too.

But overall there’s just not

enough here to justify extending the over-arching story.

And if you didn’t see the first one, ‘Black Phone 2’ doesn’t really stack up as a stand-alone viewing. – Troy Dodds

www.hoyts.com.au

TV Guide: October 31 – November 6

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Knowing The Score (PG) 11:00 The Following Events Are Based On Lies (M l) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Mystery RoadOrigin (M l) 1:50 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 2:50 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 3:20 Grand Designs (PG) 4:10 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:55 Antiques Roadshow 5:55 QI (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:30 Professor T (M v) 9:20 Hard Quiz (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: “The Bourne Ultimatum” (M v) (’07) Stars: Albert Finney 10:50 Motorway Patrol (PG) 11:20 GetOn Extra 11:50 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “The Clue To Love” (PG) (’21) Stars: Rachel Bles 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Asia (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Meg” (M) (’18) Stars: Jason Statham 10:40 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival (PG) 11:40 Law & Order: Organized Crime (MA15+) 9:00 Lingo (PG) 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 Taskmaster Australia (PG) 11:30 Judge Judy

2:00

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFLW: Round 12: Hawthorn v North Melbourne Tasmania *Live* 9:15 Movie: “Terminator: Dark Fate” (M) (’19)

3:30 First Dates UK (M) 4:40 Movie: “Smurfs: The Lost Village” (G) (’17) Stars: Demi Lovato 6:20 Movie: “Dolittle” (PG) (’20) Stars: Robert Downey Jr. 8:30 Movie: “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” (MA15+) (’08) Stars: Jason Segel

Richard Osman’s House Of Games 4:10 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 6:20 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Down Under 7:05 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 7:35 QI (PG)

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 Seasons Of The Wild 7:30 Movie: “Happy Halloween, Scooby-Doo!” (PG) (’20)

5:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 6:00 Audra’s Eat, Roam, Relish 6:30 Nigella Feasts 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Two Greedy Italians 8:40 The Streets Hong Kong 9:40 Gourmet Farmer 10:10 Everyday Gourmet

9:00 The Living Room (PG) 10:00 JAG (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 Numb3rs (M v) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 2:00 The Neighborhood (PG) 2:30 Becker (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Ghost” (M l,v) (’90)

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 v) 2:15 All Creatures Great And Small (PG) 3:00

Of The Proms (2025) 4:45 The

(M l) 7:00 ABC

5:30 Landline 5:55

6:25 I Was Actually

7:30 Beyond

5:00 AFLW: Round 12: Sydney v Essendon *Live* 7:00 Storage Wars (PG)

3:30 Peter Rabbit 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:10 The Wiggles 6:00 Octonauts - Above And Beyond 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Do Not Watch This Show 7:30 Hard Quiz Kids 8:00 Kids BBQ Championship

2:15 The Bee Whisperer (PG) 3:05 Bamay 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 Women Who Rock (M l) 2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 The Golden Girls (PG) 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Addams Family” (PG) (’19) Stars: Oscar Isaac 12:00 Poirot (PG) 1:00

(PG) 8:30 Return To Paradise (M v) 9:30 Mystery Road - Origin (M l) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ Eagle Farm *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: “A Few Good Men” (M l) (’92) Stars: Tom Cruise 11:00 Movie: “The Kingdom” (MA15+) (’07) Stars: Jamie Foxx 1:00 In Plain Sight (M v) 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 11:30 Horse Racing: Howden Victoria Derby Day *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Speed” (PG) (’94) Stars: Keanu Reeves 9:55 Movie: “The Mod Squad” (M) (’99) Stars: Michael Cole 11:50 Next Stop 12:20 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything (M s) 1:20 Rugby League: Ashes Tour: England v Kangaroos *Live* 10:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:00 Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation (PG) 12:00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia 1:00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass 1:30 The Yes Experiment 2:00 Charming China 2:30 Buy To Build 3:00 Australia By DesignInnovations 3:30 Well Traveller 4:00 Cook With Luke 4:30 My Market Kitchen 5:00 10 News 6:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 7:30 Selling Houses Australia 8:30 Ambulance UK (M l) 5:00

2:30 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 4:00 Extreme Animal Transport (PG) 4:30 Make You Laugh Out Loud (PG) 5:20 Movie: “Blue Crush” (PG) (’02) Stars: Kate Bosworth 7:30 Movie: “The Help” (M) (’11) Stars: Emma Stone

3:30 The First Inventors (PG) 4:30 Homesteads (In English/ Maori) 5:00 Pacific Island Food Revolution (PG) 6:00 Amplify (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Se7en” (MA15+) (’95)

4:30 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 3: Newcastle Jets v Sydney FC *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight 7:35 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 3: Macarthur FC v Western Sydney Wanderers *Live* 10:00 NCIS (M)

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)

2:00 ABC News 2:25 Not Stupid 3:00 ABC News 3:30 If You’re Listening 3:50 ABC News 4:15 Planet America 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Compass

3:45 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 4:15 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 6:15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Down Under 7:05 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:35 QI (PG) 5:30 Lorraine Pascale: Be A Better Cook 6:00 Sachie’s Kitchen 6:30 Hairy Bikers Go Local 7:35 Remarkable Places To Eat 8:35 Heston Blumenthal: Life With Bipolar 9:35 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover 10:30 Getting Grilled With Curtis Stone

1:00 Motorsport: Hi-Tec Oils Super Series: Round 6 *Live* 5:10 France 24 International News 5:40 PBS News Hour 6:40 Mysteries From Above (PG) 7:35 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits 9:30 The Idea Of Australia

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 Miriam & Alan: Lost In Scotland And Beyond... (PG) 3:15 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:10 The Role Of A Lifetime (PG) 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 1:00 AFLW: Round 12: Collingwood v Brisbane *Live* 3:00 The Voice (PG) 4:10 Motorbike Cops (PG) 4:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Voice (PG) 9:00 AC/DC - The World’s Greatest Rock Band (M) 10:00 24 Hours In Police Custody (M l,v) 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 Cross Court 11:30 Drive - Driving Value 12:00 SA Variety Bash *Replay* (PG) 1:00 Rugby League: Women’s Pacific Championships: Kiwi Ferns v Jillaroos *Live* 3:30 Rugby League: Men’s Pacific Championships: Kiwis v Tonga XIII *Live* 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The

2:30 Building Alaska (PG) 3:30 Find My Country House Canada 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 House Hunters International 5:30 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 6:30 Our Dream Farm With Matt Baker 7:30 Farmhouse Fixer

3:00 Seinfeld (PG) 3:30 Explore 3:40 Ski Rescue Down Under (PG) 4:40 Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge 5:40 Movie: “The Pink Panther 2” (PG) (’09) Stars: Steve Martin 7:30 Movie: “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” (PG) (’12) 4:00 Rugby League: Men’s Pacific Championships: PNG Kumuls v Fiji Bati *Live* 6:00 Rugby League: Post-Match 6:15 Horse Racing: Melbourne Cup Barrier Draw *Live* 6:30 TBA 7:30 Movie: “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”

(Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 2:40 Stockman’s Strategy (PG) 3:40 The Point 4:40 DanceRites (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:30 Great Australian Road Trips (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Contact” (PG) (’09) Stars: Grant Judson 6:00 Home Shopping 8:00 Camper Deals 9:00 Reel Action 9:30 Navigating The World 10:30 Judge Judy (PG) 11:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 I Fish 4:30 NBL: Round 7: Adelaide 36ers v Illawarra Hawks *Live* 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (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

A

(M) (In

2:45 Jeopardy! 4:50 Worldwatch 5:50 History’s Greatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 Kate Winslet - A Quest For Authenticity (PG)

3:30 Project Impossible (PG) 4:30 Young Sheldon (PG) 5:00 Dinner With The Parents (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” (PG) (’19) Stars: Chris Pratt 7:30 Movie: “National Lampoon’s European Vacation” (PG) (’85)

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

11:00 Rugby League: Ashes Tour: England v Kangaroos *Replay* 1:00 Getaway (PG) 1:30 Movie: “I Live In Grosvenor Square” (G) (’45) Stars: Anna Neagle 3:55 Movie: “The Cruel Sea” (PG) (’53) Stars: Jack Hawkins 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG)

Get Macca’s® delivered.

5:30 Peter Rabbit 6:05 PJ Masks 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Rocket Club 7:35 Ninjago Dragons Rising 8:00 Operation Ouch! 2:30 Interest Rate Decision *Live* 3:00 ABC News Afternoons

(PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Becker (M)

5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG)

5:30 Peter Rabbit 5:55 Octonauts - Above And Beyond 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Rocket Club 7:35 Ninjago Dragons Rising 3:10 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien

Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward 5:30 APTN National News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:30 Chatham Islanders (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 Numb3rs (M v) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 5:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG)

(PG) 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 QI (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 9:00 Long Lost Family (PG) 6:00

5:30 Peter Rabbit 5:55

4:00 Island Of Bryan 5:00 Chateau DIY 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Good Bones

(PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Love Island Australia (M l,s) 3:30 Movie: “Carry On Cleo” (PG) (’64) Stars: Kenneth Williams 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 TBA 8:40 Midsomer Murders

Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:00 10 News Plus 7:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:30 The Celebrity Traitors UK (PG) 8:55 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 3:00

Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG)

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Seven has revealed the return of ‘SAS: Australia’ next year at its 2026 Upfronts. ‘SAS: Australia v England’ will pit seven Aussie celebrities against seven UK celebrities in one of the most unforgiving environments in the world: the Moroccan desert. The Australian SAS contestants are Mack Horton, Emily Seebohm, Brad Hodge, Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Ryan Moloney, Jessika Power and Axle Whitehead. Also coming to Seven next year is new Shane Jacobson hosted quiz series ‘Caught in the Middle’, ‘My Reno Rules’ with Dr Chris Brown, Tina Arena special ‘Unravel Me’, and the return of ‘First Dates Australia’.

Despite it winning a prestigious Chatter on the Box award last year, ‘The Office Australia’ has been axed after just one season. The series, based on the UK original, first streamed on Prime Video before enjoying a run on 10 recently. Shame!

Hit Stan series ‘Bump’ is getting the Christmas treatment, with ‘Bump: A Christmas Film’ premiering on Sunday, November 30. The entire beloved ChalmersDavis family is back for one last holiday

adventure that promises to be more hilarious than harmonious. The one-off special will officially wrap up the series.

Exciting news for fans of ‘Prison Break’, with Hulu ordering a reboot of the series, including a new cast and characters. In the new series, a soldier-turned-corrections officer takes a job at one of the deadliest prisons in America to prove just how far she’ll go for someone she loves. ‘Prison Break’ originally ran for four seasons between 2005 and 2009 before returning for a fifth season in 2017. Expect it to air on Disney+ next year.

A second season of ‘Hijack’, starring and executive produced by Idris Elba, will premiere on Apple TV on Wednesday, January 14. The eight-part series sees a Berlin underground train and its commuters taken hostage, while authorities scramble to save hundreds of lives. Sam Nelson (Elba) is at the heart of the crisis on board, where one wrong decision could spell disaster. The first season,

set on a plane to London, was phenomenal, so I’m very much looking forward to this one!

The third season of comedy series ‘Shrinking’, starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, will premiere on Apple TV on Wednesday, January 28. ‘Shrinking’ follows a grieving therapist (Segel) who starts to break the rules and tell his clients exactly what he thinks. Ignoring his training and ethics, he finds himself making huge, tumultuous changes to people’s lives … including his own.

If you’re looking where to watch the Melbourne Cup next Tuesday afternoon, Nine will be broadcasting it this year, live from Flemington. Host Eddie McGuire will bring all the latest updates and excitement from the course in Nine’s expert studio, while in the mounting yard James Bracey is joined by leading international horse racing expert Francesca Cumani. Former NRL superstar turned Origin coach Billy Slater is also back on deck for his insightful on-track interviews with the winning jockeys post-race.

N OVEMBER 30 B UMP: A CHRISTMAS FILM, STAN

HOUSE HUNTING Shopping Let’s

CSR Gyprock, Australia’s leading plasterboard manufacturer, has introduced the Canto profile to its comprehensive cornice range. While minimalistic in form, the 90mm design is distinctive, featuring a stepped ridge that flows into a subtle curve, transforming the ceiling line into a striking feature.

Renee McGinty, General Manager Marketing, CSR, said this year they are seeing greater focus on ceilings and overhead features, with

cornices becoming a key design element thanks to the balance of functional and visual benefits they bring.

“With modern interiors increasingly more open plan, greater emphasis is being placed on how each surface contributes to the overall look and feel of a space. Capable of influencing the mood, flow and character of a room as much as the walls and floor, today’s ceilings are often referred to as the ‘fifth wall’ of interior design,” she said.

“Cornices help frame walls, and can transform a room simply by the cornice profile a homeowner chooses. Canto, for example, is an elegant profile perfectly suited to Hamptons, Contemporary and Mid-Century interiors and brings balance to a room when paired with complementary features such as skirting, architraves or statement lighting.”

From living rooms to bedrooms, from subtle details to bold statement features, cornices are one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to refresh a space, instantly changing the mood and providing an elevated detail that turns ordinary spaces into homes with personality and polish, without the need for major structural work.

“TODAY’S CEILINGS ARE OFTEN REFERRED TO AS THE ‘FIFTH WALL’”

To help visualise how a cornice will suit a room, Gyprock’s interactive online Cornice Visualiser tool, allows homeowners to experiment with cornice designs in real-time across a variety of room styles with a choice of wall colour, ceiling height, lighting effects and accessories.

With the launch of Canto, Gyprock’s Inspiration range now offers seven different cornice profiles that complement emerging Australian interior style trends.

Gyprock cornices are certified Australian Made, and offer a 25-Year warranty. For more information on CSR Gyprock, visit www. gyprock.com.au

CONTACT

AGENT FOR PRICE

Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park

CONTACT:

Oran Park Sales Office

Trevor Homes • 9043 7500

OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK

What is so great about this property?

Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.

Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its

foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day.

With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.

Who does this property suit?

Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes.

Tell us about the suburb this property is in?

Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.

Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers.

Visit today!

BUY • SELL • LEASE • MANAGE

With deep roots in Sydney’s real estate, Charlene Camilleri heads Nala Homes with integrity, transparency, and a client- rst philosophy. Offering full property services — buying, selling, leasing, and management — Charlene blends market insight with customised care to make every client’s property journey smooth and successful.

Why work with Charlene?

• End-to-end real estate solutions: buy, sell, lease, manage

• Proactive property management to minimise risk and maximise returns

• Local Sydney market expertise

• Comprehensive leasing services: tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance, compliance

• Strategic selling plans including pricing, marketing & negotiation

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 lifestyle 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

ground- oor gem combining modern design with lifestyle convenience. Ideally positioned within the highly sought-after Thornton Estate, this contemporary ers the perfect balance of comfort, style, and sustainability. Whether you’re a rst home buyer, downsizer, or savvy investor, this residence provides an effortless low-maintenance lifestyle in one of most vibrant and walkable communities.

It’s rare to come across a more attractive rst home opportunity that is equally appealing as an investment than this sophisticated townhouse. Perfect for First home buyers or Astute Investors seeking easy maintenance living in one of Kingswood’s most soughtafter area.

Welcome to this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, multi-level townhouse located in a prime area, offering a blend of modern convenience, stylish design, and spacious living. Perfect for growing families or professionals looking for extra space, this home features a thoughtful layout across multiple levels to ensure privacy and comfort for every member of the household.

Gizzelle was an incredible support through the whole selling experience. Nothing was ever a problem for her and she made the experience much easier than expected. Highly recommend Gizzelle to give you the best results, with her guidance and knowledge. Her communication was excellent and always very professional. She really cares about her clients. Thank you Gizzelle again for a smooth experience. – Joanne

ORTHOTICS ARE NOTHING LIKE THEY USED TO BE The Experts

Mention the word orthotic and you’ll often see a familiar reaction: a polite smile or a raised eyebrow from someone who tried them years ago and found them stiff, uncomfortable, and not much help. But orthotics today are nothing like they used to be.

In the past, they were often generic inserts made to roughly fit into your shoes, with little attention to how your feet actually moved or felt. These days, orthotics have become highly personalised medical devices that can make a real difference to comfort, mobility and pain relief.

Thanks to advances in materials and technology, podiatrists can now create custom orthotics using 3D scanners that map every contour, pressure point and asymmetry of your feet. This level of detail means your orthotics are designed specifically for you, supporting your movement while helping to ease pain or prevent further injury.

Modern orthotics are also much more comfortable. Using materials like Poron, carbon fibre and EVA, podiatrists can finetune each pair for the right balance of cushioning, support, and flexibility. Whether you spend long hours on your feet, enjoy running,

adjusted to suit your lifestyle.

Another big change is how they’re managed over time. Orthotics aren’t a “set and forget” solution anymore. If they start to feel uncomfortable or your needs change, your podiatrist

From bunions and plantar fasciitis to ankle pain or pressure wounds, modern orthotic therapy now supports a wide range of conditions. What used to be a rigid insert is now a dynamic, responsive tool designed not just to

The Experts

WHY VETS RECOMMEND DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

When your pet is unwell or showing subtle changes in behaviour, your veterinarian’s goal is always the same – to find out what’s going on as quickly, accurately and safely as possible. Diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, X-rays, and ultrasound are essential tools that allow vets to look beneath the surface and understand what’s happening inside your pet’s body.

While these tests can sometimes seem costly, they play a vital role in guiding treatment decisions, ruling out serious conditions, and ensuring your pet receives the best care. After all, animals can’t tell us where it hurts – diagnostics give them a voice.

Bloodwork provides a snapshot of your pet’s internal health. It helps assess organ function, hydration levels, blood cell counts and detect signs of infection or inflammation. For example, changes in liver or kidney values might reveal early disease before symptoms even

appear. Regular blood tests are particularly important for senior pets or those on long-term medication, as they help monitor for subtle changes that may require treatment adjustments.

X-rays (radiographs) allow veterinarians to see inside your pet’s body without surgery. They’re invaluable for detecting bone fractures, arthritis, tumours, foreign objects, bladder stones, and changes in the heart or lungs. For instance, a dog with a persistent cough might have normal bloodwork, but an X-ray could reveal an enlarged heart or a mass pressing on the airways. In many cases, radiographs provide the missing puzzle piece needed to reach a diagnosis.

Ultrasound takes imaging one step further by showing soft tissues in motion. It’s commonly used to examine organs like the liver, kidneys, bladder and heart in real time. This makes it useful for identifying internal masses, fluid build-up, and even guiding fine-needle samples for

laboratory testing. Ultrasound is gentle, non-invasive, and often performed without the need for anaesthetic.

In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a referral to a Specialist Hospital for more advanced diagnostic imaging such as a CT scan or MRI. These highly detailed scans can reveal internal structures with exceptional clarity, allowing for precise assessment of complex conditions.

Veterinarians don’t recommend these tests lightly. They are carefully chosen based on your pet’s symptoms, physical examination

findings, and medical history. Sometimes, multiple tests are used together to provide a clearer picture – much like pieces of a jigsaw coming together to reveal the whole image. Ultimately, diagnostics not only help identify illness but also prevent unnecessary treatments or guesswork. They enable your vet to tailor care specifically to your pet’s needs, improving the likelihood of recovery and long-term well-being. Remember, when it comes to your pet’s health, knowing what’s really going on inside can make all the difference.

71.

76.

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uniquely.

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.

Word Search

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

Theme: NUTS

PECAN

PINE NUTS

PISTACHIO RAW ROASTED

SEED

SMOKED SNACK

WHOLE

Last week’s solution

Ghostface is the villain in which horror movie franchise?

What actor played Laurie Strode in the 1978 movie Halloween?

According to Rotten Tomatoes what is the scariest horror movie ever?

6. What was the first horror movie to win Best Picture at the Oscars?

7. What kind of mask does Jason Vorhees wear? 8. What do Carrie’s classmates dump on her at prom in Carrie?

What is the name of the summer camp where Friday the 13th takes place? 5. What is the name of the killer in the Saw franchise?

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].

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The Super Full Moon and fiery Mars/ Uranus opposition could stir up your restless and reckless side, as you unleash your Inner Rebel. But try to do so in appropriate ways that don’t upset loved ones, antagonise authority figures, or endanger your personal safety! A professional or domestic change could also test your mettle. Be inspired by birthday great, singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, “Life is a series of changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The Super Full Moon (in your sign) emphasises your practical side, so do your best to handle current situations in a suitably sensible and pragmatic fashion. When it comes to a romance, work partnership or joint venture, avoid getting stuck in a rut. The planets push you to find creative ways to express yourself personally and within relationships. But is someone exaggerating or trying to manipulate you? Keep your Bulldust Detector switched onto high.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Get cracking Cats – especially at home and work! It’s one of the most proactive and productive weeks of the year as the Sun, Super Full Moon, Venus, Mars and Uranus fire up your career and domestic zones. Relationships with colleagues and relatives should improve, as long as you’re not being a right royal bossy boots. Catching up with delayed chores and overdue DIY projects in your Lion’s den is particularly favoured, so strike while the iron is hot.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

What a dramatic week! There’s a Super Full Moon in your relationship and joint ventures zone and then Venus (transiting through your sign) squares Pluto (your ruling planet). So start flexing your adaptability muscles and expect some thrills and spills along the way. Your motto for the moment is from Scorpio singer-songwriter-musician Neil Young (who turns 80 next week), “As you go through life, you’ve got to see the valleys as well as the peaks.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

You’re in the mood to book an adventurous holiday or plan a new course of study. But – on the weekend – hidden tensions could bubble to the surface with a family member, neighbour or work colleague. Be extra diplomatic and try not to take criticism personally. Social media is also a potential minefield, as Uranus and the Super Full Moon stir up your communication zone. So be careful you don’t send the wrong message to the wrong person at the wrong time!

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

With the help of the Super Full Moon, use the power of your imagination and intuition to get to the bottom of a problem that’s been bothering you. If you listen to the wisdom of your inner voice (and pay attention to the symbolism in your dreams) it will point you in the right direction. Be proactive about working constructively with a colleague or communicating creatively with a friend. But don’t get carried away and promise more than you can deliver.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

When it comes to romance, do you have ridiculously high expectations? Have you placed your partner (or imagined partner) on a towering pedestal? With Neptune and Saturn both transiting through your relationship zone, stop expecting the perfect soul mate and instead, be prepared to love a real flesh and bones person … faults and all. As singer, songwriter Joni Mitchell sings, “I’ve looked at love from both sides now, from up and down . . .”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

You’ll be at your chatty and charming best, as Mercury and Mars both transit through your sign. So it’s a wonderful week to create, collaborate and communicate, in your friendly Sagittarian way. As writer (and birthday great) Albert Camus wrote, “Charm is the way of getting the answer yes, without having asked any clear question.” But avoid making impulsive, half-baked relationship decisions. Slow down, take your time and think things through.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Finances, joint ventures, secret deals and trust issues are on the table! The Super Full Moon (on Wednesday night) highlights hiccups involving self-esteem and/or financial management. Strive to be less impulsive and extravagant, and more cautious with cash and credit. And Uranus also opposes Mars, so don’t spoil a potentially positive week by being physically reckless or making inappropriate comments. Slow down and consult with others along the way.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The silvery, ever-changeable Moon is your power planet, and many sensitive Crabs feel emotionally volatile and vulnerable around the time of the Full Moon. This week’s Super Full Moon is in earthy, stable Taurus, so you’ll probably feel more grounded (and less moody) than usual. But you still need to be extra careful and consistent in the way you communicate with other people – especially children, teenagers, work colleagues and close friends.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Stylish Librans appreciate quality and luxury, but don’t overdo it or you’ll end up being the most beautiful bankrupt on the block! This week the Sun, Super Full Moon, Venus and Mars stimulate your money and self-esteem zones. So it’s time to get your finances in order, work out a new budget, and plan to live in a more sustainable way. On the weekend, the Venus/Pluto square could stir up obsessive thoughts or jealous feelings about a lover or friend.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Attached Caps – with Jupiter transiting through your relationship zone, maintain your independence within the partnership. Singles – love and travel are linked. The planets also highlight professional and volunteer work plus long-term career planning. Success will be more satisfying if you are patient and disciplined, as you follow your chosen path. Be inspired by actress (and birthday great) Sally Field, “Your journey is unique; don’t compare it to others.”

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Toyota C-HR has its moments but ultimately needs more

Although not the first to launch a ‘space buggy’ small SUV, Toyota has taken them to heart, along with plenty of buyers, and recently updated the C-HR.

I love the look, I am a sucker for flared guards and tough, angular body lines, and the C-HR has them in spades.

There are a few curves, especially the bonnet and roofline, but the ‘design by angle grinder’ look returns with a truncated tail section and sharply defined tailgate.

The doors don’t escape the sharp-edged styling, with concave pressing and an upswept horizontal body line.

At the front, the daytime running lights (DRLs) and LED headlights are seamlessly integrated into the front guards, bonnet and grille section, including a reverse sloped solid panel above the radiator air intake.

Our test car was the upper-specification

“WITH MORE ANGLES THAN HOLLYWOOD, THE NEW C-HR IS FUN AND FUNKY”

Koba variant, getting gloss black highlights front and rear, breaking up the bodyline even more, as well as 19” alloy wheels.

The overall effect is aggressive, without being brutal, providing a solid street presence with a definite ‘look at me’ visual, that avoids being over the top.

Inside, the C-HR is a little more restrained, not boring, perhaps more accessible than the exterior suggests.

Despite being a smaller car, and me being a bigger driver, it wasn’t cramped or crowded, I wasn’t rubbing shoulders with the navigator, even when flexing my elbows through corners.

The power-adjustable driver’s seat was supportive, a little narrow, but not uncomfortable. Yes, I would like a longer base, but it worked for the car.

The Koba gets cloth and ‘suede-like’ fabric seat trims, they coped with spring weather, cool mornings and warmer days, without feeling sticky or clammy, and the heated fronts were a nice touch.

I liked the chunky-rimmed steering wheel, it had plenty of adjustment with good clearance over my thighs, the thumb grips added an extra point of leverage for exuberant driving.

Like most modern cars, the crossbars house buttons for audio, cruise and instrument cluster functions, after a little practice they became second nature.

A quick nod to Toyota, historically, cabin ergonomics were not a strength, no more, OK, they still aren’t German, but they are practical and easy to use.

The centre stack features a stand-alone 12.3” touchscreen display, great for the maps, audio and vehicle functions, easily reached by the co-driver.

The dual-zone climate control is a row of buttons underneath, a tad fiddly when on the move, drivers, set and forget before you go, or leave it to the off-sider.

The centre console is narrow, due to available space, there are two cup holders, a stubby gear selector and the electronic park brake switch, ahead of a wallet-sized storage binnacle with padded lid.

While the cabin is roomier than the exterior suggests, the trade-off is the luggage space, especially when the sharply-angled tailgate is added to the picture.

While the floor space is reasonable, compressed by the rear wheel arches, the vertical space suffers badly as the hatch closes, significantly reducing the volume, it still held a week’s groceries, but a young family adding a pram would require championship-level Tetris abilities.

Our test car was the 2WD hybrid, fitted with a Continuously Variable Transmission, perhaps not the best choice for this car.

Regulars will know I love CVT for their long distance efficiency and super-smoothness, but short distance trips around town are

‘SPORTS’ mode on the transmission, locking in pre-set ratios, is a no-brainer for making the most of the 103kW peak power.

While there is some boost from the regenerative braking system, the majority of the effort is still from the driver pushing hard on the brake pedal.

ABS brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution round out the package, providing plenty of confidence when it comes to stopping in a hurry.

I love the Heads-Up Display, not losing focus on the road while staying informed about what the car is doing is not just fun, but improves road safety.

I am not so in love with the driver assist technologies, especially when the car intervenes too early, including emergency steering assist, part of the lane keep assist family.

I like the idea of extra steering effort in an emergency, but not when the car brakes before

definitely their downfall.

Unfortunately most C-HR owners will fall into this group and find the otherwise potentially sparkling performance blunted as a result.

This is doubly a shame, because Toyota has done plenty under the skin to make the C-HR a more sporty drive, with improved ride qualities, despite the low profile 19” tyres. These work tremendously to boost cornering ability by reducing sidewall flex, but the extra rigidity is reflected in a stiffer ride, meaning more road shocks can be transmitted to the cabin.

The improved handling, coupled with the electric power steering makes the C-HR fun to power through corners, but engaging

a corner and tries to choose my line for me. Similarly, the curve speed reduction part of the active cruise control, which automatically brakes the car if it thinks you are entering a corner too quickly, many times I had to accelerate to not get hit from behind by other drivers who weren’t expecting me to suddenly slow down.

The updated C-HR is a definite improvement over the previous version, although I think it deserves another 20 or 30 kilowatts to give it the performance to match its looks.

It is a fun and funky car, and there should be more of that, while there is a need for every day transportation, we should also be allowed to enjoy our time behind the wheel, and the C-HR can be that car.

The Toyota C-HR has a definite ‘look at me’ visual.

The interior is packed with features.

Mazda confirms return of the 6 F Truck goes Platinum for Oz

After retiring the long-serving 6 hatchback early this year, Mazda confirmed a new 6 will be coming to Australia, but as a full electric model.

Vinesh Bhindi, Managing Director of Mazda Australia, said the returning 6 will offer a ‘classic’ five door hatchback, but with a 190kW BEV motor and 78KwH Lithium Iron Phosphate battery. Taking advantage of the compact packaging of the single engine and drivect drive, the 6e, as the car will

be known, will see the return of rear-wheel-drive to the line-up.

While Mazda will release full details of the range and trim levels closer to launch, Bhindi said the new model is expected to arrive in mid-2026.

DIRTY DIESEL CAR OR TRUCK ENGINE?

Ford’s biggest ute, the F-150, has been updated for 2026, with a new range-topping Platinum version added to the mix.

Mechanically, the F-150 retains the 298kW/678Nm 3.5-litre Ecoboost petrol V6 and 10-speed auto, buyers will have the choice of Short or Long Wheel Base (SWB/ LWB) across three trim levels, the XLT, Lariat and Platinum.

The base XLT gets 20” alloy wheels, improved lighting and a 12V power outlet for the cargo area, as well as LED reflector headlamps and foglights, a 360-degree camera and black and chrome combination sidesteps.

Inside, the XLT upgrade is primarily the addition of 12” screens for the central stack and driver’s instrument panel.

Stepping up to the Lariat, the biggest change is the Pro Access swing door tailgate, allowing the tailgate to be

lowered or swung to the driver’s side, although there are also ‘Chrome-like’ alloys and a chrome sidestep on the SWB.

The top-shelf Platinum additions include gloss black alloys, body colour mirrors and door handles, powered, heated and cooled, front seats with massage function, and auto power operated sidesteps.

The F-150 is rated to tow

4.5-tonnes, with a Gross Combination Mass of up to 7,410kg for the top shelf Platinum, with payloads of up to 878kg, depending on the version.

RMA Automotive in Melbourne will remanufacture all F-150s for Ford, including the right hand drive conversion, with vehicles expected to arrive in car dealerships around the country early next year.

The Ford F-150.

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

CLEARY LOVE GOES GLOBAL

! Cleary in hot demand: He may be a long way from home but Nathan Cleary is still feeling the love of footy fans. There were plenty of signs directed at Cleary in the crowd at Wembley for the Australia v England Test last weekend, while the Panthers co-captain was in hot demand after the game when it came to autographs and photos.

! Music City showdown: Make no mistake about it, the NRL is serious about the global round concept for the opening weekend of the 2027 season. Whether or not they pull it off is another thing, but Peter V’landys is adamant this is a winner. While there’s many locations being talked about, one city that has popped up a couple of times is Nashville. The country music capital has boomed in terms of popularity and grown in recent years and a brand new stadium is being built in the city. Interestingly a lot of Penrith fans added Nashville to their US trip when heading to Las Vegas earlier this year.

! Glen’s jersey hunt: Panthers stalwart Glen Liddiard is on the hunt for a missing jersey. It’s an England jumper from 1970 and was given to Liddiard back in 1985 by former English captain Frank Myler. The jersey has gone missing in recent years and Liddiard is desperately trying to track it down. If anyone knows anything, get in touch with the club.

! Yeo’s tour blow: Terrible news for Kangaroos and Penrith captain Isaah Yeo who only got to play eight minutes of the opening Ashes test and will miss this weekend’s second test after suffering a Category 1 concussion. Yeo is on track to return for the third Test.

! Spotted: Panthers winger Thomas Jenkins doing a spot of shopping at Westfield Penrith on the weekend.

! Kenny takes time out: Mitch Kenny is enjoying an off-season without representative commitments, taking off to Borneo for his

break. The self-confessed nature lover and worldly soul looks to be having the time of his life.

Western Sydney fall to Auckland FC in thriller

Story continued from » p. 56

“I’d say that the first five or six months in the role, I would counsel with my partner, discuss what happened at training and whether I went about it the right way.”

Thomas said despite the challenges of being the captain of an A-League club that has lots of expectations on it, he loves every minute and hopes to be doing the gig for a long time.

“It’s been enjoyable,” he admitted.

“I don’t think you become a leader,

you’re always sort of leading… it’s like a continuous thing to learn and to keep evolving. But overall, it’s been really enjoyable.”

Western Sydney suffered their first loss of the new season last weekend, a narrow 1-0 defeat to last season’s A-League Premiers Auckland City.

The opening stages of the match saw the Wanderers enjoy the majority of possession, but neither side could fashion a clear-cut chance in the first 10 minutes.

However, the deadlock was broken in the 21st minute when Jesse

Randall found the back of the net for Auckland, giving the home side an early advantage.

The second half saw Western Sydney come out with renewed intent.

As the game wore on, the Wanderers pushed for an equaliser but were unable to capitalise on several chances.

The Wanderers will hit the road against this weekend when they travel down the highway to Campbelltown Sports Stadium to battle Macarthur FC. Kick-off is at 7.35pm.

! Jumper reveal coming soon: The Panthers will reveal their 2026 jerseys in the coming weeks. We’re not sure how much of a change we’re in for, but with OAK branding no longer featuring on the jersey, we can definitely expect some small tweaks at least. The club has been undertaking plenty of online sales, along with a Warehouse Sale, as they work to clear stock ahead of the 2026 range being released.

! New Flegg coach: Scott Thompson has been appointed as Penrith’s new Jersey Flegg coach for the 2026 season.

! Chairman honoured: Congratulations to Penrith Referees Association Chairman, Gary Haines, who was acknowledged for his long service to the Association last weekend at the NSWRLRA Life Members Reunion Luncheon. Haines has been an integral part of the Association for many years, making outstanding contributions across a range of roles.

! Spill the tea: Have you spotted a player out and about in the off-season? Got some news to share? I don’t keep secrets but I do protect my sources. Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

Nathan Cleary with fans. Photo: NRL Photos.

Wanderers captain Lawrence Thomas loves his job.

SPORTS SHORTS

ATHLETICS: Cranebrook Little Athletics is jumping into the new season with a $3700 grant from Coles to support aspiring athletes and community. Cranebrook Little Athletics will use their grant to buy a new electronic starting gun and scissor mat, which Centre President Damian Griggs said will help volunteers to deliver a fun, safe and quality program to young athletes. “Most of our funding comes directly from registrations and a small number of sponsors supporting us, that’s why grants like these are so important to help ease the financial pressure our club face each week,” he said. “Our current scissor jump mats are nearly 10-years-old and in a poor condition which limits our ability to deliver this event in a safe and structured way. Replacing these mats will not only restore safety and compliance but also allow us to run our program as planned and on time, thus improving the experience for all involved. Additionally, the new starting gun will greatly enhance the efficiency of our track program. By covering these key equipment needs with the Coles grant, we can redirect the limited sponsorship funds we receive toward other vital areas such as athlete development, volunteer support and ongoing facility maintenance.”

CRICKET: Penrith Cricket Club have been hammered by Eastern Suburbs in Round 4 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. Eastern Suburbs were on fire, declaring on 8/416. Penrith bowler Chris de Kretser took 3/73. When Penrith hit the crease on day two, they fought hard but ultimately fell well short of victory, dismissed for 283. Bottom order batsman James Lennox top scored for Penrith with 68 not out. Penrith will aim to bounce back when they go up against Manly Warringah this Saturday at Manly Oval.

CRICKET: Penrith continue to struggle in the T20 competition, this time losing to St George-Sutherland in Round 4 of the Women’s Kingsgrove Sports T20 Cup. Playing at Harold Fraser Reserve last Sunday, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. St George-Sutherland were strong with the bat, posting 3/143 after 20 overs. Bethany Lane took two wickets for Penrith. When the Lady Cats hit the crease, they battled hard but were unable to get the job done, finishing on 5/112. Penrith will tackle Manly Warringah and Sydney University from 10am this Sunday at Howell Oval.

BASKETBALL: Congratulations to the St Marys Public School girls basketball team who

were crowned PSSA State Champions. St Marys qualified for last week’s State Championships after placing first in their region. Held at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, St Marys

went up against the best public school teams from around the state. St Marys were on fire throughout the tournament, progressing to the Grand Final against Tamworth South Public School with relative ease. The decider was close, with St Marys behind on the scoreboard at half-time. However, St Marys’ strong defence and pressure on the ball in the second half saw them eventually pull away to ultimately prevail 55-45. “We are so proud of the girls, a blend of players some experienced and some picking up the game for the first time this year. They’ve been flexible and resilient, rising to the challenge,” the school posted on Facebook.

AFLW: The GWS Giants have suffered their fifth consecutive defeat, losing to Carlton 81-35 last Sunday at Ikon Park. Not even a lightning delay midway through the third quarter could help the Giants in this one, with GWS struggling for any sort of momentum throughout the contest. The Giants will return home to Henson Park in Newtown this Saturday afternoon to play Port Adelaide.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers will kick off the A-League Women’s season against Perth with a Halloween-themed extravaganza tomorrow night, October 31, at Wanderers Football Park. The Wanderers

are encouraging everyone to come dressed in their best Halloween outfits. Spooky, funny, creative or outrageous, prizes will be awarded for the best dressed! The excitement kicks off at 6.30pm with a trick-or-treat adventure around the venue. Wanderers activations and staff will be ready to hand out lollies and treats to all participants. Tickets are on sale now through Humanitix.

MOTOR RACING: Local V8 Supercars driver Jayden Ojeda has confirmed he will be joining the Supercars on a full-time basis next year. Ojeda will link up with the PremiAir Racing Team in 2026. “Massive thank you to everyone in my corner every step of the way over my journey,” Ojeda said.

GRIDIRON: The Nepean Ducks had a mixed weekend of results in Round 7 of the Gridiron NSW competition. In Tackle Football, Nepean’s Men’s team flogged the Sydney Uni Lions 32-7, while Nepean’s Colts team went down to the Wollongong Mustangs 46-28. In Flag Football, Nepean’s Women’s team lost to the Northern Sydney Rebels 32-0 and lost to the UTS Gators 58-6, while Nepean’s U15s team went down to the Wollongong Mustangs 39-24 but bounced back to defeat Katangas Blue 28-6.

BODY BUILDING: Congratulations to local body builder Stan Turek, who placed second at the NABBA Mr Universe competition held in Newcastle, England, on October 19. Turek is a popular member of Body Beyond Health Club in High Street, Penrith.

Stan Turek finished runners-up.

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.

Athletes from Cranebrook Little Athletics celebrate important grant.

St Marys are basketball champions!

SPORT

Cleary mobbed in London – see page 54

LEADER OF THE PACK

Popular Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas has opened up about his role as the club’s captain and who he turns to for advice after games.

The 32-year-old Marconi and Blacktown City junior is currently in his second year as Wanderers skipper, having guided the western Sydney club back to the Finals last season.

Speaking with the Weekender earlier this month while lazing on a lounge at CommBank Stadium, Thomas said he took a lot out of his first year wearing the captain’s armband.

“There was probably a few layers to it,” Thomas admitted.

“On the field, I feel like it

helped my game because I thrive under pressure and responsibility. One of the things that drew me to goalkeeping is that it’s a pretty unique position and you need a certain mind frame to do it.

“Outside of that, in terms of everyday stuff and implementing standards, you’re always learning how to go about things as well as the various ways to have an impact on different people.”

Lawrence said he often self-reflects and admits that he sometimes questions whether he was too hard or too soft when interacting with his teammates.

“There’s a lot of self-reflection of the stuff that you’ve said – should I have said it that way? Was I too easy? Was I too hard?,” Thomas said.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Lawrence Thomas.